tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-189567672024-03-18T12:06:09.849-04:00Bible Gems monthly archiveScriptural meditations on God's precious Word (7640 posted here) sent daily for over 20 years from njhiebert@gmail.com - see also biblegems1.blogspot.com or else biblejewels.blogspot.com 2016-2024 and going forward; this will be updated periodicallysoundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.comBlogger255125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-10617243610127128062024-03-01T06:20:00.033-05:002024-03-18T10:22:29.871-04:00Gems from March 2024<p> <strong style="color: #202020; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="color: #1207f3;">"That we may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, </span></strong><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="color: #1207f3;">in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye </span></strong><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="color: #1207f3;">shine as lights in the world." (Philippians 2:15)</span></strong></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Even in earthly things men look for guidance to the stars. A man lost on the prairie may find his way home by the stars. In navigation, sailors look to the stars, especially to the North Star. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In an important survey, we always run our base-lines by the stars, particularly the North Star: and so keep them from becoming crooked and distorted. Thus these 'luminaries”, these ‘heavenly lights' in this dark world, need to remember that those who walk in darkness have their eyes upon them: but just as other stars point to the North Star, let us ever have our eye fixed on 'The Bright and Morning Star, and then our path will not be crooked, and we shall not lead astray those watching us. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It was a star which led the wise men to the Saviour at Bethlehem when He was a Babe. How good if we too can be like that! </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">(G.Christopher Willis</span></strong><span style="font-size: 14px;"> — </span><strong>Sacrifices of Joy)</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9501</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 28</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1125f2;">"The fiery darts of the wicked." (Ephesians 6:16)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Be not surprised if doubts and fears assail you. They are to be expected like evil thoughts or disease germs. You cannot avoid being attacked and, if you are sore beset, remember that the Bible, the Word of God'‘ has told you they will come. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It is not wrong to be the target of their onslaughts, but you need not be overcome by them. It means that you are in real conflict and dangerous enough to the devil to bring in his hostility. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">If you wonder why they seem to increase as you go on and grow older, it is because the fight gets hotter as you grow in grace and it never lets up. But greater is He that is in you than all your adversaries. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">You are pressed by many a foe so that you may be all the more helpful to others who are not shadow boxing but are in the thick of the fight." </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">(Vance Havner - All the Days)</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9502</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1d0ef1;">"One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #1d0ef1;">the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #1d0ef1;">of the LORD, and to enquire in His temple." (Psalm 27:4)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">As we come together to worship, what is the focus of our attention? Do we meditate upon the beautiful character and person of our Saviour? He never sinned and never had to ask forgiveness for His words or actions. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">His words were full of grace and truth. His life was a life fragrant with love for all. His loving hands healed the sick. His loving lips spoke words of forgiveness to the broken sinner. His agonizing death for sinners proclaimed the amazing love of God.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br />He is a beautiful Saviour! Behold the beauty of the Lord! <em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">(Donald Norbie)</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9503</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #120cf4;">…Esau came from the field, and he was faint: and Esau said to Jacob, feed me, I pray thee… for l am faint... and Jacob said, sell me this day thy birthright. And Esau said, behold, I am at the point to die: and what profit shall this birthright do to me... Jacob gave Esau bread and pottage of lentils; and he did eat and</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #120cf4;">drink... Esau despised his birthright." </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #120cf4;">(Genesis 25:29-34)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Note the conduct of Esau in reference to the birthright, and all which it involved. The natural heart places no value on the things of God. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">To it, God's promise is a vague, valueless, powerless thing, simply because God is not known. Hence it is that present things carry such weight and influence in man's estimation. Anything that man can see. he values, because he is governed by sight and not by faith. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">To him, the present is everything; the future is a mere un-influential thing - a matter of the merest uncertainty. Thus it was with Esau. <strong><span style="color: #120cf4;">"I am at the point to die; and what profit shall this birthright do to me?"</span></strong> What strange reasoning! - the present is slipping from beneath my feet, I will therefore despise and entirely let go the future! - Time is fading from my view, I will therefore abandon all interest in eternity! <strong><span style="color: #120cf4;">"Thus Esau despised his birthright."</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Man has no heart for the things of God. The present is everything to him. Food is better than a title to Canaan. Hence, the very reason why Esau made light of the birthright was the very reason why he ought to have grasped it with the greater intensity. The more clearly I see the vanity of man's present, the more I shall cleave to God's future. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #120cf4;">(C.H. Macintosh - Notes onGenesis)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9504</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">TRUSTING</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">When we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. Romans 5:6</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">Lord, Thou wilt ordain peace for us; for Thou also hast wrought all our works in us. Isaiah 26:12 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">What a long time it takes to come down</span><strong><span style="color: #4d4d4d;"> </span></strong>to the conviction, and still more to the realization of the fact that without Him we can do <em><strong>nothing</strong></em>, <em><strong>(John 15:5)</strong></em> but that He must work <em><strong>all</strong></em> our works in us! This is the work of God, that ye believe in Him whom He hath sent. And no less must it be the work of God that we go on believing, and that we go on trusting.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Then, you who are longing to trust Him with unbroken and unwavering trust, cease the effort and drop the burden, and now entrust your trust to Him! He is just as well able to keep that as any other part of the complex lives which we want Him to take and keep for Himself. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And oh, do not pass on, content with the thought, “Yes, that is good idea; perhaps I should find that a great help!” But, “Now, then, <em><strong>do it</strong></em>.” It is no help to the sailor to see a flash of light across a dark sea, if he does not instantly steer accordingly. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">I am trusting Thee, Lord Jesus, trusting only Thee;</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Trusting Thee for full salvation, great and free.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">I am trusting Thee, Lord Jesus; never let me fall! </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">I am trusting Thee forever, and for all. </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Opened Treasures - Frances Ridley Havergal </span><span style="font-size: 14px;"> </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9505</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0a13f2;">Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man, of Kabzeel, who had done many acts, he slew two lionlike men of Moab: he went down also had gone down and slew a lion in the midst of a pit in time of snow. </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #0a13f2;">2 Samuel 23:20</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>On a snowy day</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Benaiah was one of the men who accompanied David on his flight from King Saul. The Bible calls him a brave man and tells how he fought a lion in a pit on a snowy day. Benaiah performed a difficult task in a difficult place and under difficult circumstances.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">God took note and made a point to record this feat in great detail in His Word. The external conditions under which Benaiah had to fight particularly highlight his courage of faith.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The Lord also knows the circumstances under which we serve Him and commit ourselves to His cause:</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">• He takes note of that Christian who takes the opportunity on a hot summer day to bring people into contact with Jesus Christ.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">• He sees the Christian who sits for hours in a traffic jam because she wants to cheer up a sick sister in the faith by visiting her.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">• He also notices how a believing mother wants to faithfully fulfil the task of caring for her children despite a headache.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">• It does not escape His notice when a servant takes a long drive in the pouring rain to visit a small, lonely group of believers.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In heaven we will realise with amazement that the Lord has taken notice of all these details. It will be a joy for Him to reward the faith that overcame the difficulties with His help. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">The Good Seed.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9506</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">IS YOUR HEART IN IT?</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #220ef2;">Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men. </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #220ef2;">Colossians 3:23</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">Second Chronicles 31:21</span></strong> we read of Hezekiah that in every work that he began he did it with all his heart and prospered. It is not merely much pleasanter to be bright and brisk about everything, but it is actually one of God's commands, written in His own Word. I know this is easier to some than to others. Perhaps it comes natural to you to do everything heartily. But even that is not enough. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">What else? <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">"Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily as to the Lord, and not unto men."</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">He knows whether you are seeking to please Him or whether He is forgotten all the while and you think only of the smiles of others. But perhaps it is hard for you to do</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">things heartily. You like better to take your time, and so you dawdle, and do things in an idle way, especially what you do not much like doing. Is this right? Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily! Is it not just as much disobeying God as breaking any other command? </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Are you not guilty before Him? Very likely you never thought of it in this way, but there the words stand, and neither you nor I can alter them. May the Lord give us strength to obey this word of His. And then the last word of the verse about Hezekiah will be true of us to — we will be "prospered."</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">Jesus, Master! Wilt Thou use…One who owes Thee more than all? </span></strong></em><em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">As Thou wilt! I would not choose,…Only let me hear Thy call.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">Jesus, let me always be… In Thy service glad and free.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Frances Ridley Havergal - Opened Treasures</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9507</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0c0bf5;">"No man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #0c0bf5;">even as the Lord the church." (Ephesians 5:29)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">There is the special entrance of His mind, His careful interest in those that belong to Him. It is a great comfort that we know this to be true in the present state of the Church, when we think of the ruin of all around. Does Christ ever cease to nourish that which belongs to Him? Impossible. Spite of all the ruin, He has the same care for His people. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">We never can pray too much for the Church; but it is another thing to be troubling our minds as if the Lord forgot her, and were not taking adequate care of the saints in their need and sorrow. The Lord has never failed; and what He here tells us to do in our earthly relationships is no more than what He perfectly does towards His Church. He loves the Church; He nourishes and cherishes it, and He does this because </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0c0bf5;">"we are members of His body, of His flesh, and of His bones." (Ephesians 5:30)</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Just as Eve was a part of Adam, so the Church is of Christ. The Lord took out of Adam's side that which He built into his wife. So we stand in this nearness of relationship to Christ</span>. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">(William Kelly - Lectures on Ephesians)</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9508</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0e27f4;">What man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God" (I Cor. 2: II).</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">I remember looking at a busy ant colony on a broiling summer day in Australia. My thoughts ran as follows. The distance between a man and an ant is very great,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">but after all it is but a finite distance. You can weigh the substance of a man and that of an ant, and you can find out how much heavier a man is than an ant. But can an</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">ant understand what is passing through a man's mind? Can an ant understand the achievements of men? We know it cannot. But the distance between God and</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">man is infinitely greater than that between man and ant. God is the Creator. Man is the creature. The distance between them is infinite. No arithmetic is of any use</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">here. Is it possible that the mind of man can understand and comprehend God? He is " the only Potentate, the King of kings, and the Lord of lords; who only hath immortality, dwelling in the light which no man can approach unto; whom no man hath seen, nor can see: to whom be honour and power everlasting.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Amen (I Tim 6: 15, 16).</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">We may well re-echo the words of Zophar, " Canst thou by searching find out God? canst thou find out the Almighty unto perfection? It is as high as heaven;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">what canst thou do? deeper than hell; what canst thou know? The measure thereof is longer than the earth, and broader than the sea " (Job II: 7-9).</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">If I could understand the Bible through and through I should not and could not believe it to be a revelation from God. That there are mysteries insoluble is what my faith feeds upon. As the Christian poet expressed it:</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">“They are darkness to my intellect,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">But sunshine to my heart”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9509</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #071bf5;">King Agrippa… Why should it be thought a thing incredible with you, that God should raise the dead? Acts 26:7,8.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Why did Christ die?</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">He died for sinners. That is the wonderful news which the gospel brings to us, that <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">"when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly" (Rom. 5:6)</span>.</strong> Paul had got hold of the blessed news that the Son of God had become incarnate; had become a man in this world; that He passed through it a blessed, holy, sinless man; and that at length, in grace, He died on the cross for man.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It is quite true, man put Him there, but when there, He died to make atonement for sin. But God raised Him from the dead. Wickedness nailed Him to the tree. Hatred slew Him; love took Him down from the cross, and buried Him; and fear sealed Him in the tomb. Do not forget that! They rolled a great stone to the mouth of the tomb, and set a watch over it. Was not that a strange thing? </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">They put aguard around a dead man. And why? Because, they were afraid He would rise; and thank God, that was what happened. He has been raised. If hatred slew Him, love buried Him, and fear sealed Him in the tomb, what raised Him? Righteousness.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It was His due, and He got it. The glory of the Father raised Him, as we read <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">“Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father " (Rom. 6:4)</span></strong>. God took that sinless man out of death, and put Him into glory. Paul had seen Him there, and been commissioned to proclaim the news. He had been preaching it to the Gentiles, and for that dire offence he is accused of the Jews, and cast into prison. Strange that man should refuse the most blessed tidings that ever fell on mortal ears!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Resurrection is the very backbone of the gospel: it is the evidence </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">- that the work of redemption is accomplished; </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">- that the power of the enemy has been broken; </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">- that death has been annulled; </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">- that sins are wiped away; </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">- that God’s claims in righteousness are met. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Seekers for Light - W.T.P. Wolston M.D </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9510</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #200bf4;">"And he (Mephibosheth) bowed himself, and said, What is thy servant, that thou shoudest look upon such a dead dog as I am? (2 Samuel 9:8)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">When Mephibosheth was five years old, an unfortunate accident caused him to become lame on both feet. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Today we would extend every effort to make such a one have a quality of life as normal as possible. But Mephibosheth's estimation of himself was <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">"a dead dog"</span></strong> as he stood before the king. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Are we any different as we stand before the King of kings? We come dead in trespasses and sins <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">(Ephesians 2)</span></strong> and the Lord gives us life. But more! David made Mephibosheth sit at his table and enjoy the bounty of the king. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Our Lord makes the same offer. May we accept His invitation today. (<em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Charlie Tempest)</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9511</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #150ff7;">"Consider Him that endured such contradiction of sinners against Himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds." (Hebrews 12:3)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">I once heard a marathoner tell how there comes a point in a race when the runner <em><strong>"hits the wall,"</strong></em> meaning that his body cannot go on, and every muscle is crying out to give up. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">He said that at that point it is the mind that will determine if the race will continue. So it is spiritually. If our minds have not been disciplined and directed by the Word of God on an ongoing basis, when we <em><strong>"hit the wall”</strong></em> in our spiritual life, we will fail. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">May we determine to fill our minds with His Word, and so to discipline our thought life in such a way that we will have victory in the crises of life. (Wm. Burnett)</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9512</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0c2bf6;">"Thy word have I hid in my heart, that I might not sin against Thee." </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #0c2bf6;">(Psalm 119:11)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">The word of God should not only be a check on our thoughts, but the source of them, which is a far deeper thing</span>. We see it in Christ, the only perfect one. He only could say, <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">"By the word of Thy lips I have kept me from the path of the destroyer." (Psalm 17:4) "Thy word have I hid in my heart that I might not sin against Thee."</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">There is preserving power in the word, to keep the feet from sliding, which those only know who receive the truth in the love of it. Merely having the word hid in the memory and mind will not do. There must be the action of the truth on the heart and conscience, separating from all defilement, otherwise its preserving power cannot be experienced.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">There is nothing more dangerous than to use the Word when it has not touched my</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">conscience. I put myself into Satan's hands if I go beyond what I have from God, handling the Word apart from the guidance of the Spirit. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">I know of nothing that separates more from God than truth spoken out of communion with God. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">(J.N.Darby)</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9513</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1217fa;">"Abraham said, My son, God will provide Himself a lamb for a burnt offering: </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #1217fa;">so they went both of them together." (Genesis 22:8)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1217fa;">"Can two walk together, except they be agreed?" (Amos 3:3)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Abraham and Isaac were united as they made their trek to the altar on the top of Mount Moriah. So too, in that long walk from heaven to Calvary, that place of divine sacrifice for our sin, God the Father and God the Son were in perfect harmony and total agreement in the great plan of salvation. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Who were the objects of this unified, unsurpassed, and undeserved love? You and me! How much we owe! <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">(D. Logan)</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">Lest I forget Gethsemane; lest I forget Thine agony;</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">Lest I forget Thy love for me, lead me to Calvary.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">(J.E. Hussey)</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9514</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0a14f5;">"Is there yet any that is left of the house of Saul, that I may show him kindness for Jonathan's sake? ... Is there not yet any of the house of Saul, that I may show the kindness of God unto him? (2 Samuel 9:1,3)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">King Saul had not been kind to David, but all that is forgotten. David remembers the one lovely thing that came from that house. <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">"Whatsoever things are...lovely..think on these things." (Philippians 4:8)</span></strong>; leave the rest - forget them - that is the word that shines forth here. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Would it not be good to get into the way of looking out for chances to show kindness over and above duties? These words might be well written up, if not on the walls of our rooms, then on the walls of our hearts. <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">"is there any that I might show him kindness? Is there any that I might show the kindness of God unto him?"</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">(Amy Carmichael - Edges of His Ways)</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9515</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0a1ef6;">"Thou wilt show me the path of life: in Thy presence is fullness of joy; </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #0a1ef6;">at Thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0a1ef6;">(Psalm 16:11)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In His hand for salvation- Isaiah 59:1-2</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In His hand for security- John 10:29</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In His hand for succor- Ezra 8:31</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In His hand for submission- 1 Peter 5:6</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In His hand for service - Isaiah 49:1-4</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In His hand for sustenance- Psalm 145:14-16</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In His hand for severity- Hebrews 10:30-31</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In His hand for supremacy- Acts 5:30-31</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9516</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #170af4;">"When Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me." </span></strong></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #170af4;">(Matthew 14:29,30)</span></strong></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">Peter had a little faith in the midst of his doubts, says Bunyan; and so with crying and coming he was brought to Christ. But here you see that sight was a hindrance: <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">the waves were none of his business when once he had set out</span>; all Peter had any concern with, was the pathway of light that came gleaming across the darkness from where Christ stood.</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">If it was tenfold Egypt beyond that, Peter had no call to look and see. When the Lord shall call to you over the waters, <strong><span style="color: #170af4;">"Come,"</span></strong> step gladly forth. Look not for a moment away from Him.</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">Not by measuring the waves can you prevail; not by gauging the wind will you grow strong; to scan the danger may be to fall before it; to pause at the difficulties, is to have them break above your head. <strong><span style="color: #170af4;">Lift up your eyes unto the hills (Psalm 121:1)</span></strong>, and go forward - there is no other way. (<em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Streams in the Desert)</span></strong></em></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9517</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0b23f7;">He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0b23f7;">Micah 6:8</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0b23f7;">As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Him. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0b23f7;">Colossians 2:6</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">We see many older people using a cane to help them <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">walk</span> safely, and I am one of them. In the spiritual context, we all want to carry on with our spiritual walk in accordance with the verses quoted above — humbly before God, and in the power of the new life within us. But, like the person who needs a cane we often stumble, fail to lean on the Lord and struggle to keep our life in balance. To <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">walk</span> properly</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">before God, we need to lean on the Spirit of God. He is like my cane.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Stability</strong> - For this we need firm footing and a solid foundation. It's much easier to <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">walk</span> safely when we select a clear path or solid sidewalk. The best path for the believer is upon the basis of the holy scriptures - certainly we find therein a firm footing and a solid foundation. <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">“That He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to he strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man. That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love…” Ephesians 3:16-17.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">Support</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> —there are many rich promises in the scriptures, and here is one of them:</span><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;"> “Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling . . .” Jude 24 </span></strong>We little know just how much we are protected from. The Holy Sport is like a hedge around us, very often preventing us from stumbling into the ways of Satan.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">(Lorne Perry) <strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">(More tomorrow)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9518</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">About Walking - <strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">(Part 2 )</span></strong> (The Holy Spirit is our constant resource)</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Walking in the right direction</strong> - It is my frequent experience when out <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">walking</span> that my steps wander away from where I want to go. My cane helps get me back on track. When we fail to stay vigilant, our lives can quickly veer away from the narrow way that leadeth up to God. <strong><span style="color: #070cf4;">Matthew 7:13</span></strong>. If we quickly turn to the Lord, His Spirit will bring us back into line. <strong><span style="color: #070cf4;">“</span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: #1b0bf8;">There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">walk</span> not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” Romans 8:1</span></strong></em><span style="color: #1b0bf8;">.</span></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Balance</strong> - The older we get, the harder it is to maintain our balance. A cane can be a big help. It's something to lean on when you start to tip to one side or the other. Our spiritual life, at any age, can easily get out of balance. We do have to study, work, bring up children, etc., but we also need to spend time in the scriptures, in prayer and in worship. <strong><span style="color: #070cf4;">“</span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: #1207f7;">Ponder the path of thy feet, and let all thy ways be established. Turn not to the right hand nor to the left.” Proverbs 4:26-27</span></strong></em>. Once more, it will be the Holy Spirit who will direct us in maintaining the desired balance.</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><strong>The Canopy of Love</strong> - <em><strong><span style="color: #070cf4;">Charity shall cover a multitude of sins. 1 Peter 4:8</span></strong></em>. It was the love of the Lord Jesus that took care of our sins, and now it hovers above all that goes on in our lives, and affects every detail. Then what follows is its activity within us to extend that love to those around.</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">That activity is prompted by the Holy Spirit within us. An example is found in <strong><span style="color: #070cf4;">Acts 8:29:</span></strong> “<em><strong><span style="color: #0611fc;">Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near and join thyself to this chariot</span></strong></em>.” Philip explained the scripture the official was reading aboard his chariot and the man was saved. A wonderful display of love, under the direction of the Lord by His Spirit. When we allow the Spirit to be active, there will be blessing. <strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Lorne Perry</span></strong></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9519</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0a12f4;">"When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #0a12f4;">and through the rivers,</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0a12f4;">they shall not overflow thee; when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0a12f4;">not be burned, neither shall the flame kindle upon thee." (Isaiah 43:2)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">We are never staying in the valley or the rough waters; we are always only passing through them, just as the bride in the Song of Solomon is seen coming up from the wilderness leaning upon her Beloved. <strong><span style="color: #0a12f4;">(Song of Solomon 8:5)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">So whatever the valley is, or however rough the waters are, we won't fear. Leaning upon our Beloved we shall come up from the wilderness and, as <strong><span style="color: #0a12f4;">Psalm 84:6 says,</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0a12f4;">"Passing through the valley of weeping they make it a place of springs (make it a well).”</span></strong> even use the valley as a well, make it a well. We shall find the living waters there and drink of them. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">(Amy Carmichael - Candles in the Dark)</span></strong></em>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9520</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1806ed;">"My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #1806ed;">thou art rebuked of Him." </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1806ed;">(Hebrews 12:5)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The famous oriental philosopher, Lokman, while a slave, being presented by his master with a bitter melon, immediately ate it all. "How was it possible,”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">said his master, "for you to eat so nauseous a fruit?" Lokman replied, "I have received so many favours from you, it is no wonder I should, for once in my life, eat a bitter melon from your hand." </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The generous answer of the slave struck the master so forcibly, that he immediately gave him his liberty. Unlike Lokman's master, however, our God never chastens arbitrarily or unnecessarily. He always chastens for our profit, </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1806ed;">"For they verily for a few days chastened us (as they thought best); but He for our profit, that we might be partakers of His holiness." (Hebrews 12:10);</span></strong> and the recognition of that grand fact will act as a mighty deterrent in the soul that is in danger of <strong><span style="color: #1806ed;">"despising the chastening of the Lord."</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">George Henderson - The Pearl of Psalms)</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9521</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0709f6;">“... Esau came from the field, and he was faint: and Esau said to Jacob, feed me, I pray thee... for l am faint... and Jacob said, sell me this day thy birthright. And Esau said, behold, I am at the point to die: and what profit shall this birthright do to me... Jacob gave Esau bread and pottage of lentils; and he did eat and drink... Esau despised his birthright.” </span></strong></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0709f6;">(Genesis 25:29-34)</span></strong></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">Note the conduct of Esau in reference to the birthright, and all which it involved. The natural heart places no value on the things of God. To it, God's promise is a vague, valueless, powerless thing, simply because God is not known. Hence it is that present things carry such weight and influence in man's estimation.</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">Anything that man can see, he values, because he is governed by sight and not by faith. To him, the present is everything; the future is a mere uninfluential thing - a matter of the merest uncertainty. Thus it was with Esau. <strong><span style="color: #0709f6;">"I am at the point to die; and what profit shall this birthright do to me?"</span></strong> What strange reasoning! - the present is slipping from beneath my feet, I will therefore despise and entirely let go the future! - Time is fading from my view, I will therefore abandon all interest in eternity! "Thus Esau despised his birthright."</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">Man has no heart for the things of God. The present is everything to him. Food is better than a title to Canaan. Hence, the very reason why Esau made light of the birthright was the very reason why he ought to have grasped it with the greater intensity. The more clearly I see the vanity of man's present, the more I shall cleave to God's future. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">(C.H. Macintosh - Notes on Genesis)</span></strong></em></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9522</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #320bf7;">"Yet a little while, and the world seeth Me no more." (John 14:19)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">We must be broken off from the world. He gives us everything needed in the way, but never presents that as our end. This world is neither Canaan nor Egypt, but a wilderness. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">By clinging to it we are not in the wilderness but in Egypt, and that is why we need chastening; for if we make a Canaan of this world, then it becomes Egypt to us. The moment we make it our home, and settle down in it, it is our Egypt.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The Lord must break our will. He says, <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">"A little while and the world seeth Me no more."</span></strong> It is all done with. He puts a distinction between Himself and the world; therefore if we take Him we cannot have the world, and if we take the world we cannot have the enjoyment of Him - we cannot have both. <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">"Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world." (2 Timothy 4:10) </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">(J.N. Darby - Lectures on the First Epistle of John)</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9523</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2a0dfc;">"The Lord God hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him that is weary." (Isaiah 50:4)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">If God had passed over the sin of Adam and Eve in the garden, I should have been able to say, Sin is no matter, but when I look at the cross I cannot. (J.N. Darby)</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9524</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0c14f5;">"These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may KNOW that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God." (1 John 5:13)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">An old gentleman who was leaving for the Continent called upon his lawyer to have his will attested. Everything in the will was clearly stated; and he concluded it with these words: "I wish to testify that I die trusting the merits of my Saviour, Jesus Christ, and hope that I am accepted by God for His sake." </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The lawyer was a Christian man and said to him: "Mr.-, why do you only hope that you are accepted when God says that <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">"He hath made us accepted in the beloved?" - Ephesians 1:6</span></strong>. He answered: "Because it would be presumption." "Well," said the solicitor, "if it be presumption, God has endorsed it." There is the word: <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">"He hath made us accepted in the beloved."</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Without another word, the aged man drew his pen through the word "hope" and wrote the word "KNOW." "I die trusting in the merits of my Saviour, Jesus Christ, and KNOW that I am accepted by God for His sake." </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">(George Henderson - In Pastures Green)</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="background-color: white; white-space-collapse: preserve;"></span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9525</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 27</span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-11901800987148105442024-02-01T07:40:00.048-05:002024-02-28T09:54:27.923-05:00Gems from February 2024<p> <span style="font-size: x-large;">February 1</span></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1031ec;">According as His divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness. 2 Peter1:3</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Only worship that is in spirit and in truth is </span><em><span style="color: black;">right worship</span></em><span style="color: black;">, such worship must come from the overflow of grateful hearts, as we gaze upon our Lord Jesus Christ in all His loveliness and beauty, and as we ponder His love that passeth knowledge. </span><strong><span style="color: #0507f7;">“Looking upon Jesus as He walked” John exclaimed, “Behold the Lamb of God!” (John 1:36) </span></strong><span style="color: black;">That was true worship, right worship: </span><strong><span style="color: #1017e7;">“it is such worshippers that the Father seeks to worship Him</span></strong><span style="color: black;">.</span><strong><span style="color: #1524e1;">”</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> </span><strong><span style="color: #3212f1;">(John 4:23</span><span style="color: #4b24f7;">)</span></strong><span style="color: black;">.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">It is only as our hearts are filled with Christ, by gazing upon Him, that our hearts will overflow, and give forth Right Worship to Him and to His Father.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Paul said to the Athenians </span><strong><span style="color: #2615ee;">“Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, Him declare I unto you” (Acts 17:23) </span></strong><span style="color: black;">May it be that the wondrous grace of God reckoned this ignorant worship of an unknown God, by those who were “feeling after Him” as </span><em><span style="color: black;">right worship</span></em><span style="color: black;">? But He is not to us an ‘Unknown God,‘ but One whom we know well: One who is our best Friend: One to whom we owe all. As we gaze upon Him, well may our hearts rise up in true worship and adoration, until they overflow! May it be so, more and more!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;">O fix our earnest gaze so wholly, Lord, on Thee,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;">That with Thy beauty occupied, we elsewhere none may see.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Hid Treasures - G. C. Willis</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9475</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3a08f3;">Tremble, thou earth, at the presence of the Lord at the presence of the God of Jacob; which turned the rock into a standing water, the flint into a fountain of waters. Psalms 114:7-8</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Sometimes we pray, and pray, and pray about a matter. If it’s a request, the answer just never seems to come; if its a problem, it never seems to budge. If that is so, we are still praying to One who has promised, <strong><span style="color: #3009f2;">“Ask that ye may receive.” (John 16:24) </span></strong> If there is a delay there is a good reason and perhaps we should try to find it. It is in the hands of the One who turns the hard rock into flowing water.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Through manifold temptation,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">My soul holds on its course,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Christ’s mighty intercession</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Alone is my resource </span><span style="font-size: 11px;">Choice Supplications</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert —9476 </p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1b2ef5;">"It came to pass after a while, that the brook dried up, because there had been no rain in the land." </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1b2ef5;">(1 Kings 17:7)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Week after week, with unfaltering and steadfast spirit, Elijah watched that dwindling brook; often tempted to stagger through unbelief, but refusing to allow his circumstances to come between himself and God. Unbelief sees God through circumstances, as we sometimes see the sun shorn of his rays through smoky air; but faith puts God between itself and circumstances, and looks at them through Him.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And so the dwindling brook became a sliver thread; and the silver thread stood presently in pools at the foot of the largest boulders; and the pools shrank. The birds fled; the wild creatures of field and forest came no more to drink; the brook was dry. Only then to his patient and unwavering spirit, <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">"the word of the Lord came,</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">saying, Arise, get thee to Zarephath." (1 Kings 17:9)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Most of us would have gotten anxious and worn with planning long before that. We should have ceased our songs as soon as the streamlet caroled less musically over its rocky bed; and with harps swinging on the willows, we should have paced to and fro upon the withering grass, lost in pensive thought. And probably, long ere the brook was dry, we should have devised some plan, and asking God's blessing on it, would have started off elsewhere. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">God often does extricate us, because His mercy endures forever; but if we had only waited first to see the unfolding of His plans, we should never have found ourselves landed in such an inextricable labyrinth; and we should never have been compelled to retrace our steps with so many tears of shame. <em><strong>Wait, patiently wait</strong></em>!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">(F. B. Meyer)</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert —9477</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3a08f3;">"... I (Paul) persecuted the church of God and wasted it... but when it pleased God, who ... called me by His grace, to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood ...</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3a08f3;">(Galatians 1:13-16)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">- The soul that has found all its springs in God, can, without any demur, retire from all creature streams.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">- The moment we confer with flesh and blood, our testimony and service are marred, for flesh and blood can never obey.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">- If we merely act from impulse, when the impulse subsides, the acting will subside also.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">- True devotedness will ever be founded upon, and governed by, divine principle.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">- Whenever devotedness passes beyond divinely appointed bounds, it is suspicious.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">- It is easy to make a show of devotedness, when there is no demand for it.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">- Nothing can be more thoroughly worthless than a spirit of empty pretension.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">(Food for the Desert)</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert —9478</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3a08f3;">"In My Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." (John 14:2,3)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;">description</span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"> of Heaven - "In my Father's house are many mansions."</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;">assurance</span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"> of it - "If it were not so, I would have told you."</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;">furnishing</span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"> of it - "I go to prepare a place for you."</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;">safe conduct</span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"> to it - "I will come again, and receive you unto Myself."</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;">glory</span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"> of it - "That where I am, there ye may be also."</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">The manna and the springing well</span></span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Suffice for every need:</span></span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">And Eschol's grapes the story tell</span></span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Of where our path doth lead.</span></span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">(From - His Last Words - Henry Durbanville)</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert —9479</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">"For whom He did foreknow He also did predestinate to be conformed </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">to the image of His Son.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">(Romans 8:29)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">- Only melted gold is minted.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">- Only moistened clay is molded.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">• Only softened wax receives the die.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">- Only broken hearts can take and keep the impress of heaven.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">If that is your condition, wait beneath the pressure of the Holy Spirit. He shall leave the image of Christ upon you.</span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> (Selected)</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert —9480</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3a08f3;">"No man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church." (Ephesians 5:29)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">There is the special entrance of His mind, His careful interest in those that belong to Him. It is a great comfort that we know this to be true in the present state of the Church, when we think of the ruin of all around. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Does Christ ever cease to nourish that which belongs to Him? Impossible. Spite of all the ruin, He has the same care for His people. We never can pray too much for the Church; but it is another thing to be troubling our minds as if the Lord forgot her, and were not taking adequate care of the saints in their need and sorrow. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The Lord has never failed; and what He here tells us to do in our earthly relationships is no more than what He perfectly does towards His Church. He loves the Church; He nourishes and cherishes it, and He does this because </span><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">"... we are members of His body, of His flesh, and of His bones." (Ephesians 5:30) </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Just as Eve was a part of Adam, so the Church is of Christ. The Lord took out of Adam's side that which He built into his wife. So we stand in this nearness of relationship t Christ." </span><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">(William Kelly - Lectures on Ephesians)</span></span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert —9481</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3a08f3;">"The testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy." (Revelation 19:10)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The scripture above, is a deeply interesting statement. It is one of the few sentences in Scripture which can be reversed. We can say equally well, "The spirit of prophecy is the testimony of Jesus.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">It brings out a thought dear to every Christian who understands that prophecy has in all its parts a relation to Christ. This is true, whether the prophecy is direct or indirect as to Christ, whether it has to do with the Church, which is His body; the Jews, who are His earthly people; or the Gentiles over whom He will rule eventually as Son of Man. HE is the Centre of prophecy, and all its predictions are related to that Centre. That being so, how absorbingly interesting the prophetic word becomes. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Alas! the misuse of prophecy is not uncommon. Its details are too often discussed simply as appealing to the intellect, and the conscience is not exercised, and the heart's affections are not stirred. Let us ever remember that God never records the past, nor reveals the future, without designing to affect us by His word in the present.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">To see how God will have all things headed up in Christ, to see aright how His ways in grace and government are all leading to this grand goal, is to secure these two things - a conscience exercised and affections deepened. (A.J. Pollock - Things Which Must Shortly Come to Pass)</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9482</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">“But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.” James 1:14,15</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The strength of a temptation lies in the response of our nature to its suggestions. It is said that the germs of the potato and vine disease are always floating in the air; but they can find no place of operation — no bed — in healthy plants. But directly plants become degenerate and unable to resist their attacks, then they sweep away the farmer’s hopes in dreadful ruin.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">So it is with us; if only we were like our Lord, we should pass unscathed through a whirlwind of temptations; they would find nothing in us. It is because our hearts are so desperately wicked that we need to stand in constant watchfulness. <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">“Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” (Proverbs 4:23)</span></strong>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">There is no sin in having certain tendencies, appetites, and desires; else there would be sin in hunger, and in drowsiness leading to soft sleep. But the danger lies in the fear that they should be gratified to an immoderate excess, or from wrong and improper sources. Human nature is very liable to this. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">F. B. Meyer — Joseph</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert —9483</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #070cec;">"And there shall be no night there; and they need no</span></strong></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #070cec;">candle, neither light of the sun; for the Lord God giveth them light:”</span></strong></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #070cec;">Revelation 22:5</span></strong></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Of Heaven:</span></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The LIGHT of heaven is the face of JESUS;</span></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The JOY of heaven is the presence of JESUS;</span></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The MELODY of heaven is the Name of JESUS;</span></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The HARMONY of heaven is the praise of JESUS;</span></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The THEME of heaven is the work of JESUS;</span></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The EMPLOYMENT of heaven is the service of JESUS;</span></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The FULNESS of heaven is the Person of JESUS HIMSELF</span></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Author unknown</span></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert —9484</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2510f1;">I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not. Luke 22:32</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Are we concerned for a brother or a sister in trial? Let us pray for them that their faith may not fail. At the present there are thousands of God's children depressed to despair. The irretrievable loss of all possessions does not move them now. But a great dread hangs over them. Will God allow their little ones to be engulfed in the overflowing infidelity? Let us pray for these our suffering fellow saints. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Prayer makes the darkened clouds withdraw,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Prayer climbs the ladder Jacob saw; </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Gives exercise to faith and love,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Brings hope and blessing from above.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9485</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1421f8;">The wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 6:23</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>WHAT IF…?</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>What if God is real?</strong> It’s a common belief that God is not real; that God is a myth from an earlier time. So, just live your life, they say, and get as much enjoyment along the way as you can. But what if God is alive and well and residing in heaven right now? actually, that is true. He’s written a Book about His creation, His love for people, and what He has done to make it possible for people to be in heaven.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #261ae5;">Hebrews 1:1-2: “God, who at sundry (various) times and in divers (various) ways spoke in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, has in these last days spoken unto us by His Son, whom He has appointed heir of all things, by whom also He made the worlds.”</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">But He also sets a very high standard for us that we could never live up to, because: <strong><span style="color: #2f14f4;">“All have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23). “None can by any means redeem his brother nor give to God a ransom for him.” (Psalm 49:7)</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">What if I am really such a sinner that I am already condemned? The truth is, you are. God says so in <strong><span style="color: #200fe3;">John 3:18 “He that believes on Him is not condemned: but <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">he that believes not is condemned already</span>, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.</span></strong> But, thanks be unto God, He offers us this generous gift. <strong><span style="color: #1b0fe6;">(Romans 6:23)</span></strong> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lorne for Vision 2020 for 2024</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="font-size: 15px;">N.J.Hiebert - 9486</span></em></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>WHAT IF…? (Part 2)</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1534f3;">The wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 6:23</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>What if Jesus is really God’s Son?</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Millions have believed that Jesus lived, died on the cross, rose again and is in heaven now. He is the eternal Son of God, and one reason He died was to open a way for you to be redeemed by His shed blood. <strong><span style="color: #0d15f8;">“We know that the Son of God is come, and hath given us an understanding that we may know Him that is true, and we are in Him that is true, even in His Son Jesus Christ. This is the true God, and eternal life.” 1 John 5:20</span></strong>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>What if hell is real? When I die, then what?</strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">God’s generous offer is only available during your lifetime. After that it is too late. Eternity in hell is the only option. <strong><span style="color: #0f16e6;"> “Who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord.” (2 Thessalonians 1:9)</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>What if there is a sure way to avoid Hell?</strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The Bible declares that there is. What are you going take seriously, the philosophy of so called “educated men”, or the Truth of God? Consider <strong><span style="color: #1c2cf1;">John 14:6</span></strong> spoken by Jesus; <strong><span style="color: #2413f1;">“I am the Way, the Truth and the Life”</span></strong>. It is very dangerous to postpone a decision about this. <strong><span style="color: #0a0cf1;">Hebrews 2:3 says</span></strong>: <strong><span style="color: #2508f4;">“How shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation?”</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">This is not a new thing.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">This same message, drawn from what</span> God says in His Word has been presented around the world ever since Jesus began His ministry over 2,000 years ago. How generous and gracious God has been to tolerate mankind’s disobedience all these years, patiently waiting for someone like you to take His Son as your personal Saviour. Believe on the Lord Jesus right now and you will immediately become part of that enormous company of those who have embraced God’s great offer. <strong><span style="color: #2429c3;">(Acts 16:31) </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Lorne for Vision 2020 for 2024</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9487</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">Finally, be ye all of one mind, having compassion one of another, love as brethren, be <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">pitiful</span>, be <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">courteous</span>. 1 Peter 3:8, </span></strong>enjoins the apostle who seemingly had to learn it the hard way. Our Lord was very pitiful, and always courteous.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">There is the thought of offense latent in each of these words; “pitiful,” “courteous.” Pitiful is that condition of soul that considers the weakness, the infirmity, or ignorance of the offender, and thus does not take offense. This was always true of our Lord. There was compassion and mercy always in His heart. He considered the burden of others.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The story is told of Napoleon walking with a lady along a path that became so narrow that the lady had to walk ahead with the Emperor behind. Approaching them was a workman with a heavy load on his back. The lady kept to the path so the burdened workman would have to step aside. Napoleon gently took the lady by the shoulders and caused her to leave the path so the man with the load could continue on the walk. Speaking to the lady, Napoleon said, “Madam, consider the burden.”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">This our Lord always did. The disciples rudely awakened Him from His sleep when He was weary in the boat on stormy Galilee: <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">“Master, carest Thou not that we perish?”</span></strong> What unbelieving folly (except that we are guilty of the same!) to suppose that the boat would sink with Christ in it. But He considered their panic and fear, and rebuked the wind and the sea with, <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">“Peace, be still.”</span></strong> He could have rebuked them and let the storm rage on. But He was pitiful. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">A Plant of Renown - Leonard Sheldrake</span></strong></em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;"> </span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert —9488</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">And he (Jonah) said unto them, take me up, and cast me forth into the sea; so shall the sea be calm unto you: for I know that for my sake this great tempest is upon you. Jonah 1:12</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">When the turbulent sea was raging against the mariners in the ship in Jonah’s day, the prophet said,<strong><span style="color: #0714f9;"> “Take me up, and cast me forth into the sea; so shall the sea be calm unto you. Jonah went down to the bottom of the mountains.“ (Jonah 2:6) </span><span style="color: black;">for three days and three nights.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Thus the prophet Jonah was a substitute for others. He went into the angry billows that the trembling mariners might be saved from being engulfed in their fury. Our Lord said many years later, <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">“For as Jonas was three days and three nights in the whale’s belly; so shall the Son of Man be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth” (Matthew 12:40).</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Loving obedience took Isaac, the son of his father’s love, to the altar of sacrifice. There the ram in all the might of its mature strength was held and consumed to ashes on Mount Moriah <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">(Genesis 22:1-14)</span></strong>. Abraham saw the day of Christ <span style="color: #0714f9;">(John 8:56)</span> on that occasion and was glad. The father of all who believe said, <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">“The name of this place is Jejhovah-jireh” for here “in the mount of the Lord it shall be seen“ (Genesis 22:14)</span></strong>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Again and again, the Spirit of God gave portrayals of this eternally glorious achievement, the death of the Lord Jesus Christ. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">Selected</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Sing of His dying love; sing of His rising power;</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Sing how He intercedes above for those whose sins He bore. Isaac Watts, 1709 </span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9489</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness. 2 Timothy 3:16</span></b></p><p style="background-color: white; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><b><span style="color: #2b00fe;">For I know Whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that day 2 Timothy 1:12</span><span style="color: #202020;"> </span></b><span style="color: #202020;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Let me remind you of what an old stone-breaker said, as he sat by the roadside during the lunch hour, reading his much worn New Testament.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">A party of tourists came by, and one of them said :</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">"How can an old fool like you understand that Book?"</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">With the grace of a Christian gentleman, the old man replied : " It would not</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">be possible, sir, in the ordinary way ; but you see I happen to know the Author."</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> “The Wonderful Word, George Henderson”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert —9490</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">“What is Truth” John 18:38</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">I remember many years ago one of the Professors of this University, with whom I</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">was very intimate, and at whose house I was one evening, after a long conversation, turned, and said to me, "Look here, doctor, I am earnestly seeking after the truth? "I have got it, sir," I replied. "What do you mean?” "I mean this, I have Christ, and He is the truth."</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Christ is the truth, and I want to draw your attention tonight to these precious words of the Saviour which I have read--uttered by Him when surrounded by everything that the enmity of man could bring against Him, when betrayed, denied, blindfolded, and passed on from one careless high priest to another, and then trundled away to the judgment-seat of a godless man, as Pilate undoubtedly was. Yet in the face of all this, what was His attitude? Look at Christ! Look how quiet, how calm, albeit how sad.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Then it was He said: "To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth hears my voice."</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Pilate carelessly says "<span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">What is truth</span>?" and then turns his back on Truth personified.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Ah! my friends, there is many a man doing that to-day. Pilate is not the only man who has turned his back on the Truth. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">W. T. P. Wolston M.D.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">truth</span> and the life: no man cometh unto the Father but by Me. John 14:6</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9491</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: #101fee;">I remember thee upon my bed, and meditate on thee in the night watches.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: #101fee;">Psalm 63:6</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">On three separate occasions does God speak of the value and blessedness of meditation on His Word:</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">(a) In Joshua 1 it is said to be the secret of Prosperity:verse 8</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">(b) In Psalm 1 it is said to be the secret of Fruitfulness :verse 2.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">(c) In James 1 it is said to be the secret of Blessedness:verse 25.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The art of meditation on His Word is thereby affirmed, and must be well worth acquiring. The broad distinction between study and meditation is, that the one is pre-eminently a thing of the head, and the other, a thing of the heart. Just as it is not what we eat that nourishes us but only what we digest, so it is not what we read that strengthens us spiritually, but only what we assimilate by meditation on it. A simple illustration of the difference between the search for truth, and meditation, is found in <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">Proverbs 12: 27: "The slothful man roasts not that which he took in hunting.”</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">That is to say, he enjoyed the chase but, although he brought home the prey, he did nothing further with it, and so failed to appropriate the nourishment which it</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">would have imparted. In like manner we may hunt for truth: our heads may be full of knowledge of the letter of the Word; but unless we meditate on what we thus acquire, it may do us little good. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Our note-books may be filled, while our hearts may be empty. As preachers, especially, we must ever remember that it is as we muse that the fires of devotion</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">kindle; and that the words, which are spoken as the result of such musing, will be words of power and blessing <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">(Psalm 39. 3)</span></strong>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9492</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Joseph’s brethren protest that it is their need that brings them into Egypt.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">"We have come to buy food" (Genesis 42:10)</span></strong>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">They have indeed come to the right person, but they have come with a wrong plan and with a wrong plea. Their plan is to buy, and their plea <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">"We are true men" (V11)</span></strong>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">As yet they know neither the love of Joseph's heart, nor the evil of their own hearts. They must learn that Joseph is too rich to sell to his own, and that they have nothing in themselves to plead. Their money shall not buy corn, and of merit they have none whereby to claim it. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">They must learn that while Joseph is ready to bestow every blessing, he is one upon whom they have forfeited every claim. Love is a giver when worthlessness has nothing to plead.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The love of Joseph's heart will shut out all mere barter, and the evil of their hearts exclude all plea of merit. If they think they are true men then Joseph will put</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">them to the test. <strong>JOSEPH - </strong><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Revealer of Secrets Saviour of the World — Hamilton Smith</span></strong><span style="font-size: 14px;"> </span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9493</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: #1125ef;">Fear not for I am with thee, and will bless thee. Genesis 26:24</span></strong></em></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: #1125ef;">Fear ye not: I will nourish you and your little ones. Genesis 50:21</span></strong></em></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: #1125ef;">Good is the word of the Lord Isaiah, 39:8</span></strong></em></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">The Saviour can lift every burden,</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">The heavy as well as the light;</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">His strength is made perfect in weakness,</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">In Him there is power and might.</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">The Saviour can solve every problem,</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">The tangles of life can undo;</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">There is nothing too hard for Jesus,</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">There is nothing that He cannot do.</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">The Saviour can bear every sorrow,</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">In Him there is comfort and rest;</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">No matter how great the affliction,</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">He only permits what is best.</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">The Saviour can strengthen the weary,</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">His grace is sufficient for all;</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">He knows every step of the pathway</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">And listens to hear when we call.</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">The Saviour can break sin's dominion,</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">The vict'ry He won long ago;</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">In Him there is freedom from bondage,</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">He's able to conquer the foe.</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">The Saviour can satisfy fully</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">The heart that the world cannot fill:</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">His Spirit will sanctify wholly</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">The soul that is yielded and still.</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Oswald J. Smith</span></strong></em></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9494</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: large;">February 21</span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0f22eb;">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 worshiped the Lord there. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0f22eb;">1 Samuel 1:27,28</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">FATHER, hear us, we are praying,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Hear the words our hearts are saying,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">We are praying for our children.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Keep them from the powers of evil,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">From the secret, hidden peril,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">From the whirlpool that would suck them,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">From the treacherous quicksand, pluck them.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">From the worldling's hollow gladness</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">From the sting of faithless sadness</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Holy Father, save our children.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Through life's troubled waters steer them,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Through life's bitter battle cheer them,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Father, Father, be Thou near them.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Read the language of our longing,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Read the wordless pleadings thronging,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Holy Father, for our children.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em> And wherever they may bide,</em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em> Lead them Home at eventide. <strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Amy Carmichael</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9495</p></span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: large;">February 22</span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">“The Son of God who loved me and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">There were two young men who had been friends at college. As life went on they</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">trod different roads: the one was steady and honourable; step by step he rose in his profession until he became a judge. The other trod the downward path; unsteady, unprincipled, dishonest, he went from bad to worse.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Years passed, and one day the Judge found himself facing his former friend in the prisoner's dock. Many in the Court knew of the old friendship, and they felt sure the prisoner would be lightly dealt with. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">But, after hearing the case, the Judge condemned the man to pay a heavy fine, the highest amount it was possible to sentence him to pay. A murmur of disapproval ran round the Court as they thought, Is this his kindness to his friend! He cannot pay; he will have to go to prison. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">But, before the man was removed, the Judge ordered a moment's pause. Laying aside his robes of office, he left his seat and came and stood beside the prisoner in the dock; then, taking out his cheque-book, he wrote a cheque for the whole amount of the fine, and gave it to the prisoner. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Do you see — as a righteous Judge he condemned the criminal, but as his friend</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">he paid the penalty himself, and set him free. Even so, through the death of Jesus, God can now be <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">“a Just God and a Saviour.” (Isaiah 45:21) </span></strong>Christ died that we might be forgiven.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">"Because the sinless Saviour died</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">My sinful soul is counted free!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">For God the Just is satisfied</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">To look on Him, and pardon me." </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">"He loved me, and gave Himself for me." This is the good news. Do you believe it? Do you take it in? Listen to these lines:</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">"I read that He was wounded, and bruised upon the Tree;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Yet felt no thrilling wonder! that He had died for me.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">But since, oh since I knew it, and saw Him bear my load,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">I cannot cease from praising my great Redeemer, God." <em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">J.M.K.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9496</p></span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: large;">February 23</span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: #151ff3;">At about noon the following day as they were on their <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">journey</span> and approaching</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: #151ff3;">the city, Peter went up on the roof to pray. Acts 10:9.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">We are all on a <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">journey</span>, beginning somewhere and ending somewhere else. The Apostle Peter's habit was to pray as he went along; and that's good counsel for us. The Bible, in <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">1 Thessalonians 5:17</span></strong>, urges us to <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">Pray without ceasing</span></strong>. It's not that we should do nothing else with our lives but pray; however it suggests that our lives should be characterized by regular prayer. What were Peter's next steps to be?</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">He knew he wouldn't know where to go or how to act without guidance from the Lord, and that's what he earnestly sought in prayer.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">And they departed from the mount of the Lord three days' <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">journey</span>: and the ark of the covenant of the Lord went before them...to search out a resting place for them. Numbers 10:33.</span></strong> Soon after the Children of Israel began their long <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">journey</span> from Egypt to the promised land, God gave Moses detailed instructions for the construction the Tabernacle, of which the central item was the ark. That was where</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">God came to be in the midst of His people, wherever the ark rested. This points clearly to the need for us to have our Ark, the Lord Jesus, accompany us every step of our <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">journey</span> through life. Our rest comes from our confidence in the Lord. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">(The Lord Jesus) commanded them that they should take nothing for their journey, save a staff only; no scrip (baggage), no bread, no money in their purse. <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">Mark 6:8</span></strong>. This is a picture of complete trust.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The disciples sent out as missionaries were to rely on the Lord for all needs along the way. He would assure that kind people offered them all they needed. However, their staff was essential for stability along the primitive, often rocky, paths of the day, but otherwise they could leave shelter and provisions up to the Lord. Perhaps we don't often exhibit such simple trust in the Lord, but His resources are open-</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">ended and generous. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Three more <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Journeys</span> tomorrow, if the Lord will. Every <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">journey</span> needs some time to pause and reflect, but at the same time, continuing to honour and serve the Lord. (Part 1) </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Lorne Perry</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9497</p></span></div></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">Now Jacob's well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied with His <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">journey</span>, sat thus on the well. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">John 4:6. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The Lord Jesus was both a Man and God at the same time. He was as weary as we all become after a long hike; but as God, He knew that a kind lady would come to draw water and ease His thirst. It turned out she was ready to have her life turned around by One who had all the answers. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Water in scripture often reminds us of the life-giving Word of God. In this story, she heard Words of Life directly from the lips of the One who asked her for a drink. We need to often pause in our <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">journey</span> and read thoughtfully from the scriptures. Thus we are refreshed and, with renewed vigour, can continue our <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">journey</span> of service to the Lord.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">Beloved, thou doest faithfully whatsoever thou doest to the brethren, and to strangers; which have borne witness of thy charity (love) before the church; whom if thou bring forward on their <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">journey</span> after a godly sort, thou shalt do well. 3 John verses 5 and 6.</span></strong> This was a generous commendation of the man addressed, Gaius. He was ready to share with those around just what he had enjoyed of the Word of God for their comfort and edification. May we, who have accumulated and enjoy so much of the truth of God, be ready to pass it on to both saved and unsaved.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">The younger son gathered all together, and took his <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">journey</span> into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living. Luke 15:13.</span></strong> Not all <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">journeys</span> are in the right direction. This young man wanted his inheritance NOW, and then squandered it. Impatience led him away from home to seek what the world had to offer. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The happy ending is that, in desperation, he humbly returned to find forgiveness and warmth. So it is with us. Too often we stray but when we wake up and retrace our steps, we find a loving Saviour ready to forgive and bless. <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">Psalm 51:3,10 For I acknowledge my transgressions - Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me</span></strong>. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Lorne Perrry </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9498</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: #0d36f6;">"I (Paul) have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase." </span></strong></em><em><strong><span style="color: #0d36f6;">(1 Corinthians 3:6)</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Remember in speaking to any one you wish to help, that the more earnest and unconscious of self you are, the better you will help them. Probably the words you think most telling will affect them least, while those you think nothing of, God will use for their good. Leave all results with God. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">You are not always digging up the seeds in your garden to see how they are growing. Trust all to God, and He will bless your work. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Remember, God always works, very slowly and very surely; the bud is formed slowly, opens slowly. We must work as God works, not with great strides self-love would like to work with.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">(H. Monsell)</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9499</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong style="font-size: 16px; text-align: center;"><span style="color: #0d0cf9;">"For so was it charged (commanded) me by the word of the Lord."</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0d0cf9;">(1 Kings 13:9)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">An experiment with teenagers showed how they handle peer pressure.Groups of 10 adolescents were brought into a room and instructed to raise their hands when the teacher pointed to the longest line on three charts. Nine of the people had been told ahead of time to vole for the second-longest line. But one person in the group had not been told. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The experiment began with nine teenagers voting for the wrong line. The tenth person would typically glance around, frown in confusion, and slip his hand up with the group because he lacked the courage to challenge them.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In 1 kings 13, an unidentified man of God performed miraculous signs at the altar in Bethel VV.1-6). But then, after this great victory, he took the word of another prophet to be the truth even though he knew it was contrary to what God had told him (VV.15-19). Because of his disobedience, he was killed by a lion (VV.20-24).</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The story teaches us that God's Word is superior to anyone else's word and therefore should be obeyed. When we're tempted to buckle under pressure, it's then that we must stand firm. God's Word - the truth - can always be relied on. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">(Anne Cetas)</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">O help, us Lord, to heed Thy Word,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Its precepts to obey;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And may we fight the tendency</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">To walk in our own way. - Sper</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>God's Word is the compass that keeps us on course.</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9500</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1207f3;">"That we may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #1207f3;">in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #1207f3;">shine as lights in the world." (Philippians 2:15)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Even in earthly things men look for guidance to the stars. A man lost on the prairie may find his way home by the stars. In navigation, sailors look to the stars, especially to the North Star. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In an important survey, we always run our base-lines by the stars, particularly the North Star: and so keep them from becoming crooked and distorted. Thus these 'luminaries”, these ‘heavenly lights' in this dark world, need to remember that those who walk in darkness have their eyes upon them: but just as other stars point to the North Star, let us ever have our eye fixed on 'The Bright and Morning Star, and then our path will not be crooked, and we shall not lead astray those watching us. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It was a star which led the wise men to the Saviour at Bethlehem when He was a Babe. How good if we too can be like that! </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">(G.Christopher Willis</span></strong><span style="font-size: 14px;"> — </span><strong>Sacrifices of Joy)</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9501</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 28</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1125f2;">"The fiery darts of the wicked." (Ephesians 6:16)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Be not surprised if doubts and fears assail you. They are to be expected like evil thoughts or disease germs. You cannot avoid being attacked and, if you are sore beset, remember that the Bible, the Word of God'‘ has told you they will come. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It is not wrong to be the target of their onslaughts, but you need not be overcome by them. It means that you are in real conflict and dangerous enough to the devil to bring in his hostility. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">If you wonder why they seem to increase as you go on and grow older, it is because the fight gets hotter as you grow in grace and it never lets up. But greater is He that is in you than all your adversaries. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">You are pressed by many a foe so that you may be all the more helpful to others who are not shadow boxing but are in the thick of the fight." </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">(Vance Havner - All the Days)</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9502</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1d0ef1;">"One thing have I desired of the LORD, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #1d0ef1;">the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to behold the beauty </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #1d0ef1;">of the LORD, and to enquire in His temple." (Psalm 27:4)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">As we come together to worship, what is the focus of our attention? Do we meditate upon the beautiful character and person of our Saviour? He never sinned and never had to ask forgiveness for His words or actions. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">His words were full of grace and truth. His life was a life fragrant with love for all. His loving hands healed the sick. His loving lips spoke words of forgiveness to the broken sinner. His agonizing death for sinners proclaimed the amazing love of God.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br />He is a beautiful Saviour! Behold the beauty of the Lord! <em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">(Donald Norbie)</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9503</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #120cf4;">…Esau came from the field, and he was faint: and Esau said to Jacob, feed me, I pray thee… for l am faint... and Jacob said, sell me this day thy birthright. And Esau said, behold, I am at the point to die: and what profit shall this birthright do to me... Jacob gave Esau bread and pottage of lentils; and he did eat and</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #120cf4;">drink... Esau despised his birthright." </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #120cf4;">(Genesis 25:29-34)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Note the conduct of Esau in reference to the birthright, and all which it involved. The natural heart places no value on the things of God. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">To it, God's promise is a vague, valueless, powerless thing, simply because God is not known. Hence it is that present things carry such weight and influence in man's estimation. Anything that man can see. he values, because he is governed by sight and not by faith. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">To him, the present is everything; the future is a mere un-influential thing - a matter of the merest uncertainty. Thus it was with Esau. <strong><span style="color: #120cf4;">"I am at the point to die; and what profit shall this birthright do to me?"</span></strong> What strange reasoning! - the present is slipping from beneath my feet, I will therefore despise and entirely let go the future! - Time is fading from my view, I will therefore abandon all interest in eternity! <strong><span style="color: #120cf4;">"Thus Esau despised his birthright."</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Man has no heart for the things of God. The present is everything to him. Food is better than a title to Canaan. Hence, the very reason why Esau made light of the birthright was the very reason why he ought to have grasped it with the greater intensity. The more clearly I see the vanity of man's present, the more I shall cleave to God's future. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #120cf4;">(C.H. Macintosh - Notes onGenesis)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9504</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">TRUSTING</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">When we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. Romans 5:6</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">Lord, Thou wilt ordain peace for us; for Thou also hast wrought all our works in us. Isaiah 26:12 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">What a long time it takes to come down</span><strong><span style="color: #4d4d4d;"> </span></strong>to the conviction, and still more to the realization of the fact that without Him we can do <em><strong>nothing</strong></em>, <em><strong>(John 15:5)</strong></em> but that He must work <em><strong>all</strong></em> our works in us! This is the work of God, that ye believe in Him whom He hath sent. And no less must it be the work of God that we go on believing, and that we go on trusting.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Then, you who are longing to trust Him with unbroken and unwavering trust, cease the effort and drop the burden, and now entrust your trust to Him! He is just as well able to keep that as any other part of the complex lives which we want Him to take and keep for Himself. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And oh, do not pass on, content with the thought, “Yes, that is good idea; perhaps I should find that a great help!” But, “Now, then, <em><strong>do it</strong></em>.” It is no help to the sailor to see a flash of light across a dark sea, if he does not instantly steer accordingly. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">I am trusting Thee, Lord Jesus, trusting only Thee;</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Trusting Thee for full salvation, great and free.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">I am trusting Thee, Lord Jesus; never let me fall! </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">I am trusting Thee forever, and for all. </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Opened Treasures - Frances Ridley Havergal </span><span style="font-size: 14px;"> </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9505</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0a13f2;">Benaiah the son of Jehoiada, the son of a valiant man, of Kabzeel, who had done many acts, he slew two lionlike men of Moab: he went down also had gone down and slew a lion in the midst of a pit in time of snow. </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #0a13f2;">2 Samuel 23:20</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>On a snowy day</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Benaiah was one of the men who accompanied David on his flight from King Saul. The Bible calls him a brave man and tells how he fought a lion in a pit on a snowy day. Benaiah performed a difficult task in a difficult place and under difficult circumstances.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">God took note and made a point to record this feat in great detail in His Word. The external conditions under which Benaiah had to fight particularly highlight his courage of faith.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The Lord also knows the circumstances under which we serve Him and commit ourselves to His cause:</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">• He takes note of that Christian who takes the opportunity on a hot summer day to bring people into contact with Jesus Christ.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">• He sees the Christian who sits for hours in a traffic jam because she wants to cheer up a sick sister in the faith by visiting her.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">• He also notices how a believing mother wants to faithfully fulfil the task of caring for her children despite a headache.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">• It does not escape His notice when a servant takes a long drive in the pouring rain to visit a small, lonely group of believers.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In heaven we will realise with amazement that the Lord has taken notice of all these details. It will be a joy for Him to reward the faith that overcame the difficulties with His help. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">The Good Seed.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9506</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 4</span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-25914290758060863072024-01-01T08:00:00.040-05:002024-01-29T08:14:54.181-05:00Gems from January 2024<p><strong style="color: #2e0af7; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;">Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. 1st Peter 5:7</strong></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">A Teacher's Privilege </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">To-day, dear friends, you’re much in my mind,</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">Who start your work to do.</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">What a privilege you have of training the minds</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">Of the children who go to school.</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">There will be days that are hard, </span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">And days that are blue,</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">And days that you hardly know, just what to do,</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">But keep on praying, His Grace is sufficient for you.</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">If for Christ your work is done,</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">Though oft you feel tired and worn,</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">He does know you did not shirk.</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">With care He will watch your work, </span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">For He knows the seed of love </span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">Planted here doth bloom above.</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">Thus, in trust and faith, work on;</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">You will see the fruit at dawn.</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0a0a0a;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Ruby McKenzie</span></span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9443</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask Him.</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Matthew 6:8</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #0b0b0b;">We must not look on that only as prayer to which our lips give utterance. The wish of the believing heart is counted prayer by God. It is the smoke of the incense which ascends in silence before Him. Every wish that the Holy Spirit breathes into the soul of a believer is a voice which enters the ear of God. </span><em><strong><span style="color: #0b0b0b;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Choice Supplication</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0b0b0b;">Prayer is the soul's sincere desire, uttered or unexpressed, </span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0b0b0b;">The motion of a hidden fire that trembles in the breast;</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0b0b0b;">Prayer is the burden of a sigh, the falling of a tear,</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0b0b0b;">The upward glancing of an eye when none but God is near. </span><strong><span style="color: #0b0b0b;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> James Montgomery</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9444</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Verily God hath heard me, He hath attended to the voice of my prayer.</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Psalm 66:19</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #0e0e0f;">A nineteenth-century magazine rebukes the expression, "REMARKABLE answers to prayers," saying we should think it unacceptable if applied to the case of a boy who took sick away from home and sent to his father for help. We would not say, "Remarkably enough, his father assisted him at once." It would certainly be good if we could expect heavenly succour just as surely as the boy would expect an answer from his father — yet there ought to be a thankful awe for every reply.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0e0e0f;">What will He not bestow?</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0e0e0f;">Who freely gave this mighty gift, unbought,</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0e0e0f;">Unmerited, unheeded, and unsought,</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0e0e0f;">What will He not bestow? </span><strong><span style="color: #0e0e0f;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">(Selected)</span></span></strong><span style="color: #0e0e0f;"><br /></span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9445</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forth unto those things which are before.” </strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Philippians 3:13</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">The New Year is not present with us. Only a new day! So it will be continually. We shall see but one day at a time.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">If each day is lived right, the whole year will be right; if each day is wrong, the year will be all wrong.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">Each day is a white page to be written. Write it beautifully, and the year will be beautiful."</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">NEW YEAR PRAYER</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">Lord, Thou hast given me a clean, new year.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">Help me to keep its pages pure, unspoiled;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">To write upon its scroll but kindly thoughts, </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">With no unsightly blots to have it soiled.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">Let me not mar, in thought or word or deed, </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">This page, so white, so pure, unsullied, fair.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">Help me to know that when I stand in need</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">Of help from Thee, Thou art always standing there.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">When duty calls me, Lord, let pleasure wait.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">Let me fulfill my calling. Let Thy will,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">Not mine, be done. Oh, let me ever hear</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">Thy calm, approving voice. Thy guidance still.</span><strong><span style="color: #090909;"> </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">Lead me, dear Lord, in paths of peacefulness.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">But if, perchance, Thy paths should ever lie </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">O’er mountain trails, though they be rough and bleak,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">Then may I answer, “Master, here am I.” </span><em><strong><span style="color: #090909;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">I. S. Ellis</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: #090909;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">An artist who was asked, ”What is your best picture?” answered, “My next.”</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: #090909;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Make tomorrow your best day</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;">!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9446</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed. Hebrews 12:13</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">THE BRIDGE BUILDER</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">An old man, going a lone highway,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">Came at the evening, cold and gray, </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">To a chasm vast and deep and wide, </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">Through which was flowing a raging tide.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">The old man crossed in the twilight dim;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">The sullen stream had no fears for him;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">But he turned when safe on the other side, </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">And built a bridge to span the tide.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">“Old man,” said a fellow-pilgrim near, </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">“You are wasting your strength with building here; </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">Your journey will end with the closing day;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">You never again will pass this way.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">You've crossed the chasm deep and wide.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">Why build you this bridge at eventide?” </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">The builder lifted his old gray head.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">“Good friend, in the path I have come,” he said,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">“There follows after me today</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">A youth whose feet must pass this way.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">This chasm which has been as naught to me, </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">To that fair-haired youth may a pitfall be;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">He, too, must cross in the twilight dim;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">Good friend, I am building this bridge for him." </span><em><strong><span style="color: #090909;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Mountain Trailways</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9447</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">For I the Lord thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, fear not; I will help thee. Isaiah 41:13</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #040404;">Dr. S. D. Gordon once wrote: "Our Lord has been everywhere that we are called to go. His feet have trodden down smooth a path through every experience that comes to us. He knows each road, and knows it well-the steep path of temptation down through the rocky ravines and slippery gullies, the dizzy road along the heights of victory, the old beaten road of commonplace daily routine."</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #040404;">I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #040404;">"Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown."</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #040404;">And he replied,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #040404;">"Go out into the darkness and put your hand</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #040404;">Into the hand of God;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #040404;">That shall be to you better than light </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #040404;">and safer than a known way." </span><em><strong><span style="color: #040404;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">M. Louise Haskins.</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #040404;"><span style="font-size: 11px;">(Quoted by His Majesty the King in an Empire broadcast.)</span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9448</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>“None of these things move me.” Acts 20:24</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">We read in the book of Samuel that the moment that David was crowned at Hebron,</span><strong><span style="color: black;"> </span>“All the Philistines came to seek David.” (2 Samuel 5:17) </strong><span style="color: black;">And the moment we get anything from the Lord worth contending for, then the devil comes to seek us.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">When the enemy meets us at the threshold of any great work for God, let us accept it as </span><strong><span style="color: #110ff8;">“a token of salvation,” (Philippians 1:28)</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> and claim double blessing, victory, and power. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Power is developed by resistance. The cannon carries twice as far because the exploding power has to find its way through resistance. the way electricity is produced in the power house yonder is by the sharp friction of the revolving wheels. And so we shall find someday that even Satan has been one of God’s agencies for blessing.— </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">Days of Heaven Upon the Earth </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: black;">A hero is not fed on sweets,</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: black;">Daily his own heart he eats;</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: black;">Chambers of the great are jails,</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: black;">And head winds right for royal sales.</span></em> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"> </span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Emerson</span></span><span style="font-size: 13px;"> </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9449</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Teach me, O Lord, the way of Thy statutes . . . Give me understanding . . .make me to go in the path of Thy commandments. Psalm 119:33-35</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Another year is dawning! Dear Master, let it be,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">In working or in waiting, another year with Thee.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Another year of leaning; upon Thy loving breast,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Of ever-deepening trustfulness—of quiet, happy rest.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Another year of mercies, of faithfulness and grace;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Another year of gladness in the shining of Thy face.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Another year of progress; another year of praise;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Another year of proving Thy presence “all the days.”</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Another year of service, of witness for Thy love;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Another year of training for holier work above.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Another year is dawning! Dear Master, let it be,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">On earth, or else in heaven, another year for Thee</span>! </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Francis Ridley Havergal </span></span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9450</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #5008f8;">And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give; them light; to go by day and night. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #5008f8;">Exodus 13:21</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Guided By The PiIlars of God</span> </strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">What is of importance to notice here is that the people of Israel were divinely guided on their march. He who selected their path guided them in it, went before them in the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night, in all their wanderings. These gracious symbols of His presence He never took from them as long as they were in the wilderness.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">This is only an illustration of the truth, that the Lord is ever the guide of His people. He who leads them out of Egypt may ever be seen before them in the path on which they have entered. He never says, “Go”; but His word is always “Follow Me.” He Himself is the Way, as well as the Truth and the Life. <strong><span style="color: #201df0;">(John 14:6)</span></strong>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It is quite true that we have not the visible guidance which the children of Israel enjoyed; but it is no less discernible and certain to the spiritual eye. The Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path <strong><span style="color: #1c10ef;">(Psalm 119:105)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It is interesting to remark that there was no such guidance in Egypt or in the land. This brings out the important truth, that it is only in the wilderness that the indication of a way is needed. And there it is in His tenderness and mercy that the Lord leads His own, showing them the way in which they should walk, where they should rest, and when they should march, leaving nothing to them, but Himself undertaking all for them, only requiring that their eyes should be kept fixed on their Guide.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Happy are the people who are thus lead, and who are made willing to follow, who by grace are enabled to say, “Only Thou our Leader be, and we still will follow Thee.” <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Edward Dennett</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9451</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before. (Philippians 3:12-13)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Now we are nearing the end of the race: the prize is in view: </span><strong><span style="color: #0f16ef;">“I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” (V.14)</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> Before we look at the prize, we must consider the </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;">calling</span></strong></em><span style="color: black;">. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">- We are </span><strong><span style="color: #0a16ec;">”Called ones of Christ Jesus” (Romans 1:6)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">- We are </span><strong><span style="color: #2816f9;">“called saints,”</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> or </span><strong><span style="color: #1a07f3;">“saints by calling.” (Romans 1:7)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">- It is a </span><strong><span style="color: #1d10fc;">“holy calling” (2 Timothy 1:9)</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">- it is a </span><strong><span style="color: #1c0ff0;">“heavenly calling.” (Hebrews 3:1)</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">- Paul prays we should </span><strong><span style="color: #2711f1;">“know what is the hope of His calling.” (Ephesians 1:18)</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">- It is a </span><strong><span style="color: #190cf7;">“calling of God . . . not subject to repentance.” (Romans 11:29)</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">- We are exhorted </span><strong><span style="color: #1618f5;">“to walk worthy of the calling wherewith ye have been called.” (Ephesians 4:1) </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">What, then, does it mean,—</span><strong><span style="color: #2810f7;">”the calling on high of God in Christ Jesus“?</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> When, as a child, I ran in the Hundred Yard Dash, I might have said: “Down to the goal I press for the prize of The Hundred Yard Dash.” “The Hundred Yard dash” described the race l was running. So the “the calling on high” describes the race Paul was running. It is the calling which bears the character of the world above . . . the calling whose origin, nature, and goal are heavenly.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">And what is the prize that Paul so valued: </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Run the straight race, through God’s good grace,</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Lift up thine eyes, and seek His face.</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Life, with its way, before us lies,</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">CHRIST is the Path and CHRIST the prize.</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">The prize for the winner of the Marathon was a crown of leaves,—a fading crown: but our Prize is an unfading one.</span></span><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"> </span></span><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">(1 Peter 5:4)</span></span></strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"> </span></span></em><span style="color: black;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Philippians - G. Christopher Willis </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9452</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2519f2;">"As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:9 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">I read this story long ago - here's the way I remember it.There was a man whose wife and children were all saved, but he was not, and he had little interest in spiritual things, though he had heard the gospel.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">One snowy Christmas Eve his family asked him, as they often had, did he want to go with them to the service. He declined. While they were gone, he heard a thump against a window. Looking out, he saw a little bird, injured by the crash, struggling in the snow. The man felt compassion for it, went outside to rescue it, but, as expected, it tried to get away. Nevertheless, he was able to pick it up; and he brought it into the warm house.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">As he cared for the helpless little bird, it suddenly dawned on him —he was like that little bird. He had long been in need of being saved but had resisted. He realized, for the first time, how God had wanted to rescue him and save him. His heart was broken. He surrendered to the Lord.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">When the family returned home, they found a tearfully joyous husband and father who had finally joined them in being new creations in Christ Jesus. God used a little, wounded bird to awaken him to his need.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Dear friend, God knew the way to reach that man's heart; He knows how to reach yours too. If you, like that man, have been resisting God's loving entreaties, won't you surrender today? </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2519f2;">"This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners..." (1 Timothy 1:15) </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="font-size: 15px;">Only a step to Jesus: oh why not take it now? L.I.F.E.LINES</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9453</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0c23f4;">...the person of Christ. 2 Corinthians 2:10</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">The person of the Christ, </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Enfolding every grace,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Once slain, but now alive again, </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">In heaven demands our praise.</span></strong></em> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Miss Wigram</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">First, the hymn-writer declares the scope of the expression; The Person of the Christ, encompassing every one of the graces revealed to us in the character, work and glory of our Lord and Saviour. Then the writer goes on to address the two facts central to the Gospel: the <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">death</span> and <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">resurrection</span> of the Lord Jesus. And finally, the Lord is seen as back in Heaven and He will be there eternally. A song of praise has begun in the hearts of the redeemed now, and will be sung perfectly when we are with Him.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Although not stated in the hymn, <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">His love</span>, and that of God, are felt by believers every day. It takes in (1) the very beginnings of our blessings, part of God's plan from a past eternity, (2) the reality experienced during our lives on earth as believers, and (3) its continuation forever. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Meditating on our Lord - We could go on down a long list of the attributes of our Lord, and it is a worthwhile subject for personal meditation. This short document doesn't allow room for such a full exploration, but you only have to read through the four Gospels to see His qualities played out in love, kindness, mercy, sympathy and grace, as the Lord Jesus interacted with people of the world, who were not unlike us in our needs, attitudes and relative insensitivity. Hebrews 1:3 speaks of the Lord Jesus being the brightness of God's glory, and the precise image of God's persona. This a wonderful confirmation of all that The Person of Christ stands for. The more our thoughts take in the whole Person of Christ, the more we will want to live as a reflection of His life. And this will lead to more praise and worship, to the glory of God. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0f16ee;">Hebrews 2:9: “But we see Jesus, who was made a little lower than the angels for the suffering of death, crowned with glory and honour; that He by the grace of God should taste death for every man.” </span></strong><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lorne Perry</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9454</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #5008f8;">The coming of the Lord draweth nigh. James 5:8<br /></span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Early 2023, we wrote: "The new year is well under way; the first month already behind us! What do the next ones have in store for us? The bad news from previous months is still haunting us and the horizon seems all the more uncertain. Stability and peace do not appear in the forecast". </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">What about the start of 2024? To the enduring Ukraine/Russia conflict now is added the terrible Israël/Hamas war. This new element perfectly matches the Bible prophecies concerning the last days where Israel is central. And what about the accelerating moral decline and confusion of the West, even upheld by it's leaders? We must be on the very edge of the Great Tribulation described in the Bible.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Be not deceived, God is in control and will work all things out according to His counsel and purpose, according to His final solution. <strong><span style="color: #200ef4;">"But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say, <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Peace and safety</span>; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape" (1 Thessalonians 5:1-3)</span></strong>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">When men will say <strong><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Peace and safety</span></strong>, that will surely be after a time of trouble and great concern and instability such as we are now facing. The solution then proposed and accepted by the majority will lead to the forceful imposing of the system of the Beast described in chapter 13 of the book of Revelation in the Bible. But as the Word of God indicates, that will be a sign of sudden judgment and ruin!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>The Perspective of Faith</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The plan of God is to establish His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, as the supreme ruler over this world and establish a thousand year reign of peace and righteousness. This unequaled period of peace will be followed by an eternal new creation where righteousness will dwell <strong><span style="color: #200ef4;">(2 Peter 3:13)</span></strong>. All the details pertaining to this are given in the Bible, the Word of God. Everything predicted in it about the past has been fulfilled exactly as prophesied; we are persuaded that the same applies to future events God has told us about. We send out this message to challenge the reader to inquire, to search, to be attentive and believe what god has given us to know in His Word.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The past year was full of upheavals; the coming months seem to predict even more tragic developments, polarizing the masses. It is urgent to seek the Lord, time is running out. God in His patience is waiting for the last ones. He sent His Son into the world for the world to be saved by Him. Those who have put their trust in Him will not be condemned; but those who reject Him or neglect to trust Him will. For these there is no mercy or grace for they have refused the wonderful offer of God. Be not part of those who reject and will experience the forewarned sudden destruction. Trust in the Lord Jesus now, accepting Him as your Saviour. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">World leaders propose various paths to peace and safety that will never come to pass; those of God will surely come to pass and exactly as He has said. The final solution can only be the coming of the Lord Jesus and the establishment of His rule over this world. Turn to Him now without delay! God offers only one route to peace and safety; through His Son who died to prepare the way. <em><strong> <span style="font-size: 13px;">Michel for Vision 2020 in 2024</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #200ef4;">"Neither is there salvation in any other." (Acts 4:12).</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9455</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1205f5;">The Comforter...the Spirit of truth … He shall testify of Me. (John 15:26.)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Does it really matter in a practical sense whether the Holy Spirit is a person, a power, or an influence? Yes! How one thinks of Him changes everything for one's practical life. If He is only a power that works in me, I can make and carry out plans availing myself of this power. However, if this is a divine Person who dwells in me, then it should be He who makes the plans and carries them out. I am not to be the worker then, but merely an instrument that He may use for whatsoever He will.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And is there not an enormous difference between a creature such as I, on the one hand, wanting to lay hold of God to use Him for my purpose, and, on the other hand, the Almighty God condescending to use me to carry out His will? The first concept leads to an overestimation of self and to acting in self-will. The second leads to humility and dependence, but also to the glorious assurance of being in the ways of God and of having His approval.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">A person is a living being that is conscious of its existence and that consciously thinks, wills, and acts. This is what Scripture teaches about the Holy Spirit:</p><ol style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><li style="margin-left: 15px;"><p style="direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">He loves (Rom. 15:30);</p></li><li style="margin-left: 15px;"><p style="direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">He has a mind and intercedes for us (Rom. 8:26-27);</p></li><li style="margin-left: 15px;"><p style="direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">He searches, knows, instructs, and convicts (1 Cor. 2:10-11; Neh. 9:20; In.</p></li></ol><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">16:8,13);</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">4. He has a sovereign will (1 Cor. 12:11; Acts 13:2);</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">5. He can be grieved (Eph. 4:30; Isa. 63:10)</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">6. He can be insulted (Heb. 10:29); </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">7.He can be lied to (Acts 5:3). Further-more, Scripture says (Acts 5:3-4) that the Holy Spirit is God.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Thus, the Holy Spirit is not only a person—He is a divine Person. He is God the Holy Spirit! <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">H. L. Heijkoop</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9456</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>THE BLESSEDNESS OF CHRISTLIKENESS</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #090cf8;">"Now thanks be unto God, which always causes us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of His knowledge by us in every place." </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #090cf8;">2 Corinthians 2. I4.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The supreme witness for God in this world is the one whose life is Christlike in spirit and conduct. "To be like Christ," says Henry Drummond "compared with that, every ambition is folly, and all lower achievement vain." Just as glass may be considered as brilliantly beautiful until we see the fascinating radiance of a diamond, so, when we behold our all-glorious Lord, we are ready to cry out with one of old : <strong><span style="color: #090cf8;">"He is altogether lovely"</span></strong> <strong><span style="color: #090cf8;">Song of Solomon 5:16.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">"No mortal can with Him compare,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Among the sons of men;</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Fairer is He than all the fair, </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">That fill the heavenly train.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In Mark 3:I4 it is said that the Lord Jesus ordained twelve, that they should be with Him, and that He might send them forth to preach; and in Acts 4.13 we have an illustration of the effects of that. The officers took knowledge of Peter and John that they had been with Jesus, because these two men of God carried with them the fragrance of the One in Whose presence they had been dwelling.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">For us to-day who have not access to His physical presence, the whole secret is enshrined in a word which occurs three times in the New Testament; the word metamorphoomai. This word is found in Matthew 17. 2, where it is translated " transfigured "; in Romans 12. 2, where it is rendered "transformed "; and in 2 Corinthians 3. 18, where it appears as "changed". The first of these occurrences shows the pattern <em><strong>to</strong></em> which; the second, the principle <em><strong>upon</strong></em> which; and the third, the power <em><strong>by</strong></em> which, we are transformed." </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #090cf8;">“We all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">changed</span> into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord"</span></strong> <strong><span style="color: #090cf8;">2 Corinthians 3:18).</span></strong> The transformation produces the fragrance. Samuel Rutherford prayed that the Rose of Sharon growing in his heart, might shed its fragrance abroad in his life; and wherever he went, he scattered abroad the perfume of the knowledge of God. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;"> Henry Durbanville</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9457</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1a25e6;">“Adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.” Titus 2:10 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Dr Watkinson says: “There is a piece of music spread out before me. I am told it is magnificent, but as I do not know anything about music I cannot read it; I simply believe what I am told, namely, that it is a beautiful piece of music. But I hand it to someone who can play. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The musician sits at the organ, and with his eyes upon the page sweeps the keys with his fingers. That musician is not making the music: he is not the composer; but he is adorning the music by interpreting it to me so that I can understand it.” The men and women whose lives are filled with good works are the most practical exponents and interpreters of the music of the gospel message; for they apply the spiritual blessings and material benefits of the Evangel to the needs and circumstances of the hour. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Thus, Florence Nightingale, spending and being spent on behalf of the soldiers amid the rigours of the Crimea; Mary Slessor, wearing herself out in loving-hearted service to the benighted Africans; Mary Reed, giving her life to the lepers of India, and eventually dying among them, herself a leper: these noble women, impelled to their sacred tasks by a yearning pity for mankind, the burning charity divine, are among the choicest of the gifts with which God has blessed and enriched our poor world. They adorn the gospel, and were themselves adorned by it <strong><span style="color: #0e1bf3;">(1 Timothy 2:9-10)</span></strong><span style="color: #0e1bf3;">.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It was in this way that many of the early pagans were won for our Lord. When maligned and persecuted, the Christians did not retaliate, but laid before their persecutors the unanswerable argument of kindly deeds <strong><span style="color: #3714e6;">(1 Peter 2:12)</span></strong>. “In the deed,” says Cowper, “the unequivocal authentic deed, we find the true argument, we read the heart.” <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Winsome Christianity</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9458</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #5008f8;">If any man will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me. Luke 9:23</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;">Byways</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Long ago I read these words of George Herbert:</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">“Who goeth in the way which Christ hath gone, is much more sure to meet with Him, than one that traveleth byways.”</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Are we going in the way which Christ has gone, or are we only talking and praying and singing about it? What about likes and dislikes?</span><em><span style="color: black;">What about choices? What about Self?</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Christ’s way is the way that says</span><em><span style="color: black;"> “No” </span></em><span style="color: black;">to the </span><em><span style="color: black;">“I” </span></em><span style="color: black;">that rises up so often and in many different disguises. “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself [say “No” to himself], and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” A “by-way” is any other way, any easier way, any self-pleasing way. We shall not meet Christ if we travel in a byway. </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Thou Givest . . . They Gather - Amy Carmichael</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9459</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. Philippians 4:8</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">There are not so many hours in a year as there may be thoughts in an hour. Thoughts fly in flocks like starlings, and swarm like bees. Like the dry leaves in autumn, there is no counting them and like the links in a chain, one draws on another. What a restless being man is! </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">His thoughts dance up and down like small flies on a summer’s evening. Like a clock full of wheels, with the pendulum in full swing, his mind moves as fast as time flies. This makes thinking such an important business, <strong><span style="color: #2a0ef4;">“For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he” (Proverbs 23:7)</span></strong>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">We ought to mind our thoughts, for if they turn to be our enemies they will be too many for us and will drag us down to ruin. Thoughts from heaven, like birds in spring, will fill our souls with music; but thoughts of evil will sting us like vipers.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">There is a notion abroad that thought is free; but I remember reading that although thoughts are toll-free, they are not hell-free; and that saying quite agrees with the Bible. We cannot be summoned before an earthly court for thinking, but depend upon it, we shall have to be tried for it at the Bar of God. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Evil thoughts are the marrow of sin; the malt that sin is brewed from; the tinder which catches the sparks of the devil’s temptations; the churn in which the milk of imagination is churned into purpose and plan; the nest in which all evil birds lay their eggs. Be certain, then. that as sure as fire burns brushwood as well as logs, <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">God will punish thoughts of sin as well as deeds of sin</span>. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">C. H. Spurgeon</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9460</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">- <strong><span style="color: #1a25e6;">But they cried saying crucify Him, crucify Him . . . Luke 23:21</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1a25e6;">- And Pilate gave sentence that it should be as they required . . . (v.24)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1a25e6;">- And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified Him . . . (v.33)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1a25e6;">- Then said Jesus, Father forgive them; for they know not what they do. (v.34)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1a25e6;">- And 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. (v.46)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">On that same night, Lord Jesus, when all around Thee joined</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">To cast its darkest shadow across Thy holy mind,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">We hear Thy voice, blest Saviour, “This do remember Me:”</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">With joyful hearts responding, we do remember Thee.</span><strong><span style="color: #1a25e6;"> </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The depth of all Thy suffering no heart could e’er conceive;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The cup of wrath o’er flowing for us Thou didst receive; </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">And, oh! of God forsaken, on the accursèd tree.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">With grateful hearts, Lord Jesus, we now remember Thee. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">We think of all the darkness which round Thy spirit pressed, </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Of all those waves and billows which rolled across Thy breast. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Oh, there Thy grace unbounded and perfect love we see; </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">With joy and sorrow mingling, we would remember Thee. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">G. W. Frazer </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> N.J.Hiebert — 9461</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1a25e6;">Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God. 1 Corinthians 10:31</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">As a boy I worked for a Scottish shoemaker named Dan Mackay, a forthright Christian. It was my responsibility to pound leather for shoe soles. A piece of cow hide would be cut to suit, then soaked in water. I had a piece of iron over my knees and, with a flat-headed hammer, I pounded these soles until they were hard and dry. It seemed an endless operation, and I wearied of it many times. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">What made my task worse was the fact that, a block away, there was another shop, and in it sat a jolly, godless cobbler who regaled the neighbourhood with lewd tales that made him dreaded by respectable parents. Yet, somehow, he seemed to thrive. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">I noticed that he never pounded the soles at all, but took them from the water and nailed them on, with the water splashing from them as he drove each nail in. One day I ventured inside. Timidly, I said, “I notice you put the soles on while still wet. Are they just as good as if they were pounded?” He gave me a wicked leer as he answered, “They come back all the quicker this way, my boy!”</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Feeling I had learned something, I related the instance to my boss. Mr. Mackay stopped his work and opened his Bible to the passage that reads,</span><strong><span style="color: #2913f0;">”Whatsoever you do, do all to the glory of God.”</span></strong><span style="color: black;">“Harry,” he said, “I do not cobble shoes just for the money I get from my customers. I am doing this for the glory of God. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">I expect to see every shoe I have ever repaired in a big pile at the judgment seat of Christ, and I do not want the Lord to say to me in that day, ‘Dan, this was a poor job.’ I want Him to be able to say,</span><strong><span style="color: #2009f1;">’well done, good and faithful servant.’ (Matthew 25:21)</span></strong><span style="color: black;">” He went on to explain that just as some men are called to preach, so he was called to fix shoes, and only as he did this well would his testimony count for God. Colossians 3:23-25) </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">H. A. Ironside</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9462</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1311ea;">Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">THE AUTHOR OF SALVATION </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The whole of His saving work is warranted in the light of His own worthiness. His holiness and honour stand highest in heaven. The salvation Christ accomplished does not depend on human behaviour but on the beloved Saviour Himself, for <strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">"He became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him" (Heb. 5:9)</span></strong>. Nor does this speak of a transient deliverance from temporal troubles and trivialities, but of deliverance from the domain of the Devil and from the dominion of sin and death forever. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Therefore, we can safely say that His will determined the purpose, His wisdom planned it, His work wrought it, and His own Word declared it finished. The perfect suitability of His precious blood for propitiation supplies a permanent basis for the peace of salvation. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Charles J. Rolls</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Great Captain of salvation, </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Now crowned with highest glory,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Joyful we raise, </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Our songs of praise, </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">And lowly bow before Thee;</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">We worship and adore Thee, </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Each heart and tongue confessing, </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Worthy to reign, </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">The Lamb once slain, </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Of honour, power, and blessing.</span></strong> <strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">J.G. Deck</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9463</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1a25e6;">Yet in the church I had rather speak five words with my understanding, that by my voice I might teach others also, than ten thousand words in an unknown tongue. 1 Corinthians 14:19</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1a25e6;"></span><span style="color: #0c0c0c;">FIVE WORDS</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #0c0c0c;">How important for all speakers to remember this! We know that tongues had their value. They were for a sign to the unbelieving. The grand end of speaking in the assembly is edification, and this end can only be reached when people understand what is said. It is impossible for a man to edify me if I cannot understand what he</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #0c0c0c;">says. He must speak in an intelligible language and in an audible voice, else I cannot receive any edification. This surely is plain and worthy of the serious attention of all who speak in public.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #0c0c0c;">Further, we would do well to bear in mind that our only warrant for standing up to speak in the assembly is that the Lord Himself has given us something to say. If it be but "five words," let us say the five and sit down. Nothing can be more unintelligent than for a man to attempt to speak ten thousand words when God has only given him five. It is regretful that something like this should so often occur! What a mercy it would be if we could only keep within our measure! That measure may be small. It matters not; let us be simple, earnest, and real. <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">An earnest heart is better than a clever head</span>. A fervent spirit is better than an eloquent tongue. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #0c0c0c;">Where there is a genuine, hearty desire to promote the good of souls, it will prove more effective with me and more acceptable to God than the most brilliant gifts without it. We should covet earnestly the best gifts, but we should also remember the "more excellent way," even the way of love that ever hides itself and seeks only the profit of others. It is not that we value gifts less, but we value love more.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: #0c0c0c;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">C. H. Mackintosh</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0c0c0c;">May the love of Jesus fill me, as the waters fill the sea;</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0c0c0c;">Him exalting, self abasing, this is victory. </span><strong><span style="color: #0c0c0c;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">K. B. Wilkinson</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9464</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1e0de1;">Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:2</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Grace means “Free, undeserved favour.” And, Thanks be to God, that is just what God has shown us; and this is the message with which this lovely Epistle begins. But let us remember it is Grace, not from <em><strong>pity</strong></em>, but from <em><strong>Love</strong></em>. I write in Hong Kong, surrounded by tens of thousands of refugees in the most desperate poverty, misery, and squalor: daily I see the children in their rags and wretchedness, and my heart is moved with pity, and I seek to do what little I can to remove their misery.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In a measure I show them Grace, for they do nothing to deserve help. But it is Grace moved by <em><strong>pity</strong></em>. But there are a few whom I dearly love, what a difference that makes! A few days ago a dear child we have known and loved for several years, showed me the soles of her shoes, without saying a word: both had great holes right through to her bare feet. I got her new shoes, and at the same time a pretty new dress, for I think she had only the shabby one she had on: I paid about ninety cents for it.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">When I gave them to her, she climbed on my knee, buried her head on my shoulder, her heart too full for words: and then at last she looked up with wonder, saying: “Mr. Lee, you must have paid a great deal for it!” It was grace, but grace moved by Love, and who can say whose pleasure was greater, the Child’s or mine? Let us ponder the love behind the words “GRACE TO YOU,” and let us remember always the unfathomable cost. May our hearts respond, not with any formal thanks, but like the Child, may our hearts burst forth: “THANKS BE UNTO GOD FOR HIS UNSPEAKABLE GIFT ! ! !”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Sacrifices of Joy Being Meditations of Philippians - G. Christopher Willis</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9465</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1e0de1;">He maketh the storm a calm, so that the waves thereof are still. Psalm 107:29</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">We are well into the season of stormy weather; storms of rain, sleet, hail, snow, wind. Other parts of the world experience hurricanes, typhoons, dust and sand storms and more. We just hunker down and wait for it to blow over. And afterwards the sun comes out.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Then there are other kinds of “storms” in our lives; such as depression, anxiety, disappointments, health issues, accidents, fires, floods and so on. Again, we live through them and pray they’ll soon be in the past.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Many will acknowledge that God is in overall control and allows these things as tests of our faith, or to bring us to the realization that some things are beyond us to manage, however smart we may be. Some ascribe such events as “everything is against me” or “its just nature taking its course” or “fate is what life throws at you”. These are an attempt to exclude God’s role in the overall destiny of the world and</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">mankind.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>But God</strong>…</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Actually, God’s holy word, the Bible, does not allow for any interpretation of personal disaster, except that it is in the will of God. In <strong><span style="color: #1e0de1;">Genesis 6:5</span></strong>, God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, so He unleashed a great rainstorm that drowned every sinful person, BUT GOD spared faithful <strong>Noah and his family</strong>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Genesis 7: 23 to Genesis 8:23: and Noah only remained alive, and they that were with him in the ark.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And the waters prevailed upon the earth an hundred and fifty days. <strong><span style="color: #1e0de1;">Genesis 8:1</span></strong>: AND GOD remembered Noah. <strong><span style="color: #1e0de1;">Romans 6:23: For the wages of sin is death, BUT the gift of GOD is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord</span></strong>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Believers are under God’s care but not immune from troubles. <strong><span style="color: #1e0de1;">1 Corinthians 10:13 says: There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man, BUT GOD is faithful who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able</span></strong>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">These verses emphasize that, while God allows the difficulties that come into the lives of believers, whether physical or spiritual, He provides what it takes to ride out the storm, as long as we simply trust in Him and rely on His Word. The Lord has sent His Comforter, the Holy Spirit to dwell in each believer and He becomes our welcome resource in time of trouble. The Lord said in <strong><span style="color: #1e0de1;">John 14:16</span></strong>: And I will pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you forever.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">We can pray for the storm to end, but God is always in control and has perfect timing.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1e0de1;">Psalm 18:30: As for God, His way is perfect. And in verse 32: God....maketh my way perfect.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Lorne Perry</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9466</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1e0de1;">Comfort ye, comfort ye My people, saith your God. Isaiah 40:1</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">THE DIVINE COMFORTER</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">God means to comfort His people, but in doing so He has to bring before them very definitely their true condition in His sight; and then He shows His remedy. The first part of this message may not sound very comforting, and yet God must begin that way. God wounds that He may heal; He kills that He may make alive. We never know Him in the fullness of His power to sustain and comfort until we have come to the end of our own resources. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">In His gracious ministry of comfort, God always begins by showing us our need and our dependence upon His omnipotent power. In Isaiah 40, He says to the prophet,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">"Comfort My people,” and then proceeds to instruct the servant as to the character of the message.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The voice said, "Cry." Isaiah asked, " What shall I cry?" The answer was, “All flesh is grass, and all the goodliness thereof is as the flower of the field:(v. 6). This is ever the divine order. It is not until we realize our own utter nothingness and helplessness that we are in a position to avail ourselves of the comfort which the Lord waits to give.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">In the New Testament we see each Person of the blessed Trinity engaged in this ministry of comfort. God the Father is called “the God of all comfort" (2 Cor. 1:3). </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">God the Holy Spirit is spoken of four times in our Lord's last discourse to His disciples as "the Comforter" (Jn. 14:16, 26; 15:26; 16:7). One character of our Lord's </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">work and ministry is "to comfort all who mourn" (Isa. 61:2). He is also called our Advocate with the Father" (1John 2:1). The word for "Advocate" is exactly the same in the Greek as that for "Comforter" in John's Gospel. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">How blessed to be in fellowship with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, so that one can enter into and enjoy the comfort God delights to give! </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> H. A. Ironside</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9467</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1a25e6;">And no man could bind him, no, not with chains: because that he had been often bound with fetters and the chains, had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces; neither could any man tame him. And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones. Mark 5:3-5</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">THE GADARENE </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">"No man was able to bind him." Measures have been taken everywhere to "bind" the worst effects of sin on man, and there are prisons in many places to keep the worst offenders away from human society. But generally speaking, it doesn't work. As soon as people get out of prison they are still lost sinners—unless they have met the</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Saviour in prison.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">No one was strong enough to subdue him. Man has tried to subdue or to "cultivate" sin by education, philosophy, theology, religion, and all kinds of other efforts to make human sinfulness look less ugly. Or man has tried to change his value system so that</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">behaviour, attitudes, and lifestyles that were considered sinful in the past are no longer considered so, but are now accepted behaviour. All this does not change man, nor does it change God's perspective. Nor does it change the effect that sin has on man: he is still in bondage.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">He was crying. Very often in Scripture crying or shouting is mentioned in connection with the activities of Satan. During the Lord's trial on earth we read, "They kept on crying out, saying, </span><strong><span style="color: #1a25e6;">“Crucify, crucify Him!'" (Lk. 23:21)</span></strong><span style="color: black;">. Or consider Paul's case: "Some therefore cried one thing and some another: for the assembly was confused. </span><strong><span style="color: #1a25e6;">(Acts 19:32)</span></strong><span style="color: black;">. Satan is the originator of noise and confusion — past and present. The Lord Jesus, as the servant of God in the Book of the prophet Isaiah, acts just the opposite: </span><strong><span style="color: #1a25e6;">"He shall not cry, nor lift up, nor cause His voice to be heard in the street. (Isaiah 42:2).</span></strong><span style="color: black;">What a contrast! </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Michael Vogelsang</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9468</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">But ye are not in the flesh but in the Spirit.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">Romans 8:9</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">THE BELIEVER'S UNION WITH CHRIST</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The believer is not in the flesh, but in the Spirit; he is in Christ; he has died out of his old Adam standing in the death of Jesus, and has been quickened, raised up, and seated in heavenly places in Christ Jesus. He has been born of the Spirit, and is indwelt by the Spirit. He has been brought out and brought in. Hence Scripture speaks of us as </span><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">"accepted in the Beloved," "complete in Him," "preserved in Christ Jesus," </span></strong><span style="color: black;">and </span><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">"sanctified in Christ Jesus."</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">We are a new creation in Him who is Head of all principality and power, are always before God in Christ, in all His acceptability and nearness, and loved by the Father as He loved the Son. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">This is where redemption has brought us, where divine, perfect love has set us; so </span><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">“that we may have boldness in the day of judgment, because as He is, so are we in this world” (1Jn. 4:17)</span></strong><span style="color: black;">. We have died unto sin, died with Christ, and are alive unto God in Him. Having received remission of sins, we are united to Christ by the Holy Spirit, joined to the Lord—one spirit </span><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">(1Cor. 6:17)</span></strong><span style="color: black;">. This is a man in Christ.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">"We were in the flesh,"</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> </span><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">(Romans 7:5) </span></strong><span style="color: black;">but having died with Christ, and risen with Him, we have eternal life in Him, and are united to Him by the Spirit. Oh the marvellous depths and heights of divine grace! Its depths, in embracing us when in our sins and guilt, exposed to the wrath of God; and its heights, in bringing us to God in Christ for everlasting blessing.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Those who have not received this truth may be trying to work themselves into nearness to God-and be always disappointed - instead of taking, in simple faith, the nearness and acceptance in Christ which His own grace has given us. </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> H. H. Snell</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9469</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and He shall</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">sustain thee. . . (Psa.55:22).</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Burdens</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The story is told of two young Christian men who lived many, many years ago. They were walking from their small village through the countryside, heading towards another village where they planned to earn some money helping with the fall harvesting of crops. As they walked, they came to a wide river. There was no bridge in that particular location but since the river was shallow, people who needed to</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">cross at that place often waded through the water. The two young men decided to do the same thing.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">When they came to the river they saw an elderly woman sitting at the edge of the water. She had come from the village with a bundle of food and some other supplies. She was quite downcast because since there was no bridge, with the weight of her burdens, she was now afraid to try to wade back across the river, fearing she would lose her balance.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The first young man kindly spoke to her. "We will be glad to carry you across with your bundle, if you would like us to do that."</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The old lady was very grateful. "Oh, thank you so much" she said.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">"I would very much appreciate your help”. The two young men joined hands together and carefully lifted the elderly woman and her bundle between them. They slowly walked through the river, carrying her to the other side. They put her down on the opposite shore and she heartily thanked them as she continued on her journey.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">After the two had walked about a mile, the second young man began to complain. "Look at my shoes and pants" he said. "They are wet and stained from carrying that woman across the river. Besides, my back is very stiff and hurts from lifting her."</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The first young man just smiled and nodded.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">After 4 more miles the second man began to complain again. "My back is really hurting—all because we had to carry that silly old woman across the river! I can't continue" he said as he lay down moaning.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The first man looked at him and asked; "Do you wonder why I'm not complaining? Your back hurts because you're still carrying that woman. I set her down five miles ago.” <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Doug Nicolet, The Christian Shepherd (December 2013)</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J Hiebert—9470</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 28</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1a25e6;">Call unto Me and I will answer Thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not. Jeremiah 33:3</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">There is an eye that never sleeps beneath the wing of night; </span><span style="color: black;">There is an ear that never shuts when sink the beams of light.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">There is an arm that never tires when human strength gives way; </span><span style="color: black;">There is a love that never fails when earthly loves decay.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">That eye is fixed on seraph throngs; that arm upholds the sky; </span><span style="color: black;">That ear is filled with angel songs; that love is throned on high.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">But there’s a power which man can wield when mortal aid is vain, </span><span style="color: black;">That eye, that arm, that love to reach, that listening ear to gain.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">That power is prayer</span>, which soars on high, through Jesus, to the throne, </span><span style="color: black;">And moves the hand which moves the world to bring salvation down.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">James Cowden Wallace</span></span><span style="color: #1a25e6;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9471</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">THE GOOD SHEPHERD </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">The Lord is my Shepherd: I shall not want. Psalm 23:1 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">I am the good Shepherd: the good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep. John 10:11</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">I know my own Good Shepherd; He knows I am His own. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">He gives me His protection; I’m never left alone.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">No stranger’s voice beguiling shall lure me from His care;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">No promised greener pastures tempt me to follow there.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">My Shepherd goes before me to lead me in the way;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">Staying in His voice-range I’ll never go astray;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">But should I lose my footing, fall to a ledge below,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">A cry will bring Him to me to rescue me, I know.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">I am of the other “sheep” who knew Him not of old;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">Yet He softly called my name and brought me to His fold.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">He’s gone with love so tender, a safe place to prepare;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">All His sheep and “other sheep” shall soon be gathered there!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">None of His shall be left out; He’ll name them, one by one;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">No skulking wolf can enter, so well the work He’s done.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">His Father knows and loves us, sent His Son to be the Door;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">Safely we may come and go, our Shepherd guarding o’er.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">No eyes ever yet beheld such pastures green and fair</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">As those to which He’ll lead us when He calls us to the air!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">His scattered sheep, all gathered, shall wander off no more;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">Slain for His sheep, our Shepherd forever we’ll adore!</span><strong><span style="color: #4d4d4d;"> </span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: #4d4d4d;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Elizabeth Byland</span></span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: #4d4d4d;"></span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">N.J.Hiebert - 9472</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 30</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1031ec;">"Wherefore say unto the children of Israel, I am the Lord, and I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, and I will rid you out of their bondage, and I will redeem you with a stretched-out arm, and with great judgments. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1031ec;">I will take you to Me for a people, and I will be to you a God; and ye shall know that I am the Lord your God, which bringeth you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1031ec;"> </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1031ec;">And I will bring you in unto the land concerning the which I did swear to give it unto Abraham to Isaac, and to Jacob; andI will give it to you for a heritage: I am the Lord." (Exodus 6:6-8.) </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">All this speaks the purest, freest, richest grace. Jehovah presents Himself to the hearts of His people as the One who was to act in them, for them, and with them, for the display of His own glory. Ruined and helpless as they were, He had come down to show forth His glory, to exhibit His grace, and to furnish a sample of His power, in their full deliverance. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">His glory and their salvation were inseparably connected. They were afterwards re-</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">minded of all this, as we read in the book of Deuteronomy. </span><strong><span style="color: #0714f9;">“The Lord did not set His love upon you, nor choose you, because ye were more in number than any people; for ye were the fewest of all people: but because the Lord loved you, and because He would keep the oath which He had sworn unto your fathers, hath the Lord brought you out with a mighty hand, and redeemed you out of the house of bondmen, from the hand of Pharaoh, king of Egypt”. Deuteronomy 7:6-8 </span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: #4d4d4d;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">C. H. Mackintosh - Notes On Exodus</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #4d4d4d;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">N.J.Hiebert—9473</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 31</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">I grew up in Southern Manitoba. The wide open plains and large fields of grain were often referred to as the "Bread Basket" of the world. Most of the grain produced was wheat, which was sent to the mills to make flour for bread. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">One afternoon as we were going about our farming duties we noticed some unusually dark clouds in the sky moving in from the west. They were moving quickly and appeared like a pot of boiling water. Everything became very quiet and calm. There was no wind, the birds stopped singing, the cows were walking towards the barn for shelter and the chickens and turkeys settled restlessly on their roosts. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Suddenly, there was a roaring as a fierce wind came up followed by severe lightening, thunder and a down pouring of heavy rain. This was quickly followed by hailstones the size of golf balls. They pounded the fields, gardens, buildings, cars and animals. I recall the fear in my mother's voice as she herded the children into the root cellar, while my father attempted to close the shutters on the windows and calm our fears. There was crying and pleading in prayer to the Lord to keep us safely. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The storm subsided as quickly as it had started and we left our safe haven in the cellar to view the damage. Windows shattered, shingles demolished, garden vegetables shredded like salad, fields of grain totally destroyed, chickens and turkeys dead from fear and exposure and water everywhere. For us youngsters our fear quickly disappeared and we enjoyed wading in the water. For our parents there was the concern for the loss and damage. Our food which would ordinarily have been laid up for the winter was gone. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In the last few months we have heard much about destruction of property and loss of crops, in many parts of the world. Fear has been expressed because of lack of food supplies. Money supplies have been greatly reduced - people are afraid. The Bible tells us that these are some of the signs of the last days before Jesus will come again to take all who believe and trust in Him to heaven. (N.J.H.)</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<wbr></wbr>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #110cf1;">"Men's hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth. ("Luke 21:22)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">God is speaking to all of us. He is in full control. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #110cf1;">“God sent His Son the Lord Jesus Christ into the world…that the world through Him might be saved”. (John 3:17)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #110cf1;">“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation”. (2 Corinthians 6:2)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Hark! the voice of Jesus calling—</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">"Come, ye laden, come to Me;</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">I have rest and peace to offer,</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Rest, thou labouring one, for thee.</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Soon that voice will cease its calling,</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Now it speaks, and speaks to thee:</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Sinner, heed the gracious message; To His side for refuge flee:</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Take salvation—take it now and happy be.</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">N.J.Hiebert - 9474</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1031ec;">According as His divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness. 2 Peter1:3</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Only worship that is in spirit and in truth is </span><em><span style="color: black;">right worship</span></em><span style="color: black;">, such worship must come from the overflow of grateful hearts, as we gaze upon our Lord Jesus Christ in all His loveliness and beauty, and as we ponder His love that passeth knowledge. </span><strong><span style="color: #0507f7;">“Looking upon Jesus as He walked” John exclaimed, “Behold the Lamb of God!” (John 1:36) </span></strong><span style="color: black;">That was true worship, right worship: </span><strong><span style="color: #1017e7;">“it is such worshippers that the Father seeks to worship Him</span></strong><span style="color: black;">.</span><strong><span style="color: #1524e1;">”</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> </span><strong><span style="color: #3212f1;">(John 4:23</span><span style="color: #4b24f7;">)</span></strong><span style="color: black;">.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">It is only as our hearts are filled with Christ, by gazing upon Him, that our hearts will overflow, and give forth Right Worship to Him and to His Father.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Paul said to the Athenians </span><strong><span style="color: #2615ee;">“Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, Him declare I unto you” (Acts 17:23) </span></strong><span style="color: black;">May it be that the wondrous grace of God reckoned this ignorant worship of an unknown God, by those who were “feeling after Him” as </span><em><span style="color: black;">right worship</span></em><span style="color: black;">? But He is not to us an ‘Unknown God,‘ but One whom we know well: One who is our best Friend: One to whom we owe all. As we gaze upon Him, well may our hearts rise up in true worship and adoration, until they overflow! May it be so, more and more!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;">O fix our earnest gaze so wholly, Lord, on Thee,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;">That with Thy beauty occupied, we elsewhere none may see.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Hid Treasures - G. C. Willis</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9475</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3a08f3;">Tremble, thou earth, at the presence of the Lord at the presence of the God of Jacob; which turned the rock into a standing water, the flint into a fountain of waters. Psalms 114:7-8</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Sometimes we pray, and pray, and pray about a matter. If it’s a request, the answer just never seems to come; if its a problem, it never seems to budge. If that is so, we are still praying to One who has promised, <strong><span style="color: #3009f2;">“Ask that ye may receive.” (John 16:24) </span></strong> If there is a delay there is a good reason and perhaps we should try to find it. It is in the hands of the One who turns the hard rock into flowing water.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Through manifold temptation,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">My soul holds on its course,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Christ’s mighty intercession</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Alone is my resource </span><span style="font-size: 11px;">Choice Supplications</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert —9476 </p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 3</span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-6882409256560442812023-12-01T06:20:00.039-05:002023-12-29T09:44:23.399-05:00Gems from December 2023<p><span style="font-size: x-large;">December 1</span></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #210ff3;">Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #210ff3;">1 Corinthians 9:24</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Ye were running well! Paul loves the picture of the race. In <strong><span style="color: #250df9;">1 Corinthians 9:24-27</span></strong>, he exhorts the Corinthian believers from the same picture: <strong><span style="color: #2013f6;">”So run, that ye may obtain!”</span></strong> In <strong><span style="color: #390ef6;">Galatians 2:2</span></strong> and <strong><span style="color: #1609f5;">Philippians 2:16</span></strong>, Paul speaks of himself in his own race, that he had not run in vain, or to no purpose. In <strong><span style="color: #1f12f7;">Philippians 3:12-14</span></strong>, Paul sees himself still as the runner, but drawing nearer the end of the race.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The goal is in sight, and that is not the time to relax; on the contrary, now is the time to put forth all his strength, so “down to the goal I press!” As he parted from his dear Ephesian brethren he thinks of the time when, the race finished, the goal passed, the prize won, only the joy remains: <strong><span style="color: #170af5;">“…neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy.” (Acts 20:24)</span></strong>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It is the Greek word for the race course that Paul uses here once again. And in <strong><span style="color: #0f0df2;">2 Timothy 4:7</span></strong>, using the same word, he sees the race is over: <strong><span style="color: #350ff1;">“I have finished my course </span></strong>(again, the word means <strong><span style="color: #0c0ee4;">“race course”)…henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness.”</span></strong> This was not the kingly crown of royalty, but it was the victor’s wreath that the winner of the race received at the Olympic Games. That wreath was made of leaves, a corruptible crown. ” But the crown that we receive is <strong><span style="color: #0a12f3;">“an incorruptible”</span></strong> one <strong><span style="color: #1223f3;">(1 Corinthians 9:25)</span></strong>. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Meditations on Galatians - G. C. Willis</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9413</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3508f5;">I sat down under his shadow with great delight. Song of Solomon 2:3</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Communion with God is the retiring place of the heart. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">If living in communion with God we are not thinking of ourselves. <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Moses did not know his face shone when when every one else did</span>. He had been looking up out of himself and turned towards the earth, bearing upon him the light of heaven. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">None can be so intimately near us as God, for He is in us. Yet what an intimacy it is!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The cross and the crown go together; and, more than this, the cross and communion go together. The cross touches my natural will, and therefore it breaks down and takes away that which hinders communion. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">If I am not in communion it is for the Holy Spirit to speak to my conscience, instead of using me. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">May our work be a work of faith, drawing its strength, its existence even from our communion with God our Father.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In speaking of God’s truth, whenever we cannot “speak as the oracles of God” through communion, it is our business to be silent. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">I may study the word again and again, but unless I get into communion with Him by it, it will profit me nothing—at least at that time.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">What is the joy of a Redeemer but the joy and communion, the happiness of His redeemed? <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Pilgrim Portions for the Day of Rest - J. N. Darby </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9414</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #101cee;">Attend unto me, and hear me: I mourn in my complaint, and make a noise; because of the voice of the enemy, because of the oppression of the wicked. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #101cee;">Psalm 55:2,3</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">I have been driven many times to my knees by the over-whelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go. My own wisdom, and that of all about me, seemed insufficient for the day. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Abraham Lincoln</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">What e’er the care that breaks your rest, </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">What e’er the wish that swells your breast;</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Spread before God that wish, that care,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">And change anxiety to prayer. </span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J. Hiebert 9415</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">It came to pass . . . that the brook dried up. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">1 Kings 17:7</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;"> </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The education of our faith is incomplete if we have not learned that there is a providence of loss, a ministry of failing and of fading things, a gift of emptiness. The material insecurities of life make for its spiritual establishment. The dwindling stream by which Elijah sat and mused is a true picture of the life of each of us. <strong><span style="color: #2d11f3;">“It came to pass…that the brook dried up”</span></strong>—that is the history of our yesterday, and a prophecy of our morrows.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In some way or other we will have to learn the difference between trusting in the gift and trusting in the Giver. The gift may be good for a while, but the Giver is the Eternal Love.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Cherith was a difficult problem to Elijah until he got to Zarephath, and then it was all as clear as daylight. <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">God’s hard words are never His last words</span>. The woe and the waste and the tears of life belong to the interlude and not the finale. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Had Elijah been led straight to Zarephath he would have missed something that helped to make him a wiser prophet and a better man. He lived by faith at Cherith. And whensoever in your life and mine some spring of earthly and outward resource has dried up, it has been that we might learn that our hope and health are in God who made heaven and earth. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">F. B.Meyer</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Perchance thou, too, hast camped by such sweet waters,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">And quenched with joy thy weary, parched soul’s thirst; </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">To find, as time goes on, thy streamlet alters from what it was at first.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Hearts that have cheered, or soothed, or blest, or strengthened; </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Loves that have lavished so unstintedly;</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Joys, treasured joys—have passed, as time hath lengthened, into obscurity.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">If thus, ah soul, the brook thy heart hath cherished </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Doth fail thee now—no more thy thirst assuage—</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">If its once glad refreshing streams have perished, Let HIM thy heart engage. </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">He will not foil, nor mock, nor disappoint thee;</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">His consolations change not with the years;</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">With oil of joy He surely will anoint thee, and wipe away thy tears.</span></strong></em> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 11px;">J. Danson Smith</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J. Hiebert 9416</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #130bf4;">When thou goest out to battle against thine enemies, and seest horses, and chariots, and a people more than thou, be not afraid of them: for the Lord thy God is with thee…let not your hearts faint, fear not, and do not tremble, neither be ye terrified because of them; for the Lord your God is He that goeth with you, to fight for you against your enemies, to save you…” (Deuteronomy 20:1-9)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">These verses make it clear that there are some who are not ready for battle. They will only weaken others. The one who is thinking of something else, and wanting to do it—he cannot fight. He is not heart whole. The man who is afraid of being asked to do hard things—<strong><span style="color: #1306f6;">”let him go and return unto his house, lest his brethren’s heart faint as well as his heart.” (v.8.)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">These words have a power to search us all. I write that which I have proved. Are any of us today sorely tempted to wish we were doing something else? Are we afraid of something that may be asked of us? Does it seem impossible to do <em><strong>that</strong></em> joyfully? Do our hearts faint as we think of it? There is nothing for it but sheer honesty—the honesty of the Scriptures: <strong><span style="color: #280cf4;">“My flesh and my heart faileth.”</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And yet we want to fight the battles of our Lord; we want to be able to pray, vitally, affectively; we want to be so clear of self, and the desire of self, so ready for anything, that our God will not fear lest our influence weaken others; then let us finish the sentence: <strong><span style="color: #1306f8;">“My flesh and my heart faileth:</span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: #1306f8;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"> but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion forever</span></span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: #1306f8;">.” (Psalm 73:26)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Oh, how can we ever thank Him enough for that <strong><span style="color: #081bf6;">“</span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: #081bf6;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">but God</span></span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: #081bf6;">”</span></strong>? We need not go and return to our house, we will trust and not be afraid: <strong><span style="color: #170af5;">“for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song; He also is become my salvation.”</span></strong> <strong><span style="color: #4007f9;">(Isaiah 12:2)</span></strong>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">Thou givest…They Gather Amy Carmichael </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J. Hiebert 9417</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #210ff3;">And, behold two of them went that same day to a village called Emmaus…and they talked together of all these things which had happened. And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, Jesus Himself drew near, and went with them. Luke 24:13-15</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Jesus drew near and went with them, and many handfuls did he spread out before them on that memorable journey. And if there is any soul exercised about the things which belong to God’s glory, they cannot help but talk to one another about it, for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And as we speak or think of Him, we may feel assured that by His Spirit that Blessed One will be near us, to teach us of Himself, as we see how He suffered and bled and died for us, how He was raised up by the power of God, how He has entered into glory; His path of sorrow and suffering over, and we redeemed and brought nigh by His blood, and accepted in the Beloved, and we shall see Him and be like Him in that day when all the saved ones, all gathered by His Spirit and caught up to be with the Lord for ever.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">If the contemplation of the coming rapture gives joy to our hearts, what will the blessed reality be but joy unspeakable and full of glory? Oh, then till that moment comes may our hearts be taken up with Thee…like the two privileged disciples on the way to Emmaus constrain Thee to abide with us. <strong><span style="color: #3110f3;">“The Father Himself loveth you because ye have loved Me, and have believed that I came out from God.” (John 16:27)</span></strong>. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">C. McKendrick </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9418</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2d1deb;">My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me? Why art Thou so far from helping Me, and from the words of My roaring? Psalm 22:1</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The gospels display the One in whom was no selfishness. They tell out the heart that was ready for everybody. No matter how deep His own sorrow, He always cared for others. He could warn Peter in Gethsemane, and comfort the dying thief on the cross. His heart was above circumstances, never acting under them, but ever according to God in them.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">We see that He was always sensible to them, and we often get in the Psalms expressions of what His heart felt in them: </span><strong><span style="color: #210ff3;">“I am poured out like water, and all My bones are out of joint; My heart is like wax.“ (Psalm 22:14)</span></strong><span style="color: black;">.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">What we find all through the life of Christ as shown out in the Gospels, is the total absence of selfishness, never acting for self in any way whatever. He could rejoice with those who had joy, and grieve with those in sorrow. He could cheer, warn, or rebuke, as need arose. Whatever love dictated, that He did. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">In Psalm 22 we see Christ alone, suffering under God, enduring the wrath due to sin, but continuing the righteous Man, crying unto God, and justifying Him, even when forsaken by Him. </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. N. Darby</span> </span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">On the cross alone—forsaken—where no pitying eye was found;</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Now to God’s right exalted, with Thy praise the heavens resound.</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"></span><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Miss C. Thompson </span></span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert</span><strong><span style="color: black;"> - </span></strong><span style="color: black;">9419</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3508f5;">My voice shalt Thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto Thee, and will look up. Psalm 5:3</span></strong></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">George David Stewart counselled</span><strong><span style="color: #3508f5;"> </span></strong><span style="color: black;">that “time spent on the knees in prayer will do more to remedy heart strain and nerve worry than anything else.” We would do well, in these tense and trying days, to let prayer be the key of the morning and the bolt of the evening.” </span></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">There is an hour of calm relief</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">From every throbbing care;</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">‘Tis when before the throne of grace</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">I kneel in secret prayer.</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"></span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Fanny Crosby</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9420</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">The Lord Himself… 1 Thessalonians 4:16</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Now that we have become true believers in the Lord Jesus Christ, truly trusting in His Life, His Work, His Word, we can trace everything to His love; past, present and future. The ultimate blessing will be when the promise unfolds before our eyes:</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1306f9;">“For the Lord HIMSELF shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, 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 4:16-17)</span></strong><span style="color: black;">. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">Prophecies -</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> There are many other reassuring verses that demonstrate how closely involved the Lord Jesus always has been, is today, and always will be, involved with His people here on earth. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The prophet </span><strong><span style="color: #2602fa;">Isaiah 7:14</span></strong><span style="color: black;">: declared: </span><strong><span style="color: #1407f9;">“Therefore the Lord HIMSELF shall give you a sign; Behold a virgin shall conceive, and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> (God with us). And in </span><strong><span style="color: #1407f8;">Isaiah 61:10: “My soul shall be joyful in my God; for, He hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, He hath covered me with a robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh HIMSELF with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth HERSELF with her jewels”</span></strong><span style="color: black;">. reflecting the glory of the Groom, thus sharing in His joy at the time of the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lorne Perry </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 11px;">(To be continued)</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9421</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 10px;">(CONTINUED FROM 9421)</span></span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">But made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of man. Philippians 2:7</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">At the present time</span></span></strong><span style="color: black;"> - As to our new life in Christ, begun the day we were Saved, there are many stirring mentions of the close relationship we enjoy with our Saviour; always initiated by Him, but evoking a warm response from our hearts. Philippians 2:7 starts recounting the downward path of the Lord Jesus: </span><strong><span style="color: #3015f3;">“But made HIMSELF of no reputation</span></strong><span style="color: black;">. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3711f5;">Hebrews 9:14</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> describes the low point of His journey and its results. </span><strong><span style="color: #1018f5;">How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit, offered HIMSELF without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The familiar verse, </span><strong><span style="color: #120af8;">“Galatians 2:20: The life which I now live in the flesh, I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me and gave HIMSELF for me;</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> brings before us our individual personal intimacy with our Lord. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">And this brings forth praise for the fact that He has become the chief corner stone of our personal faith, and of His Church: </span><strong><span style="color: #0911f5;">Ephesians 2:19-20: Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of faith, and are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ HIMSELF being the chief corner stone.”</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lorne Perry</span><span style="font-size: 14px;"> </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9422</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #210ff3;">Thou shalt rejoice before the Lord thy God in all that thou puttest thine hands unto. Deuteronomy 12:18</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #210ff3;">Be ye thankful Colossians 3:15 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Thou that hast given so much to me,</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Give one thing more, a grateful heart.</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Not thankful when it pleaseth me,</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">As if Thy blessings had spare days;</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">But such a heart, whose pulse may be Thy praise.</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">G. Herbert</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">If any one would tell you the shortest, surest way to all happiness and all perfection, he must tell you to make it a rule to yourself to thank and praise God for everything that happens to you.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">For it is certain that whatever seeming calamity happens to you, if you thank and praise God for it, you turn it into a blessing. Could you, therefore, work miracles, you could not do more for yourself than by this thankful spirit; for it heals with a word speaking, and turns all that it touches into happiness.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">William Law </span></span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: black;"> </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9423</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #050df6;">And the children of Israel were fruitful, and increased abundantly, and multiplied, and waxed exceeding mighty; and the land was filled with them. Now there arose up a new king over Egypt, which knew not Joseph. And he said unto his people, Behold, the people of the children of Israel are more and mightier than we…and Pharaoh charged all his people, saying, Every son that is born ye shall cast into the river. (Exodus1:7-22) </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">This was Satan’s power. The river was the place of death; and, by death, the enemy sought to frustrate the purpose of God. It has ever been thus. The serpent has at all times watched with malignant eye those instruments which God was about to use for His own gracious ends. The enemy seeking, by death, to interrupt the current of divine action.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">But, blessed be God, there is something beyond death. When Satan has exhausted his power, then God begins to show Himself. The grave is the limit of Satan‘s activity; but there it is that divine activity begins. This is a glorious truth. Satan has the power of death; but God is the God of the living, and He gives life beyond the reach and power of death—a life which Satan cannot touch.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Faith knows that God is stronger than Satan, and it can therefore quietly wait for the full manifestation of that superior strength, and, in thus waiting, find its victory and its settled peace. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Notes on Exodus - C. H. Mackintosh </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9424</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Behold, I come quickly Revelation 3:11,22:12, 22:20. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">A careful study of the attitude of the believer toward his absent Lord, as spoken of in various parts of the Word of God, will show that it may well be divided into three distinct parts. He WAITS, he WALKS, and he WORKS. His heart </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">waits</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"> for Christ, His feet </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">walk</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;">, and His hands </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">work</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;">; thus His heart, feet, and hands are all occupied for the Lord in view of His coming.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">These distinctions are by no means arbitrary; on the contrary, it will be found that wherever the coming of the Lord is spoken of, it is in connection with some one of these aspects. In Matthew 25, we get the waiting and the working; In Luke 12, principally the waiting; in Thessalonians and in Revelation, all three; in 1 Corinthians 15, the work; and in 1 John 3, rather the walk.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">In </span><strong><span style="color: black;">(1 Thessalonians 1:10)</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> we get the Thessalonians </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">waiting</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"> for God’s Son from heaven. In chapter </span><strong><span style="color: black;">(2:20)</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> we find the apostle speaking of the Lord’s coming in reference to his </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">work</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"> among them, and the reward which he will get in then in the glory; while in chapter 3 we find the return of the Lord Jesus Christ with all His saints is placed in connection with a holy and God-pleasing </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">walk</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;">. </span><strong><span style="color: black;">(4:1)</span></strong><span style="color: black;">. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Plain Papers for Young Believers - A. T. Schofield </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9425</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #230bf8;">Ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold…but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #230bf8;">1 Peter 1:18-20 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The death and resurrection of Christ form the new basis on which God establishes every relationship with fallen man, and the Holy Scriptures are replete with types, prophesies, and shadows all pointing to the coming One. Already, before the foundation of the world was laid, God had His Lamb in reserve. When the first man, Adam, sinned and thus failed in his responsibility towards God, it only served as an occasion for God to introduce into this world the Second Man, the Man of His counsels, the Lord from heaven.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c0af4;">“Behold the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world!”</span></strong> This was the exclamation of John the baptist, <strong><span style="color: #270bee;">(John 1:29)</span></strong>. God Himself must provide a Lamb, for we had none to bring. What the holiness of God required, the love of God provided in the sending of His Son. Wonderful provision for ruined sinners who now have been brought to God! “<strong><span style="color: #1e06f6;">He hath made us accepted in the Beloved. In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace.” (Ephesians 1:6-7)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The same One who was on the cross, bearing our sins, is now seated at the right had of the throne of God. This is the blessed proof of God‘s satisfaction with the work of putting sin away. God’s righteousness requires that all who have been redeemed will also be glorified with Christ where He is. We will be with Him and like Him, the fruit of His grace and the objects of God’s eternal pleasure. <strong><span style="color: #0e2af4;">“To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.” (Jude 25)</span></strong>. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Jacob Redekop </span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9426 </p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c09f8;">For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God. Romans 3:23</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">GOD’S CONDITIONS OF SALVATION</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Every one is a bankrupt sinner, owing to God a great debt, having nothing of His own with which to pay Him. There is no such thing with God as “liquidation by arrangement,” there are no assets to divide.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It is just as if a merchant owed five million dollars to his creditors, and had not two cents left to hand over to them.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In the midst of man’s extremity and need, Christ comes in and goes to the cross, God is satisfied with His own well-beloved Son and with His finished work, Christ is raised, a discharge is given, the debtor goes free. This is salvation! This is redemption! Very simple and plain: it is God’s free gift to man.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0608f8;">“That if though shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (Romans 10:9) </span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: #0608f8;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Sower </span></span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9427</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #230bf8;">And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men…the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us. And they came with haste and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger…His name was called JESUS. Luke 2:13-21.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">It is very evident that God Himself prepared everything in this world, so that all should be ready to receive His Son, and send forth the good news of the grace of God to every part of the world. But, alas, when the Son of God came to this earth, </span><span style="color: #2a08f5;">“there was no room for Him;” </span><span style="color: black;">they sent His mother out to the stable, and there the holy Child was born. There in a stable, the only begotten Son of God came to this earth, an outcast </span><span style="color: #1e06f4;">(Jeremiah 30:17)</span><span style="color: black;"> from the beginning of His sojourn here.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">“No room for Thee, Thou blessed One, the Father’s holy Child,</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">His well beloved, only Son, the Saviour undefiled!</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">No room for Thee in crowded inn that evening long ago!</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">‘Behold the Lamb’ who bore our sin, shut out by hearts below!”</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">A multitude of </span><span style="color: #2008f3;">the</span><span style="color: black;"> </span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: #320cf4;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">heavenly </span></span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: #320cf4;">host</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: #2e09e5;">(Luke 2:13)</span><span style="color: black;"> came to announce the arrival of this divine Stranger, praising God, and saying, </span><span style="color: #3312f6;">“Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”</span><span style="color: black;"> But the only ones to hear their message were a few shepherds out on the hillside keeping watch over their sheep. Jerusalem, the city of the great King, was troubled by the news that He was born </span><span style="color: #3b1bf5;">(Matthew 2:3)</span><span style="color: black;">. And the chief priests and scribes, who should have been the first to welcome Him, did not make the smallest effort to seek Him. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">True, there were those who brought kingly gifts and falling down before Him did Him homage, but these were Gentile strangers. </span><span style="color: #1b08f4;">(Matthew 2:11)</span><span style="color: black;">. And old Simeon, or Anna, had a heart prepared to give a welcome to the newborn King; and Anna knew </span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">all</span></span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: black;"> those at Jerusalem that looked for redemption and she spoke of Him to them. I fear the number was not great. </span><span style="color: #2907f3;">(Luke 2:25, 36-38)</span><span style="color: black;">. Such was man’s condition when God’s time arrived, when the fullness of time came. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">In </span><span style="color: #1d0bf3;">Romans 5:6</span><span style="color: black;">, the Holy Spirit calls it </span><span style="color: #1205f5;">“due time”</span><span style="color: black;">In </span><span style="color: #370bf5;">Mark 1:15</span><span style="color: black;">, He sent to men the message, </span><span style="color: #2a07f7;">“The time is fulfilled.”</span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">It was God’s time, the time for the most important event that ever has happened in the history of the universe</span>: “GOD SENT FORTH FROM HIMSELF HIS SON.” </span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Meditations on Galatians - G. C Willis </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9428</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c09f8;">I sat down under His shadow with great delight. Song of Solomon 2:3</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c09f8;">Moses “sees Him who is invisible.” (Hebrews 11:27) </span></strong><span style="color: black;">This makes him decided. When we realize the presence of God Pharaoh is nothing. Where there is lack of communion there is weakness and indecision. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">There is no strength but in Christ. I have none at any time except as my soul is in secret communion with Him. Now the direct power of Satan is towards this point, to keep our souls from living on Christ.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">One great thing we have to seek is that communion with Christ be as strong as all the doctrines we hold or teach. Without that the doctrine itself will have no force: besides, we ourselves shall not be with God in it.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">There should be a going of the soul to God in a far more intimate way than to anyone else. Communion wth saints is precious, but I must have intimacy of communion with God above all; and communion of saints will flow from communion with God.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Joy in God is communion. If living in communion with God we are not thinking of ourselves. Moses did not know his face shone when everyone else did. He had been looking up out of himself and turned towards the earth bearing upon him the light of heaven. None can be so intimately near us as God, for He is in us. Yet what an intimacy it is! </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Pilgrim Portions - J. N. Darby </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9429</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c09f8;">The King of glory shall come in. Who is this King of glory? The Lord of hosts, He is the King of glory. Psalm 24:8-10 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The King of glory did not come from heaven manifesting forth His mighty power and glory, but He came of a woman, born of a woman. He took on Himself our human nature. He came under law (not under </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;">the</span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"> law), that He might redeem (or, buy out) those that were under law. We may see plainly that instead of bringing Christians under law, God is really leading those who had been under law out from it. But He had to </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;">buy</span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"> them out, and <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">the cost was His well beloved Son</span>.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">No doubt this applies first of all to the Jews, and many Jewish believers then alive, who had been brought up under the law of Moses, learned what it meant to be bought out from under that law. But when the Holy Spirit says, “He came under law, that He might buy out those that were under law“ (not under </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;">the</span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"> law), it tells us that Christ’s work went much further than to the Jews alone. His redemption went to the ends of the earth, for man by nature loves to put himself under law, nor was it the law of Moses alone but law of every kind from which Christ redeemed us</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">And so the Gentile Christians in Galatia shared in this redemption from under law. Redemption places all, that is all who believe in Christ and His work on the cross, under the benefit of that work whether they be Jews or Gentiles. In God’s sight these are bought out from under law, in order that those who were under law might be delivered from it. Before God could give to us the place and the spirit of sons He must buy us out from under law. </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"> <span style="font-size: 13px;">Galatians - G. C. Willis </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9430</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c09f8;">Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding. Proverbs 23:23</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">We may well cry, with</span><span style="color: #2c09f8;"> </span><span style="color: black;">the prophet,</span><strong><span style="color: #2c09f8;"> “Truth has fallen in our streets.” (Isaiah 59:14) </span></strong><span style="color: black;">But he who desires the approval of God above the praise of men will value it nevertheless, and be ready to purchase it at the cost of friends, reputation, possessions, yea, life itself. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Nor will he part with it whatever the suffering that may result from </span><strong><span style="color: #1b0ef2;">“earnestly contending for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints.” (Jude 3). </span></strong><span style="color: black;">Rationalists may sneer, and the superstitious persecute; but he who posseses the truth will find with it wisdom, instruction and understanding such as all the wise men after the flesh are strangers to. Who exemplified what is here inculcated more than the one time rabbi of Tarsus, the apostle Paul? </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0705f2;">“But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord:…that I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection…” (Philippians 3:7-11)</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Notes on Proverbs - H. A. Ironside</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9431</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>In the beginning God. Genesis 1:1</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c09f8;">Ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into His glory? And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, He expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning Himself. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c09f8;">Luke 24:26-27</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The Bible begins by telling whence we and all things have come; it ends, by telling whither we and all things tend. It tells of the entering in of sin and woe; it gives the promise of redemption and of triumph over sin; It shows us how the way was prepared for the Deliverer; He comes; we see His salvation; we are gathered about Him; and then, just as the veil is lifted from the past in Genesis to let us see the beginning, so the veil is lifted from the future in Revelation to let us see the end.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Can we say whence the Bible has this strange completeness? Say that God is the author of the Book, that His plan thus spanned the ages, and I quite understand the matter. But apart from that there is no explanation.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">When we reach “the final harmony” described in </span><strong><span style="color: #2d17f4;">Revelation 22:3-5 “And there shall be no more curse: but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it; and His servants shall serve Him: and they shall see His face; and His name shall be in their foreheads”</span></strong><span style="color: black;">, we feel instinctively that we have come to a condition of intense joy beyond which it is impossible to go. Then the vision of the poet shall have become an accomplished fact:</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Every tiger madness muzzled, every serpent passion killed,</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Every grim ravine a garden, every blazing desert tilled,</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Robed in universal harvest, up to either pole she smiles, </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Universal ocean softly washing all her warless isles.</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: #1815f0;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">And when all things shall be subdued unto Him…that God may be all in all. 1 Corinthians 15:28</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 11px;">The Wonderful World - George Henderson </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9432</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c09f8;">Now from the sixth hour there was darkness over all the land unto the ninth hour. Matthew 27:45</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Midday was turned to midnight.</span><strong><span style="color: #2c09f8;"></span></strong><span style="color: black;">No human eye could see Him on the cross during those three hours. His suffering during that holy time was veiled in darkness. No mind can fully comprehend what took place. No tongue can fully describe that awful scene. By faith, we believe. We are so thankful that He endured it! Such was His love for you and me. </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 11px;">John M. Clegg</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">On Calvary we’ve adoring stood, </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">And gazed on that wondrous cross</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Where the holy, spotless Lamb of God</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Was slain in His love for us;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">How our hearts have stirred at that solemn cry,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">While the sun was enwrapped in night</span>,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">“Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?” </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Most blessed, most awful sight. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Our sins were laid on His sacred head, </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The curse by our Lord was born;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">For us a victim our Saviour bled, </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">And endured that death of scorn;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Himself He gave our poor hearts to win—</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">(Was ever love, Lord, like thine!)</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">From the paths of folly, and shame, and sin,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">And fill them with joys divine. </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. G.Deck </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9433</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #2716f4;">"All these things are against me." (Gen. 42:36.)"</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #2716f4;">“All things work together for good to them that love God."</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #2716f4;">(Rom. 8:28.)</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In a factory building there are wheels and gearings, </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">There are cranks and pulleys, beltings tight or slack— </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Some are whirling swiftly, some are turning slowly, </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Some are thrusting forward, some are pulling back;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Some are smooth and silent, some are rough and noisy, </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Pounding, rattling, clanking, moving with a jerk;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In a wild confusion in a seeming chaos,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Lifting, pushing, driving — but they do their work.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">From the mightiest lever to the tiniest pinion,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">All things move together for the purpose planned;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And behind the working is a mind controlling, </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And a force directing, and a guiding hand.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">So all things are working for the Lord's beloved:</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Some things might be hurtful if alone they stood;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Some might seem to hinder; some might draw us backward;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">But they work together, and they work for good, </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">All the thwarted longings, all the stern denials, </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">All the contradictions, hard to understand.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And the force that holds them, speeds them and retards them, </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Stops and starts and guides them—is our Father's hand.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">-Annie Johnson Flint.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /> N.J.Hiebert - 9434</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c09f8;">And it came to pass in those days, when Moses was grown, that he went out unto his brethren, and looked on their burdens; and he spied and an Egyptian smiting a Hebrew, one of his brethren. And he looked this way and that way, and when he saw there was no man, he slew the Egyptian, and hid him in the sand.” Exodus 2:11-12</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">This was zeal for his brethren; but it was ”not according to knowledge,” God’s time was not yet come for judging Egypt and delivering Israel; and the intelligent servant will ever wait for God’s time. </span><strong><span style="color: #2a10e8;">“Moses was grown,”</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> and: </span><strong><span style="color: #2115e9;">”he was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians;</span><span style="color: #2110f0;"> and moreover, he supposed his brethren would have understood how that God by His hand would deliver them.”</span></strong><span style="color: black;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">All this was true; yet he evidently ran before the time, when one does this, failure must be the issue. And not only is there failure in the end, but also manifest uncertainty, and lack of calm elevation and holy independence in the progress in a work begun before God’s time. Moses </span><strong><span style="color: #260aef;">“looked this way and that way.”</span></strong><span style="color: black;">There is no need of this when a man is acting with and for God, in the full intelligence of His mind, as to the detail of his work.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">If God’s time had really come, and if Moses was conscious of being divinely commissioned to execute judgment upon the Egyptians, and if he felt assured of the divine presence with him, he would not have “</span><strong><span style="color: #3312f5;">looked this way and that way.</span></strong><span style="color: black;">” This action teaches a deep practical lesson to all the servants of God. There are two things by which it is superinduced, namely, the fear of man’s wrath, and the hope of man’s favour. The servant of the living God should neither regard the one nor the other. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #5407f7;">“Have I not commanded thee? Be strong and of good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” (Joshua 1:9) </span></strong><span style="color: black;"></span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Notes On Exodus - C.H. Macintosh</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9435</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2716f4;">Looking unto Jesus the Author and Finisher of our faith. Hebrews 12:2</span></strong><span style="color: #2716f4;">.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">On a day in the autumn, I saw a prairie eagle mortally wounded by a rifle shot. His eye still gleamed like a circle of light. Then he slowly turned his head, and gave one more searching and longing look at the sky. He had often swept those starry spaces with his wonderful wings. The beautiful sky was the home of his heart. It was the eagle’s domain. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">A thousand times he had exploited there his splendid strength. In those far away heights he had played with the lightenings, and raced with the winds, and now, so far away from home, the eagle lay dying, done to the death, because for once he forgot and flew too low.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The soul is that eagle. This is not its home. It must not loose the skyward look. We must keep faith, we must keep hope, we must keep courage, we must keep Christ. Keep the skyward look!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">All the marvellous attributes of the Godhead are on the side of the weakest believer, who in the name of Christ, and in simple, childlike trust, yields himself to God and turns to Him for help and guidance. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Keep looking up—</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Though darkness seems to wrap thy soul; </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">The Light of Light shall fill thy soul </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">When looking up.</span></strong></em> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Selected</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9436</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c09f8;">Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right? </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c09f8;">Genesis 18:25</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c09f8;">And Abraham . . . looked toward Sodom . . . and, lo, the smoke of the country went up as the smoke of a furnace. Genesis 19:27,28 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Abraham had earnestly interceded for the wicked city of Sodom but it seemed his prayers had been of no avail. The righteous Judge had acted righteously — in judgment.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Later, Abraham would learn that God had also acted mercifully in saving Lot. Only then would he have realized that God had answered his prayer and given him his heart’s desire by sparing his nephew.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">May we learn to trust Him even when we cannot see the answer to our prayers. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">R. Sheldrake</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">We bless Thee for Thy peace O God,</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Deep as the unfathomed sea,</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">The peace which suffers and is strong,</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Trusts when it cannot see.</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9437</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2716f4;">And Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the Lord God amongst the trees of the garden. (Genesis 3:8)</span></strong><span style="color: #2716f4;"><br /></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The garden was the meeting place for fellowship between the Lord God and Adam. Now it had become a hiding place from the presence of God on account of Adam’s sin. The moment sin entered, he instinctively shrank from the presence of the glory of God. Not only does sinful man seek to avoid it, but the glory of God itself repels sin. Paul sums it up this way: <strong><span style="color: #300ef4;">“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God” (Romans 3:23)</span></strong>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2716f4;">“Unto Adam also and to his wife did the Lord God make coats of skins, and clothed them” (Genesis 3:21).</span></strong> This verse sets forth a very important principle. For man to return and once more enjoy the presence of God, he must be clothed with a righteousness of God’s own providing. Death must come in, in order to effect this. The coats of skins were the fruit of the death of an innocent animal. How strikingly this sets forth the death of the Lord Jesus on the cross! </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2716f4;">“For He hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him” (2 Corinthians 5:21)</span></strong>. The Lord Jesus bore our sins and offenses against God, for He <strong><span style="color: #2716f4;">“Was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification” (Romans 4:25)</span></strong>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">God’s righteousness has now been manifested in the cross of Christ, <strong><span style="color: #2716f4;">”Even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe: for there is no difference (Romans 3:22)</span></strong>. He offers you righteousness, a righteousness fit for His presence, for it is <strong><span style="color: #2716f4;">“unto all”</span></strong> without exception. But it is only <strong><span style="color: #2716f4;">“upon all who believe.”</span></strong> <span style="color: black;">Those who do not know God, nor obey the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ,</span><strong><span style="color: #2716f4;"> “shall be punished with everlasting destruction from </span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: #2716f4;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">the presence of the Lord</span></span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: #2716f4;">, and from </span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: #2716f4;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">the glory of His power</span></span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: #2716f4;">” 2 Thessalonians 1:9)</span></strong>. <strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Richard A. Barnett</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9438</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>HE hath chosen us in Him before the foundation of the world. </strong><strong>(Ephesians 1:4)</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">LOVED BEFORE TIME BEGAN-LOVED TO THE END</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">Having loved His own, "He loved them unto the end" (Jn. 13:1), is a truth not only known to every believer in Him by faith, but also from their own experience of that love. And oh, how sweet this experience of Christ's love in this cold world is! When the heart is chilled, and yearning for a little warmth, how sweet to turn to the Lord Jesus and feel this warmth of His love! Ah! Looking up to Him, the ear is always warmed.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;"><br /></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">In Ephesians we have the setting forth of that which would feed the love of the Lord Jesus in regard to His Church. In the first chapter, we have the scene before time was, in verse 4. When the Lord Jesus looks at me, He looks at one who was chosen by the Father before time was, to show forth the glory of that grace which could accept me in the Beloved. He sees the chosen of the Father in me, the Father having bound me up with the Son before the foundation of the world. Not only the prodigal brought into the Father's house, but more - a secret purpose, He and the Father one in that purpose, and the poor sinner chosen and accepted in Him before the foundation of the world.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;"><br /></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #090909;">Can God have anything against you when He has thus sat in council about you? Must not the Son love you, seeing your association with the Father, in Himself, before the world was? He gave Himself for me at the cross bearing our own sins in His own body on the tree: God laying on Him your iniquity and mine: Can we look up there and not feel the exceeding riches of the grace of that God, who, in raising Him up from among the dead, raised us up in Him, and seated us in heavenly places in Him? When the Lord Jesus looks in the face of a believer, He says, "I loved you before the foundation of the world and I must love you to the end for My Father's sake."</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #060606;">G. V. Wigram</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9439</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 28</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>For even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us: therefore let us keep the feast not with old leaven…but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. </strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>(1 Corinthians 5:7-8)</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #060606;">FEEDING ON THE LAMB</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #060606;">Let us look a little at the circumstances which accompanied the Passover. The blood on the lintel formed the simple basis of the Israelite's security. But there are other points of deep interest into which the spiritual mind can enter with much profit.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #060606;">First, the lamb was eaten roasted with fire. No other process could have told out the significant principle with the same emphasis. The action of fire upon the body of the lamb gave expression to the intensity of Christ's sufferings when He exposed His blessed person to the full action of Jehovah's wrath against sin.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #060606;">It was one thing to rest in the security of the shed blood and another thing to eat of the </span><strong><span style="color: blue;">"lamb roast with fire."</span></strong><span style="color: #060606;"> Hence the apostle stays, </span><strong><span style="color: blue;">"That I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings" Philippians 3:10.</span></strong><span style="color: #060606;"> Here was the desire of one who had already rested in the blood. The fellowship of Christ's sufferings is but little known even by those who are resting in Christ's blood; were it more entered into, there would be far more depth of experience and power of Christian action than there is. We are too ready to rest content with knowing the value of the blood, without feeding on the Lamb, and thus we lose much of our privilege of personal fellowship with Jesus.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #060606;">It is not merely the work which has been done, but the One who has done it. The former is properly the object for the sinner, the latter for the saint; and the more the saint is enabled to enter into what Christ is, the more perfect will be his repose in His work. </span><strong><span style="color: #060606;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">C. H. Mackintosh</span></span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9440</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c09f8;">And she brought forth her firstborn Son, and wrapped Him in swaddling cloths, and laid Him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c09f8;">Luke 2:7</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c09f8;">And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c09f8;">John 1:14</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">Peace on Earth</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Each recurring Christmastime gives occasion to emphasize anew the wonderful story of the love of God—a love that led Him to send His one-and-only Son into the world, that we might live through Him. Christianity rests on three great pillars: the Incarnation, the Crucifixion, and the Resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Incarnation alone could not redeem sinful men. But apart from the incarnation there could be no propitiatory sacrifice that would avail to put away sin. God the Son became man in order to die. We cannot make too much of the mystery of the union of the of the human and the divine in Jesus, who was both Son of God and the Son of Mary. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">In Him we have the Mediator for whom the patriarch Job longed, one who can lay His hand upon both God and man </span><strong><span style="color: #290df3;">(Job 9:33)</span></strong><span style="color: black;">, because He combines the natures of both, in one glorious Person. Bethlehem, Calvary, and the empty tomb, all alike should stir our souls and draw our hearts out to God in wonder, love, and praise.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">H. A. Ironside</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Here Peace alighted once, but could not find a home.</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">To Him who brought it, earth could give no room.</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Him and His peace man would not have and in this Child of peace</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Man saw no heavenly excellence, no grace, no comeliness.</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Peace in that cradle lay, the Prince of Peace was there;</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">The fulness of His Peace He brought with man to share.</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"></span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> H.Bonar</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; outline: none; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9441 </span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 30</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was very good.</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>(Genesis 1:31)</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>So Joseph died, being one hundred and ten years old; and they embalmed him, and he was put in a coffin in Egypt. </strong><strong>(Genesis 50:26)</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">The first verse of Genesis teaches us in simple terms what many scientists have not yet learned: </span><strong><span style="color: blue;">"In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth" (Gen. 1:1)</span></strong><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">. The Bible gives the history of two men: the first man, Adam, and the Second Man, the last Adam — the Lord from heaven. </span><strong><span style="color: blue;">(1 Corinthians 15:47)</span></strong><span style="color: #0a0a0a;"> In Genesis we find the story of the first man. After God had garnished the heavens and made the earth a suitable habitat for man, He set Adam as head over this fair creation. This was God's crowning act, and He declares that "indeed it was very good."</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">As the account continues, we find that soon this creation was marred. Man's disobedience to God's one command proved fatal. God had said that the day man would eat of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, he would surely die. </span><strong><span style="color: blue;">"Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned" (Rom. 5:12)</span></strong><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">Time marched on from generation to generation. In Genesis we read that they had sons and daughters and they reached a high age, but, with only one exception, they all died. Until the present time, given all the skills and technology man can muster, these words are still true: </span><strong><span style="color: blue;">"It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment" (Hebrews. 9:27)</span></strong><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">. The last verse in Genesis records that Joseph died and was put in a coffin in Egypt. What a picture of this sad world where death now reigns as king!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">Thank God, this is not the end! The first man failed miserably, but this served as an occasion for God to introduce the Second Man, His beloved Son. </span><strong><span style="color: blue;">"God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son" (John. 3:16)</span></strong><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">. God's wonderful plan of salvation! </span><strong><span style="color: #0a0a0a;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Jacob Redekop</span></span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9442</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 31</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>1st Peter 5:7</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">A Teacher's Privilege </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">To-day, dear friends, you’re much in my mind,</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">Who start your work to do.</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">What a privilege you have of training the minds</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">Of the children who go to school.</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">There will be days that are hard, </span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">And days that are blue,</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">And days that you hardly know, just what to do,</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">But keep on praying, His Grace is sufficient for you.</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">If for Christ your work is done,</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">Though oft you feel tired and worn,</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">He does know you did not shirk.</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">With care He will watch your work, </span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">For He knows the seed of love </span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">Planted here doth bloom above.</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">Thus, in trust and faith, work on;</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0a0a0a;">You will see the fruit at dawn.</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0a0a0a;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Ruby McKenzie</span></span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9443</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask Him.</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Matthew 6:8</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #0b0b0b;">We must not look on that only as prayer to which our lips give utterance. The wish of the believing heart is counted prayer by God. It is the smoke of the incense which ascends in silence before Him. Every wish that the Holy Spirit breathes into the soul of a believer is a voice which enters the ear of God. </span><em><strong><span style="color: #0b0b0b;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Choice Supplication</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0b0b0b;">Prayer is the soul's sincere desire, uttered or unexpressed, </span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0b0b0b;">The motion of a hidden fire that trembles in the breast;</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0b0b0b;">Prayer is the burden of a sigh, the falling of a tear,</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0b0b0b;">The upward glancing of an eye when none but God is near. </span><strong><span style="color: #0b0b0b;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> James Montgomery</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9444</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Verily God hath heard me, He hath attended to the voice of my prayer.</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Psalm 66:19</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #0e0e0f;">A nineteenth-century magazine rebukes the expression, "REMARKABLE answers to prayers," saying we should think it unacceptable if applied to the case of a boy who took sick away from home and sent to his father for help. We would not say, "Remarkably enough, his father assisted him at once." It would certainly be good if we could expect heavenly succour just as surely as the boy would expect an answer from his father — yet there ought to be a thankful awe for every reply.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0e0e0f;">What will He not bestow?</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0e0e0f;">Who freely gave this mighty gift, unbought,</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0e0e0f;">Unmerited, unheeded, and unsought,</span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: #0e0e0f;">What will He not bestow? </span><strong><span style="color: #0e0e0f;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">(Selected)</span></span></strong><span style="color: #0e0e0f;"><br /></span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #2e0af7; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9445</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 3</span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-43059267655783647102023-11-01T08:45:00.045-04:002023-11-29T18:00:03.571-05:00Gems from November 2023<p><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="color: blue;">These words . . . shall be in thine heart . . . bind them for a sign upon thine </span></strong><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="color: blue;">hand . . . as frontlets between thine eyes. Deuteronomy 6:6,8.</span></strong></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Israelites bound pouches containing specific portions of God’s Word to their foreheads and hands, literally indicating that His words of wisdom were at the forefront of every thought and that His words would strengthen their hands for the day’s labour.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Our mouth is not only for food, but for the spiritual nutrition of His sustaining Word.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1c17f4;">“Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4). </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Bound to our fingers, His words help us manipulate life’s complexities. <strong><span style="color: #770cf3;">“Bind them upon thy fingers, write them upon the table of thine heart.” Proverbs 7:3</span></strong> and at our feet they illuminate our walk. <strong><span style="color: #0c11f7;">“Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.” (Psalm 119:105).</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The Scriptures should be no empty word for us but our every life. <strong><span style="color: #4208f5;">“Set your hearts unto all the words which I testify upon you. (Deuteronomy 32:46).”</span></strong> A daily read is a must!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Sing them over again to me, wonderful words of life;</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Let me more of Thy beauty see wonderful words of life, </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Philip Bliss</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9382</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">That I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings. Philippians 3:10</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Hudson Taylor stopped at no sacrifice in following Christ. “Cross-loving men are needed,” he wrote in the midst of his labours in China, and if he could speak to us today would it not be to call us to the highest of all ambitions; “That I may know Him [the One we, too, supremely love], and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings.” Can we not hear again the tones of His quiet voice as He says: </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">“There is a needs be for us to give ourselves for the life of the world. An easy, non-self-denying life will never be one of power. Fruit-bearing in-and feeding upon the Word through which He reveals Himself to the waiting soul.”</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">It was not easy for Mr. Taylor, in his changeful life, to make time for prayer and Bible study, but he knew that it was vital. Well do the writers remember traveling with him month after month in Northern China, by cart and wheelbarrow, with the poorest of inns at night. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Often with only one large room for coolies and travellers alike, they would screen off a corner for their father and another for themselves, with curtains of some sort; and then, after sleep at last had brought a measure of quiet, they would hear a match struck and see the flicker of candlelight which told that Mr. Taylor, however weary, was pouring over the little Bible in two volumes always at hand. From two to four A. M. was the time he usually gave to prayer; the time when he could be most sure of being undisturbed to wait upon God. That flicker of candlelight has meant more to them than all they have read or heard on secret prayer; it meant reality, not preaching but practise.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The hardest part of a missionary career, Mr. Taylor found, is to maintain </span><span style="color: black;">regular, prayerful Bible study. “Satan will always find you something to </span><span style="color: black;">do,”he would say, “When you ought to be occupied about that, if it is only arranging a window blind. Take time. Give God time to reveal Himself to you. Take time to read His Word as in His presence, that from it you may know what He asks of you and what He promise you.” </span><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Hudson Taylor’s Spiritual Secret</span></span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9383</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3f0cf7;">Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines have tender grapes. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3f0cf7;">Song of Solomon 2:15</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">As I set traps for the little foxes, so now I have to judge in myself anything that would hinder fellowship with Him, that would hinder my spiritual growth. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">What are the little foxes that spoil the vine? I can tell you a good many. There are the little foxes of vanity, of pride, of envy, of evil speaking, of impurity (I think this though is a wolf instead of a little fox).</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Then there are the little foxes of carelessness, of neglect of the Bible, of neglect of prayer, of neglect of fellowship with the people of God. These are the things that spoil the vine, that hinder spiritual growth. Deal with them in the light of the cross of Christ; put them to death before they ruin your Christian experience, do not give them any place. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Song of Solomon - H. A. Ironside</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9384</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">He Humbled Himself</span></span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus. Philippians 2:5-8</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">He that is down need fear no fall:</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">He that is low, no pride. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">He that is humble ever shall</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">Have God to be his guide.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Pilgrim’s progress by J. Bunyan</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">Wouldst thou be great, then lowly serve;</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">Wouldest thou go up, go down;</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">But go as low as e’er you will,</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">The Highest has gone lower still.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Author Unknown</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9385</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3f0cf7;">Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me.” John 14:1</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Many can say with</span><strong><span style="color: #3f0cf7;"> Job (chapter 5:7) </span></strong><span style="color: black;">that man is born unto trouble; for their passage through life is marked by a succession of happenings that have turned existence into one long-drawn-out catastrophe. They tread a path that is beset with difficulties;</span><span style="color: #3f0cf7;"> </span><span style="color: black;">it is</span><strong><span style="color: #3f0cf7;"> “through much tribulation that we enter the kingdom of God”.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">To all believers, therefore, the words in the opening verses of John 14 come laden with comfort, with healing, and with uplifting power. They are words that have consoled the prisoner in his lonely dungeon, the slave in his little cabin, the pilgrim on his weary journey, the martyr marching to his painful death. For the heart trouble there is but one remedy, and and it is prescribed by the Good Physician.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #440cf3;">“Let not your </span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: #440cf3;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">heart</span></span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: #440cf3;"> be troubled.”</span></strong><span style="color: black;">The italicized word includes the entire personality—intellect, emotion, and will. </span><strong><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: #2e11ec;">“Let not your heart be </span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: #2e11ec;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">troubled</span></span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: #2e11ec;">.”</span></strong><span style="color: #2e11ec;"></span><span style="color: black;">The word means, to be agitated, to be disturbed, or thrown into confusion, as its use in </span><strong><span style="color: #240bf6;">John 5:7</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> indicates. To counteract the sorrows which were filling their hearts, the Master imparts to His disciples consolations appropriate to their griefs, and encouragements adapted to their fears. He claims their faith, strengthens their hope, and deepens their love. </span><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 11px;">His Last Words - Henry Durbanville</span></span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9386</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">“Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his cloths not be burned?” </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Proverbs 6:27</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">It does not matter what the alliance, marriage or partnership is, if you cannot honestly take it to God in prayer, then you should have nothing whatever to do with it </span><span style="color: blue;"> </span><span style="color: black;">(see 2 Corinthians 6:14-18).</span><span style="color: blue;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">“Oh,” some people say, “when you are in Rome, you must do as the Romans do.” Must you? If so do not go within a thousand miles of Rome. You will not enjoy heaven a bit less because you have not seen Rome. Keep clear!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Master, we would no longer be</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">At home in that which hated Thee;</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">But patient in Thy footsteps go,</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Thy sorrow and Thy joy to know.</span></span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: blue;"> </span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"> </span></span></strong><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">— J.G. Deck</span></span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9387</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1e0cf7;">Thus saith the Lord…This thing is from Me. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1e0cf7;">1 Kings 12:24 </span><span style="color: black;">(PART 1)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Only five words, but let them sink into your inmost soul, use them as a pillow upon which to rest your weary head. Have you ever thought of it, that all that concerns you, concerns Me too? For he that touches you touches the apple of Mine eye. <strong><span style="color: #290df2;">(Zechariah 2:8)</span></strong>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">“You are very precious in My sight.” <strong><span style="color: #3d14f1;">(Isaiah 43:4)</span></strong> Therefore it is My special delight to educate you. I would have you learn when temptations assail you, and the <strong><span style="color: #1806f4;">“enemy comes in like a flood,” (Isaiah 59:19) </span></strong>that <strong><span style="color: #2716ed;">this thing is from Me</span></strong>, that your weakness needs My might, and your safety lies in letting Me fight for you.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Are you in difficult circumstances, surrounded by people who do not understand you, who never consult your taste, who put you in the background? <strong><span style="color: #250eef;">“This thing is from Me.”</span></strong> I am the God of circumstances, “You came not to this place by accident, it is the very place God meant for you.” Have you not asked to be made humble? See then, I have placed you in the very school where this lesson is taught; your surroundings and companions are only working out My will.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Are you in money difficulties? Is it hard to make both ends meet? <strong><span style="color: #3317db;">“This thing is from Me,”</span></strong> for I am your purse bearer and would have you draw from, and depend upon Me. My supplies are limitless <strong><span style="color: #190dec;">(Philippines 4:19)</span></strong>. I would have you prove My promises. Let it not be said of you, <strong><span style="color: #1118f0;">“In this thing ye did not believe the Lord your God.” (Deuteronomy 1:32) </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Are you passing through a night of sorrow? <strong><span style="color: #2210f7;">“This thing is from Me.”</span></strong> I am the “Man of sorrows and acquainted with grief.” I have let earthly comforts fail you, that by turning to Me you may obtain everlasting consolation. <strong><span style="color: #2716e9;">(2 Thessalonians 2:16-17)</span></strong>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Has some friend disappointed you? One to whom you opened up your heart? <strong><span style="color: #400bf2;">“This thing is from Me.”</span></strong> I have allowed this disappointment to come, that you may learn that: </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">“</span><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">The best friend to have is Jesus He will hear you when you call,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">He will keep you lest you fall, the best friend to have is Jesus.” </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Laura Snow</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9388</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #280bf9;">He shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday. Psalm 37:6 (PART 2)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">I want to be your confidant. Has someone repeated things about you that are untrue? Leave them to Me, and draw closer unto Me, thy shelter, out of reach of </span><strong><span style="color: #0b12f3;">“the strife of tongues,”</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> for </span><strong><span style="color: #0b27f2;">“I will bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday.” (Psalm 37:6).</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Have your plans been all upset? Are you bowed down and weary? </span><strong><span style="color: #330df1;">This thing is from Me.</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> You made your plans, then came asking Me</span><strong><span style="color: black;"> </span></strong><span style="color: black;">to bless them, but I would have you</span><strong><span style="color: black;"> </span></strong>let Me plan for you and then I take the responsibility, for <strong><span style="color: #330fe8;">“This thing is too heavy for thee, thou art not able to perform it thyself alone” (Exodus18:18)</span></strong>. <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">You</span> <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">are only an instrument, not an agent</span>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Have you longed to do some great work for Me, and instead been laid aside on a bed of pain and weakness? <strong><span style="color: #2311f3;">This thing is from Me</span></strong>. I could not get your attention in your busy days, and I want to teach you some of My deepest lessons. “<span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">They also serve who only stand and wait</span>.” </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Some of My greatest workers are those shut out from active service, that they may learn to wield the weapon of prayer. Are you suddenly called upon to occupy a difficult and responsible position? Launch out on Me. I am trusting you with the ”<span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">possession of difficulties</span>,” and <strong><span style="color: #1b0ef6;">“for this thing the Lord thy God shall bless thee in all thy works, and in all that thou puttest thy hand unto.” (Deuteronomy 15:10)</span></strong>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Let every circumstance as it arises, every word that pains you, every interruption that would make you impatient, <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">every revelation of your own weakness, be smoothed out. </span><strong><span style="color: #4408f2;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">“This thing from Me.”</span></span></strong><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"> Remember, interruptions are divine instructions</span>. The sting will go as you learn to see Me in all things. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">Laura Snow </span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert — 9389</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #150df7;">The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in. Psalm 121:8</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Here is a promise-laden psalm to rest in when burdens grow heavy and life’s path becomes steep. When the weight of the load makes us unsteady, we need assurance that God has not given us more than we can carry, and that He will keep us from falling.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">A beautiful picture of how we can face each day with confidence is illustrated in a camel’s day, which begins and ends in the kneeling position. At the end of the day it kneels before the master and has its burden lifted. Sunrise finds the camel again kneeling, and its master adjusts its measured load according to its ability for that day’s journey, whether through the desert or across the watered plains.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">All of us bear some kind of burden <strong><span style="color: #1a07f4;">(Galatians 6:5)</span></strong>. It may be a bundle of small cares made up of everyday duties, but to one with a sensitive nature their combined weight sometimes seems unbearable. Some are burdened for the spiritual welfare of unsaved loved ones or those who are not living for Christ.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Then there are those labouring under the burden of disease, infirmity, weakness, or a handicap. Such weights can turn simple household duties into mountainous chores, and at times a day may stretch out before us as a steep and treacherous path.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Oh, what comfort and encouragement to know that the Lord <strong><span style="color: #0e0bf4;">“preserves our going out and our coming in”</span></strong>— and all our steps from sunrise to sunset. He will keep our feet from slipping and protect us along the way. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">D.J.D.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Lord upholds the faltering step and makes the weak securely stand;</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The burdened ones bowed down with grief are helped by His most gracious hand.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em>With God behind you and His arms beneath you, </em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em>you can face whatever lies ahead of you.</em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9390</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2514e5;">And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there they crucified Him. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2514e5;">Luke 23:33</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">What does Calvary mean to you? To the crowd on that day it was the place of crucifixion and the end (for so they thought) of the Lord.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">To the believer, however, Calvary means so much more. It is the high point of love displayed by our Lord. For it was <em>“at the cross, at the cross, where I first saw the light, and the burden of my heart rolled away.” </em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Tell me, what does Calvary mean to you today? <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">John M. Clegg</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Calvary! O Calvary! Mercy’s vast unfathomed sea,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Love, eternal love to me. Saviour, we adore Thee!</span></strong></em> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">S. Trevor Francis</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9391</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2d1deb;">Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me. (Psalm 23:4)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">At my father’s house in the country there is a little closet in the chimney corner where are kept the canes and walking-sticks of several generations. When my father and I are going out for a walk, we often go to the cane closet, and pick out our sticks to suit the occasion. In this I have frequently been reminded that the Word of God is a staff.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">During the war, when the season of discouragement and pending danger was upon us, the verse, <strong><span style="color: #2008f7;">“He shall not be afraid of evil tidings; his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord,” (Psalm 112:7),</span></strong> was a staff to walk with many dark days.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">When death took away our child and left us almost heart-broken, I found another staff in the promise that <strong><span style="color: #410af6;">“Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.” (Psalm 30:5)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">When in impaired health, I was exiled for a year, not knowing whether I should be permitted to return to my home and work again, I took with me this staff which never failed, <strong><span style="color: #1a0df5;">“He knoweth the thoughts that He thinketh toward me, thoughts of peace and not of evil.” (Jeremiah 29:11)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In times of special danger or doubt when human judgment has seemed to be set at naught, I have found it easy to go forward with this staff <strong><span style="color: #2008f5;">“In quietness and confidence shall be your strength.” (Isaiah 30:15)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In emergencies, when there has seemed to be no adequate time for deliberation or for action, I have never found that this staff has failed me, <strong><span style="color: #4d0cf7;">“He that believeth shall not make haste.” (Isaiah 28:16)</span></strong> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Benjamin Abbott</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9392</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2514e5;">The law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.” </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2514e5;">(John 1:17)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2514e5;">The law was truth, but it was truth without grace. This latter having come by Jesus Christ the believer is exhorted to be speaking the truth in love. (Ephesians 4:15) “Speaking the truth” </span></strong><span style="color: black;">is one word in the original and is a participle. Mr. J. N. Darby suggested coining a word to express it; </span><em><span style="color: black;">“truthing.” </span></em><span style="color: black;">It is not merely speaking the truth. It is being characterized by the truth; but all must be in love.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">A hard and fast intolerant spirit that makes the truth like a series of legal enactments, and is censorious toward those who see not eye to eye with oneself; this is far removed from the Spirit of truth. Lovingkindness will commend the truth, when an acrimonious, judging spirit, will deter the timid from its reception.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">They are to be bound about the neck, in this way displayed in the sight of man; and written upon the heart, thus finding favour with God. </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">H.A. Ironside </span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9393</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #390ef3;">And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and toward men. Acts 24:16</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The word conscience appears more than 30 times in the New Testament. It is the inner monitor of the soul that judges all we do, say, and think. But conscience is not always reliable. While this inner voice passes judgment by either clearing or condemning us, the critical factor is the standard by which it makes these decisions.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">An English writer points out that the conscience has something in common with a sundial. During the hours of daylight when the sun is brightly shining, a sun dial gives a reasonably accurate reading of the time. But when the light from the moon or any other source falls on it, the reading is not at all reliable. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The same is true of man’s conscience. Because it has been darkened by sin, it must be exposed to the light of God’s Word before it can tell us what is right and what is wrong. Without the standard of objective truth in the Bible, our conscience may make us feel comfortable when we do wrong.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The apostle Paul lived so close to the Lord and was so influenced by divine revelation that he could confidently testify in <strong><span style="color: #250fee;">Acts 23:1, “I have lived in all good conscience before God until this day.”</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Christians can enjoy peace of mind only if that inner monitor of the soul is continually sensitized by the Word of God. We must be careful not to let our conscience be deadened. We must not engage in wicked practices nor accept the low moral standards of the world. Do you have a good clear conscience? H. G. B.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">There is a treasure you can own thats greater than a crown or throne:</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">This treasure is a conscious clear that brings the sweetest peace and cheer.</span></strong></em> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Isenhour</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9394</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2e11f8;">Draw me, we will run after Thee. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2e11f8;">The Song of Solomon 1:4</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">There is a beautiful connection between the Lord’s drawing, and our running. <strong><span style="color: #1b0ef7;">“We will run,”</span></strong> but carefully note the last two words—<strong><span style="color: #1e16f3;">”after Thee.” </span></strong> There is much more, much more, in these words than can here be noted. They are all-important. <em><strong><span style="color: #2a0ef4;">“After Thee.”</span></strong></em> not after our own notions, or even after the best of men on earth, but <em><strong><span style="color: #2e0df4;">“after Thee.”</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">As it is said in that beautiful sixteenth <strong><span style="color: #0e10fa;">(Psalm 16:8), “I have set the Lord always before me.” </span></strong><span style="color: black;">Not at times, merely, but</span><strong><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: #0e10fa;">“always”</span></strong>. Oh! what a path ours on earth would be were this the case! How separated would it be from everything that is not Christ. And surely, in all fairness, when we pray, <strong><span style="color: #2d0de8;">“draw me,”</span></strong> we should be ready to add, like the spouse and her companions, <strong><span style="color: #1906f1;">“We will run after Thee.”</span></strong> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Andrew Miller</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9395</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">2 Corinthians 6:2</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Time flies or, as the Romans would say, “tempus fugit”. There is also and expression that says: “Time and time wait for no man.” We can’t stop the passage of time. So, how much do YOU have left? Actually, you cannot even tell if you will be around tomorrow. The past is but a memory, and the future is walled off from our view. We just have to wait for the clock to tick often enough to show us tomorrow; bit by bit.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>The Present -</strong> We live our lives in the moment of NOW. That truism kind of puts life in perspective. Another often-sighted Latin expression is “carpe diem”, meaning, <em>“Seize the day”</em>. Some people take it as <em>“enjoy life, live in the moment, try everything,”</em> in other words <em>“Be careful, you only live once”</em>. That is short-sighted, to say the least!, because God says, there will be a day of reckoning, <strong><span style="color: #2413f2;">(Hebrews 9:27); “And as it is appointed unto men once to die but after this the judgment; So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many.”</span></strong> Since you only die once, this is the point we must consider eternity.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Your personal Time ends when your natural life here comes to an end. But your soul, the spiritual part of you, lives on. Everyone would like that to be in heaven (certainly no one plans to go to hell!). But one life is over, you have no more power to control your eternal destiny. Decisions about that has to be made NOW. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Decide for Christ today - Jesus Christ, God’s only Son had to die in order that the Way into eternal blessings could be offered. You need to come realizing that you could never make your way into God’s favour.</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear. Isaiah 65:24</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Sometimes we find ourselves</span><strong><span style="color: blue;"> </span></strong><span style="color: black;">in circumstances like Peter (Matthew 14: 30,31), which demand an </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;">immediate</span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"> answer to our prayers. Delay may be disastrous. For him, delay meant drowning. At such a time, today’s promise is most precious and peace -producing. But more often, we must become </span><strong><span style="color: #1a12f3;">“followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises” (Hebrews 6:12</span></strong><span style="color: black;">).</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Faith believes God will do it; patience waits for His time to do it. And the waiting period can prove to be a fruitful experience. There are three possible answers to prayer: “yes,” “no,” and “wait.” </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">H. G. Mackay</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">God’s delays are not denials; you will find Him true,</span></span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Working through the darkest trials what is best for you.</span></span></em><span style="color: black;"> - </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">G. T.</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9397 </span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2d1deb;">Judas then, having received a band of men and officers from the chief priests and Pharisees, cometh thither with lanterns and torches and weapons. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2d1deb;">John 18:3 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The Lord comes forth to the band of cruel officers and soldiers, as they were, with this word,</span><strong><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: #2306fa;">“Whom seek ye?” (18:4)</span></strong><span style="color: black;">—thus addressing them as in the </span><em><span style="color: black;">repose</span></em><span style="color: black;"> of heaven, which was His. And He comes forth in the </span><em><span style="color: black;">power</span></em><span style="color: black;"> of heaven, as well as in its repose—for afterwards saying to them, </span><strong><span style="color: #2f07f7;">“I am He,”</span></strong><span style="color: black;">They go backward, and fall to the ground. No man could take His life from Him.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">He has even to show them their prey; for all their torches and lanterns would not otherwise have discovered Him to them. Every stage in the way was His own. He laid down His life of Himself. They that would eat up His flesh must stumble and fall. They that desired His hurt must be turned back and put to confusion. Had the Son of God pleased, there, on the ground, the enemy still have lain. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">He had come, however, not to destroy men’s lives, but to save them;</span><strong><span style="color: #490df8;"> (Luke 9:56)</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> and therefore He would lay down His own. He rather leaves Himself in the hands of enemies. </span><strong><span style="color: #1407f0;">“Then the band and the captain and officers of the Jews took Jesus, and bound Him.” (v.12)</span></strong><span style="color: black;"></span><strong><span style="color: black;"></span></strong><span style="color: black;"> </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">The Evangelists - J. G. Bellett </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9398</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #112df6;">Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning. Psalm 30:5</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Do you want comfort? Nothing can give it so much as the thought of Christ’s coming. There may be sorrow in the night, but joy enough—<em><strong><span style="color: #2a0aec;">”fullness of joy”</span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: #2a0aec;">— (Psalm 16:11)</span></strong> In that morning when we shall see Him as He is: fullness of joy in being <em>like Him and with Him for ever more</em>. <em><strong><span style="color: #150df2;">(1 John 3:2)</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Gleanings - G. V. Wigram</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Soon will the Master come: soon pass away</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Our times of conflict, grief, and suffering here;</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Our night of weeping end in cloudless day,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">And sorrow’s moment like a dream appear;</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Eternity—with Jesus—in the skies—</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">How soon that Sun of righteousness may rise! </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">We shall behold Him, whom not seen we love,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">We shall be with Him, whom we long to see;</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">We shall be like Him, fit for realms above, </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">With Him, and like Him, for eternity!</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Is now to sit at Jesus’ feet our choice?</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">How will fruition then our souls rejoice!</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. G. Deck</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9399</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2d1deb;">And I am sure that, when I come unto you, I shall come in the fullness of the blessing of the gospel of Christ. Romans 15:29</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Nothing perhaps has been a more common source falling out by the way than the holding of favourite religious opinions, or the undue, disproportioned estimation of certain doctrines or points of truth.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">If we were only happy in Him, we should work much better for Him. It is joy in Christ that gains victory over the world. Why are we in subjection to the world? Just because we have not found in Christ all the joy we ought to find.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">It is one thing to be the advocate of Christianity, and another to be the disciple of it. And though it may sound strange at first, far easier is it to </span><em><span style="color: black;">teach</span></em><span style="color: black;"> its lessons than to </span><em><span style="color: black;">learn</span></em><span style="color: black;"> them.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">We need not so much to covet information about Him as power to use divinely what we know. </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">J.G. Bellet </span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9400</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">They which builded on the wall, and they that bare burdens, with those that laded </span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">(loaded)</span></span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: blue;">, everyone with one of his hands wrought in the work, and with the other hand held a weapon. Nehemiah 4:17 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">No soldier on service is ever “laid aside”; he is only given another commission, sometimes just to suffer (we are not told yet the use of that), sometimes, when pain and weakness lessen a little, to fight among the unseen forces of the field. Never, never is he shelved as of no further use to his Beloved Captain. To feel so, even for a moment, is to be terribly weakened and disappointed. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The soldier must let his Captain say where, and for what, He needs him most, and he must not cloud his mind with questions. A wise master never wastes his servant’s time, nor a commander his soldier’s—there is great comfort in remembering that.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">There is no discharge in our warfare. No not for a single day. We may be called to serve on the visible field. We may be called off the visible. That dreary word “laid aside” is never for us; we are soldiers of the King of kings. Soldiers are not shelved. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Rose From Briar - Amy Carmichael</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9401</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Daniel…Kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed. Daniel. 6:10. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It is well to accustom oneself to stated seasons of prayer, and to refuse to allow even pressing business to turn one aside. Who has not heard of the white handkerchief in front of General “Chinese Gordon’s'' tent? The sentry, pacing to and fro, allowed no courier to enter—no matter how urgent - till that handkerchief was removed. It indicated that Gordon was having an audience with God, and all other matters must wait. How often it is otherwise with many of us. God is put last! </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">H.A.Ironside</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">I’m busy! No, I cannot stay,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">A thousand things call me away;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Tomorrow I will stop to pray.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And so I lost me one great day.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J. Hiebert 9402</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2d1deb;">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 :4,7 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">THE TYRNNY OF WORRY</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">One does not need to travel very far along the road of life before one discovers that probably the greatest foe with which the human heart has to contend is worry. The terrible havoc which it works is written on the faces of men and women everywhere.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It destroys the vitality of the body, turns the mind into a seething caldron of unrest, and robs the soul of peace. No one is exempt from its attacks; for it possesses the fatal power of entering the palace of the king as easily as it does the humblest cottage in the land. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Since the grace that makes us Christians still leaves us men, we too— believers in the Lord Jesus Christ—are faced by this demon of worry; and it may be helpful to enquire how it is that we so frequently get into its grip; to show how sadly it hinders us in our witness for God; and to point out how we may be finally delivered from its power. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Our theme then is: worry—its prevalence, uselessness and baselessness ; its causes, consequences and cure. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Heaven’s Cure for Earth’s Care - George Henderson</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert—9403</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">(To be continued)</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2d1deb;">WORRY - ITS CAUSES</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1815e8;">Casting all your care upon Him, for He careth for you. 1 Peter 5:7</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">By reason of our complex personality, we stand related to three realms of being—physical, mental and spiritual; and worry may come to us from any one of these. On the physical plane, life for very many is a constant battle for the bread that perisheth; and the worry that reaches us from this source is largely occasioned by such questions as: what shall we eat? What shall we drink? or wherewithall shall we be clothed? <strong><span style="color: #2d1deb;"> (Matthew 6:31)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Mentally, some are so constituted that they live in perpetual dread of coming disaster. An incurable malady is imagined to be on its way, an impending doom, an overhanging sword is already perceived.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Finally, in the spiritual realm, the happenings of the hour frequently furnish occasion for our faithless hearts to doubt the tenderness of God. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Now it is an indisputable fact that, people worry more about their imaginary troubles than they do about those which are actually upon them.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The troubles that never come form the heaviest part of our daily load. The worry and the fear caused by these apprehended miseries often work said havoc with brain and nerves. The actual sorrows, the bereavements, the disappointments, have their comfort and cure. But there is no cure for the troubles that never come. They are haunting ghosts, unsubstantial as mist, yet very real in their depressing and harmful power over us. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Heaven’s Cure for Earth’s care. George Henderson </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9404 </span><strong><span style="color: black;">(To be continued)</span></strong></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2d1deb;">Draw me, we will run after Thee! Song of Solomon1:4</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Were I to read the heart of the loving bride through these words, I should say that her desire to be near the person of the Lord is so great that, near and dear though she be, there is something like distance experienced. Hence the deep breathings of her heart, <strong><span style="color: #2d1deb;">“Draw me”</span></strong>—oh! draw me nearer—closer—my Lord, to Thee! The more we know of Christ the more we shall desire to know of Him.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The nearer we are to Him, the more we shall desire to be drawn nearer still. As Paul says, <strong><span style="color: #2d1deb;">“That I may know Him” (Philippians 3:10)</span></strong>, and yet none on earth knew Him so well! Do you speak thus, my soul, to yourself? Do you know this in you own experience?</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">There is a beautiful connection between the Lord’s drawing and our running. Note the last two words—not after our own notions, or even after the best of men on earth—but <strong><span style="color: #2d1deb;">“after Thee”</span></strong>. The one who draws, goes before. Thus the Lord goes before His people in the wilderness and sees the danger and meets it before they come to it. Many, many are the dangers He delivers us from that we know nothing about.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">A snare may be laid for us by the enemy in the way that we said we would go; but our divine Leader, seeing the snare, turns into another path, leads in another direction, and the snare which might have proved fatal is escaped. And yet I may feel so disappointed and so discontented because something hindered me from reaching my previously appointed place.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Blessed Lord, may we ever and only <strong><span style="color: #2d1deb;">“run after Thee!”</span></strong> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Andrew Miller</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9405</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">ANXIETY—ITS CURE</span><span style="color: #2d1deb;"><br /></span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2d1deb;">As thy days, so shall thy strength be. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2d1deb;">Deuteronomy 33:25</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Sometimes, “says John Newton, “I compare the troubles we have to undergo in the course of a year to a great bundle of sticks far too large for us to lift. But God does not require us to carry the whole at once. He mercifully unties the bundles, and gives us first one stick, which we are able to carry today, and then another, which we are able to carry tomorrow, and so on. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">This we can easily manage, if we could only take the burden appointed for us each day; but we chose to increase our trouble by carrying yesterday’s stock over again today, and adding tomorrow’s burden before we are required to bear it.”</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Heaven’s Cure for Earth’s Care—George Henderson </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Apart from the woes that are past and gone </span></span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">And the shadow of future care,</span></span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">The heaviest load of the present hour </span></span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Is easy enough to bear.</span></span><strong><span style="color: #2d1deb;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"> </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"><span>N.J. Hiebert - 9406</span></span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2514e5;">What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2514e5;">Rom. 8:31-32</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Trust... in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy. </span></strong><strong><span style="color: blue;">1 Tim. 6:17</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">His love has no limit,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">His grace has no measure,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">His power no boundary known unto</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">men;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">For out of His infinite</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Riches in Jesus</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">He giveth and giveth and giveth again.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9407</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1c19f3;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Men ought always to pray, and not to faint.</span></span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1c19f3;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Luke 18:1</span></span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">A man, past eighty years, stood in a prayer meeting and said,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">"Friends, I would like to share with you my joy today. Sixty-five years ago my dying mother said to me, 'You are the only Christian in the family so I commend your brothers to you. Pray for them every day until they are saved.' This morning I received a letter from my remaining brother, in which he said he had the very best news - he was saved!" Are your prayers yet to be answered? Keep on praying!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">I will pray on. Though distant it may seem, The answer may be almost at my door, Or iust around the corner on its way.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">But whether near or far, yes, I shall pray - I will pray on.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">- E. L. Mapes</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J. Hiebert 9408</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">We love </span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: blue;">Him</span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: blue;">, because He first loved us. 1 John 4:19</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">If you consult the Greek you will find that one word does not appear. Correctly we read, “</span><em><strong><span style="color: #112cf2;">We love, because He first love us.</span></strong></em><span style="color: black;">” Maybe some of you feel that you have lost something, you like to think, “<span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">We love </span></span><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Him </span>because He </span></span></em><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">first loved us</span>.” But take it just as the Spirit of God originally wrote it, “</span><strong><span style="color: #2508f6;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">We love, because He first loved us.</span></span></strong><span style="color: black;">” Think it over, and you will see how much more precious that is after all.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Many a one will talk about loving Him who has not very much </span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">love for His</span></span><span style="color: black;">! How easy it is to talk about loving Christ and loving God, and yet be cold and unkind and discourteous toward those for whom Jesus died. The test of whether we really love Him is found in the way we behave toward His, and what a test that is! You say you love Him, but you do not love Him a bit more than you love the child of God of whom you think the least.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Just try to think who that is, that cantankerous, cross-grained person who always seems to upset you, and yet you know that that one belongs to the Lord Jesus Christ, that he is a member of Christ's Body. You do not love Christ any more than you love His members, and so "<span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">We love, because He first loved us.</span>"</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">When our hearts are occupied with His wondrous love, we remember that He loved us when we were unlovely, and some of us are not very lovely now; we remember that He loved us when we were unlovable, and some of us are not very lovable yet. If He could do that when we were rebellious, and if that same love is now shed abroad in our hearts, we ought to be able to love those who are sinful and unkind and selfish. It is love triumphing in the midst of evil. </span><strong><span style="color: #340df8;">“We love because He first loved us.”</span></strong><span style="color: black;"></span><span style="color: black;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Epistles</span></strong></em></span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"> of John — H. A. Ironside </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9409</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 28</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Now is the accepted time; behold now </span><span style="color: #1311ef;">is the day of salvation. 2 Corinthians 6:2</span></strong>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>The Mystery at the End</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Sooner or later, we’ll face the end of life sometime in the future. What then? Writers and philosophers have many varied answers, but the fact remains, we can’t see beyond that Mystery Wall with certainty. We can wish for a blissful paradise, a land of plenty where the sun always shines, or we can take the “cop out” position: that there is only oblivion to come. No God, no heaven, no hell; just nothing.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Unless</strong> - Unless we turn to what God says in His Word, the Holy Bible speaking to us all. It starts at page one: in the beginning, God. From before time began, God was, always was, is now and always will be. Reading on: God created the heaven and the earth. His creative power points clearly to His eternal existence. The heavens declare the glory of God and the firmament shows His handiwork. <strong><span style="color: #3a11ee;">(Psalm 19:1)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Look at <strong><span style="color: #0c09ef;">(Romans1:20)</span></strong> For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead, so that they (we) are without excuse. Believe these basic truths and you are well on your way to actually KNOWING your destiny beyond your lifespan on earth.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>One Route to Heaven</strong> - Everyone makes the choice whether to look diligently for God’s only way, or ignore it at their peril. The default position is <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Hell forever</span>. The Old Testament part of the Bible, two-thirds of it, firmly establishes that we can do nothing by our own strength, logic, keeping the Ten Commandments or will power to make our way into heaven. All have sinned and come short of the glory of God. <strong> (Romans 3:23)</strong>. The New Testament tells us exactly how to go about it.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The route is summed up in several specific verses. If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved. This is an absolute promise from God. The Old Testament has many illustrative true stories pointing to Jesus’ birth, life, death, resurrection and ascension; but we read the details about these events in the New Testament. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lorne Perry for Vision 2020 in 2023 </span></strong> <strong><span style="font-size: 11px;">(To be continued)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9410</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>The Mystery at the end - (continued)</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3d13f4;">For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (John 3:16) </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>One Book Inspired by God </strong>- God’s Holy Spirit guided faithful men to write down His thoughts for us, and the resulting book has been remarkably preserved for thousands of years (example; <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">recent</span> <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">discovery</span> of the Dead Sea Scrolls written in Bible times). Even if your Bible, is left on the shelf unopened, that does not change what it says. You are already guilty before God and badly need a rescue package. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">That package is yours by faith in Jesus Christ, God’s only and eternal Son. He is presented as the ONLY way. He declared I am the way, the truth and the life, no man comes to the Father (God) but by Me. <strong><span style="color: #2114f0;">John 14:6</span></strong>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>One Thing to do? -</strong> First, realize that you can do nothing by your own strength, logic or will power to get into heaven. It’s only by believing what God says about His Son. When on earth, the Lord Jesus declared in <strong><span style="color: #0e1bf7;">John 3:17</span></strong>: God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him, might be saved.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Now in <strong>Romans 3:22:</strong> even the righteousness of God which is by faith of Jesus Christ unto all and upon all them that believe. There is no room for believing collectively; it is an individual and personal matter.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>One step to Jesus</strong> - Take it now! Come believing what God says about you, and about His Son, Jesus Christ. Once the deal is done, you have Eternal Life from that very moment. Plus you have peace with God now your loving Father. And you have Jesus as your Saviour, Shepherd and Friend. You have nothing to lose, and everything to gain. The Mystery Wall crumbles and you have no more uncertainty about your future beyond this life. Jesus will be there waiting to take you to paradise. And so shall we ever be with the Lord. <strong><span style="color: #0715f9;">(1 Thessalonians 4:17)</span></strong>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lorne for Vision 2020 in 2023 </span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J. Hiebert 9411</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 30</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2d1deb;">Therefore have I set my face like a flint, and I know that I shall not be ashamed. Isaiah 50:7</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2d1deb;">It came to pass, when the time was come that He should be received up, </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2d1deb;">He steadfastly set His face to go to Jerusalem. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2d1deb;">Luke 9:51</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2d1deb;">Then came the day of unleavened bread, when the Passover must be killed. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2d1deb;">Luke 22:7 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: #2d1deb;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-size: 14px;">Himself He could not save; He on the cross must die,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Or mercy cannot come to ruined sinners nigh.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Yes, Christ, the Son of God, must bleed, </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">That sinners might from sin be freed. </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Himself He could not save; for justice must be done; </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Our sins full weight must fall upon the sinless One;</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">For nothing less can God accept</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">In payment of that fearful debt.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Himself He could not save, For He the surety stood </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">For all who now rely upon His precious blood; </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">He bore the penalty of guilt</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">When on the cross His blood was spilt.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Himself He could not save, Love’s stream too deeply flowed,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">In love Himself He gave, to pay the debt we owed.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Obedience to His Father’s will, </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">And love to Him did all fulfil.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">And now exalted high—a Prince and Saviour He,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">That sinners might draw nigh and drink of mercy free,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Of mercy now so richly shed, </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">For Jesus liveth who was dead. </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">A. Midlane</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9412</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #210ff3;">Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #210ff3;">1 Corinthians 9:24</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Ye were running well! Paul loves the picture of the race. In <strong><span style="color: #250df9;">1 Corinthians 9:24-27</span></strong>, he exhorts the Corinthian believers from the same picture: <strong><span style="color: #2013f6;">”So run, that ye may obtain!”</span></strong> In <strong><span style="color: #390ef6;">Galatians 2:2</span></strong> and <strong><span style="color: #1609f5;">Philippians 2:16</span></strong>, Paul speaks of himself in his own race, that he had not run in vain, or to no purpose. In <strong><span style="color: #1f12f7;">Philippians 3:12-14</span></strong>, Paul sees himself still as the runner, but drawing nearer the end of the race.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The goal is in sight, and that is not the time to relax; on the contrary, now is the time to put forth all his strength, so “down to the goal I press!” As he parted from his dear Ephesian brethren he thinks of the time when, the race finished, the goal passed, the prize won, only the joy remains: <strong><span style="color: #170af5;">“…neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy.” (Acts 20:24)</span></strong>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It is the Greek word for the race course that Paul uses here once again. And in <strong><span style="color: #0f0df2;">2 Timothy 4:7</span></strong>, using the same word, he sees the race is over: <strong><span style="color: #350ff1;">“I have finished my course </span></strong>(again, the word means <strong><span style="color: #0c0ee4;">“race course”)…henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness.”</span></strong> This was not the kingly crown of royalty, but it was the victor’s wreath that the winner of the race received at the Olympic Games. That wreath was made of leaves, a corruptible crown. ” But the crown that we receive is <strong><span style="color: #0a12f3;">“an incorruptible”</span></strong> one <strong><span style="color: #1223f3;">(1 Corinthians 9:25)</span></strong>. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Meditations on Galatians - G. C. Willis</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9413</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3508f5;">I sat down under his shadow with great delight. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3508f5;">Song of Solomon 2:3</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Communion with God is the retiring place of the heart. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">If living in communion with God we are not thinking of ourselves. <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Moses did not know his face shone when when every one else did</span>. He had been looking up out of himself and turned towards the earth, bearing upon him the light of heaven. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">None can be so intimately near us as God, for He is in us. Yet what an intimacy it is!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The cross and the crown go together; and, more than this, the cross and communion go together. The cross touches my natural will, and therefore it breaks down and takes away that which hinders communion. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">If I am not in communion it is for the Holy Spirit to speak to my conscience, instead of using me. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">May our work be a work of faith, drawing its strength, its existence even from our communion with God our Father.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In speaking of God’s truth, whenever we cannot “speak as the oracles of God” through communion, it is our business to be silent. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">I may study the word again and again, but unless I get into communion with Him by it, it will profit me nothing—at least at that time.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">What is the joy of a Redeemer but the joy and communion, the happiness of His redeemed? <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Pilgrim Portions for the Day of Rest - J. N. Darby </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9414</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #101cee;">Attend unto me, and hear me: I mourn in my complaint, and make a noise; because of the voice of the enemy, because of the oppression of the wicked. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #101cee;">Psalm 55:2,3</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">I have been driven many times to my knees by the over-whelming conviction that I had nowhere else to go. My own wisdom, and that of all about me, seemed insufficient for the day. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Abraham Lincoln</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">What e’er the care that breaks your rest, </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">What e’er the wish that swells your breast;</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Spread before God that wish, that care,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">And change anxiety to prayer. </span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J. Hiebert 9415</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 4</span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-30842084126047713812023-10-01T06:30:00.042-04:002023-10-30T16:46:33.002-04:00Gems from October 2023<p> <span style="font-size: x-large;">October 1</span></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. Revelation 21:4</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">I have not the thought of what we shall do in glory: my thought is, </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;">Christ will be there</span></strong></em><span style="color: black;">. I shall be in the place where everything is ruled by the mind of Christ.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Have you known down here the calming effect of realizing His presence, hearing Him</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">breathing out like oil on the waters, </span><strong><span style="color: #1c0cf2;">“It is I!”</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> What will it be to be in a world where all is subject to Him who gives such peace even here! What will heaven be, when all that He is, all His perfect grace, will come out to us in the Father’s house!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">What will it be where everything will be attuned to the name of Jesus! The full stream of His affections will flow over and spread blessing everywhere, </span><strong><span style="color: #1b11ef;">“His fullness” (John 1:16)</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> poured forth to fill every heart, and every heart perfectly filled and satisfied with it. </span><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Gleanings From the Teaching of G. V. Wigram</span></span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">What will it be to dwell above, and with the Lord of glory reign, </span></span></strong></em><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Since the blest knowledge of HIs love so brightens all this dreary plain? </span></span></strong></em><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">No heart can think, no tongue can tell what joy ‘twill be with Christ to dwell.</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">When left this scene of faith and strife, the flesh and sense deceive no more, </span></span></strong></em><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">When we shall see the Prince of life, and all His works of grace explore: </span></span></strong></em><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">What heights and depths of love divine will there through endless ages shine!</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">And God has fixed the happy day when the last tear shall dim our eyes; </span></span></strong></em><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">When He will wipe these tears away, and fill our hearts with glad surprise; </span></span></strong></em><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">To hear His voice, and see His face, and know the fullness of His grace. </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. Swain - 1792 </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.HIebert - 9352</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #4504f9;">Hast Thou considered My servant Job. Job 1:8</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Job, a wealthy Oriental sheik, lived in the days before the knowledge of God had been lost, though it is evident that idolatry, particularly the worship of the heavenly bodies, already had supplanted in places the older worship. For, be it remembered, paganism is not a step upward in the evolution of religion.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">It is rather a declension, as Romans 1 shows us. Men turned from the living and true God to these vain idols, and </span><strong><span style="color: #240af8;">“for this cause God gave them up“ (Romans 1:26)</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> to all sorts of unclean practices. But Job had escaped all this. He was perfect in his behaviour, upright in all his ways, one who reverenced God and detested iniquity.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">In chapters 1 and 2, we get a remarkable revelation of things in the unseen world. Job is the subject of a conversation between God and Satan, </span><strong><span style="color: #3c07f5;">“the accuser of the brethren.” (Revelation 12:10)</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> </span><strong><span style="color: #0b15f5;">who accuses them before God day and night</span></strong><span style="color: black;">. The Lord challenges Satan, </span><strong><span style="color: #440bf3;">“Hast thou considered My servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth…one that feareth God, and eschewth evil?</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> (blameless and upright) </span><strong><span style="color: #4a12f8;">(Job 1:8)</span></strong><span style="color: black;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Note, Job was all that God said he was—a man of faith, a true child of God. This book gives us, then, not the repentance of a sinner, but the repentance of a saint.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Satan denies the truthfulness of the divine estimate of Job and particularly declares that Job does not love and reverence the Lord for what He is in Himself, but for what Job receives at His hand. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">To prove the contrary, the devil is permitted to wrest from the patriarch all that he possessed. Instead of renouncing God, Job exclaims, </span><strong><span style="color: #3e16f7;">“The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord” (Job 1:21).</span></strong><span style="color: black;">Thus far Satan is defeated, but he is relentless. </span><strong><span style="color: #170df3;">“Shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil?” (Job 2:10) </span></strong><span style="color: black;"> He glorifies God in the fires. Satan is defeated. Job is loyal and loves God for Himself alone, and not simply for His gifts. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">It is a marvellous thing thus to find one to whom God means more than all earthly possessions, yes, than life itself. </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Unless You Repent - H. A. Ironside </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9353</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #160bf4;">For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #160bf4;">John 3:16</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>How wondrous the glories that meet in Jesus, and from His face shine. </strong></em><em><strong>His love is eternal and sweet; ‘tis human, ‘tis also divine!</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>His glory—not only God’s Son—in manhood He had His full part— </strong></em><em><strong>And the union of both joined in one forms the fountain of love in His heart.</strong></em> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Robert </span></strong></em><span style="font-size: 9px;"> </span><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Hawker</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It was love, divine, precious, unspeakable love that led Him to die for us on that accursed tree, and, if you believe on Him, you have eternal life through His death. I say receive it, believe it. You may tell me you cannot understand it. No, but <em>what I cannot understand I can believe, what I cannot fathom I can swim in,</em> what I cannot comprehend I can enjoy I know that God’s Son has died for me, and I know that the source of all blessing is in His perfect love.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>Could I with ink the ocean fill, were every blade of grass a quill, </strong></em><em><strong>Were the whole heaven of parchment made, and every man a scribe by trade;</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>To write the love of God above would drain the ocean dry, </strong></em><em><strong>Nor could th<span style="font-size: 15px;">e scroll contain the whole, though stretched from sky to sky</span></strong></em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">F. M. Lehman</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Think of being loved by God after such a sort, and yet not believing it. Believe it now, my friend and you will have everlasting life. But you tell me, I do not know for whom this everlasting life is. The answer is here: it is for <strong><span style="color: #4c19ea;">“<span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">whosoever believeth in Him.</span>”</span></strong> Believing in Jesus, you shall not perish, but have everlasting life. You will be brought into everlasting blessing, in association with the Son of God. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">What you have to do is to trust Him, bow down your heart to Him, and then confess Him. That is the way of salvation. For it is added, <strong><span style="color: #4f13f5;">“God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved.” (John 3:17)</span></strong> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Night Scenes of Scripture - W. T. P. Wolston </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9354</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #300bfa;">Peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid. John 14:27</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Our Lord’s desire, because of His wondrous salvation, which we as Christians possess, can also dismiss our fears because of the revelation of the many mansions (v2), and our assured arrival there (V3); of Him Who is <strong><span style="color: #2112f6;">“the way”</span></strong> Home (v.6); of the unveiling of God in the person of our Lord (v.9); of the works which we shall do as we pass through this world of sorrow (v12). </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Of the abiding companionship of the Comforter (v16); of the fact that the Triune God, by His spirit, now indwells us (vs.17and 23); and likewise the fact that He promised to keep, in unbroken serenity, the heart that is stayed on Him (v.27); </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2411e5;">Thou wilt keep Him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee: because he trusted in Thee.” (Isaiah 26:3)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Light that groweth not pale with day’s decrease, </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Love that never shall cease,</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Joy no sorrow can mar,</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Hope that shineth afar,</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Faith serene as a star,</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">And Christ’s own peace.</span></strong> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">H. Durbanville </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9355</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3e18ee;">Jesus Christ, who is the faithful witness, and the first begotten of the dead. Revelation 1:5 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The Creator-God cannot die, but He stepped into manhood <em><strong>in order to die</strong></em> for God’s glory, as the whole human race had dishonoured Him. The Lord Jesus entered the world He had created, where <strong><span style="color: #112eec;">“All have sinned (Romans 3:23)</span></strong> and the whole creation suffers <strong><span style="color: #2d09f2;">(v.8:22</span></strong><span style="color: #2d09f2;">)</span>, <em><strong>but He honoured God</strong></em>. He also came <em><strong>to die</strong></em>—once the appointed time had come—as the ultimate Sacrifice to glorify God and for our salvation.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Luke put all these things in their actual historic and geographic context. He told how the Saviour-God came into the world at that exact time, born in the city of David, Bethlehem, meaning <strong><span style="color: #0f0ff5;">”house of Bread,”</span></strong> for He is <strong><span style="color: #0d12f4;">“the Bread of life” </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0d12f4;">(John 6:35)</span></strong>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The virgin Mary was betrothed to marry Joseph, still a virgin, with child, through the work of the Holy Spirit <strong><span style="color: #1d12fa;">(Matthew 1:18)</span></strong>. When the day had come, <strong><span style="color: #2911e9;">“she brought forth her firstborn Son”</span></strong>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Jesus is to be <strong><span style="color: #290be6;">“the Firstborn among many brethren” (Romans 8:29)</span></strong>. Today, all true believers belong to the family of Him who is <strong><span style="color: #2618f1;">“The Image of the invisible God, the Firstborn of every creature.” (Colossians 1:15)</span></strong> As <strong><span style="color: #130ee7;">“Firstborn from the dead,”</span></strong> He is linked with all who belong to the new creation <strong><span style="color: #3110e2;">(Colossians 1:18)</span></strong>. Soon God will introduce Him as <strong><span style="color: #1403f9;">“the first begotten of the dead.” (Revelation 1:5)</span></strong> to rule over the universe.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">What a privilege to be identified with Him. Praise be to Him forever! <strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Alfred E. Bouter</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9356</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">David said…The Lord forbid that I should stretch forth mine hand against the Lord’s anointed. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">1 Samuel 26:11</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Saul says: ”I have sinned…I will no more do thee harm…I have acted foolishly, and have erred exceedingly.” (v21)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">How many times had he not already said or acknowledged that this was so? Did that change his ways in the least? Often we allow ourselves to be deceived by </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">appearances when it is a matter of appreciating the condition of souls. David is not fooled. He confides in God alone and not at all in Saul’s feelings. He returns his weapons to him, knowing that Saul can do nothing without God’s will.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The king’s life had been precious to David, but David does not count on his life being precious to Saul. And, behold, as thy life was highly esteemed this day in mine eyes, so let my life be highly esteemed in the eyes of the Lord. </span><strong><span style="color: #2815ef;">(v24)</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> He counts on the Lord. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The life of David, a flea, a partridge on the mountain. </span><strong><span style="color: #3c0ef3;">(v20)</span></strong><span style="color: black;">, is of great price in the eyes of Him who had chosen him, called him, and kept him as the apple of His eye. Thus God glorifies Himself in those who are little and weak. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">1 Samuel - Dr. Henri L. Rossier </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9357</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0e31f5;">He hath put down the mighty from their seats, and exalted them of low degree. He hath filled the hungry with good things; and the rich He hath sent empty away.” Luke 1:52-53</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">These words of Mary have an ever-present application. This is the same levelling doctrine as that proclaimed by John the Baptist. It is the <strong><span style="color: #2112f4;">“no difference”</span></strong> doctrine of the apostle Paul . <strong><span style="color: #2516f2;">“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God. (Romans 3:23)</span></strong>. Yet how the human heart rebels against it. How men pride themselves on fancied distinctions which God’s eye does not discern.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">“Must I be saved in the same way as my coachman?” indignantly asked a distinguished lady. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">“Madam,” was the faithful reply. “you do not need to be saved at all. But if you ever are saved, it will be on exactly the same ground as any other poor sinner.”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Years ago, I was amazed to hear an eloquent French evangelist, Paul J. Loizeaux, exclaim, “Oh, how hard it is to find sinners! If only I could find one, I have a marvellous message for him.” A moment’s thought made his meaning clear. <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">To be a sinner is one thing; to know it is another</span>. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Except You Repent - H. A. Ironside </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Suffer a sinner whose heart overflows, loving his Saviour to tell what he knows;</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Once more to tell it would I embrace—I’m only a sinner saved by grace.</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">James Gray</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9358</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #121cf3;">I pray before Thee now, day and night. Nehemiah 1:6</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">No man is greater than his prayer life. It was said of Edwin Payson, “Prayer was preeminently the business of his life.” George Whitfield said, “Whole days have I spent prostrate in prayer.” </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">A friend of Tersteegen commented, “It seemed to me as if he had gone straight into</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">heaven while he prayed.”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>I often say my prayers, but do I really pray? </strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>And do the wishes of my heart go with the words I say?</strong></em> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. Burton</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1515f1;">Follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1515f1;">2 Timothy 2:22</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">James Martinaeu said that Christianity was “no more possible without prayer than poetry without language, or music without atmosphere.”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And Oxtavius Winslow adds,”Prayer is the pulse of the renewed soul: and the constancy of its beat is the best test and measure of the spiritual life.”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>O Thou by Whom we come to God the Life, the Truth, the Way </strong></em><em><strong>The path of prayer Thyself hast trod Lord, teach us how to pray. </strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">James Montgomery</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9359</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2714ed;">Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you. 1 Peter 5:7</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Does Jesus care when my heart is pained too deeply for mirth and song;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">As the burdens press, and the cares distress, And the way grows weary and long?</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">O yes, He cares, I know He cares, His heart is touched with my grief;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">When the days are weary, the long night dreary, I know my Saviour cares.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Does Jesus care when my way is dark with a nameless dread and fear?</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">As the daylight fades into deep night shades, does He care enough to be near?</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Does Jesus care when I’ve tried and failed to resist some temptation strong;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">When for my deep grief there is no relief, though my tears flow all the night long?</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Does Jesus care when I’ve said “goodbye” to the dearest on earth to me,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And my sad heart aches till it nearly breaks, is it aught to Him? Does He see?</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Frank E. Graeff</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Mr. Greaff wrote more than two hundred hymns in his lifetime, but none has been more consoling to God’s people than this text.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9360</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">As for me, God forbid that I should sin against the Lord in ceasing to pray for you. </span><span style="color: #4515ec;">1 Samuel 12:23 </span></strong><span style="color: #4111ec;">.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Whoever ceases to pray for one he loves, fails in the most sacred duty of love, because he withholds love’s best help. It is pleasant to think that we can render this best of all services for others even when we are unable to do any work on their behalf.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">A “shut-in” who can run no errands and lift no burdens, and speak no words of cheer to busy toilers and sore strugglers in the great world, can yet pray for them, and God will send them truest help! <em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">J. R. Miller</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Yes, pray for those you love. If uncounted wealth were thine,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">The treasure of the boundless deep, the riches of the mine,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">You could not to your cherished friends a gift so dear impart,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">As the earnest benediction of a deeply prayerful heart.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<wbr></wbr>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<wbr></wbr>~~~~~~~~</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3d15f5;">Teach us to pray. Luke 11:1</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">We should pray in the spirit of the prophet Daniel. Not only did he come down to the level of the people of Israel when he said, <strong><span style="color: #190ef7;">“We have sinned,”</span></strong>but he also lifted them up with himself to God in repentance and supplication and when he said, <strong><span style="color: #3f08e9;">“We . . . present our supplication before Thee” (Daniel 9:8,18)</span></strong>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Daniel was praying alone. He was able to lift the nation of Israel into the presence of God in his intercessions. This was the turning point of Judah’s captivity. From that moment the wisdom and power of God wrought for their recovery. What results the supplication of one person may accomplish! </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>O Thou by Whom we come to God, the Life, the Truth, the Way!</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>The path of prayer Thyself hast trod teach us how to pray! </strong></em> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Selected</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9361</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 18px;">Broken Pieces</span></span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Matt. 14:20 “Fragments” Mark 6:43 “Fragments” </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Luke 9:17</span></strong> <strong><span style="color: #1124ec;">“Fragments” John 6:12 “Fragments”</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Have you ever felt at the end of the day that you had nothing to offer bur <em><strong>“broken pieces”</strong></em> of things? In the morning we put our day in our Lord’s hands. Then we begin to do His work, but we are not able to do nearly as much as we had hoped.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Interruptions came and broke up our plans, and the evening finds us a little disappointed. “I hoped to do so much, and I have done nothing worth bringing to Thee”—that is how we feel.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">I have been finding new comfort in the two words which are used by each of the four evangelists in telling the end of the story of the feeding of the Five Thousand. they speak of <em><strong>“broken pieces”</strong></em>, and the same words are used by two in telling of the later miracle. <strong><span style="color: #0e09f6;">(Matthew 15:37</span></strong> and <strong><span style="color: #2814f6;">Mark 8:8) </span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">There was nothing over but <strong><span style="color: #2511f6;">“broken pieces”</span></strong>, and yet of those fragments our Lord said, <strong><span style="color: #2e19d6;">“Gather them up that nothing be lost”</span></strong> <em><strong><span style="color: #280fef;">(John 6:12). </span></strong><span style="color: black;">Even so, our dear Lord</span></em> cares for, the <em><strong>broken pieces</strong></em> of our lives, the fragments of all we meant to do, the little that we have to gather up and offer, and He will use even these fragments. He will not let even the least of our little broken things be lost. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Amy Carmichael</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9362</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #200bf3;">Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins. 1 John 4:10 </span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Heaven will be when I have entirely forgotten myself, and am filled with God. That very same love which will fill heaven was manifested in the cross; for there it put all my sins away, and in heaven there are none.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">I want something on which my soul may be stayed. Well, God loves me; and that which makes me know how much He loves me is, that He gave His Son for me. Then, as my soul rests upon this love of God, no measure of failure can be adequate to shake my confidence, as I estimate God’s love in the gift of His Son. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The enjoyment of this love is another thing, and that is carried on by the daily and hourly communion with God as our Father, by the Spirit in us.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Close to Thy trusted side, in fellowship divine;</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">No cloud, no distance, e’er shall hide, glories that then shall shine.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Fruit of Thy boundless love, that gave Thyself for us;</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Forever we shall with Thee prove that Thou still lov’st us thus.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">We wait to see Thee, Lord, yet now within our hearts</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Thou dwell’st in love that doth afford the joy that love imparts.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">J. N. Darby</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9363</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>The Three Sieves</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary?</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2314f4;">Can the fig tree, my brethren, bear olive berries? Either a vine, figs? </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2314f4;">James 3:12</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">All of us who have tried to remember these three sieves, and have used them, know what a help they are. We are sorry when we ever forget them, and we are very grateful when we are reminded of them in time to keep us from saying something untrue, unkind, or unnecessary. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Sometimes when I listen to hymn-singing I think of the words about the fig tree and the vine and the fountain. <strong><span style="color: #2c19ef;">“Can the fig tree . . . bear olive berries? either a vine, figs? So can no fountain both yield salt water and fresh.”</span></strong> Can the lips which have sung these beautiful loving words speak those other words? But they sometimes do.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Perhaps these three sieves will help to keep some words from being spoken that would grieve the Spirit of love and hurt someone whom our Lord loves.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary</span>? </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The three sieves are only useful for keeping wrong words from being spoken. They do not give us right words. Love can fill the cup so full of love, that nothing can come out but love. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Amy Carmichael</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9364</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 18px;">And Nathan said to David. . .Wherefore hast thou despised the commandment of the </span>L<span style="font-size: 14px;">ORD, </span><span style="font-size: 18px;">to do evil in His sight? thou hast killed Uriah the Hittite with the sword, and hast taken his wife to be thy wife, and has slain him with the sword . . . And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the Lord. And Nathan said unto David, the L</span><span style="font-size: 14px;">ORD </span><span style="font-size: 18px;">also hath put away thy sin, thou shalt not die. </span></span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 18px;">(2 Samuel 12:7,9,13)</span></span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Here we come to the great distinction between the <em><strong>grace</strong></em> of God, and the <em><strong>government</strong></em> of God. Penally, David’s sin was forgiven as soon as he truly confessed it <strong><span style="color: #2f11f3;">(v.13)</span></strong> and we find him afterwards rejoicing in the knowledge of that blessed fact <strong><span style="color: #1b11f5;">(Psalm 32:1, 103:12)</span></strong> But governmentally, the consequences remained.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">For, it must be remembered that when it is a question of government, a sin is not necessarily done with, even when it is confessed. The principle laid down in <strong><span style="color: #1701f6;">Galatians 6. 7,8</span></strong> applies to Christians as well as to unconverted men: indeed the words were written primarily to children of God. <strong><span style="color: #2718f4;">“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.”</span></strong> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Heaven’s Cure for Earth’s Care</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Child of God, by Christ’s salvation, rise o’er sin and fear and care—</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Joy to find in every station something still to do or bear;</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Think what Spirit dwells within you—think what Father’s smiles are yours—</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Think that Jesus died to win you—He for you has opened doors. </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 11px;">Mrs. McKay</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9365</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">God sent me (Joseph) before you (his brothers) to preserve you a posterity in the earth, and to save lives by a great deliverance. Genesis 45:7</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The last scene in the history of Joseph manifests that his brothers had no true knowledge of the heart of Joseph and therefore no real confidence in him. Joseph had saved their lives; he had put them in possession of “the best of the land of Egypt, and he had nourished them with bread <strong><span style="color: #1e13f5;">(47:12)</span></strong>. For 17 years they had been the recipients of Joseph’s bounty, and the special objects of his loving care, and yet when a crisis arises—it becomes manifest that they have no personal knowledge of Joseph. <strong><span style="color: #1a28ee;">(50:15-21)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">They know something of his greatness and glory, they know the great work he has accomplished, they know that every blessing they enjoy is owing to his position and work, but they had no personal acquaintance with his mind and heart. It is as if they said, “We know what he has done for us, but we do not know how he feels about us. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And not knowing his mind, when the crisis arises it becomes manifest that they have <em><strong>no confidence</strong></em> in him, with the result that they conclude that he will think and act towards them according to the way they had thought and acted towards him. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">They remember that when Joseph was but a lad of seventeen, <strong><span style="color: #2208f2;">“they hated him”</span></strong>, now they conclude <strong><span style="color: #0c20f1;">“Joseph will hate us.”</span></strong> Conscience recalls how wickedly they had acted to Joseph and now they say <strong><span style="color: #3e15e3;">“he will certainly requite us all the evil we did unto him.” </span></strong> They judge his thoughts by their thoughts, his heart by their hearts and his acts by their acts.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Are we Christians today often like Joseph’s brethren? We know something of the glory of the Person of Christ, of the benefits that flow from His finished work on the cross, but when some crisis arises it becomes manifest how little we know of His heart, and therefore what little confidence we have in Him. The result is that in the presence of some trial we are, like Joseph’s brethren, greatly distressed in soul. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">There has been great zeal to acquire knowledge of the Scriptures, but personal acquaintance with the Lord has not been sought after—not only knowing what He has done for us but also how He feels about us. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Joseph - Hamilton Smith</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9366</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0308f9;">Let us go unto perfection. Hebrews 6:1 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>PROGRESS</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Blest Saviour, keep our spirits stayed, Hard following after Thee, </strong><strong>Till we, in robes of white arrayed, Thy face in glory see. </strong><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. G. Deck </span></strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"> </span></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">I believe the one great hindrance to our progress is the limited measure of our desire and preparation. We often think that we are wishing for and ready for much more than we are. We always get what we value.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It is very helpful to see in <strong><span style="color: #2f17f3;">Ephesians 4:14-15</span></strong> that if you were well grown you would not be<span style="color: #2910ee;"> </span><em><strong><span style="color: #2910ee;">“tossed to and fro,”</span> The higher you go the safer you are—</strong></em>a fine principle, hence Satan would prevent us from going to the top.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">I think many do not habituate themselves to sitting before the Lord. One does not appear to be doing anything, and yet that is the very time in which the peculiar lines of His mind and pleasure for one are acquired.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">I believe the practical difficulty with us all is to say—not Adam in <em><strong>any</strong></em> form or quality but <strong><span style="color: #4e12f4;">Christ liveth in me! Galatians 2:20)</span></strong>. . . Every believer likes to advance himself spiritually, but hardly anyone likes to exchange himself for another Man.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Learning is very real work, and there is no maturing without it, and I do not believe that anyone matures brilliantly who does not learn sufferingly. Easily got, easily gone, was never so corroborated as in the highest things. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">I am quite sure that if there were more breaking of heart to know more of the Lord wondrous disclosures would be made to us. The great thing we need for progress <em><strong>is restfulness of heart</strong></em>. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Footprints for Pilgrims - J. N. Darby</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9367</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 18px;">Impressions </span></strong></em><strong> </strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2612f4;">See then that ye walk circumspectly, <span style="font-size: 11px;">[carefully]</span> not as fools, but as wise. Ephesians 5:15</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">A father and his little boy had been enjoying a day at the beach. As they began to prepare to leave, the boy got up from the sand where he had been lying. Looking down at the beach he said, “Look Daddy, you see me in the sand!”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">“You sure can!” answered his Dad. You left quite an impression there.” “What’s a ‘pression’, Daddy?” asked the puzzled little boy. “It’s that place in the sand where we see a mark where you were lying. It’s just the footprints you leave in the sand. Also its kind of like the impression you left in Mr. Green’s new cement sidewalk.“You mean my handprint?” he asked Dad.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">“Well, yes but I was thinking of another kind of impression you left with Mr Green. You left an impression on his mind.” “Is Mr. Green’s brain made of cement too?” “No,” laughed Dad, “but you left an impression on his memory—a bad impression. Every time Mr. Green walks out the door he sees your hand print right there in his sidewalk. I’m pretty sure that’s an impression of you he gets every day, son.”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">But Daddy I wanted to do something good. Mr. Green is always crabby and acts mad. I thought if he saw my hand in his sidewalk waving ‘hi’ every morning he would be happy!”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Believers are a bit more like this dear little boy than we might care to admit. Our conduct often leaves unintended impressions on the minds of others. Our acts and our words are carefully watched by unbelievers—often by those who are looking to find fault with Christians that try to live their faith. How we need the wisdom found in <span style="color: #3b13f1;">James 3:17</span> as our daily guide: <strong><span style="color: #2a0af8;">“But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, yielding, full of mercy and good fruits, unquestioning, unfeigned”</span></strong> <span style="font-size: 11px;">(JND Trans.)</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Conduct the world engages in, often revealing in such actions, is quickly rebuked when observed in those who bear the name of Christ.. <strong><span style="color: #2a16f4;">“Abstain from all appearance of evil.” (1 Thessalonians 5:22)</span></strong> is a divine command that every believer desiring to honour the Lord must diligently follow. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">Doug Nicolet -</span></strong></em> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Christian Shepherd - December 2007</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9368</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #180cf5; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #170cf4;">But doThou for me, O God the Lord, for Thy name’s sake: because Thy mercy is good, deliver Thou me. Psalm 109:21</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #180cf5; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #180cf5; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The Psalmist does not say what he wanted God to do for him. So this most restful prayer is left open for all perplexed hearts to appropriate according to their necessities.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #180cf5; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #180cf5; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">We leave it open for God to fill up in His own way. Only a trusting heart can pray this prayer; the very utterance of it is an act of faith. We could not ask anyone we didn’t know intimately and trust implicitly to do for us without even suggesting what. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #180cf5; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #180cf5; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Through waves, through clouds and storms, </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #180cf5; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">God gently clears the way;</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #180cf5; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">We wait His time; so shall the night</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #180cf5; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Soon end in blissful day. </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #180cf5; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #180cf5; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">We leave it to Himself </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #180cf5; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">To chose and to command;</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #180cf5; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">With wonder filled, we soon shall see</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #180cf5; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">How wise, how strong His hand.</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #180cf5; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Charles Wesley</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #180cf5; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #180cf5; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J. HIebert - 9369</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 18px;">There is therefore now no condemnation to those which are in Christ Jesus. Romans 8:1</span></span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Have you ever got hold of the wonderful truth of being in Christ Jesus? <strong><span style="color: #210cf5;">”For there is therefore now no condemnation to those who are in Christ Jesus.”</span></strong> Why? because there is nothing left to condemn. “Well,” you say,”that is a bold statement.” I do not deny it, for I know the blessedness and joy of it! There is nothing left to condemn—if you are <em><strong>in Christ Jesus</strong></em>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The truth of the gospel is this, that when the Lord Jesus was upon the cross, not only was He bearing our sins, but He was there made sin by God, and stood identified with all that the first man (Adam) was, and underwent the judgment of God upon the first man. The history of the first man terminated before God and <strong>for faith in the death of the Second man (Jesus)</strong>. Everything was condemned in the cross, and now there is no condemnation left, nothing left to condemn. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">God has not made light of sin. Christ has borne our sins, and put them away, but more, He has been made sin, and gone down into the depth of the judgment due to sin, and risen up from those depths. <strong>He has become my life; I am in Him, and therefore in all the impossibility of condemnation for Him</strong>. Sin in the flesh has not been forgiven. God condemned it. God never forgives sin. He forgives sinners, and pardons sins, blotting them out in Christ’s blood, but the evil principle of sin—sin in the flesh— can only end in judgment.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>If you are a believer, you are in Christ before God, and hence there is no condemnation,</strong> because your very place is in the One who has come out of, and left behind, in the judgment He came out of, all that pertained to your sins and you. And is He going to condemn those for whom He died, for whom He agonized, and for whom He Himself was condemned? Never! Blessed be His peerless name! We may well say, Hallelujah! <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Dr. W. T. P. Wolston.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert—9370</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0b10f2;">“IT IS FINISHED'“</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0b10f2;">It is finished. John 19:30</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Precious words that released young Hudson Taylor from years of doubt and striving! While reading a tract his eye caught the words, <strong><span style="color: #212121;">“The finished work of Christ.”</span></strong> He had known for years of the atoning work of Christ, but for the first time he saw that if it were a finished work there was nothing for him to do but accept it and praise God forever.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>God has taken care of everything in Christ</strong></em>. My sins, my salvation, my life, my past and present and future, all my needs and the needs of the whole world, all are wrapped up in a finished work. If God has taken care of everything I do not need to try to take care of anything. I have only to believe, receive, rejoice, and then out of the fulness of my heart love and obey Him.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">No matter what comes up, there is provision for it in Christ. And when we find that everything is in Jesus, He becomes to us everything! </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">“Finished”—not something with ragged edges and frazzled ends that I must piece out. God has taken care of everything forever in Christ. And we are complete in Him. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Day by Day - Vance Havner</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>Nothing either great or small nothing sinner, no </strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>Jesus died and paid it all long, long ago.</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>When He from His lofty throne stooped to do and die</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>Everything was fully done, hearken to His cry.</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong> “It is finished!” yes, indeed, finished every jot:</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong> Sinner, this is all you need—tell me is it not?</strong></em> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">James Proctor</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9371</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3209f2;">The Lord Knoweth:</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Them that are His (2 Timothy 2:19); </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">His own sheep (John 10:14);</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Them that trust in Him (Nahum 1:7);</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">What we need (Matthew 6:32);</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The way I take (Job 23:10);</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Our frame (Psalm 103:14);</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">How to deliver (2 Peter 2:9).</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3e0ee5;">We Know:</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">That the Son of God is come (1 John 5:20); </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">That our Redeemer lives (Job 19:25);</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Whom we have believed (2 Timothy 1:12);</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">That we have eternal life (1 John 5:13);</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">That all things work together for good (Romans 8:28);</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">That we have an eternal Home (2 Corinthians 5:1);</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">That we shall be like Him (1 John 3:2).</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Wonderful Word - George Henderson</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J. Hiebert - 9372</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1010f4;">My days are past, my purposes are broken off, even the thoughts of my heart. </span></strong></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1010f4;">Job 17:11</span></strong></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1010f4;">Mine heart within me is broken. Jeremiah 23:9</span></strong></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1010f4;">Unto you that fear My name shall the Sun of Righteousness arise with healing in His wings. Malachi 4:2</span></strong></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1010f4;">He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds. Psalm 147:3</span></strong></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">My every wound to Thee I take to heal, for Thou art touched with every pang I feel;</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">O Friend of friends—the faithful, true and tried—in Thee, and Thee alone, I now confide.</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">What a Friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear! <span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer! </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear,</span></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer!</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere? <span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">We should never be discouraged; take it to the Lord in prayer. </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Can we find a Friend so faithful who will all our sorrows share?</span></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">Jesus knows our every weakness; take it to the Lord in prayer.</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care? <span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Precious Saviour still our refuge, take it to the Lord in prayer. </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Do thy friends despise, forsake Thee? Take it to the Lord in prayer! </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">In HIs arms He’ll take and shield thee; Thou will find a solace there.</span></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Joseph M. Scriven </span></strong></em></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9373</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c19ec;">But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Isaiah 40:31</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">We are bound to have our days of rain, our times of tears, our hours of disappointment. There are bound to be blustery storms of testing, counter air-currents of frustration, and nights of darkness.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">But through them all, in them all, our Father is always there. He does not desert us. He does not abandon us. He is at work in the environment of our lives, persistent in pressing in upon us in ways we do not always see, much less understand.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In these difficult, grievous, heavy times He expects that we shall simply settle down quietly upon the shore of His great grace and wait patiently for Him. He does not call us to beat our way with flashing wings and spent bodies against the storms of life. He does not ask us to fight the adverse winds in fury.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">He simply tells us that those who wait upon the Lord, who wait for the weather to change, who wait for Him to alter the environment, will mount up with wings refreshed. They shall fly and not grow weary, borne aloft on the fresh updrafts of His faithfulness.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">For, our Father is true to His children. Just as the sun will shine again after the storms have swept the beach, so the rising power of Christ’s presence will again warm the shore of my soul. The uplifting wind of His Spirit will once more bear up my spirit. Again I shall soar in strength and beauty. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Songs of My Soul - Phillip Keller</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9374</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong style="background-color: transparent; letter-spacing: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #3e0af2;">He that shall come will come, and will not tarry. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong style="background-color: transparent; letter-spacing: 0px; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #3e0af2;">Hebrews 10:37</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3e0af2;">Even so, come Lord Jesus. Revelation 22:20</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">O joyful day! O glorious hour! when Jesus, by almighty power, <span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Revived and left the grave; in all His works behold Him great, </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Before, almighty to create, almighty now to save!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The first begotten from the dead, He’s risen now, His people’s head, <span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">And thus their life’s secure; and if, like Him, they yield their breathe, </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Like Him they’ll burst the bonds of death, their resurrection sure.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Why should His people, then, be sad? none have such reason to be glad <span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">As those redeemed to God: Jesus, the mighty Saviour, lives, </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">To them eternal life He gives, the purchase of His blood.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Then let our gladsome praise resound, and let us in His work abound, <span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">Whose blessèd name is Love; we’re sure our labour’s not in vain, </span><span style="letter-spacing: 0px;">For we with Him ere long shall reign—with Jesus dwell above. </span><em style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">T. Kelly</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9375 </p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0b10f2;">“They shall still bring forth fruit in old age.” </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0b10f2;">Psalm 92:14</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> Some of the fruits of the Spirit seem to be especially and peculiarly characteristic of sanctified older years; and do we not want to bring them <em><strong>all</strong></em> forth? Look at the splendid ripeness of <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Abraham’s faith in his old age</span>; <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">the grandeur of Moses’ meekness</span>, when, he went up the mountain alone to die; <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">the mellowness of Paul’s joy in his later epistles</span>; and <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">the wonderful gentleness of John</span>, which makes us almost forget his early character of “<strong>a son of thunder,</strong>” wanting to call down God’s lightnings of wrath. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The same Spirit is given to us, that we too may bring forth fruit that may abound, and always more fruit.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The brightest of all: <strong><span style="color: #1a10f5;">“Even to your old age, I am He</span></strong>; always the same Jehovah-Jesus; with us all the days, bearing and carrying us “all the days;” reiterating His promise—”even to hoar hairs will I carry you…; even I will carry and will deliver you, just as He carried the lambs in His bosom. For we shall always be His little children, and doubtless He will always be our Father. The rush of years cannot touch this!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>Fear not the westering shadows, O Children of the Day! </strong></em><em><strong>For brighter still and brighter, shall be your homeward way.</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>Resplendent as the morning, with fuller glow and power, </strong></em><em><strong>And clearer than the noonday, shall be your evening hour.</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Royal Bounty - Francis Ridley Havergal </span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9376</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1c06f8;">He made as though He would have gone further. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1c06f8;">Luke 24:28</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">How perfect that little movement was! What title had He, a Stranger as He seemed to be, to intrude Himself on them? He had only joined them by the way, in the courtesy of one who was traveling the same road. What right had such a one to cross their threshold?</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">If Jesus be but a Stranger in our eyes, He will still walk outside. Till we know Him as the Saviour, the Lover of our souls, surely He asks for nothing. We may dwell in our own houses, and furnish our own tables, till then. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">But when He is known by us as the Son of God Who has loved us and given Himself for us, then He claims a place in our hearts and our homes; and then will He dwell with us and sup with us <strong><span style="color: #1808f7;">(Revelation 3:20)</span></strong> as it were, unbidden; entering, in the person of some of His little ones, either to get a cup of cold water, or to have the feet washed, at moments when, perhaps, we looked not for Him. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">The Gospel by Luke - J. G. Bellett</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9377 </p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Little Prayers</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> <strong><span style="color: #3308f8;">Lord Jesus receive my spirit. Acts 7:59</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Sometimes we are very much disappointed with ourselves because we cannot pray proper prayers, only little ones that hardly seem to be prayers at all. I have been finding much comfort in the little prayers of the gospels. They could not be more little.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">There was Peter’s, <strong><span style="color: #100af5;">“Lord, save me”, (Matthew 14:30)</span></strong>, and the poor mother’s, <strong><span style="color: #2f0afb;">“Lord, help me”</span></strong>; <strong><span style="color: #5209f4;">(Matthew 15:25)</span></strong> and sometimes even less, no prayer at all but only the briefest telling of the trouble, <strong><span style="color: #390bef;">“My servant lieth at home sick”</span></strong>; and less than that, a thought, and a touch, <strong><span style="color: #2208f5;">(Matthew 8:6);</span></strong> “She said within herself, If I may but touch. . .” <strong><span style="color: #2808f6;">(Matthew 9:21)</span></strong>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Again we hear of just a feeling, <strong><span style="color: #2016f6;">“They were troubled”</span></strong>, and a cry <strong><span style="color: #1212f9;">“They cried out for fear”</span></strong>—that was all, but it was enough. <strong><span style="color: #2d09f3;">(Matthew 14:26)</span></strong>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Often in the throng of the day’s work and warfare, there will not be time for more than a very little prayer—a thought, a touch, a feeling, a cry—but it is enough; so tender, so near, is the love of our Lord. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Edges of His Ways</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9378</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 28</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c19ec;">Give ear to my prayer, O God. Psalm 55:1</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c19ec;">I will call upon God: and the Lord shall save me. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c19ec;">Psalm 55:16</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c19ec;">Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and He shall sustain thee. Psalm 5:22</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Prayer is prayer, whether it comes from the weak or the strong. It is not so much the heart or the lip from which it comes, though the heart must be clean and the lip sincere. It is the Ear to which it goes which is the great thing.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">When God inlines the heart to pray,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">He hath an ear to hear;</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">To Him there’s music in a groan,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">And beauty in a tear.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">The humble seeker cannot fail</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">To have his needs supplied,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Since He for sinners intercedes,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Who once for sinners died.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Benjamin Beddome </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9379</p><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">from it. (Proverbs 22:6)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">I had the inestimable privilege of being brought up in a Christian home. I feel sure the well-being of a nation lies in the proportion of Christian mothers it possesses. The mind of a child is plastic, and takes impressions for good or evil at a very early age. One may and does forget a good deal of what was learned at a mother’s knee, but the impression lasts through life, and cannot be thrown off.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Many a young fellow has broken loose from the restraints of a Christian home, who in the end found early impressions too insistent to be disregarded, and lived to thank God for the prayers and training of a Christian mother. When I was only eleven years old I made a profession of faith in Christ. Looking back it was a very feeble and shallow start that was made. As I grew up to manhood many a time I was tempted to give up the profession of Christianity, but something held me back. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Infidel doubts assailed me. Any attack on the Bible distressed me and shook my confidence. Such questions as, Why does God allow evil? Why does He allow the devil to work such mischief in the world? Why was I born in sin and shaped in iniquity? crowded into my mind and shook my foundations. But all this only in the end led me to take a stronger hold on Christ as my Saviour. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It is said that a young sapling gets firmer hold of the soil as the result of fierce winds loosening the roots. When the storm is over, the loosened roots have room to push farther out, and take a firmer grip. The life and safety of a tree lie in the fact that there is as much out of sight below the surface as there is above ground. The taller the tree the longer and more far-reaching the roots.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">So it is with the Christian. Nothing will stand the assault of the enemy save a true <em>heart</em>-knowledge of the Lord as Saviour, a true faith-grip of the Gospel of the grace of God. There must be an out-of-sight hold on divine realities before there can be effective Christian life and testimony. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Why I Believe The Bible - A. J. Pollock </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.HIebert - 9380</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 30</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #290dd9;">Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be? 2 Peter 3:11 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #290dd9;">Then whose shall those things be? Luke 12:20</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">We live in an age of <strong><span style="color: #1225ee;">“things”</span></strong>. We strive to obtain necessities and luxuries that will bring us personal comfort and assure compliments from our friends. Tragically, we can only be certain of two facts regarding <strong><span style="color: #300bf7;">“things”</span></strong>. We will leave them behind for others, and they will ultimately be dissolved. May the Lord help us to desire Himself, not <strong><span style="color: #3411f5;">“things”</span></strong>. <strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Arnot P. McIntee </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Is there a thing beneath the sun, </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">That strives with Thee, my heart to share?</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">O, tear it thence and reign alone,</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">The Lord of every object there.</span></strong> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"> — Charles Wesley</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9381</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 31</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">These words . . . shall be in thine heart . . . bind them for a sign upon thine </span></strong><strong><span style="color: blue;">hand . . . as frontlets between thine eyes. Deuteronomy 6:6,8.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Israelites bound pouches containing specific portions of God’s Word to their foreheads and hands, literally indicating that His words of wisdom were at the forefront of every thought and that His words would strengthen their hands for the day’s labour.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Our mouth is not only for food, but for the spiritual nutrition of His sustaining Word.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1c17f4;">“Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.” (Matthew 4:4). </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Bound to our fingers, His words help us manipulate life’s complexities. <strong><span style="color: #770cf3;">“Bind them upon thy fingers, write them upon the table of thine heart.” Proverbs 7:3</span></strong> and at our feet they illuminate our walk. <strong><span style="color: #0c11f7;">“Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path.” (Psalm 119:105).</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The Scriptures should be no empty word for us but our every life. <strong><span style="color: #4208f5;">“Set your hearts unto all the words which I testify upon you. (Deuteronomy 32:46).”</span></strong> A daily read is a must!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Sing them over again to me, wonderful words of life;</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Let me more of Thy beauty see wonderful words of life, </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Philip Bliss</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9382</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">That I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings. Philippians 3:10</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Hudson Taylor stopped at no sacrifice in following Christ. “Cross-loving men are needed,” he wrote in the midst of his labours in China, and if he could speak to us today would it not be to call us to the highest of all ambitions; “That I may know Him [the One we, too, supremely love], and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of His sufferings.” Can we not hear again the tones of His quiet voice as He says: </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">“There is a needs be for us to give ourselves for the life of the world. An easy, non-self-denying life will never be one of power. Fruit-bearing in-and feeding upon the Word through which He reveals Himself to the waiting soul.”</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">It was not easy for Mr. Taylor, in his changeful life, to make time for prayer and Bible study, but he knew that it was vital. Well do the writers remember traveling with him month after month in Northern China, by cart and wheelbarrow, with the poorest of inns at night. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Often with only one large room for coolies and travellers alike, they would screen off a corner for their father and another for themselves, with curtains of some sort; and then, after sleep at last had brought a measure of quiet, they would hear a match struck and see the flicker of candlelight which told that Mr. Taylor, however weary, was pouring over the little Bible in two volumes always at hand. From two to four A. M. was the time he usually gave to prayer; the time when he could be most sure of being undisturbed to wait upon God. That flicker of candlelight has meant more to them than all they have read or heard on secret prayer; it meant reality, not preaching but practise.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The hardest part of a missionary career, Mr. Taylor found, is to maintain </span><span style="color: black;">regular, prayerful Bible study. “Satan will always find you something to </span><span style="color: black;">do,”he would say, “When you ought to be occupied about that, if it is only arranging a window blind. Take time. Give God time to reveal Himself to you. Take time to read His Word as in His presence, that from it you may know what He asks of you and what He promise you.” </span><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Hudson Taylor’s Spiritual Secret</span></span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9383</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3f0cf7;">Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines have tender grapes. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3f0cf7;">Song of Solomon 2:15</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">As I set traps for the little foxes, so now I have to judge in myself anything that would hinder fellowship with Him, that would hinder my spiritual growth. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">What are the little foxes that spoil the vine? I can tell you a good many. There are the little foxes of vanity, of pride, of envy, of evil speaking, of impurity (I think this though is a wolf instead of a little fox).</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Then there are the little foxes of carelessness, of neglect of the Bible, of neglect of prayer, of neglect of fellowship with the people of God. These are the things that spoil the vine, that hinder spiritual growth. Deal with them in the light of the cross of Christ; put them to death before they ruin your Christian experience, do not give them any place. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Song of Solomon - H. A. Ironside</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9384</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">He Humbled Himself</span></span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus. Philippians 2:5-8</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">He that is down need fear no fall:</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">He that is low, no pride. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">He that is humble ever shall</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">Have God to be his guide.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Pilgrim’s progress by J. Bunyan</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">Wouldst thou be great, then lowly serve;</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">Wouldest thou go up, go down;</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">But go as low as e’er you will,</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">The Highest has gone lower still.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Author Unknown</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J. Hiebert - 9385</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 4</span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-77757768880180208812023-09-01T06:00:00.068-04:002023-10-02T09:02:15.821-04:00Gems from September 2023<p><span style="font-size: x-large;">September 1</span></p><p><span style="font-size: x-large;"></span></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Be careful (anxious) 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. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Philippians 4:6-7</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">THINGS THAT MAKE PEOPLE ANXIOUS</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;">Ill health</span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: black;"> </span></strong><span style="color: black;">is often another fruitful source of care.</span><span style="color: black;">Your very success in life may depend upon good health, and that seems denied. Or you may have others depending upon you, and you are feeling less and less equal to the strain.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Perhaps few things are more trying than to feel unequal, physically and mentally, to the demands of your calling, and yet to be obliged to face them day after day.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Under such circumstances everything is apt to become draped in black. All we look at is in varying shade of India ink. Heavens blue is forgotten, and cold grey mist envelopes everything. The thistle-down, lighter than a feather seems to our distorted imagination a ton weight.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">All this may be purely physical; and there is the physical side of getting free from care as well as the spiritual, for man is body as well as soul and spirit. To pay due attention to each is one of the great problems of life. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> But the very remembrance that your feeling of depression has no real cause in circumstances, but only in some transitory condition of your body, will enable you to arise and shake yourself free from it. There is one text too, which has often been like a sheet-anchor under pressure of this kind.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"><strong><span style="color: #200af6;">"God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation (trial) also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. 1 Corinthians 10:13</span></strong> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Angels in White - Russell Elliott </span></strong></em></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9322</span></p><div><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></div></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2910eb;">When thine eye is single, thy whole body also is full of light. Luke 11:34</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">We all know how easily our poor heart persuades itself of the rightness of any step which it desires to take, and how the devil furnishes plausible arguments to convince us of its rightness. He comes with arguments which the moral condition of the soul causes us to regard as clear, forcible and satisfactory.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The very fact of our thinking of such a thing proves our unfitness to weigh, with a well-balanced mind and spiritually adjusted conscience, the solemn consequences of such a step. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">If the eye were single (that is, if we were governed by but one object, namely, the glory and honour of the Lord Jesus Christ), we should have no difficulty or perplexity about the matter.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> A racer whose eye is resting on the crown will not be troubled with any perplexity as to whether he ought to stop and tie a hundred-pound weight around his neck. Such a thought would never cross his mind. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Whenever I am in perplexity as to my path, I have reason to suspect that my eye is not single, for, assuredly, perplexity is not compatible with a body <strong><span style="color: #4d0bf1;">“full of light.”</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> We frequently go to pray for guidance in matters with which, if the eye were single and the will subject, we would have nothing whatever to do, and hence we should have no need to pray about them. <em><strong>To pray about anything concerning which the Word of God is plain marks the activity of a rebellious will</strong></em>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">As a writer has well remarked, “We sometimes seek God’s will, desiring to know how to act in circumstances <em><strong>in which it is not His will that we should be found at all;</strong></em> if conscience were in real healthful activity, its first effect would be to make us quit them. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> It is our will which sets us there, and we should like, nevertheless, to enjoy the consolation of God’s direction. Be assured that if we are near enough to God, we shall have no trouble to know His will.” <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Lord is Near </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9323</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"><strong><span style="color: #200bef;">He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; He leadeth me beside the still waters. Psalm 23:2 </span></strong></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The real power to do great things for Christ must come from secluded places, where men commune with God. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> Let us remember, to range over the whole garden of Scripture and not to confine ourselves to a few particularly wealthy spots; for the green pastures are everywhere. By the anointed eye, Christ is as really beheld in the types of the pentateuch <span style="font-size: 13px;">(First five books of the O.T.)</span> as in the later portions of the inspired Word.<span style="font-size: 13px;"> </span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">He is <em><strong>enfolded</strong></em> in the Old Testament and <em><strong>unfolded</strong></em> in the New. <strong><span style="color: #0821f4;">“Search the Scriptures . . .” </span>said Jesus,<span style="color: #0821f4;"> “for they are they which testify of Me”. (John 5:39) </span></strong></span><strong><span style="color: #2410f1;">“Had ye believed Moses ye would have believed Me; for </span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: #2410f1;">he wrote of Me</span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: #2410f1;">.” (John 5:46)</span></strong>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> And after His resurrection He joined the two disconsolate ones on their way to Emmaus, and, <strong><span style="color: #390af4;">“beginning at Moses and all the prophets, He expounded unto them in </span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: #390af4;">all</span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: #390af4;"> the Scriptures </span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: #390af4;">the things concerning Himself.</span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: #390af4;">” (Luke 24:27) </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Oh, what a Bible-reading have we here, not barren theory—musty, dry and drear—</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">But Christ, the “altogether lovely”, full in view. Himself the Preacher, text and sermon too</span></span></strong><span style="color: #390af4;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">.</span></span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And thus we learn that if our souls are to be kept healthy, vigorous, and strong; that if our work for God is to be of an enduring character; that if we are to combat successfully the principalities and powers which are arrayed against us and which are determined to resist every advance we attempt to make in the knowledge of God—we <em><strong>must</strong></em> read and study the Word of God. <strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Pearl of the Psalms - George Henderson</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9324</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0b0beb;">Thou hast enlarged me when I was in distress. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0b0beb;">(Psalm 4:1)</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">(In pressure Thou hast enlarged me.) </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">“How can God, of whom you say that He is love, of whom you claim He can do whatever is His will—how can He look upon a body racked with terrible pain without stepping in with a helping hand? How can He see all the misery, the suffering, the need of humanity without putting an end to it?” It was a bitter voice that spoke thus. Has such a question ever been raised in your heart? It was asked by a once jovial young lady. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">By falling from a horse, she had received serious injury, and had just overheard the doctors say, “Helpless for life!” At this, her whole being rebelled. “How could God allow this, since He is Almighty? He has no love!”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">For awhile her true friend, who stood by her side at this time of trouble, was silent. Then as though he would speak of something else, he asked: “Child, did it hurt very much when they applied the cast?” </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">“Hurt? Why it was terrible!” she answered.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">“But wasn’t your father present then?”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">“Of course he was.”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">“And he allowed them to torture you so? He could have stopped them.”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">“But it was necessary. It’s to help me, that I may at least be able to sit up again.”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The friend said slowly and with feeling: “So, therefore, your father looked on, when the doctor caused you such pain, and he allowed it to be although he loved you so much, or just because he loved you so dearly?”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The patient gazed into the face of the speaker with a strange light in her large eyes. “You mean to say,“ she said hesitatingly, “that God has allowed this accident because He loves me?”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">He nodded his head, unable to speak.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>A Father’s hand will never cause </strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>His child a needles tear.</strong></em> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">W. F. Lloyd</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9325</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1309eb;">Behold My hands and My feet, that it is I Myself. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1309eb;">Luke 24:39</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Now look at them! What do you think about those wounds on the riven body of Jesus? Do they not speak peace to your heart and conscience? <strong><span style="color: #310df4;">“The blood of Jesus Christ [God’s Son] cleanseth us from all sin” (1 John 1:7). </span></strong> Oh! yes, my fellow-believer, <em><strong>Jesus feels keenly</strong></em> every doubting thought that arises in our hearts. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Blessed Jesus! Thy work is finished; here our souls rest. Our sins were laid on Thee; they cannot be laid on us. On our account our wrath was on Thee; on Thy account it is peace, endless peace, to us. Hear the words of Jesus, “Go in peace,” and doubt no more. He does not say, Look at <em><strong>your</strong></em> sins or <em><strong>your</strong></em> failings. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> We might look at them in despair. But He says, <strong><span style="color: #1b11f3;">“Behold My hands and MY feet,”</span></strong> as though He had said, Is it not enough? Could I love you more?</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Faith is always self-renouncing; it brings a broken, empty heart to receive and welcome God’s gracious gifts. Faith, therefore, gives all the glory to God. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> Believing in Christ, we come to Him for all, employ Him in all, trust Him through all, look to Him under all, hope in Him to do all, and to Him ascribe the glory of all.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">C Stanley 1821 - 1888)</span></strong></em> <span style="font-size: 11px;">(adapted) </span> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9326</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #170cf5;">Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. Philippians 4:</span></strong><span style="color: #170cf5;">6</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>Prayer the Sign of Life</strong></em>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">What is prayer, but the breathing forth of that grace which is breathed into the soul by the Holy Spirit? </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> When God breathed into man the breath of life, he became a living soul; so when God breathes into the creature the breath of spiritual life, he becomes a praying soul: <strong><span style="color: #310eee;">“Behold, he prayeth,”</span></strong> says God of Paul to Ananias <strong><span style="color: #2d0ff2;">(Acts 9:11)</span></strong>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Praying is the same to the new creature, <em><strong><span style="color: #400bf8;">(2 Corinthians 5:17)</span></strong></em> as crying to the natural. The child is not taught by art to cry, but by nature—it comes into the world crying. Praying is not a lesson got by forms and rules of art, but flowing from principles of new life. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Christian in Complete Armour - William Gurnall (1617-1679) </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9327</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">He was oppressed, and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth: He is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so He openeth not His mouth. Isaiah 53:7</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">In the midst of the elders, stood a Lamb as it had been slain. Revelation 5:6</span></strong>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">We live in an area of Ireland where at certain times of the year we see lambs running in the fields. They look so pure, innocent and harmless. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> Every time I see a lamb I am amazed that in Revelation, the Lord of the entire universe is depicted as the eternal Lamb of God. You would think the Lion in the midst of the throne would be more fitting. But who can fathom the humble nature of our God? </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Interestingly, the word for lamb used in Revelation is not the ordinary word but one that means the smallest and dearest lamb in the fold. Let us muse on our Lamb today. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Paul Robertson</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>Lamb of God, our souls adore Thee, while upon Thy face we gaze,</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>There the Father’s love and glory shine in all their brightest rays.</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>O what wondrous love and mercy! Thou didst lay Thy glory by,</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>And for us didst come from heaven as the Lamb of God to die.</strong></em> - <strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. G. Deck</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9328</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0606f6;">O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #0606f6;">How </span><span style="color: #2f17f1;">unsearchable are His judgments, and His ways past finding out! </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2f17f1;">Romans 11:33</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">A poor weaver in Scotland preached a brief sermon on three texts:</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">(1) “The blood of Jesus Christ…cleanseth us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7). </span></strong><span style="color: black;">“That‘s my sins away.” (2) </span><strong><span style="color: blue;">“Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and </span></strong><strong><span style="color: blue;">not one of them is forgotten before God?” (Luke 12:6) </span></strong><span style="color: black;"></span><strong><span style="color: blue;">Ye are of more value </span></strong><strong><span style="color: blue;">than many sparrows.” (v.7) </span></strong><span style="color: black;">That’s my cares away. </span><em><strong><span style="color: blue;">(3) We shall be caught up </span></strong></em><em><strong><span style="color: blue;">to meet the Lord in the air. (1 Thessalonians 4:17)</span></strong></em><span style="color: black;">“ And that’s myself away.”</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">That good man’s sermon—which covers the whole of a Christian’s life—has </span><span style="color: black;">suggested to me the lines which I should follow in discussing the theme that </span><span style="color: black;">is to occupy us in the pages of this book.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">We are told that just before a very critical operation the late eminent surgeon, </span><span style="color: black;">Dr. T. Parvin, read to the assembled physicians the 139th Psalm, and then </span><span style="color: black;">said: “It is a great literary document; but even more it is a wonderful spiritual </span><span style="color: black;">treasure. It can be heartily commended for your study, for its message is </span><span style="color: black;">greatly needed. After all, there is nothing which will effectually drive out fear, </span><span style="color: black;">except a living faith in a living, loving God; and the 139th Psalm should be a </span><span style="color: black;">great help to those who would do the the thing most needed—practise the </span><span style="color: black;">presence of God.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">“Thou hast beset me behind.“</span></strong><span style="color: black;">That takes care of my </span><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">past</span></span></strong><span style="color: black;">. “Thou hast </span><span style="color: black;">beset me before. That takes care of my </span><strong><span style="color: black;">future</span></strong><span style="color: black;">. </span><strong><span style="color: blue;">“Thou hast laid Thine </span></strong><strong><span style="color: blue;">hand upon me.”</span></strong><span style="color: black;">That takes care of the </span><strong><span style="color: black;">present</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> (v.5). </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Or, take three statements from Hebrews 9 </span><strong><span style="color: blue;">“He once appeared to put away </span></strong><strong><span style="color: blue;">sin by the sacrifice of Himself.” (v.26) “He now appears in the presence of </span></strong><strong><span style="color: blue;">God for us.” V.24) He shall appear the second time without sin unto </span></strong><strong><span style="color: blue;">salvation.” (v.28) </span></strong><span style="color: black;"></span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Heaven’s Cure for Earth’s care</span> - <span style="font-size: 13px;">George Henderson</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9329</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Them that honour Me I will honour, and they that despise Me shall be lightly esteemed. 1 Samuel 2:30</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Like Joseph, Daniel and his companions had a firm grasp of the sovereign ways of God, and, despite the situation and its </span><span style="color: black;">complexities, he refused to compromise his faith. He acted in Babylon as he would have acted under better circumstances in Jerusalem.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Daniel believed that, somehow, Babylon was a temporary phase in the ways of God with His people, and that, eventually, the promises made to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob would be fulfilled, and Israel would return to their land.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">What a challenge to us today. How do we behave when we are away from home, </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">or when fellow believers aren't around to check up on us? How do we behave when we are alone, and in a situation where a little bit of compromise could open up all</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">sorts of lucrative and attractive prospects for us?</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">How many lives have been ruined for God, not in the pits of immorality, but in the highest societies around a meal table?</span><span style="color: black;">Ah, we need to be constantly on our guard. It is so easy to yield when the circumstances are congenial, the food is good, the chat is interesting, and the prospects are glowing.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Beware lest you be compromised in your faith and in your commitment to the Lord.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Daniel: Godly Living in a Hostile World - William Burnett </span></strong></em></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9330</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Men ought always to pray, and not to faint. Luke 18:1</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Go to the ant thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise. Proverbs 6:6</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Tammerlane used to relate to his friends an anecdote of his early life. “I once,“ </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">he said, “was forced to take shelter from my enemies in a ruined building, where </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">I sat alone many hours.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Desiring to divert my mind from my hopeless condition, I fixed my eyes on an </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">ant that was carrying a grain of corn larger than itself up a high wall. I numbered </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">the efforts it made to accomplish this object.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The grain fell sixty-nine times to the ground; but the insect </span><span style="color: black;"><em><strong>persevered</strong></em>, and the </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">seventieth time it reached the top. This sight gave me courage at the moment,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">and I never forgot the lesson. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The King's Business </span></strong></em></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9331</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">By faith Moses forsook Egypt, not fearing the wrath of the king for he endured, as seeing Him who is invisible. Hebrews 11:27</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">You cannot see the loving eyes of your Lord or see His hand stretched out to help you. And yet you are trusted to go on just as if you saw. You are trusted to endure as seeing Him who is invisible, your Redeemer, your Captain and your Lord.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">There is no life that is not surrounded at times with </span><span style="color: black;">difficulties. We are not called to be weaklings but warriors. So let no one be surprised when the enemy comes in like a flood. But there is no need ever to be overwhelmed.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">There is not one word in the Bible to tell us to expect to be overwhelmed, for the moment the enemy comes like a flood, that very moment <strong><span style="color: #260bf6;">"the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him."</span></strong> <strong><span style="color: #230ef3;">(Isiah 59:19)</span></strong> and makes us strong to endure as seeing Him who is invisible.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">I find much comfort in <strong><span style="color: #1b0aef;">Psalm 138:3, “In the day when I cried Thou answeredst </span></strong></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"><strong><span style="color: #1b0aef;">me, and strengthenedst me with strength in my soul.”</span></strong></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"><strong><span style="color: #210af8;">"In the day that I cried:”</span></strong> That does not mean the day after, or an hour or two, or even a minute after, but that very day, that very hour, that very minute. God hears us the moment we cry and strengthens us with the only kind of strength that is</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">of any use at all. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Candles in the Dark - Amy Carmichael</span></strong></em> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9332</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Take heed, and be quiet; fear not, neither be faint hearted. Isaiah 7:4</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #100ff9;">Whoso hearkeneth unto Me shall dwell safely, and shall be be quiet from </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #100ff9;">fear of evil. Proverbs 1:33</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Be still, my heart, for faithful is your Lord,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And pure and true and tried His holy Word;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Through stormy flood that rages as the sea,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">His promises your stepping-stones shall be.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">I will not seek to know the future years,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Nor cloud today with dark tomorrow’s fears;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">I will but ask a light from heaven, to show</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">How, step by step, my pilgrimage should go. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Selected </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9333</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #390ff6;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Then Shaphan the scribe told the king, saying, Hilkiah the priest hath given me a book. And Shaphan read it before the king. And it came to pass, when the king </span></span></strong><strong><span style="color: #390ff6;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">had heard the words of the law, that he rent his clothes. </span></span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #390ff6;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">2 Chronicles 34:18-19</span></span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Judging The Word Or The Word Judging Us</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Here we have a tender conscience bowing under the action of the Word of God. This was one special charm in the character of Josiah. He was, in truth, a man of a humble and contrite spirit who trembled at the Word of God.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Would that we all knew more of this! Josiah had no question whatever in his mind as to the genuineness and authenticity of the words which Shaphan had read in his hearing. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">We do not read of his asking, “How am I to know that this is the Word of God?” No, he trembled at it; he bowed before it; he was smitten down under it; he rent his garments. He did not presume to sit in judgment upon the Word of God, but he allowed the Word to judge him.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Thus it should ever be. If man is to judge Scripture, then Scripture is not the Word of God at all; but if Scripture is in very truth the Word of God, then it must judge man. And so it is, and so it does. It lays bare the very roots of his nature. It opens up the foundations of his moral being. It holds up before him the only faithful mirror in which he can see himself perfectly reflected.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">This is the reason why man does not like Scripture, cannot bear it, seeks to set it aside, delights to pick holes in it, dares to sit in judgment upon it. It is not so in reference to other books. No, but Scripture judges them, judges their ways, their lusts. Hence the enmity of the natural mind to that most precious and marvellous Book. There is a power in Scripture which must bear down all before it. All must bow down under it, sooner or later. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">C. H. Mackintosh </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9334 </p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>WE SEE JESUS</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2f0ff6;">But we see Jesus . . . crowned with glory and honour. Hebrews 2:9</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">When we focus on our Lord Jesus, we must include thoughts of His suffering at Calvary. That work opened the way to a relationship with Him, providing for the many privileges from the divine side. But we do not remain at Calvary. We cannot even stay by the empty tomb. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">At the cross, we find it empty. If we go to the tomb, it is also empty. In either case we are concerned with Christ as dead. However, if by faith, we look into heaven, we see the exalted Man, crowned with glory and honour.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Knowing that the cross is empty and the tomb is empty, that sight provokes our rejoicing and promotes worship. In looking into heaven there is investment in the present and future realities. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Hadley Hall</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>Gazing on the Lord in glory, while our hearts in worship bow,</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>There we read the wondrous story of the cross—its shame and woe.</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>Every mark of dark dishonour heaped upon the thorn-crowned brow,</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>All the depths of Thy heart’s sorrow told in answering glory now.</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>On that cross alone—forsaken—where no pitying eye was found;</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>Now to God’s right hand exalted, with Thy praise the heavens resound.</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>Did Thy God e’en then forsake Thee, hide His face from Thy deep need?</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>In Thy face, once marred and smitten, all His glory now we read.</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>Gazing on it we adore Thee, blessèd, precious, holy Lord;</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>Thou, the Lamb, alone art worthy, this be earth’s and heaven’s accord.</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>Rise our hearts, and bless the Father, ceaseless song e’en here begun, </strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>Endless praise and adoration to the Father and the Son. <span style="font-size: 13px;">Miss C. Thompson</span></strong></em><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9335</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord. 2 Corinthians 5:8</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">AT HOME</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Two striking words are used here, one meaning to be away from home, the other to be among one’s own people. The Christian is a pilgrim in a strange land. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">What joy it is to come home from weeks among strangers! The believer belongs to another country and what a prospect we have of going home! The true disciple can never make himself feel at home in this world. He is in a backslidden condition if he begins to integrate into the society of this age.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">My dear wife’s favourite song was ”This World Is Not My Home.” She is at home tonight and I am still making my way through these lowlands. I know what Paul means. <strong><span style="color: #1d0df3;">“We are confidant, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #1d0df3;">body, and to be present with the Lord.” (2 Corinthians 5:8).</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">I am anxious to become an absentee from this poor earth and “Present!” with the Lord. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Vance Havner - All The Days </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9336</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1b05f5;">Then David said unto the messenger, thus shalt thou say unto Joab, let not this </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #1b05f5;">thing displease thee for the sword devoureth one as well as another: make thy </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #1b05f5;">battle more strong against the city, and overthrow it: and encourage thou him. </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #1b05f5;">And when the wife of Uriah heard that Uriah her husband was dead, she mourned for her husband. And when the mourning was past, David sent and fetched her to his house, and she became his wife, and bare him a son. <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">But </span></span></strong><strong><span style="color: #1b05f5;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">the thing that David had done displeased the Lord</span>. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1b05f5;">(2 Samuel 11:25-27)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The story, instead of ending, only is beginning . . . we find a little expression, the only thing David had not thought of and the only one he ought to have remembered:</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1f09f4;">“<span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">But the thing that David had done was evil in the sight of Jehovah</span>.</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Let us take heed to our ways. It takes only an instant to fall, but to avoid falling we must constantly be on the alert in all that precedes the incident. Yes, we must watch daily to avoid walking in <strong><span style="color: #2813f1;">“any grievous way”</span></strong> so that we may be led <strong><span style="color: #430bee;">“in the </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #430bee;">way everlasting” (Psalm 139:24).</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In this path all is peace for our souls; this is the path of life that leads to unclouded rejoicing in God’s presence: <strong><span style="color: #290ff2;">“In Thy presence is fullness of joy; at Thy right </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #290ff2;">hand there are pleasures for evermore” (Psalm 16:11) </span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Meditations on 2 Samuel H. L. Rossier</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9337</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Great is the mystery of godliness. God was manifest in the flesh, justified </span></strong><strong style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: blue;">in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in </span></strong><strong style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: blue;">the world, received up into glory. </span></strong><strong style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: blue;">1 Timothy 3:16</span></strong></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Be assured that God knows how to manage His own affairs. He has shown it.</span></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The Lord Jesus was in this world </span><strong><span style="color: #1514f4;">“a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief.” </span></strong><strong style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #1514f4;">(Isaiah 53:3).</span></strong><span style="color: black; letter-spacing: 0px;"> A world of </span><em style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><strong><span style="color: black;">sin</span></strong></em><span style="color: black; letter-spacing: 0px;"> in contrast with His holiness, a world of </span><em style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><strong><span style="color: black;">sorrow</span></strong></em><span style="color: black; letter-spacing: 0px;"> and </span><span style="color: black; letter-spacing: 0px;">suffering in contrast with His love could not but be for His heart a source of </span><span style="color: black; letter-spacing: 0px;">sorrow and pain.</span></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Christ as man was born of the Holy Ghost: His life was the expression of the Holy Spirit. He cast out devils by the Holy Ghost </span><strong><span style="color: #270deb;">(Matthew 12:28).</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> His words were </span><span style="color: black; letter-spacing: 0px;">Spirit and life. By the Holy Spirit He offered Himself without spot to God. </span></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #240ef7;">(Hebrews 9:14).</span></strong></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Finally, the power of the Holy Spirit was shown in the greatest and most perfect </span><span style="color: black; letter-spacing: 0px;">way in the Lord’s resurrection. </span><strong style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #090df6;">“Being put to death in the flesh, but quickened </span></strong><strong style="letter-spacing: 0px;"><span style="color: #090df6;">by the Spirit.” (1 Peter 3:18).</span></strong><span style="color: black; letter-spacing: 0px;"> </span></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">His faithfulness to His church and people who trust in Him is infallible, and He </span><span style="color: black; letter-spacing: 0px;">cannot but help you in all for which you look to Him. </span></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. N. Darby - Footprints for Pilgrims. </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9338</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>THE DESIRED HAVEN</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #120bf7;">I will dwell in the House of the Lord forever. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #120bf7;">Psalm 23:6.</span> </strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Blessèd conclusion to a blessèd theme! Dark valleys may be required to be travelled <strong><span style="color: #3112f4;">(v4)</span></strong>; malignant foes may have to be encountered <strong><span style="color: #2509f9;">(v.5)</span></strong>; but beyond the former, and in a scene where the latter can never enter—a realm where all is harmony, and light, and love—we shall live eternally—<strong><span style="color: #2611f6;">”I will dwell in the </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #2611f6;">House of the Lord forever.” </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2611f6;">(Psalm 23:6)</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">For All Eternity</span></strong>. In the clear light of the New Testament we can assert that every child of God will infallibly dwell in the house of the Lord for all eternity. <strong><span style="color: #0d1ae5;">“In My Father’s House,” </span></strong>said the Lord Jesus, <strong><span style="color: #2408f3;">“are many mansions . . . I go to prepare a place for you” </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #2408f3;">(John 14:2)</span></strong>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2908f5;">“And if I go, I will come again and receive you unto myself, that where I am there ye may be also.” </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2908f5;">(John 14:3). </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">This is confirmed in (<strong><span style="color: #2c0bf7;">1 Thessalonians 4:13-18), </span></strong><span style="color: black;">where the apostle, describing </span><span style="color: black;">the events which will take place at the second coming of our Lord, declares </span><span style="color: black;">that we </span><strong><span style="color: #2c0bf7;">“shall be caught up… to meet the Lord in the air; and so shall we </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #2c0bf7;">ever be with the Lord.</span><span style="color: #3408fa;">” (1 Thessalonians 4:17)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">What a strong and sure hope; what a grand and glorious destiny! The hope is strong and sure because the anchor will never drag. <strong><span style="color: #500de3;">(Hebrews 6:19)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #500de3;"> </span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Then He shall be satisfied <strong><span style="color: #3f0bf1;">(Isaiah 53:11)</span></strong> and then we shall be satisfied, for we shall awake with His likeness. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c09e3;">(Psalm 17:15)</span></strong>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">He and I, in that bright glory, one deep joy shall share,</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">Mine to be forever with Him, His that I am there.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Francis Bevon </span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9339</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">And it came to pass, that, while they communed together and reasoned, </span></strong><strong><span style="color: blue;">Jesus Himself drew near, and went with them. Luke 24:15</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Jesus Himself drawing near was journeying with them. How good and comforting </span><span style="color: black;">it is to know that the fact of His Presence did not depend on their feeling Him </span><span style="color: black;">near. He was near; He was journeying with them. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">If even for an hour that blessed Presence seems far distant, and we are (as they </span><span style="color: black;">were) cast down and in trouble, the quickest way to recover is to do what they </span><span style="color: black;">did. They came to a stand </span><strong><span style="color: #1c11f8;">(v17)</span></strong><span style="color: black;">. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">There was a pause for quietness, then questions and time given for answers; and </span><span style="color: black;">then </span><strong><span style="color: #3213f5;">“abide with us.” (v29)</span></strong><span style="color: black;">. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #4c14f4;">“As he sat at meat with them, He took bread, and blessed it, and break and gave to them. And their eyes were opened, and they knew Him.” </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #4c14f4;">Luke 24:30-31)</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> </span><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Whispers of His Powers - Amy Carmichael</span></span></em><span style="color: black;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>Abide with Me: fast falls the even-tide; </strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>The darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide.</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>When other helpers fail and comforts flee, </strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>Help of the helpless, Oh abide with me!</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">I need Thy presence every passing hour. </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">What but Thy grace can foil the tempter’s power?</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">Who like Thyself my guide and strength can be?</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">Through cloud and</span> sunshine, Oh abide with me.</strong></em> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">H. Lyte</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9340</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Ye are complete in HIm. . . . Colossians 2:10 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">A friend sent to me a bookmark that reads:</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Birds do not sing because they have an answer,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">They sing because they have a song!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The birds do not have all the answers, but they sing because they have a song </span><span style="color: black;">within. We are told to consider the birds. They have their mishaps and miseries, </span><span style="color: black;">but not even a sparrow falls without God’s notice. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #380efa;">(Matthew 10:29)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The Christian does not have all the answers to the </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;">whys</span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"> that baffle and </span><span style="color: black;">perplex him, but He has the Answer in whom are gathered up all our problems. </span><span style="color: black;">We see yet not all things put under Jesus, but we see Him </span><strong><span style="color: #1b10f9;">(Hebrews 2:8-9) </span></strong><span style="color: black;">and He is our song.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3509e6;">“And He hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #3509e6;">Many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the Lord.” Psalm 40:3</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"> </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Vance Havner </span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">.</span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">I have a song that Jesus gave me, it was sent from heaven above; </span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">There never was a sweeter melody, ‘tis a melody of love.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">I love the Christ who died on Calvary, for He washed my sins away; </span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">He put within my heart a melody, and I know it’s there to stay.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">‘Twill be my endless theme in glory, with the ransomed I will sing; </span></strong><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">‘Twill be a song with glorious harmony, when the courts of heaven ring</span></strong>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Elton Roth</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9341</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">SEVEN STEPS DOWNWARD</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3208f4;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Christ Jesus: who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal </span></span></strong><strong><span style="color: #3208f4;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">with God: but made Himself of no reputation, (emptied Himself) and took upon </span></span></strong><strong><span style="color: #3208f4;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being </span></span></strong><strong><span style="color: #3208f4;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto </span></span></strong><strong><span style="color: #3208f4;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">death, </span><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">even the death of the cross</span></span><span style="font-size: 15px;">. Philippians 2:5-8</span></span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">“He emptied Himself.” Remember it was when He was in the form of God that He emptied Himself. It was love made Him empty Himself: of all His outward glory: but let us remember that He never ceased to be God. That Babe in the manger was Emmanuel, <strong><span style="color: #3707f9;">“God with us,”</span></strong> Just as truly God,— upholding all things by the word of His power, as when <strong><span style="color: #170cf6;">“all things were</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #170cf6;">created by Him and for Him.” (Colossians 1 :16)</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Could there be another step downwards, beyond death? We would not have thought so: but the Father, Who looked down with perfect delight on all that pathway, sees one more step: not only did He become obedient unto death: but that death, was the death of a cross.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">That last step tells out the awfulness, the horror, the shame, the anguish of the death to which He became obedient. <strong><span style="color: #0c0cf9;">“Jesus…endured the cross, </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #0c0cf9;">despising the shame.” (Hebrews 12:2)</span></strong> There was probably no death from which one so much shrink as <strong><span style="color: #2910f5;">“the death of the cross.”</span></strong> It was to this, the lowest step that could be taken, that the Lord of Glory went.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Philippians - G Christopher Willis </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9342</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3511f6;">In the day of my trouble I sought the Lord . . . I remembered God, I complained, </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #3511f6;">and my spirit was overwhelmed . . . I am so troubled that I cannot speak. But </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #3511f6;">I will remember the works of the Lord: surely I will remember Thy wonders of </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #3511f6;">old . . . Thy way is in the sea, and Thy footsteps are not known. Thou leddest </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #3511f6;">Thy people like a flock. (Psalm 77) </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Have you noticed how, when you are in heaviness, you are always tempted to think about yourself—your uselessness, your failures, your nothingness—yourself in one way or another? . . . Straight against this is the word we have in this Psalm.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">When I am in heaviness, I will think upon God. I will turn my thoughts from myself to my Father Who loves me and does not stop loving me, though I am useless and a failure and less than nothing at all.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It may seem quite impossible that we should rise and triumph, but <strong><span style="color: #0a19f4;">”Thou art </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #0a19f4;">the God that doeth wonders.”</span></strong> We do not understand this strange way; be it so. <strong><span style="color: #2b12f3;">“Thy way is in the sea.”</span></strong> Who can find footsteps in the sea? Even so, even there, <strong><span style="color: #250bf7;">“Thou led Thy people like sheep.”</span></strong> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Amy Carmichael</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9343</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Servants, be subject to your masters with all fear; (respect) not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward (unjust). 1 Peter 2:18</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">THE WORKPLACE</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">God puts high value on work. To work is an honourable thing. If you work for someone, how is the work environment? How does your employer treat the employees? How does your employer treat you?</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">We know that God is all about relationships. Our verse for today provides valuable advice for the employee (servant) as how he/she relates to the boss(es).</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">First it speaks of being subject to them. Their position of authority commands that. </span><span style="color: black;">I once had a Principal who had a doctor's degree already by his early thirties - he was Dr. "Doe." I had been teaching 7 years longer than he had been alive. What was I to do? Be subject to him - he was my boss! It provided a good object lesson for my students.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Next it tells us <strong><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">how</span></strong> to be subject to them - <strong>“with all respect.”</strong> Yes, when we interact with them we are to be respectful, in actions and in words. Is that always easy to do?</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">No, because it goes on to say, <strong><span style="color: blue;">“not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward.”</span></strong> And, there may be employers who don’t see the big picture (or the details) as well as you do - yes that happens more than we realize. Still, we’re called to be subject and respectful, and here’s why:</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">For this is thank-worthy, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully.” </span></strong></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">(verse 19)</span></strong></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Who knows but what, by our respectfulness, some might be drawn to the Christ they see in us. <strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">L.I.F.E. LINES - Fred Pratt</span> </strong></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9344</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Psalm 50:15</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. Psalm 91:15</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">In the above verses we are given to see in advance some of the blessings we can reap from the day of trouble. It is a day in which we have a special invitation to call upon the Lord. We also have the assurance of God’s response: </span><strong><span style="color: blue;">“I will deliver thee.”</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">God said the same thing in </span><strong><span style="color: blue;">Psalm 91:15, “He shall call upon Me.”</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> and He adds, </span><strong><span style="color: blue;">“And I will answer Him.”</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Thus the first blessing is fellowship and communion with Him. We call and He answers. Furthermore His presence is felt: </span><strong><span style="color: blue;">“I will be with him in trouble.”</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> If the trouble is as severe as the fiery furnace, He will walk with us so that no harm will befall us. His promise is not only, </span><strong><span style="color: blue;">“I will deliver Him,”</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> but it goes beyond this: </span><strong><span style="color: blue;">“and honour HIm.”</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> So, a day starting with trouble can end with honour!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">But still more wonderful than that is the statement,</span><strong><span style="color: blue;">”and Thou shalt glorify Me.”</span></strong><span style="color: black;">Just think of all the blessings that we gain when God permits us to have a </span><strong><span style="color: blue;">“day of </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">trouble:“</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> fellowship, deliverance, and honour. But best of all, we glorify Him. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> A. M. Behnam</span></span><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">Our times are in Thy hand, Father, we wish them there;</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">Our life, our soul, our all, we leave entirely to Thy care. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">W. F. Lloyd</span></span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: blue;"> </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9345</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3608f1;">My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me: and I give unto </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #3608f1;">them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand. My Father which gave them Me is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of My Father’s hand. I and My Father are one. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3608f1;">(John 10:27-30)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The wilderness journey of Israel is a beautiful, lively picture of the journey the believer is now taking from the blood <strong><span style="color: #1f10f5;">(Exodus 12:13)</span></strong> to the glory <strong><span style="color: #180ef1;">(Colossians 3:4)</span></strong>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">We are out of Egypt and looking toward Canaan. The danger is, not lest the blood should not be on the door, but lest we should break down by the way, as thousands did in the wilderness.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It never calls you to re-investigate the question of having found rest in the blood, but to take care how you travel along the road. <strong><span style="color: #490cf1;">“Today if ye will hear His voice, harden not your heart.” (Hebrews 4:7)</span></strong>. He calls the whole through which we are passing </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">one day—</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1413f3;">“Today”</span></strong>. It was a short day to the dying thief, a short day to the martyred Stephen. A longer day to Paul, and a longer day still to John; but let the wilderness journey </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">be short or long, it is one day, and you are to hold by Christ to the very end. Cling to Him day by day till the wilderness journey is over. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Hebrews - J. G. Bellett</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9346</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #4c10f4;">Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee: </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #4c10f4;">because he trusteth in Thee. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #4c10f4;">Isaiah 26:3</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">All the way my Saviour leads me—what have I to ask beside? Can I doubt His tender mercy, who through life has been my guide? Heavenly peace, divinest comfort, here by faith in Him to dwell! For I know, what ever befall me, Jesus doeth all things well.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2713f7;">As rivers of water in a dry place, as a shadow of a great rock in a weary land.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2713f7;">Isaiah 32:2</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock that shadows a dry, thirsty land; He hideth my life with the depths of His love, and covers me there with His hand.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3a12f6;">Be careful for nothing. Philippians 4:6 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Safe in the arms of Jesus, safe on His gentle breast, There by His love o’er shaded, sweetly my soul shall rest. Hark! ‘tis the voice of angels, borne in a song to me.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Over the fields of glory, over the jasper sea.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Safe in the arms of Jesus, safe from corroding care, </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Safe rom the world’s temptations, sin cannot harm me there. Free from the blight of sorrow, free from my doubts and fears; Only a few more trials, only a few more tears!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">The Treasures of Fanny Crosby</span></strong> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">(Physically blinded at six weeks)</span></strong> </em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9347</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2a11f3;">When they had laid many stripes upon them (Paul and Silas) they cast them into </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #2a11f3;">prison, charging the jailor to keep them safely: who…thrust them into the inner prison, and made their feet fast in the stocks. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2a11f3;">Acts 16:23-24</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">But midnight approached, and what was heard in the prison? Any one passing by outside that night would have concluded that they were having a good time in there. Paul and Silas were praying and singing praises unto God. But their feet were fast in the stocks, their backs bleeding from the stripes they had received; hungry, cold. The prisoners heard these songs of praise going up to God.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">God stepped in; there was a physical earthquake which shook the prison to its very foundations. The doors opened, every prisoner’s bands loosened,<strong> <span style="color: #2410f3;">“and the keeper of the prison awaking out of his sleep and seeing the prison doors open</span></strong>, <strong><span style="color: #151ff4;">drew out his sword and would have killed himself.” </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Note how beautifully the grace of God interposed. The voice of God’s servant, whom the jailor had treated so cruelly a few hours before was heard saying, <strong><span style="color: #2e10ed;">“Do thyself no harm, for we are all here.” (16:28)</span></strong> The earthquake woke him out of his sleep, but what touched his conscience was that he heard a man, whom he had treated in the most brutal manner calling to him in a most tender, loving way <strong><span style="color: #3c0bea;">“Do thyself no harm.”</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #121cf2;">“Sirs, What must I </span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: #121cf2;">do to be saved</span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: #121cf2;">?” </span><span style="color: black;">He is not told to do anything but believe</span><span style="color: #121cf2;">.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #121cf2;">“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved.” (Acts 16:31} </span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Now he was a saved man by simply believing God’s message. The lion had become </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">a lamb. <strong><span style="color: #3315f5;">(Acts 16:33-34) </span></strong>The servant of the devil had become a happy servant of Christ. What freedom indeed is that which grace brings to sin’s captives through the sweet and lovely name of Jesus. <strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Night Scenes of Scripture - </span></strong><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">W. T. P. Wolston</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9348</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 28<br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #390cee;">Who being the brightness of His glory, and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high. </span></strong><strong><span style="color: #390cee;">Hebrews 1:3</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Grammatically speaking, the word <strong><span style="color: #1b0bfa;">“Himself”</span></strong> does not need to be in this text. It could read, “when He had purged our sins.” However the Spirit of God has added it and surely it is to convey to us the incredible loneliness He endured purging our sin.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And is it not to reinforce that there was no one else who could complete the work? Christ alone could cleanse me from my sins. How thankful we are for those words</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2c0eef;">“by Himself.”</span></strong> <em><strong><span style="color: #212121;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Paul Robertson</span></span></strong></em> .</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">On earth the song begins;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In heaven more sweet and loud—</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">To Him that cleansed our sins</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">By His atoning blood;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">To Him, we sing in joyful strain,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Be honour, power, and praise, Amen.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Alone He bare the cross,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Alone its grief sustained;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">His was the shame and loss,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And He the victory gained;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The mighty work was all His own,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Tho’ we shall share His glorious throne.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Joseph Swain </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> N.J.Hiebert - 9349</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #4504f9;">By faith Moses, when he was born, was hid three months of his parents, because they saw he was a proper child; and they were not afraid of the king’s commandment.” Hebrews 11:23</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Those of us who have lived in a land dominated by a hostile foe can perhaps better appreciate the magnificent courage of this devoted couple, when they were not afraid of the king’s commandment. It was a trial of their faith, but we know that it was <strong><span style="color: #1308f7;">“much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire.” 1 Peter 1:7</span></strong>. And how God honoured their faith! Each of their three children became one of His own honoured servants.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">What a cheer to parents today to take a stand boldly on the Lord’s side for their children, to count on Him alone, and to fear no man! Surely He will honour such faith today, just as He honoured it in the days of Amram and Jochebed, (Moses parents).</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">But Jochebed teaches us another most lovely lesson. Pharaoh had charged all his people, saying, Every son that is born ye shall cast into the river. Jochebed obeys the king. She owns that the king’s command applies to her son, and she casts him into the river, but hidden in an ark, so that not one drop of those waters of death could touch him. And God richly honours her faith.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">You all know the story. The king’s daughter takes him up, and the baby’s sister runs to <strong><span style="color: #2708ef;">“call a nurse,”</span></strong> who is no other than the child’s own mother. With what joy she takes that little one from the arms of the king’s daughter, not now for herself, but for the one who has saved him. <strong><span style="color: #0808f5;">“Take this child away, and nurse it for </span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: #0808f5;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">me</span></span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: #0808f5;">, and I will give thee thy wages.” (Exodus 2:9)</span></strong>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Jochebed knew her time was limited before she must send Moses back into Pharaoh’s court to be learned in <strong><span style="color: #2415f1;">”all the wisdom of the Egyptians.” (Acts 7:22) </span></strong> But I believe that she had peace through her faith in God that all would be well and he would ultimately lead to the deliverance of God”s people. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Christian (December 2019) G. C. Willis (adapted) </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9350</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 30</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1f10f1;">It is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful. 1 Corinthians 4:2</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It is not given to all Christians to witness a spectacular work of God either in their own spiritual experience or in their ministry. That is no indication of divine disapproval. The Spirit divideth severally as He will.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">We are prone to measure our experience in the light of someone else’s testimony,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">and grow depressed because our little work may look drab or uneventful. It is well to remember that Matthew Henry considered his pastoral work almost a failure, but his commentary stands on the shelves of thousands of fundamental preacher’s studies today.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">To be sure, we may be living short of what God has for us. But if we are in His will as best we know, it is required only that we be faithful. Promotion hereafter is for being faithful now, <strong><span style="color: #0f13f1;">“faithful over a few things,” (Matthew 25:23) “Faithful in that which is least.“ (Luke 16:10)</span></strong> . </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">True-hearted, whole-hearted, Saviour all - glorious!</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">Take Thy great power and reign there alone,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">Over our wills and affections victorious, </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">Freely surrendered and wholly Thine own. </span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Frances Ridley Havergal</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9351</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. Revelation 21:4</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">I have not the thought of what we shall do in glory: my thought is, </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;">Christ will be there</span></strong></em><span style="color: black;">. I shall be in the place where everything is ruled by the mind of Christ.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Have you known down here the calming effect of realizing His presence, hearing Him</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">breathing out like oil on the waters, </span><strong><span style="color: #1c0cf2;">“It is I!”</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> What will it be to be in a world where all is subject to Him who gives such peace even here! What will heaven be, when all that He is, all His perfect grace, will come out to us in the Father’s house!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">What will it be where everything will be attuned to the name of Jesus! The full stream of His affections will flow over and spread blessing everywhere, </span><strong><span style="color: #1b11ef;">“His fullness” (John 1:16)</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> poured forth to fill every heart, and every heart perfectly filled and satisfied with it. </span><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Gleanings From the Teaching of G. V. Wigram</span></span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">What will it be to dwell above, and with the Lord of glory reign, </span></span></strong></em><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Since the blest knowledge of HIs love so brightens all this dreary plain? </span></span></strong></em><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">No heart can think, no tongue can tell what joy ‘twill be with Christ to dwell.</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">When left this scene of faith and strife, the flesh and sense deceive no more, </span></span></strong></em><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">When we shall see the Prince of life, and all His works of grace explore: </span></span></strong></em><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">What heights and depths of love divine will there through endless ages shine!</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">And God has fixed the happy day when the last tear shall dim our eyes; </span></span></strong></em><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">When He will wipe these tears away, and fill our hearts with glad surprise; </span></span></strong></em><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">To hear His voice, and see His face, and know the fullness of His grace. </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. Swain - 1792 </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.HIebert - 9352</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #4504f9;">Hast Thou considered My servant Job. Job 1:8</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Job, a wealthy Oriental sheik, lived in the days before the knowledge of God had been lost, though it is evident that idolatry, particularly the worship of the heavenly bodies, already had supplanted in places the older worship. For, be it remembered, paganism is not a step upward in the evolution of religion.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">It is rather a declension, as Romans 1 shows us. Men turned from the living and true God to these vain idols, and </span><strong><span style="color: #240af8;">“for this cause God gave them up“ (Romans 1:26)</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> to all sorts of unclean practices. But Job had escaped all this. He was perfect in his behaviour, upright in all his ways, one who reverenced God and detested iniquity.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">In chapters 1 and 2, we get a remarkable revelation of things in the unseen world. Job is the subject of a conversation between God and Satan, </span><strong><span style="color: #3c07f5;">“the accuser of the brethren.” (Revelation 12:10)</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> </span><strong><span style="color: #0b15f5;">who accuses them before God day and night</span></strong><span style="color: black;">. The Lord challenges Satan, </span><strong><span style="color: #440bf3;">“Hast thou considered My servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth…one that feareth God, and eschewth evil?</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> (blameless and upright) </span><strong><span style="color: #4a12f8;">(Job 1:8)</span></strong><span style="color: black;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Note, Job was all that God said he was—a man of faith, a true child of God. This book gives us, then, not the repentance of a sinner, but the repentance of a saint.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Satan denies the truthfulness of the divine estimate of Job and particularly declares that Job does not love and reverence the Lord for what He is in Himself, but for what Job receives at His hand. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">To prove the contrary, the devil is permitted to wrest from the patriarch all that he possessed. Instead of renouncing God, Job exclaims, </span><strong><span style="color: #3e16f7;">“The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord” (Job 1:21).</span></strong><span style="color: black;">Thus far Satan is defeated, but he is relentless. </span><strong><span style="color: #170df3;">“Shall we receive good at the hand of God, and shall we not receive evil?” (Job 2:10) </span></strong><span style="color: black;"> He glorifies God in the fires. Satan is defeated. Job is loyal and loves God for Himself alone, and not simply for His gifts. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">It is a marvellous thing thus to find one to whom God means more than all earthly possessions, yes, than life itself. </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Unless You Repent - H. A. Ironside </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9353</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #160bf4;">For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #160bf4;">John 3:16</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>How wondrous the glories that meet in Jesus, and from His face shine. </strong></em><em><strong>His love is eternal and sweet; ‘tis human, ‘tis also divine!</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>His glory—not only God’s Son—in manhood He had His full part— </strong></em><em><strong>And the union of both joined in one forms the fountain of love in His heart.</strong></em> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Robert </span></strong></em><span style="font-size: 9px;"> </span><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Hawker</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It was love, divine, precious, unspeakable love that led Him to die for us on that accursed tree, and, if you believe on Him, you have eternal life through His death. I say receive it, believe it. You may tell me you cannot understand it. No, but <em>what I cannot understand I can believe, what I cannot fathom I can swim in,</em> what I cannot comprehend I can enjoy I know that God’s Son has died for me, and I know that the source of all blessing is in His perfect love.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>Could I with ink the ocean fill, were every blade of grass a quill, </strong></em><em><strong>Were the whole heaven of parchment made, and every man a scribe by trade;</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>To write the love of God above would drain the ocean dry, </strong></em><em><strong>Nor could th<span style="font-size: 15px;">e scroll contain the whole, though stretched from sky to sky</span></strong></em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">F. M. Lehman</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Think of being loved by God after such a sort, and yet not believing it. Believe it now, my friend and you will have everlasting life. But you tell me, I do not know for whom this everlasting life is. The answer is here: it is for <strong><span style="color: #4c19ea;">“<span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">whosoever believeth in Him.</span>”</span></strong> Believing in Jesus, you shall not perish, but have everlasting life. You will be brought into everlasting blessing, in association with the Son of God. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">What you have to do is to trust Him, bow down your heart to Him, and then confess Him. That is the way of salvation. For it is added, <strong><span style="color: #4f13f5;">“God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved.” (John 3:17)</span></strong> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Night Scenes of Scripture - W. T. P. Wolston </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9354</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 4</span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-39088108445767887852023-08-01T06:30:00.045-04:002023-08-30T06:46:36.584-04:00Gems from August 2023<p><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="color: black;">WEATHER WATCHERS</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #122eee;">He that observeth the winds shall not sow; and he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap. Ecclesiastes 11:4</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">If a farmer waited until he was sure of the weather he would never raise a crop. He has to reckon with the weather and contend with it, but he cannot be sure of it. So every year he makes a venture of faith.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">We cannot let the wind and clouds of circumstance determine our course. We cannot grow a harvest for God with one eye on the weather. Just as with the farmer, circumstances are to be considered, and we shall not foolishly disregard them. But we must not let them be the main factors in making our decisions.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Too many saints live fearfully from one “weather report” to another, scanning the skies and watching the clouds, conscious of “conditions“ rather than of Christ. Faith goes ahead in fair weather and foul. It breaks up the fallow ground, sows the seed, cultivates the crop, and gathers the harvest.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">There may be pests and floods and droughts, but the Lord of the Harvest will see to it that our labour is not in vain. </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Day by Day with Vance Havner</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #122eee;">N.J.Hiebert - 9290</span></p><p><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: x-large; font-weight: 400; white-space-collapse: collapse;"><br /></span></span></strong></p><p><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: x-large; font-weight: 400; white-space-collapse: collapse;">August 1</span></span></strong></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1d0dfa;">Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are My friends. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1d0dfa;">John 15:13,14 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">What a Friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear! </span></strong><strong><span style="color: black;">What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer!</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">O, what peace we often forfeit, O, what needless pain we bear; </span></strong><strong><span style="color: black;">All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer!</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere? </span></strong><strong><span style="color: black;">We should never be discouraged; Take it to the Lord in prayer.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">Can we find a Friend so faithful, Who will all our sorrows share? </span></strong><strong><span style="color: black;">Jesus knows our every weakness—Take it to the Lord in prayer.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care? </span></strong><strong><span style="color: black;">Precious Saviour, still our refuge,—take it to the Lord in prayer.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">Do thy friends despise, forsake thee? Take it to the Lord in prayer; </span></strong><strong><span style="color: black;">In His arms He’ll take and shield thee, thou wilt find a solace there.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Joseph M. Scriven</span></span><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 13px;">(1819—1886)</span></strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"></span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9291</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1c0cf3;">We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. 1 John 3:14</span></strong></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">Sorrows and trials are not only like the sand and grit that polish a stone, but I shall be made to taste, through the trouble, what Christ is to me.</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">If an angel from heaven were to come to my bedside, and tell me that Christ was occupied with me, as a member of His body, should I be more certain of that love than I am?</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">It is no delusion but a fact, that Christ loves me, and will love me right on to the end; and He will not cease making me know it till He gets me into the Father’s house to be eternally in the full fruition of it.</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">What a happy people we should be if we were mirrors reflecting Christ, in the perfect consciousness of our weakness, but looking at Christ in heaven, bearing up amidst all the evil that is coming in like a flood, because He is up there! </p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Gleanings </span><span style="font-size: 10px;">From the</span><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Teaching </span><span style="font-size: 10px;">of </span><span style="font-size: 13px;">- G. V. Wigram </span></strong></em></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9292</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2814f6;">The heart knoweth his own bitterness. Proverbs 14:10 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">There is one heart that fits into that sentence; It is the heart that was broken by reproach; that was melted in the hot furnace of deepest affliction, and that experienced the unspeakable bitterness of Calvary’s woe.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The Father knows and understands what it meant to His Son to bear sin’s judgment, and the Holy Spirit can gauge the infinite depths of suffering into which He went when He suffered, the Just One for us the unjust; but none other in the wide universe can share with Him the knowledge of the mystery of those awful hours, the bitterness of the cup that He drank then, or know the cost that redemption laid upon Him.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The suffering is over now and the judgment is all exhausted for us forever, for He has been raised up from the dead, but His love abides in all its unchanging strength, and it can only be measured by what it suffered. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. T Mawson</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9293</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #5004f8;">Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. Matt. 10:29-31</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">There is nothing great or small to Him who rules the world. Page after page in God’s blessed Book reveals this. Those who delight to follow the unfolding of the Divine purpose, in the minute chain of circumstances developed there, will love to see God everywhere, and to find a speech and language in the daily events of life: the heart will be full of Him who filleth all creation.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">When the <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">stripling shepherd</span> </span><span style="color: #0a14f1;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">(1 Sam. 17;17)</span></span><span style="color: black;"> took corn and loaves to his brethren, it was his first step towards the throne. <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Ahasuerus’s sleepless night</span> led to </span><span style="color: #1f0beb;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">(Esther 6:1-10)</span></span><span style="color: black;"> Mordecai’s promotion. When <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Ruth went forth to glean in the fields of Boaz</span>, </span><span style="color: #340ffa;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">(Ruth 2:2-3)</span></span><span style="color: black;"> she knew not that her foot was on her own fair inheritance.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">When the <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">woman of Samaria </span></span><span style="color: #3b12f7;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">(John 4:6-39)</span></span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;"> carried her pitcher to the well</span>, it was to meet One greater than her father Abraham, and One who gave unto her the living water. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The Lord, will be all things to us according to our faith. He manifests Himself as the Friend who sticketh closer than a brother. Whatever thy need; the almighty Lord can meet it. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">He condescended to encourage the timid Gideon </span><span style="color: #2d0be5;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">(Judges 6:37,39:713)</span></span><span style="color: black;"> by a twofold sign, and strengthen him by by the narration of a dream. He manifests Himself to the doubting Thomas </span><span style="color: #3211e6;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">(John 24-28)</span></span><span style="color: black;"> in the way best calculated to dispel his doubt and remove his unbelief. He is still the same Jesus. He knows the hearts He has to deal with. He knew what we were when He called us to follow Him. He foresaw that we should distrust Him, deny Him, forsake Him. But He is the Almighty God, and not man; He loves us with an everlasting love. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The Lord who said, </span><span style="color: #0c11ef;">“I will bring the blind by a way they know not,”</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: #1611ed;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">(Isaiah 42:16)</span></span><span style="color: black;"> also <span style="font-size: 14px;">promised, </span></span><span style="color: #3809f3;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">“Thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left” (Isaiah 30:21)</span></span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">.</span> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Secret of the Lord - Anna Shipton </span></span></em><span style="color: black;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9294 </span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Inclusive of all (or most) except God!</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1313f1;">For the terrible one is brought to nought, and the scorner is consumed, and all that watch for iniquity are cut off: That make a man an offender for a word, and lay a snare for him that reproveth in the gate, and turn aside the just for a thing of nought. (Isaiah 29:20)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Some topics are very sensitive to many people. Some take offence at one ill chosen word. Public discourse is highly monitored and any carelessness is quickly pointed out and brought to light. Many have lost job or social position over some word or expression many a time gratuitously qualified as “hate speech”. Reminds me of God’s warning to such persecutors—<strong><span style="color: #2208f6;">(Isaiah 29:20)</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">We have new nouns and pronouns being promoted for people: non-binary person for one confused about their identity, gender fluid a similar confusion, they for her or him, birthing person for mother! Now, how about MAP, for Minor Attracted Person (not to be so bigoted as to call them pedophiles).</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Is it not time to wake up and take note of the very perilous times we are in when good is called evil and evil is called good. <strong><span style="color: #210cf6;">(Isaiah 5:20)</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">God speaking through His prophet Isaiah says: Judgment is turned away backward, and justice stands afar off: for truth is fallen in the street, and equity cannot enter. Yea, truth fails; and he that departs from evil makes himself a prey: and the LORD saw it, and it displeased him that there was no judgment. <strong><span style="color: #0b05f8;">(Isaiah.29:20)</span></strong>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">Michel for Vision 2020 in 2023</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9295</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1d08ee;">I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me. Galatians 2:20</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">One subject for which there is an open season for criticism, and often qualified as bigotry, closed mindedness or archaic beliefs is the Christian faith and the God it confides in. Berating the Lord Jesus Christ is not passible of any legal pursuit or public reproach. Yet the One to Whom all will have to answer to is still waiting in patience to eternally bless some ultimate lost soul.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">There is judgment coming; make no mistake about it! But God is patient not willing that any should perish. You may ignore this message, pass it on (we hope), or send it to the trash box on your computer.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">But, sincerely, our desire is only to afford you perhaps one last opportunity to turn to God and put you trust in One Who loves you and was ready to give His life for you by dying on the cross for your sins.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> The Lord Jesus Christ is the only One Who can save you from the judgment which is soon to fall upon this guilty Christ rejecting world. They hated Him without a cause! yet, He loved them still!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> His love constrains us to urge you to believe in Him and be able to say as the apostle Paul did: <strong><span style="color: #3613f6;">”The Son of God Who loved me and gave Himself for me.” </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Michel for Vision 2020 in 2023</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9296</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1606f7;">For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men. Titus 2:11</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #122eee;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The Christian is not to </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><ol style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; margin-bottom: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve;"><li style="margin-left: 15px;"><p style="direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">Receive the grace of God in vain <strong><span style="color: #260cf5;">(2 Corinthians 6:1)</span></strong></p></li><li style="margin-left: 15px;"><p style="direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">Set aside the grace of God <strong><span style="color: #2814f6;">(Galatians 2:21)</span></strong> </p></li><li style="margin-left: 15px;"><p style="direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">Fall away from grace <strong><span style="color: #2814f6;">(Galatians 5:4) </span></strong></p></li><li style="margin-left: 15px;"><p style="direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"> Do despite unto the Spirit of grace <strong><span style="color: #2814f6;">(Hebrews 10:29)</span></strong> </p></li><li style="margin-left: 15px;"><p style="direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"> Fall sort of the grace of God <span style="color: #2814f6;">(</span><strong><span style="color: #2814f6;">Hebrews 12:15)</span><span style="color: black;"> </span></strong></p></li><li style="margin-left: 15px;"><p style="direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"> Turn the grace of God into lasciviousness <strong><span style="color: #2814f6;">(Jude 4)</span></strong></p><p style="direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><strong>But on the contrary, the Christian is to </strong></p><p style="direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">1. Continue in the grace of God <strong><span style="color: #2814f6;">(Acts 13:43)</span></strong> </p><p style="direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">2. Stand in grace <strong><span style="color: #2814f6;">(Romans 5:2 </span><span style="color: black;">Compare</span><span style="color: #2814f6;"> 1 Peter 5:12) </span></strong></p><p style="direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">3. Be strengthened in the grace that is Christ Jesus <strong><span style="color: #2814f6;">(2 Timothy 2:1)</span></strong> </p><p style="direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">4. Draw near with boldness unto the throne of grace <strong><span style="color: #2814f6;">(Hebrews 4:16)</span></strong> </p><p style="direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">5. Be established in heart by grace <strong><span style="color: #2814f6;">(Hebrews 13:9)</span></strong> </p><p style="direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">6. Grow in the grace of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ <strong><span style="color: #2814f6;">(2 Peter 3:18)</span></strong> <strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Meditations on Galatians - G. C. Willis</span></strong></p><p style="direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px !important; margin-right: 0px !important; margin-top: 0px !important; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9297</p></li></ol></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0b05f8;">For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:9</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">What a challenge it is to be taught by God Himself!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> When we consider the school of God, we must acknowledge that there we not only have to learn many things, but that we also have to “unlearn” other things, because we entered His school with our minds set to our own ways. God speaks so His thoughts as being higher than our thoughts, and of His ways as different from ours. This is what we learn in the school of God.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">God’s school places emphasis upon discipline, even for lovers of God. Perhaps we don’t like this subject, because in our minds it has negative connotations. However, discipline is positive; it is meant to draw us. Certain languages, like Dutch and German, have a word for discipline, the root of which refers to the basic thought of <em><strong>drawing</strong></em>. Discipline actually is kind of being drawn:</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">—drawn to the Father of lights, <strong><span style="color: #0b05f8;">(James 1:17)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">—drawn to the Lord of Glory, <strong><span style="color: #0b05f8;">(1 Corinthians 2:8)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">—drawn to the wisdom from above, <strong><span style="color: #0b05f8;">(James 3:17)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">—drawn through the Holy Spirit, who is in control. <strong><span style="color: #0b05f8;">(Romans 8:9)</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">That is God’s principle of discipline. If we follow our own ways, God sometimes has to deal with us in a severe manner in order to remove hindrances and obstacles. He has to stop us, sometimes even force us, although He doesn’t like to do so.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> God wants to act according to the principle of attraction, but at times He has to correct us or to punish us in His governmental dealings. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">A. E. Bouter</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>Submission to the will of Him Who guides me still is surety of His love revealed.</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>My soul shall rise above this world in which I move; </strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">I conquer only where I yield</span></strong></em>. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">C. A, Miles</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9298</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #350bf8;">Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of Me. John 5:39</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The empire of Caesar is gone, the legions of Rome are mouldering in the dust; the avalanches that Napoleon hurled upon Europe have melted away; The pride of the Pharaohs is fallen; Tyre is a rock for bleaching fisherman’s nets; Sidon has scarcely scarcely left a wreck behind; but the Word of God still survives.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">All things that threaten to extinguish it, have only aided it; and it proves every day how transient is the noblest monument that man can build, how enduring is the least word God has spoken. The old simile of the hammers and the anvil is one of the truest and best. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">One day I passed beside a smithy’s door, and heard the anvil sound the vesper chime;</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">Then, looking in, I saw upon the floor, old hammers worn with beating years of time.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">How many anvils have you here, said I, to wear and batter all these hammers so?</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">Just one, the blacksmith said, with twinkling eye; the anvil wears the hammers out, you know.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">And so, said I, the anvil of God’s Word, for ages skeptic blows have beat upon;</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">Yet, though the sound of hammers thus was heard, the anvil yet remains; the hammer’s—gone!</span></strong></em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;"> </span></strong> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 11px;">The Wonderful Word - George Hnderson </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9299</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #122eee;">For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus the same night in which He was betrayed took bread: and when He had given thanks He brake it, and said, Take, eat: This is my body which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of Me. 1 Corinthians11:23-24 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The Lord Jesus cannot bear to be forgotten by those He loves to the end. Worthless hearts, some may say truly. Yes, but Jesus cares for them: He has died to make them His, and counts on remembrance of Him—giving us only that which may be the sweet expression of Him and His death for us.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">If the supper of the Lord means anything then, it meant this, that we love Him and miss Him in the world that cast Him out. He invests it with just this character Himself. </span><span style="color: #122eee;">“For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup ye do show the Lord’s death till He come.” (v.26).</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">It is in a scene that has been desolated for her by the death of Christ, and in which the Christ’s assembly finds no rest for her heart, only lingering around the spot where His cross and grave express the heart of the world towards Him. We know Him by faith in the glory, and have rest in communion with Him there. This only make us feel the world’s rejection of Him more keenly as we walk our path through it. It makes the cross that by which the world is crucified to us and we to the world. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">We recoil in our hearts from this blighted scene, and get away in spirit as far as possible from it, for we are only seeking more complete identification with Him in His rejection, as the best and brightest portion He can give us in such a world. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">This is not the attainment of an advanced Christian, but what Christ looks for from every heart that loves Him. Hear Him say </span><span style="color: #122eee;">“This do in remembrance of Me,“ </span><span style="color: black;">and again,</span><span style="color: #122eee;">”Ye do show the Lord’s death till He come.” </span><span style="color: black;">It is not as though He were saying, “Do they miss Me? Do they long for Me to come again? What answer do lour hearts give to these challenges of His Love? </span><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. A. Trench</span></span></em><span style="color: black;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9300</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2d0df7;">Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever. 1 Peter 1:23</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">An old professor of Biology used to hold a little brown seed in his hand and say, “I know just exactly the composition of this seed.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It has in it nitrogen, hydrogen and carbon. I know the exact proportions. I can make a seed that will look exactly like it. But if I plant my seed it will come to nought: its elements will be absorbed in the soil.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">If I plant the seed that God made, it will become a plant, because it contains the mysterious principle which we call “the life principle”.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The Bible looks like other books. We cannot understand altogether its marvellous power. Planted in good ground it shows that it has the life principle in itself; it brings forth spiritual fruit.”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Each page of thine hath true life in it,</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">And God’s bright mind expressed in print.</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 11px;">Christain Calendar </span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9301</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #122eee;">But one of the </span></strong><span style="color: #122eee;"><strong>soldiers with a spear pierced His side, and forthwith came there out blood and water. </strong></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #122eee;"><strong>John 19:34</strong></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #122eee;"><strong> </strong></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">QUESTION: </span></strong><span style="color: black;">Please explain why it was necessary that the spear should be thrust into the side of Christ, seeing He was already dead. Was His death not full payment to God for sin? Why is it said, <strong><span style="color: #3a0bf5;">"It is the </span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: #3a0bf5;">blood</span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: #3a0bf5;"> [not the death] that maketh an atonement for the soul?</span></strong></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong style="color: black;"><span style="color: #3a0bf5;">(Leviticus 17:11)</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> .</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">ANSWER:</span></strong><span style="color: black;">The spear thrust into the side (the heart) of Christ showed to all that His death was real, and moreover drew out those tokens of atonement and purification (blood and water) on which we rest, and by which we are cleansed. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> The death of Christ was a full atonement for sin, </span><em><span style="color: black;">but blood out of the body</span></em><span style="color: black;">, apart from it, is a proof of death (in the body, it is the life of it); and hence the blood is every where used for the atoning value of the death of Christ; not that blood is different from death, but because it is a proof of it.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The blood "making atonement" is a more beautiful thought than the death, </span><span style="color: black;">because it means the perfect life given up in death. The blood which was the life, now poured forth in death, is that which is so precious in God's sight.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">You will observe that when the death is spoken of, it is more often in connection with resurrection, presenting the truth of deliverance from sin <strong><span style="color: #300cf3;">(Romans 6)</span></strong>, rather than atonement for sins <strong><span style="color: #450bf7;">(Romans 3)</span></strong> The Young Christian, 1932 </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9302</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #122eee;">Giving things always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Ephesians 5:20</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">1 Thanks to God for my Redeemer, </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Thanks for all Thou dost provide!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Thanks for times now but a mem’ry, </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Thanks for Jesus by my side!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Thanks for pleasant, balmy spring-time, </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Thanks for dark and dreary fall!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Thanks for tears by now forgotten, </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Thanks for peace within my soul!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">2 Thanks for prayers that Thou hast answered, </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Thanks for what Thou dost deny!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Thanks for storms that I have weathered,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Thanks for all Thou dost supply!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Thanks for pain, and thanks for pleasure,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Thanks for comfort in despair!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Thanks for grace that none can measure,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Thanks for love beyond compare!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">3 Thanks for roses by the way-side,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Thanks for thorns their stems contain!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Thanks for home and thanks for fire-side,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Thanks for hope, that sweet refrain!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Thanks for joy and thanks for sorrow,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Thanks for heavenly peace with Thee!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Thanks for hope in the tomorrow,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Thanks through all eternity! </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">August Ludvig Storm -1891</span></span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9303</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #360cf8;">Godliness with contentment is great gain. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #360cf8;">1 Timothy 6:6</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">To give us Christ is more than if God had given us all the world. He can make more worlds, but He has no more Christs to bestow. If you have but daily bread enough to suffice, be content. Consider it is not having abundance that always makes life comfortable. A staff may help the traveler, but a bundle of staves will be a burden to him.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3808f7;">“What time I am afraid, I will trust in Thee.” (Pslam 56:3)</span></strong> Faith cures the trembling in heart; it gets above fear as oil swims above the water. To trust in God makes Him to be a God to us. God will turn all evils to our good <strong><span style="color: #0606f8;">(Romans 8:28)</span></strong>. Joseph’s imprisonment was a means for his advancement.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Out of the bitterest drug He will distil His glory and our salvation. In short, He will be our guide to death, our comfort in death, and our reward after death. <strong><span style="color: #190ef5;">“Happy is that people, whose . . . God is the LORD” </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #190ef5;">(Psalm 144:15)</span></strong>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">Thomas Watson </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9304</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #122eee;">For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:9</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">My host asked if I liked the painting on his wall. I stammered something polite. Amused, he suggested I step back a few feet. To my amazement, what was once blurry and nondescript, suddenly became clear and beautiful!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Perhaps there is something in your life that seems hard to decipher and difficult to understand. God sees the bigger picture.</span><span style="color: #122eee;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span><span style="color: black;"> From His point of view, the seemingly mismatched colours and </span><span style="color: #122eee;"><span style="color: black;">randomly drawn shapes all are at work to create a beautiful masterpiece. </span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #122eee;"><span style="color: black;">Allow the Lord to have His way, and trust the final product to Him. </span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #122eee;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lynn Shatford</span></span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #122eee;"><em><span style="color: black;">Judge not the Lord by feeble sense, but trust Him for His grace;</span></em></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #122eee;"><em><span style="color: black;">Behind a frowning providence, He hides a smiling face. </span></em></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #122eee;"><em><span style="color: black;">His purposes will ripen fast, unfolding every hour;</span></em></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #122eee;"><em><span style="color: black;">The bud may have a bitter taste, but sweet will be the flower.</span></em></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #122eee;"><em><span style="color: black;">Blind unbelief is sure to err, and scan His work in vain;</span></em></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #122eee;"><em><span style="color: black;">God is His Own interpreter, and He will make it plain. </span></em></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #122eee;"><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">William Cowper</span></span></em></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #122eee;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9305</span></span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">And we know that all things work together for good to them that love of God, to them who are the called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Years ago, before the advent of chemistry, a science called alchemy existed, and alchemist had a passion: finding a way to transform worthless metals into gold. Of course, they never succeeded. But God is the master alchemist. He has a passion for taking all things and working them for good.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Charles Spurgeon tells about one man who had complete faith that God would work everything for his good. During the reign of Queen Mary 1 of England, this man was captured for preaching the Gospel. He received the sentence of being burned alive at the stake in London.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">When he heard the sentence, he said, “Well, never mind.</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: black;"> God will work all things together for my good.</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: black;"> I don’t know how, but He will.”</span><span style="color: black;"> On his way to London, the guards treated the man roughly. In fact they they even threw him down to the ground, and broke his leg. Then they mocked the man, saying, "well, tell us how this will work together for your good." He said, "I don't know,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">but it will."</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Before they could continue </span><span style="color: black;">their</span><span style="color: black;"> trip, the guards had to take time to put the man’s leg into a splint. Because of this delay, the group arrived in London a day later than the guards had planned.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">But the night before they arrived, Queen Mary died, and Elizabeth had taken the throne. Instead of burning the man at the stake, Elizabeth pardoned him. So, although his broken leg was a bad thing, God used it for his good, saving his life through the delay it caused. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Remember that God is in charge. He sees the big picture; He knows the future. He controls all things, and He loves you more than you can imagine. Trust Him and even thank Him for situations that seem bad, because He works all things together for your good. <b> </b></span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">With thanks, F. Charters</span></span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: black;"></span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9306</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #122eee;">But this Man (Jesus), after He had offered one sacrifice for sins forever, sat down on the right hand of God. Hebrews 10:12</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The cross was the manifestation of goodness, in the midst of the wickedness of the world, in a way never to be found anywhere else.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">During Christ’s lifetime the heavens would open upon Him, and testify to His perfection and the Father’s delight in Him; and thus I learn the terrible evil of the heart that could resist such goodness.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> When I come to the cross, what a wretched creature I see myself to be; I have hated this blessed One, and, more than that, my sins brought Him there.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">But He is not there now! I come to the cross, and there is no Christ on it. Where is He? He is sitting at the right hand of God. But my sins brought Him to the cross; they were on Him there. Has He gone to God’s right hand in glory with them upon Him? No!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">What has become of them? I find in the cross that God has dealt with my sins when they were upon Christ. It was when He had by Himself purged our sins that He sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high.</span><strong><span style="color: #3e0af3;"> (Hebrews 1:3)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The Jewish priests were standing daily, offering oftentimes the same sacrifices but this Man, after </span><em><strong><span style="color: #2909f9;">He had offered one sacrifice for sins, forever sat down</span></strong></em><span style="color: black;">. </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. N. Darby </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J. HIebert - 9307</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">His delight is in the law of the LORD; and in His law doth He meditate day and night. Psalm 1:2</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">Meditation is the soul’s retiring of itself, that by a serious and solemn thinking upon God, the heart may be raised up to heavenly affections.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;"><strong>Meditation OPPOSED BY THE DEVIL</strong></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">The devil is an enemy to meditation; he cares not how much people read and hear, nor how little they meditate; he knows that meditation is a means to compose the heart, and to bring it into a gracious frame; now the devil is against that; Satan is content that you should be hearing and praying Christians, so that you be not meditating Christians, he can stand your small shot, provided that you do not put in this bullet.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;"><strong>Meditation HINDERED BY THE WORLD</strong></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">A Christian when he goes to meditate, must lock up himself from the world. The world spoils meditation; Christ went <strong><span style="color: #230ef5;">"apart"</span></strong> into the mount to pray, so go apart when you are to meditate; <strong><span style="color: #250af6;">"Isaac went out to meditate in the field" (Genesis 24:63).</span></strong> He sequestered and retired himself that he might take a walk with God by meditation. The world's music will either play us asleep, or distract us in our meditations. <strong> </strong></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;"> When a mote is gotten into the eye, it hinders the sight; when worldly thoughts, as motes, are gotten into the mind, which is the eye of the soul, it cannot look up so steadfastly to heaven by contemplation. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;"> When Abraham went to sacrifice he left his servant and the donkey at the bottom of the hill<strong><span style="color: #160bf3;"> (Genesis 22:5)</span></strong>, so, when a Christian is going up the hill of meditation, he should leave all secular cares at the bottom of the hill, that he may be alone, and take a turn in heaven. This is the first thing, lock and bolt the door against the world.<strong> </strong><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Meditation - Thomas Watson </span></strong></em></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #4d4d4d;">N.J.Hiebert - 9308</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #4110ec;">The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but is long-suffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. 2 Peter 3:9</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Warning shots <span style="font-size: 11px;">(Part 1)</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The warship fires its guns pointing its turrets to the sea. This signals that should the pursed ship or shore facility not respond immediately and adequately, the next shots will be on target. <br />The policeman fires his gun into the air warning the fleeing criminal that the next shots will wound or even be fatal should he not stop and surrender.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Have you noticed the warning shots lately? Forest fires across Europe and North America even lately Hawaii, the paradise island? Flooding here and there! Excessive heat, record-breaking in many places. All this is attributed in the media to climate change. This could very well be the means God is using but, make no mistake, He is behind these warning shots.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">We need to stop and surrender to God. He is warning us of much more severe judgments now appearing clearly on the horizon. Do not be negligent of His patience. He is not willing that any should perish but some will and we pray you would not be part of those. <strong><span style="color: #1708f2;">(2 Peter 3:9</span></strong>)</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The moral and political atmosphere of this world has never been more opposed to the God now revealed from heaven. Take notice of the warning shots; stop and listen to the instructions following these. God has manifested Himself in the blessed person of the Lord Jesus Christ Who came into the world to save sinners. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">He saves them by paying for their sins on the cross by the sacrifice of Himself. This has been done, completed, accepted, never to be repeated, and has been preached all over the world. <strong><span style="color: #2608e9;">(1 Timothy 1:15)</span></strong>. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Michel for Vision 2020 in 2023</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9309</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and Thou shalt be saved. Acts 16:31</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Warning Shots - Part 2</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">You already have heard the message of God’s love? Or you may be hearing it for the first time? No matter! </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">He is calling you to repentance and acceptance of His undertaking for your salvation by delivering</span><strong><span style="color: black;"> </span></strong><span style="color: black;">His own Son to the torments of the cross to spare you from His judgments: the soon coming ones and the eternal one. This earth is soon to experience the judgments described in the book of Revelation and elsewhere in the Bible. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> And after God’s final plans for the earth come to pass, there will be eternal judgment for those who will not have believed in His Son the Lord Jesus Christ. </span><strong><span style="color: #0e1efb;">“Whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire” (Revelation 20:15)</span></strong><span style="color: black;">.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Warning shots are loud.</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: black;"> They are meant to be heard and affect those being warned; that is the intent.</span><span style="color: black;">Are you listening? </span><span style="color: black;"> Have you heard them?</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: black;"> There have been many since the beginning of this new decade: a world wide pandemic, major </span><span style="color: black;">catastrophes in many places, even reminding us again across the world of the sad fate of any pretension linked to the Titanic.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> We pray you will have taken notice and act accordingly, that is, repent from your sins and accept the free gift of forgiveness and eternal life God graciously offers and gives to those who believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. <strong><span style="color: #2108ef;">“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you will be saved”. (Acts 16:31).</span></strong> Jesus alone can deliver us from the wrath to come <strong><span style="color: #2112f2;">(1 Thessalonians 1:10)</span></strong> . <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Michel for Vision 2020 in 2023</span></strong></em> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9310</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Peter said, “Man, I know not what though sayest.” And immediately, while he yet spake, the cock crew. And the Lord turned, and looked upon Peter and Peter remembered the word of the Lord, how He had said unto him, “Before the cock crow, thou shalt deny me thrice.” and Peter went out, and wept bitterly. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Luke 22:60-62 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">THE RESTORING LOOK OF CHRIST</span><span style="color: blue;"> </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">What kind of a look do you think the Lord gave Peter?</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: black;"> Was it a withering look of scorn and contempt?</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: black;"> Did it say, “Evil doer, liar!” In its glance?</span><span style="color: black;">Peter deserved that it should; but oh, no, it was a look of broken-hearted love, of love so tender and strong. A look that said, "I love you still, Peter; if you do not know Me, I know I love you." And Peter went out and wept bitterly.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">I am not surprised that he wept bitterly. The grace of the heart that he had wounded broke him down. Then afterwards we are told of the Lord's meeting and restoring this backsliding one. He appeared to Peter after His resurrection. The fact is recorded, but did you ever wonder <em><strong>how</strong></em> He restored him? Did you ever wonder what passed between the Lord and Peter that day? He does not tell us. We only know the fact. The Lord does not tell out all that goes on between a soul and Himself.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">He not only restores Peter, but He brings him to judge the thing that led him away, and them He trusts him again. The backslider never gets right with God till he has it all out with Him. When you get back and judge the point of departure, then He restores the soul. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The Lord does what we never do. We say, “I could never trust so-and-so again after what has happened.” The Lord shows out to all how He can trust Peter after He has made him to judge himself. <strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">W. T. P. Wolston </span></strong></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">My soul He doth restore again: and me to walk doth make</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">Within the paths of righteousness, e’en for His own Name’s sake.</span></strong></em> <strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">F. Rous</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9311</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1f10f3;">Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The whole business of Christian education is summed up in two brief sentences: Count on God for your children, and, Train your children for God. The first without the second is lawlessness; the second without the first is legality; to take both together is sound, practical Christianity. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">It is the privilege of all Christin parents to count upon God for their children with all confidence.</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: black;"> There is, however, in the government of God, an inseparable link connecting this privilege with solemn responsibility as to training.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: black;">For parents to speak of counting on God for the salvation of their children and for the moral </span><span style="color: black;">integrity of their future career in this world while the duty of training is neglected is simply a miserable delusion.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">We press this solemnly upon all Christian parents, especially upon those who have just entered upon the relationship. There is great danger of shirking our duty to our children, shifting it over upon others, or neglecting it altogether. We do not like the trouble of it; we shrink from the constant worry. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> But we shall find that the trouble, worry, sorrow, and heart-scalding arising from the neglect of our duty will be a thousand times worse than all that can be involved in the discharge of it.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">To every true lover of God there is a deep delight in treading the path of duty.</span><span style="color: black;">Every step taken in that path we can always count upon the infinite resources that we have in God when we are keeping His commandments. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> We have simply to take ourselves, morning by morning, hour by hour, to our Father's exhaustless treasury, and there get all we want in the way of grace and wisdom and moral power, to enable us to discharge aright the holy functions of our responsibilities as Christian parents. <strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">C. H Mackintosh </span></strong> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9312</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2d0ce1;">My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness; and my mouth shall praise Thee with joyful lips. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2d0ce1;">Psalm 63:5</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2d0ce1;">For He satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness. Psalm 107:9</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2d0ce1;">I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with Thy likeness. Psalm 17:15</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Thou satisfying Portion, the object for our hearts, </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">To fill with joy and gladness, and peace, which faith imparts.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In Thee alone is comfort, in Thee is perfect rest,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Thy love soothes every sorrow, and calms the troubled breast.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The longing soul is nurtured, by Thy great grace supplied,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And with Thy love and goodness, is fully satisfied.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Beside the quiet waters, Thy hungry sheep are led,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">With marrow and with fatness, are satisfied and fed.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">With joyful lips we praise Thee, for all Thy mercies shown,</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">For all Thy loving kindness to us, made daily known.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And when we reach the Glory, and Thy blest face we see, </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Awaking with Thy likeness, how <strong>satisfied</strong> we’ll be! <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Selected</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0808f5;">“The Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul.” — Isaiah 58:11</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #0808f5;">N.J.Hiebert - 9313</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">And he (the priest) shall take of it his handful, of the flour of the meat offering, and of the oil thereof, and all the frankincense which is upon the meat-offering, and shall burn it upon the altar for a sweet savour, even the memorial of it, unto the Lord. (Leviticus 6:15)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Take note particularly that all the frankincense was consumed on the altar.</span><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span><span style="color: black;"> And why was this?</span><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;"> Because that frankincense typified the fragrance of Christ’s manhood as enjoyed exclusively by God Himself.</span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong><span style="color: black;"> </span></strong><span style="color: black;">Every</span><strong><span style="color: black;"> </span></strong><span style="color: black;">thought, every look, every word, every movement, every act of the man Christ Jesus emitted a fragrance which went up directly to the throne of God and refreshed the heart of Him who sat thereon.</span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;">This is a spring of joy and comfort to the spiritual. When we think of how the blessed Lord was depreciated in this world, of how the rarest and most exquisite touches of His perfect humanity were lost upon a rude and unbelieving world, and of how little even His own disciples understood or valued Him—what a comfort it is to remember that He was perfectly understood and appreciated by the Father in heaven.</span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The primary application of the incense is </span><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;">unquestionably</span></span><span style="color: black;"> to Christ; however, it has a secondary application to the believer. True Christianity is the outflow of the character of Christ in the believer’s practical ways—this is most precious to God. There is not an expression of the life of Christ in the believer, of what He is, of the smallest manifestation of His grace that we exhibit, that does not ascend, directly, as the odour of sweet incense to the throne of God.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">May God lead us into the experimental understanding of these things and into producing a brighter and fuller manifestation of Christ to the glory of God the Father.</span><strong><span style="color: blue;"></span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">C. H. Macintosh </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9314</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2e0aed;">When thou goest, thy steps shall not be straightened</span></strong> (the way shall open up before thee). <strong><span style="color: #3119f1;">Proverbs 4:12</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3119f1;"> And the Lord shall guide thee continually. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3119f1;">(Isaiah 58:11)</span></strong><span style="color: #3119f1;"> </span>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">A father and his son were camped in a wooded area a little ways from the nearest village. The father had a letter which needed mailing and asked his son to take it to the post office in the village. The father took his son to the edge of camp and showed him the trail which led to the village. “But father,“ said the little boy, “I don’t see how that path will ever reach town.”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The father took his hand in his and pointed explaining, “See down the trail to that big tree where the trail seems to come to an end?” “Oh, yes, I see that the path goes that far; but the village is not there!” “Well, when you get to that big tree, you will see further on around the bend and down the trail.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Just go to the tree and then follow the trail until you come to the next corner, then look ahead and follow it some more until you see some houses. When you come to the houses, you will see the post office. There you can mail my letter!”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>I know not when or where I go from this familiar scene;</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>But He is here and He is there, and all the way between.</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>And when I pass from all I know, to that dim, vast unknown,</strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong>Though late I stay or soon I go, I shall not go alone. </strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The love of God quite as often withholds the view of the entire distance of the winding path through life. He reveals it to us step by step and from corner to corner. Hence it is necessary to trust Him to lead, for He can see around the bend in the road. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">He knows what lies ahead, and whether we can cope with the situation now or later. He consults our wants, not our wishes, like a wise and loving Father. His corners are not the end of the way. Corners discipline faith, teach us patience to walk step by step, and fit us for blessing. Because our vision is limited, it causes us to continually seek His guidance. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">(Selected) </span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9315</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2e0aed;">And Joseph was the governor over the land,</span></strong> <strong><span style="color: #2e10f3;">and he it was that sold to all the people of the land: and Joseph’s brethren came, and bowed down themselves …and Joseph saw his brethren, and he knew them…but they knew not him. Genesis 42:6-8</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The brethren protest that it is their need that brings them into Egypt.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #130ef5;">“We have come to buy food” (v.10).</span></strong> They have indeed, come to the right person, but they have come with a wrong plan and with a wrong plea. Their plan is to buy, and their plea <strong><span style="color: #2e0ff7;">“we are true men” (v.11)</span></strong>. As yet they know neither the love of Joseph’s heart, nor the evil of their own hearts. They must learn that Joseph is too rich to sell to his own, and that they have nothing in themselves to plead. Their money shall not buy corn, and of merit they have none whereby to claim it. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">They must learn that while Joseph is ready to bestow every blessing, he is one upon whom they have forfeited every claim. Love is a giver when worthlessness has nothing to plead. The love of Joseph’s heart will shut out all mere barter, and the evil of their hearts exclude all plea of merit. If they think they are true men then Joseph will put them to the test. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Moreover Joseph’s brethren must learn that all their blessing depends upon the man of whom they say <strong><span style="color: #2308f7;">“one is nought” (v.13)</span></strong>.They say, as it were, “We have not seen him for twenty years; he has entirely passed out of our lives, as far as we are concerned <strong><span style="color: #200bf3;">“he is not.” (v.13)</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">”So, too, in a day to come the Jew will have to learn that all their blessing depends upon One that they have set at nought.” </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #160cec;">“This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner. Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” (Acts 4:11,12)</span></strong>. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Joseph - Hamilton Smith </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9316</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">WHERE NO ANXIETY EXISTS</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2e0aed;">Under His wings shall thou trust. Psalm 91:4</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">When the little eaglets, that have not yet a feather to fly with, are under the great wings of the parent eagle, how safe they are! Who would dare touch them? If a bold climber put his hand into the nest, then those powerful wings would beat him in a minute from his hold, and he would fall down the rocks and be dashed to pieces.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">So safe shall you be under His wings, nothing shall by any means hurt you there. When the wild snow storms rage around the eyrie (nest) that is death to an unprotected sleeper, how warm the little eaglets are kept! Not an arrow of the keen blast reaches them, poor little featherless things, not a snowflake touches them.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">So warm shall you be kept under His wings when any cold and dark day of trouble comes, or even any sudden little blast of unkindness or loneliness. </span><strong><span style="color: #530edc;">“Under His wings shalt thou </span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: #530edc;">trust</span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: #530edc;">!</span></strong><span style="color: black;">” Not shalt thou </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;">see</span></strong></em><span style="color: black;">!”</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> If one of the eaglets wanted to see for itself what was going on, and thought it could take care of itself for a little while, and hopped from under the shadow of the wings, it would be neither safe nor warm. The sharp wind would chill it, and the cruel hand might seize it then.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">So you are to </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;">trust</span></strong></em><span style="color: black;">, rest quietly and peacefully under His wings; stay there, not be peeping out and wondering whether God really is taking care of you! You may be always safe and happy there. Safe, for </span><strong><span style="color: #3c1af7;">“in the shadow of Thy wings will I make my refuge.” (Psalm 57:1)</span></strong><span style="color: black;">. Happy, for </span><strong><span style="color: #531ae1;">“in the shadow of Thy wings will I rejoice.” (Psalms 63:7)</span></strong><span style="color: black;">. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Upon Thy word I rest, so strong, so sure; so full of comfort blest, so sweet, so pure.</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">The word that changeth not, that faileth never! My King! I rest upon Thy Word forever.</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Opened Treasures - Frances Ridley Havergal </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9317</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 28</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #4a0fed;">Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that beliveth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live. John 11:25 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Lightly tread, the day is breaking, dwell not on your sorrows now;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Soon shall cloudless morn awaking chase the sadness from your brow:</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">He is coming—heart and knee to Jesus bow!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Did not Mary lay her sorrow low before the Master’s feet?</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Sore her wound, and dark her morrow, bereft on earth of love so sweet:</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">With her burden, thus she came her Lord to meet.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">‘Tis the great I AM who standeth now beside that rocky tomb;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">‘Tis His voice that loud commandeth Lazarus from the dead to come! </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Thus His glory shines above the deepest gloom.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Precious Saviour! through Thy dying, vanquished are the foe’s dark powers;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And, Thy name still magnifying, grace brings forth exhaustless stores:</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">At Thy coming, life and incorruption ours.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Eyes to see Thee, ears to hear Thee, voices tuned to heavenly lays;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Thus to dwell forever near Thee, learning all Thy wondrous ways;</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">To Thee rendering, adoration, worship, praise!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Author Unknown</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9318</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2511f5;">My voice shalt Thou hear in the morning, O Lord; in the morning will I direct my prayer unto Thee, and will look up. Psalm 5:3 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Experience shows that the best time for prayer is the early morning. The day-break blessing is the day-long gain. George Müller, who knew more about prayer than </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">most, says: “The morning is the gate of the day and should be well guarded by prayer. It is one end of the thread on which the days’s actions are strung, and should be well knotted with devotion.”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">“If we felt more the majesty of life, we should be more careful of its mornings. He who rushes from his bed to his business and waits not to worship is as unwise as he who dashes into battle without armour.”</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> “Be it ours to bath in the softly flowing river of communion with God, before the heat of the wilderness and the burden of the way begin to oppress.” </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Henry Durbanville - The Best Is Yet To Be</span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9319</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 30</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2e16ed;">41 And Jesus sat over against the treasury, and beheld how the people cast money into the treasury: and many that were rich cast in much. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2e16ed;">42 And there came a certain poor widow, and she threw in two mites, which make a farthing. 43 And He called unto Him His disciples, and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That this poor widow hath cast more in, than all they which have cast into the treasury: </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2e16ed;">44 for all they did cast in of their abundance; but she of her want did cast in all that she had, even all her living. Mark 12:41-44</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">What a contrast this charming sketch supplies to the picture of the Pharisees, which Jesus has just drawn! </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> In the eyes of the world the service of the poor widow was meager and worthless, and the gifts of the hypocrites were costly and great; but in the eyes of the Lord these offerings were comparatively worthless and she had given more than they all.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">As a matter of fact she had given but two small coins, worth less than half a cent; but they were all she had and she gave them both.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">With this scene in mind we should be careful not to call our offerings "mites," unless they are all that we possess; we should be encouraged, however, to know that our Lord looks upon the heart and estimates the gift by the motive and the love and the sacrifice involved; above all, <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">we should be reminded that we can best measure our offerings not by what we give but by how much we keep</span>. The influence of this woman is still moving multitudes toward the treasury of the Lord. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Gospel of Mark - Charles R. Erdman</span></strong></em> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9320</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 31</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #4a0fed;">He, (Jesus) bearing His cross, went forth into a place called the place of a skull…where they crucified Him. John 19:17-18 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Matthew’s Gospel describes the Lord twice as One who</span><strong><span style="color: #2218f7;"> “went out” (Matt.13:1;24:1)</span></strong><span style="color: black;">.</span><span style="color: black;"> These instances were followed by His going out, carrying His own cross <strong><span style="color: #171bf1;">(Jn 19:17)</span></strong>. Solemn event! On that cross, the sinless One was going to be made sin for us </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"><strong><span style="color: #2511f1;">(2 Cor. 5:21)</span></strong> during the three hours of darkness. The Lord went out Himself: although they <em><strong>took</strong></em> Him, He was <em><strong>in charge,</strong></em> as seen in His going out. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Before this world will be destroyed in the coming ultimate judgment <strong><span style="color: #1a05ef;">( 2 Pet 3)</span></strong>, the sinless Sin-bearer took the judgment on Himself, vicariously <span style="font-size: 11px;">(as a substitute)</span>, for all who would put their trust in Him. For those who reject Him, a terrible judgment remains. His going out was the consequence of the religious, political, and cultural world rejecting Him. Yet, in unfathomable grace, He took the consequences of this rejection upon Himself</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">-- that is, for those who would believe in Him.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The cross is the most awful form of execution: the Lord was willing to take that place in order to save us. In that path of rejection, He indicated and paved the way of salvation; He paid the needed price and through it all glorified God. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Alfred E. Boute</span></strong></em><span style="font-size: 13px;">r</span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Alone He bore the cross, alone its grief sustained;</span></strong></em></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">His was the shame and loss, and He the victory gained;</span></strong></em></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">The mighty work was all His own, </span></strong></em></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Though we shall share His glorious throne.</span></strong></em> <strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Joseph Swain</span></strong> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">N.J. Hiebert - 9321</span></span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Be careful (anxious) 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. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Philippians 4:6-7</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">THINGS THAT MAKE PEOPLE ANXIOUS</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;">Ill health</span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: black;"> </span></strong><span style="color: black;">is often another fruitful source of care.</span><span style="color: black;">Your very success in life may depend upon good health, and that seems denied. Or you may have others depending upon you, and you are feeling less and less equal to the strain.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Perhaps few things are more trying than to feel unequal, physically and mentally, to the demands of your calling, and yet to be obliged to face them day after day.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Under such circumstances everything is apt to become draped in black. All we look at is in varying shade of India ink. Heavens blue is forgotten, and cold grey mist envelopes everything. The thistle-down, lighter than a feather seems to our distorted imagination a ton weight.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">All this may be purely physical; and there is the physical side of getting free from care as well as the spiritual, for man is body as well as soul and spirit. To pay due attention to each is one of the great problems of life. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> But the very remembrance that your feeling of depression has no real cause in circumstances, but only in some transitory condition of your body, will enable you to arise and shake yourself free from it. There is one text too, which has often been like a sheet-anchor under pressure of this kind.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"><strong><span style="color: #200af6;">"God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation (trial) also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. 1 Corinthians 10:13</span></strong> <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Angels in White - Russell Elliott </span></strong></em></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9322</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2910eb;">When thine eye is single, thy whole body also is full of light. Luke 11:34</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">We all know how easily our poor heart persuades itself of the rightness of any step which it desires to take, and how the devil furnishes plausible arguments to convince us of its rightness. He comes with arguments which the moral condition of the soul causes us to regard as clear, forcible and satisfactory.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The very fact of our thinking of such a thing proves our unfitness to weigh, with a well-balanced mind and spiritually adjusted conscience, the solemn consequences of such a step. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">If the eye were single (that is, if we were governed by but one object, namely, the glory and honour of the Lord Jesus Christ), we should have no difficulty or perplexity about the matter.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> A racer whose eye is resting on the crown will not be troubled with any perplexity as to whether he ought to stop and tie a hundred-pound weight around his neck. Such a thought would never cross his mind. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Whenever I am in perplexity as to my path, I have reason to suspect that my eye is not single, for, assuredly, perplexity is not compatible with a body <strong><span style="color: #4d0bf1;">“full of light.”</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> We frequently go to pray for guidance in matters with which, if the eye were single and the will subject, we would have nothing whatever to do, and hence we should have no need to pray about them. <em><strong>To pray about anything concerning which the Word of God is plain marks the activity of a rebellious will</strong></em>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">As a writer has well remarked, “We sometimes seek God’s will, desiring to know how to act in circumstances <em><strong>in which it is not His will that we should be found at all;</strong></em> if conscience were in real healthful activity, its first effect would be to make us quit them. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> It is our will which sets us there, and we should like, nevertheless, to enjoy the consolation of God’s direction. Be assured that if we are near enough to God, we shall have no trouble to know His will.” <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Lord is Near </span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9323</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"><strong><span style="color: #200bef;">He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; He leadeth me beside the still waters. Psalm 23:2 </span></strong></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The real power to do great things for Christ must come from secluded places, where men commune with God. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> Let us remember, to range over the whole garden of Scripture and not to confine ourselves to a few particularly wealthy spots; for the green pastures are everywhere. By the anointed eye, Christ is as really beheld in the types of the pentateuch <span style="font-size: 13px;">(First five books of the O.T.)</span> as in the later portions of the inspired Word.<span style="font-size: 13px;"> </span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">He is <em><strong>enfolded</strong></em> in the Old Testament and <em><strong>unfolded</strong></em> in the New. <strong><span style="color: #0821f4;">“Search the Scriptures . . .” </span>said Jesus,<span style="color: #0821f4;"> “for they are they which testify of Me”. (John 5:39) </span></strong></span><strong><span style="color: #2410f1;">“Had ye believed Moses ye would have believed Me; for </span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: #2410f1;">he wrote of Me</span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: #2410f1;">.” (John 5:46)</span></strong>.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> And after His resurrection He joined the two disconsolate ones on their way to Emmaus, and, <strong><span style="color: #390af4;">“beginning at Moses and all the prophets, He expounded unto them in </span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: #390af4;">all</span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: #390af4;"> the Scriptures </span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: #390af4;">the things concerning Himself.</span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: #390af4;">” (Luke 24:27) </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Oh, what a Bible-reading have we here, not barren theory—musty, dry and drear—</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">But Christ, the “altogether lovely”, full in view. Himself the Preacher, text and sermon too</span></span></strong><span style="color: #390af4;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">.</span></span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And thus we learn that if our souls are to be kept healthy, vigorous, and strong; that if our work for God is to be of an enduring character; that if we are to combat successfully the principalities and powers which are arrayed against us and which are determined to resist every advance we attempt to make in the knowledge of God—we <em><strong>must</strong></em> read and study the Word of God. <strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Pearl of the Psalms - George Henderson</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9324</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 4</span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-27887602938628002652023-07-01T07:26:00.038-04:002023-07-29T07:56:50.950-04:00Gems from July 2023<p><strong style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"The words of the wise are as goads." </strong></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Ecclesiastes 12:11</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Pray."</strong></span> But how? <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Without ceasing."</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Rejoice."</strong></span> But when? <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Evermore."</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Give thanks."</strong></span> For what? <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"In Everything." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>The Christian in Complete Armour - William Gurnall</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9259</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump. Galatians 5:9 </strong></span><br /><br />Once there was a farmer who desired the use of a piece of ground that lay conveniently near his own, but the owner refused to sell. After much persuasion he was content to lease it. <br /><br />The farmer covenanted only to farm it for one crop. Now his bargain sealed, he planted his field with with acorns-- a crop that lasted not one year but <strong><em>three hundred!</em></strong> <br /><br />So Satan seeks to to get possession of our souls by asking us to permit some small sin to enter, some one wrong that seems of no great account. But when once he has entered and planted the seeds and beginnings of evil, he <em><strong>holds</strong></em> his ground, and sins and evils amazingly multiply. <br /><br />The dangerous thing about a <em><strong>little</strong></em> sin is that it won't stay little.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Each sin has its door of entrance. <br />Keep--that--door--closed!<br />Bolt it tight! <br />Just outside, the wild beast crouches<br />In the night. <br />Pin the bolt with a prayer, <br />God will fix it there.</span><span style="font-size: 16px;"> </span>-- Mountain Trailways for Youth</strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9260</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm. Then the presidents and princes sought to find occasion against Daniel concerning the kingdom; but they could find none occasion nor fault; for as much as he was faithful, neither was there any error or fault found in him. Daniel 6:3,4 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Daniel is coming under fire. His fame in the workplace had aroused some enemies, and they hatched a political plot to bring Daniel down. They engineered a situation whereby the king was made to sign a document which would place Daniel in an impossible situation, without the king being aware of what was being done either to him or to Daniel.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">After the document was signed, Daniel was identified to the king as a non-conformist, as one who persisted in holding views and engaging in practices that were contrary to what the king had legislated. The king realized that he himself had been trapped and that he could do nothing about it, but to cast Daniel upon the mercy of God in the den of lions. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The Christian also runs the gauntlet of political intrigue in the business environment. Because the techniques and manoeuvrings employed by others are not available to him, he appears vulnerable. Let us never be tempted to retaliate in kind in such situations. Let us cast ourselves upon the mercy of God, and He will show that He is well able to take care of us in situations that seem impossible. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Daniel - William Burnett </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9261</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the <u>savour of His </u></span></span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: blue;"><u>knowledge by us in every place</u>. <br />2 Corinthians 2:14 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The supreme witness for God in this world is the one whose life is Christlike in spirit and conduct. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"To be like Christ, compared with that, every ambition is folly, and all lower achievement vain." </em><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em style="font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-size: 12px;">(H. Drummond)</span></em></strong><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; </em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Just as glass may be considered as brilliantly beautiful until we see the fascinating radiance of a diamond, so, when we behold our all-glorious Lord, we are ready to cry out with one of old: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He is altogether lovely". (Song of Solomon 5:16)</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>No mortal can with Him compare, among the sons of men; <br />Fairer is He than all the fair, that fill the heavenly train</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Long years ago the first Protestant missionary to Japan was once brought into touch with members of the royal house of that country. During his furlough in England, he was visited in his rooms one day by some members of the Emperor's family who were touring Europe. They chatted for perhaps an hour and then left. Later in the day another group of Japanese--officials--called. "Oh!" one of them exclaimed, "You have been entertaining royalty here today!" <br /><br />"What makes you think so?" the missionary queried. Why, there is is a perfume manufactured in our country for the exclusive use of royalty. No one else is allowed to use it, and its fragrant odour is in evidence is in evidence in this apartment, so that we know you have had royal visitors to-day!" <br /><br />Our King has promised not only to visit us, but also to <em><strong>abide</strong></em> with us <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(John 14:23)</strong></span>. Is the fragrance of His presence diffused from us day by day? If so, we shall be following in the footsteps of Paul who said: <span style="color: blue;"><em><strong>"For to me to live is Christ." (Philippians 1:21)</strong></em></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Winsome Christianity - Henry Durbanville </strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9262</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16</strong></span><br /><br />It is strange that any one should question the universality of the offer of mercy with a verse like that in the Bible. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Whosoever believeth hath"</strong></span>--any one in any circumstances or conditions who puts his trust in the Lord Jesus Christ enters into the present possession of eternal life. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Whosoever shall confess that Jesus is the Son of God, God dwelleth in him, and he in God." (1 John 4:15)</strong></span> Mark, it is <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"whosoever shall confess," </strong></span>not merely whosoever shall profess. <br /><br />There are a great many people who profess that they believe Jesus is the Son of God but they have never trusted Him as such. <u>You cannot confess Him as Son of God until He is your own Saviour</u>. You confess the One in whom you have trusted. <span style="color: blue;"><strong> "If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. (Romans 10:9)</strong></span>. <br /><br />But on the other hand, let us not forget that there is another very solemn <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Whosoever,"</strong></span> and that is also found in the writings of John, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire" (Revelation 20:15)</strong></span> .Think of the solemnity of that declaration. It is the same word <span style="color: blue;"><em><strong>whosoever</strong></em></span>. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Whosoever believeth...hath everlasting life,"</strong></span> therefore the believer's name is inscribed in the book of life. <br /><br />Whosoever refuses to believe, whosoever will not put his trust in the Lord Jesus Christ, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"whosoever"</strong></span> is <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"not found written in the book of life,"</strong></span> must be banished eternally from the presence of God. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">H. A. Ironside</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9263</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>I, even I, am the Lord; and beside Me there is no Saviour. Isaiah 43:11 </strong></span><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>I, even I, am He that blotteth out thy transgressions for Mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins. Isaiah 43:25 <br /><br />I, even I, have spoken; yea, I have called him. </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Isaiah 48:15</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em>You may search the depths of the deepest sea:<br />My sins are remembered no more;<br />At the judgment throne of eternity,<br />My sins are remembered no more.<br /><br />They're blotted, forgiven, buried and gone;<br />My sins are remembered no more;<br />They're atoned and covered by God's dear Son:<br />My sins are remembered no more</em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Christian's Daily </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9264</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love Him because He first loved us. 1 John 4:18,19 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It is blessed to dwell on that divinely inspired word </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"perfect".</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> The love that rests upon us is perfect love. Where known, it casts out fear. It takes away all that which is torment to the soul. It is the love of God which has reached us in Jesus. Everything divine is perfect. When Christ comes out on God's behalf in judgment in the coming day, it is perfect and unsparing judgment. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>He who drank the bitter cup of wrath to its dregs in divine love on Calvary's cross is there seen in perfect and inflexible righteousness treading the winepress of the wrath of Almighty God</u>. <u>We, thank God, learn that spotless righteousness not from the way it acts towards us, but from the way it acted towards Christ on Calvary, when He was made sin for us</u>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Is there anything which causes fear or torment in your soul, Christian? God's love is perfect love, which would remove it all because He loves you, and which can remove it all because it is His love. Maybe something in your past history troubles you; because His love is perfect it reaches even to the removal of that from your heart. Go and tell Jesus. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He is the blessed vessel of God's grace, able to speak a word in secret to him that is weary, the divinely given answer to every need of man's heart. <br /><br />It may be some great sorrow in the present that overwhelms; as to this, there is a simple word about John's disciple which is helpful. When all was dark with them, the one they followed having not only been imprisoned but finally beheaded, they took up his body and buried it, and <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"went and told Jesus." (Matthew 14:12).</strong></span> There all is perfect. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">H. D. Clarke</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">.<br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9625</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>I will put my trust in Him. Hebrews 2:13 </strong></span><br /><br />What a moment it must have been when the Lord stilled the wind on the Sea of Galilee! It must have been wondrous and beautiful to witness it; as it would be now, had we but hearts sensible of the glories of Christ, to think of it.<br /><br />People may talk of the necessary force of principles, of the laws of nature, and the course of things; but surely it is <u>the first law of nature to obey its Creator</u>. <br /><br />And here, in the twinkling of an eye, the Sea of Galilee felt the presence, and answered the word, of Him who at His pleasure transfigures the course of nature, or by a touch unhinges it all. <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full.<br /><br />And He was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake Him, and say unto Him, Master, carest Thou not that we perish?<br /><br />And He arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, <u>Peace be still</u>. And the wind ceased, and <u>there was a great calm.</u>" <br /><br /> "And He said unto them, Why are ye so fearful? how is it that ye have no faith?" <br /><br />And they feared exceedingly, and said one to another, What manner of man is this, that even the wind and the sea obey Him? (Mark 4:37-41)</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Son of God - J.G. Bellett </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9266</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Take my yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. Matthew 11:29</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><u>In scripture, the yoke is a symbol of submission</u> to the will of another. From the beginning to the end of His wonderful path through this world, the Lord, as the perfect Man, was here for the will of the Father. He could say, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For I came down from heaven, not to do Mine own will, but the will of Him that sent Me" (John 6:38)</strong></span>. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For I do always those things that please Him" (John 8:29)</strong></span>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">However painful our circumstances may be, we are exhorted to take the Lord's yoke by quietly submitting to what the Father allows. Moreover, the Lord says, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart."</strong></span> He was not only meek and lowly in manner, but He was meek and lowly in heart. The right manner for men to see on the outside is comparatively easy to put on, but the right condition of heart that the Lord alone can see is only the result of turning to Him in prayer and submitting to the Father's will. We are not naturally meek or lowly.<br /><br />Instead, we prefer to assert ourselves and seek self-importance. To correct these natural tendencies of the flesh, the Lord engages us with Himself and says, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Learn of Me."</strong></span> As we gaze upon Him and admire the lovely qualities we see in our Lord, we become changed into His image. We become like the One we admire. <br /><br />The fact that often we are so little like Him tells only too plainly how little we have Him before our souls--how little we learn of Him. By taking His yoke and learning of Him, we shall find rest for our souls. Dwelling upon our circumstances will bring no rest. Instead, learn to submit to what the Father allows and catch the beautiful spirit of Christ in all His meekness and lowliness. Then we shall enjoy the rest of spirit that was ever the portion of the Lord in a world of unrest. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Hamilton Smith</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9267</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me. Philippians 4:13 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">A child in turning over the leaves of an old gardening book, read that if an apple tree did not bear fruit, a good plan was to drive a few iron nails into it. She told her father of this, and he tried it with a useless tree in his garden. Next year that tree bore prolific fruit. Seeing this tree, he, turned to His Lord and said---</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">- "Lord, is that the secret of my bareness? </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">- Is that why I so often have failed in the day of testing? </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">- Is that why temptation has so easily conquered me?</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">- Is that why I have become the victim of those things which I know do not belong to the new life in Christ? </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">- Is that why so often I have failed in bearing fruit unto Thy glory? </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">- Is it because I have raised a protest against the nails being driven into this flesh-life, this wretched </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>ego</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, this cursed self? </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">- Have I said, "No, Lord, I do not give consent to that crucifixion"? </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">- And is this the result of all this-- just barrenness?"</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The Lord make us willing for the nails to be driven in, "for only as we are willing to die, can we bear fruit, and live the resurrection life of the Lord Jesus Christ." A Christian means <strong>C H R I ST</strong> and the remaining letters <strong>I A N</strong> <strong>'I AM NOTHING</strong>. Only as this is really true do we discover what Paul calls the glory of the cross. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">But do not let that mean to anyone, "I am nothing, so it is no use expecting <em style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>me</strong></em> to conquer in the fight." That is self making weak excuses for Self. Take the words you know so well and count on their truth--<u>I am nothing, but I am Christ's</u>; therefore, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I can do all things [this thing that I feel impossible] through Christ which strengtheneth me."</strong></span> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>THOU GIVEST...THEY GATHER - Amy Carmichael </strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9268</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>What Will You Answer?</strong><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad". 2 Corinthians 5:10. </strong></span><br /><br />Saved souls need not fear or be troubled by this precious verse. It will be no place of eternal judgment for sin to any who have expressed <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ" (Acts 20:21)</strong></span> for Christ has forever borne and put away the sins of each believer. This 'judgment seat' will be a place to 'receive' God's perfect reward for anything done in the life of a redeemed child, that pleased and honoured Him. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">In view of this, the following simple thoughts expressed by a dear believer now home with the Lord are well worth considering. You won't be asked what kind of car you drove, but you will be asked how many people who didn't have transportation you drove to their destination. You won't be asked the square footage of your house or the brand name of your furniture, but you will be asked how many people you welcomed into the hospitality and comfort of your home. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">You won't be asked about the clothes you wore or how many outfits you had in your closet, but you will be asked how many destitute you helped clothe. You won't be asked what your highest salary was, but you will be asked if you compromised your Christian character or undermined others in order to obtain it. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">You won't be asked what your job title was, but you will be asked if you performed your job to the best of your ability--if you did it <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"to the glory of God" (1 Corinthians 10:31)</strong></span>, if you did it <span style="color: blue;">"<strong>in the name of the Lord Jesus" (Colossians 3:17),</strong></span> and if you did <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men" (Colossians 3:23)</strong></span>. You won't be asked how many friends you had, but you will be asked how many people there were to whom you were a friend <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Luke 11:5-8)</strong></span>. <br /><br />You won't be asked what kind of neighbourhood you lived in, but you will be asked how you treated your neighbours and what kind of testimony to the Lord Jesus Christ you gave to them.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Only one life, twill soon be past, only what's done for Christ will last</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">T.C.S. - Doug Nicolet - October 2007</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9269</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>N0 SMELL OF FIRE</strong><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Nor the smell of fire had passed on them. Daniel 3:27 </strong></span><br /><br />When the three Hebrews came out of the fiery furnace, they had lost only the cords that bound them. When we come through God's testing properly, all we lose are the shackles that tied us up earlier--we have been set free! <br /><br />And the smell of the smoke does not linger; there is no odour from the suffering. Instead, we have been purified and the perfume of a new holiness is soon detected. <br /><br />There is no lamenting over our losses or boasting of our survival--only the sweetness of a chastened spirit, the glow of gold refined after dross has been removed. Have you emerged from the furnace with no scorch, no shackles, no smell of the smoke? </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong>ALL THE DAYS - VANCE HAVNER </strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 14px;">God moves in a mysterious way,<br />His wonders to perform;<br />He plants His footsteps in the sea <br />And rides upon the storm. <br /><br />His purposes will ripen fast,<br />Unfolding every hour;<br />The bud may have a bitter taste,<br />But sweet will be the flower</span></em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>.</em></strong> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">William Cowper 1779</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9270</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Again I say unto you, that if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of My Father which is in heaven. Matthew 18:19</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Nothing can touch the truth or weaken the force of this verse. It stands in all its blessed fullness, freeness, and preciousness before the eye of faith; its terms are clear and unmistakable. There is our warrant for coming together to pray for anything that may be laid on our hearts. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Do we mourn over the coldness, barrenness, and death around us? Are we discouraged by the little apparent fruit from the preaching of the gospel--the lack of power in the preaching itself, and the total absence of practical result? </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Are our souls cast down by the barrenness, dullness, heaviness, and low tone of all our reunions, whether at the table of the Lord, before the mercy-seat, or around the fountain of Holy Scripture? <br /><br />What are we to do? Fold our arms in cold indifference? Give up in despair? Or give vent to complaining, murmuring, fretfulness, or irritation? God forbid! What then? Come together <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"with one accord in one place"</strong></span>; get down on our faces before our God, and pour out our hearts as the heart of one man, pleading </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Matthew 18:19</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">The simple fact is there is no excuse whatever--so long as Christ is at the right hand of God, so long as God the Holy Spirit is in our midst and in our hearts--so long as we have the Word of God in out hands--so long--as <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Matthew 18:19</strong></span> shines before our eyes--there is, we repeat, no excuse for barrenness, deadness, coldness, and indifference--no excuse for heavy and unprofitable meetings--no excuse whatever for lack of freshness in our reunions or of fruitfulness in our service. Let us wait on God in holy concord, and the blessing is sure to come.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">C. H. Mackintosh</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9271</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">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 has afflicted Me in the day of His fierce anger. Lamentations 1:12</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">This is what death meant to the Lord Jesus Christ: made a curse; visited with the wrath of God against sin; in darkness, forsaken, and alone, He died for us. As another has said, “Utterly solitary He died that none of us might have to face death alone.” Or as we often sing, </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">“Crowned with thorns upon the tree; </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Silent in thine agony;</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Dying crushed beneath the load, </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Of the wrath and curse of God.”</span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">This was the heart-breaking anguish of His death. God left Him alone in the hour of His deepest suffering. Never in his day had David seen the righteous forsaken. The sorrowing One of Psalm 22 pleaded, </span><strong><span style="color: blue;">“Our fathers trusted in Thee: they trusted and Thou didst deliver them. They cried unto Thee and were delivered: they trusted in Thee and were not confounded. But I am a worm and no man; a reproach of men and despised of the people.” (Psalm 22:4-6)</span></strong><span style="color: black;">. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The One who was the most faithful and the most beloved was the first to know the bitter sorrow of being left alone by God in the hour of His deep distress. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Plant of Renown - Leonard Sheldrake </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: large;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9272</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: blue; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>It is better, if the will of God be so, that ye suffer for WELL DOING, than for evil doing. 1 Peter 3:17</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: blue; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: blue; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>So is the will of God, that with WELL DOING ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men. </strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: blue; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>1 Peter 2:15</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: blue; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: blue; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Let us not be weary in WELL DOING: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. Galatians 6:9</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: blue; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: blue; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">In Thy presence we are happy;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: blue; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">In Thy presence we’re secure;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: blue; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">In Thy presence all afflictions </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: blue; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">We can easily endure;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: blue; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">In Thy presence we can conquer,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: blue; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">We can suffer, we can die;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: blue; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Wandering from Thee we are feeble;</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: blue; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Let Thy love, Lord keep us nigh. </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> W. Williams </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: blue; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: blue; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> N.J.Hiebert - 9273</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2116e7;">But He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all. Isaiah 53:5,6</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">This brings us to the Cross, where the Lord endured vicariously the judgment that our sins deserved in order that through His stripes we might be healed. There on the tree He was the great sin offering and the peace offering, too— there He <strong><span style="color: #3f11f5;">“made peace through the blood of His cross” (Colossians 1:20)</span></strong>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Surely here is substitutionary atonement.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> Sometimes people object to this on the ground that the word “substitution” is not found in the Bible, but when one is in the place of another, when one is taking what another deserves, that is substitution, and here we have the plain, definite statement, <strong><span style="color: #1816f1;">“He hath borne our griefs . . . He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities.”</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The chastisement whereby our peace was made fell upon Him with the result:</span><strong><span style="color: #1816f1;"> “with His stripes we are healed” Isaiah 53:4,5) </span><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">H. A. Ironside - Isaiah - </span></span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert -9274</span></strong></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Matthew 7:20 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">A striking example of good and bad fruit is seen in the following incident. An uncle and nephew were travelling with a large sum of money over a wild and very thinly populated prairie land of America. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> Nightfall came on, and the travellers had to look for a shelter.</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: black;"> They discovered a log cabin, and knocked at the door.</span><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: black;"> An old man with long shaggy beard and unkept appearance answered their call.</span><span style="color: black;">They asked for accommodation, which was willingly accorded. They were shown into a room where they could sleep on the floor.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> It was arranged that the uncle should lie down to rest, and the nephew should sit up with loaded revolver to make sure that their treasure was safe. Presently the uncle saw the nephew preparing to sleep. He reminded him of the vigil he had promised to keep. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The nephew replied, “There is no need to sit up with loaded revolver. We are perfectly safe here. I looked through the key hole to see what the old man was doing. I saw him take a Bible down from the shelf, and read a chapter to his wife. I then heard him pray for the blessing of God to rest on the travellers under his roof.” </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Why I Believe The Bible - A. J. Pollock </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9275</span></em></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">FIRE!!! </span><span style="color: blue;">For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved. (John 3:16,17) </span><span style="color: black;"> </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">If you have seen the recent images of the widespread forest fires raging largely uncontrolled in Northern Quebec and Ontario, your first reaction has probably been: I would not want to be anywhere near those fires!” And what about the poor people who actually live in the paths of those steadily advancing fires? They were being warned to leave their homes and their belongings in order to escape the fire and be evacuated to safer areas. They would have been very foolish to refuse that way of escape. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">In the Bible, God speaks of a </span><em><span style="color: black;">lake of fire burning with brimstone</span><strong><span style="color: black;"> </span><span style="color: blue;">(Revelation 19:20)</span><span style="color: black;">, </span></strong><span style="color: black;">and describes it as everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels </span><strong><span style="color: #0000fd;">(Matthew 25:41)</span></strong></em><strong><span style="color: black;">. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> Do not be deceived by the lies of Satan, the devil, as he tries to make you believe that: </span><em><span style="color: black;">“There is no God”</span></em><span style="color: black;">, or that </span><em><span style="color: black;">“There is no such thing as Heaven or Hell”</span></em><span style="color: black;">, or </span><em><span style="color: black;">“There is no such thing as sin”</span></em><span style="color: black;"> and </span><em><span style="color: black;">“The Bible is just a myth”</span></em><span style="color: black;">. Satan knows that God will eventually have him thrown into that lake of fire to be tormented there forever! And Satan wants you to end up there with him. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">That lake of fire is God’s punishment for sin. You and I, and Satan himself, deserve that punishment for all the sins we have committed. But God, in His great love and mercy toward you and me, has provided a way of escape from that punishment.</span><strong><span style="color: black;"> </span></strong><em><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> </span></span><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Michael Payette - Vision 2020 Message </span></span></strong></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9276</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">He that believeth on Him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. (John 3:18)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> Yes, Jesus, God’s own Son, who could not sin and never did, suffered all the punishment of God for sin, on Himself, in three hours on the cross. He died and shed His blood, then He was raised back to life, and went back to Heaven.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> Jesus did all that so that you and I, by simply believing in Jesus as our Saviour and Lord, could have our sins forgiven, and live forever with Jesus in Heaven.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Remember, God prepared that lake of fire for Satan, not for you. God does not want you to go there. He wants you to be saved from that punishment. But if you refuse God’s way of escape, that lake of fire will be where you end up.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> If you read the verses above in bold type, you will notice that one is not condemned for being a sinner but for not having believed on the name of the Son of God! Today, right now, </span><strong><span style="color: blue;">“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and Thou shalt be saved.” (Acts 16:31) </span></strong><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Vision 2020 in 2023</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9277</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #4c0ef5;">But joy cometh in the morning. Psalm 30:5</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Do you want comfort? Nothing can give it so much as the thought of Christ’s coming. There may be sorrow in the night, but joy enough—fulness of joy—in that morning when we shall see Him as He is: <em>fulness of joy</em> in being <em>like Him and with Him for evermore.</em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It is very blessed to see the different thoughts the mind of Christ has, in different epistles, in connection with His coming. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>First</strong>, in <em><strong><span style="color: #1e07f3;">(Ephesians, 5:27)</span></strong></em> He presents to Himself a glorious church, without spot or wrinkle, as the bride. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Second</strong>, in <em><strong><span style="color: #3b05f5;">(Philippians 3:21)</span></strong></em>, poor things groaning in vile bodies—He will work in them, and change the body of humiliation into a glorious body. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>Third</strong>, in <em><strong><span style="color: #1e0ef3;">(Colossians 3:3)</span></strong></em>, life hid in Him, to be manifested with Him in glory. In a little while, He who is your life shall come forth, and you with Him. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> <strong>Fourth</strong>, in <em><strong><span style="color: #1b09f8;">(1 John 3)</span></strong></em>., the relationship, formed by Christ, of sons to the Father, and He will treat them as sons, they shall behold Him and be like Him, He will show Himself to them as He is. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Gleanings From The Teaching of G. V. Wigram</span></strong></em>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9278</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #122eee;">And one of them smote the servant of the high priest, and cut off his right ear. And Jesus answered and said, Suffer ye thus far. And He touched his ear, and healed him. (Luke 22:50,51).</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #122eee;">Then the band and the captain and officers of the Jews took Jesus, and bound Him. (John 18:12)</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 12px;">THE LAST THING THE LORD JESUS DID BEFORE HIS HANDS WERE BOUND WAS TO HEAL.</span></strong><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Have you ever asked yourself, if I knew this was the last thing I should do, what would I do? I have never found the answer to that question.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> There are so very, very many things that we would want to do for those whom we love, that I do not think we are likely to be able to find the chief one of all these. So the best thing is just to go on simply, doing each thing as it comes as well as we can. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Our Lord Jesus spent much time in healing sick people, and in the natural course of events it happened that the last thing He did with His kind hands was to heal a bad cut. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> (I wonder how they could have the heart to bind His hands after that.) In this, as in everything, He left us an example that we should follow His steps . <strong><span style="color: #2f11ec;">(1 Peter 2:21)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Do the things that this next minute, this next hour, brings you, faithfully and lovingly and patiently; and then the last thing you do, before power to do is taken from you (if that should be), will be only the continuation of all that went before. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Edges of His Ways - Amy Carmichael</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9279</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>The Patience of God</strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2d0ef2;">And account that the long-suffering of our Lord is salvation. (2 Peter 3:15)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">When you are stuck in traffic, it does no good to blow your horn. It’s a test of patience. Same in Emergency when it’s overloaded. Not helpful to rant loudly about the failing system; instead exhibit patience. As the saying goes, What can’t be cured, must be endured. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong>True Patience</strong> - <strong><span style="color: #3817e8;">“The Lord is not slack concerning His promises as some men count slackness, but is long suffering (patient), not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.”</span></strong> <strong><span style="color: #1d11f3;">(2 Peter 3:9)</span></strong>. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> How long has God been showing His patience? It’s been more than 2,000 years since the gospel of the Grace of God was first proclaimed; and now the message has been spread throughout the world. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">What is God Waiting For?</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> -</span> He has clearly stated in His Book, the Bible, that there will be an end to this preaching, marking the end of His patience. <strong><span style="color: #0f12f1;">Matthew 24:44</span></strong>: “<strong><span style="color: #3612f4;">Therefore, be also ready, for in such an hour as you think not the Son of Man comes</span></strong>.” So, why has God’s patience been extended for so long? Perhaps, He’s waiting for one more soul to repent of their sins and believe on His Son, Jesus Christ, for permanent salvation. Could it be that God is waiting for you? </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Come to Jesus - Agree with God that you are a hopeless, helpless sinner. Others cannot help you and on your own, you can do nothing to gain favour with God, except cry to the Lord Jesus for rescue. He will surely hear a sincere and desperate call to lift your soul out of that “dead end” situation. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">“<strong><span style="color: #1d07ef;">Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. (<span style="font-size: 13px;">Romans 10:13)”</span></span></strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lorne Perry for Vision 2020 in 2023</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9280</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">(Romans 12:19)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">There are seasons when to be </span><em><span style="color: black;">still</span></em><span style="color: black;"> demands immeasurably higher strength than to act.</span><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span><span style="color: black;"> Composure is often the highest result of power.</span><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span><span style="color: black;"> To the vilest and most deadly charges Jesus responded with deep, unbroken silence, such as excited the wonder of the judge and the spectators.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong> </strong></span><strong><span style="color: blue;"> </span></strong><span style="color: black;">To the grossest insults, the most violent ill-treatment and mockery that might well bring indignation into the feeblest heart, He responded with voiceless complacent calmness.</span><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></span><span style="color: black;"> Those who are unjustly accused, and </span><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;">causelessly ill-treated know what tremendous strength is necessary to keep silence to God. </span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: blue;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">"Men may misjudge thy aim, Think they have cause to blame, </span></span></strong></em></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: blue;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Say, thou art wrong; Keep on thy quiet way, </span></span></strong></em></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: blue;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Christ is the Judge, not they, Fear not be strong.”</span></span></strong></em></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;">Paul said,</span><em><strong> "None of these things move me." (Acts 20:24)</strong></em></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;">He did not say, none of these things </span><em><span style="color: black;">hurt</span></em><span style="color: black;"> me. It is one thing to be </span><em><span style="color: black;">hurt</span></em><span style="color: black;">, and quite another to be moved. Paul had a very tender heart. We do not read of any apostle who cried as Paul did. It takes a strong man to cry. Jesus wept, and He was the manliest Man that ever lived. So it does not say, none of these things hurt me. </span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;">But the apostle had determined not to move from what he believed was right. He did not count as we are apt to count; he did not care for ease; he did not care for this mortal life. He cared for only one thing, and that was to be loyal to Christ, to have His smile. To Paul, his work was wages, his smile was Heaven.</span><strong> </strong><em><strong><span style="color: #1d1d1d;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Margaret Bottome</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #1d1d1d;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> </span></span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9281</span></span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #3b11f5;">Thy name is as ointment poured forth. Song of Solomon 1:3</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">Have you ever tried to get something out of a bottle without taking the cork out first? Some people remind me of bottles with the cork in.There is something truly good inside but it is corked up. It cannot get out for the help of others. Do you feel sometimes like a corked up bottle? </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It is a stuffy uncomfortable sort of feeling, but some manage to get on like that for months on end, to their great loss, and the loss, of all who have to do with them. Dear corked up bottles do go and get uncorked!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">There is only one who can take out the cork of self-love, or shyness, or sleepiness, or whatever it is that that keeps you from pouring out for others all you have been given. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> He Who was always sweetness poured <strong><span style="color: #300cee;">(“Thy Name is as ointment poured forth”)</span></strong>, He can uncork your bottle, and then all you are and have will be used in the joyful service of others. <em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Amy Carmichael - Edges of His Ways</span></strong></em> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9282</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #122eee;">They reel to and fro . . . and are at their wits end. </span></strong><span style="color: #122eee;"> </span><strong><span style="color: #122eee;">Psalm 107:27</span></strong><span style="color: #122eee;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Are you standing at “Wits’ End Corner” Christian, with troubled brow? </span><span style="color: black;">Are you thinking of what is before you, and all you are bearing now? </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Does all the world seem against you, and you in the battle alone? </span><span style="color: black;">Remember—at “Wits’ End Corner” is just where God’s power is shown.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Are you standing at “Wits’ End Corner,“ your work before you spread, </span><span style="color: black;">All begun, lying unfinished and pressing on heart and head,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Longing for strength to do it, stretching out trembling hands? </span><span style="color: black;">Remember—at ‘Wits’ End Corner,“ the Burden-Bearer stands.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Are you standing at “Wit’s End Corner”, yearning for those you love, </span><span style="color: black;">Longing, and praying, and watching, pleading their cause above,</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Trying to lead them to Jesus, wond’ring if you’ve been true? </span><span style="color: black;">He whispers at “Wits’ End Corner,” I’ll win them, as I won you!” </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Are you standing at “Wits’ End Corner?” Then you’re just in the very spot, </span><span style="color: black;">To learn the wondrous resources of Him who faileth not!</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">No doubt, to a brighter pathway your footsteps will soon be moved, </span><span style="color: black;">But only at “Wits’ End Corner” is the </span><strong><span style="color: #360bf7;">“God who is able”</span></strong><span style="color: black;"> proved! </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Antoinette Wilson</span></span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #122eee;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9283</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #091dfa;">1 The Proverbs of Solomon the son of David, King of Israel; (Proverbs 1:1-4)</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #091dfa;">2 To know wisdom and instruction; to perceive the words of understanding;</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #091dfa;">3 To receive the instruction of wisdom, justice, and judgment, and equity;</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #091dfa;">4 To give subtility to the simple, to the young man knowledge and discretion.</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">There are ten words used in this brief introductory portion.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1a09fa;">“Every word of God is pure.” (30:5)</span></strong> so these terms throughout are employed with admirable precision.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The “wisdom” of verse 2 is “skilfulness”—the ability to use knowledge aright. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">“Instruction” is to teach by discipline.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">“Understanding” (intelligence) learning through the unhappy experiences of others or of oneself. “Wisdom” (righteousness) “right behaviour.” “judgment” to try the things that differ. “Equity” uprightness, or moral integrity. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">“Subtility” (prudence), “craftiness”. <strong><span style="color: #091cf7;">“Wise as serpents”</span></strong> answers to it in the New Testament. “Knowledge” is information of a sound character. “Discretion” is thoughtfulness, a characteristic in which the young are generally lacking, but which becomes manifest in one who feeds upon the Word of God.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In these words we have the description of a well-rounded character, and it is important to remember that the study and practice of God’s truth alone can produce it. To the young man this part of Holy Scripture especially appeals therefore, giving him needed furnishing for his path through the world. <strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Proverbs - H. A. Ironside</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9284</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0e1cf6;">Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him and given Him a Name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth: and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. Philippians 2:9-11</span></strong> </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">“<em><strong><span style="color: #0f12f1;"><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Every</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #0f12f1;"> knee should bow.”</span> I write in a land, where all around are those who put another name above the Name JESUS: nor will they bow to that worthy Name, for they will not acknowledge Him as GOD. But the day is coming when every one of them shall in virtue of the Name JESUS bow his knees. And those who hate that precious Name, whether dead or living, each one of them will also bow.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">And those knees that have only bowed to idols will, in the coming day, bow to that Name supreme-above every name.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> Yes, and the infidels and the scoffers, it matters not how bold they are now: and <strong><span style="color: #2d07f3;">“the fearful”</span></strong>, those who do not now bow for fear of the laugh of a fellow-mortal: each one of these shall surely bow. Notice, it does not bunch them together, and say “all the knees shall bow.” It looks at them each individually, <strong><span style="color: #1032f2;">”every knee shall bow.”</span> <span style="font-size: 13px;">Sacrifices Of Joy - Philippians G. Christopher Willis </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9285</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1e13f3;">But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. 1 Corinthians 11:28</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The above passage does not allow for the kind of self-examination which is really based upon a system of doubts and fears and has no warrant whatsoever in the Word of God. This self-judgment is a sacred Christian exercise of the most salutary character. It is based upon the most unclouded confidence as to our salvation and acceptance in Christ. The Christian is to judge self <em><strong>because</strong></em> he is, and not to see <em><strong>if</strong></em> he is a Christian. This makes all the difference.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> Were I to examine myself for a thousand years, I should never find myself to be anything other than a ruined, vile thing which God has set aside and which I am called to reckon as “dead”. How could I ever expect to get any comfortable evidence by any such examination? Impossible!</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">The Christian’s evidences are not to be found in his ruined self, but in the risen Christ; and the more he can get done with self and occupied with Christ, the happier and holier he will be.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> The Christian judges himself, his ways, his habits, his thoughts, his words, and his actions, because he believes he is a Christian, not because he doubts it. If he doubts, he is not fit to judge anything.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">It is as knowing and enjoying the eternal stability of God’s grace, the divine efficacy of the blood of Jesus, and the all-prevailing power of his advocacy, that the true believer judges himself. <em><strong><span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">The human idea of self-examination is founded upon unbelief.</span></strong></em> The divine idea of self-judgment is founded upon confidence in Christ. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">C. H. Mackintosh - </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9286</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 28</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #122eee;">Ye shall fear (reverence) every man his mother. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #122eee;">Leviticus 19:</span><span style="color: #122eee;">3</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">No one can adequately estimate a mother’s influence in the household and over her children either for good or ill. The first book every child reads, and the last to be laid aside, is the conduct of his or her mother.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">A godly mother will feel her need of private prayer that God may give her daily wisdom, so that by her words, by example, and by the whole current of her life she may be a model of what she would wish her children to be. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Nor will she fail to arrange the affairs of the household that the reading of the Scriptures and family prayers will not fall through for want of time. Even where there is great pressure a little effort can do much. A few minutes spent together in the sanctuary of God’s presence may yield gracious help all day.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">A wise mother will be careful not to give her children thoughtless commands, but when a command is given she will kindly but firmly insist on prompt obedience. She will not hastily threaten, but first ask herself whether she intends to carry out her threat if disobeyed. If not, she will see it to be much better not to threaten at all. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">A sensible mother will never correct her child until she is sure the child deserves correction. The child’s story will first be heard—the whole of it—and if scolding is needed, it will be given, but not in the presence of others if it can be helped. Nor should a child ever be deceived, and when a promise is made it should be faithfully kept.</span></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">There are many worries, cares and anxieties in a mother’s life that are not always sufficiently considered, and which even the husband and father may know nothing of. But a little sympathy or an appreciative word by her husband will do wonders. </span><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Lord is Near - 1995</span></span></strong><span style="color: black;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #122eee;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9287</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: blue;">“Then the band and the captain and officers of the Jews took Jesus, and bound Him, and led Him away.” </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: blue;">(John 18:12) </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Thus was it, so far, with the Lord. And as we still follow Him, we still trace the way of the Son of God, the Lord from heaven. Whether we listen to Him with the officers, or with the high priest, or before Pilate, it is still in the same tone of holy distance from all that was around Him. They may do to Him whatsoever they list—He is as a stranger to it. He is not careful to answer them in their matters. He would pass through all in loneliness. </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">The daughters of Jerusalem do not here either yield Him their sympathy, or receive His; nor does a dying thief share that hour with Him. He is the lonely One all through that dreary way. <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Peter is found in the way of the ungodly, warming himself among them</span>, as one who had only the resources which they had. <span style="text-decoration-line: underline;">Another (perhaps John himself) takes his place as the acquaintance of the high priest,</span> and gets his advantage as such.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;"> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">But all this was a sinking down into mere nature, and leaving the Son of God alone—as He had said to them, </span><span style="color: #2b12f6;">“Ye . . . shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with Me.” (John 16:32)</span><span style="color: black;"> <span style="font-size: 13px;">J. G. Bellett</span> </span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">N.J.Hiebert - 9288</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 30</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2809f5;">Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees; and make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed. Follow peace with all men, and holiness.” </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #2809f5;">Hebrews 12:12-14</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">In verse 12 we are exhorted not to let our hands hang down. There is no reason why it should be so. </p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"> Though you are under the scourge there is not one single reason why your hands should hang down or your knees be feeble; for the Spirit has shown you yourself first in company with Christ and then with your Father who loves you. Is there any reason why you should travel as if you did not know the road? This is a beautiful conclusion.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">We all know how the hands will hang down; but I set my seal to every word of this and say, “Truth, Lord.” There is no reason that we should be faint-hearted. Then having come to that he looks round. Do not let your own hands hang down; and in connection with others follow peace—in connection with God follow holiness.</p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #0e0df7;">“What communion hath light with darkness—what concord hath Christ with Belial?” (2 Corinthians 6:14)</span></strong> <strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Musings on the Epistle to the Hebrews - J. G. Bellett</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9289</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 31</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">WEATHER WATCHERS</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #122eee;">He that observeth the winds shall not sow; and he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap. Ecclesiastes 11:4</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">If a farmer waited until he was sure of the weather he would never raise a crop. He has to reckon with the weather and contend with it, but he cannot be sure of it. So every year he makes a venture of faith.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">We cannot let the wind and clouds of circumstance determine our course. We cannot grow a harvest for God with one eye on the weather. Just as with the farmer, circumstances are to be considered, and we shall not foolishly disregard them. But we must not let them be the main factors in making our decisions.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">Too many saints live fearfully from one “weather report” to another, scanning the skies and watching the clouds, conscious of “conditions“ rather than of Christ. Faith goes ahead in fair weather and foul. It breaks up the fallow ground, sows the seed, cultivates the crop, and gathers the harvest.</span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: black;">There may be pests and floods and droughts, but the Lord of the Harvest will see to it that our labour is not in vain. </span><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Day by Day with Vance Havner</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: black;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="color: #122eee;">N.J.Hiebert - 9290</span></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1d0dfa;">Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. Ye are My friends. </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1d0dfa;">John 15:13,14 </span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">What a Friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear! </span></strong><strong><span style="color: black;">What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer!</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">O, what peace we often forfeit, O, what needless pain we bear; </span></strong><strong><span style="color: black;">All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer!</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere? </span></strong><strong><span style="color: black;">We should never be discouraged; Take it to the Lord in prayer.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">Can we find a Friend so faithful, Who will all our sorrows share? </span></strong><strong><span style="color: black;">Jesus knows our every weakness—Take it to the Lord in prayer.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care? </span></strong><strong><span style="color: black;">Precious Saviour, still our refuge,—take it to the Lord in prayer.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: black;">Do thy friends despise, forsake thee? Take it to the Lord in prayer; </span></strong><strong><span style="color: black;">In His arms He’ll take and shield thee, thou wilt find a solace there.</span></strong></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Joseph M. Scriven</span></span><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> </span></span><span style="font-size: 13px;">(1819—1886)</span></strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"></span></em></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: justify; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"></span></p><p style="background-color: white; color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; white-space-collapse: preserve; word-break: break-word;">N.J.Hiebert - 9291</p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><strong><span style="color: #1c0cf3;">We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. 1 John 3:14</span></strong></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">Sorrows and trials are not only like the sand and grit that polish a stone, but I shall be made to taste, through the trouble, what Christ is to me.</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">If an angel from heaven were to come to my bedside, and tell me that Christ was occupied with me, as a member of His body, should I be more certain of that love than I am?</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">It is no delusion but a fact, that Christ loves me, and will love me right on to the end; and He will not cease making me know it till He gets me into the Father’s house to be eternally in the full fruition of it.</p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;">What a happy people we should be if we were mirrors reflecting Christ, in the perfect consciousness of our weakness, but looking at Christ in heaven, bearing up amidst all the evil that is coming in like a flood, because He is up there! </p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Gleanings </span><span style="font-size: 10px;">From the</span><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Teaching </span><span style="font-size: 10px;">of </span><span style="font-size: 13px;">- G. V. Wigram </span></strong></em></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><br /></p><p style="color: #202020; direction: ltr; font-family: "Helvetica Neue", Helvetica, Arial, Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 16px; letter-spacing: 0px; line-height: 1.5; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; word-break: break-word;"><em>N.J.Hiebert - 9292</em></p></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 4</span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-66509769038439824732023-06-01T06:00:00.043-04:002023-06-28T07:43:56.823-04:00Gems from June 2023<p><span style="font-size: x-large;">June 1</span></p><div><strong style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">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</span></strong></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Two Christian women were talking together. One said to the other, "I have got a very comforting text, which helps me much; <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"What time I am afraid, I will trust in Thee." (Psalm 56:3)</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The other Christian replied,<span style="color: blue;"><strong> "I have a better text than that: I will trust and not be afraid' " (Isaiah -12:2)</strong></span> Now we would not compare one text with another where all are from God's Word, and are the expression of His people's confidence in Him, and as such are comforting. <br /><br />There is the infirmity of human nature, and in this our great High Priest has sympathy. No one need chide himself if a certain amount of fear and apprehension possesses the heart during those times of stress, if only in the fear there is a turning to the Lord to find a refuge in Him. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Psalm 56:3)</strong></span>. <br /><br />Happy is the one who has this experience, happier still if this leads to a deeper acquaintance with God, so that in quiet confidence in Him they can really say, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I will trust and not be afraid."</strong></span> For let us remember: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee: because he trusteth in Thee." (Isaiah 26:3) </strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">A. J. Pollock</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9230</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Then cometh Simon Peter following him, and went into the sepulchre, and seeth the linen clothes lie, and the napkin that was about His head, not lying with the linen clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself...and he saw, and believed. (John 20:6-8)</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The seemingly unimportant detail of the linen clothes, that wrapped the body of our Lord, being left in the tomb, though unnoticed by the women, was a convincing proof of resurrection to both Peter and John. It was not merely the fact that the linen was there, although that was a matter to arrest attention; but the place of the linen of the body, separated from the napkin of the head, and the way the linen was wrapped together--these forced on the observant disciples the conviction of their Lord's resurrection.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Had the body of Christ been carried from the grave, linen clothes would have gone with Him. However, had the hand of man removed the linen from both body and head, all would have been thrown on a heap in the grave. No human hand could have folded the linen so. What purpose would any person have to attempt to wrap the linen in this way even if it had been possible? </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Those linen clothes were a miracle. Both Peter and John knew without a doubt what they meant. The body that was wrapped in those garments had disappeared from them without disturbing them. Resurrection had taken place. Although Peter and John did not yet know the scripture that He must rise again, those linen clothes convinced them absolutely that their Lord rose from the tomb. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(John 20:9)</strong></span>. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Our Lord Jesus Christ - A Plant of Renown Leonard Sheldrake</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - (9231)</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And when she (Jochebed) could not longer hide him (Moses) she took for him an ark of bullrushes...and laid it in the flags by the river's brink. And his sister (Miriam) stood afar off, to wit what would be done to him. (Exodus 2:3-4) </strong></span><br /><br />The angels could hardly have had a more interesting sight than they had when, more than 3000 years ago, they watched little Miriam minding the baby. If they only could have known who the baby that lay in that rude cradle was to become and what stupendous work he was to accomplish!</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">But poor little Miriam, the Hebrew slave-child, probably felt only a horrible dread when the retinue of the princess of Egypt approached and a suffocating fright when the crying baby was drawn forth from his hiding place by the people who had decreed his death. Moses' parents were godly people, and evidently they recognized God's special grace in giving them this child. No doubt Miriam was quite thankful to observe that the princess was evidently pleased with the child.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">This is the moment which Miriam seizes to run forward and ask the princess whether she would like her to fetch a Hebrew woman to nurse the baby for her. Do so, says the princess, and the girl hurries away to bring the baby's own mother. The courage and resourcefulness shown by Miriam, together with her devotion to a task monotonous and dangerous gives an impression that she was being taught by God for the part she had yet to fill. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">We do not usually rate the services of a nursemaid very high, but still she may be, like Miriam, doing work of enormous importance in guarding the beginning of some God-inspired life. Yes, Miriam may have thought she was only minding the baby, when all the time she was watching over the destinies of the planet. When the princess had received the infant, most watchers would have quietly gone away home quite satisfied, but Miriam clinches the nail and makes it a rivet.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Shall I go and call to thee a nurse..." Exodus 2:7-9)</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Christian - J. C. Bayley</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9232</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>O Lord, my strength, and my fortress, and my REFUGE in the day of affliction. Jeremiah 16:19 <br /><br />In the fear of the Lord is strong confidence: and His children shall have a place of REFUGE. </strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Proverbs 14:26<br /><br />God is known . . . for a REFUGE. Psalm 48:3</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Let us walk with Him, lean on Him, cling to Him; </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He will uphold e'en the weakest that live; </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Glory to God! for with strength He does gird us; </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Power and might to the faint He does give; </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Here in this bulwark our faith finds a REFUGE, </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Ne'er may we measure its breadth and its length;</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When all the arms that we leaned on have failed us, </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Praises to Him, for His joy is our strength. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9233</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Above all things have fervent charity (love) among yourselves. 1 Peter 4:8 <br /><br />Love one another with a pure heart fervently. </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>1 Peter 1:22</strong></span><br /><br />Apollos was <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"fervent in the spirit" Acts 18:25</strong></span>--the word means t<em><strong>o boil</strong></em>, <em><strong>be ho</strong></em>t or fervid as in Paul's <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"be...fervent in spirit"</strong></span>. <strong><span style="color: blue;">(Romans 12:11)</span></strong>. (It was this Apollos, he of the fervent heart, whom Paul wanted to have with him in prison.) <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Titus 3:13)</strong></span><br /><br />I should like to think that we all desired a fervent heart. If we are anywhere but in the Love of God, we drift apart. If any have been cooling, drifting, if any are not warm in love towards one another, will they not find time for drawing near once more, first to their Lord, then, as His love re-kindles them, to one another? </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Edges of His Ways - Amy Carmichael</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />I am Thine, O Lord; I have heard Thy voice,<br />And it told Thy love to me;<br />But I long to rise in the arms of faith,<br />And be closer drawn to Thee.<br /><br />Consecrate me now to Thy service, Lord,<br />By the power of grace divine;<br />Let my soul look up with a steadfast hope,<br />And my will be lost in Thine. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Fanny Crosby</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9234</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Into a desert place apart." Matthew 14:13 </strong></span><br /><br />There is no music in a rest, but there is the making of music in it. In our whole life-melody the music is broken off here and there by "rests," and we foolishly think we have come to the end of the tune. <br /><br />God sends a time of forced leisure, sickness, disappointed plans, frustrated efforts, and makes a sudden pause in the choral hymn of our lives; and we lament that our voices must be silent, and our part missing in the music which ever goes up to the ear of the Creator. How does the musician read the "rest"? See him beat the time with unvarying count, and catch up the next note true and steady, as if no breaking place had come between.<br /><br />Not without design does God write the music of our lives. Be it ours to learn the tune, and not be dismayed at the "rests." They are not to be slurred over, not to be omitted, not to destroy the melody, not to change the keynote. If we look up, God Himself will beat the time for us. <br /><br />With the eye on Him, we shall strike the next note full and clear. If we sadly say to ourselves, "There is no music in a 'rest,' " let us not forget "there is the making of music in it." The making of music is often a slow and painful process in this life. How patiently God works to teach us! How long He waits for us to learn the lesson! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Ruskin </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9235</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Though He were a Son, yet learned He obedience by the things which He suffered. Hebrews 5:8 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It was an entirely </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>new</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> thing for the glorious Son of God to l</span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>earn obedience</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. He who commanded all things from all eternity came into this world of sin, and took the place of obedience, and in a pathway of suffering in which He never yielded to temptation--<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He suffered being tempted" (Hebrews 2:18)</strong></span>--never yielded--He learned what it was in this world to obey. <br /><br /><em><strong>We</strong></em> learn obedience by the subjection of our wicked hearts and wills to God. <em><strong>He</strong></em> learned it as One with Whom it was a new thing, and Who had a perfect will, but Who laid it aside--<span style="color: blue;"><strong>("not My will but Thine be done" (Luke 22:42)</strong></span> <u>Who submitted to everything, obeyed in everything, and depended on God for everything</u>. <br /><br /><u>His obedience ended in death rather than fail in faithfulness or obedience to His Father</u>. How contrary to the first Adam was the second, (Jesus) <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(1 Corinthians 15:45-47)</strong></span> in all this! And the Christian is <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"sanctified unto the obedience. . . . Jesus Christ." (1 Peter 1:2)</strong></span> May we have grace to be conformed to Him and to obey! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Scripture Notes and Queries - F. G. Patterson </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9236</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And Joseph said unto his brethren, come near to me, I pray you...moreover he kissed all his brethren...after that his brethren talked with him. Genesis 45:4,15.</strong></span> <br /><br />The love of Joseph has brought his brethren into sweet communion with himself. Now those whom Joseph has won for himself he will enlist in his service. His brethren shall become his witnesses. <br /><br />In like manner, the Lord deals with the demoniac <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Luke 8:29,35,39)</strong></span>: Clothed, in his right mind, and brought to sit at the feet of Jesus, he is prepared for the service of the Lord by the directions from the Lord, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Return to thine own house, and show how great things God hath done unto thee."</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(v.39)</strong></span><br /><br />So too, the Lord deals with his disciples on the evening of His resurrection day. Like Joseph in the presence of his brethren; He makes Himself known to the terrified and affrighted disciples and speaks to their troubled hearts the word of peace. Then it is He gives them the great commission and speaks of the high privilege of being His witnesses. <br /><br />As with the brethren of Joseph, the demoniac of a later day, and the disciples of the resurrection day, so with ourselves: <u>preparation for service must precede service</u>. We are often times more anxious to be used than exercised to be <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"meet for the Master's use and <u>prepared</u> for every good work." (2 Timothy 2:21)</strong></span> Further, our preparation for service is only gained as we are found alone with Christ, learning His mind in communion with Him and in the realization of His love.<br /><br />How touchingly is this prefigured in the fine scene between Joseph and his brethren, when, apart from all others, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"he kissed all his brethren...and after that his brethren talked with him."</strong></span> Then the commission to serve and every detail of the service they receive from the lips of Joseph. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">H. Smith</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9237</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things? (Romans 8:32)<br />Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort. (2 Corinthians 1:3) </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">And then notice the next title Paul gives Him, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"The Father of Mercies."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> That is, our God is the source of every mercy that comes to us. David says, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever" (Psalm 23:6)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. Some of these mercies we do not always appreciate. We sometimes think perhaps that God is dealing hardly with us when He is really dealing with us in mercy. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">A friend of mine who went to heaven some years ago, told of a time when he was riding on the top of an omnibus in Vienna, Austria, and they were held up because a flock of sheep was going down the street. As the folk on the bus leaned over to see what was going on, they noticed that there were two dogs running hither and thither to keep the sheep in the way. <br /><br />This friend turned to a stranger seated beside him and said, "Do you know the names of those two dogs?" The man said, "Indeed, I do not; I have never seen a sight like this before." Well, said my friend , "I think I know their names." "Do you?" "Yes; one of them is 'Goodness' and the other is 'mercy,' for David wrote about goodness and mercy following him all the days of his life."<br /><br />You might not think it was goodness and mercy to have a couple of dogs yapping at you to keep you from going to the left or to the right, but it is God's mercy that keeps us in the straight and narrow way, and He uses trial and difficulty for that very purpose. He is <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"the Father of mercies."</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">2 Corinthians - H. A. Ironside</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9238</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong style="font-size: 16px;">That in all things He might have the </strong><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">preeminence. Colossians 1:18</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Of the vast universe of bliss, the centre Thou, and Sun; <br />The eternal theme of praise is this, to heaven's beloved One; <br />Worthy, O Lamb of God, art Thou, that every knee to Thee should bow!</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">E. Condor</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>Christ is everything. He is everything to the heart of God, and He desires to be everything to the hearts of His people</u>. That it may be so with you is the highest blessedness I can desire for you. There is never any difficulty about guidance when the eye is on Christ, but if other considerations come in then you miss His leadings.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body." (Philippians 1:20).</strong></span><br /><br />Is it our desire to be able to adopt Paul's language? Do we hold our bodies as vessels for the display of Christ? As we rise in the morning do we look upon the coming day as another opportunity of making Christ great? <br /><br />We can present Christ to the hearts of men in our lives as well as by our words. We may not be able to explain a single passage of scripture, but we can <em><strong>live Christ</strong></em>. You may teach a Sunday school, or visit among the poor, and that is all right and good, but there is something far better--live <em><strong>Christ</strong></em>, present <strong><em>Christ</em></strong>. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Edward Dennett</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9239</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And He took them, and went aside privately into a desert place. (Luke 9:10)</strong></span> <br /><br />In order to grow in grace, we must be much alone. It is not in society that the soul grows most vigorously. In one single quiet hour of prayer it will often make more progress than in days of company with others. It is in the desert that the dew falls freshest and the air is purest. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Andrew Bonar</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">"Come ye yourselves apart and rest awhile,<br />Weary, I know it, of the press and throng,<br />Wipe from your brow the sweat and dust of toil,<br />And in My quiet strength again be strong. <br /><br />"Come ye aside from all the world holds dear,<br />For converse which the world has never known,<br />Alone with Me, and with My Father here,<br />With Me and with My Father not alone. <br /><br />"Come, tell Me all that ye have said and done,<br />Your victories and failures, hopes and fears.<br />I know how hardly souls are wooed and won:<br />My choicest wreaths are always wet with tears.<br /><br />"Come ye and rest; the journey is too great,<br />And ye will faint beside the way and sink;<br />The bread of life is here for you to eat,<br />And here for you the wine of love to drink.<br /><br />"Then fresh from converse with your Lord return,<br />And work till daylight softens into even:<br />The brief hours are not lost in which ye learn<br />More of your Master and His rest in Heaven. - </span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Streams in the Desert </strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9240</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, Who raised Him from the dead;)...<br /><br />from our Lord Jesus Christ, Who gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father...<br /><br />But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach <u>any other gospel</u> unto you than (beside) that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed..." (Galatians 1:1-8) </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">If I have the happy privilege, and the solemn responsibility of announcing God's good news, how earnestly I should seek to see to it, that what I announce is in very truth God's good news, and not my own thoughts or ideas; else it may be that solemn word may come to me: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Cursed be he!"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> If anyone tells me I must keep the law for salvation, or as a "rule of life", that is not "good news." It is very, very, bad news, for I never can keep the law, and I must perish. The false teachers were perverting the good news. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Sad to say, there are many today who preach the law, without the least idea that they are putting themselves under this terrible curse, because they preach a different good news which is not another. <u>It is Christianity with something added</u>. But you say, surely if an angel from heaven brings me this good news, then I can believe it! <u>No</u>, not even if an angel bring it! Remember that Satan himself is changed into an angel of light <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Galatians 1:8,9)</strong></span>. <br /><br /><u>Will you believe Satan or God</u>? Notice that little word <em><strong>"beside"</strong></em> "good news <em><strong>beside</strong></em> the good news which we brought to you". God does not allow any rival good news. And God will not allow any mixture with His good news; nor will He allow anything to be added <em><strong>beside </strong>the good news that He </em> has given to us. You cannot have the gospel of God and the law added to, or mixed with, it. God's good news stands alone. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Galatians - G. C. Willis</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9241</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>FAITH OR "IT"?<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">"According to your faith be it unto you . . ." </span></strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Matthew 9:29</span></strong><br /><br /><em><strong>"According to your faith be </strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 18px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>it</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong> . . ."</strong></em> Be what? How much does "it" include? Here is one of the smallest and one of the biggest words--small in the dictionary but large in our text! For </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 18px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"it"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> includes all our need which God will supply according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. And the measure of that supply is <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"according to your faith."</strong></span> <br /><br />You may have all you need and all that faith will take. Whether that need be trivial or tremendous makes no difference to God--everything is His, anyway. You need not mind bringing to him the simplest matter. <br /><br />The sparrow's fall does not escape His notice. Nor will you strain the heavenly resources with a stupendous request. The ocean will hold up a boat or a battleship, and God's grace will stand any weight you put upon it. <br /><br />So, whatever </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 18px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"it"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> may be that you are facing, no matter how hard or hopeless </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 18px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"it"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> may seem, do not let </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 18px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"it"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> dominate your faith, make </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 18px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"it"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 18px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">submit to your faith. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"According to your faith be </strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 18px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>it</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"</strong></span> is God's yardstick, <u>not according to </u></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 18px; text-align: justify;"><u><strong>it</strong></u></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u> be you faith</u>." <br /><br />Are you living by the tyranny of </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 18px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"it"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> or by the triumph of Faith?</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Day by Day with Vance Havner</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9242</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>And they were all amazed, and they glorified God, and were filled with fear, saying, we have seen strange things to day. Luke 5:26 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The Lord Jesus is the summing up of all possible beauty and perfection in Himself. The Man Christ Jesus grew in favour with God and man. He was always the servant of everyone. The first thing that struck me in reading the gospels was, Here is a Man that never did anything for Himself. What a miracle to see a Man not living to Himself, for He had got God for Himself. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The gospels display the One in whom was no selfishness. They tell out the heart that was ready for everybody. No matter how deep His own sorrow, He always cared for others. He could warn Peter in Gethsemane, and comfort the dying thief on the cross. </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">His heart was above circumstances, never acting under them, but ever according to God in them</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The only act of disobedience which Adam could commit he did commit; but He who could have done all things as to power, only used His power to display more perfect service, more perfect subjection. How blessed is the picture of the Lord's ways! </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The more faithful He was, the more despised and opposed; the more meek, the less esteemed; but all this altered nothing, because He did all to God alone: with the multitude, with His disciples, or before His unjust judges, nothing altered the perfectness of His ways, because in all circumstances all was done to God. <br /><br />What was then the life of Jesus, the Man of Sorrows and acquainted with grief? A life of activity in obscurity, causing the love of God to penetrate the most hidden corners of society, wherever needs were greatest. This life did not shelter itself from the misery of the world, but it brought into it--precious grace--the love of God. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. N. Darby</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9243</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And he slew it; and Moses took of the blood of it, and put it upon the tip of Aaron's right ear, and upon the thumb of his right hand, and upon the great toe of his right foot. Leviticus 8:23</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong> </strong></span><br /><br />This chapter deals with the consecration of Aaron as High P</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">riest and his sons as priests. The week long ceremonial process meant to set these faithful men apart for the service of God. Included was the donning of the special robes, every aspect of which spoke of the glories, attributes and beauties of Christ. Two animals were offered each day, one for God as a burnt sacrifice, speaking of Christ's devotion unto death; and the other for the consecration of the priests, speaking of our devotion to Him. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Each drop of blood on three particular parts of their body, ear, finger and toe, had its own special significance. First, we hear the Word of God through our<strong style="font-size: 16px;"> ears</strong>; the blood having reference to Christ as God's gift for salvation. The repetition seven days reminds us that our preparation to serve the Lord by remembering Him on the eighth day needs to be part of each preceding day of the week. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The application to their </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">hand</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> tells of all the ways they could be of service; and the same for us. After we have been in the Lord's presence, we are energized to please Him in serving according to our abilities, spiritual enjoyment of Christ and despite limitations. <br /><br />Finally, the blood applied to their <strong>foot</strong> is all about walking in the footsteps of our Saviour. They and we are responsible to live our lives as a testimony to Jesus Christ our Lord, both to those near at hand in assembly and family, as well as the unsaved in our neighbourhoods, schools and workplaces. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lorne Perry</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>There from His head, His hands ,His feet,<br />Sorrow and love flowed mingled down;<br />Did e'er such love and sorrow meet,<br />Or thorns compose so rich a crown?</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Isaac Watts</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9244</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Only by pride cometh contention. Proverbs 13:10 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">There never was a bit of trouble between saints, but pride was at the bottom of it! You stand up for your rights, and the Lord will put you down. You may get what you want, but the Lord will have His hand against you. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">A Christian should be like a piece of indiarubber, always giving way, never resisting, except it be the devil. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"The light of the righteous rejoiceth; but the lamp of the wicked shall be put out." (Proverbs 13:9)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time." (1 Peter 5:6)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />What a much more blessed thing to humble ourselves under His mighty hand, and for Him to exalt us, than than to exalt ourselves, and for Him to have to put us down! <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Whosoever exalteth Himself shall be abased." (Luke 14:11)</strong></span> That is the first man. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He that humbleth himself shall be exalted." (v.11)</strong></span> That is the second man.<br /><br />The first man (Adam) sought to make himself God, and fell into companionship with Satan; the second Man, who was God, made Himself nothing, and God has exalted Him to the very highest glory. <br /><br />There are two ways in which God humbles us. By the discovery of what is in our hearts, and by the discovery of what is in His heart--and nothing so humbles us as to discover what is in His heart--but humble myself as I may, I do not believe I ever get down to my true level--to the place in which God sees me. <br /><br />It should be a continual process. <u>There is a difference between being humble, and being <em>humbled</em></u>. I am humble when I am in God's presence, occupied with what He is. I am humbled when I am compelled to look at myself, for self is always a sad sight. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>Simon Peter - W.T. P. Wolston</em></strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9245</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>For the Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:<br />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. </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>(1 Thessalonians 4:16-17)</strong></span>. <br /><br />It's becoming difficult to get everything done these days. Time saving devices turn into time stealing vices. Do you wonder if you'll ever get caught up? The answer is, Yes! <br /><br />The dead have ceased from their labours, but we which are alive and remain will one day, finally be caught up, not with our chores, but with our Saviour to be with Him forevermore! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Rex Trogdon</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Oh joy, oh delight, should we go without dying! <br />No sickness, no sadness, no dread and no crying!<br />Caught up through the clouds with our Lord into glory,<br />When Jesus receives His own.</strong></em> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">H. L. Turner</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9246</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>HE DID WHAT HE CAME TO DO<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">I have glorified Thee on the earth: <u>I have finished the work</u> which Thou gavest Me to do. John 17:4 </span></strong><br /><br />His great promise has had its first fulfillment "unto Thee." It is a finished fact of sevenfold grace. The Lord has come and His own voice has given the objects of His coming: <br /><br />- "to do Thy will, O God;"<br />- to fulfill the law;<br />- "to call sinners to repentance";<br />- "to seek and to save that which was lost";<br />- "that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly";<br />- "a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on Me should not abide in darkness."<br />- What He came to do He has done, for "He faileth not."<br />- On this we may and ought to rest quietly and un-doubtingly, for "the Lord hath done it."</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">For I know that what He doeth stands forever, fixed and true; <br />Nothing can be added to it, nothing left for us to do;<br />Nothing can be taken from it, done for me and done for you,<br />Evermore and evermore.<br /><br />Listen now! the Lord hath done it! for He loved us unto death;<br />It is finished! He has saved us! Only trust to what He saith. <br />He hath done it! Come and bless Him, spend in praise your ransomed breath <br />Evermore and evermore.</span><br /><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Francis Ridley Havergal </span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9247</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; Yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. Isaiah 41:10 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We learn, that while He is able to keep us from falling, we are to cooperate with Him in that keeping. It is those who are preserved in Jesus Christ, and who will ultimately be presented before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, that are asked to keep themselves in the love of God <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Jude, 24 and 21)</strong></span>. And then, fulfilling that injunction, we shall face the perils ahead of us with unflinching courage, and we shall be able to say to these hearts of ours: </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">"Why those fears? Behold 'tis Jesus holds the helm and guides the ship; Spread the sails and catch the breezes sent to waft us through the deep,</span><br /><span style="font-size: 16px;">To the regions where the mourners cease to weep.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 16px;">"Though the shore we hope to land on, only by report is known, Yet we freely all abandon, led by that report alone,</span><br /><span style="font-size: 16px;">And, with Jesus, through the trackless deep move on.<br /><br />"Led by faith, we brave the ocean; led by faith, the storm defy; Calm amidst tumultuous motion, knowing that the Lord is nigh:<br />Waves obey Him, and the storms before Him fly.</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>"Rendered safe by His protection, we shall pass the watery waste, Trusting to His wise direction we shall gain the port at last,<br />And, with wonder, think on toils and dangers past.<br /> <br />"Oh, what pleasures there await us; there the tempests cease to roar; There it is that they who hate us, can molest our peace no more.<br />Trouble ceases on that tranquil, happy shore."</strong></em> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">T. Kelly<br />The Best is Yet to Be</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> - </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Henry Durbanville</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> N.J.Hiebert - 9248</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>I sought the Lord, and He heard me, and delivered me from all my fears. Psalm 34:4 </strong></span><br /><br />Once we overheard a conversation that passed between two Christians we shall not easily forget. One was aged, and had been prosperous, but in the decline of life misfortune overtook him through the dishonesty of another. We can see him now as he stood in the doorway, his shining face set off by an abundance of white hair. <br /><br />As they parted his friend said to him quoting <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Psalm 34:6</strong></span>. "Well, remember, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>'this poor man cried, and the Lord heard him, and saved him out of all his <u>troubles</u>.' </strong></span>" "Ah," he said (and they were the last words we ever heard him utter), <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He has done a greater thing for me than that: He has delivered me from all my <u>fears</u>" (v.4)</strong></span> <br /><br />Yes, it is surely a greater thing to be <em><strong>delivered from</strong></em> all our <em><strong>fears</strong></em> than <span style="color: blue;"><strong>saved out</strong></span> of all our troubles. It is those fears that cast such a dark cloud over many a life. And yet how often they are groundless fears! <br /><br />But if trouble actually does come, and the trial is upon us, then let us remember the words of the Psalm already quoted: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles."</strong></span> He <span style="color: blue;"><strong>cried</strong></span> just as if he had fallen into some pit, or was being washed out to sea. And this is just how we must cry to God in our trouble. <br /><br />In this connection there are three verses we might do well to keep in mind. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"> - "What time I am afraid, I will trust in Thee."<br /> - "I will trust and not be afraid." <br /> - "Trust in Him at all times</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"> "Angels in White - Russell Elliott</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9249</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>And David said in his heart, I shall now perish one day by the hand of Saul: There is nothing better for me than that I should speedily escape into the land of the Philistines; and Saul will despair of me to seek me any more within all the limits of Israel, and I shall escape out of his hand"<br />(1 Samuel 27:1) </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Isn't it surprising to see David's weakness here after so many striking marks of divine protection? Just yesterday he had said, full of confidence: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"let my life be highly esteemed in the eyes of Jehovah, that He may deliver me out of all distress!" (ch. 26:24)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. Today his courage is gone and he says: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"I shall now one day perish by the hand of Saul."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> We must often experience that a great victory is apt to be followed by a great despondency. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When God was with us, did we not happen to attribute something to ourselves? When David said to Saul: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Jehovah will render to every man his righteousness and his faithfulness" (ch 26:23)</strong></span>, God alone knows whether or not there was some self-satisfaction in these words. Therefore God leaves us to ourselves (I am not saying, of course, that He forsakes us) in order to show us that we cannot have any confidence in the flesh. <br /><br />Thus we learn to probe <strong><em>"the division of soul and spirit"</em></strong> which is so subtle that in the fight of faith we are often unaware of the mixture of the two, and that gold which has been refined, or which appears to have been refined, still needs the crucible to be purified from every alloy. This clearly explains the weakness of believers at the very time when their faith has been shining so splendidly. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>1 Samuel - Dr. Henri L. Rossier</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9250</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">There they made Him a supper. John 12:2 <br /><br />While the king sitteth at His table, my spikenard sendeth forth the smell thereof. </span></strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Song of Solomon 1:12</span> </strong><br /><br />It was not often in this sad world that anyone made a supper for the Lord. There at last they spread a feast for Him who spread a feast for all the world. There the king sat at His table, and there the spikenard of the bride sent forth its fragrance. It had been blessed to sit at His feet as a learner and hear His word, but Mary's spikenard sent forth no fragrance there. It was blessed to fall at His feet in the day of sorrow and receive the comfort of His tears, but it drew no fragrant spikenard from Mary's broken heart. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">But when the king sat at His table in the midst of His own, no longer sustaining them in the pathway, comforting them in their sorrows, dealing with their weakness or correcting their mistakes, but now resting in His love in holy communion and intimacy with His own, then indeed the suited moment had come to bring forth the alabaster box and pour out the precious spikenard upon the King, and the house was filled with the odour of the ointment <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(John 12:3)</strong></span>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It is the presence of the King at His table that calls forth the worship of His own. Only a heart set free from its sorrows, and its exercises, and busy service, can worship in the presence of the King. <u>To learn at His feet is good, but learning is not worship</u>. <u>To be comforted by His tears of sympathy is sweet, But comfort is not is not worship</u>. <br /><br />But <u>when we spread a feast for Christ</u>--<u>when the King sits at His table</u>--it is no time for instruction or comfort. There we leave our sorrows, our ignorance, our daily cares behind, and at His supper, He <em><strong>alone</strong></em> engrosses the mind and holds the affections; and <u>when the heart is filled with Christ, we worship</u>--our spikenard <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"sends forth its fragrance."</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Hamilton Smith</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 9251</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Be ye thankful. Colossians 3:15</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">A well known, successful and popular professor of literature at a prestigious East Coast University spent some time reflecting on people who had helped him during his childhood and early, formative years--those who had nurtured, inspired, or cared enough about him to have made a real impact and lasting positive impression on him. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">One specially came to mind. She was an English teacher he had during high school. He had not thought of nor heard of her in many years. He specially remembered how she had spent much time with him, quietly working and going out of her way to instill a love of literature and poetry in him. The result had been that he developed a lifelong love of literature which further developed into a successful career. He decided that though long out of contact, he would write a letter of thanks to her for what she had done. <br /><br />It was not long before he received back a reply from his former teacher. It was a handwritten note penned in the rather shaky, hard to read scrawl of a very elderly person. The letter began "My dear Johnny". The middle aged professor was delighted to read that name for he did not think there was a person left in the world who still remembered his 'pet' name, "Johnny". <br /><br />"My dear Johnny, I cannot tell you how much your note meant to me. I am in my eighties, living alone in a small room, still cooking my own meals, lonely and, like the last leaf of autumn, still lingering behind. You will be interested to know that I taught school for over 50 years and yet, yours is the first note of appreciation I have ever received. It came to me on a rather gray, cold, depressing morning and cheered me as little else has done these past few years." <br /><br />What grief must the heart of the beloved Apostle Paul felt when he penned these words to Timothy shortly before his martyrdom: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"This thou knowest, that all they which are in Asia be turned away from me" (2 Timothy 1:15)</strong></span>. Earlier Paul had written to the Corinthians that he would <em><strong>gladly spend and be spent for them</strong></em>. How the beloved apostle loved his dear Corinthian children! (and how little he was loved) <u>How have we responded to those who, over the years, have been used in blessing in our lives</u>? </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Doug Nicolet - The Christian Shepherd - April 2008</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9252</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Strive to enter in at the <u>strait gate:</u> for many, I say unto you will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Luke 13:24 </strong></span><br /><br /><strong>W</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><strong>HAT IS THE STRAIT GATE?</strong><br /> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">There could have been no way of escape for sinners from the wrath to come, had not Jesus died upon the cross. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone; but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit."(John 12:24).</strong></span> It is the cross of Christ that speaks to us of sin put away, redemption accomplished, and of the sinner's only way to God. Christ crucified, then, is the <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"strait gate."</strong></span> <br /><br /><u>Jesus lifted up on the cross is the door of access</u>. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I am the door,</strong></span>" said He: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved."</strong></span> The cross of Christ, therefore, becomes the point of separation between the saved and lost. <br /><br />Not to enter into God's presence through this gate is still to tarry in the place of death and judgment; but to enter into the Father's presence through the atoning work of His dear Son is present peace and eternal salvation.<br /><br />The gospel thus presents to us a door of escape, and it is still wide open; it welcomes all guilty sinners that "enter in" by faith, thus sheltering them for ever from the wrath of God, and shutting them into the peace-speaking presence of the Father of mercies, and God of all comfort. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Streams of Refreshing - H. H. Snell </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9253</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>God is faithful who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way of escape, that ye may be able to bear it. </strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>1 Corinthians10:13 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In clearing a flower bed the other day to make room for some fruit trees I learned a beneficial lesson. The most difficult to pull up were the rose bushes, because they were more covered with thorns than any of the others. <br /><br />At the same time the rose was the sweetest flower that bloomed in the bed. There was a combination of the most thorns and the sweetest scent. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Ah! thought I, how like many a Christian. With some it is quite easy to be pleasant and amiable, and pleasantness and amiability may be mistaken for the graces of Christ. But when a rough, uncouth man is transformed into a gentle, lowly follower of Jesus, this is indeed grace. When a miserly person is generous and open-handed, this is indeed a triumph. And of all the bushes and plants I rooted up the thorny rose was the one I was most careful to find a new place for. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">May this little illustration be an encouragement to some of the Lord's people, who find it difficult to be pleasant and gracious, to think that if grace works in their hearts, the Lord may find His sweetest roses upon the His thorniest bushes. <br /><br />We are apt to judge superficially, and see much grace where there is little, and little where there is much. God reads aright, and values the flowers of His own cultivation. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Comforted of God - A. J. Pollock</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9254</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:2</strong></span><br /><br />Grace means "<u>Free, undeserved favour.</u>" And, Thanks be to God, that is just what God has shown us; and this is the message with which this lovely Epistle begins. But let us remember it is Grace, not from <em><strong>pity</strong></em>, but from <em><strong>Love</strong></em>. I write in Hong Kong, surrounded by tens of thousands of refugees in the most desperate poverty, misery, and squalor: daily I see the children in their rags and wretchedness, and my heart is moved with pity, and I seek to do what little I can to remove their misery. <br /><br />In a measure I show them Grace, for they do nothing to deserve help. But it is Grace moved by <strong><em>pity</em></strong>. But there are a few whom I dearly love, what a difference that makes! A few days ago a dear child we have known and loved for several years, showed me the soles of her shoes, without saying a word: both had great holes right through to her bare feet. <br /><br />I got her new shoes, and at the same time a pretty new dress, for I think she had only the shabby one she had on: I paid about ninety cents for it. When I gave them to her, she climbed on my knee, buried her head on my shoulder, her heart too full for words: and then at last she looked up with wonder, saying: "Mr. Lee, you must have paid a great deal for it!"<br /><br />It was grace, but grace moved by Love, and who can say whose pleasure was greater, the Child's, or mine? Let us ponder the Love behind the words: "GRACE TO YOU," and let us remember always the unfathomable cost. May our hearts respond, not with any formal thanks, but like the Child, may our hearts burst forth: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>THANKS BE UTO GOD FOR HIS UNSPEAKABLE GIFT!!! <br />(2 Corinthians 9:15)</strong></span>. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Philippians - G. Christopher Willis</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9255</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>ABOUNDING PROVISION</strong><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">I shall not want. Psalm 23:1 </span><br /><br />These words are firmly linked to the clause which precedes them, as consequence is to cause. With the Shepherd leading on in front of him, and <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"goodness and mercy"</strong></span>, like two faithful sheep-dogs, following hard behind them, David was as certain that he would not want anything here, as he was that he would dwell in the house of the Lord hereafter (<span style="color: blue;"><strong>compare John 10:4; Psalm 23:1 and 6</strong></span>). <br /><br />Now, if for a moment we regard Psalm 23 as a sweet toned instrument, and faith as the hand which plays upon it, we shall find that it yields to that touch, music of the most exquisite sweetness. What is it that <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I shall not want"?</strong></span> The hand of faith runs over the key-board and brings out twelve distinct notes. Listen to them:<br /><br />- I shall not want REST, for He maketh me to lie down. <br />- I shall not want REFRESHMENT, for He leads me by still waters. <br />- I shall not want PRESERVATION, for He restoreth my soul. <br />- I shall not want GUIDANCE, for He leadeth me. <br />- I shall not want PEACE, for I will fear no evil.<br />- I shall not want COMPANIONSHIP, for Thou art with me.<br />- I shall not want COMFORT, for Thy rod and staff comfort me. <br />- I shall not want SUSTENANCE, for Thou preparest a table.<br />- I shall not want JOY, for Thou anointest my head. <br />- I shall not want ANYTHING, for my cup runneth over. <br />- I shall not want HAPPINESS now, for goodness and mercy follow me.<br />- I shall not want GLORY hereafter, for I shall dwell in the house<br /> of the Lord forever. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">THE PEARL OF PSALMS</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> - </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">George Henderon</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9256</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 28</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And that He died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto Him which died for them and rose again. 2 Corinthians 5:15 </strong></span><br /><br />OH, the bitter shame and sorrow, that a time could ever be,<br />When I let the Saviour's pity plead in vain, and proudly answered: <br />All of self, and none of Thee.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Yet He found me: I beheld Him bleeding on the accursed tree,<br />Heard Him pray: "Forgive them, Father"; And my wistful heart said faintly:<br />Some of self and some of Thee.<br /><br />Day by day His tender mercy, healing, helping, full and free,<br />Sweet and strong, and ah! so patient, brought me lower, while I whispered: Less of self, and more of Thee.<br /><br />Higher than the highest heaven, deeper than the deepest sea,<br />LORD, Thy love at last hath conquered; Grant me now my supplication: <br />None of self, and all of Thee. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Theodore Monod, 1874</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9257</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. 2 Corinthians 4:17.</strong></span><br /><br /><em><strong>Though thy way be long and dreary,<br />Eagle strength He'll still renew;<br />Garments fresh and foot unweary<br />Tell how God hath brought thee through.</strong></em> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">J.N.D.</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />Ah! it is blessed to be at the feet of Jesus in our sorrows, for there divine light shines upon them, and though we may suffer, and even be oppressed with our trials, we shall not, while there, doubt His love. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Jesus wept."</strong></span> All know that the verses of our Bible are merely a human arrangement, and yet who can doubt that the Spirit of God controlled the one who made it in putting these two words into one verse? <br /><br />They indeed should stand alone, inasmuch as they afford such an an inlet into the recesses of the Lord's heart. They have been the comfort of mourners in all ages, and they will continue to minister consolation to His people until God Himself shall wipe away all tears from their faces. <br /><br /><strong><span style="color: blue;">"Come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matthew 11:28</span></strong> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Footprints for Pilgrims</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9258</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 30</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"The words of the wise are as goads." </strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Ecclesiastes 12:11</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Pray."</strong></span> But how? <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Without ceasing."</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Rejoice."</strong></span> But when? <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Evermore."</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Give thanks."</strong></span> For what? <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"In Everything." (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>The Christian in Complete Armour - William Gurnall</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9259</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump. Galatians 5:9 </strong></span><br /><br />Once there was a farmer who desired the use of a piece of ground that lay conveniently near his own, but the owner refused to sell. After much persuasion he was content to lease it. <br /><br />The farmer covenanted only to farm it for one crop. Now his bargain sealed, he planted his field with with acorns-- a crop that lasted not one year but <strong><em>three hundred!</em></strong> <br /><br />So Satan seeks to to get possession of our souls by asking us to permit some small sin to enter, some one wrong that seems of no great account. But when once he has entered and planted the seeds and beginnings of evil, he <em><strong>holds</strong></em> his ground, and sins and evils amazingly multiply. <br /><br />The dangerous thing about a <em><strong>little</strong></em> sin is that it won't stay little.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Each sin has its door of entrance. <br />Keep--that--door--closed!<br />Bolt it tight! <br />Just outside, the wild beast crouches<br />In the night. <br />Pin the bolt with a prayer, <br />God will fix it there.</span><span style="font-size: 16px;"> </span>-- Mountain Trailways for Youth</strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9260</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm. Then the presidents and princes sought to find occasion against Daniel concerning the kingdom; but they could find none occasion nor fault; for as much as he was faithful, neither was there any error or fault found in him. Daniel 6:3,4 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Daniel is coming under fire. His fame in the workplace had aroused some enemies, and they hatched a political plot to bring Daniel down. They engineered a situation whereby the king was made to sign a document which would place Daniel in an impossible situation, without the king being aware of what was being done either to him or to Daniel.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">After the document was signed, Daniel was identified to the king as a non-conformist, as one who persisted in holding views and engaging in practices that were contrary to what the king had legislated. The king realized that he himself had been trapped and that he could do nothing about it, but to cast Daniel upon the mercy of God in the den of lions. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The Christian also runs the gauntlet of political intrigue in the business environment. Because the techniques and manoeuvrings employed by others are not available to him, he appears vulnerable. Let us never be tempted to retaliate in kind in such situations. Let us cast ourselves upon the mercy of God, and He will show that He is well able to take care of us in situations that seem impossible. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Daniel - William Burnett </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9261</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 3</span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-61805701964726955772023-05-01T06:29:00.042-04:002023-06-15T06:30:39.932-04:00Gems from May 2023<p><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and, let us run with patience the race that is set before us. Hebrews 12:1</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br />There are weights which are not sins in themselves, but which become distractions and stumbling blocks in our Christian progress. One of the worst of these is <u>despondency</u>. The heavy heart is indeed a weight that will surely drag us down in our holiness and usefulness. <br /><br />The failure of Israel to enter the land of promise began in murmuring, or, as the text in Numbers literally puts it, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"as it were murmured." (Numbers 14:2)</strong></span> Just a faint desire to complain and be discontented. This led on until it blossomed and ripened into rebellion and ruin. Let us give ourselves no liberty ever to doubt God or His love and faithfulness to us in everything and forever. <br /><br />We can set our will against doubt just as we do against any other sin; and as we stand firm and refuse to doubt, the Holy Spirit will come to our aid and give us the faith of God and crown us with victory.<br /><br />It is very easy to fall into the habit of doubting, fretting, and wondering if God has forsaken us and if after all our hopes are to end in failure. Let us refuse to be discouraged. Let us refuse to be unhappy. Let us <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"count it all joy" (James 1:2)</strong></span> when we cannot feel one emotion of happiness. Let us rejoice by faith, by resolution, by reckoning, and we shall surely find that God will make the reckoning real. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Selected</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9198</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Yet a little while, and He that shall come will come, and will not tarry (delay). Hebrews 10:37 </strong></span><br /><br />Self-sacrifice is always joy where there is grace in it. There is no such joy as self-devotedness. <br /><br />The soul is tested by afflictions as to how far self-will is active. . . . God searches us. By this means we learn on the one hand what we are, and on the other what God is for us in His faithfulness and daily care. We are weaned from the world, and our eyes become better able to discern and appreciate what is heavenly. <br /><br />All that makes heaven a home to Christ will make it a home to me. O come, Lord Jesus! <br /><br />Christ's perfection was not to act, but to suffer; in suffering there was a more entire surrender of Himself. <br /><br />In His eternal presence, how shall we feel that all our little sorrows and separations were but little drops by the way, to make us feel that we were not with Him, and when with Him what it is to be there.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Footprints for Pilgrims - J. N. Darby</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">We sing of the realms of the blest, that country so bright and so fair,<br />The glorious mansions of rest--but what must it be to be there?<br /><br />We tell of its freedom from sin, from sorrow, temptation, and care,<br />From trials without and within--but what must it be to be there? <br /><br />Do Thou, Lord, 'midst pleasure and woe, still for heaven our spirits prepare;<br />And shortly we also shall know and feel what it is to be there. </span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Mrs. E. Mills - 1829</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br />N.J.Hiebert - 9199</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." Psalm 139:23,24 </strong></span><br /><br />JOHN RUSKIN, in his <em>Ethics of the Dust</em>, answers the question, "What can mud become when God takes it in hand?" He replies, "Well, what is mud? First of all, mud is clay and sand, and usually soot and a little water." <br /><br />Then he says, "</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When God takes it in hand He transforms the clay into a sapphire, for a sapphire is just that; and the sand into an opal, for that is the analysis of an opal; and the soot into a diamond, for a diamond is just carbon which has been transformed by God; and the soiled water into a bright snow crystal, for that is what the crystals are when God takes the water up into the heaven and sends it back again."</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Let God have your life. He can do more with it than you can. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">D. L. Moody</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">DIAMONDS</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Diamonds are only chunks of coal that stuck to their jobs, you see;<br />If they'd petered out, as most of us do, where would the diamonds be? <br />It isn't the fact of making a start, it's the sticking that counts. I'll say,<br />It's the fellow that knows not the meaning of fall, but hammers and hammers away.<br />Whenever you think you've come to the end, and you're beaten as bad as can be,<br />Remember that diamonds are chunks of coal, that stuck to their jobs, you see. </strong></em><br /><em><strong>Virginia Call </strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. ( 2 Corinthians 5:17)<br /><br />For it is God which worketh in you both to will and do of HIs good pleasure. (Phil. 2:13)</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9200</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Consecrate yourselves to day to the Lord . . . that He may bestow upon you a blessing this day. </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Exodus 32:29 </strong></span><br /><br />Not a long time hence, not even tomorrow, but <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"this day."</strong></span> Do you not want a blessing? Is not your answer to your Father's "What wilt thou?" the same as Achsah's <span style="color: blue;"><em><strong>"Give me a blessing!" (Joshua 15:16-19)</strong></em></span> Here is His promise of just what you so want; will you not gladly fulfill His condition? <br /><br />A blessing shall immediately follow. He does not specify what it shall be; He waits to reveal it. You will find it such a blessing as you had not supposed could be for you--a blessing that shall verily make you rich, with no sorrow added--a blessing <span style="color: blue;"><em><strong>this</strong></em> <strong><em>day</em></strong></span>. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Proverbs 10:22)</strong></span> <br /><br /><em><strong>One the channel, deep and broad,<br />From the Fountain of the Throne,<br />Christ the Saviour, Son of God,<br />Blessings flow through Him alone.<br /><br />He, the Faithful and the True,<br />Brings us mercies ever new:<br />Till we reach His home on high,<br />God shall all your need supply.</strong></em></span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong> </strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Francis Ridley Havergal</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9201</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">And ye shall say unto the good-man of the house, The Master saith unto thee, where is the guest chamber, where I shall eat the passover with My disciples? And he shall show you a large upper room furnished: there make ready. And they went, and found as He had said unto them: and they made ready the passover. </span></strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Luke 22:11-13</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The two disciples, Peter and John, found things just as Jesus had told them. They had been directed to follow a man carrying a pitcher of water, which speaks to us of the Word of God and the Holy Spirit. The room to which this man brought them was all furnished. The disciples contributed nothing. They were asked to make ready for the Passover feast. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Jesus is Master of Ceremonies and orders all the details. The disciples are the honoured guests. Jesus, who is Lord of all, is in the midst. This <u>last Passover</u> feast certainly was a holy convocation and most solemn. It was the night of His betrayal. Jesus then, in the dignity of his Person, introduced something new--t<u>he Lord's Supper</u>. Only He had the authority to do this.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The disciples were asked to partake of the emblems, the bread and the wine, in loving memory of Him. Little did they enter into the significance of this occasion. Instead, we find them questioning among themselves who should be the greatest. This only exposed the deceitfulness of their hearts, yet His heart of love, though grieved did not change. <u>This privilege of remembering Him as we partake of the Lord's supper is our's today</u>. <br /><br />The Lord Himself is in the midst of those gathered unto His Name, and, as we lose sight of everything else, He will be exalted before our eyes. May we cherish this blessed privilege, bringing to Him the worship of our hearts and the praise of our lips as we remember what He has done for us. <br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"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)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Jacob Redekop</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9202</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Blessed are they that keep His testimonies, and that seek Him with the whole heart. Psalm 119:2</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">There are two things which characterize a man of the world, namely, his </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>home</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> and his </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>business.</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> But the order is, </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>from</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> his home </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">to</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> his business; and if his home be a happy one, he carries the fragrance of it with him to his business. Exactly so is it with the Christian; his </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"home"</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> is in heaven, his </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"business"</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> is to work for Christ on earth. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We once heard a preacher say of Dr. Bonar that, as one beheld him in the pulpit, and heard him preach, the impression created was that the Doctor had just come from the presence of God for a few moments to deliver a message, and that he intended to go back there immediately after he had delivered it. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The time is approaching, however, when we shall go "no more out", which, by the way, is one of the many differences between Eden and heaven--the final Home of the redeemed. </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The former had a way out, but not a way in</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">the later has a way in, but happily has no way out</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Fellow pilgrim to the realms of endless glory, let us look upwards and onwards--</span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"the coming of the Lord draweth nigh" (James 5:8)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Let us lay aside every weight;" Hebrews 12:1</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Let us forget those things which are behind" Philippians 3:13)</strong></span>--the weaknesses and the waverings, the failures and the follies; and <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Let us run with patience the race that is set before us. . . looking for that blessed hope and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ." (Hebrews 12:1-2, Titus 2:13)</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Pearl of Psalms - George Henderson </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9203</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>- Whom do <u>men</u> say that I the Son of man am?<br />- But whom say <u>ye</u> that I am?<br />- And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.<br />- Thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build My church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. Matthew 16:13-18</strong></span> <br /><br /><u>What is the rock</u>? Peter? Not a bit of it! <u>Christ is the rock</u>, and Peter is the stone put on the rock. That is a very good place to be. I never knew a stone yet that sunk through a rock. And I never knew anybody that was resting on the Rock of Ages, resting on Jesus, that was lost. Have you become a stone? How do you become a stone?<br /><br />Peter tells us: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"To whom coming, as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God, and precious; ye also, as lively </strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>(living)</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong> stones, are built up a spiritual house, an holy priesthood, to offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ" (1 Peter 2:4,5)</strong></span>. <br /><br />From that moment when Simon came to Jesus, and had his name changed to Peter, he became a stone. Though he did not then know what it was to be built in, he learned he was a stone, and soon after he knew what the building was of which he became an essential part.<br /><br />That, he learned, was the house of God, built upon the rock Christ. Peter was a stone, and so is every converted soul. <u>My brother in Christ, you are a stone</u>; and Christ would like you to know what it is to be a stone in His building. <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"To whom coming as unto a living stone...ye also, as lively stones, are built up a spiritual house."</strong></span> <br /><br /><em><strong><u>We become living stones as soon as we come in contact with Christ, who is the living stone</u> </strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Seekers For Light - W. T. P. Wolston, M.D.</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9204</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much. </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Luke 16:10 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Picture the side of a mountain, high, steep and rugged. Tearing down from its heights into the valley below is a stream, dashing, foaming and driving all before it--a mountain torrent. Follow the stream, as it reaches the valley and it flows into the grassy plain. What a change comes over it. It trickles peacefully on, watering the flowers and ferns, giving drink to the birds and insects--a quiet, calm stream. <u>It is the the same stream as the mountain torrent, yet oh, how changed</u>! </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">That stream is a very good representation of the two prophets, Elijah and Elisha, and of the work God gave them to do. Elijah is the stream on the mountainside, bearing down on injustice and sin by his stern rebukes and by his bold reproof. <br /><br />Elisha is like the stream on the grassy plain, going quietly and peacefully on his way, bringing joy, happiness and comfort to all around him. Elijah upholds the righteousness of God's law while Elisha displays God's grace. And yet, just as the stream was one stream, the same on the mountain as on the plain, so Elisha's work, although different from Elijah's was still the same work flowing from the same source. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">The same God used bold Elijah and gentle Elisha; both carried out His commands. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"There are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit." (1 Corinthians 12:4-6)</strong></span> How much happier we should be if we remembered this! We are not all called to do the same work. And God does not call us to do the work He has given to others. It may be He would have us be like the quiet stream, going on our way and doing our work for Him almost unobserved, but still working for Christ.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br />And who shall say that Elisha's work was less than Elijah's? In the Master's eyes that work is great which is done because of love to Him and in obedience to His directions. Even a cup of cold water wins a word of praise from his lips, if it is given in His name. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Mark 9:41)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Mrs. O. F. Walton </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9205</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">GOT ANY MOUNTAINS</span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which He saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever He saith. Mark 11:23 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Can we confidently claim and expect the conversion of our loved ones? Well, it must be in God's will. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"And this is the confidence that we have in Him, that, if we ask any thing according to His will, He heareth us." (1 John 5:14).</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Does He will the conversion of everyone? </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"the Lord is...not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance. (2 Peter 3:9)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Then He will remove this mountain, but we must expect the mountain to move. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, <u><em>believing</em></u>, ye shall receive." (Matthew 21:22)</strong></span> And the verse following our test says, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, <em><u>believe that ye receive them</u></em>, and ye shall have them." (Mark 11:24)</strong></span> <br /><br />We pray<em><strong> hoping</strong></em>, but hoping is not faith. Faith takes God's word for the deed and in its geography lists the mountains as "disappeared." </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">God any mountains you think are unsinkable? </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Vance Havner</span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Got any rivers you think are uncrossable?<br />Got any mountains, you cannot tunnel through?<br />God specializes in things thought impossible<br />And He can do what no other power can do.</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Oscar C. Eliason</span></strong><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 16px;">N.J.Hiebert - 9206</span></em></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Let your moderation be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. Be careful for nothing; but in everything 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 4:5-7) </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">However, God graciously overrules our folly and weakness, and while we are called upon to reap the fruits of our unbelieving and impatient ways, He takes occasion from them to teach our hearts still deeper lessons of His own tender grace and perfect wisdom. <br /><br />This, while it assuredly affords no warrant whatever for unbelief and impatience, does most wonderfully exhibit the goodness of our God, and comfort the heart even while we may be passing through the painful circumstances consequent upon our failure. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">God is above all; and, moreover, it is His special prerogative to bring good out of evil,--to make the eater yield meat, and the strong yield sweetness; <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Judges 14:14)</strong></span> and hence, while it is quite true that Jacob was compelled to be an exile from his father's roof in consequence of his own restless and deceitful acting, it is equally true that he never could have learned the meaning of <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Bethel"</strong></span> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em>(House of God)</em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Genesis 28:16-19)</strong></span>, had he been quietly at home. <br /><br />Thus the two sides of the picture are strongly marked in every scene of Jacob's history. It was when he was driven, by his own folly, from Isaac's house, that he was led to taste, in some measure, the blessedness and solemnity of "God's house." </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Notes - Genesis - C. H. Mackintosh </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9207</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. Philippians 4:6 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Many Christians live in a state of unbroken anxiety, and others fret and fume terribly. To be perfectly at peace amid the confusion and turbulence of daily life is a secret worth knowing. What is the use of worrying? It never made anybody strong; never helped anybody to do God's will; never made a way of escape for anyone out of perplexity. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Worry spoils lives which would otherwise be useful and beautiful. Restlessness, anxiety, and care are absolutely forbidden by our Lord, who said: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Therefore take no thought, saying, what shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (Matthew 6:31)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />He does not mean that we are not to take forethought and that our life is to be without plan or method; but that we are not to worry about these things. People know you live in the realm of anxious care by the lines on you face, the tones of your voice, the minor key in your life, and the lack of joy in your spirit. <br /><br />Scale the heights of a life abandoned to God, then you will look down on the clouds beneath your feet. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Darlow Sargent</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9208</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>My Lord and my God. John 20:28</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">These word were recorded after Thomas realized he was actually seeing the Lord Jesus in resurrection. The Lord had just pointed out the marks of the wounds He received on the cross. Thomas spoke out in awe, in humility and in worship. </span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong style="font-size: 16px;">My Lord</strong></span><strong style="font-size: 16px;"> -</strong> Two words that dramatize the relationship between the believer and the Lord, based on all He accomplished in dying. It encompasses the love we have towards Him in response to His towards us. It takes in our standing before God on the basis of the shed blood. It recognizes His role as our Good Shepherd. And it includes the promise of eternal life in the Father's home, with the Lord. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;">My God </span>-</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> here we have our appreciation of our intimacy with Jesus Christ as one Person of the Holy Trinity; become a man so that He could die as the perfect sacrifice for sin and sins. It expresses the glory He had from a past eternity, as well as His acquired glory as the sin-bearer. It alludes to the removal of distance between sinners and God, our Father. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed </strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>(John 20:29)</strong></span>.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> Thomas' natural reasoning process kicked in. He doubted the Lord's bodily resurrection could be possible. We often do the same; letting our natural minds question the clear statements of scripture. We may not actively doubt, but our thoughts and actions will betray us. In order to be saved, we had to come to the realization that the Lord was a real Saviour, that our sins formed the barrier, and we needed to simply "Trust and Obey". And all that without actually seeing the Lord with our natural eyes. So why not just continue that pattern; nothing about the Lord has changed or ever will.<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever.</strong></span></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong> (Heb. 13:8)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Believing is a continuous process, needing to be renewed every morning. The scriptures reinforce the strong beliefs that date from the day of our salvation; continuing to grow, enlarge and mature in us as we read and think about them. Another valuable assist is our regular entry into the presence of the Lord, especially when we meet together with others of like precious faith to remember Him in the circumstances of His death, as He has asked us to do. Each time, we leave fortified for the week ahead. Each such occasion draws from our heart and lips thanksgiving and praise; well summed up in the expression, </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong>My Lord and my God</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Lorne Perry </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9209</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>They that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick. I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. Luke 5:31-32 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Today there is a growing concern over sickness and diseases caused by pollution, stress, and life-styes. Also, older physicians are retiring from their practices, in part, because of the high cost of malpractice insurance. In our verses, the Lord emphasized His role in healing illness that is spiritual, not physical, that is, <em><strong>"sin-sickness."</strong></em> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">However, very few people like to acknowledge their condition as sinners and so they neglect to seek a remedy. That was true in Jeremiah's day when he lamented, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"is there no balm...no physician?" (Jeremiah 8:22)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> When people do seek a remedy, they may chose an ineffective one--Egypt was told </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"in vain shalt thou use many medicines;" (Jeremiah 46:11)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">People are choosing an ineffective remedy when they choose good works as a remedy--nothing we can do will ever cure the result of even one of our many sins </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Isaiah 64:6)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. To be effective in treating our physical maladies, our treating physician must not only diagnose our malady correctly but must also prescribe the proper remedy. The same is true of spiritual illness. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Our Lord Jesus is pictured as the Great Physician. And what a physician he was! The remedy which this great Physician offers for your sin-sickness flowed from His pierced side--<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin". (1 John 1:7)</strong></span> . The good news is that belief in what this symbolizes cures sin-sickness: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believes." (Romans 1:16)</strong></span>.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Christ was given so that <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life." (John 3:15)</strong></span>. But, to be cured we have to come to Him! <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"And ye will not come to Me, that ye might have life." </strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>(John 5:40)</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">. <em><strong>L. L. Winters</strong></em> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9210</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world. John 16:33. </strong></span><br /><br />Once when Charles Garrett was preaching to a large congregation about the mysterious troubles that often come to the </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Christian man or woman, he was saying that we are not exempt from trouble; <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth." (Hebrews 12:6)</strong></span> and some converted men had more trouble after their conversion than before. <br /><br />He had know Christian men who were steeped in trouble--surrounded by it; trouble to the right, trouble to the left, trouble in front, trouble behind. Then an old man in the gallery, who had served God for seventy years, shouted, "Glory be to God, it's always open at the top." <br /><br />I love the knowledge that has come through sorrows and trials and pardoned sins; of a love that has never wearied towards me, and is fresher than the freshest dew of youth, and mellower than the ripest tenderness of age. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us." (1John 4:10)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Angels in White - Russell Elliott</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9211</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>ALL YOUR ANXIETY<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you. <br />1 Peter 5:7</span></strong>.</span></span></span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-align: left;"><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Upon the Lord your burden cast, to Him bring all your care;<br />He will sustain and hold you fast, and give thee strength to bear. </span></strong></span></span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><b><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; text-align: justify;" /></b></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Worry, anxiety, and depression have been the subject of many discourses. The reason of course, is that these conditions are so common to everyone. Many descriptions of these times have been given:</span></span></span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-align: left;"><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> - Worry is nothing more than borrowed trouble.<br /> - Worry is unbelief in disguise.<br /> - Worry does not relieve tomorrow of its stress--it merely empties today of its strength. <em><strong>(Unknown)</strong></em></span></span></span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-align: left;"><b><i><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; text-align: justify;" /></i></b><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> - The beginning of anxiety is the end of faith, and the beginning of true faith is the end of anxiety.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong>George Müller</strong></em></span></span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span></span></span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; font-size: x-large; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Is there a heart o'er-bound by sorrow? Is there a life weighed down by care?<br />Come to the cross-each burden bearing, all your anxiety-leave it there.<br /><br />No other friend so keen to help you; no other friend so quick to hear;<br />No other place to leave your burden; no other one to hear your prayer.<br /><br />Come then at once-delay no longer! Heed His entreaty kind and sweet;<br />You need not fear a disappointment-You shall find peace at the mercy seat.</strong></span></span></span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><b><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; text-align: justify;" /></b></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Chorus:</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">All your anxiety, all your care, bring to the mercy seat-leave it there; never a burden He cannot bear, never a friend like Jesus! </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;">Edward Henry Joy, 1871-1941 </strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></span></span></div><div><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: black; font-family: "Times New Roman"; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: large; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9212</span></span></span></div></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">You have perhaps heard the story of the child who was keeping the best meat on his plate for his little dog. His mother asked him rather sharply, "Johnnie, why don't you eat up your dinner?" "I'm keeping it for Fido, mummie." <br /><br />"Nonsense, eat your dinner at once, and you can collect the scraps on the plates after dinner for Fido." <br /><br />The child did as he was told, and with tears running down his cheeks, he was heard to say, "Fido dear, I wanted to give you a </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">sacrifice</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, but its only a </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">collection</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">." <br /><br />A sacrifice costs something, often a collection costs next to nothing. Johnnie's sacrifice to Fido would have been <span style="color: blue;"><strong>'a sacrifice of joy.' (Psalm 27:6)</strong></span><br /><em><strong>Love </strong></em>is the secret. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Sacrifices of Joy - Meditations on Philippians - G. Christopher Willis</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9213</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>And Moses said unto the people, fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will show to you today: for the Egyptians whom ye have seen to day, ye shall see them again no more forever. Exodus 14:13 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The Egyptians thought they had Israel in a trap, when they saw them by the seaside. When they are out of danger, behold they are in a wilderness, where nothing is to be had for back or belly, and yet here they shall live forty years, without trade or tillage, without begging or robbing of any of the neighbour nations; they shall not be beholden to them for a penny in their way. What cannot almighty power do to provide for His people. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"The Lord is my portion, saith my soul; therefore will I hope in Him" (Lamentation 3:24)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. Have you not chosen Him for your portion? Do you not look for a heaven to enjoy Him in forever? And can any dungeon of outward affliction be so dark, that this hope will not enlighten? He that has laid a portion in heaven for you will lay out surely all the expenses that you need in the way forward. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Remember how often God has overcome your fears, and proved your unbelief a deception. Has he not knocked at your door with inward comfort and outward deliverance, when you had put out the candle of hope, giving up looking for Him, and been ready to lay down on the bed of despair? <br /><br />Were you never so sad, the storm of your fears so great that the anchor of hope coming home left you with misgivings and despairing thoughts, as if now your everlasting night had come, and no morning supply expected by you? Yet even then our God proved you wrong, by an unlooked for surprise of mercy, which He brought sweetly in upon you? </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Christian in Complete Armour - William Gurnall (1616 - 1679) </span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9214</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">THE PROTECTION OF DANIEL</span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Thy God whom thou servest continually, He will deliver thee. Daniel 6:16</span></strong><br /><br />The time came when, regretfully, the king was required to execute the sentence, but as Daniel was brought forward to be cast into the den of lions, Darius was there with words of hope and assurance for Daniel.<br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Daniel 6:16)</strong></span>. <br /><br />What a testimony from a heathen monarch to the integrity of a man who had been wrongfully accused and was now being wrongfully executed. Darius realized that Daniel had access to powers beyond the earthly, and that if God so desired, He would deliver him. <br /><br />The king then spent a sleepless night, and early in the morning he was down at the den. There he learned that God had wrought a miracle on behalf of His servant. God had shut the mouths of these ravenous beasts, and they had done Daniel no harm. Daniel was them removed from the den and his persecutors were cast in instead. Before they reached the bottom of the den, the lions were upon them and broke all their bones in pieces.<br /><br />In a previous scene, we saw Daniel's three friends, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego cast into the fiery furnace. We learned then that God may not necessarily deliver us from the fire, but He will be with us in it and preserve us. <br /><br />So it is here. God could have stopped these men from putting Daniel into the den of lions, but He didn't. The result was that greater glory was brought to God than if Daniel had been delivered from ever going into the den. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Daniel - William Burnett </span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9215</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Now there stood by the cross of Jesus His mother...when Jesus therefore saw His mother, and the disciple standing by, whom He loved, He saith unto His mother, Woman, behold thy son! Then saith He to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home. John 19:25-27</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We scarcely know which to admire most--the faithfulness, the devotedness of these dear women, and the beloved young disciple, or the tender, compassionate love of the blessed Lord Jesus Christ and His consideration for the dear mother that bore Him. He recalls the prophecy, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Yea, a sword shall pierce through thy own soul also," (Luke 2:35)</strong></span><br /><br />He recalls the prophecy, and He knows that sword is indeed piercing her mother heart as she sees her Son suffering in such awful agony hanging there upon the nails, and He would have her know that He is concerned about her and anxious to relieve her agonies. <br /><br />He points her to John and says, <strong><span style="color: blue;">"Behold thy son!"</span></strong> and to John He says, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Behold thy mother!" And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own home.</strong></span>" During the last of her sojourn here on earth, John became to her as a tender, loving son, and she to him as a loving mother.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Gospel of John - H. A. Ironside </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9216</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Wherefore we receiving a kingdom which cannot be moved, let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. <u>Hebrews 12:28</u><br />Then said the Lord unto me; This gate shall be shut, it shall not be opened, and no man shall enter in by it; because the Lord, the God of Israel, hath entered in by it therefore it, shall be shut. <u>Ezekiel 44:2</u></strong></span><br /><br />This came to me this morning as a word not only for the gate referred to here, but also for everything. This service, whatever it may be, this that I have to offer, <u>all I am, and have, and want to be--it is for the Prince</u>. <br /><br /><em><strong>"To each is given a bag of tools, an hourglass,<br />And a book of rules;<br />And each must build ere his work be done,<br />A stumbling block or a steppingstone."</strong></em><br /><br />- Our bag of <u>tools</u>--<u>our body</u> with all its various powers, the "tools"<br />- God has given us to use; the <u>hourglass</u>--<u>Time</u>; <br />- The book of <u>rules</u>--our <u>Bible</u>;<br />- The stumbling block--that which will <u>hinder others</u>; <br />- The steppingstone--that which will <u>help them nearer Heaven</u>.<br />- So far all is clear. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><u>Is this clear too</u>? We cannot build both stumbling block and steppingstone. We must chose which we will build. Once built it stands; we cannot pull it down and begin over again. Is not this an awful truth? Think of what it would be if, when the day is over and the work is done, we looked at it and saw a stumbling block. God save us from that. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Every true, loving, faithful thought, word, deed, helps to build the steppingstone. Every untrue, unloving, unfaithful thought, word, deed, helps to build the stumbling block over which others will fall. God help us all to build steppingstones. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Thou Givest...They Gather - Amy Carmichael</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9217</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><u>We must keep looking for our Lord's return</u>.</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. </strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Jude 21</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The reference here is without any doubt to that advent of our Saviour for which we are bidden to look. The New Testament is full of teaching about this blessed hope, and we lose much if we fail to cherish it in our hearts. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Over 300 times is it spoken of in the later portion of the inspired Word, and the place which it occupies there, indicates the place which it should hold in our thinking. The central ordinance of the Church--the <u>remembrance of the Lord's death</u>--is described in </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>1 Corinthians 11:23-26</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. <br /><br />That great passage is both commemorative and anticipative; it directs us historically to the night of His betrayal, and prophetically to the day of His return. The last six words of verse 26--<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"the Lord's death till He come"</strong></span>--tell the whole story. <br /><br />The first three of these words point us back to <u>the cross</u>; the last three point us on to <u>His coming</u>. Taken together, the six words are like a beautiful rainbow, the one end of which dips in the sufferings of Christ, and the other, in the glory that is to follow</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>.<br /><br />"And thus that dark betrayal-night, <br />With His next advent we unite,<br />By one blest chain of loving rite,<br />Until He come." </strong></em></span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;">The Best is Yet to Be - Henry Durbanville</strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9218</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And Jacob dreamed, and behold a ladder set up on the earth and the top of it reached to heaven...<br /><br />And, behold, the Lord stood above it and said... <br /><br />I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whether thou goest and will bring thee again into this land...<br /><br />And Jacob vowed a vow, saying, if God will be with me, and will keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat and raiment to put on, so that I come again to my father's house in peace; then shall the Lord be my God... (Genesis 28:10-22)</strong></span><br /><br />Observe, <span style="color: blue;">"</span></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><u><strong><em><span style="font-size: 17px;">If</span></em></strong></u></span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>God will be with me." </strong></span>Now, the Lord had just said, emphatically, <strong><span style="color: blue;">"</span></strong></span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 17px;">I</span></span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: blue;"> <u><em>am</em></u> with thee, and <u><em>will keep thee in all places</em></u> whether thou goest, and will bring thee again into this land," </span></strong>etc. And yet poor Jacob's heart cannot get beyond an "<em><strong><u>if</u></strong></em>;" nor, in its thoughts of God's goodness, can it rise higher than <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"bread to eat, and raiment to put on."</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Such were the thoughts of one who had just seen the magnificent vision of the ladder reaching from earth to heaven, with the Lord standing above, and promising an enumerable seed and an everlasting possession. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Jacob was evidentially unable to enter into the reality and fullness of God's thoughts. He measured God by himself, and thus utterly failed to apprehend Him. In short, Jacob had not yet really got to the end of himself; and hence he had not really begun with God. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Notes on Genesis - C. H. Mackintosh </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9219</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>What shall we do unto thee, that the sea may be calm unto us? for the sea wrought, and was tempestuous. Jonah 1:11</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The matter is being pressed close home to Jonah now. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"What shall we do unto thee?"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Well Jonah knew that the awful storm about them, every moment getting worse and worse, was all his fault. Though Jonah had not </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"feared exceedingly"</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> when he ought to have done so, now he began to find out that </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">God is not mocked, and that it is no light thing to try and trifle with Him</em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">I suppose that most of us are not in any position to say very many words of blame to Jonah. Have not most of us had to learn the same bitter lesson? How natural to the heart of man is the thought, and how eager the enemy is to tell us, that we may sin with impunity and "get away with it." No, beloved fellow-Christian, whether it was Jonah, or whether it is you or I, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"God is not mocked." "Be sure your sin will find you out" (Numbers 32:23)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Sin will surely bring bitter, bitter fruit. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"And he said unto them, Take me up, and cast me forth into the sea; so shall the sea be calm unto you: for I know that because of me this great tempest is upon you."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Brave Jonah! One cannot help but admire and love this man, in spite of all his failure. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">How many of us would have dared to pronounce so clearly our own death sentence, and so fully and frankly acknowledged our own guilt, and its consequence, without a single word of excuse or self justification? He now plainly answered their third question, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"For whose cause is the evil upon us?"</strong> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When we consider that it must surely have been Jonah himself, who wrote this book (under the direct inspiration of the Spirit of God), a book which has not a syllable to his own credit, we can not help but honour this brave honest man. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lessons from Jonah The Prophet - G. C. Willis</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9220</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>The Lord is my Shepherd. Psalm 23:1</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Someone has said that the twenty-third is the sweetest of all the Psalms: </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">first learned, oftenest repeated, longest remembered</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. The simple words of which is composed "</span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">touch, inspire, comfort us</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, not as an echo from three thousand years ago, but as the voice of a living friend. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The child repeats them at his mother's knees; the scholar expends on them his choicest learning; the church lifts them to heaven in the many-voiced chorus. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">They fall like music on the sick man's ear and heart; they cheer and encourage the dying Christian as he enters "</span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><u>the shadow of death</u>.</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">" </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It speaks of the Shepherd Who gave His life for the sheep </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">(verse 1)</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; of the green pastures into which He leads us for our own sake </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">(verse 2)</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; and of the paths of righteousness into which He leads us for His name's sake </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">(verse 3)</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It tells us that the valley of the shadow, although full of deadly peril, is nevertheless an avenue to God </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">(verse 4)</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; of the fact that it is possible to have festivity in the midst of conflict </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">(verse 5)</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; and of the two shining ones--</span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Goodness and Mercy"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">--who have come from the upper sanctuary to conduct the flock of God to the heavenly land </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">(verse 6)</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In other words we have in this brief section of the Word: the Person </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">(verse 1)</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; the provision </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">(verse 2)</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; the pathway </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">(verse 3)</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; the peril; </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">(verse 4)</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; the preparation </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">(verse 5)</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; and the prospect </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">(verse 6)</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">May we all search more and more into its marvellous depths, enjoy increasingly its matchless beauty, and experience, through all life's future days, its perennial power. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Pearl of Psalms - George Henderson</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9221</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 16px;">I WON'T BE HERE LONG</span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. James 4:14</strong></span> Even the hour of keenest pain or months of sad bereavement will one day seem but a fleeting moment. Time is relative. </span><br /><br />A few minutes in a medical examination may seem an hour while a young suitor's evening with his girl friend may seem but a few minutes. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. . . " (2 Corinthians 4:17)</strong></span>. <br /><br />Our threescore and ten years are short <strong><span style="color: blue;">"for it is soon cut off, and we fly away." (Psalm 90:10)</span></strong>. We won't be here long and we shall grieve that we misused our days and even the best shall regret that they did not spend them better. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">All the Days - Vance Havner</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />"But for a moment this valley of sorrows,<br />Darkened with shadows and heavy with sighs;<br />Bright dawns the morrow, the glorious morrow! <br />Faint not! the Lord shall call us to arise! <br /><br />"Far more exceeding" the heavenly glory--<br />Sufferings here with it cannot compare. <br />Glory eternal the guerdon for anguish--<br />Radiant crowns, for the thorns, over there! <br /><br />Temporal things like a vapour shall vanish; <br />Higher than earth lies the land of our choice;<br />Upward we press to the home there eternal;<br />Jesus the Lord we behold and rejoice! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">G. C. Stebbins</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9222</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>But think on me when it shall be well with thee. Genesis 40:14</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In many ways Joseph is a remarkable type of Christ: hated by his brothers, rejected and sold to the Egyptians, eventually exalted as Prime Minister over Egypt; a shadow of the sufferings and glories of the Lord Jesus--this we well know. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In the scene described here, Joseph was absolutely innocent of any crime yet had been languishing in prison for eleven long years. He had not been idle, however, and the warden of the prison put Joseph in charge over all the other prisoners. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">As much as Joseph was innocent, it is probable that both the cupbearer and the chief baker were guilty of some infraction against Pharaoh. As the scene unfolds, it came about that each of these had a dream and came to Joseph for the interpretation </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(40:8)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. How encouraging are Joseph's words to them: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Do not interpretations belong to God? tell me them, I pray you."</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Joseph's interpretation came to pass exactly as he predicted. Before the cupbearer was restored to his position, Joseph had one request: </span><strong style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"</strong><em style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;">But think on me when it shall be well with thee</em><strong style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">...and make mention of me unto </strong><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Pharaoh</strong></span></span><strong style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">" (40:14-15)</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"<u>Yet did not the chief butler remember Joseph</u>." (40:23)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. Eventually this wrong was corrected and Joseph came to the cupbearer's mind as he stood before Pharaoh. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The Lord Jesus, One much greater than Joseph, on the night in which He was betrayed said, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"This do in remembrance of Me" (1 Corinthians 11:24)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. How touching that the Lord requests this of us. On the dark night of Satan's power, and in light of His coming sufferings, Christ desired that from that time forward we would observe this memorial. May we never be like the cupbearer and forget, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Christ also suffered for us." (1 Peter 2:21)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Brian Reynolds</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9223</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Behold I show you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed. (1 Corinthians 15:51-52) </strong></span><br /><br />This is a very comforting passage! The question, however, is often asked. Will ALL believers be caught up when the Lord comes? Some teachers of note believe that only certain <em>deserving</em> saints will be caught up, and undeserving ones left behind. But this passage makes it very plain. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"We shall ALL be changed.</strong></span>" <br /><br />"Yes," says someone, "but may that not be true that in the end all shall be changed, though some may be raised at first and others later on?" NO, the passage is clear not only that ALL shall be changed, but <em><strong>ALL at the same moment</strong></em>. We are told it is to take place in a moment, and that moment is defined as the <u><strong>twinkling of an eye</strong></u>. There can be no doubt as to this passage. <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>1 Thessalonians 4:13-18</strong></span> is a very precious passage enlarging on <span style="color: blue;"><strong>1 Corinthians 15</strong></span>, which particularly is taken up with the resurrection side of the question. In <span style="color: blue;"><strong>1 Thessalonians 4</strong></span>, however, we get outlined the procedure that will take place. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God."</strong></span> <br /><br />The Lord HIMSELF shall come and shout the quickening word. The first to feel the power of it will be the sleeping saints, all those that are Christ's at His coming. That surely will include the Old Testament saints, and all the Lord's during the Christian era, indeed all who are under the shelter of His precious blood. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Why I Believe the Bible - A. J. Pollock</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9224</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><em>THE UNFINISHED SONG</em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in His own blood...be glory and dominion forever and ever." (Revelation 1:5,6) "And no man could learn that song but the...redeemed from, the earth"-- </span></span></strong></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><span style="color: blue;">(Revelation 14:3)</span> </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 15px;">When the heavenly hosts shall gather and the heavenly courts shall ring With the rapture of the ransomed, and the new song they shall sing, <br />Though they come from every nation, every kindred, every race, None can ever learn that music till he knows God's pardoning grace.<br /><br />All those vast eternities to come will never be too long To tell the endless story and to sing the endless song;<br />"Unto Him who loved us and who loosed us from our sin"-- We shall finish it in heaven, but 'tis here the words begin.<br /><br />"Unto Him who loved us"--we shall sing it o'er and o'er, "Unto Him who loved us"--we shall love it more and more; <br /> "Unto Him who loved us"--song of songs most sweet and dear; But, if we would kno</span><span style="font-size: 15px;">w it yonder, we must learn the music here. <br /><br />Here, where there was none to save us, none to help us, none to care, Here, where Jesus came to seek us, lost in darkness and despair,<br />Here, where on that cross of anguish He redeemed us from our sins, Here, where first we knew the Saviour, it is here the song begins.<br /><br />Here, amid the toils and trials of this fleeting earthly life, Here, amid the din and turmoil of this troubled earthly strife, Here, in suffering and sorrow, here,* in weariness and wrong; <br />We shall finish it in heaven, but 'tis here we start the song.</span><br />The Unfinished Song - Annie Johnson Flint - (To be continued)</strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">N.J.Hiebert - 9225</span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 28</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin. 1 John 1:7</strong></span><br /><br />"Unto Him who loves us"--we must sing it ever day,<br />"Unto who loves us" who is Light and Guide and Way;<br />"Unto Him who loves us"--and who holds us very dear;<br />If we'd know it over yonder, we must learn the music here. <br /><br />There will be no silent voices in that ever-blessed throng; <br />There will be no faltering accents in that hallelujah song;<br />Like the sound of many waters shall the mighty paean be<br />When the Lord's redeemed shall praise Him for the grace that set them free.<br /><br />But 'tis here the theme is written; it is here we tune our tongue;<br />It is here the first glad notes of joy with stammering lips are sung. <br />It is here the first faint echoes of that chorus reach our ear; <br />We shall finish it in heaven, but our hearts begin it here. <br /><br />"Unto Him who loved us"--to the Lamb for sinners slain,<br />"Unto Him who loved us"--evermore the joyful strain;<br />"Unto Him who loved us"--full and strong and sweet and clear; <br />But, if we would know it yonder, we must learn to sing it here. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 11px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Annie Johnson Flint's Best Known Poems </strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9226</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them. 1 Timothy 4:16.</strong></span><br /><br />Has reading the Word of God become a burden? Are we left indifferent or getting nothing out of it? Should we perhaps replace it by lighter reading? But the Lord says: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"If ye continue in my My Word, then are ye My disciples indeed; (John 8:31)</strong></span> More and more we cut short our prayer times. Family and activities of all kinds and even service for the Lord have become more important. But what say the Scriptures? <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving;" (Colossians 4:2)</strong></span>. As those widows in <span style="color: blue;"><strong>1 Timothy 5:5 we also should continue in supplications and prayers night and day."</strong></span> Why maintain certain doctrines received with conviction earlier in our Christian life? <br /><br />One or two <em>"small compromises"</em> could get us closer to other Christians friends in order to have practical fellowship. But this could be falling in to Satan's snare: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He was a murderer from the beginning, and abode not in the truth, because there is no truth in him. (John 8:44)</strong></span>. <br /><br />Let us imitate the first Christians who <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine..." (Acts 2:42)</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;">.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Acts13:43)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Paul and Barnabus...persuaded them to continue in the grace of God. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Ye are they which have continued with Me in My temptations." (Luke 22:28)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Will He have a similar comment on our perseverance when we appear before Him? </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>E. R. Pigeon</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9227</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 30</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Seek the Lord, and His strength: seek His face evermore." Psalm 105:4 </strong></span><br /><br />The first words of Psalm 105 are jubilant commands that, when all goes well with us, seem so gloriously easy to obey. It would be hard to do anything else. <br /><br />But the Spirit knew that there would be different hours, hours when the natural foundations of courage, hope, peace and joy would be quicksand under our feet. And so He pauses, as it were, to remind us of our Strength, the Rock of our hearts. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Seek <em>His</em> face</strong></span>. <br /><br />Someone has written, that when we reach heaven, "then shall none of us be stirred to say: Lord, if it had been thus, then it had been well; but we shall all say with one voice: Lord, blessed may Thou be, for it is thus; it is well. <br /><br />Moreover He that shall be our bliss when we are there is our Keeper while we are here; and the last word of Revelation is the same as the first: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Revelation 21:7,2:7)</strong></span> Thou shalt not be overcome. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />He said not: <em><strong>"thou shalt not be tempested, thou shalt not be travailed, thou shalt not be distressed;"</strong></em> but He said <em><strong>"Thou shalt not be overcome."</strong></em> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Whispers of His Power - Amy Carmichael</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9228</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 31</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Nay...but if one went unto them from the dead (to his five brothers) they will repent...if they hear not Moses and the prophets neither will they be persuaded though one rose from the dead. Luke 16:28-31 <br /> </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">A child can understand the Holy Scriptures, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"and that from a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus." (2 Timothy 3:15)</strong></span> There is not one beneath the canopy of God's heaven, who possesses a copy of the holy Scriptures, who is not solemnly responsible before God for the use he makes of them. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">If professing Christians were split up into ten thousand times as many sects as they are; if they were ten thousand times as inconsistent as they are; if schools and doctors of divinity were ten thousand times more conflicting than they are--still the word to each possessor of the Bible is, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"You have Moses and the prophets, and the New Testament, hear them."</strong></span> <br /><br />Oh! that we could persuade the unconverted, the unawakened, the unbelieving reader to think of these things, to think of them now, to ponder them, in the very hidden depths of his moral being, to give them his heart's undivided attention, ere it be too late. <br /><br />We contemplate, with ever-deepening horror, the condition of a lost soul in hell--of one opening his eyes, in that place of endless torment, to the tremendous fact that God is against him and against him forever; that all hope is gone; that nothing can ever bridge the chasm that separates the region of the lost from the heaven of the redeemed; that <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"there is a great gulf <em>FIXED</em>." Luke 16:26)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"> <br />The Lord's Coming - C. H. Mackintosh</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">God's house is filling fast, yet there is room!<br />Some guest will be the last, "yet there is room!"<br />Yes! soon salvation's day to you will pass away,<br />Then grace no more will say--"yet there is room!"</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">(G. W. Frazer)</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9229</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">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</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Two Christian women were talking together. One said to the other, "I have got a very comforting text, which helps me much; <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"What time I am afraid, I will trust in Thee." (Psalm 56:3)</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The other Christian replied,<span style="color: blue;"><strong> "I have a better text than that: I will trust and not be afraid' " (Isaiah -12:2)</strong></span> Now we would not compare one text with another where all are from God's Word, and are the expression of His people's confidence in Him, and as such are comforting. <br /><br />There is the infirmity of human nature, and in this our great High Priest has sympathy. No one need chide himself if a certain amount of fear and apprehension possesses the heart during those times of stress, if only in the fear there is a turning to the Lord to find a refuge in Him. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Psalm 56:3)</strong></span>. <br /><br />Happy is the one who has this experience, happier still if this leads to a deeper acquaintance with God, so that in quiet confidence in Him they can really say, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I will trust and not be afraid."</strong></span> For let us remember: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee: because he trusteth in Thee." (Isaiah 26:3) </strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">A. J. Pollock</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9230</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Then cometh Simon Peter following him, and went into the sepulchre, and seeth the linen clothes lie, and the napkin that was about His head, not lying with the linen clothes, but wrapped together in a place by itself...and he saw, and believed. (John 20:6-8)</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The seemingly unimportant detail of the linen clothes, that wrapped the body of our Lord, being left in the tomb, though unnoticed by the women, was a convincing proof of resurrection to both Peter and John. It was not merely the fact that the linen was there, although that was a matter to arrest attention; but the place of the linen of the body, separated from the napkin of the head, and the way the linen was wrapped together--these forced on the observant disciples the conviction of their Lord's resurrection.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Had the body of Christ been carried from the grave, linen clothes would have gone with Him. However, had the hand of man removed the linen from both body and head, all would have been thrown on a heap in the grave. No human hand could have folded the linen so. What purpose would any person have to attempt to wrap the linen in this way even if it had been possible? </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Those linen clothes were a miracle. Both Peter and John knew without a doubt what they meant. The body that was wrapped in those garments had disappeared from them without disturbing them. Resurrection had taken place. Although Peter and John did not yet know the scripture that He must rise again, those linen clothes convinced them absolutely that their Lord rose from the tomb. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(John 20:9)</strong></span>. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Our Lord Jesus Christ - A Plant of Renown Leonard Sheldrake</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9231</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And when she (Jochebed) could not longer hide him (Moses) she took for him an ark of bullrushes...and laid it in the flags by the river's brink. And his sister (Miriam) stood afar off, to wit what would be done to him. (Exodus 2:3-4) </strong></span><br /><br />The angels could hardly have had a more interesting sight than they had when, more than 3000 years ago, they watched little Miriam minding the baby. If they only could have known who the baby that lay in that rude cradle was to become and what stupendous work he was to accomplish!</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">But poor little Miriam, the Hebrew slave-child, probably felt only a horrible dread when the retinue of the princess of Egypt approached and a suffocating fright when the crying baby was drawn forth from his hiding place by the people who had decreed his death. Moses' parents were godly people, and evidently they recognized God's special grace in giving them this child. No doubt Miriam was quite thankful to observe that the princess was evidently pleased with the child.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">This is the moment which Miriam seizes to run forward and ask the princess whether she would like her to fetch a Hebrew woman to nurse the baby for her. Do so, says the princess, and the girl hurries away to bring the baby's own mother. The courage and resourcefulness shown by Miriam, together with her devotion to a task monotonous and dangerous gives an impression that she was being taught by God for the part she had yet to fill. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">We do not usually rate the services of a nursemaid very high, but still she may be, like Miriam, doing work of enormous importance in guarding the beginning of some God-inspired life. Yes, Miriam may have thought she was only minding the baby, when all the time she was watching over the destinies of the planet. When the princess had received the infant, most watchers would have quietly gone away home quite satisfied, but Miriam clinches the nail and makes it a rivet.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Shall I go and call to thee a nurse..." Exodus 2:7-9)</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Christian - J. C. Bayley</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9232</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>O Lord, my strength, and my fortress, and my REFUGE in the day of affliction. Jeremiah 16:19 <br /><br />In the fear of the Lord is strong confidence: and His children shall have a place of REFUGE. Proverbs 14:26<br /><br />God is known . . . for a REFUGE. Psalm 48:3</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Let us walk with Him, lean on Him, cling to Him; </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He will uphold e'en the weakest that live; </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Glory to God! for with strength He does gird us; </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Power and might to the faint He does give; </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Here in this bulwark our faith finds a REFUGE, </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Ne'er may we measure its breadth and its length;</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When all the arms that we leaned on have failed us, </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Praises to Him, for His joy is our strength. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9233</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 5</span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-23617022876152749882023-04-01T06:30:00.049-04:002023-05-07T08:41:47.327-04:00Gems from April 2023<p><strong style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in Me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for <u>without Me ye can do nothing</u>. John 15:5 </strong></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">How forgetful we are of that! The preacher goes out to face his audience to whom he has preached so frequently through the years, perhaps often from the very same passage of Scripture. He goes out with self-confidence, forgetting the need of prayer, of being before God for a time of heart searching lest anything, any root of bitterness, might have come up which might hinder the work of the Spirit of God. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He rushes to the platform and delivers his message--but his message had no power because he was not consciously abiding in the living Vine. A young preacher had been called to preach and had much confidence in his own ability. The people were watching him as he entered. <br /><br />He read his text, but his whole message went from him. He read the text again, and still he could not recall. He tried the third time, "I want to read my text again," hoping his message would come back. But all was blank so far as the message was concerned, and looking at the audience he said, "I am sorry; but I can't speak to you this morning."<br /><br />Down the stairs he went with bowed head and broken step. At the close an old man came to him and said, <strong><em>"Laddie, if you had gone up the way you came down, you might have come down the way you went up!</em></strong>" <br /><br />It is so easy to be self-confident and to believe that because we have done it before, of course we can do it again, and so we forget the need of constantly abiding, of ever being before Him in communion. And it is the same in every detail of Christian life.<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Abide in Me and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in Me." (John 15:4.)</strong></span> </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Gospel of John - H. A. Ironside</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9168</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>OVERCOMING FAITH</strong></span></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. 1 John 5:4 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The storms of life come and go. The winter weather is but for a short season. The dark squalls and gusting winds are passing phenomena. When they are gone, the rainbow of God's blessing and reassurance reminds us of His presence. The unique peace which He alone can provide for His people pervades our spirits. <br /><br />And the rest He promises us endures as our legacy. All of us have winter weather. We face those formidable interludes in life when everything looks dark and depressing. <br /><br />We all have times when our days are strewn with the apparent wreckage of wrong choices and derelict decisions. The best of men and women know what it is to be stripped down to the bedrock of sheer survival. <br /><br />Yet amid all such storms what a consolation to know our Father has His strong hand upon us for our own good. What an assurance to recognize that Christ can be counted on to control the final outcome of our apparent calamities. What a strength to see His gracious Spirit bring great glory and beauty out of what to us may have seemed only disastrous! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Songs of My Soul - W. Phillip Keller </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9169</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according His purpose. Romans 8:28 </strong></span><br /><br />It is one of the greatest triumphs of God that He has given the knowledge of His perfect goodness to many a frail man, so that the most difficult circumstances, the deepest bereavement of sorrow or suffering, cannot shake His confidence. Even Job said, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him." (Job 13:15)</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But we are permitted to go a step further. We know that whatever is brought upon the believer by God is not merely the product of divine goodness, but the positive plannings of divine love. However severe the trial and deep the pain and trying the exercise, it does but the more convince us of that clear, warm love that makes no mistakes. <br /><br />This love is so deeply concerned that the divine purpose should be worked out in us that it will not shrink from adopting means that may at the moment bring the tear to the eye and make the whole frame wince and quiver. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby." (Hebrews 12:11)</strong></span>. <br /><br />Ask that dying saint, racked with pain, lying, it may be, in a damp cottage with no earthly comfort; ask that bereaved one, out of whose life has passed forever with the silence of death the object of deepest affection; and each will answer, with brightening eye and kindling voice <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"The Lord is good." Nahum 1:7 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">A. J. Pollock </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">We cannot always trace the way where Thou our gracious Lord, dost move; <br />But we can always surely say, that God is love. <br /><br />When clouds hang o'er our darkened path, We'll check our dread, each doubt reprove; For here each saint sweet comfort hath, that God is love.</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>J. Bowring</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9170</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Uriah the Hittite is dead. <br />Then David said unto the messengers...<br />Let not this thing displease thee, for the sword devoureth one as well as the another...<br />When the wife of Uriah heard that Uriah her husband was dead, she mourned for her husband.<br />And when the mourning was past, David sent and fetched her to his house, and she became his wife, and bare him a son. But the thing that David had done displeased the Lord." 2 Samuel 11:24-27 </strong></span><br /><br />The story, instead of ending, only is beginning at this point. At the end of this chapter, so full of corruption and shame, we find a little expression, the only thing David had not thought of and the only one he ought to have remembered. <span style="color: blue;"><strong> "But the thing that David had done displeased (was evil in the sight of) the Lord." (v.27)</strong></span> <br /><br />Let us take heed to our ways. It takes only an instant to fall, but to avoid falling we must constantly be on the alert in all that precedes the incident. <br /><br />Yes, we must watch daily to avoid walking in <strong>"any grievous way".</strong> <span style="color: blue;"><strong> Lead me</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>in the way everlasting" (Psalm 139:24)</strong></span>. In this path all is peace for our souls; this is the path of life that leads to unclouded rejoicing in God's presence: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Thou wilt show me the path of life: in Thy presence is fullness of joy; at Thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore." (Psalm 16:11)</strong></span>.</span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"> <br />2 Samuel - H. L. Rossier</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9171</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">IF THE LORD TARRY (delay)<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">Go to now, ye that say, Today or tomorrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get again: ...For what ye ought to say, <u>if the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that</u>. <br />(James 4:13,15)</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">I question the use of the phrase </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"If the Lord tarry".</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> It seems, however, to have become an expression with many Christians who, I feel assured, desire to speak and act according to the direct teaching of the Holy Scripture. <br /><br />I would not, for a moment, even seem to weaken in any heart the sense of the nearness of the Lord's coming--that most blessed hope. Far be the thought! That hope abides and in no wise depends on using or not using any form of words. <br /><br />But, supposing I say, "if the Lord tarry, I mean to go to London next week." I make my going to London dependant upon the Lord's tarrying, whereas, He may tarry and yet it may not be His will that I should go at all. I ought to place all my movements, all my actions, all my plans, under the commanding influence of my Lord's will. Is this not in direct accordance with the Scripture? Scripture gives us, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"If the Lord wills."</strong></span><br /><br />In conclusion, may I just add that whether we say, <strong>"If the Lord tarry,"</strong> or "if the Lord will," we should ever seek, most earnestly, to be in the present power of the words we use, and thus avoid anything bordering in the most remote degree, upon mere empty phraseology or religious cant. May the Lord make us very real in all our words and ways. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>C. H. Mackintosh</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">His wisdom ever waketh, His sight is never dim:<br />He knows the way He taketh, and I will walk with Him.</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>S. C. G. Küster</em></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9172</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>By Myself have I sworn, saith the Lord, for because thou hast done this thing . . . in blessing I will bless thee. Genesis 22:16-17 </strong></span><br /><br />Let us set ourselves to obey God today. Whether the thing He asks of us is great, or so small that we would be ashamed to let anyone know that it cost us anything, let us yield it to Him as obediently as Abraham yielded Isaac. <br /><br />The way of obedience is the way of joy. It leads to a blessing that is beyond our understanding, even as the blessing of <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Genesis 22:17-18</strong></span> was beyond Abraham's. It results in blessing for others as well as ourselves.<br /><br />Is there any word of my Lord to me which I am refusing to obey? Perhaps I am arguing about it, or trying to smother and forget it, because I do not want to obey. Obey it--then <span style="color: blue;"><strong>in blessing I will bless thee</strong></span> is His promise. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Whisper of His Power</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">- Amy Carmicael</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9173</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But grow in grace, and in the </strong><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>knowledge</strong></span></span><strong style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To Him be glory both now and forever. Amen 2 Peter 3:18 </strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In our verse above we have the apostle Peter's closing words to the flock of God. How striking that he exhorts believers to grow in two different ways.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">(1) <u>We are to </u></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><u><em style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>grow in grace</strong></em></u></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. Grace is God providing for us according to His own heart of love. Our hearts are so slow to realize the fullness of the grace of God. We want to still think that we can do something, or must do something for God to accept us. No, we are accepted in the Beloved </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">(Ephesians 1:6)</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, and that altogether apart from anything we have done. We need to grow in realizing how great this grace is that <u>saved us</u>, <u>sustains us</u>, <u>restores us</u>--as Peter well knew--and <u>provides for us</u>. <br /><br />(2) We are also to <span style="color: blue;">g<u>row in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ</u></span>. There is a blessed Man (who is also God) at the right hand of God who communicates this grace to us. He is our Lord, which means He has authority over us. We see an illustration of this in Pharaoh setting Joseph over the land of Egypt. Joseph was given absolute authority. He used this authority for blessing </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Genesis 41:43-44)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. In like manner, the Lord Jesus has absolute authority today </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Ephesians 1:20-22)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, but He uses it for the blessing of His people. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Let us obey Him! He is also our Saviour. How much it cost Him to be our Saviour! He suffered the judgment of God for us in those three hours of darkness. This is what we deserved. But He endured it in our place in order to save us. As we contemplate His sufferings, may we gladly submit with responsive hearts to His authority as Lord.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">One day He will be honoured publicly in this world. While we wait for that day, may we already give Him glory by growing in grace and in the knowledge of Him! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Kevin Quartell</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9174</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. (Matthew 11:28) </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">What a gracious word of a gracious Saviour on which the soul may confidingly repose and be at peace forever. This rest of grace is a present rest as well as the rest of glory. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Have you found this blessed repose in the blood and work of Immanuel? Have you been long going about "<u>seeking rest and not finding any</u>"? All other peace is counterfeit, shadowy, unreal. <br /><br />The eagle spurns the gilded cage as a poor equivalent for his free-born soarings. The soul's immortal aspirations can be satisfied with nothing short of the possession of God's favour and love that is found through Jesus. How unqualified is the invitation! All alike are qualified and welcome. For the weak, the weary, the sin-burdened soul, there is an open door of grace.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Let the sweet cadence of this "<u>word of Jesus</u>" steal on you amid the disquietudes of earth. Sheltered in Him, you are safe for time, safe for eternity. There may be, and will be, temporary tossings and misgivings, but these will only be like the surface heavings of the ocean while underneath there can be a deep settled calm. The person who is saved can sing to God, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Thou wilt keep Him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee." (Isaiah 26:3)</strong></span>.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">And if the foretaste of this rest be precious, what must be the glorious consummation? We shall awake in immortality's morning with the unique frame of earth past forever. Faith will give way to sight and hope to fruition. There will be no more tendency to sin, no more latent principles of evil to disturb the spirit's everlasting tranquility. The trembling heart will repose where alone it can confidently and permanently rest in the enjoyment of the infinite God. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>J. R. Macduff</strong></em> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9175</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"To <u>all</u> the saints." Philippians 1:1 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The Spirit of God seems to delight to use this little word </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: 16px;">"all."</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> We find it again and again in this Epistle. I think the Greek word </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"all"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> occurs some 34 times. We can think of Lydia and her household; of the jailor and his household. Two sisters who had a quarrel are also included: and many others, whose names are in the Book of Life. And may we not include ourselves also? </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">If we cannot come in with Lydia or the Jailor, perhaps we can with Euodias and Syntache. I doubt not the Spirit of God has given us this little Book for the express purpose of putting our names, also, into that little word <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"all."</strong></span> May the sweet and solemn sentences that flow from it, sink down deep into each of our hearts! </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But I think there is another lesson for us in these words. How often we forget <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"all the saints." </strong></span>How often our thoughts and prayers include only the saints in one little group, that is of special interest to us. Let us remember that God's heart, God's thought, goes out to </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"all the saints."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> When I was a child, every night and morning my father would pray for "</span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">the whole Church of God</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">." </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">This is as it should be: and if we are walking down here as Christ would have us walk, we will not be content that our hearts should take in any smaller circle than <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"all the saints."</strong></span> We may not be able to walk with them all, in the paths they have chosen, but we may love them, and pray for them, all. Before the Assembly at Ephesus had left their first love <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Revelation 2:4)</strong></span>: Paul could write of their <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"love unto all the saints." (Ephesians 1:15)</strong></span>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">And there is another thing that little word <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"all"</strong></span> makes us think of: Suppose the Postmaster got a letter to deliver, addressed: To, All the saints in Christ Jesus which are in Toronto, or London, or New York, or Hong King. How puzzled he would be to know what to do with it! And yet that is the way this letter was addressed: and that is the way the Lord would still have His people: </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"That they all may be one."</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(John 17,11,21,22)</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">G. C. Willis - Philippians</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9176</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow-citizens with the saints, and of the household of God. (Ephesians 2:19)</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But who is a saint? <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Lydia (Acts 16: 14-40)</strong></span> was a saint: the <strong>jailor</strong> was a saint: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Euodias</strong></span> was a saint, and also <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Syntache (Philippian 4:2)</strong></span>. </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">A saint means a holy person, a person separated to God</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. A person who is a saint should live </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"as becometh saints. (Ephesians 5:3)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. A saint should live a holy life, and walk in a way that pleases God. <br /><br />Yet that is not what makes a person a saint in God's eyes, for we find the Spirit of God calls the Corinthians </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>saints, "saints by calling", (1 Corinthians 1:2)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> and they were behaving very badly indeed, so the Spirit of God spends most of two long Epistles finding fault with them: but He begins by calling them </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"saints."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">What, then, is a saint? Every true believer in the Lord Jesus Christ is a saint. Every person bought with His precious blood is a saint: these are all separated from the world, because they are bought with that blood. In <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Ephesians 2:19</strong></span> the Spirit writes to men and women who once were without God, separated </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">from</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> God, (That is the meaning), but now they are separated </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">to</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> God; they are </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"saints."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />He calls them </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"fellow-citizens with the saints"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; citizens of heaven: holy men: </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">saints</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">If you believe on the Lord Jesus Christ: if you are washed in His precious blood: if you are born again, and have eternal life: then you are a saint: just as truly a saint as the saints in Philippi, or just as truly as the apostles Peter or Paul themselves. <br /><br />But the word <strong>saint</strong> should make us think especially of God's people, <strong>separated,</strong> or, <strong>consecrated</strong>, to God: <strong>set apar</strong>t for Him. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Philippians - G. C. Willis</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9177</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">SERVANTS AND SERVICE<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">He that hath My word, let him speak My word faithfully. What is the chaff to the wheat? saith the Lord. Jeremiah 23:28 </span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong style="font-size: 16px;"><em>Preach the truth</em></strong>. Take heed of giving your own dreams and fancies in God's name. All is chaff except the pure Word of God. O stamp not God's image on your own coin! We live in high-flown times: many people are not content with truths that lie plainly in the Scriptures; and some, to please their wanton palates, have refined their notions so high, that they have flown out of the sight of the Scripture, and unawares run themselves, with others, into dangerous errors. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Make not experiments upon the souls of people, by delivering what is doubtful. Better feed people with sound doctrine though it be a plain meal, than that you should with an outlandish dish, light on a wild gourd, that brings death into their pot. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(2 Kings 4:40)</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Preach with the fear of God.</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> A little bread, with God's blessing, may make a meal for a multitude, and great provision may soon shrink to nothing, if God help not in the breaking of it. It is not your sermon in your head, or notes in your book, that will enable you to preach, except God open your mouth. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not unto thine own understanding." (Proverbs 3:5)</strong></span>. The swelling of the heart, as well as of the wall, goes before a fall. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">How much may it provoke God, when you go to the pulpit and pass by His door in the way, without calling for His assistance?... not only the preparation of the heart, but the answer of the tongue, both are from the Lord. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Proverbs 16:1)</strong></span> God keeps the key of the mouth as, well of the heart; not a word can be uttered, until God opens the door of the lips to give it a free exit. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Numbers 22:28-31)</strong></span>.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br />The </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Christian in Complete Armour - W Gurnall (1617-1679) </strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9178</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>The Lord appeared to Abram, and said unto him, I am the Almighty God; walk before Me, and be thou perfect." Genesis 17:1 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong style="font-size: 16px;">POWER</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"> No person in a position of authority and power ever got there without God granting it. People love power. They think it gives them control over the behaviour of others, and many authority figures think they can even control those souls. We do need leaders, but we all want them to be benevolent - a rare combination. </span><br /><br />Most leaders believe their personal survival in their position of power depends upon their performance, and therefore, will do <u>anything</u> to secure their position. This is clearly abuse of power, but all too common. Such power-mad people fail to even admit there is a <strong>HIGHER POWER</strong>, God, who orders everything in this world, even to the extent of letting evil permeate society for a time. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It's easy to identify powerful leaders around the world who have risen up for all the wrong reasons, but there is One who is in such a position for all the right reasons; and that is God's only Son, the Man Christ Jesus. God has anointed Him with power from on high; power over the entire universe and everything in it. The world doesn't see that yet, but it will. Be assured that the day is coming, and soon, when the Lord Jesus will be gloriously displayed to every one on earth as all-powerful. The Bible says in <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Psalm 72:11, "Yea, all kings shall fall down before Him: all nations shall serve Him"</strong></span>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong style="font-size: 16px;">Where will you be then?</strong> The end-time events may start within your lifetime or soon after, but the book of Revelation gives us a picture of what's coming - world-wide judgment and personal judgment. <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"As it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment: So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for Him shall He appear the second time without sin unto salvation." (Hebrews 9:27,28)</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"> </span></span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lorne Perry for Vision 2020</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 16px;">N.J.Hiebert - 9179 </span><span style="font-size: 13px;"> (To be continued)</span></strong></em></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><u>Where will you be then</u>? </strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>(Part 2)</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And as It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment. (Hebrews 9:27)<br /> </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">The end-time events may start within your lifetime or soon after, but the book of Revelation gives us a picture of what is coming - world-wide judgment and personal judgment.</span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"> </span><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">(Revelation 20:11-12) </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><u>Let's face it, everyone's <strong style="font-size: 16px;">"works"</strong> are bad when placed against God's standard of perfection</u>. God gave you a free will, permitting you to obey and worship Him because you <u style="font-size: 16px;">chose</u> to. But instead, from Adam and Eve on down we have chosen to follow our own will. <span style="color: blue;"><strong></strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way." (Isaiah 53:6).<br />There is a way which seems right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death." (Proverbs 14:12)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u><strong>Only one rescue plan</strong></u></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">There is just one way to escape the holy judgment of God upon your sins, and that is to lay hold of God's free offer, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and Thou shalt be saved." (Acts 16:31)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. It's a short step in order to have peace with God, but it means declaring before Him you are guilty and hopeless, believing on Jesus Christ as the only possible Saviour, and trusting completely in all He accomplished at Calvary, when His blood was shed.<br /><br />Instantly, you will have eternal life. Your sins will all be gone from God's sight - erased from the record books. You will escape the coming judgment, and have an assured place with Jesus in heaven. <em><u>You are offered this wonderful position only while you are still alive</u></em>. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><em><strong>"Now is the day of salvation" (2 Corinthians 6:2)</strong></em></span> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> You dare not put it off! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lorne Perry for Vision in 2020 in 2023</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9180</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Pilate therefore went forth again, and saith unto them, Behold, I bring Him forth to you, that ye may know that I find no fault in Him. . . Behold the man! . . .Behold your King! John 19:4-5,14.</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Little did the pagan Roman Governor know that he was not only quoting scripture, but was actually fulfilling it. Three times he calls attention to the Saviour and uses almost the exact words of the prophet.<br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Zechariah (3:8; 6:12; 9:9)</strong></span> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><em>The hearts of all men are in the hands of the sovereign Lord and He uses whom He will to fulfil His purpose.<strong> Jim Flanigan<br /><br />God moves in a mysterious way, His wonders to perform;<br />He plants His footsteps in the sea, and rides upon the storm.<br /><br />Deep in unfathomable mines of never-failing skill,<br />He treasures up His bright designs, and works His sovereign will. <br /><br />[Ye fearful saints, fresh courage take, the clouds ye so much dread<br />Are big with mercy, and shall break in blessings on your head.<br /><br />Judge not the Lord by feeble sense, but trust Him for His grace:<br />Behind a frowning providence He hides a smiling face.] </strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">His purposes will ripen fast, unfolding every hour;<br />The bud may have a bitter taste, but sweet will be the flower.<br /><br />Blind unbelief is sure to err, and scan His work in vain;<br />God is His own interpreter, and He will make it plain.</span><span style="font-size: 16px;"> </span><span style="font-size: 13px;">(William Cowper, 1779)</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9181</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>WITHOUT ME -- NOTHING<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">"Without Me ye can do nothing." John 15:5 </span></strong><span style="color: blue;"></span><br /><br />The starting point to "<u>all things</u>" is to learn that we are nothing. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For I know that in me</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong><em>(that is, in my flesh,)</em></strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>dwelleth no good thing" (Romans 7:18)</strong></span>. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For if a man think himself to be something, when he is nothing, he deceiveth himself." (Galatians 6:3)</strong></span>. What a self-deceived generation, then is ours! <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"It is not in man that walketh to direct his steps." (Jeremiah 10:23).</strong></span> We do not have what it takes. Start with your nothingness-- <strong>"Just as I am, without one plea"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><strong>-- <em>(Charlotte Elliott)</em> </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">and you are on your way to His "<u>all things</u>." <br /><br /><em><strong>Let our debts be what they may, however great or small; <br />As soon as we have naught to pay, our Lord forgives us all.<br />'Tis perfect poverty alone that sets the soul at large; <br />While we can call one mite our own, we have no full discharge. </strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>(Joseph Hart)</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We can never be blessed until we learn that we can bring nothing to Christ but our need. "All the fitness He requireth is to feel your need of Him." </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>(Joseph Hart)</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>Day by Day with Vance Havner </em></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9182</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Charity (Love) suffereth long, and is kind...doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked, thinketh no evil; rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth." </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>1 Corinthians 13:4-6</strong></span> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">These indicate that love never bears any malice. An outstanding illustration of this occurred in England many years ago. When William Ewart Gladstone was Chancellor of the Exchequer, he sent down to the Treasury for certain statistics upon which to base his budget proposals. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The statistician made a mistake. But Gladstone was so sure of this man's accuracy that he did not take time to verify his figures. He went before the Hose of Commons and made his speech, basing his appeal on the incorrect figures that had been given him. His speech was no sooner published than the newspapers exposed its glaring inaccuracies. <br /><br />Mr Gladstone was naturally overwhelmed with embarrassment. He went to his office and sent at once for the statistician who was responsible for his humiliating situation. The man came full of fear and shame, certain that he was going to lose his position. But, instead, Gladstone said: "I know how much you must be disturbed over what has happened, and I have sent for you to put you at your ease. <br /><br />For a long time you have been engaged in handling the intricacies of the national accounts, and this is the first mistake that you have made. I want to congratulate you, and express to you my keen appreciation." <br /><br />It took a big man to do that, big with the bigness of the truly merciful. The worst of men do not so much need our forgiveness, as the best of men need the forgiveness of God; and one would have thought that the wonderful mercy shown to us by our gracious Father, would make the forgiving of our brother man for any injury he may have done to us, a very simple matter. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Winsome Christianity - Henry Durbanville</span></strong></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br /></span></strong></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-size: 16px; font-weight: 400;">N.J.Hiebert - 9183</span></span></strong></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>For whatsoever things were written aforetime were written for our learning, that we through patience and comfort of the scriptures might have hope. </strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Romans 15:4</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It has been said that the Bible is the Holy Spirit's chief "medicine" for healing broken hearts. The world tells us to "pull up our own socks" or to "hang in there!" But simple cliches like these do not have the power to encourage our hearts. It is the Word of God that has power to lift up our spirits and encourage us to go on. <u>When we read, meditate, and depend on the Bible, it gives us enlightenment, endurance, and encouragement</u>. <br /><br />People today are looking for something to give them hope and to help them go forward in life. It is easy to fall into the snare of telling people what we think they want to hear. It is equally easy to share stories or personal experiences that might for the moment seem to give help. <br /><br />But it is only the Word of God that is <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"quick and powerful"</strong></span> [<em>l</em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em>iving and operative - margin]</em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Hebrews 4:12)</strong></span> and has power to change lives. Even the apostle Paul, was told <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"if ye have any word of exhortation </strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">[encouragement]</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>for the people, say on." (Acts 13:15)</strong></span>.<br /><br />It is important for us to know that no matter how sincere or how loving our words may be we do not have the power to penetrate the heart as the words that are </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">[God-breathed]</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(2 Timothy 3:16)</strong></span>. I<u>f we want to be an encouragement to God's people, we must saturate ourselves with the Word of God so that we may be able to bring out verses that will be a help in the time of need</u>! <br /><br />Paul told the assembly at Thessalonica, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"to comfort one another with these words" (1 Thessalonians 4:18)</strong></span>. Paul also told Timothy, to <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Preach the Word." (2 Timothy 4:2)</strong></span>. <u>This is what we need if we are going to be an encouragement to the Lord's people today</u>! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Lord is near - T. P. Hadley</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9184</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will show to you today. Exodus 14:13 </strong></span><br /><br />Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord. How difficult it is to focus our vision clearly and distinctly when we are busy running here and there, overly concerned about our personal welfare. The people of Israel were not on the move here but were encamped by the sea.<br /><br />Yet at this very point Moses has to say to them: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Stand still."</strong></span> Why? Though not on the march, their hearts were troubled, agitated like the troubled sea before which they were encamped. They were emotionally in turmoil. <br /><br />With the sea in front of them, hemmed in on ether side by mountains, and with the formidable chariots of the army of Egypt pursuing them, they figured it was better to serve Egypt (a type of the world), with all its bondage and hard labour, than to die in the wilderness. <br /><br />Would it not be better to die in the wilderness, separated unto Christ, than to serve this world's system which is under Satan's influence? <br /><br />But notice, God does not want us to serve the world or die in the wilderness. We must learn to stand still so that we can properly focus our vision on our great God, the supreme, all-powerful One. There come those moments in our lives when we have to realize our utter helplessness to do anything about the circumstances that are beyond our control. God allows them. <br /><br />He had directed Israel to camp at this very spot. When we are where He wants us to be, He would have us stand still so that we may better see His overall plan, so as to get our eyes above the things of this world with its strife and turmoil. <br /><br />Stand still! God would have us emotionally calm so that we might better see the working out of His salvation which is of His providing. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">P. E. Hall</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9185</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>If the clouds be full of rain, they empty themselves upon the earth. Ecclesiastes 11:3 </strong></span><br /><br />Why, then, do we dread the clouds which now darken our sky? True, for a while they hide the sun, but the sun is not quenched; it will be out again before long. Meanwhile those black clouds are filled with rain; and the blacker they are, the more likely they will yield plentiful showers. <br /><br />How can we have rain without clouds? Our troubles have always brought us blessings, and they always will. They are the dark chariots of bright grace. These clouds will empty themselves before long, and every tender herb will be gladder for the shower. Our God may drench us with grief, but He will refresh us with mercy. <br /><br />Our Lord's love-letters often come to us in black-edged envelopes. His wagons rumble, but they are loaded with benefits. His rod blossoms with sweet flowers and nourishing fruits. Let us not worry about the clouds, but sing because May flowers are brought to us through the April clouds and showers. <br /><br />O Lord, the clouds are the dust of Thy feet! How near Thou art in the cloudy and dark day! Love beholds Thee, and is glad. Faith sees the clouds emptying themselves and making the little hills rejoice on every side. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">C. H. Spurgeon</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">"What seems so dark to thy dim sight may be a shadow, seen aright<br />Making some brightness doubly bright.<br />The flash that struck thy tree--no more to shelter thee--lets heaven's<br />blue floor shine where it never shone before.<br />The cry wrung from thy spirit's pain may echo on some far-off plain,<br />and guide a wanderer home again."<br /><br />"The blue of heaven is larger than the clouds."</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9186</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><strong style="color: blue; font-size: 16px;">Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright...afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of </strong></span><span style="color: blue;"><strong>repentance</strong></span><strong style="color: blue;">,</strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"><strong style="color: blue; font-size: 16px;"> though he sought it carefully with tears. </strong></span><span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong style="color: blue; font-size: 16px;">Hebrews 12:16,17</strong></span> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The natural heart places no value on the things of God. To it, God's promise is a vague, valueless, powerless thing, simply because God is not known. Hence it is that present things carry such weight and influence in man's estimation. Anything that man can </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>see</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, he values, because he is governed by sight and not by faith. To him, the present is everything; the future is a mere un-influential thing--a matter of the merest uncertainty. <br /><br />Thus it was with Esau. Hear his flawed reasoning,--<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Behold, I am at the point to die: and what profit shall this birthright do to me?"</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Genesis 25:32)</strong></span> What strange reasoning!--<em><strong>The present</strong></em> is slipping from beneath my feet, I will therefore despise and entirely let go <em><strong>the future</strong></em>!--Time is fading from my view, I will therefore abandon all interest in eternity! <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Thus Esau despised his birthright:" "thus Israel despised the pleasant land (Psalm 106:24)</strong></span>; thus they despised Christ <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Zechariah 11:13):</strong></span> those who were bidden to the marriage despised the invitation <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Matthew 22:5)</strong></span>. Man has no heart for the things of God. The present is everything to him. A mess of pottage is better than a title to Canaan. <br /><br />Hence, the very reason why Esau made light of the birthright was the very reason why he ought to have grasped it with the greater intensity. The more clearly I see the vanity of man's present, the more I shall cleave to God's future. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness, looking for and hastening unto the coming of the day of God..."</span></strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>(<u>2 Peter 3:11-13</u>)</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Genesis - C. H. Mackintosh</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9187</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">And, behold, there talked with Him two men, which were Moses and Elias: who appeared in glory, and spake of His decease which He should accomplish at Jerusalem. (Luke 9:30,31) </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">They </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong style="font-size: 16px;"><em>talked</em></strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> of His </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>decease</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> which He was to </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong style="font-size: 16px;"><em>accomplish</em></strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">: three precious and important words. They tell us of the intimacy, the personal intimacy, that there is between the Lord and the elect in the realms of glory. As it was in the Garden of Eden at the beginning, and then among the patriarchs, and then with the disciples and their divine Master, so will it be in the ages of glory. There will be personal intimacy between the Lord and His people, as signified by the word <span style="color: blue;"><em><strong>talk</strong></em></span>. <br /><br />But we have also the subject of their conversation; it was His <span style="color: blue;"><em><strong>decease</strong></em></span>--a theme most worthy to engage the glorified hosts. We may well speak of it on every Lord's Day in the light of the resurrection, since the ransomed in the heavens speak of it in the light of the glory. For that great fact or mystery will be celebrated forever, as it is the great fact that is to prove itself the pillars of eternity, the pillars of the creation of God. <br /><br />And again, they will let us learn a very weighty matter connected with this subject--it was a <span style="color: blue;"><strong>decease</strong></span> that was to to be <span style="color: blue;"><em><strong>accomplished</strong></em></span>--a word which suggests the full, finished, perfected character of the way in which that great mystery, the death of the Lamb of God at Jerusalem, was to be conducted. All due solemnity was to mark it, that nothing might be left unaffected, un-produced, or unsecured, which it was purposed to do.<br /><br />And what a comfort to us sinners! The sacrifice of the Lamb of God was the precious eternal secret that was to give us blessed eternal peace. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. G. Bellett</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9188</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>NO, NOT ONE! </strong><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Henceforth I call you not servants; for the servant knoweth not what his Lord doeth: but I have called you friends. . . . (John 15:15) </strong></span><br /><br />- He became poor that we might become rich <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(James 2:5).</strong></span><br />- He was born that we might be born again <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(John 1:14).</strong></span><br />- He became a servant that we might become sons <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Galatians 4:4-5).</strong></span><br />- He had no home that we might have a home in heaven <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Matthew 8:20).</strong></span> <br />- He was made sin that we might be made righteous <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(2 Corinthians 5:21).</strong></span><br />- He died that we might live <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(John 5:24-25).</strong></span> <br /><br />There's not a friend like the lowly Jesus, </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">No, not one! no, not one! <br />None else could heal all your soul's diseases, </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">No, not one! no, not one!<br /><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">No friend like Him is so high and holy, </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">No, not one! no, not one!<br />And yet no friend is so meek and lowly, </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">No, not one! no, not one! <br /><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">There's not an hour that He is not near us, </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">No, not one! no, not one!<br />No night so dark but His love can cheer us, </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">No, not one! no, not one! <br /><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Did ever saint find this Friend forsake him? </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">No, not one! no, not one!<br />Or sinner find that He would not take him? </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">No, not one! no, not one!<br /><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Was e'er a gift like the Saviour given? </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">No, not one! No, not one!<br />Will He refuse us a home in heaven? </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">No, not one! No, not one!</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Chorus:</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Jesus knows all about our struggles, He will guide till the day is done.<br />There's not a friend like the lowly Jesus, No, not one! no, not one!</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">George C. Huggs, 1848-1907 </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9189</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>But call to remembrance the former days, in which, after ye were illuminated, (saved) ye endured a great fight of of afflictions. <br />Hebrews 10:32.</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />Have you ever wondered how it is that just after you have been </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"illuminated"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> in some way, perhaps specially comforted or strengthened, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"a great fight of afflictions"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> has followed? We are not told why this is so, but the words tell us that we are not the first to experience this test of faith. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">This morning these words came to me with piercing power: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"That no man should be moved by these afflictions: for yourselves know that we are appointed thereunto." (1 Thessalonians 3:3)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> I think that we are often inclined to be surprised when things are difficult or painful. <br /><br />We entirely forget that we </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"are appointed thereunto." </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Let us lay hold on these words <em><span style="color: blue;"><strong>appointed thereunto</strong></span></em>, and we shall not expect the way of the Cross to be like a lovely forest path. But remember this: these afflictions, temptations, trials of the flesh or spirit . . . <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"the sufferings of this present time, are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us." (Romans 8:18)</strong></span>. Take courage. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Thou Givest...They Gather - Amy Carmichael</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9190</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>THE REASSURANCE OF LOVE</strong><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And Joseph said unto his brethren, I am Joseph; doth my father yet live? And his brethren could not answer him; for they were troubled at his presence." </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Genesis 45:3 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">That they did fear is evident enough. Joseph, however, draws them to himself with the cords of love; <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Come near to me," </strong></span>he says. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"And they came near."</strong></span> And having drawn them to himself, he seeks to remove every fear by reminding them he is still their brother, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I am Joseph <em>your brother</em>" (v.4)</strong></span>. He says, I know full well how you treated me in the days that are past, you hated me, you spurned me, you sold me, <u style="font-size: 16px;">but fear not, for though I am supreme I am Joseph <em>your brother</em></u>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>THE REMEMBRANCE OF THE PAST</strong> <br />Moreover, as to the past, Joseph cannot allow that any regrets should rise up to mar their enjoyment of his love. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Now therefore,"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> says Joseph, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"be not grieved nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither" (v.5)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. The sin had been confessed, and Joseph will not only forgive, but he will remove all lingering regrets and self-reproaches.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He will assure them that behind their sin, yea, by means of their sin, God was working out His purposes of blessing. It is true, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"you sold me hither," (v.8)</strong></span> Joseph has to say, but he adds, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"God sent me before you to save your lives by a great deliverance." (v.7)</strong></span> Thus he delivers his brethren from occupation with themselves by engaging their thoughts and affections with himself, his glories, and the blessings that flow to them through his exaltation. <br /><br /><strong>THE RELIEF FROM ANXIETY</strong><br />Then as to the future no care or anxiety need cloud their horizon, for Joseph can say, in the message he sends to his father,<span style="color: blue;"><strong> "Thou shalt dwell in the land of Goshen, and thou shalt be near to me, thou, and thy children, and thy children's children, and all that thou hast, and there will I nourish thee" (v.10)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Joseph - Hamilton Smith</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9191</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.<br />Proverbs 4:23</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Here is displayed a scientific knowledge and accuracy far beyond the times in which Solomon wrote. The great discovery of Harvey, the circulation of the blood, which revolutionized medical thought, is here calmly taken for granted, and used to set forth, or illustrate, a spiritual truth. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Just as the heart is the centre of the physical system, from where flow the issues of life, so, in a moral and spiritual sense, the heart, used as a synonym for the soul, is that which must be jealously guarded, that so may go forth that which is for the upbuilding of the child of God. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Put away from thee a froward mouth, and perverse lips put far from thee. (v.24) </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">As it is out of the heart's abundance that the mouth speaks, mouth and heart are here intimately connected. A froward mouth and perverse lips imply one who is not in subjection to God. Where His Word has its place in the soul, the lips manifest it. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Notes on Proverbs - H. A. Ironside </span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9192</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Samuel did not yet know the Lord, neither was the word of the Lord yet revealed unto him. And the Lord called Samuel again the third time...Speak; for Thy servant heareth. (1 Samuel 3:7-10)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">God reveals Himself personally to Samuel and makes him the depository of His word. This young boy is raised to the dignity of a friend of God and, like the man of experience and of faith which Abraham was, God hides nothing from Samuel of what He was about to do. Until that moment Eli's teaching had instructed Samuel concerning the way to enter into communication with God <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(v.9)</strong></span>; now Samuel is in direct relationship with the Lord who is entrusting His secrets to him.<br /> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In chapter 1, Eli lacked discernment; in chapter 2, he lacked the moral courage to separate himself from evil; here, his eyes are dim and he cannot see, and nevertheless the lamp of God had not yet gone out--a striking image of his moral condition. And what is more, Eli, this leader of the simple, proves himself to be dull of understanding. Samuel was simply <em><strong>ignorant</strong></em>, which is a thousand times better. When there is godliness, God remedies ignorance. If the new-born babe desires <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"the sincere milk of the word,"</strong></span> he will not be refused. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Here on earth we know only in part <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(1 Corinthians 13:9)</strong></span> and we will never know otherwise than only in part. That, we are not responsible for; but it is a question of growth: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"That ye may grow" (1 Peter 2:2)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, and our responsibility is to seek, to this end, spiritual food. <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"The iniquity which he (Eli) hath known because his sons made themselves vile, and he restrained them not."(v.13)</strong></span>. Eli knew the evil, and he had <em><strong>authority</strong></em> to repress it in his sons, but he did not use it. What profit was it to him that this authority had been entrusted to him by God? He displayed a sad forgetfulness of what was due to the Lord's holiness.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">1 Samuel - Dr. Henri L. Rossiere</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9193</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>There shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, and saying, Where is the promise of His coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong> </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>2 Peter 3:3,4 </strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">It is always when people want to follow their own lusts that they begin to scoff. But man, without God, wants to be independent, to gratify himself, and therefore he thinks he must get rid of God, get rid of His authority; and he would be glad to get rid of God out of the scene altogether if he could. <br /><br />These scoffers say, the only thing that is durable and abiding is creation. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It began far away in remote space; how it came we do not know exactly, but it came, and it goes on, and as for the promise of the coming of the Son of God, it is absurd. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Where is the promise of His coming?" (v.6)</strong></span> they say scoffingly. Judging by appearances, they say that there is no change since the beginning. This is false. <br /><br />The eye of man may not have detected any change, but the Word of God assures us that there has been. But if they scoff at the Lord's coming, they are obliged to let in creation, and if creation comes in there must be the Creator, and who is the Creator? There they are silenced. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the Word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water. Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished." (v.5,6)</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">There are some of the wise men of this world who tell you that you must not believe in the flood. They will tell you it is impossible, and that to believe is a great mistake. If you admit the flood, you admit the judgment of God upon wickedness, and if you admit the judgment of God upon wickedness once, then it is more than probable He will judge a second time. So men will not have it. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Simon Peter - W. T. P. Wolston, M.D</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9194</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, this cup is the new testament in My blood, which is shed for you. Luke 22:20</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">What is this <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"new covenant"</strong></span> about? Well, the old covenant was dedicated, or inaugurated, with blood <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Hebrews 9:18-21)</strong></span>. So, the new covenant must be inaugurated with blood likewise, and the blood required for the new covenant is the blood of Christ. When the Lord Jesus shed His blood at Calvary He took away our sins, but He did much more than that. The blood which has taken away our sins is also the blood upon which the new covenant will be established in a coming day with Israel. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Our relationship with God is not on a covenant basis, but some of the blessings of that new covenant are ours today. One of them is, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"</strong></span></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Their sins and iniquities will I remember no more" (Hebrews 10:17)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. That perfect sin offering is the basis of the future blessing of Israel, but it is also the means of of our eternal blessing today. Our </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"sins and iniquities"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> will never be brought up again. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">You say, "Yes, but what if I sin again tomorrow?" How many sins had you committed when the Lord died? They were all future, and so when He took our sins He took them all. The prophet Micah says, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Thou wilt cast all their sins into the depths of the sea." (Micah 7:19)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. When you say that you know that you are saved, it is not that you are exceptionally good or better than anyone else. </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Our salvation rests, not on what we have done, but on what <em><strong>Christ</strong></em> has done</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He is the perfect sin offering; It is His blood that has met God's requirements, and it is His acceptance that is now our acceptance before God. <span style="color: blue;"><u><em><strong>"Their sins and iniquities will I remember no more."</strong></em></u></span> This is God's statement to all those who have obtained, by faith, the Lord Jesus Christ as their perfect Sin Offering. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Jacob Redekop </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9195</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 28</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">For Thou art my rock and my fortress; therefore for Thy name's sake lead me, and guide me. Psalm 31:3</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Guide us, O Thou gracious Saviour, </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Pilgrims through this barren land;</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We are weak, but Thou art mighty;</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Hold us with Thy powerful hand.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Bread of heaven!</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Feed us now and evermore. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">While we tread this vale of sorrow,</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">May we in Thy love abide:</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Keep us ever, gracious Saviour,</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Cleaving closely to Thy side,</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Still relying</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">On the Father's changeless love.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Saviour, come, we long to see Thee,</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Long to dwell with Thee above,</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">And to know in full communion</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">All the sweetness of Thy love.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Come, Lord Jesus,</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Take Thy waiting people home.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">W. Williams - 1774 </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9196</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>For every man shall bear his own burden (load). Galatians 6:5</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In the second verse </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(6:2)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> we are exhorted to bear one another's burdens. But I am not to expect that my brother should bear my burden for me, whatever I may do for him: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For everyone shall bear his own load."</strong></span> The word for <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"bear"</strong></span> is just the same as in the second verse, but the word for load is quite different. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The word in verse 2 means a heavy burden; it is used of troubles, of faults, and of responsibilities in ordinary Greek, and if it refers to the sin of the brother who had a fall in verse 1, then we know that every sin and every fall must be a very heavy burden, when we come to realize what we have done. The load in verse 5 is the same word as the light burden that Christ speaks of in <span style="color: blue;">(Matthew 11:30)</span>.<br /><br />It really means "something carried," whether it be heavy or light, and it is often used for a soldier's "pack". You know in an army each soldier has his own pack, and he himself is responsible to carry that. Perhaps here, the Apostle is thinking of those individual packs which he had so often seen the Roman soldiers carrying; so he says, the Christian soldier also has his own pack, and we must each one of us carry that. <br /><br />Some soldiers put their own private things into their packs and make them heavy, but Christ's pack that He gives to each one of us is light. If we fill it up with gold, books or even the heavy, heavy burden of anxiety (Philippians 4:7), or some other thing that in our eyes is quite innocent and harmless, we will soon find that our "load" has become very heavy. One Christian soldier that I knew used to say: my life motto is: "<u>travel light</u>!" <br /><br />Do not put anything in that pack except what the Captain of our salvation has put in it, and then we may be sure our load will be as He promised, (light). </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Meditations on Galatians - G. C. Willis</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9197</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 30</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and, let us run with patience the race that is set before us. Hebrews 12:1</strong></span> <br /><br />There are weights which are not sins in themselves, but which become distractions and stumbling blocks in our Christian progress. One of the worst of these is <u>despondency</u>. The heavy heart is indeed a weight that will surely drag us down in our holiness and usefulness. <br /><br />The failure of Israel to enter the land of promise began in murmuring, or, as the text in Numbers literally puts it, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"as it were murmured." (Numbers 14:2)</strong></span> Just a faint desire to complain and be discontented. This led on until it blossomed and ripened into rebellion and ruin. Let us give ourselves no liberty ever to doubt God or His love and faithfulness to us in everything and forever. <br /><br />We can set our will against doubt just as we do against any other sin; and as we stand firm and refuse to doubt, the Holy Spirit will come to our aid and give us the faith of God and crown us with victory.<br /><br />It is very easy to fall into the habit of doubting, fretting, and wondering if God has forsaken us and if after all our hopes are to end in failure. Let us refuse to be discouraged. Let us refuse to be unhappy. Let us <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"count it all joy" (James 1:2)</strong></span> when we cannot feel one emotion of happiness. Let us rejoice by faith, by resolution, by reckoning, and we shall surely find that God will make the reckoning real. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Selected</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9198</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Yet a little while, and He that shall come will come, and will not tarry (delay). Hebrews 10:37 </strong></span><br /><br />Self-sacrifice is always joy where there is grace in it. There is no such joy as self-devotedness. <br /><br />The soul is tested by afflictions as to how far self-will is active. . . . God searches us. By this means we learn on the one hand what we are, and on the other what God is for us in His faithfulness and daily care. We are weaned from the world, and our eyes become better able to discern and appreciate what is heavenly. <br /><br />All that makes heaven a home to Christ will make it a home to me. O come, Lord Jesus! <br /><br />Christ's perfection was not to act, but to suffer; in suffering there was a more entire surrender of Himself. <br /><br />In His eternal presence, how shall we feel that all our little sorrows and separations were but little drops by the way, to make us feel that we were not with Him, and when with Him what it is to be there.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Footprints for Pilgrims - J. N. Darby</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">We sing of the realms of the blest, that country so bright and so fair,<br />The glorious mansions of rest--but what must it be to be there?<br /><br />We tell of its freedom from sin, from sorrow, temptation, and care,<br />From trials without and within--but what must it be to be there? <br /><br />Do Thou, Lord, 'midst pleasure and woe, still for heaven our spirits prepare;<br />And shortly we also shall know and feel what it is to be there. </span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Mrs. E. Mills - 1829</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br />N.J.Hiebert - 9199</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: and see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." Psalm 139:23,24 </strong></span><br /><br />JOHN RUSKIN, in his <em>Ethics of the Dust</em>, answers the question, "What can mud become when God takes it in hand?" He replies, "Well, what is mud? First of all, mud is clay and sand, and usually soot and a little water." <br /><br />Then he says, "</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When God takes it in hand He transforms the clay into a sapphire, for a sapphire is just that; and the sand into an opal, for that is the analysis of an opal; and the soot into a diamond, for a diamond is just carbon which has been transformed by God; and the soiled water into a bright snow crystal, for that is what the crystals are when God takes the water up into the heaven and sends it back again."</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Let God have your life. He can do more with it than you can. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">D. L. Moody</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">DIAMONDS</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Diamonds are only chunks of coal that stuck to their jobs, you see;<br />If they'd petered out, as most of us do, where would the diamonds be? <br />It isn't the fact of making a start, it's the sticking that counts. I'll say,<br />It's the fellow that knows not the meaning of fall, but hammers and hammers away.<br />Whenever you think you've come to the end, and you're beaten as bad as can be,<br />Remember that diamonds are chunks of coal, that stuck to their jobs, you see. </strong></em><br /><em><strong>Virginia Call </strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. ( 2 Corinthians 5:17)<br /><br />For it is God which worketh in you both to will and do of HIs good pleasure. (Phil. 2:13)</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9200</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Consecrate yourselves to day to the Lord . . . that He may bestow upon you a blessing this day. </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Exodus 32:29 </strong></span><br /><br />Not a long time hence, not even tomorrow, but <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"this day."</strong></span> Do you not want a blessing? Is not your answer to your Father's "What wilt thou?" the same as Achsah's <span style="color: blue;"><em><strong>"Give me a blessing!" (Joshua 15:16-19)</strong></em></span> Here is His promise of just what you so want; will you not gladly fulfill His condition? <br /><br />A blessing shall immediately follow. He does not specify what it shall be; He waits to reveal it. You will find it such a blessing as you had not supposed could be for you--a blessing that shall verily make you rich, with no sorrow added--a blessing <span style="color: blue;"><em><strong>this</strong></em> <strong><em>day</em></strong></span>. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Proverbs 10:22)</strong></span> <br /><br /><em><strong>One the channel, deep and broad,<br />From the Fountain of the Throne,<br />Christ the Saviour, Son of God,<br />Blessings flow through Him alone.<br /><br />He, the Faithful and the True,<br />Brings us mercies ever new:<br />Till we reach His home on high,<br />God shall all your need supply.</strong></em></span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong> </strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Francis Ridley Havergal</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9201</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 4</span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-36286001717581865352023-03-01T03:30:00.043-05:002023-03-29T07:45:24.696-04:00Gems from March 2023<p><strong style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2 </span></strong></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">UNTO JESUS and not to our brethren, not even to the best among them and the best beloved. <u>In following a man we run the risk of losing our way;</u> in following Jesus we are sure of never losing our way.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Besides, in putting a man between Jesus and ourselves, it will come to pass that insensibly the man will increase and Jesus will decrease; soon we no longer know how to find Jesus when we cannot find the man, and if he fails us, all fails. <br /><br />On the contrary, if Jesus is kept between us and our closest friend, our attachment to the person will be at the same time less enthralling and more deep; less passionate and more tender; less necessary, and more useful; an instrument of rich blessing in the hands of God. <br /><br />He is pleased to make use of him; and whose absence will be a further blessing, when it may please God to dispense with him, to draw us even nearer to the only Friend who can not be separated from us by <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"neither death nor life" Romans 8:38,39.</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Theodore Monod</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9137</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness. Proverbs 16:31 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 14px;">What though of gilded baubles He bereaves us,<br />Dear to the heart of youth, to manhood's prime,<br />Think of the calm He brings, the peace He leaves us,<br />The hoarded spoils, the legacies of time."</span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"Nor does the falling into decay of the earthly house of this tabernacle affect the grandeur of old age. "They say I am growing old because my hair is silvered, and there are crow's feet on my forehead, and my step is not as firm and elastic as before. But they are mistaken; that is not me."</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The knees are weak, but the knees are not me. The brow is wrinkled, but the brow is not me. This is the house I live in: but I am young--younger than I was ever before."</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The conclusion at which we arrive so far, then, is that while youth is beautiful--wondrously beautiful--age has a beauty and a majesty all its own; and that, although those who are at the beginning of life may acquire much knowledge, those who are nearing its close may possess that wisdom which is knowledge applied. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. (Proverbs 4:18)</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee. Isaiah 60:1</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Best Is Yet To Be - H. Durbanville </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9138</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. Hebrews 10:25</strong></span> <br /><br />It is quite certain that those who are whole hearted for Christ desire to be in His company. They instinctively wend their way to the spot where He is known to be. Is there such a spot on earth? Yes, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of the them." Matthew 18:20</strong></span>. <br /><br />No one who is truly conscious of the greatness and excellency of His Person, and of the blessedness of communion with Him, would willingly be absent from that favoured place. <br /><br />We read that of old, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"They continued steadfastly in the apostles doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers." (Acts 2:42)</strong></span>. Alas that there should be such a lack of continuing steadfastly now! <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"In the midst of the church will I sing praise unto Thee." (Hebrews 2:12)</strong></span> and can we suppose that He fails to notice whether we are there or not to join in the song He leads?<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"This do in remembrance of Me"? (1 Corinthians 11:24) </strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>The Lord is Near - 2007</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>We go to meet the Saviour, His glorious face to see;<br />What manner of behaviour doth with this hope agree?<br />May God's illumination guide heart and walk aright;<br />That so our preparation be pleasing in His sight. </strong></span><span style="font-size: 16px;"> </span><strong>Paul Gerhardt</strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9139</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>And the Lord visited Sarah as He had said, and the Lord did unto Sarah as He had spoken." Genesis 21:1</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Here we have accomplished promise--the blessed fruit of patient waiting upon God. <u>None ever waited in vain</u>. The soul that takes hold of God's promise by faith, has gotten a stable reality which will never fail him. Thus was it with Abraham; thus was it with all the faithful from age to age; and thus will it be with all those who are enabled, in any measure, to trust in the living God. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Oh! it is a wonderful blessing to have God Himself as our portion and resting-place, amid the unsatisfying shadows of this scene through which we are passing,--to have our anchor cast within the vail,--to have the word and oath of God--the two immutable things--to lean upon, for the comfort and tranquility of our souls. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When God's promise stood before the soul of Abraham as an accomplished fact, he might well have learned the futility of his own effort to reach that accomplishment. Ishmael was of no use whatever, so far as God's promise was concerned. He might, and did, afford something for nature's affections to entwine themselves around, thus furnishing a more difficult task for Abraham to perform afterwards; but he was in no wise conducive to the development of the purpose of God, or to the establishment of Abraham's faith, quite the reverse. <br /><br /><u>Nature can never do aught for God</u>. The Lord must </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"visit,"</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> and the Lord must </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"do,"</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> and faith must <strong>wait</strong>, and nature must be still, yea, must be entirely set aside as a dead, worthless thing, and then the divine glory can shine out, and faith find in that outshining all its rich and sweet reward. <span style="color: blue;"><strong> <br /><br />Sarah conceived and bare Abraham a son in his old age, <u><em>at the set time</em></u> of which God had spoken to him. (v.2)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Genesis - C. H. Mackintosh </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9140</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Who is this King of glory? The Lord strong and mighty, the Lord mighty in battle. Psalm 24:8 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">David and Goliath's unequal battle--the shepherd lad without a sword or spear meeting the mighty giant of the Philistines striding proudly with his spear and sword and shield to mortal combat in the valley of Elah--is one of the striking pictures in the Old Testament of Golgotha.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">David was misjudged by his brethren. Eliab, his eldest brother, said in anger, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Why camest thou down hither? and with whom hast thou left those few sheep in the wilderness? I know thy pride and the naughtiness of thine heart; for thou art come down that thou mightest see the battle" (1 Samuel 17:28)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> What stinging sarcasm and evil surmising! How untrue the charge of pride and idle curiosity! David was one of the noblest examples of meekness and lowliness in the Scriptures.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"To see the battle"?</strong></span> There was no battle till David came. There would have been no battle had he not come. David was there because his father sent him. David was there because he was needed there. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">David despised Goliath. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?" (v.17:26)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. David was fired with zeal for the dishonour that was done to the name of God. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield; but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied" (v.17:45).</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">See the courage and the confidence of David as he meets the towering giant. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"David hastened, and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine" (v.17:48)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. How soon it was all over! Goliath, like Dagon his god, lay stretched out with his face upon the earth. In the forehead of his pride, Goliath was pierced with the stone from David's sling. Before the men of Israel could scarcely get their breath, there was David standing on the carcass of the giant, swinging above his head the sword he had pulled from Goliath's sheath. . . . <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"But there was no sword in the hand of David" (v.17:50)</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">A Plant of Renown - Leonard Sheldrake </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9141</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Take care of him. Luke10:35<br /><br />Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you. 1 Peter 5:7</strong></span><br /><br />Has anyone else ever stood before you and said, "Give me your care"? Many have come, it may be, and asked for your friendship, or your society, or your entertainment, or for some benefit; but did anyone want your care? No; they would not like you to bring your care into their company.<br /><br />"Come with a bright face," they say; "make us happy with your sparkling wit and lively conversation." But here is One who asks for your company in order to relieve you of your care. He does not even say, "Cast your care away," but He invites you to cast it upon Him. Could anything be more calculated to touch us? And He says <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"all"</strong></span> your care. <br /><br />It is not even that He promises to help us to bear it. This word carries us infinitely beyond that. Often we try to bear our cares, and ask God, as it were, to carry us and our cares. <br /><br />We are like the man of Ganton, of whom we read, that he was riding to market with a sack of flour, when suddenly he was filled with remorse at the weight his horse had to carry; so without getting off, he lifted the sack upon his own back. <br /><br />Foolish man, to add to his own burden without lightening that of his horse! And are we any wiser when we keep the burden that we might cast upon God, and instead of riding to heaven without a featherweight of care, we go heavily laden. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Angels in White - Russell Elliott </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9142</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>I have rejoiced in the way of Thy testimonies, as much as in all riches. (Psalm 119:14)</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Joseph, a dear Christian and his wife, were driving on a highway on the outskirts of Beirut at a time of political unrest and war. He happened to see a large suitcase lying on the side of the road. In that part of the world with its war, terrorism and political unrest the only safe, wise thing to do would be to assume the suitcase was a roadside bomb and get away as fast and as far as possible. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But Joseph felt the Lord was compelling him to stop and pick up the suitcase. He did. When they arrived home he opened it to find that it was completely stuffed full of money. He also found an identification tag including a person's name, address and phone number. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Joseph's phone call was eventually answered. Identifying himself, Joseph asked to speak with the person whose name was written on the suitcase tag. A very sad sounding voice answered the phone. Joseph asked, "Sir, have you lost something?" </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">A tremulous voice responded; "Have you found it?" Further conversation revealed that the man and his family had been fleeing the country when, en-route, the suitcase was lost. A reunion with the suitcase and its owner was arranged. In a short time the relieved man man stood at Joseph's door. With him was his whole family, brought to meet such a rare person--a truly honest man. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">As they sat talking together in Joseph's living room, he quietly said to the thankful family, "You may believe you have recovered your treasure. But remember, just how passing a treasure this really is. With the fragile state of our country, fighting, terrorism and political discontent, this suitcase full of money could easily become completely worthless <wbr></wbr>overnight. "Pausing for a moment, he continued; "Allow me to give you the truly greatest, most enduring treasure you will ever have. Read it, believing what you read. It is the only real treasure you can never lose." Joseph handed the man his Bible.<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I have esteemed the words of His mouth more than my necessary food" (Job 23:12). "The words that I speak unto you . . . they are life." (John 6:60)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"> The Christian Shepherd - December 2006 </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9143</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>There shall come in the last days scoffers, walking after their own lusts, and saying, where is the promise of His coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation. (2 Peter 3:3-4)</strong></span><br /><br />It is always when people want to follow their own lusts that they begin to scoff. It may not be outward and gross lusts, but man wants to be independent, to gratify himself, and therefore he thinks he must get rid of God, get rid of His authority; and he would be glad to get rid of God out of the scene altogether if he could.<br /><br />These scoffers say, The only thing that is durable and abiding is creation. It began far away in remote space; how it came we do not know exactly, but it came, and it goes on, and as for the promise of the coming of the Son of God, it is absurd. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Where is the the promise of His coming?"</strong></span> they say scoffingly. Judging by appearances, they say that there is no change since the beginning. This is false. The eye of man may not have detected any change, but the Word of God assures us that there has been. <br /><br />But if they scoff at the Lord's coming, they are obliged to let in creation, and if creation comes in there must be the Creator, and who is the Creator? There they are silenced. <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For this they willingly are ignorant of, that by the word of God the heavens were of old, and the earth standing out of the water and in the water. Whereby the world that then was, being overflowed with water, perished." (v.5,6)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Simon Peter - W. T. P. Wolston</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9144</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by men, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised Him from the dead;) Galatians 1:1</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Paul was an apostle from the resurrection side of the cross: an apostle from the glory: and we will find that all his writings bear his character. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Our conversation (</strong>citizenship)<strong> is in heaven." (Philippians 3:20)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. Our inheritance is in heaven </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Ephesians 1:11)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. We are to </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"seek those things which are above (Colossians 3:1)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Set your affections on things above". (Colossians 3:2)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>Power and authority to raise the dead is certain proof of power and authority to send forth His servants</u>. It was after His resurrection that the Lord said, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"All power is given unto unto Me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore." (Matthew 28:18,19)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">May we each be able to say, That is the mark; that is the badge; that is the sign of the authority that sends me forth, even the resurrection power, the mighty power of God, the One that raised our Lord Jesus Christ out from among the dead. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">This is the first time the epistle refers to the death of our Lord Jesus Christ, and it is to tell out that Paul's authority and apostleship are in resurrection power. <u>It is this power, this authority, that we need today</u>. <br /><br />Paul's authority was not Christ </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>and</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Peter; or Christ <em><strong>and</strong></em> the apostles; or Christ <em>and</em> any man. <u>Paul's authority and commission were from Jesus Christ and God the Father alone</u>. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>No man</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> added anything to his authority or his commission. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Meditations on Galatians - G. C. Willis </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9145</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 18px;"><em>The Double Reason </em></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">"Fear not . . . thou art mine . . . I am thy God . . . thy Saviour" Isaiah 43:1-3</span></strong><br /><br /> Fear not, though the dangers around thee,<br />Come close and look large and grow great; <br />I will make thee a way through the waters<br />Till their force and their fury abate;<br />I will walk through the furnace beside thee<br />And the flame shall not burn, but refine. <br />I have called thee and I have redeemed thee!<br />Fear not, thou art Mine.<br /><br />Fear not; there is naught that can harm thee,<br />Though evils increase, more and more<br />Though the prey there is none to deliver<br />The spoil there is none to restore. <br />The power shall pass from the mighty,<br />The strength of the foe shall decline;<br />When I work, there is none that can hinder;<br />Fear not, I am thine. <br /><br />Fear not; I have called thee and named thee,<br />Thou art precious and dear unto Me; <br />I have chosen thee, loved thee and saved thee<br />My praise and My glory to be. <br />I have given My life for thy ransom, <br />My blood is the seal and the sign; <br />Thy Saviour, Thy God, Thy Redeemer--<br />Fear not; thou art Mine; I am thine. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Flint's Best-loved Poems</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9146</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ. But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us. 2 Corinthians 4:6-7 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When we come to realize how wretched the flesh within us is, then we need to see that God is teaching us to look away from ourselves and unto Christ. As we look unto Him, His moral features will be impressed upon us. Some of these features are obedience and dependence upon God, patience, meekness, self control, and many others. In <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Galatians 5:22-23</strong></span>, we see these features presented as the fruit of the Holy Spirit being worked out practically in the life of the believer. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Paul explains that our bodies which he calls </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"earthen vessels,"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> contain this special treasure of Christ dwelling in every believer. Then, as the vessel is broken, as self is set aside, the light shines out. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Here is something else to consider: in <span style="color: blue;"><strong>2 Corinthians 5:10</strong></span>, the apostle Paul reminds us that <strong><u>we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ</u></strong>. Every thing we have done in our lifetime will be manifested then in the light of His holy presence. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Our motives, our self-seeking--even when it is mixed with our service for the Lord--will be manifested. What was done in secret or in public, at the work place or at home, in private counselling or in public preaching, all will be laid bare. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u><strong>But remember, when we stand before the judgment seat of Christ, our sinful nature is no longer in us</strong></u>. Then we will be with and like Christ, and we will rejoice that <u>our old selfish and sinful nature is once and forever gone</u>. Only what was of Christ will remain forever. Day by day, as we walk our wilderness pathway here, let us seek to please Him, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith" Hebrews 12:2</strong></span>. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Jacob Redekop </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9147</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Then Jonah prayed unto the Lord his God out of the fish's belly, and said, I cried by reason of mine affliction unto the Lord, and He heard me; out of the belly of hell cried I, and Thou heardest my voice. Jonah 2:1-2</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Yes, wonder of wonders, God is ever ready to hear, and ever ready to forgive. The cloud and the darkness are all on our side: our God has not changed. One can but watch with adoring wonder to see the patience and wisdom of God in dealing with His erring servant. Time and again He gave him warning and opportunity to cry to Him for pardon and help. <br /><br />God does not give him up, even when the sight of death itself will not force him to yield. This God is our God; how much better for us to fall at His feet and pour out the whole story of our sin and failure, and cry to Him for mercy and forgiveness. We will surely find that, like, the writer of <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Psalm 116:1-2</strong></span> (who had found trouble and sorrow), we too, may exclaim with adoring wonder, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I love the Lord, because He hath heard my voice and my supplications. Because He hath inclined His ear unto me, therefore will I call upon Him as long as I live."</strong></span><br /><br />But let us listen further to Jonah's prayer. What an immense privilege to be able to stand by and hear this prayer out of the fish's belly: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For Thou hadst cast me into the deep, in the midst of the seas;" (v.2:3)</strong></span> There is not a suggestion that it was the sailors that cast him into the sea: No, Jonah knew better than that. It was God, and God only, who had cast Jonah into the sea, and he acknowledged it. <br /><br />Why would God do such a thing as this? Was it cruel on His part to do so? Oh, no! This was the way home, and the only way home, for this particular prodigal son. It was not until he got into the fish, and had been there for three days and nights <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"that he came to himself"(Luke 15:17)</strong></span>. Whether it is the pigs, or whether it is the fish, God has His ways to make His people come to themselves. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Jonah - G. C. Willis </strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9148</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:<br /><br />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. <br /><br />Wherefore comfort one another with these words. 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">If you reject Christ now you will have no desire to accept Him in that coming day. You are in the most dangerous position in which anyone could be. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He that being often reproved hardeneth his neck shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy" (Proverbs 29:1)</strong></span>. <br /><br />Some of the saddest funerals I have ever had to conduct in my life have been funerals of young men or women who were members of Christian families, who had often been pleaded with to come to Christ; but they had gone on in carelessness, hoping that everything would come out all right in the end. Then suddenly they were struck down, perhaps by accident, and they went out into eternity leaving no testimony, <br /><br />Young men and young women, I plead with you, do not allow another day to pass without coming to Christ, lest the near future find you forever beyond all hope of mercy. God has given you the opportunity to believe the truth. He has presented His Word, but if you turn away from that truth and refuse to believe the gospel, then God Himself may give you up to judicial judgment that you should believe the lie of the man of sin and so be forever lost. <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (John 3:16)</strong></span> </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Thessalonians - H. A. Ironside</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9149</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Be ye also patient; stablish your hearts: for the coming of the Lord draweth nigh. James 5:8<br /><br />He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the Lord. Psalm 112:7 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">There are two things which constitute the joy of a Christian. They are his strength on the road and the object constantly before his heart: </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">First</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, present communion and fellowship with God the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ. </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Second</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, the hope of the coming of the Lord. These two cannot be separated without loss to our souls, for we cannot have all the profit without both of them. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">If we are not looking for the coming of the Lord, nothing else can separate us in the same way from this present evil world. Christ will not Himself be so much the object before the soul, nor yet shall we be able, in the same measure, to apprehend the mind and counsels of God about the world if there be not this waiting for His Son from heaven. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Again, if this hope be looked at apart from present communion and fellowship with God, we shall not have present power. The heart will be enfeebled by the mind being too much occupied and overborne by the evil around. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>For we cannot be really looking for God's Son from heaven without at the same time seeing the world's utter rejection of Him</u>. We see that the world itself is going wrong, its wisemen have no wisdom--all is going on to judgment, the principles of evil are loosening all bands. <br /><br />The soul thus becomes oppressed and the heart sad; but if through grace the Christian is in present communion and fellowship with God, his soul stands steady and is calm and happy before God because there is a fund of blessing in Him which no circumstance can ever touch or change. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. N. Darby</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9150</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1<br /> <br />Therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea. (Psalm 46:2) <br /><br />And Abraham rose up early in the morning...and went unto the place which God had told him. (Genesis 22:3) </strong></span><br /><br />There is ready obedience. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I made haste and delayed not to keep Thy commandments." (Psalms 119:60)</strong></span> Faith never stops to look at circumstances, or ponder results; it only looks at God; it expresses itself thus: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother's womb, and called me by His grace, to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the heathen; immediately I conferred not with flesh and blood." (Galatians 1:15,16)</strong></span> <br /><br />The moment we confer with flesh and blood, our testimony and service are marred, for flesh and blood can never obey. <u>We must rise early, and carry out, through grace, the divine command</u>. Thus we are blessed, and God is glorified. Having God's own word as the basis of our acting, will ever impart strength and stability to our acting. <br /><br /><u>If we merely act from impulse, when the impulse subsides, the acting will subside also</u>. There are two things needful to a course of steady and consistent action, viz., <u>the Holy Ghost</u> <u>as the power of action</u>, and <u>the Word</u> to <u>give proper direction</u>. <br /><br />On a railway, we should find steam of little use without the iron rails firmly laid down: <u>the former is the power by which we move</u>; and t<u>he later, the direction</u>. It is needless to add that the rails would be of little use without the steam. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Notes on Genesis - C. H. Mackintosh</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9151</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>I do set my <u>bow</u> in the cloud, and it shall be a token of a covenant between Me and the earth...the <u>bow</u> shall be seen in the cloud: and I will remember my covenant, which is between Me and you and every living creature...and I will look upon it, that I may remember the everlasting covenant..." </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Genesis 9:13-16.</strong></span> <br /><br /><u>We must not speculate where we cannot teach</u>; <u>we must not listen where we cannot learn from <strong><em>Him</em></strong></u>. His Written Word is the standard of the thoughts of all His saints, while some have that Word more largely made the possession of their souls, through the Spirit, than others. We are to know the common standard, and also our personal measure in the Spirit. <br /><br />Though we see not those distant regions, we may trust them--trust Him, rather, who is the Lord of them. We may assure our hearts in His presence, that they will be just what we would have them to be, just what our new conditions would ask for. Heaven has always been what the earth needed. <br /><br />At the beginning, the <u>sun</u> was there to rule the day, and the <u>moon</u> and the <u>stars</u> to govern the night. <u>Those ordinances were set in heaven then, for they measured the earth's need then</u>. But there was <u>no rainbow</u> in the sky, for the earth needed not a token that God would debate with judgment. Judgment was not known. <br /><br />But when conscience had been quickened, and judgment was understood and feared, when God was known (in the doings He had accomplished) to be <em><strong>righteous</strong></em>, and earth needed a pledge that in wrath He would remember mercy, heaven wore the token of that mercy, and hung it out as on its very forehead. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Son of God - J. G. Bellett</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9152</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;">And when the sixth hour was come, there was darkness over the whole land until the ninth hour. Mark 15:33 </span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">The long and sinful history of man was compressed into the three hours of darkness that surrounded the cross. Our sins and guilt were laid upon Jesus the holy Victim, as He hung suspended there. All God's wrath and indignation against sin were poured out upon Him, when He took the penalty of our sin--death and judgment--which we so rightly deserved.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"For He hath made Him to be sin for us" (2 Corinthians 5:21)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; and again, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"For Christ also hath once, suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God, being put to death in the flesh, but quickened by the Spirit." (1 Peter 3:18)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">From God's standpoint then, the moral history of man came to an ignominious end on the cross. But while the cross is the end of man's moral history, it also marks the beginning of a new life in Christ for all who believe. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Therefore if any man be in Christ, He is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new" (2 Corinthians 5:17). </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> There must be, then, clear evidence of this new creation life in Christ. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">For that reason, Paul exhorts, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"That ye put off concerning the former conversation (conduct), the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts...and that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness." (Ephesians 4:22-24)</strong></span>. <br /><br />Finally, it is evident that if God would save anyone now, it must be entirely according to His sovereign grace and mercy, and on the basis of Christ's death of substitution on the cross. We must come to God through Christ, confessing our spiritual and moral bankruptcy, lay hold on the mercy which He extends, and accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Richard A. Barnett </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9153</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">And He ordained twelve, <u>that they </u></span></strong></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><u>should be with Him</u>, and that He might send them forth to preach. </strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Mark 3:14 <br /><br />Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus. Acts 4:13 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We have an illustration of the effects that the officers took knowledge of Peter and John that they had been with Jesus, because these two men of God carried with them the fragrance of the One in Whose presence they had been dwelling. <br /><br />For us today who have not access to His physical presence, the whole secret is enshrined in a word which occurs three times in the New Testament; the word <em>metamorphoomai. </em></span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Matthew 17:2 </strong></span></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">where it is translated </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"<u>transfigured</u>"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; in </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Romans 12 :2</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, where it is rendered </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"<u>transformed</u>"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> and in </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>2 Corinthians 3:18</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> where it appears </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"<u>changed</u> "</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. <br /><br />The first of these occurrences shows the pattern <strong><em>to</em></strong> which; the second, principle <strong><em>upon</em></strong> which; and the third, the power <em><strong>by</strong></em> which we are transformed.<span style="color: blue;"><strong> "But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are <u><em>changed</em></u> into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord" (2 Corinthians 3:18)</strong></span>.<br /><br />The transformation produces the fragrance. Samuel Rutherford prayed that the Rose of Sharon growing in his heart, might shed its fragrance abroad in his life; and wherever he went, he scattered abroad the perfume of the knowledge of God. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Winsome Christianity </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9154</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>When thou passest through the waters...they shall not overflow thee. Isaiah 43:2</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">God does not open paths for us in advance of our coming. He does not promise help before help is needed. He does not remove obstacles out of our way before we reach them. Yet when we are on the edge of our need, God's hand is stretched out. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Many people forget this, and are forever worrying about difficulties which they foresee in the future. They expect that God is going to make the way plain and open before them, miles and miles ahead; whereas He has promised to do it only step by step as they may need. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">You must get to the waters and into their floods before you can claim the promise. Many people dread death, and lament that they have not "dying grace." Of course, they will not have dying grace when they are in good health, in the midst of life's duties, with death far in advance. Why should they have it then? Grace for duty is what they need then, living grace; then dying grace when they come to die--J.R.M.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="color: blue;">"When thou passest through the waters"</span> deep the waves may be and cold,<br />But Jehovah is our refuge, and His promise is our hold; <br />For the Lord Himself hath said it, He, the faithful God and true:<br />"When thou comest to the waters thou shalt not go down, BUT THROUGH. <br /><br />Seas of sorrow, seas of trial, bitterest anguish, fiercest pain,<br />Rolling surges of temptation sweeping over heart and brain-- <br />They shall never overflow us for we know His word is true; <br />All His waves and all His billows He will lead us safely through.<br /><br />Threatenings breakers of destruction, doubt's insidious undertow,<br />Shall not sink us, shall not drag us out to ocean depths of woe;<br />For His promise shall sustain us, Praise the Lord, whose Word is true!<br />We shall not go down or under, for He saith, "Thou passest THROUGH."</span></em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">A. J. Flint </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9155</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Jesus answered and said unto them, verily I say unto you, if ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done. </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Matthew 21:21)</strong></span><br /><br /><em><strong>This mountain</strong></em>. What mountain? What does <span style="color: blue;"><em><strong>"this mountain"</strong></em></span> mean to me today? I have been thinking of this, and several mountains seem to be in much need of removal. Oh, to see them cast into the sea, to see them sink like stones there and never reappear! <br /><br />Sometimes our mountains seem to be removed--<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Be thou removed"</strong></span>, we said in earnest prayer, together or alone; and they did indeed appear to be transported bodily, and to fall with a glorious splash into the sea; and then it was as though they were made of cork or some such substance, for we had no sooner rejoiced over their disappearance, than they reappeared as solid as ever, and sat down where they where before. <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise." (Hebrews 10:36)</strong></span>. <u>The will of God most clearly is prayer and continuance in prayer</u>. (There would be no need of continuance or of patience if mountains had not this habit of reappearing.)<br /><br />God give it to us always to <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"pray, and not to faint."</strong></span> (</span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><em>never lose heart</em></span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">) <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward." (Hebrews 10:35)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Edges of His Ways - Amy Carmichael </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9156</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">"One thing have I desired . . . to behold the beauty of the Lord, and to enquire in His temple." Psalm 27:4 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Jesus! Thou art enough the mind and heart to fill;<br />Thy patient life--to calm the soul, Thy love--its fear dispel. <br /><br />O fix our earnest gaze so wholly, Lord, on Thee,<br />That, with Thy beauty occupied, we elsewhere none may see. </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">A heart possessed of Christ is fortified against the most seductive allurements of the world. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The state of our souls may be discerned by the effect produced upon us by the name of Jesus.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Christ Himself is to be our great example of faith, of a life of dependence upon God. If the holiest man that ever lived were to fill our vision it would only hinder and not help us. <br /><br />Whenever we speak to one another of Christ He will always be one of the company. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another." </strong><em><strong>(Malachi 3:16).</strong></em></span> Do our hearts long for His presence? Then let us speak together of Him more. <br /><br />We feed on Christ by the appropriation of Him in every character that He is presented to us. The whole life of our blessed Lord as man is compressed into the words, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He humbled Himself." (Philippians 2:8)</strong></span> <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye Him."(Matthew 17:5) </strong></span>Christ is the sole authority in the Kingdom. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Edward Dennett</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9157</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord. Job 1:21</strong></span><br /><br />We are indeed to submit ourselves to God <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(James 4:7)</strong></span>, but such submission does not mean timid cringing as under a tyrant. God is not a taskmaster but our Father. <br /><br />When trials come, we may submit because we have to and there is nothing else we can do. A better word here is <em><strong>acceptance</strong></em>. We accept God's dealings as Job did though we may not understand. <br /><br />It is not mere resignation to what cannot be helped but taking what comes, convinced that it is part of the </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 18px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"<em><u>all things</u></em></strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong> work together for good to them that love God."</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Romans 8:28)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">All The Days - Vance Havner</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9158</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him. <br />1 John 4:9</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>We love Him, because He first loved us. 1 John 4:19</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">First, <u>He loves us</u>. Then the discovery of this <u>leads us to love Him</u>, Then, because He loves us, <u>He claims us</u>, and desires to <u>have us</u> <u>wholly yielded</u> to His will, so that the operations of love in and for us may have no hindrance. Then, because we love Him we recognize His claim and yield ourselves. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Then, being thus yielded, <u>He draws us</u> nearer to Him and <u>admits us</u>, so to speak, into <u>closer intimacy</u>, so that we gain nearer and truer views of His perfections. Then the unity of these perfections becomes clearer to us. <br /><br />Now we not only see His justice and mercy flowing in an undivided stream from the cross of Christ, but we see that they never were divided, though the strange distortions of the dark, false glass of sin made them appear so, but that both are but emanations of God's Holy love.<br /><br />Then having known and believed this holy love, we see further that His will is not a separate thing, but only love (and therefore all His attributes) in action; love being the primary essence of His being, and all the other attributes manifestations and combinations of that ineffable essence, for <u>God is love</u>. <br /> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>He hath loved thee, and He knows all thy fears and all thy foes; <br />Victor thou shalt surely be ever through His love to thee.<br />Rest in quiet joy on this--greater love hath none than His:<br />And may this thy life-song be, love to Him that loveth thee!</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Francis Ridley Havergal </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9159</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">For the Lord will pass through to smite the </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">Egyptians; and when He seeth the blood upon the lintel, and on the two side posts, the Lord will pass over the door, and will not suffer the destroyer to come in unto your houses to smite you. Exodus 12:23 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The "destroyer" was going to pass through the land of Egypt to kill the firstborn of every house. He was representative of Jehovah, an angelic being who had the power to destroy with death. Hence sometimes this "destroyer" is called, "the angel of death." This angel of death </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong style="font-size: 16px;"><em>passed over</em></strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> the houses in Egypt that were marked with blood. <u>The blood would signify to him that a death had already occurred in that house and so he would move on without inflicting judgment</u>. However, no one had died except a lamb! <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(v.12:5)</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The firstborn of each Israelite house was was <u>safe, irrespective of their state or feelings</u>. Imagine two different Israelite houses on that night in Egypt. In one, there was a boy who was afraid that he might die when the angel passed over; perhaps the angel wouldn't see the blood, or perhaps his parents had not applied the blood correctly or sufficiently. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In another house there was a boy who had full confidence that the angel would see the blood and pass over. In the morning light, both boys were very much alive. The destroyer did not look at the heart's state of the boys that night, with one in fear and trembling, the other confident and happy. He looked at one thing and one thing only: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>the blood</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. <u>Our salvation is not due to our inward state but rather to Christ having made a propitiation for our sins</u>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">During the night those in these Hebrew houses were also doing something else. They were feeding upon a roasted lamb </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(v.12:8)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. This would give them energy for the journey which lay ahed of them. This Lord's Day, let us once again appreciate the blood of the Lamb, and feed upon His grace in order to sustain us for the coming week. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Brian Reynolds - The Lord is Near</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9160</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we are not careful to answer thee in this matter. If it be so, our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it know unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up. Daniel 3:16-18 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were first faced with the challenge, they knew instinctively that they could not comply. Either God was God, or this idol was god, and they had no doubts as to what they had to do. However the system showed some patience with them. It gave them a cooling-off period, so to speak, to reconsider the awfulness of falling down into a furnace alive, and to imagine just what they would suffer before death took over. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">So Nebuchadnezzar offered them a second chance to comply, and to worship his golden image. Faced with a situation like this, some might have reasoned that, since Nebuchadnezzar was a madman, they would not seriously give up their true God, but for the sake of peace, they could make a show of compliance. It would have been so much easier for them to go along with this charade, but here again they refused. <br /><br />When we are first faced with a challenge to our faith, we tend to respond instinctively, and this usually proves to be the correct response. But given the opportunity to think it over, it is amazing just how many compromises come to mind--all of them with some seeming merit that would allow us to save face, and our masters to save face, and for everyone to end up happy. <br /><br />After all, who wants to be branded a trouble-maker, and doesn't Scripture say that we are to submit to the powers that be? <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(1 Peter 2:13)</strong></span> But the Christian must reject any attempt to soften his position, or to compromise his faith. And we must be prepared to face the consequences of our non-compliance. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Daniel - William Burnett <br /> </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9161</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>And when Abram was ninety years old and nine, the Lord appeared to Abram, and said unto him,</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>I <em>am</em> the almighty God; <u>walk before Me</u></strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Genesis 17:1<br /><br />"Walk before <u><em>Me.</em></u>" </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">This is true power. To walk thus, implies our having nothing whatever before our hearts save God Himself. If I am founding my expectation upon men and things, I am not walking before God, but before men and things. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It is of the utmost importance to ascertain who or what I have before me as an object. To what am I looking? On whom or what am I leaning, at this moment? Does God <strong><em>entirely</em></strong> fill my future? Have men or circumstances aught to do therein? Is there any space allotted to the creature? </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The only way in which to get above the world is to walk by faith, because faith so completely fills the scene with God that there is no room for the creature--no room for the world. If God fills up my entire range of vision, I can see nothing else; and them I am able to say, with the Psalmist,</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"My soul, wait thou <em>only</em> upon God; for my expectation is from Him. He <em>only</em> is my rock and my salvation: He is my defence, I shall not be moved." (Psalm 62:5,6)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> This word </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>"only"</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> is deeply searching. Nature cannot say this. Not that it will, save when under the direct influence of a daring and blasphemous scepticism, formally shut out God altogether; but it assuredly cannot say,<strong> <span style="color: blue;">"<em>He</em> <em>only</em>."</span></strong> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Genesis - C. H. Mackintosh</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9162</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>And Jesus saith to Simon Peter, Simon, son of Jonas, lovest thou Me more than these? John 21:15</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"The Lord is risen indeed, and hath appeared to Simon." (Luke 24:34) </strong></span>This was confirmed long after by the apostle Paul, when he wrote to the Corinthians that the risen Christ appeared to Cephas (Peter), then to the disciples. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(1 Corinthians 15:5)</strong></span> Wonderful love that with tender mercy gave the first interview to the most failing disciple. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In the first interview Peter's conscience was relieved; in <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(John 21)</strong></span> his heart is restored. Then the Lord dealt with the outward failure; now He deals with the inward root--confidence in his love to Christ. The threefold question thoroughly exposes this root. It is as if the Lord said, After all that has happened, do you still maintain, Peter, that you <strong style="color: blue;">"lovest Thou Me more than these"</strong> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(John 21:15)</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">With the second question, the Lord says nothing of the other disciples: it is simply now, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Lovest thou Me?" </strong></span>With the third question, the Lord, using a different word, asks, Art thou attached to me? By his third answer Peter puts himself entirely into the Lord's hands, saying, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Lord, Thou knowest all things; Thou knowest that I am </strong></span><strong>(attached)</strong> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>to Thee." (v.17)</strong></span> It is as if Peter said, "I cannot trust my love, or talk of my love, or what I will do, but Lord, thou knowest all things. Thou knowest my heart. I will leave Thee to estimate my love, and tell me what to do.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">No longer is Peter telling the Lord in self-confidence what he is ready to do, but it is the Lord in infinite grace telling His restored disciple what He will enable him to do. The Lord, as it were, says, "You no longer trust in your love to do great things for Me, you have left it to Me; then go forth and <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Feed My sheep" (v.17)</strong></span>, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Glorify God" (v.19)</strong></span>. and <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Follow Me." (v.19)</strong></span>.<br /><br />The Lord seems to say, Time was when you thought you loved Me more than these other disciples; now go forth and show your love by feeding My sheep that I love. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">H. Smith</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9163</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>(achieving)</strong></span></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong> for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. 2 Corinthians 4:17 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Is achieving for us. The question is repeatedly asked--Why is the life of a Christian drenched with so much blood, and blistered with so many tears? The answer is to be found in the word <strong>"achieving"</strong>; These things are achieving for us something precious. They are teaching us not only the way to victory, but better still the laws of victory. There is a compensation in every sorrow, and the sorrow is working out the compensation. It is the cry of the dear old hymn: <br /><br /><em><strong>"Nearer my God to Thee, nearer to Thee,<br />E'en tho' it be a cross that raiseth me."</strong></em> <br /><br />Joy sometimes needs pain to give it birth. Fanny Crosby may never have written her beautiful hymn, <em><strong>"I Shall See Him Face to Face,"</strong></em> were it not for the fact that she had never looked upon the green fields nor the evening sunset nor the kindly twinkle in her mother's eye. It was the loss of her own vision that helped her to gain her remarkable spiritual discernment. <br /><br />It is the tree that suffers that is capable of polish. When the woodman wants some curved lines of beauty in the grain he cuts down some maple that has been gashed by the axe and twisted by the storm. In this way he secures the knots and the hardness that take the gloss. <br /><br />It is comforting to know that sorrow tarries only for the night; it takes its leave in the morning. A thunder storm is very brief when put alongside the long summer day. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Weeping may endure for the night, but joy cometh in the morning." (Psalm 30:5)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Songs in the Night</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9164</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 28</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Thou art with me. Psalm 23:4</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">COMPANIONSHIP-- </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Thou art with me"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. Till now, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Psalm 23:1-3)</strong></span> David had been speaking <strong><em>of</em></strong> the Shepherd; but as the valley of death's shade is approached he begins to speak <em><strong>to</strong></em> Him. Instead of saying </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"He"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> he says </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"<em>Thou</em> art with me." </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">The word of confidence which David uses here, is transmuted for us into a word of promises by our Lord. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I am with you <em><u>always</u></em>,"</strong></span> He says <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Matthew 28:20)</strong></span>; and again, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I will <u><em>never</em></u> leave thee nor forsake thee" (Hebrews 13:5)</strong></span>. Come dark valley or bright sunshine, green pasture or desert land--<em><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I am with you <u>always</u>"</strong></span></em>.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">That is a fact, irrespective of the strength or weakness of our faith; apart from, and entirely independent of, what we feel. Our feelings may change as frequently as do the winds; our experience of the blessedness of the promise may rise or fall as frequently as do the tides; but the promise and the Promiser abide. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">A man once came to a preacher, and said to him: "I was filled with joy in the meeting yesterday, and now it is all gone--</span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">all</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">--and I do not know what to do. It is dark as night." "I am so glad," was the reply. He looked at the servant of Christ with astonishment, and said: "What do you mean?" </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"Yesterday, God gave you joy, and today He sees you are resting on your emotions instead of on Christ, and He has taken them away in order to turn you to Christ. You have lost your joy, but </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>you have Christ none the less</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. Did you ever pass through a railway tunnel?" "Yes, often." "Did you, because it was dark, become melancholy and alarmed?" "Of course not." "And did you, after awhile, come out again into the light?"<br /><br /><strong><em>"I am out now,"</em></strong> he exclaimed, interrupting the servant of Christ; "it is all right--feelings or no feelings." </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Pearl of Psalms - George Henderson</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br /> N.J.Hiebert - 9165</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. </strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Luke 13:3 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">I remember a brother of mine returning from America, where he had been nearly all his life. I was a boy when he left, and twenty-five years had rolled by. <br /><br />Before he returned I had been converted, and of course I began to speak to him about his soul, as he was still unconverted. After a little conversation, he turned to me and said, "<u>Christians are so inconsistent with their profession that they stumble me</u>." </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"I admit that,"I replied; "but I would ask you, <u>is my inconsistency going to keep you out of hell</u>?" "I would not think that for a moment," he had to confess. No, for the man who takes this ground I have a simple answer. It is this. <u>You turn to the Lord, and be a consistent Christian</u>. <br /><br />Do not suppose because you see a flaw in the life of somebody else that that will justify your unbelief. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Quite possibly you may say, I know somebody who professed to be converted, and he fell away, hence I do not believe in conversion. Very likely. <br /><br />Did you ever see a bad bank-note, or a bad half-crown? Does that bad bank note prove that all bank notes are bad? You are not so foolish as to believe that. What does a bad bank-note prove? </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">A bad bank-note proves that there are millions of good ones, or the forger would not have troubled to produce it</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. <br /><br />Similarly the devil produces counterfeits of the real article, called a Christian, and when you think that one inconsistent man proves that all are false, you are guilty of great folly. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Seekers of Light - W. T. P. Wolston, M.D. </span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9166</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 30</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>And a superscription also was written over Him in letters of Greek, and Latin, and Hebrew, THIS IS THE KING OF THE JEWS. Luke 23:38 <br /><br />And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on Him, saying, if Thou be Christ, save Thyself and us. Luke 23:39. </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">You would not have thought that the poor fellow would have talked in that strain; You would not have thought a man in his serious position, in the jaws of death as it were, would have railed in such a manner. Another scripture tells us that both the malefactors did it </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Mark15:32)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">I do not doubt both of them were hardened enough to mock at the Saviour; they did not, you will notice, taunt each other; they both, however, derided Christ. <br /><br />Why, there is not a man that does not hate Christ at the bottom of his heart to begin with. Even a dying robber, just going to drop into a lost eternity, will spend his last breath in abusing Christ. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But note this, Christ, will spend His last breath in praying for those who have abused Him. <br /><br />If sin leads a man to abuse Christ, He in the goodness of His heart, spends His last breath praying for His murderers; and I think that was what wrought the great change in the heart of one dying thief, while the other dying wretch, untouched by grace, and abiding unbelief, says <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"If Thou be the Christ, save Thyself and us." (v. 39)</strong></span>.There was, alas! no faith in him towards Christ. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Seekers for Light - W. T. P. Wolston, M.D. </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>There is a stream of precious blood which flowed from Jesu's veins;<br />And sinners washed in that blest flood lose all their guilty stains.<br /><br />The dying thief rejoiced to see that Saviour in his day;<br />And by that blood, though vile as he, our sins are washed away.</em></strong> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">William Cowper</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> N.J.Hiebert - 9167</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 31</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in Me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for <u>without Me ye can do nothing</u>. John 15:5 </strong></span></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">How forgetful we are of that! The preacher goes out to face his audience to whom he has preached so frequently through the years, perhaps often from the very same passage of Scripture. He goes out with self-confidence, forgetting the need of prayer, of being before God for a time of heart searching lest anything, any root of bitterness, might have come up which might hinder the work of the Spirit of God. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He rushes to the platform and delivers his message--but his message had no power because he was not consciously abiding in the living Vine. A young preacher had been called to preach and had much confidence in his own ability. The people were watching him as he entered. <br /><br />He read his text, but his whole message went from him. He read the text again, and still he could not recall. He tried the third time, "I want to read my text again," hoping his message would come back. But all was blank so far as the message was concerned, and looking at the audience he said, "I am sorry; but I can't speak to you this morning."<br /><br />Down the stairs he went with bowed head and broken step. At the close an old man came to him and said, <strong><em>"Laddie, if you had gone up the way you came down, you might have come down the way you went up!</em></strong>" <br /><br />It is so easy to be self-confident and to believe that because we have done it before, of course we can do it again, and so we forget the need of constantly abiding, of ever being before Him in communion. And it is the same in every detail of Christian life.<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Abide in Me and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in Me." (John 15:4.)</strong></span> </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Gospel of John - H. A. Ironside</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9168</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>OVERCOMING FAITH</strong></span></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. 1 John 5:4 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The storms of life come and go. The winter weather is but for a short season. The dark squalls and gusting winds are passing phenomena. When they are gone, the rainbow of God's blessing and reassurance reminds us of His presence. The unique peace which He alone can provide for His people pervades our spirits. <br /><br />And the rest He promises us endures as our legacy. All of us have winter weather. We face those formidable interludes in life when everything looks dark and depressing. <br /><br />We all have times when our days are strewn with the apparent wreckage of wrong choices and derelict decisions. The best of men and women know what it is to be stripped down to the bedrock of sheer survival. <br /><br />Yet amid all such storms what a consolation to know our Father has His strong hand upon us for our own good. What an assurance to recognize that Christ can be counted on to control the final outcome of our apparent calamities. What a strength to see His gracious Spirit bring great glory and beauty out of what to us may have seemed only disastrous! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Songs of My Soul - W. Phillip Keller </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9169</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according His purpose. Romans 8:28 </strong></span><br /><br />It is one of the greatest triumphs of God that He has given the knowledge of His perfect goodness to many a frail man, so that the most difficult circumstances, the deepest bereavement of sorrow or suffering, cannot shake His confidence. Even Job said, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him." (Job 13:15)</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But we are permitted to go a step further. We know that whatever is brought upon the believer by God is not merely the product of divine goodness, but the positive plannings of divine love. However severe the trial and deep the pain and trying the exercise, it does but the more convince us of that clear, warm love that makes no mistakes. <br /><br />This love is so deeply concerned that the divine purpose should be worked out in us that it will not shrink from adopting means that may at the moment bring the tear to the eye and make the whole frame wince and quiver. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby." (Hebrews 12:11)</strong></span>. <br /><br />Ask that dying saint, racked with pain, lying, it may be, in a damp cottage with no earthly comfort; ask that bereaved one, out of whose life has passed forever with the silence of death the object of deepest affection; and each will answer, with brightening eye and kindling voice <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"The Lord is good." Nahum 1:7 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">A. J. Pollock </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">We cannot always trace the way where Thou our gracious Lord, dost move; <br />But we can always surely say, that God is love. <br /><br />When clouds hang o'er our darkened path, We'll check our dread, each doubt reprove; For here each saint sweet comfort hath, that God is love.</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>J. Bowring</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9170</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 3</span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-41820453142124285152023-02-01T08:30:00.035-05:002023-02-26T07:38:07.959-05:00Gems from February 2023<p> <strong style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus. John 11:5</strong></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br />Jesus does not want all His loved ones to be of one mould or colour. He does not seek uniformity. He will not remove our individuality; He only seeks to glorify it. He loved <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus."</strong></span> <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Jesus loved Martha."</strong></span> Martha is our Biblical example of a practical woman; <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Martha served".</strong></span> In that place is enshrined her character. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"And her sister."</strong></span> Mary was contemplative, <em>spending long hours in deep communion with the Lord</em>. <br /><br />We need the Marys as well as the Marthas--the deep contemplative souls, whose spirits shed a fragrant restfulness over the hard and busy streets. We need the souls who sit at Jesus' feet and listen to His word, and then interpret the sweet gospel to a tired and weary world. <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"And Lazarus."</strong></span> what do we know about him? Nothing! <em>Lazarus seems to have been undistinguished and commonplace.</em> Yet Jesus loved him. What a huge multitude come under the category of "<u><em>nobodies</em></u>"! Their names are on the register of births, and on the register of deaths, and the space between is a great obscurity. <br /><br />Thank God for the common place people! They turn our houses into homes; they make life restful and sweet. Jesus loves the common place. Here then is a great, comforting thought: we are all loved-- the brilliant and the commonplace, the dreamy and the practical.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Loved! then the way will not be drear, for One we know is ever near,<br />Proving it to our hearts so clear that we are loved.<br /><br />Loved when we sing the glad new song to Christ, for whom we've waited long,<br />With all the happy ransomed throng--for ever loved. </strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus."</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. H. Howett</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9109</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. . . . God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able." </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>1 Corinthians 10:12,13 </strong></span><br /><br />What we have to do, whether to Christians, to backsliders, or to sinners, is to maintain the attitude of God towards each of these classes. <br /><br />He never gives up one of His own, nor diminishes His love, though He does change His manner. As someone has said, <em><u>we do not cease to love, but we do not caress a naughty child</u></em>. <br /><br />The perfection of the christian life is absolute trust in God. All roads lead to this, and the one who reaches it in any measure will never be confounded. <br /><br />Waiting before the Lord is the sure means of qualification for obedience to His bidding. The fear of God can lift the feeblest and humblest above the fear of man. <br /><br /><u><em>Sympathy</em></u> is the rarest of all ministries, as it is also the sweetest; it makes no show in the world, but it leaves its mark. In praying for the sick I once heard a brother use this expression: "<em><u>May those who are too weak to <strong>pray</strong> be able to <strong>lean</strong>.</u></em>" <br /><br />Until the soul is at peace and in liberty divine things cannot be communicated. We get rest by a revelation of the Father's love through Christ. . . . There is no pillow like love, and we have the Lord's perfect love to rest upon. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">E. Dennett</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9110</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Upon the first day of the week let everyone of you lay by him in store as God hath prospered him. </strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>1 Corinthians 16:2 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Have you ever wondered why the Lord chose the first day of the week for us to lay aside something? Was it for convenience's sake? Was it because then we could just remember how our income was during the past week and give in relation to that? </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The first day of the week, Sunday, or the Lord's Day, is the day when the Lord rose from the dead. The disciples were together that day and the Lord revealed Himself to them. A week later, again on the first day of the week, the disciples being together, again the Lord revealed Himself to them. <br /><br />It became the practise that the believers met together on the first day of the week, and on that day they remembered the Lord in partaking of the bread and wine in memory of their Lord, and we continue this still today.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">As we take the bread and eat of it, we remember the death of the Lord on the cross, His body given as a sacrifice; and as we drink from the cup, we remember that God's holiness and righteousness have been satisfied in the matter of sin because the Lord shed His blood, gave His life, and died in our place. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We remember, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich. (2 Corinthians 8:9)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">As we reflect on His riches and HIs poverty and His great sacrifice, should this not affect our hearts in relation to what we give Him in our offering every first day of the week? Considering Him, our giving will not be a mechanical percentage, it will not be an obligatory custom of putting some money in the collection, but it will be an offering of gratitude, a sweet-smelling savour to God, an act of worship. <em><strong>A. Blok.</strong></em> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9111</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. Matthew 24:35 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Bibles are more plentiful today than they ever have been. The words of the Lord Jesus are better known and loved by a greater multitude today than ever before in the history of the world. The Gospels have been handed down by the noblest of earth, through rivers of blood, at the cost of liberty and life, in the history of every nation in Christendom.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Christians have fought by weakness, enemies as diverse as Herod, Pontius Pilate, and the people of Israel, and have always been victorious. The enemy, the devil, in one age, has prepared his weapons in the monasteries of superstition; in another he has conducted his warfare from the colleges of infidelity; but whether Greek or Jew, ignorant or intellectual, every weapon has failed. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Passed away! What has passed away? The kings of earth have passed away. The cruelty of the Inquisition and the scoffings of Voltaire have passed away. Whatever opposition may arise to God and His Word shall surely pass away: for the Son of Man who was the Son of God, said, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Heaven and earth shall pass away, but My words shall not pass away."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Let the ages answer. Let history come with the officers to the seat of power and learning. With one voice all will say, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Never man spake like this Man." (John 7:46)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. The Words of the Lord Jesus were often promises as well as declarations. They were promises that could be tested; promises that </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>have</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> been tested, thousands and thousands of times. Whoever found fault with </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Matthew 11:28? "Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">A Plant of Renown - Leonard Sheldrake</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9112</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And one of the malefactors which were hanged railed on Him . . . but the other answering rebuked him, saying, Dost not thou fear God, seeing thou art in the same condemnation? and we indeed justly; for we receive the due reward of our deeds: but this Man hath done nothing amiss. Luke 23:39-41</strong></span><br /><br />What genuine repentance is there manifested! The repentant malefactor took God's part against himself. To the other malefactor he said, <em>"you are a dying man, and I too, and we are justly punished"</em>. The man who is divinely converted always condemns himself. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"We indeed justly"</strong></span> is the language of real repentance. <br /><br />When we are not right ourselves we never employ <strong>"we."</strong> We can then use the word <strong>"you." </strong>This man, divinely taught, says, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"We indeed justly;"</strong></span> and then, conscious of the glory of the One who hung by his side, sinless but suffering, adds, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"but this Man hath done nothing amiss." </strong></span> It was a very striking confession. The world head it, God head it, Satan heard it.<br /><br />Do you think he was a fool or a wise man? He was a wise man; and any man who is not his companion is a fool. You say, that is bold. It is true; it is right. That man was right, and every man, who is unbelieving, is wrong. <br /><br />That repentant thief accepts the judgment of God upon him, condemns himself, and <u><strong>clears the character of Christ, when all had condemned Him</strong></u>. His life had been a sinful one, and he owns it, saying, I have sinned, and I am getting what I deserve; and then boldly confesses his faith in Jesus. <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"This man hath done nothing amiss," </strong></span>is his triumphant allegation. Thank God for the bold, true, glorious confession of that dying malefactor on the cross beside Jesus. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Seekers for Light</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> - </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">W.T. P. Wolston, M.D.</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9113</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Whosoever shall ask a petition of any God or man for thirty days save of thee, O king, he shall be cast into the den of lions. Daniel 6:7 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The word of God gave Daniel plain directions for the circumstances in which he found himself. Solomon's prayer at the dedication of the temple anticipated his difficulties <strong><span style="color: blue;">(1 Kings 8:47-49)</span>. . . </strong>In faith in God, Daniel acted according to the word of God. He refused to make any compromise. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">The carnal mind might suggest, "Why not close the window and pray in secret?" Refusing any such compromise, he prayed with his window open. But if he must pray with his window open, why select a front room facing towards the street? </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Without hesitation, he prayed in his room toward Jerusalem. But if he must pray with an open window toward Jerusalem, why need he go down on his knees? Could he not assume some other position that would not call attention to the fact that he was praying? No, Daniel would not give up the right attitude toward God; he knelt down. <br /><br />If then he was so strict that he must pray with his windows open, looking toward Jerusalem and kneeling upon his knees, what need was there for doing it three times a day? Surely he could pray early in the morning before anyone was abroad, or late in the evening after everyone had retired? Indeed, could he not for these thirty days give up praying by day and pray by night instead? God can see and hear in the dark. <br /><br />No such suggestions influence Daniel; he prays three times, and in the day. And though he is in captivity, and surrounded by those who are plotting for his life, he finds occasion to give thanks as well as to pray. <br /><br />Moreover, he prays and gives thanks <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"before his God."</strong></span> Men may see him praying, but it is before God, not men, that he prays. This was no new thing with Daniel. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Hamilton Smith</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9114</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>I waited patiently for the Lord; and He inclined unto me, and heard my cry. Psalm 40:1</strong></span><br /><br /><u>Waiting is much more difficult than walking</u>. Waiting requires patience, and patience is a rare virtue. It is fine to know that God builds hedges around His people--when the hedge is looked at from the viewpoint of protection. <br /><br />But when the hedge is kept around one until it grows so high that he cannot see over the top, and wonders whether he is ever to get out of the little sphere of influence and service in which he is pent up, it is hard for him sometimes to understand why he may not have a larger environment--hard for him to <em><strong>"brighten the corner"</strong></em> where he is. <br /><br />But God has a purpose in all HIS holdups. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"The steps of a good man are ordered of the Lord." (Psalm 37:23).</strong></span> On the margin of his Bible at this verse George Mueller had a notation, <em><strong>"And the stops also."</strong></em> It is a sad mistake for men to break through God's hedges. It is a vital principle of guidance for a Christian never to move out of the place in which he is sure God has placed him, until the <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Pillar of Cloud"</strong></span> moves <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Exodus 13:21). </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">When we learn to wait for our Lord's lead in everything, we shall know the strength that finds <u><em>its climax in an even, steady walk</em></u>. Many of us are lacking in the strength we so covet. God gives full power for every task He appoints. <u>Waiting, holding oneself true to His lead--this is the secret of strength</u>. And anything that falls out of the line of obedience is a waste of time and strength. Watch for His leading.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Must life be a failure for one compelled to stand still in enforced inaction. No; Victory is then to be gotten by standing still, by quiet waiting. It requires a grander heroism to stand and wait and not lose heart and hope, to submit to God's will, to be quiet, confident rejoicing. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"having done all, to stand." (Ephesians 6:13)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. R. Miller</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9115</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 16px;">HAVE YOU A RESERVATION?</span></em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">I go to prepare a pace for you. John 14:2</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>An inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you. </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>1 Peter 1:4</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">How good it is when the weary traveler can walk up to the hotel desk and find a room ready and waiting, while others may ask in vain--and all because his name is on the book; he made a reservation. <br /><br />We cannot walk up to the gate of heaven after death and obtain a dwelling-place merely by asking for it. Our abiding place up there is secured in advance while we are down here. Our Saviour has gone to prepare a place, but there are places only for those who make reservations. Is you name in the book?<br /><br />Many will come in that day and make various claims, but He will say, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I never knew you: depart from Me." (Matthew 7:23)</strong></span> The dying thief made a reservation: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Remember me." (Luke 23:42)</strong></span> Reservations are made, not on the basis of our merit, but on His merit and our simple faith in Him.<br /><strong>Have you a reservation?</strong> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Day by Day by Vance Havner </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>O what will you do with Jesus? the call comes low and clear;<br />The solemn words are sounding in every listening ear;<br />Immortal life's in the question, and joy through eternity:<br />Then what will you do with Jesus? O, What will the answer be?</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Nathaniel Norton</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9116</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>YOU COULD BE MISTAKEN</em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Man's goings are of the Lord; how can a man then understand his own way? Proverbs 20:24 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Even this difficulty he meets, for </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"He declareth unto man what is His thought." (Amos 4:13)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> But are you willing to let Him do this? He may show you that those who have, as you suppose, misunderstood you, may have guessed right after all. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He may show you that your desire was not so honest, your motives not so single as you fancied; that there was self-will where you only recognized resolution, sin where you only recognized infirmity or mistake. <br /><br />Let Him search, let Him declare it unto you. For then He will declare another message to you: </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin." (1 John 1:7)</strong></span> <br /><br />Then, when all is clear between Him and you, "nothing between" (and let that <strong>"when"</strong> be <strong>"now"</strong>), how sweet you will find it in the light of His forgiveness, and the new strength of His cleansing, to look up and say, <strong>"Thou understandest!" </strong>and wait patiently for Him to let you be understood or misunderstood<strong>, </strong> just as He will, even as Jesus did. For who was ever so misunderstood as He? </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Opened Tresures -</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Frances Ridley Havergal </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Nothing between my soul and my Saviour,<br />So that His blessed face may be seen; <br />Nothing preventing the least of His favour,<br />Keep the way clear! Let nothing between. </strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong> Kaleb Brasee</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9117</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em style="font-size: 16px;">REMEMBER ME</em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Yet did not the chief butler remember Joseph, but forgat him. Genesis 40:23 </span></span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The chief butler forgot to </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>remember</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Joseph's request! Perhaps, with his new lease on life, he was simply taken up with his blessings. When Pharaoh's dream jogged his memory, he came forward and spoke of Joseph as </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"a young man, an Hebrew, servant," (41:12)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. Don't we see veiled in these words a beautiful picture of our Lord?</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">There is nothing that we can tell the Father about the Lord Jesus that He does not already know; and yet the Father delights to hear us speak well of Him! Sometimes, we too, need a gentle reminder to refocus our gaze away from our temporal blessings to the Lord Himself. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Israel was warned: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"And thou shalt remember all the way which the Lord thy God led thee"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> and </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Beware that thou forget not the Lord thy God." Deuteronomy 8:2,11).</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In Paul's last letter to Timothy, he reminded him to </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel (2 Timothy 2:8). </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Paul wanted him to be occupied with the greatness and glory of the One who was raised. How uplifting to our spirits in the midst of trial and suffering to know that we serve a living, victorious, Saviour! </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">On the night of His betrayal the Lord Jesus gathered His disciples, and with bread and wine instituted a new supper. The bread, He explained, was to represent His body, and the wine, His blood. He said to them, "</span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>this do in remembrance of Me." (Luke 22:19)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. When this is done out of genuine love and affection for the Lord Jesus, the very atmosphere and tone of the occasion is one of joy, and an abundant outflow of worship. Let us <em><strong>remember</strong></em> Him! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Richard A. Barnett </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9118</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Saul lay sleeping within the trench and his spear stuck in the ground at his bolster</strong></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>...and the people lay round about him...David said...as the Lord liveth,...the Lord shall smite him; or his day shall come to die...The Lord forbid that I should stretch forth mine hand against the Lord's anointed.<br />(1 Samuel 26:7,10) </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The deep sleep that God had caused to fall on Saul and on all the camp might have given birth to the thought of taking advantage of such a moment. This was not so. God had sent this sleep to preserve His beloved and not to give him an occasion to avenge himself. God would save him in view of the work of grace He would call Him to accomplish toward Saul. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>Grace is reserved for David; judgment is reserved for the Lord</u>. But David takes a token, as he had taken one in the cave. The spear and the cruse of water are two witnesses by which the events that had taken place are confirmed. The weapon that Saul had sought to use against David more than once is now found in David's hand. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Would he use it against the Lord's anointed as he had once used Goliath's sword against this enemy of Israel? In no way. It is enough for David to take away from Saul that which he had used in his effort to harm David, to show the king that he was well aware of his weapons and that they were powerless against him. <br /><br />Now David goes far away from sleeping Saul and puts <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"a great space ... between them" (v. 13)</strong></span>. To have acted otherwise would have been blind confidence in man. Sometimes the world must see the distance that separates it from the children of God. If they do not distance themselves from the world they often support it in its illusion as to its condition. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">(1 Samuel - H. L. Rossier) </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">NJ.Hiebert - 9119</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>I will <u>seek</u> that which was lost, and <u>bring</u> again that which was driven <u>away</u>, and will <u>bind</u> up that which was <u>broken</u>, and will <u>strengthen</u> that which was <u>sick</u>. Ezekiel 34:16 </strong></span><br /><br />Perhaps when we read those words our hearts are sad over some who do not seem to want to be brought back, and bound up and strengthened.<br /><br />It helps, if we remember that this is first and foremost His sorrow. Our feeling it, too, means that we do not leave Him to sorrow alone, as He was left to pray alone in the garden of Gethsemane. <br /><br />So let us not give up hope, for He never does. Even if we have prayed for someone for many years without seeing any result, let us continue steadfastly. We know that the Good Shepherd goes on seeking His lost sheep <em><strong>until He finds</strong></em>. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Whispers of His Power - Amy Carmichael </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Down in the human heart, Crushed by the tempter,<br />Feelings lie buried that grace can restore;<br />Touched by a loving heart, wakened by kindness,<br />Chords that are broken will vibrate once more. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 13px;">CHORUS</span><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">Rescue the perishing, care for the dying;<br />Jesus is merciful, Jesus will save.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 13px;">Fanny Crosby</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9120</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, persecutions, afflictions...but out of them all the Lord delivered me. 2 Timothy 3:10,11</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We are definitely told that <u>the great safeguard against all that is false is the knowledge of that which is true</u>...There is no necessity to know fully the evil, for <u>we do not escape evil simply by the knowledge of evil</u>. It is by the knowledge of the truth that we can detect that which is false and contrary to the truth; and having detected the evil the exhortation is, not to be occupied with it, but to </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"turn away"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> from those who pursue it. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The Apostle can appeal to his </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"manner of life"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. His life was wholly consistent with the doctrine that he taught.... In his doctrine he proclaimed the heavenly calling of the saints and, in consistency with his doctrine, his manner of life was that of a stranger and a pilgrim whose citizenship is in heaven. It was a life governed by a definite </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"purpose,"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> lived by </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"faith,"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> exhibiting the character of Christ in all </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"longsuffering," "love"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> and </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"endurance",</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> involving </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"suffering"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> and </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"persecution."</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Thus the first great safeguard from the evil of the last days is the <u>knowledge of the truth</u>; and the second safeguard, <u>a life lived in consistency with the truth</u>....thirdly, we read of the <em><strong>support of the Lord</strong></em>. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"out of them all the Lord delivered me."(v11). </strong></span>If we are diligent to know the doctrine, if we are prepared to live a life consistent with the doctrine, we shall realize the support of the Lord. <br /><br />Others may forsake us even as they did the Apostle; others may think we are too extreme and too uncompromising; but, in contending for the faith, we shall find even as he did, that the Lord will stand by us, the Lord will strengthen us.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">2 Timothy - Hamilton Smith </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9121</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>BETWEEN TWO FIRES</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>And when they had kindled a fire . . . Peter sat down among them. <br />Luke 22:55 <br /><br />As soon as they were come to land, they saw a fire of coals there. <br />John 21:9 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Peter warmed himself at the enemy's fire--and denied His Lord. The devil always has a convenient fire for saints who are about to slip. Taking it easy is often the </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">prelude</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> to backsliding. Comfort <u>precedes</u> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">collapse.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Days later, Peter warmed at another fire, the coals his Master had kindled on the beach. There he met the question, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"lovest thou Me?" John 21:16</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> and received the commission, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Feed My sheep."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />Many Christians are living in an interim between <u>Satan's Fire</u> and the <u>Saviour's fire</u>. If you have fallen because you <u>warmed</u> yourself when you should have <u>warned</u> yourself, the Lord seeks an interview. <br /><br />Peter, the backslider, was marked Special: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Go tell his disciples <u><em>and Peter" </em></u> (Mark 16:7)</strong></span>. He does not want to <u>fire you out</u> but <u>fire you up</u>! If you have collapsed at <u>Satan's fire</u>, you may be converted at the <u>Saviour's fire</u>. Do not live "<strong>between fires.</strong>" </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Vance Havner</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9122</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Therefore every scribe which is instructed unto the kingdom of of heaven is like unto a man that is an householder, which bringeth forth out of his treasure things new and old. Matthew 13:52. </strong></span><br /><br />It is only with God-given treasure that we can enrich others. When we want to give a word to another, it generally seems to come with more power if, instead of casting about for what we think likely to suit them, we simply hand over to them any treasure word which He has freshly given to ourselves. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">When He opens to us some shining bit of treasure, let us not forget: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Freely ye have received, freely <u>give</u>." Matthew 10:8</strong></span>. Also, let us not stand idly waiting for some further opening of the treasure, but <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"let there be search made in the king's treasure house . . . search was made in the house of rolls, (archives) where the treasures were laid up . . . and therein was a record thus written . . ." Ezra 5:17, 6:1,2.</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"And I will give thee the treasures of darkness, and hidden riches of secret places, that thou mayest know that I, the Lord, which call thee by thy name, am the God of Israel." Isaiah 45:3)</strong></span>. They are truly hidden riches.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Neither must we we trust in our own store of spiritual treasures, whether of memory, experience, or even of grace. No, it is only continual drawing from <em><strong>HIs</strong></em> good treasure that will profit us, even <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"The light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ." (2 Corinthians 4:6)</strong></span><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us."(2 Corinthians 4:7) .</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Frances Ridley Hvergal</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9123</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;">SUSTAINED IN SUFFERING </em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>In the day when I cried Thou answeredst me, and strengthenedst me with </strong></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>strength </strong></span></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>in my soul. </strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Psalm 138:3 </strong></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">None find such quick response at the throne of grace as suffering saints. Peter knocked at the gate of those who were assembled to seek God for him. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Acts 12:13)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Almost as soon, their prayer knocked at heaven's gate in his behalf. <br /><br />There is always a door more than the Christian sees in his prison, by which Christ can with a turn of His hand open a way for His saint's escape. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Man may, the devil to be sure will, leave all without help or protection, when in need, that do his work. <u>But if God brings you to it, He will bring you through it</u>. When your faithfulness to Him has brought you into the briers: be not troubled if you are cast overboard. <br /><br />Like Jonah, before you see the provision which God makes for your safety: it is always at hand, but sometimes out of sight, like Jonah's whale, sent of God to ferry him ashore under water, and the prophet in his belly, before he knew where he was. <br /><br />That which you think comes to devour you, may be the messenger that God sends to bring you safe to land. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">William Gurnall (1617-1679) </span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9124</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><em>THANKFUL FOR SALVATION</em></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>For He hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him.<br />(2 Corinthians 5:21) For by one offering He hath perfected forever them that are sanctified. (Hebrews 10:14)</strong></span>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Strange, incomprehensibly <wbr></wbr>strange, to find the eternal Son of God under wrath, made sin! There are heights and depths in it that we never could understand. But we need also to see the living Lord now in the presence of God for us.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The Courts above are a strange place for me to tread. How can I find myself at ease there? Ah! <u>Because of the accepted Sacrifice; up there everything belongs to Him</u>. <u>Without Him heaven would be a perfectly strange place to me</u>. <br /><br />But as soon as my mind gets occupied with Him in heaven, I know it to be true of me before God that <u>Christ is there as the accepted Sacrifice for me</u>, and faith acts on the fact of His being there to give me perfect ease. What a thing it is to be certain that if I were out of the body tonight, I have a life bound up with Christ up there, and I have got practical peace from His being up there as my accepted Sacrifice. <br /><br />How can I hesitate to draw near to God when He has told us that His whole delight is in the accepted Sacrifice who has perfected me forever? That blood has done it--that death, which has become a record in heaven of what sin is, as well as a record of sin being put away from before God.<br /><br />Oh what a light God has let shine in on me! He has let me know what a wretched thing I am--all ruin, all misery; but ah! I have fallen to the lot of the Lord Jesus. <u>I am not a wretched man; I am a saved man</u>, and where all is utterly marred and ruined, just there can I say, "<u>I thank God through Jesus Christ.</u>" </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">G. V. Wigram </span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9125</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Ye did run well; who did hinder you that ye should not obey the truth? This persuasion cometh not of Him that calleth you. A little leaven leaveneth the whole lump. Galatians 5:7-9 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Faith in Christ alone can save. But what about the Galatians? Were they still being persecuted? When they turned from Christ to circumcision, then their persecution would cease. It may be that Paul would gently remind them of this. If Paul were preaching the doctrines of the Jews, then the scandal of the cross would surely have ceased. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">It was such a scandalous thing to preach about a Man who had been nailed on a cross. This death was worse than being hanged on a gallows. This death was kept for slaves and for criminals of the worst kind. A Roman citizen could not be crucified. But Paul gloried in the cross. He loved to tell the story of the cross. </span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He was not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, nor of the cross of Christ. To him it was the power of God unto salvation. But to men of the world, it was a scandal. We preach Christ crucified, unto the Jews a stumbling block (or scandal), and unto the Greeks foolishness; but unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God.<br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>(1 Corinthians 1:23,24)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">G. C. Willis</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Christ the Saviour of sinners came into the world to save! <br />Sing His glory, His worth, His fame, Jesus alone can save! <br />No name else is given. Search through earth and heaven --<br />Jesus alone, Jesus alone, Jesus alone can save.<br /><br />"Works of righteousness" all in vain, Jesus alone can save, <br />His blood cleanses from every stain, Jesus alone can save. <br />Now His work's completed, now in glory seated --<br />Jesus alone, Jesus alone can save, Jesus alone can save.</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Inglis Fleming</span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9126</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><span style="color: blue;">I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee. Jeremiah 31:3 </span></span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"></span><br /><br />The writing of this text is most remarkable! It was authored by an esteemed Scottish minister <strong>George Matheson </strong>who was totally blind and who described the writing as the "fruit of much mental suffering." <br /><br />"My hymn was composed on the evening of June 6 1882, when I was 40 years of age. It was the night of my sister's marriage, and the rest of the family were staying overnight in Glasgow. Something happened to me, which was known only to myself, and which caused me the most severe mental suffering. The hymn was the fruit of that suffering. It was the quickest bit of work I ever did in my life." <br /><br />"I had the impression of having it dictated to me by some inward voice rather than of working it out myself. I am quite sure that the whole work was completed in five minutes, and equally sure that it never received at my hands any retouching or correction. This came like a dayspring from on high." <br /><br />Though never fully substantiated, it is claimed that it was the result of the reminder at his sister's wedding of the great disappointment that Matheson had experienced just before he was to have been married to his college fiancée. When told of his impending total blindness, she is said to have informed him, "I do not wish to be the wife of a blind preacher." </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Kenneth W. Osbeck</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>O love that wilt not let me go, I rest my weary soul in Thee; I give Thee back the life I owe, that in Thine ocean depths its flow may richer, fuller be. <br /> O light that follows all my way, I yield my flickering torch to Thee; my heart restores its borrowed ray, that in Thy sunshine's blaze its day may brighter, fairer be.<br /> O joy that seekest me thru pain, I cannot close my heart to Thee; I trace the rainbow thru the rain, and know the promise is not vain that morn shall tearless be.<br /> O Cross that liftest up my head, I dare not ask to fly from Thee; I lay in dust life's glory dead, and from the ground there blossoms red, life that shall endless be</em>.</strong> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9127</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">THE HEART REVEALED </span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;">And when Joseph's brethren saw that their father was dead, they said, Joseph will peradventure hate us, and will certainly requite us all the evil which we did unto him. Genesis 50:15 </span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">They remember that when Joseph was but a lad of seventeen, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"They hated him and could not speak peaceably unto him,"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> and now they conclude, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Joseph will peradventure hate us."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Conscience recalls how wickedly they had acted in regard to Joseph, and now they say, He </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"will certainly requite us all the evil which we did unto him." </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <u>They judge of his thoughts by their thoughts, of his heart by their hearts, and of his acts by their acts</u>.<br /><br /><strong>THE CONDITION REVEALED</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Alas! are not we Christians today often times like Joseph's brethren of old? We know something of the glory of the Person of Christ, we know something of the efficacy of His work, we enjoy the benefits that flow from His finished work on the cross and His present service in the glory, but when some little crisis arises in our history it becomes manifest how little we know of His heart, and therefore what little confidence we have in Himself. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">We lack that personal intimate acquaintance with Christ, by which alone His mind is learned in such fashion that we can say not only <em style="font-size: 16px;">"I know what He has done for me,"<strong> </strong>but <strong>"I know how He feels about me."</strong></em> The result is that in the presence of some special trial we are, like Joseph's brethren, greatly distressed in soul. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">One has truly said, <em>"<u>nothing has contributed more to the present distraction of saints than the lack of personal relationship with the Lord</u>. <u>There has been a great and increased zeal to acquire knowledge of the Scriptures, but personal acquaintance with the Lord has not been correspondingly sought after</u>"</em>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Joseph - Hamilton Smith</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">.<br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9128</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">LIGHTHOUSES BUILT ON SOLID ROCK <br /><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="color: blue;">Ye are the light of the world...let your light so shine before men. Matthew 5:14-15 </span></span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">A few years ago, our family took a vacation up the New England coast and over to the Canadian province of Nova Scotia. As we traveled, we found the lighthouses to be the most impressive sights along the shore. By day they were imposing-enough structures standing tall on cliffs or at the inlets of the ocean. But by night they were outstanding beacons, bright lights to guide ships away from harm's way and into safe harbour. <br /><br />One lighthouse we visited looked like it grew right out of the solid rock upon which it was built. The water had worn away the rock below, but not the lighthouse which was situated high above the water. For over 100 years it not only kept ships from the dangerous rocks lurking just beneath the water's surface, but also guided their way into the safety of the nearby harbour. <br /><br />Shouldn't Christians be situated like these lighthouses as well? Doesn't the Word of God call us to be built upon solid rock <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Matthew 7:24)</strong></span>, where we can both stand firm and be useful guides in the darkness and danger that is all around today? Shouldn't we be useful both to guide souls away from danger and into a safe and secure relationship with Jesus Christ?<br /><br />When the Ethiopian eunuch told Philip he could not understand Scripture <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"except some man should guide me," (Acts 8:31,35)</strong></span>. Philip responded immediately and announced the glad tidings of Jesus to him. Shouldn't we be ever ready to do likewise? </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">L.J. Ondrejack </span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Brightly beams our Father's mercy from His lighthouse evermore,<br />But to us He gives the keeping of the lights along the shore. <br />Let the lower lights be burning! send a gleam across the wave!<br />Some poor fainting, struggling seaman you may rescue, you may save. P. P. Bliss</strong> </em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9129</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Who goeth a warfare any time at his own charges? </strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>1 Corinthians 9:7</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">If we run unsent, we shall not only be left to </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>learn</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> our folly, but to </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>exhibit</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> it. It is a teacher's business to set forth God's Word, and it is a servant's business to set forth the Master's will; but while all this is fully understood and admitted, we must ever remember the deep need there is of counting the cost ere we undertake to <u>build a tower</u> or go forth to war. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Luke 14:28)</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Abraham was called of God from Ur to Canaan, and hence </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">God led him</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> forth on the way. When Abraham tarried at Charran, </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">God waited for him</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; When he went down into Egypt, </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He restored him</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; when he needed guidance, </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He guided him</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; when there was a strife and a separation, <u>He took care of him</u>; so that Abraham had only to say, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Oh, how great is Thy goodness, which <u><em>Thou hast laid up</em></u> for them that fear Thee: which Thou hast wrought for them that trust in Thee before the sons of men!"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Psalm 31:19)</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He lost nothing by the strife. He had his tent and his altar before, and he had his tent and his altar afterwards. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Then Abraham removed <u><em>his tent</em></u>, and came and dwelt in the plain of Mamre, which is in Hebron, and built there <u><em>an altar</em></u> unto the Lord." (Genesis 13:18)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Lot might choose Sodom; but as for Abraham, he sought and found his all in God. There was no altar in Sodom. Alas! all who travel in that direction are in quest of something quite different from that. It is never the worship of God, but the love of the world, that leads them thither. And even though they should attain their object, what is it?--how does it end? Just thus:</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul." (Psalm 106:15)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Genesis - C. H. Mackintosh </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9130</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Beloved, <u>think it not strange</u> concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you. 1 Peter 4:12 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>All that grieves is but for a moment; <br />All that pleases is but for a moment; <br />Only the eternal is important.</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Most of you know these words; I want to remind you of them. The eternal in anything is the unseen, the spiritual. A trial comes. It will pass. In a few days, or months, or years, we shall have forgotten it. The way we meet that trial--our inner attitude towards it--belongs to the things that are eternal. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It will matter ten thousand years hence whether we conquered or were conquered by that temptation to impatience or faithlessness or worry which came when the trial rushed upon us. It does not seem so now. We feel, "If only I could have <strong><em>that</em></strong>--that joy on which my heart is set--then I should be happy." <br /><br />But these words remind us of something we know is true, and yet often forget. The pleasure will pass. There is nothing abiding in pleasure, but there is something abiding in our attitude towards that pleasure. <br /><br />If we say, "I must have it; I shall not be happy if I cannot have it," Then even if we did have it, there would be no lasting gain, only a dreadful loss, eternal loss. <br /><br />There is a verse about this in the Bible: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"And He gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul." Psalm 106:15</strong></span>. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Amy Carmichael </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9131</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">THE SOURCE OF PRAISE<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and hath made us kings and priests unto God and His Father; to Him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. Revelation 1:5-6 </span></strong><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">What? This One Who knows the secrets of the Father's heart, do I know that He loves me? Did He die for me? I had nothing but my sins when He looked upon me. Was His blood competent to take out all their crimson dye? And is God satisfied? Will God find fault with that work as inadequate? Oh no! He looked upon me, the chief of sinners, and I am to be a specimen of the cleansing power of that blood. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Oh, what love that is of His! How aggressive, how mighty in its power against all that is contrary to it, as it flows into the heart of a saint! How it enables one to look up and say, I know Thee, Lord Jesus up there, as the One who loved me in all my misery, who interposed Himself between me and my sins, and has given me a title to be a kingly priest to God and His Father, and has made me know it </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>now</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">How is it that there is so little praise? Because their so little appreciation of Christ and of the work of Christ, of how that blood has cleansed us and given us a place in glory. Why is there not willingness in saints to strip themselves for Christ, as Jonathan did for David </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>(1 Samuel 18:4)</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">? Why is there not that impulsive power of love flowing out in praise, as it did in John, when His heart welled forth, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"To Him that loved us" </strong></span></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">(Revelation 1:5)</span></strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">? </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>G. V. Wigram</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Were the whole realm of nature mine, <br />That were an offering far too small;<br />Love so amazing, so divine,<br />Demands my soul, my life, my all. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Isaac Watts</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9132</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>And that ye study yo be quiet. 1 Thessalonians 4:11 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">What struck me about this verse, written to a young man by an elderly apostle, was that we should need to, "take a course" on how to be quiet. The only other New Testament reference to studying is <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. But shun profane and vain babblings. (2 Timothy 2:15-16)</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">We all started babbling as babies, trying our best to copy the sounds made by our parents. But some of us are so voluble that we continue the practise into adulthood; using lots of words without much spiritual depth. Hence the admonition tp consider what it means to just be quiet much of the time. Only in quiet times can we learn. It was a <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"still, small voice" (1 Kings 19:12)</strong></span> that spoke to Elijah, but only after the tumult died down was God ready to speak quietly. No wonder school teachers and professors require a tranquil classroom to get their message across.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Even when we think we might have something important to say, it is often better to give someone else a chance to say it better. And if they do speak up, consider it done, and resist the temptation to say the same thing again. We certainly do have a tendency to enjoy hearing the sound of our own voice, and may be so eager we cut someone else off, or worse, miss the direction of the Holy Spirit. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In the love song written by Solomon <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Song of Solomon 2:14)</strong></span> the lady pleads with her lover <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"let me see thy countenance, let me hear thy voice."</strong></span> This is good advice for us. We will only grow in grace when we are in close relationship with the Lord Jesus. That is hard to arrange when we are talking, talking most of our waking hours. The Lord speaks to us by the Word of God, as conveyed by the Holy Spirit. It follows that we need to keep it before us frequently, so we can get His counsel. And that calls for quiet meditation. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath." James 1:19</strong></span> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Lorne Perry</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9133</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">"Perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed </span></strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>(shunned)</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <span style="color: blue;">evil. Job 1:1)</span><br /><br />Such was Job's character, given by God--no mean one, especially as it was earned in what we believe were pre-Abrahamic days, with no general light of revelation. He was blessed, too, as godliness was in those days, with abundance of this world's goods. <span style="color: blue;"><em><strong>"And there were born unto him seven sons and three daughters. His substance also was seven thousand sheep, and three thousand camels, and five hundred yoke of oxen, and five hundred she asses, and a very great household; so that this man was the greatest of all the men of the east. (vv2,3)</strong></em></span>. <br /><br />God asks Satan, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Hast thou considered My servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth?" (v.8)</strong></span> Satan, in reply, says in effect, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Strip him, and he will curse Thee to Thy face." (v11)</strong></span> Satan sought his fall, God sought his blessing; Satan wished him to curse God, God desired that he should abhor himself. <br /><br />Satan gets leave from God to strip Job. With malignant energy he sets to work, and in one day he brings the greatest man in all the east into abject poverty and visits him with sore bereavement.<br /><br />Blow after blow falls upon Job of such crushing nature and in such rapidity that one marvels at the comment of the Holy Ghost on his conduct in it all: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"In all this Job sinned not." (v.22)</strong></span> What self-restraint! What a triumph for God so far! What a defeat for Satan, who predicted the deep and bitter curse if God touched his possessions! The tongue is an unruly member. Says James, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body."</strong></span> And Job, up to this point, behaved perfectly." <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(James 4)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Comforted of God - A. J. Pollock </span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9134</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">-Then the Lord answered Job out of the whirlwind, and said, who is this that darkeneth counsel by words without knowledge? Job 38:1,2<br /><br />-Then Job answered the Lord, and said, </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">I know that Thou canst do every thing, and that no thought can be withholden from Thee. </span><br /><span style="font-size: 15px;">-Who is he that hideth counsel without knowledge? therefore have I uttered that I understood not; things too wonderful for me, which I knew not. </span><br /><span style="font-size: 16px;">-Hear, I beseech Thee, and I will speak: I will demand of Thee, and declare Thou unto me.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 15px;">-I have heard of Thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth Thee.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 16px;">-Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes. Job 42:1-6 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Personal dealing with God makes him a little man in his own eyes, even to the abhorrence of himself. This is the only road to true greatness, for when Job had arrived at this point God gave him a </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>double</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> portion, so that his later end was more blessed than his beginning. Thus it ever is. <br /><br />Whether we are stripped of human righteousness as sinners, or stripped of self-complacency as saints, the end is always for blessing, and <u>the truly great before God are the truly small in their own eyes</u>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">It is all beautifully summed up by James when he says, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Behold, we count them happy which endure. Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord; that the Lord is pitiful, and of tender mercy." (v 5:11)</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Those who are enduring the striping process, let them be encouraged by this prospect of pure blessing--<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"the end of the Lord." "He is very pitiful, and of tender mercy."</strong></span> If exercised, Satan will not gain the advantage; God will gain the glory and we shall gain the blessing. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Comforted of God - A. J. Pollock</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9135</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable</strong><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong> </strong></span><strong style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">unto God, which is your reasonable service. Romans 12:1 </strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Suppose you give over a piece of ground to another person. You give it up, then and there, entirely to the other; it is no longer in your own possession; you no longer dig and sow, plant and reap, at your discretion or for your own profit. His occupation of it is total; no other has any right to an inch of it; it is his affair what crops to arrange for and how to make the most of it. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">But his practical occupation of it may not appear all at once. There may be waste land which he will take into full cultivation only by degrees, space wasted for want of draining and odd corners lost for want of inclosing; fields yielding smaller returns than they might, because of hedges too wide and shady, and trees too many, and strips of good soil trampled into uselessness for want of defined pathways. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Just so is it with our lives. The transaction of giving them over to God is definite and complete. But then begins the practical development of consecration. And here He leads on softly, according as the children be able to endure. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Genesis 33:14)</strong></span>. I do not suppose anyone sees anything like all that it involves at the outset. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We have not a notion what an amount of waste of power there has been in our lives; we never measured out the odd corners and the undrained bits, and it never occurred to us what good fruit might be grown in our straggling hedges, nor how the shade of our trees has been keeping the sun from the crops. <br /><br />And so, season by season, we shall be sometimes not a little startled, yet always very glad, as we find that bit by bit the Master shows how much more may be made of our ground, how much more He is able to make of it than we did; and we shall be willing to work under Him and do exactly what He points out, even if it comes to cutting down a shady tree or clearing out a ditch full of pretty weeds and wild flowers. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Kept for the Master's Use - F. R. Havergal </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9136</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 28</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. Hebrews 12:2 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">UNTO JESUS and not to our brethren, not even to the best among them and the best beloved. <u>In following a man we run the risk of losing our way;</u> in following Jesus we are sure of never losing our way.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Besides, in putting a man between Jesus and ourselves, it will come to pass that insensibly the man will increase and Jesus will decrease; soon we no longer know how to find Jesus when we cannot find the man, and if he fails us, all fails. <br /><br />On the contrary, if Jesus is kept between us and our closest friend, our attachment to the person will be at the same time less enthralling and more deep; less passionate and more tender; less necessary, and more useful; an instrument of rich blessing in the hands of God. <br /><br />He is pleased to make use of him; and whose absence will be a further blessing, when it may please God to dispense with him, to draw us even nearer to the only Friend who can not be separated from us by <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"neither death nor life" Romans 8:38,39.</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Theodore Monod</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9137</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the way of righteousness. Proverbs 16:31 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 14px;">What though of gilded baubles He bereaves us,<br />Dear to the heart of youth, to manhood's prime,<br />Think of the calm He brings, the peace He leaves us,<br />The hoarded spoils, the legacies of time."</span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"Nor does the falling into decay of the earthly house of this tabernacle affect the grandeur of old age. "They say I am growing old because my hair is silvered, and there are crow's feet on my forehead, and my step is not as firm and elastic as before. But they are mistaken; that is not me."</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The knees are weak, but the knees are not me. The brow is wrinkled, but the brow is not me. This is the house I live in: but I am young--younger than I was ever before."</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The conclusion at which we arrive so far, then, is that while youth is beautiful--wondrously beautiful--age has a beauty and a majesty all its own; and that, although those who are at the beginning of life may acquire much knowledge, those who are nearing its close may possess that wisdom which is knowledge applied. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. (Proverbs 4:18)</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee. Isaiah 60:1</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Best Is Yet To Be - H. Durbanville </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9138</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. Hebrews 10:25</strong></span> <br /><br />It is quite certain that those who are whole hearted for Christ desire to be in His company. They instinctively wend their way to the spot where He is known to be. Is there such a spot on earth? Yes, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For where two or three are gathered together in My name, there am I in the midst of the them." Matthew 18:20</strong></span>. <br /><br />No one who is truly conscious of the greatness and excellency of His Person, and of the blessedness of communion with Him, would willingly be absent from that favoured place. <br /><br />We read that of old, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"They continued steadfastly in the apostles doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers." (Acts 2:42)</strong></span>. Alas that there should be such a lack of continuing steadfastly now! <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"In the midst of the church will I sing praise unto Thee." (Hebrews 2:12)</strong></span> and can we suppose that He fails to notice whether we are there or not to join in the song He leads?<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"This do in remembrance of Me"? (1 Corinthians 11:24) </strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>The Lord is Near - 2007</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>We go to meet the Saviour, His glorious face to see;<br />What manner of behaviour doth with this hope agree?<br />May God's illumination guide heart and walk aright;<br />That so our preparation be pleasing in His sight. </strong></span><span style="font-size: 16px;"> </span><strong>Paul Gerhardt</strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9139</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 3</span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-37430635707104524222023-01-01T04:59:00.036-05:002023-01-30T07:49:59.402-05:00Gems from January 2023<p><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in His law doth he meditate day and night. And <u>he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season</u>; his leaf also shall not whither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. Psalm 1:1-3.</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> </span></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">One day, deep in the forest, we came upon a rock in midstream scooped by the backwash of immemorial waters to a hollow like the palm of a man's hand. Over this rock fell a crystal sheet of water, and through that moving clearness we saw <em>maidenhair fern</em> growing in lovely profusion in the hollow of the hand. <br /><br />It was not the place where we should have planted a fern; at any moment it might have been tossed, a piteous, crumpled mass, down the shouting river--this is how it seemed to us. But it was safe. The falls flowed over it, not on it. And it was blessed. <br /><br />When the fern on the bank shrivelled in heat, it was green, for it was watered all the year long by dust of spray. So does our wonderful God turn that which had seemed to be a perpetual threat to a perpetual benediction. Is there anything to fear with such a God? </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Rose From Briar - Amy Carmichael </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Be not dismayed what e'er betide, God will take care of you;<br />Beneath His wings of love abide, God will take care of you.<br /><br />Thro' days of toil when heart doth fail, God will take care of you;<br />When dangers fierce your path assail, God will take care of you. <br /><br />All you may need He will provide, God will take care of you;<br />Nothing you ask will be denied, God will take care of you. <br /><br />No matter what may be the test, God will take care of you; <br />Lean, weary one upon, His breast, God will take care of you.</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>C. D. Martin</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9078</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">COVERED by the MOST HIGH</span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">For I will be merciful to their </span></strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more. Hebrews 8:12 </strong></span><br /><br />- The beach does not cover itself.<br />- It is covered by the sea.<br />- The shore does not change itself. <br />- It is shaped by the tides.<br />- The sea edge does not diminish its own size.<br />- The ocean does this as it sweeps in upon it.<br />- The alterations and rearrangements of the coast are the eternal work of the eternal tides.<br /><br />And in my life as one who lies open, exposed and receptive to the action of The Most High, it is He who will cover and conform me to His own pattern of ultimate perfection. <br /><br />- He does not relent.<br />- He does not rest. <br />- He neither slumbers nor sleeps. <br /><br />It is He who is at work upon my soul and within my spirit both to will and to do according to His own grand designs. <br /><br />The incoming of Christ by His sublime Sprit always changes the contours of our lives. Once we have been filled with all the fullness of His grace and goodness we are never the same again. His presence can inundate every crevice, can fill every corner of our convoluted lives. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Songs of My Soul - W. Phillip Keller </span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9079</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>THE BIBLE</strong></em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>For the Word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing </strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Hebrews 4:12 </strong></span><br /><br />My Book! my Book! my grand old Book! by inspiration given! There every page from age to age, reveals the path to heaven;<br />My Lamp of Light! in nature's night, thy un-beclouded ray<br />Has turned the gloom of death's cold tomb to everlasting day. <br /><br />My Chart! my Chart! my changeless Chart by thee I guide my bark, A simple child on ocean wild, o'er mountain billows dark;<br />By thee I steer my safe career, with canvas all unfurled,<br />And onward sail before the gale, to yonder blissful world.<br /><br />My Staff! my Staff! my trusty Staff! I'll grasp thee in my hand, As faint and weak on Pisgah's peak, I view the promised land;<br />Not sadly told, as one of old, to see--but to explore,<br />My hold I'll keep through Jordan's deep till safe on Canaan's shore.<br /><br />My Sword! my Sword! my two-edged sword! by thy unerring might, I deal my foe the deadly blow, in faith's unequal fight;<br />Thy tempered blade, that lent me aid in every conflict past,<br />Shall make me more than conqueror, through Him who loved, at last.<br /><br />My Book! my Chart! my Staff! my Sword! heaven speed thee on thy way From pole to pole, as ages roll, the harbinger of day,<br />Till Christ "the Light," shall banish night from this terrestrial ball,<br />And earth shall see her Jubilee, and God be all in all. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">(Author unknown) Christian Treasury December 1990</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9080</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>INSISTING OR SUFFERING</strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid ... neither be troubled." <u>1 Peter 3:14</u> "The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished." <u>2 Peter 2:9</u> </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It is recorded that 80% of the town of Meulaboh in Aceh (part of Indonesia) was destroyed by the Tsunami that struck on December 26, 2004. Meulaboh, also lost over 80% of its population--souls instantly swept into eternity in that awful disaster. Though the majority of Meulaboh's residents follow the practices of Islam, among them are 400 professing Christians. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The Christians had wanted to come together on December 25th for an all day 'Christian' celebration. Evidently, religious authorities in Meulaboh forbade such a gathering. The Christians were told that if they wanted to be together for a special celebration on December 25th, they should go outside the city of Meulaboh, climb a rugged mountain where, at the top, they could meet together for the day. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Rather than complaining or going to 'civil' authorities to demand their 'legal' rights, the 400 Christians, submitting to religious persecution, left the city on December 25th and climbed to the mountain top, there spending the day together. Because of the arduous climb, they stayed at the top that night. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">On Sunday morning, December 26, 2004, the terrible magnitude 9 earthquake struck, followed by Tsunami waves which are estimated to have taken well over a quarter million lives in that vast area. When the Tsunami struck Meulaboh, most of the city was destroyed and thousands were killed. The 400 Christians, however, who had submitted to religious harassment and persecution were still on the mountain top, safe from the destruction. Not one life was lost.<br /><br />Our hearts ache for all the suffering caused by this terrible disaster allowed by God. How solemn to think of the vast number of souls swept so suddenly into eternity. God is surely speaking plainly, warning this Christ rejecting world of a far worse, coming judgment. May dear souls take heed <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(see Acts 17:31, Romans 12:19).</strong></span> <br /><br />Let us soberly ask ourselves an obvious question. What would have happened to the 400 Christians had they <strong><em>demanded</em></strong> their <em><strong>'rights'</strong></em> and received permission from the civil authorities to remain in the town of Meulaboh for their December 25th gathering? </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Christian Shepherd - Doug Nicolet - March 2007</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9081</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>THE BRIDGE BUILDER</em></strong><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way. Hebrews 12:13</strong></span><br /><br />An old man, going a lone highway,<br />Came at the evening, cold and gray,<br />To a chasm vast and deep and wide,<br />Through which was flowing a raging tide.<br />The old man crossed in the twilight dim;<br />The sullen stream had no fears for him;<br />But he turned when safe on the other side,<br />And built a bridge to span the tide.<br />"Old man," said a fellow-pilgrim near,<br />"You are wasting your strength with building here;<br />Your journey will end with the closing day;<br />You never again will pass this way.<br />You've crossed the chasm deep and wide.<br />Why build you this bridge at eventide?" <br />The builder lifted his old gray head. <br />"Good friend, in the path I have come," he said,<br />"There followeth after me today<br />A youth whose feet must pass this way.<br />This chasm which has been as naught to me,<br />To that fair-haired youth may a pitfall be;<br />He, too, must cross in the twilight dim;<br />Good friend, <u>I am building this bridge for him</u>." </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Will Allen Dromgoole </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9082</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"><em>AT THE GATE OF THE YEAR</em></span><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;">Known unto God are all His works from the beginning of the world. Acts 15:18</span> </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"></span></b><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In December 1939, England was at war. Nazi Germany had invaded Poland, and a dark, threatening cloud hung over all of Europe; an uncertain future lay before the people. King George VI was looking for inspiration as he was about to address the nation on the radio. <br /><br />Thirteen year old Princess Elizabeth gave her father a poem to read just before he addressed the anxious nation. The original title of the poem, was "God Knows," but it became popularly known as "The Gate of the Year," after the public broadcast by King George. <br /><br />He began his speech with, "A new year is at hand, we cannot tell what it will bring," and then concluded with the poem. Author, M. Haskins<br /><br /><em>And I said to the man who stood at the gate of the year: "Give me a light that I may tread safely into the unknown." </em></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><em>And he replied: "Go out into the darkness and put your hand in the Hand of God. That shall be to you better than light and safer than a known way."</em></span><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">As the king read the poem, it had the desired affect, and a calmness settled upon the nation that continued to the end of the war, Yes, God knows, in fact He knows all things; He knows what He is going to do "from eternity." <br /><br />Christ taught us that the heavenly Father knows and cares even when a little bird falls to the ground, and that the very hairs of our head are numbered. We are of more value than many sparrows (Matthew 10:29-31). As we stand at "the gate" of this new year, may we also put our hand into the hand of the Father and trust Him for all things.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Brian Reynolds </span></em><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9083</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be delivered. Joel 2:32 </strong></span><br /><br />Why do not I call on His name? Why do I run to this neighbour and that when God is so near and will hear my faintest call? Why do I sit down and devise schemes and invent plans? Why not at once roll myself and my burden upon the Lord? <br /><br />Straightforward is the best runner--why do not I run at once to the living God? In vain shall I look for deliverance anywhere else; but with God I shall find it; for here I have His royal <em><strong>shall</strong></em> to make it sure. <br /><br />I need not ask whether I may call on Him or not, for that word <em><strong>"Whosoever"</strong></em> is a very wide and comprehensive one. Whosoever means me, for it means anybody and everybody who calls upon God. I will therefore follow the leading of the text, and at once call upon the glorious Lord who has made so large a promise. <br /><br />My case is urgent, and I do not see how I am to be delivered; but this is no business of mine. He who makes the promise will find ways and means of keeping it. It is mine to obey His commands; it is not mine to direct His counsels. I am His servant, not His solicitor. I call upon Him, and He will deliver. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">C. H. Spurgeon </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9084</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7 </strong></span><br /><br />If we could translate this verse: <strong><em>"Do not let your hearts be filled with care,"</em></strong> I think it would give the meaning better. The word translated <span style="color: blue;"><strong>'Be careful' (v.6)</strong></span> comes from the word for <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"care"</strong></span> as we see it in <span style="color: blue;"><strong>1 Peter 5:7 "Casting all your care upon Him;" </strong></span>or, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"the care of this world (</strong></span><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Matthew 13:22)," </strong></span>that chokes the Word.<br /><br />God's way to get rid of this care that so often saps our very life, is to cast it all on Him. In <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Hebrews 10:35</strong></span> we are told <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Cast not away therefore your confidence."</strong></span> But, as another has put it, too often we '<u><em>Cast away our confidence; but carry all our care.</em></u>' And the way to cast all our care upon Him, so that we are anxious for nothing, is told us in this lovely verse in <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Philippians 4:6: "in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God."</strong></span><br /><br />Sometimes the load of care seems too heavy to <em><strong>cast</strong></em> it anywhere. Then the Lord invites us to <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Commit</strong></span> </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">(Roll)</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>thy way upon the Lord" (Psalm 37:5).</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> When we were children in Canada, in the winter, we would make great snowballs; and when they got too heavy to lift, we still could </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">roll</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> them. <br /><br />So roll that great load of care on Him,</span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong> "for He careth for you." (5:7)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"<u>because it is a matter of care to Him, concerning you,</u>"</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> as the Greek Testament so sweetly puts it. And in the Greek Testament two different words are used here for </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>care. </strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> The one is <em><strong>"anxious, harassing care:"</strong></em> the other is God's loving <em><strong>"providential care"</strong></em> over us. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Meditations on Philippians - G.C. Willis</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9085</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Thou, O king, art a king of kings: for the God of heaven hath given thee a kingdom, power, and strength, and glory...thou art this head of gold. Daniel 2:37-38 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When Daniel revealed the dream of the great image and its meaning to Nebuchadnezzar...we discover that he had become completely obsessed with this portrayal of himself as the </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"head of gold."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />Accordingly he made a great idol of gold, 90 feet high and 9 feet wide, and set it up in the plains of Dura as an object of worship. It was true that God had said that Nebuchadnezzar was that </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"head of gold"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> but he completely distorted truth. Nebuchadnezzar exaggerated it, and made it an idol to be worshipped. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We see this situation duplicated in the conduct of the Pharisees, during the Lord's time here on earth. The law had been given by God, but the Pharisees exaggerated it, expanded it, distorted it and in the end, violated the </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>spirt of the Law</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. <br /><br />The Lord said concerning them, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"For they bind heavy burdens and grievous to be borne, and lay them on men's shoulders; but they themselves will not move them with one of their fingers" (Matthew 23:4)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. The letter of truth had become and end itself. Taken to extremes, it violated the spirit of the letter, thus inflicting untold suffering upon men. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The Pharisees, for example, objected to the Lord and His disciples taking handfuls of grain and rubbing them together for the most basic meal, because it was the Sabbath day. The Pharisees would rather have had them starve than violate the Sabbath. Again, the observance of the Sabbath was more important to them than the healing of a man whose hand was withered (Luke 6). May the Lord enable us to hold the truth, but to do so in love. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 13px;">Daniel - William Burnett</span></em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9086</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>LIFTED BY WAY OF REMEMBRANCE<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">O my GOD, my soul is cast down within me. </span></strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Psalm 42:6 </span></strong><br /><br />Whenever you say this, add at once, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Therefore will I remember Thee." (v.6)</strong></span> And what then? What comes of thus remembering Him? <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"My soul shall be satisfied as with marrow and fatness, and my mouth shall praise Thee with joyful lips." (Psalm 63:5)</strong></span> <br /><br />What can be a sweeter, fuller promise than this! Our heart's desire fulfilled in abundant satisfaction and joyful power of praise! Yet there is a promise sweeter and more thrilling still to the loving, longing heart. <br /><br />And so, this very night, as you put away the profitless musings and memories, and remember Him upon your bed, He will keep His word and meet you, for has He not said, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Thou meetest . . . those that remember Thee in Thy ways"?</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Isiah 64:5)</strong></span><br /><br />The darkness shall be verily the shadow of His wing, for your feeble, yet Spirit-given remembrance, shall be met by His real and actual presence, for <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"hath He said and shall He not do it?"</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Numbers 23:19)</strong></span> Let us pray that this night the desire of our soul may be <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"to Thy name, and to the remembrance of Thee."</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Isiah 26:8)</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">O sunlight of thanksgiving! Who that knows<br />Its bright forth-breaking after dreariest days, <br />Would change the after-thought of woes<br />For memory's loveliest light that glows,<br />If so he must forego one note of that sweet praise?</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Frances Ridley Havergal </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9087</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Behold my servant, whom I have chosen; my beloved, in whom my souls is well pleased. Matthew 12:18 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Come now, and view that manger, the Lord of glory see,<br />A houseless, homeless Stranger, in this poor world for thee. <br /><br />Oh, strange, yet fit beginning of all that life of woe, <br />In which Thy grace was winning poor man his God to know.<br /><br />Bless'd Babe! who lowly liest in manger cradle there;<br />Descended from the highest, our sorrows all to share.</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><em><strong>J.N.D.</strong></em></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Every one found room in the inn save He, but any who wanted to find Him whom angels celebrate must go to the manger. <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Luke 4:4)</strong></span> <u>It is the written Word He ever uses</u>, and Satan is powerless. What amazing importance Jesus gives the scriptures. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">It was not as an act of divine authority He dismissed Satan, but the enemy is proved unable to grapple with obedience to the Word of God. Jesus does not reason with Satan. A single text silences when used in the power of the Spirit. The whole secret of strength in conflict is using the word of God in the right way. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Luke 4:16) "And He came to Nazareth, where He had been brought up"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">--the low, despised place, but just the place where spiritual power is found. Was it not ever thus? When was it found allied to the great things of this world? <u>God did not despise Nazareth, but man despises Jesus because he came out of Nazareth</u>. Man despises the lowliness to which grace brought Him--wretched man! Christ never worked miracles for Himself, but for others. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Luke 8:37)</strong></span> The world beseeches Jesus to depart, desiring their own ease, which is more disturbed by the presence and power of God than by a legion of devils. </span><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Footprints for Pilgrims - J. N. Darby </span></strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9088</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28 <br /><br />For he that is entered into His rest, he also hath ceased from his own works. . . . let us labour therefore to enter into that rest. Hebrews 4:10-11.</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Labour</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> in Hebrew 4:11 means </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"make haste."</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Is the word used to remind us that we shall not drift into rest? There must be the will to enter in. Perhaps what demands most will power is the resolution to cease from our own works, our own busyness, and to stay our minds upon our God. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We pray, and the answer is not what we expect. It seems an answer of loss, and sometimes loss upon loss. We must cease from our own thoughts about it and believe that what He has allowed is the perfect answer for the moment. As we believe, and accept, we enter into rest and the sense of strain passes into peace. <br /><br />This covers all life: the illness of those we love, mental or spiritual suffering, the unexplained, everything. Let us not lose one hour in needless ineffective distress. Let us hasten by an act of the will to come to Him for rest. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Whispers of His Power - Amy Carmichael </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9089</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus: whom God hath set forth to be a propitiation </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(mercy-seat)</strong></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong> through faith in His blood, to declare His righteousness for the remission of sins that are past, through the forbearance of God. Romans 3:23-25 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In the dispensation of His grace, God provides the sinner with an answer to His own demands upon him. He gives him security in the day of His righteous judgment. For He judges sin. Surely He cannot pass it by. Righteousness calls for the judgment of it. But He in grace provides the sinner with an answer and a shelter, and it becomes the duty and the obedience of a sinner to use this shelter--and this using of God's provision is faith.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The Lord in this way provided Noah with an answer to His own righteous and purposed judgment that was coming on the world before the Flood. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Make thee an ark of gopher wood." (Genesis 6:14)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, said God to him. Noah did so, believing the word both of judgment and of deliverance, and he was safe. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He provided Israel in Egypt against another day of judgment. Israel used this provision, putting the blood upon the lintel, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Genesis 12:7)</strong></span> and was sheltered from the sword of the Angel.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In like manner He made provision for Rahab in the day of the judgment of Canaan, as He had made provision for Israel in the day of the judgment of Egypt; and she escaped, just because she received the word by faith and used God's provisions, hanging the scarlet line out from the window. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Joshua 2:18)</strong></span> And thus it is still. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">J.G. Bellett </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Time is gliding swiftly by, death and judgment both draw nigh,<br />To the arms of Jesus fly, be in time!</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">William J. Kirkpatrick </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9090</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>THAT ALL MAY KNOW<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">The Lord knoweth them that are His. 2 Timothy 2:19 <br />We know that we are of God. 1 John 5:19 <br />By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one to another John 13:35 </span></strong><br /><br />God knows His own. It is well that He does, for sometimes it would be difficult for us to determine who are His! Heaven will surprise us both ways. <br /><br />We can know that we are His. The little book of First John is full of <strong>"know-so"</strong> evidence, to say nothing of plenty more elsewhere. <br /><br />And others know by the badge of love. Not tongues nor faith nor prophecy nor knowledge nor martyrdom nor philanthropy, but love is the Christian's mark of distinction. How we cultivate all the others and fail here! <br /><br />All may know, that we are His. God knows, we know, others may know. It is a <strong>"Know-so"</strong> faith. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Day by Day - Vance Havner</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9091</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And when Abram heard that his brother was taken captive, he armed his trained servants, born in his own house, three hundred and eighteen, and pursued them unto Dan. <br /><br />And he divided himself against them, he and his servants, by night, and smote them and pursued them...and he brought back all the goods, and also brought again his brother Lot, and his goods, and the women also, and the people. Genesis 14:14-16 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Lot was Abraham's brother after all, and brotherly love must act. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"A brother is born for adversity;" (Proverbs17:17)</strong></span> and it often happens that a season of adversity softens the heart, and renders it susceptible of kindness, even from one with whom we have had to part company. <br /><br /><u>The claims of a brother's trouble are answered by the affections of a brother's heart</u>. This is divine. Genuine faith, while it always renders us independent, never renders us indifferent;--it will never wrap itself up in its fleece while a brother shivers in the cold. <br /><br />There are three things which faith does,--it "<u>purifies the heart</u>," "<u>it works by love</u>," and it "<u>overcomes the world</u>; and all these results of faith are beautifully exhibited in Abraham on this occasion. <br /><br />His heart was purified from Sodom's pollutions; he manifested genuine love to Lot, his brother; and, finally, he was completely victorious over the kings. Such are the precious fruits of faith, that heavenly, Christ-honouring principle.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Notes on Genesis - C. H. Mackintosh </span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9092</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. 1 Corinthians 10:13</strong></span> <br /><br />When the flesh or Satan beg time of you, it is to steal time from you. They put you off prayer at one time, to shut you out at last from prayer at any time. <br /><br />What day in all the year is inconvenient to Satan? What place or company are you in, that he cannot make a snare for your soul? <br /><br />Satan knows what orders you keep in your house and closet; and though he has not a key to your heart, yet he can stand in the next room to it and lightly hear what is whispered there. If once he but smells which way your heart inclines, he knows how to take the hint; if but one door is unbolted, here is advantage enough. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Christian in Complete Armour - William Gurnall (1616-1679) </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Yield not to temptation, for yielding is sin;<br />Each victory will help you some other to win;<br />Fight faithfully onward, dark passions subdue<br />Look ever to Jesus, He will cary you through. <br /><br />Shun evil companions, bad language disdain,<br />God's name hold in reverence, nor take it in vain;<br />Be thoughtful and earnest, kind hearted and true,<br />Look ever to Jesus, He will carry you through.<br /><br />To him that o'er cometh God giveth a crown,<br />Thro' faith we shall conquer, though often cast down;<br />He, who is our Saviour, our strength will renew<br />Look ever to Jesus, He will carry you through.</span><br />H. R. Palmer</strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9093</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend. Proverbs 27:17 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">As by friction, one iron instrument is sharpened and polished by contact with another, so we may be a help to each other by interesting and profitable communication and exchange of thought. A recluse is always a very one-sided man. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He who would be a blessing to his fellows must mingle with them that he may learn to understand their needs and their sorrows, as well as that he may find gain by what in them is superior to his own knowledge or virtues. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Among Christians, fellowship one with another is precious indeed, and becomes increasingly sweet as the days grow darker. How profitable to a Timothy the association with a Paul! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Notes on Proverbs - H. A. Ironside</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><em><strong>"But thou hast fully known my doctrine, manner of life, purpose, faith, longsuffering, charity, patience, persecutions, afflictions, which came unto me at Antioch, at Iconium, at Lystra; what persecutions I endured: but out of them all the Lord delivered me." (2 Timothy 3:10,11)</strong></em></span><span style="font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"> </span></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> N.J.Hiebert - 9094</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Their father (Jacob) said unto them, Go again, buy us a little food...Judah said...I will be surety for him (v.9)...Take also your brother, and arise, go again unto the man: and God almighty give you mercy before the man..."<br />(Genesis 43:2-13).</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The sin of Joseph's brethren has been recalled; their conscience has been awakened; the fear of God has arisen in their souls. There are, however, other experiences they must pass through before Joseph can reveal himself in all the love of his heart, and ere his brethren can be at perfect ease in his presence. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In the past they had sinned, not only against Joseph, but also against their father. They had been <em>"</em></span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><u style="font-size: 16px;">reckless of a brother's cries and of a father's grief</u></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>."</em> They had sinned as brethren before their brother, they had sinned as sons before their father. One they had treated with the utmost cruelty, the other with the grossest deception. Both as sons and as brethren they had revealed the evil of their way and the hardness of their hearts. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The time has come when they will be tested, and Joseph will prove how far any real change has been wrought in them. They have said </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"we are true men." (42:11)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. Joseph will therefore place them in circumstances that will reveal whether at last they can act as true brothers, and true sons. With the utmost wisdom Joseph will re-enact the past. Once again ten men will have to act in regard to a younger brother. Once again they will have to face an aged father with his great love for the younger son. <br /><br />Times have changed and circumstances have altered; the setting of the picture is entirely new, but in principle the story of the fields of Dothan (37:17) is to be enacted in the land of Egypt. Will those ten men once again abandon their brother, and invent some story to deceive their father? Has true repentance been wrought in the hearts of those brethren? This is the great question that Joseph will solve in their second visit to Egypt. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">(Joseph - Hamilton Smith)</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Part 1 - To be continued - January 14</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9095</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>And when Joseph saw Benjamin with them, he said to the ruler of his house, bring these men home, and slay, and make ready; for these men shall dine with me at noon. Genesis 43:16</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The brethren of Joseph proceed to act upon their father's plan only to realize its utter futility. They took the present, they took double money, and Benjamin, rose up and went down to Egypt and stood before Joseph <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(v.15)</strong></span>. Joseph pays not the slightest heed to their gifts, he does not touch their money, he will not accept Benjamin as a ransom. He entirely ignores their plan and commences to act according to his own heart. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong style="font-size: 16px;">(v.16)</strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">. </span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Is this not an anticipation of that far greater message that God sends to a world of sinners, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Come for all things are now ready"?</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> The purposes of Joseph far transcend the plans of his brethren. Their plan was simply to obtain a blessing from Joseph; his purpose was to bestow a blessing, but a blessing that they should enjoy in his company and in his home. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"These men shall dine with me." (v.16)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Like the brethren of Joseph we are equally slow to take in God's thoughts of blessing. We would be content to obtain the forgiveness of sins, and salvation from hell. But how far short of God's thoughts! His thought is to have us with Himself to feast with Him in His home. But we are slow to take in the greatness of God's grace. Even as Joseph's brethren, who <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"were afraid" (v.18)</strong></span> They could only think they were brought in to be condemned, they could not imagine they were brought in to be feasted. . . .<br /><br />They looked upon Joseph as against them, as one that must be appeased. They had yet to learn that he is making all things work together for good <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Romans 8:28)</strong></span>. Instead of judging themselves they are judging Joseph. In all these marks of favour they can only imagine that Joseph is seeking occasion agains them--is going to fall upon them and make them bondmen. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(v.17,18).</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Joseph - Hamilton Smith</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9096</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me? why art Thou so far from helping Me, and from the words of My roaring </strong></span></span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>(groaning)</strong></span></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>? Psalm 22:1</strong></span><br /><br />Is it not this side of the suffering of our adorable Lord that we find so wonderfully set before us in Psalm 22? <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?"</strong></span> <u>This, the deepest suffering of all, came from God, not from man, though caused by our sins</u>. Some people would tell us that the Lord Jesus only thought that God had forsaken Him, as in Jonah's case: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I am cast out of Thy sight." (Jonah 2:4)</strong></span><br /><br />It was, however, very different in the case of our Lord and Saviour. There on the cross, He bore our sins; and with all those mountains of sins upon Him, God must turn away from Him, and it was in very truth that He uttered that awful cry, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?"</strong></span> <br /><br />We may, to some small extent (never fully), enter into what is meant to our pure and holy Saviour to bear those external sufferings and shame and reproach from man; but no human mind can ever fathom the depth of suffering contained in that terrible cry, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Eli, Eli, Lama Sabachthani?"</strong></span> <br /><br />Here, indeed, the waters compassed Him about, to the soul. It was then He took that awful cup of the wrath of a holy God against sin (the cup you and I deserved to drink), and drank it to its vey dregs. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"> G. C. Willis </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 14px;">The depths of all Thy suffering no heart can e'er conceive;<br />The cup of wrath o'er-flowing, for us Thou didst receive.</span></em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"> G. W. Frazer</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> N.J.Hiebert - 9097</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory. 2 Corinthians 4:17 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">The sorrows of earth will become the gems of glory</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">. Every suffering that Christian martyrs ever bore, every sorrow rightly felt by saints of God, under the hand of their Father, is helping to produce those precious jewels that shall ere long flash in the light of the Lord God Almighty. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">If we have to shed tears now, there is a time coming when thy will all be wiped away. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Revelation 7:17)</strong></span> It is said that God will do this. Will you have any to be removed by such a hand? Do not think it hard that you have to shed them now. Think of what it will be for God to wipe them away! </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">An aged Christian once wrote: "If I had not been called to pass through this trouble, and shed these tears, I should have missed the softness of the hand that wiped them away." </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><u>God has numbered the hairs of our head</u>, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Luke 12:7)</strong></span> and He, and no other, will wipe away our tears. Oh, the gladness of that moment! For when God has wiped them away, they will never come again! Our sins are gone for ever, because He has put them away; and our tears will go too, some day, for the same reason, never to return. Need we then be careful and troubled about many things when there is a God Who bids us cast our care upon Him, and tells us that He cares for us. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(1 Peter 5:7)</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">There is a time coming when every riddle will be solved, when infidelity shall for ever be a nightmare of the past, and faith shall reach its pinnacle of triumph; when the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord and become one vast temple to His praise; and then the one universal note of adoring worship upon every lip will surely be this: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"AS for God His way is perfect." (Psalm 18:30) </strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"> <em><strong>Angels in White - Russell Elliott </strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9098</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">If a man desire the office of a bishop, (overseer) he desireth a good work...he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach...not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil..." </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">1 Timothy 3:1,6,7</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It is one thing to be a </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>child of God</em></u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; it is quite another to be a </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><u style="font-size: 16px;">servant of Christ</u></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. I may love my child very much, yet, if I set him to work in my garden, he may do more harm than good. Why? Is it because he is not a dear child? No; but because he is not a practiced servant. This make all the difference. Relationship and office are distinct things.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Not one of the Queen's children is at present capable of being her prime minister. It is not that all God's children have not something to do, something to suffer, something to learn. Undoubtedly they have; yet it ever holds good, that <u><em>public service</em></u> and <em><u>private discipline</u></em> are intimately connected in the ways of God.<br /><br />One who comes forward much in public will need that chastened spirit, that matured judgment, that subdued and mortified mind, that broken will, that mellow tone, which are the sure and beautiful result of God's secret discipline; and it will generally be found that those who take a prominent place without more or less of the above moral qualifications, will sooner or later break down. <br /><br />Lord Jesus, keep Thy feeble servants very near unto Thine own most blessed Person, and in the hollow of Thine hand! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">C. H. Mackintosh</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9099</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>"IN THE POTTER'S HANDS"</strong></em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Nay but, O man, who art thou that repliest against God? Shall the thing formed say to Him that formed it, why hast Thou made me thus? <br />Romans 9:20</strong></span><br /><br />When sorrows deep, and burdens, mount.<br />And tears well up as from a fount,<br />My child's heart is wont to say<br />"Wherein has Thou Thy love displayed?"<br /><br /><br />Thy rod I feel, the pressure builds, <br />My Potter's hand its strength doth wield,<br />And I, an unformed lump of clay,<br />Ask "Why hast Thou formed me this way?"<br /><br />My Father's heart, how must it ache,<br />When I His love and grace mistake,<br />For vengeance or a pleasure vain,<br />When He doth keenly feel my pain? <br /><br />How dare I reason--feeble mind!<br />Or doubt the plan, wise and Divine,<br />Which, using pressure, fire or flood,<br />Would form a vessel honouring God?</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Bob Short, 2002</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9100</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Ask, and it shall be given to you. Seek, and ye shall find. Knock, and it shall be opened unto you. </strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Matthew 7:7 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Do you know the blessed power and comfort of these wonderful promises? Notice how often the word </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>shall</strong></em></u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> is repeated. What certainty we have here! His promises are sure! Let us lay hold on them by faith. Have your needs ever been greater? So many are unemployed. There is so much turmoil and evil in the world. And there is the ever-present danger of our getting out of communion with the Lord. Surely we need, therefore, to avail ourselves of these precious promises: Ask, Seek, Knock, and ye shall.... </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>Ask</u>:</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> this is the easiest to do. Nothing is too insignificant for Him. Stop in the midst of the rush of life, stop long enough to ask. </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">You cannot weary God by asking, but we do weary Him when we fail to ask</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Isaiah 7:10-13)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. He desires and delights to bless. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Ye have not because ye ask not.."</strong></span> He tells us. <br /><br /><u><strong>Seek</strong></u>: your Father delights to have you take Him at His word. As you ask and receive, your faith will increase. You will be stirred to greater energy. You will go out and seek, and in seeking you shall find. It requires more effort to seek than to ask. <br /><br />Seek to be used in blessing to others. Ours is not to be a selfish life. He gives to us that we might share our gifts with others. In seeking the blessing of others we will find a sweeter, deeper joy filling our souls. It is more blessed to give than to receive. <br /><br /><u><strong>Knock</strong></u>: and it shall be opened to you. Asking and seeking has now brought you to Him, for He opens to your knock and He will sup with you and you with Him. Again; <u><strong>Ask</strong></u>-- which you may do from where you are--you shall receive. <u><strong>Seek</strong></u>--for which you must go out--you shall find. <u><strong>Knock</strong></u>--you have been brought closer to God--and it shall be opened to you. A richer experience will be yours. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">P. E. Hall</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9101</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 18px;"><strong>ABOUNDING PROVISION</strong></span></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. Psalm 23:1</strong></span> <br /><br />These words <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(I SHALL NOT WANT)</strong></span> are as firmly linked to the clause <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(The Lord is my Shepherd)</strong></span> which precedes them, as consequence is to cause. With the Shepherd leading on in front of him, and <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"goodness and mercy"</strong></span>, like two faithful sheep-dogs, following hard behind him, <u><strong>David was as certain that he would not want anything here, as he was that he would dwell in the house of the Lord hereafter</strong></u> <strong>(compare John 10:4; Psalm 23:1and 6)</strong>. <br /><br />Now, if for the moment we regard Psalm 23 as a sweet-toned instrument, and faith as the hand which plays upon it, we shall find that it yields to that touch, music of the most exquisite sweetness. What is it that <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I shall not want?"</strong></span> The hand of faith runs over the key-board and brings out twelve distinct notes. Listen to them:</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">- I shall not want Rest, for He maketh me to lie down.<br />- I shall not want Refreshment, for He leads me by still waters.<br />- I shall not want Preservation, for He restoreth my soul.<br />- I shall not want Guidance, for He leadeth me.<br />- I shall not want Peace, for I will fear no evil.<br />- I shall not want Companionship, for Thou art with me.<br />- I shall not want Comfort, for Thy rod and staff comfort me.<br />- I shall not want Sustenance, for Thou preparest a table.<br />- I shall not want Joy, for Thou anointest my head.<br />- I shall not want Anything, for my cup runneth over.<br />- I shall not want Happiness now, for goodness and mercy follow me.<br />- I shall not want Glory hereafter, for I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Pearl of Psalms - George Henderson </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9102</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>So we laboured in the work . . . from the rising of the morning till the stars appeared. Nehemiah 4:21</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Not </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"<u>so we loitered</u>"</em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> or </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"<u>talked</u>."</em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> They had said, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Let us rise up and build."</strong></span> If a man did not work hard, he was singled our as unusual. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"So built we the wall." (v.6)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. <br /><br />Among the list of honourable names in chapter 3 there is a little sentence that I am sure the men in question would like to take out of the Bible. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But they cannot. They are forever held up to derision and shame. They lost their chance, the great chance of their lives; it never came again. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"They put not their necks to the work of their Lord." (3:5)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">How glad all the other builders must have been when the wall was joined together; each set of people had done their bit faithfully, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"for the people had a mind to work." (4:6)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. And how astonished they would be to hear that their names were written in a book that would be treasured to the end of time. <br /><br />A greater than Nehemiah commissions His builders today. He notices whether we labour or loiter. He is pleased when we work faithfully. Let us please Him today. This day will never come again.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Thou Givest They Gather - Amy Carmichael</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9103</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>THINGS SEEN AT THE CROSS </em></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>He that spared not His own Son. Romans 8:32 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">The Lord Jesus, the eternal Son of God, humbled Himself and became Man. He took the lowest place. He was obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. What must this have been for the Lord! What must it have been for the Lord when Judas betrayed him with a kiss! <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Matthew 26:49)</strong></span> What must it have been for Him to have soldiers spit in His face, to be scourged by them, and to become the object of their rude mockery and scorn! </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Yet more, how must it have affected Him to have to carry our sins, to be made sin for us, and then to be judged by a holy God who could not tolerate any sin! Under these circumstances He was surrounded by the world in its various aspects, an object of its mockery and scorn, with the full force of evil rushing upon Him. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Hear Him crying out in the Psalms, looking for pity and finding none, calling to God, "<span style="color: blue;"><strong>My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?" (Mark 15:34)</strong></span> In these very moments, while suffering unspeakably in obedience to God, He perfectly revealed God, glorifying God to the utmost. God's righteousness was seen when He struck His Son, bringing judgment over Him when He was carrying my sins. God's holiness was seen when the Lord cried, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Why hast Thou forsaken me?"</strong></span> Greater yet, there it was gloriously revealed that <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"God is love"! </strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>(1 John 4:8)</strong></span>. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">There we see a God who was giving His only begotten Son into death; yes, a <u>God who personally was judging His Son to save guilty lost sinners from that judgment</u>! Never did God look upon His Son with more delight then during these very moments when He had to hide His face from Him because He was bearing my judgment. What must it have been for God to forsake His Son when He was hanging alone upon the cross, surrounded by His enemies. <em><strong>H. L. Heijkoop</strong></em> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9104</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>If thou seekest her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God. (Proverbs 2:4,5) </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.<br />Colossians 2:3</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">I remember reading a story about a man who was exploring some caves by the seashore. In one of the caves he found an old canvas bag filled with a quantity of hardened clay balls. It appeared that someone had rolled clay balls and left them out in the sun to bake. They didn't appear to have any value, but they intrigued the man and so he took the bag with him.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> <br />As he strolled along the beach, to pass the time, he would occasionally throw one of the clay balls as far into the ocean as he was able. He thought little of this activity until he accidentally dropped one of the balls on a rock, cracking open the dry, clay. <br /> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br />The man was startled to find inside what appeared to be a beautiful gemstone. He excitedly broke open the remaining clay balls finding a similar gem in each. A jeweller confirmed the value of the gems he had found. The 20 or so clay balls he still had when finding the the hidden treasure were worth hundreds upon hundreds of dollars. But he had been walking on the beach a long time. Sadly, he estimated that he had thrown some 50 or 60 of the clay balls with their hidden treasure far out into the ocean waves. He realized that his careless actions caused him to throw away a small fortune into the ocean depths. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br />Must we not admit that too often it is so with us as well when reading the precious Word of God? In </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Psalms 19:7-11</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, '</span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">six precious jewels</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">' of the Lord are recorded for our blessing: His </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">law</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">testimony</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">statues</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">commandments</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">fear</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> and </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">judgments</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. We learn their value in </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold...and in of keeping them there is great reward." (vv 10,11)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> <br />How can we claim and keep these precious jewels for ourselves apart from diligently reading and meditating on God's Word? Perhaps, at times, we allow the vast oceans of this world's pleasures and occupations to dull our appreciation of the precious treasures of God's Word. How many <strong><em>true riches</em></strong> that our Father would delight to have us enjoy, are thoughtlessly cast away! <br /><em><strong>The Christian Shepherd - February 2007</strong></em> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 9105</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 28</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Show me Thy ways, O Lord; teach me Thy paths. Psalm 25:4</strong></span><br /><br />If every matter I am uncertain about were worked out like a mathematical problem and handed to me in a dream, I would <u>walk by sight instead of faith</u>. <br /><br />If I were suddenly changed into a full-grown Christian character, I would not remain so. For the very struggle and persistence of striving after goodness through the years is what knits together the integrity of a sturdy soul. So now I trust and obey. I do not ask for sign or fleece <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Judges 6:37-40)</strong></span> for answers to my problems.<br /><br />Yet <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"His grace is sufficient for me," (2 Corinthians 12:5)</strong></span> and as I travel along, the way grows clear and looking back shows me that Wisdom greater than my own has had in mind the journey. I do not know or understand much in the universe around me; only the present I see and both ends fade out of my sight. But I know the threads come from somewhere and go somewhere and that God holds them in His hand. <br /><br />Help me to obey. and to live my life according to the light I have today. I may learn more tomorrow. But if I did my best according to His light I shall not grieve. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Trust and do good</strong></span>. There is enough packed in those four words to keep every moment filled with thought and action. <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Trust in the Lord, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed." (Psalm 37:3)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">In Tune With Heaven - Vance Havner </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 14px;">Trust and obey for there's no other way<br />To be happy in Jesus but to trust and obey</span></em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. H. Sammis</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9106</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>". . . pray for them which despitefully use you . . ." Matthew 5:44<br /> </strong></span> <br />It is so easy to become jealous, to believe false rumours, to form unfair opinions, and to say harsh things about our neighbours and associates. People are so prone to answer such attacks in a like manner. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">On one occasion Francis Asbury received an abusive anonymous letter. In his journal he wrote as follows: "I came from my knees to receive the letter, and having read it, I returned whence I came." How can I live this day so that people will say as they said in the early period of the church, "Behold, how the Christians love one another!" <br /><br /><strong>IF I WERE YOU</strong><br /><br /><em><strong>It is easy to say the quick, sharp word<br />That will hurt him through and through--<br />The friend you have always held so dear--<br />But I wouldn't, if I were you. <br /><br />It is easy to spread an idle tale<br />That perhaps may not be true, <br />And give it wings like the thistledown,<br />But I wouldn't, if I were you.<br /><br />To words once spoken, if harsh, unkind, <br />You must ever bid adieu,<br />And though you may speak them if you will,<br />Yet I wouldn't, if I were you.</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Florence Jones Hadley </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Drop the subject when you cannot agree; there is no need to be bitter because you know you are right. Leave it all quietly with Him! <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9107</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 30</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Thy Word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee. Psalm 119:11 <br /><br />Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. Psalm 119:105<br /><br />Where-with-all shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to Thy Word. </span></strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Psalm 119:9</span></strong><br /><br />How can youth keep its way shining through a dark world? How can you reach the goal--CHRIST? By taking heed thereto, by stepping carefully and guiding your life by what your soul is learning of God in the text of Holy Scripture. <br /><br />By keeping company with Christ as your best Friend--never ceasing until you are on such terms with Him that you talk to Him more intimately than to wife or child, lover or friend, and He talks with you. <br /><br />That does not only mean you have a Bible in your pocket--thank God if you have--but it means that you have Christ in your heart. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Harold St. John - A Portrait by His daughter Patricia</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9108</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 31</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus. John 11:5</strong></span><br /><br />Jesus does not want all His loved ones to be of one mould or colour. He does not seek uniformity. He will not remove our individuality; He only seeks to glorify it. He loved <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus."</strong></span> <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Jesus loved Martha."</strong></span> Martha is our Biblical example of a practical woman; <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Martha served".</strong></span> In that place is enshrined her character. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"And her sister."</strong></span> Mary was contemplative, <em>spending long hours in deep communion with the Lord</em>. <br /><br />We need the Marys as well as the Marthas--the deep contemplative souls, whose spirits shed a fragrant restfulness over the hard and busy streets. We need the souls who sit at Jesus' feet and listen to His word, and then interpret the sweet gospel to a tired and weary world. <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"And Lazarus."</strong></span> what do we know about him? Nothing! <em>Lazarus seems to have been undistinguished and commonplace.</em> Yet Jesus loved him. What a huge multitude come under the category of "<u><em>nobodies</em></u>"! Their names are on the register of births, and on the register of deaths, and the space between is a great obscurity. <br /><br />Thank God for the common place people! They turn our houses into homes; they make life restful and sweet. Jesus loves the common place. Here then is a great, comforting thought: we are all loved-- the brilliant and the commonplace, the dreamy and the practical.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Loved! then the way will not be drear, for One we know is ever near,<br />Proving it to our hearts so clear that we are loved.<br /><br />Loved when we sing the glad new song to Christ, for whom we've waited long,<br />With all the happy ransomed throng--for ever loved. </strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus."</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. H. Howett</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9109</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall. . . . God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able." </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>1 Corinthians 10:12,13 </strong></span><br /><br />What we have to do, whether to Christians, to backsliders, or to sinners, is to maintain the attitude of God towards each of these classes. <br /><br />He never gives up one of His own, nor diminishes His love, though He does change His manner. As someone has said, <em><u>we do not cease to love, but we do not caress a naughty child</u></em>. <br /><br />The perfection of the christian life is absolute trust in God. All roads lead to this, and the one who reaches it in any measure will never be confounded. <br /><br />Waiting before the Lord is the sure means of qualification for obedience to His bidding. The fear of God can lift the feeblest and humblest above the fear of man. <br /><br /><u><em>Sympathy</em></u> is the rarest of all ministries, as it is also the sweetest; it makes no show in the world, but it leaves its mark. In praying for the sick I once heard a brother use this expression: "<em><u>May those who are too weak to <strong>pray</strong> be able to <strong>lean</strong>.</u></em>" <br /><br />Until the soul is at peace and in liberty divine things cannot be communicated. We get rest by a revelation of the Father's love through Christ. . . . There is no pillow like love, and we have the Lord's perfect love to rest upon. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">E. Dennett</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9110</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Upon the first day of the week let everyone of you lay by him in store as God hath prospered him. 1 Corinthians 16:2 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Have you ever wondered why the Lord chose the first day of the week for us to lay aside something? Was it for convenience's sake? Was it because then we could just remember how our income was during the past week and give in relation to that? </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The first day of the week, Sunday, or the Lord's Day, is the day when the Lord rose from the dead. The disciples were together that day and the Lord revealed Himself to them. A week later, again on the first day of the week, the disciples being together, again the Lord revealed Himself to them. <br /><br />It became the practise that the believers met together on the first day of the week, and on that day they remembered the Lord in partaking of the bread and wine in memory of their Lord, and we continue this still today.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">As we take the bread and eat of it, we remember the death of the Lord on the cross, His body given as a sacrifice; and as we drink from the cup, we remember that God's holiness and righteousness have been satisfied in the matter of sin because the Lord shed His blood, gave His life, and died in our place. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We remember, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich. (2 Corinthians 8:9)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">As we reflect on His riches and HIs poverty and His great sacrifice, should this not affect our hearts in relation to what we give Him in our offering every first day of the week? Considering Him, our giving will not be a mechanical percentage, it will not be an obligatory custom of putting some money in the collection, but it will be an offering of gratitude, a sweet-smelling savour to God, an act of worship. <em><strong>A. Blok.</strong></em> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9111</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away. Matthew 24:35 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Bibles are more plentiful today than they ever have been. The words of the Lord Jesus are better known and loved by a greater multitude today than ever before in the history of the world. The Gospels have been handed down by the noblest of earth, through rivers of blood, at the cost of liberty and life, in the history of every nation in Christendom.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Christians have fought by weakness, enemies as diverse as Herod, Pontius Pilate, and the people of Israel, and have always been victorious. The enemy, the devil, in one age, has prepared his weapons in the monasteries of superstition; in another he has conducted his warfare from the colleges of infidelity; but whether Greek or Jew, ignorant or intellectual, every weapon has failed. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Passed away! What has passed away? The kings of earth have passed away. The cruelty of the Inquisition and the scoffings of Voltaire have passed away. Whatever opposition may arise to God and His Word shall surely pass away: for the Son of Man who was the Son of God, said, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Heaven and earth shall pass away, but My words shall not pass away."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Let the ages answer. Let history come with the officers to the seat of power and learning. With one voice all will say, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Never man spake like this Man." (John 7:46)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. The Words of the Lord Jesus were often promises as well as declarations. They were promises that could be tested; promises that </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>have</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> been tested, thousands and thousands of times. Whoever found fault with </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Matthew 11:28? "Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">A Plant of Renown - Leonard Sheldrake</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9112</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">February 4</span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-68980702331744195572022-12-01T06:15:00.044-05:002022-12-30T08:51:00.570-05:00Gems from December 2022<p><strong style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. 2 Timothy 1:11 </strong></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The faithful in this day may indeed be a small and insignificant minority, even as the Apostle Paul and the few who were associated with him at the close of his life; nevertheless, in <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"that day"</strong></span> it will be found to be far better to have been with the despised few than with the unfaithful mass. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The vanity of the flesh likes to be popular and self important and make itself prominent before the world and the saints, but in view of that day it is better to take a lowly place in self-effacement rather than a pubic place in self-advertisement, for then it will be found that many that are first shall be last; and the last first. <br /><br />We may indeed suffer for our own failure, and this should humble us. Nevertheless, with the example of the Apostle before us, we do well to remember that had we walked in absolute faithfulness we should have suffered still more, for it ever remains true that <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. (3:12)</strong></span>. <br /><br />If we are faithful to the light that God has given us, and seek to walk in separation from all that is a denial of the truth, we shall find, in our little measure that we shall have to face persecution and opposition, and, in its most painful forms, from our fellow-Christians. <br /><br />Well for us, when the trial comes, if we can, like Paul, commit all to the Lord, and wait for His vindication in that day. Too often we are fretful and impatient in the presence of wrongs and seek to have them righted in <span style="color: blue;"><strong>this day</strong></span> instead of waiting for <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"that day"</strong></span>. If, in the faith of our souls, the glory of that day shines before us, instead of being tempted to rebel at the insults and wrongs that may be allowed, we shall <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"rejoice and be exceeding glad"</strong></span> for, says the Lord, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"great is your reward in heaven" (Matthew 5:12)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Hamilton Smith </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9047</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, they hated me without a cause. John 15:25<br /><br />We love Him, because He first loved us. 1 John 4:19 </strong></span><br /><br />He who was hated without a cause loved without a cause. In fact His love without cause both preceded and will outlast the hatred expressed toward Him. The Lord never states the reason for His love, but He always gives the reason for His judgment. <br /><br />It is the wonder of all wonders that He loved us when we were unlovable and so much so that He gave His Son to die for us. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Gary W. Seale</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">When I know that for me He the anguish bore,<br />That from sin He might set me free,<br />Oh, I know that I'll love Him forever more,<br />When I think of His love for me.</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Louis Paul Lehman, Jr. </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">The love of God is greater far than tongue or pen can ever tell;<br />It goes beyond the highest star, and reaches to the lowest hell.<br />Though guilty we, yet on the tree God gave His Son to win;<br />All who believe are reconciled, and pardoned from their sin.<br /><br />Could we with ink the ocean fill, and were the skies of parchment made;<br />Were every stalk on earth a quill, and every man a scribe by trade;<br />To write the love of God above would drain the ocean dry;<br />Nor could the scroll contain the whole, though stretched from sky to sky.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 13px;">Fredrick Martin Lehman </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9048</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Thy Word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee. Psalm 119:11 </strong></span><br /><br />When we speak on that verse to the little people, we tell them that there you have the right word- Thy Word; <u>in the right place</u>--<u>my</u> <u>heart</u>; <u>for the right purpose</u>--<u>that I might not sin against God</u>. We older folk are the children of eternity; we, too, need to hide our Father's Word in our hearts; and so I pass on a few suggestions that may enable rightly to divide the Word of truth.<br /><br />- When you are in sorrow, read John 14.<br />- When men fail you, read Psalm 27.<br />- When you have sinned, read Psalm 51.<br />- When you are worried, read Matthew 6. <br />- When God seems far away, read Psalm 139.<br />- When you are discouraged, read Isaiah 40.<br />- If you want to be fruitful, read John 15.<br />- To recount your blessings, read Psalm 103.<br />- When your faith is weak, read Hebrews 11.<br />- When you want courage, read Joshua 1.<br />- When feeling down and out, read Romans 8.<br />- When loved ones pass on, read Psalm 90.<br />- When inclined to be critical, read 1 Corinthians 13.<br />- Before undertaking a journey, read Psalm 121. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Henry Durbanville </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9049</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>BEING WHERE GOD WANTS US TO BE</em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">And the Lord spake unto the fish, and it vomited out Jonah upon the dry land. Jonah 2:10 </span></strong><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Initially, Jonah refused to do what he knew to be the will of God. Has that not been true of all of us? But God brought Jonah to his senses and delivered him! Jonah came up from the depths of the sea humbled and chastened, but scarcely broken, for the concluding chapter of his book shows that he still had much to learn. But he had experienced the power of God to lay low those who rise up against His will, and he was also assured that, come what may, God will never cast off His own. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We need not suppose that the great fish remained stationary during Jonah's imprisonment; the eye of the Creator was upon it, and it was guided to drop the prophet just where the Lord wanted him. The obedience of the humblest creatures, as recorded in Scripture, is deeply instructive. The Lord Jesus, when on earth, wanted a fish which possessed a shekel, and to have that particular fish--and no other--caught on Peter's hook <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Matthew 17:27).</strong></span> <br /><br />The colt upon which no man ever sat, an untamed novice for work, obediently carried the Lord through the streets of Jerusalem <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Matthew 21:7)</strong></span>. In like manner, this sea monster was at the appointed place when Jonah was cast out of the ship; it took care of him for the divinely appointed period, and then released him in God's time, and in the place where God required him. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> Alas that man, the most gifted of all earthy creatures, should be the arch rebel of this planet!</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>We are of the most use to God when we are where He wants us to be</u>. God wanted Jonah to be in Nineveh. Where does He want you? Even when we are in the right place at the right time, we need the guidance of the Spirit constantly as to what we should say or do. We may know this truth, but it is essential that we put it into practice! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">W. W. Feredy </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9050</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And they said unto me (Nehemiah) the remnant that are left of the captivity...are in great affliction and reproach...when I heard these words I wept...and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven. Nehemiah 1:3,4 </strong></span><br /> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">Nehemiah's heart was very heavy as he went to his room in the royal palace. But he must have remembered his own name and its meaning: <strong style="font-size: 16px;">Nehemiah</strong>, <u style="font-size: 16px;"><em>The Lord is my comforter</em></u>. He went to his Comforter...and he poured out all his sorrow to God.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> Suppose we walk through a conservatory and admire rare flowers of all types. We see a beautiful plant (azalea) covered with hundreds of pure white blossoms. But there is so much else to see that we scarcely notice it. We are not amazed to see it healthy and covered in blossoms, for we know that it has the ideal circumstances to grow. <br /><br />But suppose, that walking through the slums of a huge city we see in an attic window a similar azalea. Now we are really surprised to see it, for it is in the most unlikely place; there is nothing to encourage its growth, yet there it stands, a marvel of beauty. Surely in Nehemiah we have seen the white flower in the attic. We expect fo find a man of God, breathing in the very atmosphere of purity, with godly people all around him...no one would be astonished to find a man of God in such a place.<br /><br /> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"> But here was Nehemiah living in a heathen palace, in the midst of a wicked court, surrounded by drunkenness, and all that is vile and impure, breathing in the atmosphere of sin. Yet we find him a plant of the Lord, as pure as the azalea, a man of faith, prayer, a holy man of God. He was a flourishing plant in the garden of the Lord. Are we ever tempted to say in our hearts, I cannot serve the Master faithfully. If I were in another position, if my home life were favourable to my deciding for Christ, if I had different companions, a different job and surroundings then I would grow in grace.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> What does the Master say as He hears words like these? <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"My grace is sufficient for thee." "As thy day so shall they strength be."</strong></span> Even in most unlikely soil God can make His plants grow and flourish and fruitful. If I do not become a flourishing plant, it is not my position that is to blame. It is because I will not seek that grace which the Lord is ready to give me. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Ye have not because ye ask not. Ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full</strong></span>.<span style="color: blue;"><strong> (John 16:24)</strong></span> <em><strong>Mrs. O. F. Walton</strong></em><br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 9051</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">". . . According as He hath promised, . . ." </span></strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Exodus 12:25 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Andrew Murray said </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"<u>When you get a promise from God it is worth just as much as fulfillment</u>.</em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>A promise brings you into direct contact with God. Honour Him by trusting the promise and obeying Him</em></u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">." Worth just as much as fulfillment! </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Do we grasp that truth often? Are we not frequently in the state of trying to believe, instead of realizing that these promises bring us into contact with God? "</span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>God's promise is as good as His presence</strong></u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">." </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">To believe and accept the promise of God is not to engage in some mental gymnastics where we reach down into our imaginations and begin a process of auto-suggestion, or produce a notional faith in which we argue with ourselves in an endeavour to believe God. It is absolute confidence in and reliance upon God through His Word. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">By a naked faith in a naked promise I do not mean a bare assent that God is faithful, and that such a promise in the Book of God may be fulfilled in me, but a bold, hearty, steady venturing of my soul, body, and spirit upon the truth of the promise with an appropriating act. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>"When once His word is past, when He hath said, 'I will,'<br />The thing shall come at last; God keeps His promise still."</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"And God said . . . and it was so." (Genesis 1:9.)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Mountain Trailways</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 9052</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>And He spake many things unto them in parables, saying, behold a sower went forth to sow; and when he sowed, some seeds . . . fell upon stony places, where they had not much earth: and forthwith they sprung up, because they had no deepness of earth: and when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root they withered away. Matthew 13:3-6 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Many take up their godliness upon trust, and trade in religion with the credit they have gained from others' opinion of them. They believe themselves to be Christians, because others hope them to be such; and so their great business is, by a zeal in those exercises of religion that lie outermost, to keep up the credit they have abroad, but do not look to get a stock of solid grace within; and this proves their undoing at last. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">They say trees shoot as much in the root underground as in the branches above, and so does true grace. Remember what was the perishing of the seed in stony ground! It lacked root; and why so because it was stony? Be willing that the plough go deep enough to humble you for sin, and rend your heart from sin. <br /><br />A hypocrite never got pardon in the disguise of a saint. He will call you by your own name, though you come to Him in the semblance of a penitent: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Come in, thou, wife of Jeroboam; why feignest thou thyself to be another?" (1 Kings 14:6)</strong></span>, said the prophet. <u>Hypocrisy is too thin a veil to blind the eyes of the Almighty</u>. You may put your own eyes out, so as not to see Him, but you can never blind HIS eyes so that HE should not see you. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Christian In Complete Armour - William Gurnall (1617-1679) </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9053</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">After this I beheld, and, lo, a great multitude, which no man could number, of all nations, and kindreds, and people, and tongues, stood before the throne, and before the Lamb, clothed with white robes, and palms in their hands; and cried with a loud voice, saying, Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb" Revelation 7:9-10. </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Thus, the following three scriptures may be read in most interesting and profitable connection. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">- In <u>Genesis 11</u>, God gives various tongues as an expression of His </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>judgment.</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">- In <u>Acts 2</u>, He gives various tongues as an expression of </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>grace</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">- In <u>Revelation 7</u>, we see all those tongues gathered around the Lamb in </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>glory</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">How much better it is, therefore, to find our place in God's association than in man's! <br />- The former ends in glory,<br />- The later in confusion;<br />- The former is carried forward by the energy of the Holy Ghost,<br />- The later by the unhallowed energy of fallen man;<br />- The former has for its object the exhalation of Christ,<br />- The later has for its object the exaltation of man, in some way or other.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Finally, I would say, that all who would sincerely desire to know the true character, object and issue of human associations, should read the opening verse of Genesis 11; and, on the other hand, all who desire to know the excellency, the beauty, the power, the enduring character of divine association, should look at that holy, living, heavenly corporation, which is called, in the New Testament, the Church of the living God--the body of Christ--the bride of the Lamb.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Notes on<span style="font-size: 16px;"> </span>Genesis - C. H. Mackintosh </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9054</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>GOD'S ESTIMATE OF THE BLOOD, NOT OURS </em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">When I see the blood, I will pass over you. </span></strong></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;">Exodus 12:13</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Where the blood was sprinkled, salvation was the result; and where no blood was seen, the plague fell. God passed through the land that night in judgment, and </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"there was not a house where there was not one dead" (Exodus 12:30)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. In the houses of Israel there was one dead: </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>the lamb</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, the victim, the substitute. In the houses of Egypt there was one dead: </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>the firstborn</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. In the houses of Israel the lamb had died instead of the firstborn, and that brought peace to many a household that night. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">You might have gone up to a young man in one of the households of Israel, who was the firstborn, and asked him:<strong><em> How is it with you tonight? Have you peace?</em></strong>--Perfect peace! How do you feel?--<u>I do not rest on my feelings, but on the word of Jehovah</u>. The blood is upon the lintel. It was my father's work to put it there, but I assure you, I took good care to see that it was done; my life would go this night if the blood were not there. But the blood is there, and Jehovah has said, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"When I see the blood, I will pass over you."</strong></span> <em><strong>And are you at rest?</strong></em> At perfect rest. <u>The blood is the basis of my peace, not what I feel</u>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Peace is not a feeling; it is not an emotion; it is not an experience; it flows from the fact that the claims of God have been met by the Lamb of God, and God respects His precious blood. As one has said, the blood of Jesus has reached, and touched, the very memory of God, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Their sins and iniquities will I remember no more." (Hebrews 10:17)</strong></span> Its value God alone knows. You and I do not know the value of the blood of Christ. We do value it surely, but our valuation of it is very poor and inadequate. God knows its value perfectly; He esteems its worth fully; and He says to you and me, <u>"Trust that blood; get under its shelter."</u> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">W. T. P. Wolston</span></strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9055</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And it came to pass, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed: and when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed. But Moses' hands were heavy; and they took a stone, and put it under him, and he sat thereon; and Aaron and Hur stayed up his hands, the one on the one side, and the other on the other side; and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun. Exodus 17:11,12 </strong></span><br /><br />That is the kind of prayer that is much assaulted. Moses' hands were heavy. So are ours often, and we are very apt to lean on Aaron and Hur to hold them up--in other words, to depend on others to help us by their earnestness and steadfastness. <br /><br />There is something kindling to prayer in being with others who are praying, and all through the Bible this is recognized--even in Gethsemane our dear Lord seems to have wanted human companionship in prayer. <br /><br />But He pressed through that sense of need as He must have done often before, and He can give it to us to press through. He can teach us more than we have yet learned of <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"In whom we have boldness and access with confidence by the faith of Him." (Ephesians 3:12)</strong></span>. <br /><br />He can draw us deep into His own blessed Presence, even as He drew many a man of old--and among them was Moses--and He can strengthen our hands so that they shall be steady until the going down of the sun. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Thou Givest...They Gather - Amy Carmichael </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9056</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And he (Eli) said unto them, why do ye such things?...it is no good report that I hear of your evil dealings...ye make the Lord's people to transgress. 1 Samuel 2:23,24 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We are living in times characterized by a certain activity in service. This activity often presses itself upon ourselves and others, for it has the appearance of great zeal for the Lord and for His work. It may even be accompanied by eminent </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>gifts</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, but the gifts and activity are of little significance, if there is not the corresponding </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>moral character</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. <br /><br />This moral character was grievously flawed in Eli's case; and without this character there can be </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>no true service</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> according to God. Samuel offers a striking contrast to this state of things in every detail. In his case, we may trace the uninterrupted development of a life of holiness despite more than one weakness, for perfection is found only in Christ. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">1 - Samuel was still only a small child, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"And he <u>worshipped</u> the Lord there.(v.28)</strong></span>. <br />2. - <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"The child <u><em>ministered</em></u> <u>unto the Lord before Eli</u> the priest (v.2:11)</strong></span>. <br />3 - <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"But Samuel <u>ministered before the Lord</u>." (v.2:18)</strong></span>. <br />4 - <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"And the boy Samuel <u>grew before the Lord</u>." (v.21)</strong></span>. <br />5 - <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Samuel grew on, and was <u>in favour with the Lord, and with men</u>." (v.26)</strong></span>.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> .<br /><br />The relationship of affection between Samuel and the Lord caused his walk to draw the attention of men, who took note of it as a walk pleasing to the Lord. Intimacy with God was reflected in the face of this young boy. This is what is told us of John the Baptist <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Luke 1:80)</strong></span>, and for how much greater reason, of Jesus: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Jesus advanced in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man" (Luke 2:52)</strong></span>. All the power of our Christian testimony depends on a secret life spent in the Lord's presence. May God grant us to resemble young Samuel in our conduct more than Eli. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">1 Samuel - Henri L. Rossier</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 9057</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance. Proverbs 15:13 <br />A merry heart doeth good like a medicine. </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Proverbs 17:22<br />These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. Matthew 15:11</strong></span><br /><br />The wise man affirms that a merry heart maketh a cheerful </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">countenance, and doeth good like a medicine. What is more refreshing than the merry laugh of a child? <br /><br />It is the bubbling up of the fountain of innocence and simplicity in the little one's heart. Did not our Master bid us to become as little children? <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.<br /> (Matthew 18:3) </strong></span><br /><br />Be assured then that you will make your own life happier and better, and through your happiness the lives of others happier and better by using the faculty of cheerfulness.<br /><br />- to heal dissensions,<br />- to solve anger,<br />- to mitigate suffering,<br />- to cheer adversity,<br />- to save us from the wearing action of petty troubles,<br />- to arm us with the brightness of spirit which makes the best, and not the worst, of everything! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Winsome Christianity - Henry Durbanville </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9058</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>THE WORLD IN NOAH'S DAY</strong><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>But the heavens and the earth, which are now, by the same word are kept in store, reserved unto fire against the day of judgment and perdition of ungodly men. </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>2 Peter 3:4-7 </strong></span><br /><br />The busy world was pressing on its way<br />Intent to plant and build, to sell and buy:<br />And neither knew nor cared that every day<br />The Lord Himself came from His home on high, </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>To walk with men</u>. <br /><br />And thus the course of time its way fast rolled,<br />Till soon three hundred years were fully gone.<br />While Enoch, prophet of the Lord, foretold<br />The Lord with thousands of His saints will come, </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>Will come to judge</u>. <br /><br />Alas, the busy world still sped its way,<br />Nor thought, not cared, for God's most solemn cry.<br />Then, strangely, Enoch was not found one day,<br />For God had taken him to dwell on high, </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>To dwell with Him</u>. <br /><br />But Enoch's son still spread the message grave:<br />"When I shall die the judgment sure must fall."<br />And Noah build an ark their souls to save:<br />He, too, while building, preached the solemn call: </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>The judge is near</u>. <br /><br />The world sped on without a thought of God. <br />No time had they to hear what <strong>He</strong> might say.<br />Nor did they know until had come the flood<br />And took them all, yea, every one, away: </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>The judge had come</u>. <br /><br />And still the busy world runs its own way,<br />Intent to plant and build, to sell and buy:<br />And heed not, just as 'twas in Noah's day,<br />That God still sends abroad that solemn cry: </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>The judge is near.</u><br /><br />Before shall swiftly fall that judgment dire,<br />Like Enoch once, our God shall claim His own.<br />The world, and all its works, are burnt with fire;<br />But <strong>His</strong> shall walk with <strong>Him</strong> in white, at Home: </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>At home, with Him</u>!</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">G. Christopher Willis</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;">(From the Chinese edition)</strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9059</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong><u>They that wait upon the Lord</u> shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; <u>they shall run, and not be weary</u>; and they shall walk, and not faint. Isaiah 40:31 </strong></span><br /><br />It is important to discern both the distinction and the connection between mounting up with wings as eagles, and what it means to <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"run and not be weary."</strong></span> Running implies a closer touch with this present scene and our actual surroundings. <br /><br />It is the effort to get through to reach a certain end. But we should know nothing of that end and certainly have no desire to reach it except, first of all, we <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"mount up with wings as eagles.</strong></span>" <br /><br />Apart from the first experience, the second would be impossible. When a person runs he usually has some object before him. And herein lies the connection between mounting up and and running. In mounting up we apprehend the true goal of the Christian calling, and this gives both the desire and energy to run the race set before us. <br /><br />How necessary then to mount up; for the renewed spirit, to soar, so to speak, into its own domain, and breathe its native air! It is this that starts us on the race. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Angels in White - Russell Elliott </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9060</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you. Acts 1:8</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 14px;">Do Thou, the very God of peace, us wholly sanctify,<br />And grant us such a rich increase of power from on high,<br />That spirit, soul and body may, preservéd free from stain,<br />Be blameless until that great day; Lord Jesus Christ, Amen! </span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Unbelief is a barrier that shuts out the inflow of divine power.<br /><br />A lady once called to see me and said, "I want you to tell me the secret of power." I replied, "It is being broken to pieces and the </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">consciousness of that." </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">J.N.D. has somewhere said that when we are occupied wth past manifestations of the power of the Holy Ghost we are seldom in the current of His working at the present moment. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>It is only by the Lord's own power that the smallest of His precepts can be translated into practice</u>; while it is equally true that His largest requests are as easy of performance as the smallest, inasmuch as adequate power is always at the service of faith. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>Unconscious testimony is always the most powerful</u>. I often think that at the judgment seat of Christ we shall find a word we have spoken casually, a little sentence dropped, has been more used than all our preaching and lectures. <br /><br />The humblest believer walking in obedience to the Lord and dependence upon Him is displaying the greatest spiritual power. <u>Power is displayed by the coming out of Christ in daily life</u>. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Edward Dennett </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9061</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">For consider Him that endured such contradiction of sinners against Himself. Hebrews 12:3</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><u>We know</u> that the wages of sin is death. <u>We know</u> that Adam and Eve were warned that the day they ate of the fruit of the tree, which would be sin, they would die. <u>We also understand</u> that all have sinned and there was nothing we could do to resolve this problem--neither riches, nor works, nor our own self-righteousness could make us right with God. So by faith <u>we understand</u> and gratefully accept the finished work of our substitute, the Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But we wonder why such a cruel, painful, shameful, terrible death was necessary. Yes, we know that some of the Lord's sufferings were prophesied in the Old Testament, so these scriptures had to be fulfilled. But since God wrote the Bible, He could easily have written it without these prophesies so that they would not have to touch our dear Lord Jesus. </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The Old Testament requirement of capital punishment was by stoning, but the Lord's death was much more excruciating than that</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Besides all of the abuses of shame, abandonment, and deception before and during His death, He suffered immeasurable physical pain. His back was <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"plowed"</strong></span> with long furrows; His face was <u>disfigured</u> more than any man's; His <u>beard hairs were ripped out</u>; a <u>crown of thorns</u> was placed on and then <u>beaten into His head</u>; He was <u>spat upon</u> by an entire band of Roman soldiers; He <u>died by crucifixion</u>, with all that implies, as a common criminal between two criminals; and His <u>clothing was divided between His executioners</u>. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Albert Blok</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But... </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">"The depth of all Thy suffering no heart could e're conceive;<br />The cup of wrath o'er flowing for us Thou didst receive;<br />And, oh! of God forsaken, on the accursed tree. <br />With grateful hearts Lord Jesus, we would remember Thee." G. W. Frazer</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9062</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>The eternal God is thy refuge . . . Deuteronomy 33:27 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">One night during a terrific storm a man walked along the shore of the sea. The clouds hung low overhead. The wind howled. Thunders roared. Lightening flashed and the rain poured down in torrents. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The man pulled his overcoat closer around him, bent his body to the wind and hurried home. A little bird lost in the storm sought shelter under his coat; he took it in his hand, carried it home, placed it in a warm cage. <br /><br />The next morning after the storm had subsided, and the clouds had cleared away, he took the little bird to the door. It paused on his hand for a moment; then lifting its tiny wings, it hurried back to its forest home. <br /><br />Then it was that <strong>Charles Wesley</strong> caught the vision, and going back to his room he wrote the words to a song that is loved around the world today and will live on in time: <br /><br /><em>Jesus lover of my soul let me to thy bosom fly,<br />While the nearer waters roll, while the tempest still is high:<br /><br />Hide me, O my Saviour, hide, till the storm of life be past;<br />Safe into the haven guide, O receive my soul at last!<br /><br />Other refuge have I none, hangs my helpless soul on Thee;<br />Leave, ah! leave me not alone; still support and comfort me. </em><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9063</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure. Philippians 2:13</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It is said that once Mendelssohn came to see the great Freiburg organ. The old custodian refused him permission to play upon the instrument, not knowing who he was. <br /><br />At length however, he reluctantly granted him leave to play a few notes. Mendelssohn took his seat, and soon the most wonderful music was breaking forth from the organ. The custodian was spellbound. <br /><br />He came up beside the great musician and asked his name. Learning it, he stood humiliated, self-condemned, saying, "And I refused you permission to play upon my organ!" <br /><br />There comes One to us, who desires to take our lives and play upon them. But we withhold ourselves from Him, and refuse Him permission, when, if we would yield ourselves to Him, He would bring from our souls heavenly music. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">(From "Sanctification - What It Really Is.") </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9064</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>REPORT OR REALITY?<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">But Him they saw not. Luke 24:24 </span></strong><br /><br />The Emmaus disciples had the testimony of the women, the angels and other disciples, but, like these other disciples, they had not seen the risen Lord Himself to know Him. Something had happened. Jesus was not in the grave. But they had not seen Him. <br /><br />There is a lot of talk about the resurrection that gets no farther than that. Something happened. The grave is empty. But there is lacking the vibrant witness, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"We have seen the Lord!" (John 20:25).</strong></span> <br /><br />Much is said about the return of Christ that lacks the warmth of His person. We discuss the program of events, what is going to happen, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"but Him we see not."</strong></span> <br /><br />That goes for all the great truths about Him. We tell what others have said. We discuss the matter. But Him we see not. Our <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"eyes are holden" (24:16)</strong></span>. A few minutes later these Emmaus disciples were not like the same persons. They had a glowing testimony, and as they related it He appeared again!<span style="color: blue;"><strong> (Luke 24,35,36)</strong></span> His resurrection was <u><strong>no longer a Report</strong></u> but <u><strong>a Reality</strong></u>! </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Day by Day with Vance Havner </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9065</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Now the end of the commandment is charity (love) out of a pure heart, and of a good conscience, and of faith unfeigned. 1 Timothy 1:5</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We shall only be kept as we hold the truth in conjunction with <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"love out of a pure heart, a good conscience, and faith unfeigned."</strong></span> Sound doctrine can only be maintained with a right moral condition. Speculative questions can be raised and discussed by the human mind apart from a right moral condition of soul, for they leave the conscience and affections untouched, and therefore do not bring the soul into the presence of God. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In contrast to man's speculations, the truth of God can only be apprehended by faith. Acting upon the conscience and the heart, the truth leads to the strengthening of the moral relations of the soul with God. Thus the truth edifies by leading to love out of a pure heart, a good conscience, and faith unfeigned. To exhort to these practical results was the great </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>end</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> of the charge to the Ephesian believers. The charge was not to do some great service or make some great sacrifice. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It was not </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"doing"</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> great things before men, but </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"being"</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> in a right condition before God. Love in the heart, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"a good conscience"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> and </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"faith unfeigned"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> are qualities which God alone can see, though others may see the effect they produce in the life.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Thus, in these opening verses, the Apostle brings before us the charge to teach no other doctrines than the doctrines of grace, and the necessity of a right spiritual condition in order to maintain the truth and be preserved from error. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 13px;">The First Epistle to Timothy by Hamilton Smith </span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9066</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. John 1:1</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"From the beginning," (1 John 2:14)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> is not the same as, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"In the beginning."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> You and I could not know Him in the beginning; God the Father alone knew Him in the past eternity. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> But when we say, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"From the beginning,"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> that means from the time He became incarnate here on earth. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Now John says, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Ye have known Him that is from the beginning."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Sweet to trace His toiling footsteps as He walks the sands of earth, to see Him in His wonderful perfection down here, God manifest in the flesh, and to know Him now as the One who passed through death, who was raised by the glory of the Father, and has ascended to heaven, and sits exalted at God's right hand, our great High Priest, our advocate.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Does your soul long to know Him, do you seek to get better acquainted with Him through the years? How do you get to know a person? By living with him day by day. How do you get to know Christ? By living in intimate fellowship with Him throughout the days and years. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">H. A. Ironside </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Living for Jesus a life that is true, striving to please Him in all that I do.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">Yielding allegiance, glad-hearted and free, this is the pathway of blessing for me.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">Living for Jesus who died in my place, bearing on Calvary my sin and disgrace,</span><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">Such love constrains me to answer His call, follow His leading and give Him my all.</span></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">Living for Jesus through earth's little while, my dearest treasure, the light of His smile,<br />Seeking the lost ones He died to redeem, Bringing the weary to find rest in Him. </em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Thomas O. Chisholm</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9067</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! and the tongue is a fire. James 3:5-6 </span></strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">A sign post along a beautifully wooded highway in Ontario reads, </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><em>"Thoughtless people cause 80% of all forest fires."</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> As we ponder the staggering loss of trees, wildlife, property, and even human lives through the flick of a match, we ask ourselves how people can be so careless with a thing as dangerous as fire. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">And then we begin to grasp the implications of the biblical comparison between fire and the tongue. For if it is difficult to calculate the losses resulting from a forest fire, it is even more difficult to calculate the losses caused by an uncontrolled tongue. Reputations, friendships, self-esteem--the very testimony of God among men--have fallen charred and ruined before the onslaught of that little member which is </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"set on fire of hell." (v.6)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">And no man can tame tame the tongue. But God can! He does not simply neutralize it, but he transforms it into an instrument of His praise. Desiring such a transformation, the psalmist prayed, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"O Lord, open Thou my lips; and my mouth shall show forth thy praise." (Psalm 51:15)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. God also transforms the tongue into an instrument of blessing to others. <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Wherefore putting away lying, speak every man truth with his neighbour: for we are members one of another.... Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth, but that which is good to the use of edifying, that it may minister grace unto the hearers." (Ephesians 4:25,29)</strong></span>. A consecrated life includes a consecrated tongue as expressed so beautifully in the hymn by Francis Ridley Havergal </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">G. W. Steidl</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Take my lips and let them be filled with messages for thee.<br />Take my voice and let me sing always, only for my King. </span><span style="font-size: 14px;"> F. R. Havergal</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9068</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>God remembered Noah. Genesis 8:1<br />God remembered Abraham. Genesis 19:29<br />God remembered Rachel. Genesis 30:22</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">God remembers His people, whether on the grand earthly scale as with Noah, on a more local scale as with Abraham, or on a personal scale as with Rachel. He remembers that we are but dust and can by no means redeem ourselves. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Psalm 103:14)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Because of this, He demonstrated His ultimate remembrance of us at the cross of Christ.<br /><br />Now He says, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Their sins and iniquities will I remember no more" (Hebrews 10:17)</strong></span> When we come together, we should remember Him as He requested, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"This do in remembrance of Me." (1 Corinthians 11:25)</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Tom Steere</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>On that same night Lord Jesus,<br />When all around Thee joined<br />To cast its darkest shadow<br />Across Thy holy mind,<br />We hear Thy voice, blest Saviour,<br />"This do, remember Me:"<br />With joyful hearts responding,<br />We do remember Thee.</em></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">G. W. Frazer </span></strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9069</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Every one that is of the truth heareth My voice. </strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>John 18:37 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The confession of a man, that he has not heard the voice of Jesus, is a tacit confession that he has not got the truth. Now I say again, above all things get the truth. I do not care what things I lose, or what I have not got, if I have got the truth. Give me the truth--the truth about everything, about God, about myself, about righteousness, about the claims, and the heart of God. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"God is love!" (1John 4:8)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> How do you know that? you ask. He gave His Son. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"God is light!" (1John 1:5)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> What is the meaning of that? <u>Light reveals all that is unlike, or opposed to itself</u>; it touches the root of things, because light makes manifest. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"God is love."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The birth of Jesus, and the cross--the death of Jesus, prove the love of God</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. They are the demonstrations of that wonderful truth.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"God is light."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Will He pass over sin? Impossible! The Word of God is simple and plain upon this point. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"All have sinned;" (Romans 5:12)</strong></span> furthermore it says, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"The wages of sin is death." (Romans 6:23)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> People try to explain death away, but you cannot. <br /><br />You may gild your hearses, drape your coffins with costliest flowers, decorate your graveyards, and put up magnificent monuments on your tombs, but you cannot get rid of death; and death, we are told, entered into the world by sin <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Romans 5:12)</strong></span>--the sin of the first man--Adam. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Seekers for Light - W. T. P. Wolston, M.D. </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Romans 6:23).</span></strong><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9070</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>". . . which keepeth truth forever:" Psalm 146:6 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">God never forgets His Word. Long ago He promised a Redeemer; and although </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>He waited four thousand years,</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> the promise at last was most surely fulfilled. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>He promised Abraham a son</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; and although a quarter of a century of testing intervened, the promise at last came literally true. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He promised Abraham the land of promise</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> as an inheritance; and although four hundred years of trial intervened, at last the land was possessed. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He promised Jeremiah that after seventy years the captives should return from Babylon</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; and on the very hour, the action answered to the Word. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He promised Daniel that at a definite time Messiah should appear</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; and the most extraordinary evidence that we have to offer to the doubting Hebrew today that </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Jesus is His Messiah, is the literal fulfillment of the prophecy of Daniel</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Just as true are God's promises to the believer. They are all </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Yea and Amen"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(2 Corinthians 1:20)</strong></span> in Christ Jesus. He has guaranteed them. The promises of God form a great cheque-book. Every one is endorsed by the Mediator, and His Word and honour are pledged to their fulfillment. To make them yours</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>you must sign your name</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> upon the back of the promise and then </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">personally appropriate it</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Whosoever believeth on Him shall not be ashamed. Romans 10:11 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Springs in the Valley </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9071</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Ye have compassed this mountain long enough: turn you northward. Deuteronomy 2:3 </strong></span><br /><br />It would take too long to tell what this word has said to me. I will only say it spoke about a mountain of thought round which I have walked rather often. It is time to stop compassing that mountain. <br /><br />After settling that matter, I remembered one who for two whole years has been walking around a certain Mountain of Desire. When the desired thing was not given at the expected time, there was great disappointment. <br /><br />Perhaps the Lord is saying to that one and to others who are constantly praying about something personally desired, Leave the matter to Me: you have prayed enough about it. You have compassed that mountain long enough. <br /><br />I know another who always seems to be walking round a mountain of rubble. Self and the feeling of self, doubts, and questions, grumblings, little piled-up ingratitudes--what are these but rubble? Is it not very dull to keep on compassing so dull a mountain? <br /><br />Hear the heartening word of the Lord, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Ye have compassed this mountain long enough: turn you northward</strong></span>. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Rise ye up, take your journey," (v.24)</strong></span> "<span style="color: blue;"><strong>Fight the good fight of faith," (1 Timothy 6:12)</strong></span> begin to <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"<u>possess your possessions</u>." (Obadiah 17)</strong></span> </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Edges of His Ways - Amy Carmichael</span></span></strong></em></u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9072</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>HIS COMING AGAIN</em></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen Him go into heaven" Act 1:11 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Angels usually call Him Lord. Yet when He ascended in glory the angels say, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"This same Jesus."</strong></span> Now that our Lord has gone to heaven, clothed with all the majesty that rightly belongs to Him, our God does not want us to think that He is not still the same as when He walked the roads of Judea and Galilee, dispensing mercy and healing everywhere. Though shining with a glory above the brightness of the sun, <u style="font-size: 16px;">He is the very same Saviour as when He sat on Sychar's well</u></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">. </span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><u style="font-size: 16px;">John</u>, who leaned on Jesus' bosom, has not lost the Friend with a tender heart. <u>Thomas</u> who said, "<span style="color: blue;"><strong>My Lord, and my God,"</strong></span> could still look for Him who said, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Reach hither thy finger and behold My hands, and reach hither thy hand and thrust it into My side, and be not faithless but believing" (John 20:27)</strong></span>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Peter</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, who held Him by the feet, and who said, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life" (John 6:68)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, will see that same blessed Saviour unchanged in the glory. </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Lazarus</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, who sat at the table with Him, and <u>Zacchaeus</u> of the sycamore tree can look for the very same Jesus to come back again. And </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Mary</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, who sat at His feet, will enjoy such a place forever. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>The words of the angels would impress the hearts of each of the disciples with the precious fact that the One they had known would be eternally the same</u>. None of them had lost the Saviour who spoke peace to their hearts. Not one had lost the Friend who so tenderly cared for him. It would have been so natural for all the disciples to feel that their exalted Lord, so marvellously transported to heaven, would not be the same as when He fed them with loaves and and fishes in the wilderness. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">A Plant of Renown - Leonard Sheldrake</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9073</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">- I am not able. Numbers 11:14 </span><br /><span style="font-size: 16px;">- He is able. 2 Timothy 1:12 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Does the burden you bear seem too heavy for you? Moses declared, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I am not able to bear all this people alone, because it is too heavy for me." (Numbers 11:14)</strong></span> He wanted the Lord to just end his life and relieve him of his wretchedness. <br /><br />But rather than removing the burden, God added His grace. <u>How</u>? through:<br /><br />- His <u><strong>presence</strong></u>, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I will come down and talk with thee" Numbers11:17 </strong></span><br />- His <u><strong>power</strong></u>, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"The spirit rested upon them." (v.25)</strong></span>. <br />- His <u><strong>promise,</strong></u> "<span style="color: blue;"><u><strong>My word shall come to pass" (v.23).</strong></u> </span><br /><br />The Lord has given us the very same resource! Today, let's be sure to enjoy the Lord's <strong>presence</strong>, draw on His <strong>power</strong> and rest in His <strong>promises</strong>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Brian Cretney </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>He giveth more grace when the burdens grow greater, <br />He sendeth more strength when the labours increase.</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">A. J. Flint </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9074</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 28</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">A certain man...fell among thieves which...wounded him, and departed, leaving him half dead...But a certain Samaritan...came where he was...and had compassion on him, and went to him, and bound up his wounds, pouring in oil and wine, and set him on his own beast, and brought him to an inn, and took care of him. </span></strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">(Luke 10:30-35). </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Yesterday I was admitted to hospital for pacemaker surgery. Today, Lorne Perry sent the following message:<br /><br />"Speaking of hearts, some dozen years before the invention of the heart pacemaker, there was a Pacemaker fast freight service between Chicago and New York, with dedicated boxcars. I remember some of those cars gravitating to my neighbourhood, l</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">ong after this special service had been discontinued. <br /><br />Now you have the latest model. The results are usually quite positive. Just a silent partner until needed.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Wonderful that our hearts can just keep ticking for so long. Something like our marriages, where heartfelt love beats just as strongly. The Lord is in charge. I have thought of medical procedures this way: when the Lord was here He spoke about the Good Samaritan who went to where the needy traveller lay wounded, pouring in oil (for soothing) and wine (as an antiseptic).</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">This was the best medical practice of the day, and endorsed by the Lord. So now we can, with confidence of His encouragement, accept the best that today's medical practitioners offer". </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><em><strong>Lorne Perry</strong></em></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"My flesh and my heart faileth: but God is the strength of my heart, and my portion forever." Psalm 73:26 </strong></span><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9075</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>But when the fullness 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 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">What an exciting thought-- <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"When the fullness of the time was come, God sent forth His Son."</strong></span> For centuries, which grew darker, the faithful people of God waited for the promised Messiah who would reign, according to <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Isaiah 9:6</strong></span>, as <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Isaiah goes on to say that </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"of the increase of His government and peace there shall be no end...to order it, and to establish it with judgment and with justice from henceforth even forever. (v.7)</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But when would He come? When would be this <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"fullness of the time"?</strong></span> It is not too difficult for us today to identify with the desire and longing expressed in the prophesies 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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But there is one great difference between then and now. The </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"fullness of the time"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> has come! And all who believe <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"God sent His Son...that we might receive the adoption of sons"</strong></span> can join with the writer Phillips Brooks and sing that <em><strong>"The hopes and fears of all the years are met in Thee tonight." </strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The millennial time is yet to come when our Lord will reign physically upon the 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 <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." </strong></span></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Philippians 4:7)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. We can enjoy Him now if we recognize and own Him as the One sent to redeem us from our sins. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> L. J. Ondrejack </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9076</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 30</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>John 1:14 </strong></span><br /><br />Living in </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">obscurity at Nazareth, our Lord began His public ministry when about thirty years of age. That wonderful ministry only lasted a brief time. What a wonderful three-and-a-half years it was! His life was unique. No life was ever like His. <br /><br />He healed the sick. He raised the dead. He cast out devils. The common people heard Him gladly. They wondered at the gracious words that fell from His lips. He answered questions with a wisdom none could gainsay. He never apologized.<br /><br />He never withdrew a single thing that He did. He never uttered a word He had to withdraw. His life was without reproach. Nay, every step He took, every word He spoke, was music to heaven. A stream of miracles followed Him wherever He went. <br /><br />He undid the works of the Devil. And He went on to the cross of Calvary to die the sacrificial death, to be the mediator, the Saviour. The Christian religion is the only religion that presents a <em><strong>Saviour</strong></em> to mankind. All man-made religions appeal to the pride of man in that they put salvation before him as the climax of his own endeavours. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><em><strong>A. J. Pollock - Why I believe the Bible</strong></em></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9077</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 31</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in His law doth he meditate day and night. And <u>he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season</u>; his leaf also shall not whither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. Psalm 1:1-3.</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">One day, deep in the forest, we came upon a rock in midstream scooped by the backwash of immemorial waters to a hollow like the palm of a man's hand. Over this rock fell a crystal sheet of water, and through that moving clearness we saw <em>maidenhair fern</em> growing in lovely profusion in the hollow of the hand. <br /><br />It was not the place where we should have planted a fern; at any moment it might have been tossed, a piteous, crumpled mass, down the shouting river--this is how it seemed to us. But it was safe. The falls flowed over it, not on it. And it was blessed. <br /><br />When the fern on the bank shrivelled in heat, it was green, for it was watered all the year long by dust of spray. So does our wonderful God turn that which had seemed to be a perpetual threat to a perpetual benediction. Is there anything to fear with such a God? </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Rose From Briar - Amy Carmichael </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Be not dismayed what e'er betide, God will take care of you;<br />Beneath His wings of love abide, God will take care of you.<br /><br />Thro' days of toil when heart doth fail, God will take care of you;<br />When dangers fierce your path assail, God will take care of you. <br /><br />All you may need He will provide, God will take care of you;<br />Nothing you ask will be denied, God will take care of you. <br /><br />No matter what may be the test, God will take care of you; <br />Lean, weary one upon, His breast, God will take care of you.</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>C. D. Martin</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9078</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">COVERED by the MOST HIGH</span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">For I will be merciful to their </span></strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>unrighteousness, and their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more. Hebrews 8:12 </strong></span><br /><br />- The beach does not cover itself.<br />- It is covered by the sea.<br />- The shore does not change itself. <br />- It is shaped by the tides.<br />- The sea edge does not diminish its own size.<br />- The ocean does this as it sweeps in upon it.<br />- The alterations and rearrangements of the coast are the eternal work of the eternal tides.<br /><br />And in my life as one who lies open, exposed and receptive to the action of The Most High, it is He who will cover and conform me to His own pattern of ultimate perfection. <br /><br />- He does not relent.<br />- He does not rest. <br />- He neither slumbers nor sleeps. <br /><br />It is He who is at work upon my soul and within my spirit both to will and to do according to His own grand designs. <br /><br />The incoming of Christ by His sublime Sprit always changes the contours of our lives. Once we have been filled with all the fullness of His grace and goodness we are never the same again. His presence can inundate every crevice, can fill every corner of our convoluted lives. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Songs of My Soul - W. Phillip Keller </span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9079</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>THE BIBLE</strong></em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>For the Word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing </strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Hebrews 4:12 </strong></span><br /><br />My Book! my Book! my grand old Book! by inspiration given! There every page from age to age, reveals the path to heaven; My Lamp of Light! in nature's night, thy un-beclouded ray Has turned the gloom of death's cold tomb to everlasting day. <br /><br />My Chart! my Chart! my changeless Chart by thee I guide my bark, A simple child on ocean wild, o'er mountain billows dark; By thee I steer my safe career, with canvas all unfurled, And onward sail before the gale, to yonder blissful world.<br /><br />My Staff! my Staff! my trusty Staff! I'll grasp thee in my hand, As faint and weak on Pisgah's peak, I view the promised land; Not sadly told, as one of old, to see--but to explore, My hold I'll keep through Jordan's deep till safe on Canaan's shore.<br /><br />My Sword! my Sword! my two-edged sword! by thy unerring might, I deal my foe the deadly blow, in faith's unequal fight; Thy tempered blade, that lent me aid in every conflict past, Shall make me more than conqueror, through Him who loved, at last.<br /><br />My Book! my Chart! my Staff! my Sword! heaven speed thee on thy way From pole to pole, as ages roll, the harbinger of day, Till Christ "the Light," shall banish night from this terrestrial ball,<br />And earth shall see her Jubilee, and God be all in all. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">(Author unknown) Christian Treasury December 1990</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9080</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>INSISTING OR SUFFERING</strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>But and if ye suffer for righteousness' sake, happy are ye: and be not afraid ... neither be troubled." <u>1 Peter 3:14</u> "The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished." <u>2 Peter 2:9</u> </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It is recorded that 80% of the town of Meulaboh in Aceh (part of Indonesia) was destroyed by the Tsunami that struck on December 26, 2004. Meulaboh, also lost over 80% of its population--souls instantly swept into eternity in that awful disaster. Though the majority of Meulaboh's residents follow the practices of Islam, among them are 400 professing Christians. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The Christians had wanted to come together on December 25th for an all day 'Christian' celebration. Evidently, religious authorities in Meulaboh forbade such a gathering. The Christians were told that if they wanted to be together for a special celebration on December 25th, they should go outside the city of Meulaboh, climb a rugged mountain where, at the top, they could meet together for the day. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Rather than complaining or going to 'civil' authorities to demand their 'legal' rights, the 400 Christians, submitting to religious persecution, left the city on December 25th and climbed to the mountain top, there spending the day together. Because of the arduous climb, they stayed at the top that night. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">On Sunday morning, December 26, 2004, the terrible magnitude 9 earthquake struck, followed by Tsunami waves which are estimated to have taken well over a quarter million lives in that vast area. When the Tsunami struck Meulaboh, most of the city was destroyed and thousands were killed. The 400 Christians, however, who had submitted to religious harassment and persecution were still on the mountain top, safe from the destruction. Not one life was lost.<br /><br />Our hearts ache for all the suffering caused by this terrible disaster allowed by God. How solemn to think of the vast number of souls swept so suddenly into eternity. God is surely speaking plainly, warning this Christ rejecting world of a far worse, coming judgment. May dear souls take heed <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(see Acts 17:31, Romans 12:19).</strong></span> <br /><br />Let us soberly ask ourselves an obvious question. What would have happened to the 400 Christians had they <strong><em>demanded</em></strong> their <em><strong>'rights'</strong></em> and received permission from the civil authorities to remain in the town of Meulaboh for their December 25th gathering? </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Christian Shepherd - Doug Nicolet - March 2007</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9081</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">January 4</span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-77677314457794004072022-11-01T07:40:00.047-04:002022-12-20T07:13:04.530-05:00Gems from November 2022<p><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u><strong>I am not what I was</strong></u>,</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: but now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of </strong></span><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Christ</strong></span><span style="color: blue;"><strong>. Ephesians 2:12,13 </strong></span></span></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>I am not what I shall be</strong></u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is. 1 John 3:2</strong></span> . </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><u style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>I am not what I should be</strong></u>, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called. Ephesians 4:1</strong></span>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><u style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>I am not what I would be</strong></u>, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Philippians 2:12,13</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>But, by the grace of God, I am, what I am:</strong></span><span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong> </strong></span><span style="color: blue;"><em><strong>and His grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. 1 Corinthians 15:10</strong></em></span></u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em><br /></em></strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>When I trace the way He's led me in the many years gone by, Kept us thru the many trials, sent us succour from on high, </em></strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>Kept us in the sore temptations, when the tempter's voice was heard, In my soul I hear Him whisper; Child of God, hold fast my Word.<br /><br />When I look into the future, think of what I yet may meet, And of how the subtle tempter, spreads his snares to catch my feet. </em></strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>Then my eyes will turn to Jesus seated on the Father's throne, See Him there my intercessor pleading for His feeble one.</em></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;">(<em><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif">From the Archives of Tom Dear) </span></strong></em><br /><br /><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif">N.J. Hiebert - 9017</span></strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Now <u>the Spirit speaketh expressly that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith</u>, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving...1Timothy 4:1-3 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Behind this apostasy there is the direct influence of seducing spirits leading to the doctrines of demons in contrast to the truth. The apostate is not simply a neglecter of the truth, nor a rejector of the truth. He is one who, having made a profession of the faith, deliberately gives up the truth and takes up some other religious creed as being superior to Christianity. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The demons speak lies while professing to maintain the truth. The devil we know </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"is a liar." (John 8:44)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> and beguiled our first parents by speaking lies in hypocrisy. The fact that the truth has no power over their souls and that they give heed to doctrines of demons clearly proves that their consciences are so seared that they are no longer able to distinguish between good and evil. <br /><br />Apostasy, then, involves not only the giving up of the truth but also the adoption of error--the doctrine of demons. In place of the truth the apostate affects a religion of the flesh which professes to be of the very highest sanctity. They make the assumption of extraordinary purity by forbidding to marry, and great self-denial by abstinence from meats. <br /><br />In reality, having turned from the faith, they deny God as our Saviour, and in refusing marriage and meats, they deny God as the Creator. This means the loss of all true piety which fears God, and in result opens the door to licence and wantonness. These seducing spirits, pandering to the pride of the flesh, hold out before men the promise of the greatest sanctity in order to lead them into the deepest corruption. </span><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;"> <br />1 Timothy - An Expository Outline - Hamilton Smith</span></strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 9018</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>WHAT KIND OF FAITH?</em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">According to your faith be it unto you. Matthew 9:29 </span></strong><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Do I have the right kind of faith? </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"If you have any faith at all, you may be sure it is the right kind."</em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Do not waste time taking your faith apart and putting it back together. Do not expect saving faith to be some strange, different kind. You believe in Christ with faith like the faith you use when you trust someone or something else. <br /><br /><u>It is the object that makes the difference</u>. If you have any uncertainty about the matter, come to a definite decision. Trust Christ now. It may help you to put down the time and place. You must have confidence in the decision and consider it settled. But do not confuse faith in your faith with faith in the Saviour. <u>Faith has no value of its own, it has value only as it connects us with Him</u>. <br /><br />It is a trick of Satan to get us occupied with examining our faith instead of resting in the Faithful One. Go to Him just as you are as best you know. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out." (John 6:37)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Vance Havner</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">O what a Saviour that He died for me! from condemnation He hath made me free;<br />'He that believeth on the Son' saith He, 'Hath everlasting life'<br /><br />All my iniquities on Him were laid, all my indebtedness by Him was paid;<br />All who believe on Him, the Lord hath said, 'Have everlasting life.'<br /><br />Though poor and needy, I can trust my Lord, though weak and and sinful, I believe His word; O blessed message! every child of God, 'Hath everlasting life.'<br /><br />Though all unworthy, yet I will not doubt, for him that cometh, He will not cast out,<br />He that believeth, O! the good news shout, 'Hath everlasting life.' </span></strong></em><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. McGranahan</span></span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 9019</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: that as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 5:20,21.</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The blood of the Lamb cleanses the conscience from every speck and stain of sin, and sets it, in perfect freedom, in the presence of a holiness which cannot tolerate sin. <u>In the cross, all the claims of divine holiness were perfectly answered; so that the more I understand the latter, the more I appreciate the former</u>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The higher our estimate of holiness, the higher will be our estimate of the work of the cross. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Grace reigns, through righteousness, unto eternal life, by Jesus Christ our Lord."</strong></span> Hence the Psalmist calls on the saints to give thanks at the remembrance of God's holiness. This is a precious fruit of a perfect a redemption. <u>Before ever a sinner can give thanks at the remembrance of God's holiness, he must look at it by faith, from the resurrection side of the cross</u>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We see Adam as a type of Christ; but he is not merely to be viewed typically, but personally--not merely as absolutely shadowing forth <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"the second Man, the Lord from heaven,"</strong></span> but also as standing in the place of personal responsibility. In the midst of the fair scene of creation, the Lord God set up a testimony, and this testimony was also a test for the creature. <br /><br />It spoke of <strong><em>death</em></strong> in the midst of life. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"In the day that thou eatest thereof, thou shalt surely die."</strong></span> Strange, solemn sound! yet it was a needed sound. Adam's life was suspended upon his strict obedience. The link which connected him with the Lord God <em><strong>was</strong></em> obedience, based on implicit confidence in the One who had set him in his position of dignity--confidence in His truth--confidence in His love. He could obey only while he confided. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> C. H Macintosh</span></span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9020</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope in God: for I shall yet praise Him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God. Psalm 43:5. </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Conscious of the sense of tears in things mortal, a true gentleman does not make life hard for anyone. "So long as I have been here," said President Lincoln, after his second election, "I have not willingly planted a thorn in any man's bosom". Someone has defined a gentleman as "one who never puts his feelings before the rights of others; or his rights before their feelings". </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">God made both tears and laughter, and both for kind purposes. For, as laughter enables mirth and surprise to breathe freely, so tears enable sorrow to vent itself patiently. Tears hinder sorrow from becoming despair and madness; and laughter is one of the privileges of reason, being confined to the human species. These two things form part of the universal language of the human race--the language of looks. <br /><br />Since Babel, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Genesis 11:9)</strong></span> men in different parts of the world do not understand one another's speech; but this one inarticulate language is understood everywhere. The newly born babe seems to bring some understanding of it with him into the world. The wise man affirms that a merry heart maketh a cheerfulness countenance, and doeth good like a medicine <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Proverbs 15:13; 17:22)</strong></span>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">What is more refreshing than the merry laugh of a child? It is the bubbling up of the fountain of innocence and simplicity in the little one's heart. Did not our Master bid us to become as little children? <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Matthew 18:3)</strong></span>. Be assured then that you will make your own life happier and better, and through your happiness the lives of others happier and better, by using the faculty of humour to heal, to solve anger, to mitigate suffering, to cheer adversity, to save us from the wearing action of petty troubles, to arm us with the brightness of spirit which makes the best, and not the worst, of everything!</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Winsome Christianity - H. Durbanville </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9021</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds. Casting own imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. <br />2 Corinthians 10:4-5 </strong></span><br /><br />I do not fight with merely human weapons. No, the weapons with which I war are not weapons of mere flesh and blood, but, in the strength of the Lord, they are mighty enough to raze all strongholds of our foes. I can batter down bulwarks of human reason; I can scale every crag-fortress that towers up bidding defiance to the true knowledge of God. I can make each rebel purpose my prisoner of war and bow it into submission to Christ.<br /><br />He said not, thou shalt not be tempted; thou shalt not be travailed; <br />Thou shalt not be afflicted: But He said, "Thou shalt not be overcome!" </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Julian of Norwick, A.D. 1373. </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We are not here to be overcome, but we are to rise unvanquished after every knock-out blow, and laugh the laugh of faith--not fear.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Tempted on the sea of life; travailed sore, amid earth's strife;<br />Afflicted often, and sore dismayed; look up, faint heart, be not afraid ,<br />Thou shalt not be overcome! <br /><br />God's ways are far beyond our ken; His thoughts are not the thoughts of men;<br />And He knoweth what is best for you. Hope on, my friend, He will bear you through.<br />Thou shalt not be overcome! <br /><br />Though "the reason why" we cannot see, Our Father knows--'tis enough that we<br />But trust His love, when our eyes, are dim. Look up! Hold fast! though the fight is grim. We shall not be overcome!</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Mary E. Thompson </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9022</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And Nathan said to David, thou art the man. </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>2 Samuel 12:7 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Nathan speaks in a parable, and in his blindness David does not detect that he himself is the one this account is about. The prophet says, there were two men in a city, the one rich and the other poor. One had many flocks and herds; the other had only one little lamb which he cherished. A traveler came to the rich man who, in order to spare his own flock, took the poor man's lamb and butchered and cooked it for the man that had come to him. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Let us watch out for this sort of traveler, for we are all prone to be visited by him. Certainly when he appears it is better to close the door against him. This traveler is <strong style="font-size: 16px;"><em>lust</em></strong>, <em style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>a passing desire</strong></em>, and not one that we habitually entertain and feed. <br /><br />This traveler had entered King David's house, knowing he would find something to feed on there. Our hearts too ever contain that which it takes to succumb to Satan's temptations. David's anger was greatly kindled against the traveler: and he said to Nathan...the man that has done this thing is worthy of death.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">"<span style="color: blue;"><strong>And Nathan said said to David, Thou art the man.</strong></span>" How suddenly everything caved in! David had pronounced his own sentence; he deserves death! Yes, this blow reaches his heart, but it also goes down to the deepest recesses of his conscience, suddenly exposed, to the light.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">David had preferred his sin to God. What a terrible thing! Do our consciences have nothing to say to us? Every natural heart has lusts that attract it. By "lusts" we mean not only the defiling things of the world but also the <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life"</strong></span>--pleasures, vanity, and ambition. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">These things find easy access into a Christian's heart. How many days and years often pass without our shutting the door to them! Every time we open the door to this visitor we are despising the Lord Himself. This is the reason for God's judgment on His servants here. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 13px;">2 Samuel - H.L. Rossier</span></em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 9023</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. Joshua 1:5 <br /><br />I have been young, and now am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken. Psalm 37:25<br /> </strong></span><br /><em><strong>I am walking and talking with Jesus,<br />Each day as I journey along;<br />I'm NEVER alone, Hallelujah! <br />The joy of the Lord is my song.</strong></em><br /><br /><em><strong>ONE OF THESE DAYS </strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">One of these days it will all be over, sorrow and laughter, and loss and gain, <br />Meetings and partings of friend and lover, joy that was ever so edged with pain. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">One of these days will our hands be folded, one of these days will the work be done, </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Finished the pattern our lives have molded, ended our labour beneath the sun.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">One of these days will the heartache leave us, one of these days will the burden drop;</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Never again shall a hope deceive us, never again will our progress stop.<br />Freed from the blight of the vain endeavour, winged with the health of immortal life,<br />One of these days we shall quit forever all that is vexing in earthly strife.<br /><br />One of these days we shall know the reason, haply, of much that perplexes us now;</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">One of these days, in the Lord's good season, light of His peace shall adorn the brow.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Blessed, though out of tribulation lifted to dwell in His sun-bright smile,<br />Happy to share in the great salvation, well may we tarry a little while. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Christian Truth - December - 1966</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9024</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;">Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. Proverbs 4:23 </span><br /><br />The Bible speaks much about the heart. It tells us that our lives will be lived out in relation to what we have in our hearts. What a warning this is for us. <span style="font-size: 15px;"><span style="color: blue;">"Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also". Matthew 6:21</span></span></strong><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"> </span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We find many heart-revealing stories, both negative and positive, as we consider various people in the Bible. <br /><br /><u><strong>Eve's heart</strong></u> was on the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, even though it had been forbidden; <u><strong>Lot's wife's heart</strong></u> was tied to Sodom, which is seen by her turning around to look at the city as she fled its destruction; <u><strong>Achan's heart</strong></u>, was on the prohibitive spoils of Jericho. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">The tribes of <u><strong>Gad, Reuben</strong></u>, and the half <u><strong>tribe of Manasseh</strong></u>, seeing the lush pasture lands on the east side of the Jordan, requested these lands--for their inheritance rather than entering into the promised land--this revealed where their heart really resided. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">In contrast, <u><strong>Abram</strong></u> left his family and homeland when called of God to go out, because he looked for a heavenly city. <u><strong>Rebekah</strong></u> eagerly left behind her family in order to be with <u><strong>Isaac</strong></u> her husband. <u><strong>Peter, Andrew, James, and John</strong></u> left their businesses and their family ties to follow the Lord, as did <u><strong>Levi</strong></u>, who instantly left his money table when called. Their actions demonstrated where their hearts were. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><u>The Lord instructs us that He is to be more important to us than home, positions, family relationships, even more than our own lives</u>. We are to take up our cross daily and follow Him. The Lord showed us His heart, by doing His Father's will, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross" (Hebrews 12:2)</strong></span>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">May He win and fill our hearts in devotion and surrender to Him: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Search me, O God, and know my heart" (Psalm 139:23)</strong></span>. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em> Albert Blok. </em></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9025</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>I would that ye knew what great conflict I have for you . . . Colossians 2:1 </strong></span><br /><strong>With what do I strive in my prayers? </strong><br />(a) With all that says to me, what is the use of <em><strong>your</strong></em> praying? So many others, who know more of prayer than you do, are praying, what difference does it make whether <strong>you</strong> pray or not? Are you sure that your Lord is listening? Of course He is listening to the other prayers, but yours are of such small account; are you really sure He is <em><strong>"bending His ear"</strong></em> to <em><strong>you</strong></em>?<br /><br />(b) With all that suggests that we are asked to give too much time to prayer. There is so much to do. Why set aside so much time just to pray?<br /><br />(c) With all that discourages me personally--perhaps the remembrance of past sin, perhaps spiritual or physical tiredness; with anything and everything that keeps me back from what occupied Paul so often--<strong>vital prayer</strong>. <span style="color: blue;"><strong><br />"Lord, teach us to pray." Luke 11:1)</strong></span> <br /><br /><strong>What will help me most in this striving? </strong><br /> (a) The certain knowledge that our insignificance does not matter at all, for we do not come to the Father in our own name, but in the Name of His beloved Son. His ear is always open to that Name. Of this we can be certain.<br /><br />(b) The certain knowledge that the suggestion that prayer is waste of time is Satan's lie; <em><strong>he is much more afraid of our prayer than of our work</strong></em>. (This is proved by the immense difficulties we always find when we set ourselves to pray. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">They are much greater than those we meet when we set ourselves to work.)</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">(c) The application of God's sure promises to meet our need. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Isaiah 44:22, 40:29-31,45:19, Psalm 27:8) "Whereunto I also labour, striving according to His working, which worketh in me mightily." (Colossians 1:29) "Greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world." (1 John 4:4).</strong></span> <br />Let us count on the greatness of God. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 13px;">Edges of His ways - Amy Carmichael </span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9026</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>CHRIST ENTERED OUR SORROWS </strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Reproach hath broken my heart; and I am full of heaviness: I looked for some to take pity, but there was none; and for comforters, but I found none. </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Psalm 69:20 </strong></span> <br /><br />There is no comfort like the thought that Jesus has entered into all our sorrows. This is the very way God has met the need, and want, and wretchedness of our nature. Supposing that Adam had never fallen, we could not speak of God with the comfort that we now can, since He has come in sympathy to us, through the means of the incarnation of our blessed Lord. <br /><br />The Lord Jesus having become a man is the source of all comfort. The Lord has entered into all the depths of sorrow, so as to give us all the depths of comfort, in order that we may know that God knows the very secret of our case. <br /><br />He lets us see the feeling of Jesus in entering into it, and in the expression of His thoughts and feelings while in this place; so we come to see how He entered into all our sorrows. And this is the channel for all His love to flow into our souls. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"> J. N. Darby - The Lord is Near</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>We think of Thy devotion, Thy blest obedience rare;<br />Thy holy, deep emotion, Thy grief that none could share.</strong></span></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> G</span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">. A. Lucas </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9027</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">THE OLD TESTAMENT PREPARES FOR THE NEW TESTAMENT <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">O fools, and slow of heart to believe all that the prophets have spoken: ought not Christ to have suffered these things, and to enter into His glory? And beginning at Moses and all the prophets, He expounded unto them in all the scriptures the things concerning Himself." Luke 24:25-27</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Yes, we are all <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"slow of heart to believe."</strong></span> If God had wished, He could have made no preparation before sending His Son into the world to be the Redeemer. To see how God did prepare for the advent of His Son was a very great help to me when I was struggling to get a firm foundation for my soul. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">How patient God is! How considerate! Do you remember what the Lord said to the two doubting disciples as they took that never-to-be-forgotten journey to Emmaus. They were dubious of His divine mission. They did not know of His resurrection, and <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"their eyes were holden" (v.16)</strong></span> as He walked by their side. <br /><br />It is a very big thing indeed that we are called upon to believe in the Scriptures. <u>First</u>, that the record is inspired. <u>Second</u>, that Jesus is the Son of God; Who became man, dying on the cross to be the world's Redeemer, and that He is risen from the dead, and ascended to glory, and coming again to reign over the earth. <br /><br />I am profoundly thankful for the patience of God in teaching us these wonderful things. For about four thousand years He was patiently preparing the minds of men to receive the revelation of Himself in Christ, and the necessity and meaning of Christ's sacrificial death on the cross of Calvary. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Why I Believe the Bible</span></strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> - </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">A. J. Pollock </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9028</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Psalm 46:1 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Bible biographies are intensely human. There, you have set before you, not flawless saints, not sinners without a redeeming quality, but creatures of clay like ourselves. It tells of men who could scale the highest heights of devotional aspiration on the one hand but who, at other times, fell into the depths of sin.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">For this reason we shall find, as we examine them, warnings as well as example, admonition as well as instruction. <br /><br />- Thus we have the story of the duplicity of the upright man, </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Abraham</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">;<br />- Of the weakness of the mot powerful man, </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Samson</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">;<br />- Of the cowardice of the bravest man, </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Elijah</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">;<br />- Of the sensuality of the most devoted man, </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">David</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; <br />- Of the folly of the wisest man, </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Solomon;</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br />- Of the vindictiveness of the loving-hearted man, <u>John</u>; <br />- And of the instability of the rock-like man, <u>Peter</u>. <br /><br />Verily, Scripture is Nature's sternest painter, and its best.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Wonderful Word - George Henderson</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9029</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>The lines are fallen unto me in pleasant places; yea, I have a goodly heritage. Psalm 16:6 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It matters not where </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"the lines"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> fall; for, in the judgment of faith, they always fall </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"in pleasant places,"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> just because God casts them there. The man of faith can easily afford to allow the man of sight to take his choice. He can say, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"If thou wilt take the left hand, then I will go to the right; or if thou depart to the right hand, then I will go to the left."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Genesis 13:9)</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">What beautiful disinterestedness and moral elevation we have here! and yet what security! It is certain that, let nature range where it will, let it take its most comprehensive grasp--its boldest and highest flight, there is never the slightest danger of its laying its hand upon faith's treasure. It will seek its portion in quite an opposite direction. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Faith lays up its treasure in a place which nature would never dream of examining; and as to its approaching thereto, </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>it could not if it would, and it would not if it could.</strong></span></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Hence, therefore, faith is perfectly safe, as well as beautifully disinterested, in allowing nature to take its choice. <br /><br />What, then, did Lot choose, when he got his choice? </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He chose Sodom,--the very place that was about to be judged. But how was this? Why select such a spot? Because he looked at the outward appearance, and not at the intrinsic character and future destiny. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Genesis 13:5-18)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Genesis - C. H. Mackintosh </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9030</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Hearken; Behold, there went out a sower to sow. </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Mark 4:3 <br />The sower soweth the Word. Mark 4:14 </strong></span><br /><br />A beautiful picture of evangelism is presented to us in this </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">description of a sower sowing seed. Undoubtedly he experienced long days of patient toil, taking a handful of seed and scattering it in every direction. Often it was a lonely task as he endured the heat or cold of the day. <br /><br />Brother, sister, keep scattering the Word whether verbally or in literature, telling others about the Saviour. Plant a seed in some poor sinner today by a kindly word or deed. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 14px;">Jim Paul</span></em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif">We cannot all be preachers and sway with voice and pen,<br />As strong winds sway the forest, the minds and hearts of men, <br />But we can be evangels to souls within our reach,<br />There's always love's own gospel for loving hearts to preach.</span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~<wbr></wbr>~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Sowing in the morning, sowing seeds of kindness,<br />Sowing in the noontide and the dewy eves:<br />Waiting for the harvest, and the time of reaping,<br />We shall come rejoicing, bringing in the sheaves. <br /><br />Sowing in the sunshine, sowing in the shadows, <br />Fearing neither clouds not winter's chilling breeze; <br />By and by the harvest, and the labour ended,<br />We shall come rejoicing, bringing in the sheaves. <br /><br />Going forth with weeping, sowing for the Master,<br />Though the loss sustained our spirit often grieves;<br />When our weeping's over, He will bid us welcome, <br />We shall come rejoicing, bringing in the sheaves.</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Knowles Shaw (1874)</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 9031</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">...Isaac his father...said, The voice is Jacob's voice, but the hands are the hands of Esau. And he discerned him not... (Genesis 27:22-23). For if the trumpet give an uncertain sound, who shall prepare himself to the battle? (1 Corinthians 14:8) </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The story is told of an explorer who became lost in the jungle. Using all his skill and knowledge, the man sought desperately, but unsuccessfully, to find his way to safety. Hours stretched into days, the explorer's supplies of food and water ran out and he realized his strength was ebbing fast. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Suddenly, in the distance, he heard a welcome sound!--the sound of a bell tolling. Thinking that civilization with a church must be nearby, he began following the sound with renewed hope. But it was not long before the lost and helpless explorer realized that he was not drawing any closer to the source of the bell. Finally, totally exhausted, the explorer fell to the ground to rise no more. The uncanny mimicked noise of the South American bellbird's call (which sounds like the reverberating "toll," of a bell) had, instead of leading the weary one to safety, lured him to his death.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Satan, the enemy of our souls, is a skilled noise-maker and well able to disguise the awful reality of sin by mimicking wickedness and death with false, harmless sounding noises. As an </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>angel of light</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> he cloaks his evil ways with an innumerable variety of sounds, all calculated to draw the attention of each helpless soul away from the path to eternal safety. Using what often seems innocent and alluring--music, laughter, emotional appeals, apparent sincerity, etc.--he leads weary, undiscerning souls to eventual destruction. <br /><br />In Shadrach, Mesach and Abednego's day, forced worship of the golden idol was initiated by the sounds of different musical instruments and <strong><em>all kinds of music</em></strong> </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Daniel 3:1-15)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. How deceitfully the enemy cloaks sin and death under such appealing, sweet sounds! What is the antidote for such deceptively deadly poison? <br /><br /><br /><strong><em>Familiarity with the voice of the Good Shepherd</em></strong>! Dear souls may not always be able to understand or discern the exact kind of evil that they are hearing but if the blessed Saviour's voice is a loved and <em><strong>familiar sound</strong></em> to them, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers" (John 10:5)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Christian Shepherd - April 2006</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br /> N.J.Hiebert - 9032</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God. Romans10:17 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Faith is the substance of things hoped for the evidence of things not seen. Hebrews 11:1<br /> <br />For me to live is Christ, and to die is gain...having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is <em><u>far better</u></em>. Philippians 1:21,23 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Nature dealt the final blow, faith assures it is not so. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Nature never sees thee more, faith but sees thee gone before.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Nature tells a dismal story; faith has visions full of glory. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Nature views the change with sadness; faith contemplates it with gladness; </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Nature sorrows faith gives meekness; "strength is perfected in weakness." </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Nature weeps, and dreads the rod, faith looks up and blesses God.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Sense looks downward, faith above; that sees harshness, this sees love </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Oh, let faith victorious be, let it reign triumphantly. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;">~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</span><wbr style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"></wbr><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;">~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~</span><wbr style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"></wbr><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;">~~~~~~~~~</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Faith is a very simple thing, though little understood;</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It frees the soul from death's dread sting, by resting on the blood.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br />It looks not on the things around, nor on the things within;</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It takes its flight to scenes above, beyond the sphere of sin.<br /><br />It sees upon the throne of God a victim that was slain;<br />It rests its all on His shed blood, and says , <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I'm born again."</strong></span><br /><br />Faith is not what we see or feel; it is a simple trust <br />In what the God of love has said of Jesus as the Just. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Asa Hull</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9033</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Then one of the twelve, called Judas Iscariot, went unto the chief priests, and said unto them, what will ye give me, and I will deliver HIM unto you? And they covenanted with him for thirty pieces of silver. Matthew 26:14,15. </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It was the utter lack of appreciation of the worth and work of the Shepherd that caused the loss to Israel of all that was lovely toward God, and of all that was so good and pleasant among His people. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"So they weighed for My price thirty pieces of silver!" (Zechariah 11:12)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Thirty pieces of silver, for the Lord of life they gave;</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Thirty pieces of silver--only the price of a slave! </strong></em> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">(William Blane)</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Yes, thirty pieces of silver was the stipulated compensation for a slave <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Exodus 21:32)</strong></span>. This was the very least value that could be set on the head of a human being. This act of callous blindness, putting the lowest price on the priceless love and service of the Best of heaven, was the calm and unnoticed act that blighted every beauty and every blessing of the favoured people. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">A choice that is made with little thought or exercise often manifests where the heart is. Judas thought so little of the thirty pieces of silver that he could actually kiss his Master with them already in his bag. It was these thirty pieces of silver marked Judas out as a despiser of God's Christ, and a traitor. Accept the price of a slave for the Shepherd of the Sheep? Judas did it. The merest speck of true love would have scorned such a valuation. <br /><br />It was the price of His worth in the minds of the priests as well. The stirring of indignation is readily seen in the holy sarcasm of the words, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"A goodly price that I was prized at of them." (Zechariah 11:13)</strong></span> The loathing of the money is seen in casting the pieces to the potter in the house of the Lord. Let the potter put the silver of the wretched bargain with the shards of his broken and worthless vessels. This was done with the price of blood, the price of His blood. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Mathew 27:3-10 </strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><em><strong>A Plant of Renown - Leonard Sheldrake </strong></em></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9034</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>THE BLESSEDNESS OF OLD AGE - ITS LIMITATIONS</em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">And even to your old age I am He; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you: I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you. Isaiah 46:4</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> .</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">One may no longer be equal to the heavy physical tasks once undertaken so easily. The eye may have become dim, the ear dull, the breathe short, the heart faint, the hand unsteady, and the golden bowl of life seem nigh to breaking.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But what distresses even more than these, perhaps, is the failing of the memory: one cannot remember even the promises or the precepts which, in one's younger days, one could repeat so easily. A Christian once complained to an aged man, that he was much discouraged in reading the Scriptures, because he could not fasten on his memory what he had read. <br /><br />The older friend bade him take a pitcher and fill it with water. This being done, he bade him empty it out and wipe the pitcher. The other wondered to what this tended, "Now," said the older man, "though no water remains in it, yet the pitcher is cleaner than it was before; and though your memory retains not what you read, yet your heart is the cleaner for God's Word having passed through it."<br /><br />There is, however, a much more comforting reflection than even that one and it is this, namely, that <u>if we forget the promises, God never forgets them</u>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Heaven's Cure for Earth's Care. </span></strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9035</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>COME AND SEE</strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Come and see. John 1:39 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The Lord Jesus said it first. He said it to the two disciples of John who heard that He was the Lamb of God. They knew very little about Him, but they followed Him. Perhaps they would not even have ventured to speak, but <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Jesus turned, and saw them following," (v.38)</strong></span> and spoke to them. Then they asked Him where He dwelt, and He said, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Come and see!"</strong></span> <br /><br />Philip said it next. He had found Christ himself, and at once he told his friend Nathaniel about it, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Come and see,!"</strong></span> Is it not said still? Oh, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"come and see!"</strong></span> Look into the Saviour's glorious and loving face, and see what a lovely and precious Saviour He is! <u>Come</u> and see how ready He is to receive you, and to bless you. <u>Come</u> and see what He has done for you; see how He loved you and and gave Himself for you; how He lived and suffered and bled and died for you! <br /><br /><u>Come</u> and see what gifts He has for you--forgiveness and peace, His Spirit and His grace, His joy and His love! <u>Come</u> and see where He dwelleth--see that He is ready to <u>come</u> in and dwell with you, to make your heart His own dwelling-place. Oh, if I could but persuade you to <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"come and see!"</strong></span> There is no other sight so glorious and beautiful. <br /><br />Will you not <u>come</u>? When you have <u>come</u>, when you can say, like Philip, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"We have found Him!"</strong></span> and like Paul, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"We see Jesus,"</strong></span> will you not say to someone else, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Come and see!"</strong></span> You will wish every one else to <strong><u>come</u></strong> to Him, and you have His word to bid you try to bring them: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Let him that heareth say, <u>come</u>!" (Revelation 22:17) </strong></span></span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><strong>Opened Treasures</strong></span></span></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong> - </strong></span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Francis Ridley Havergal </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9036</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And Jesus said unto the centurion, go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Matthew 8:13</strong></span><br /><br />Christ is our life and according to the faith we have we are to trust Him to sustain even out bodies and rest assured that He will keep us here as long as He wants us in this world. <strong>"<u>We are immortal until our work is done</u></strong>." (</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><u>David Livingstone</u></strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">)<br /><br /><u>Guidance</u>. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths." (Proverbs 3:6)</strong></span> It is easier to preach about guidance than to be sure of it in some cases. Sometimes we expect the Lord to make it plainer than He does. By the Word, prayer, meditation, circumstances, sometimes the advice of true Christian friends, by steps and by stops, "<strong><u>God leads His dear children along.</u></strong>" <br /><br />Calls, results, funds. I have found it best to let the Lord open doors without any effort on my part. Sometimes I have become too anxious when there was no visible response to my preaching and unduly elated when there was. "<span style="color: blue;"><strong>The wind bloweth where it listeth</strong></span> </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">[wishes]</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">" </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>John 3:8</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. It is not possible to determine fully which meeting is the greater defeat or victory. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Our conversation </strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><strong>[citizenship]</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ."</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Philippians 3:20)</strong></span> </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Even so, come, Lord Jesus" (Revelation 22:20)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. I am a citizen of heaven so-journeying on earth, not a citizen of earth journeying to heaven. God help me never to lose my pilgrim character. It is so easy to drive down our tent-pegs in this world. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">That I May Know Him - Vance Havner </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9037</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">And they (Joseph's brethren) sent a messenger unto Joseph, saying...Forgive, I pray thee now, the trespass of thy brethren, and their sin; for they did unto thee evil: and now, we pray thee, forgive the trespass of the servants of the God of thy father. And Joseph wept when they spake unto him. Genesis 50:16-17 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Jacob was dead and now his brethren were trying to convince Joseph to forgive them. But he had long since forgiven them for the evil they had done to him. For seventeen years they had been living under the care of Joseph without realizing that he had completely forgiven them!</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Do we realize that our forgiveness was a once and for all act and we are safe and under Christ's love and care? Is the Lord grieved with our lack of understanding of our security in Him? </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Ray Jones</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong>The work which</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <u><strong><em>His</em></strong></u> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong>goodness began, the arm of</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <u><em><strong>His</strong></em></u> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">strength will complete; His promise is Yea and Amen, and never was forfeited yet; Things future, nor things that are now, nor all things below nor above, Can make Him His purpose forgo, or sever our souls from His love. <br /><br />Our names from the palms of His hands, eternity will not erase: Impressed on His heart they remain, in marks of indelible grace: And we to the end shall endure, as sure as the earnest is given; More happy, but not more secure, the spirits departed to heaven. </span><br /><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">August M. Toplady </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9038</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>JESUS LOVES EVEN ME</em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">As the Father hath loved Me, so have I loved you: continue ye in My love. John 15:9</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The wonder of Jesus' deep love for each of us has been expressed in this text in beautiful but childlike language by the noted musician of early gospel music, </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Philip P. Bliss</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. After attending a service where the hymn <strong><em>"O How I Love Jesus"</em></strong> was sung repeatedly, Bliss thought, "Have I not been singing enough about my poor love for Jesus and shall I not rather sing of His great love for me?" </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Soon he completed both the words and music of one of the all-time favourite children's hymns, which is widely sung and enjoyed by adults as well. There has been no writer of verse since his time who has shown such a grasp of the fundamental truths of the gospel, or such a gift for putting them into a poetic and singable form. <br /><br />The third stanza of this simple but very appealing hymn is especially meaningful when we realize that Philip Bliss died suddenly at the age of thirty-eight in a tragic train accident. His many stirring hymns, however, have lived on. They all focus clearly on important biblical truths, but none is more moving than the reminder in this text that Jesus loves even me. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>I am so glad that our Father in heaven tells of His love in the book He has given; wonderful things in the Bible I see--this is the dearest, that Jesus loves me.<br />Tho I forget Him and wander away, still He doth love me wherever I stray; back to His dear loving arms would I flee, when I remember that Jesus loves me. <br />O if there's only one song I can sing when in His beauty I see the great King, this shall my song in eternity be: "O what a wonder that Jesus loves me!" </em><br />CHORUS</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">: <em><strong>I am so glad that Jesus loves me, Jesus loves me, Jesus loves me; I am so glad that Jesus loves; Jesus loves even me.</strong></em> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Philip P. Bliss</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9039</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>When my soul fainted within me I remembered the Lord: and my prayer came in unto Thee, into Thine holy temple. Jonah 2:7 </strong></span><br /><br />In the days of his prosperity, his pride and his self will, Jonah had forgotten Jehovah, or perhaps we should say, had disregarded Jehovah, but <strong><em>now</em></strong>, when the billows and the breakers were going over him, the waters encompassing him, even to the soul; <em><strong>now</strong></em> when he was down at the bottoms of the mountains, when he was utterly without hope, he said, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"the bars of the earth closed about</strong> <em><strong>me <u>forever</u></strong></em>." <strong>(Jonah 2:6)</strong></span> <br /><br /><em><strong>Now</strong></em>, his soul fainted. He had no resource, no hope in man, there was not one to whom he could turn. <em><strong>Now,</strong></em> he remembered Jehovah, <em><strong>and he prayed</strong></em>. There was no other hope, no other way, nothing else he could do, <em><strong>so he prayed</strong></em>. Not only did he pray, but faith rose from that strange "<em>prayer room</em>," and by faith he could see right into <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Thy holy temple," (Jonah 2:7)</strong></span> towards which he had looked, and saw that his prayer had entered in, right inside the veil, to the very presence of God.<br /><br />Perhaps we all have tasted a bit of this experience of Jonah. Which of us has not tried to manage our own affairs, and when everything went wrong, and we were at our wits' end; when our soul fainted within us, and we had no way, no hope, no plan, then we <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"remembered Jehovah." (Jonah 2:7)</strong></span>. Then we prayed. <br /><br />We did not deserve to get a hearing for our prayer when it was forced from us in such extremities, but, thank God, we have found, like Jonah, that <em><strong>even then</strong></em>, it <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"came in unto Thee, into Thy holy temple." (Jonah 2:7)</strong></span>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Lessons From Jonah the Prophet - G. C. Willis</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9040</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">They found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre. Luke 24:2</span><br /><span style="font-size: 16px;">Did not our hearts burn within us...while He opened to us the Scriptures? (v.32)</span><br /><span style="font-size: 16px;">And their eyes were opened and they knew Him. (v.31)</span><br /><span style="font-size: 16px;">Then opened He their understanding. (v.45) </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">This resurrection chapter is full of <u>open things</u>: an <u>open tomb</u>; <u>open Scriptures</u>; <u>open eyes</u>; and <u>open understanding</u>. Each carries a responsibility.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">An empty tomb calls us to a relationship with a living Saviour. Knowledge of Him is found in the opened Scriptures and with opened understanding, our hearts should burn to love Him more fully and serve Him more faithfully. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">S. McEachern</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">The Lord is risen indeed, and all His work performed!<br />The captive Surety now is freed, and death, our foe, disarmed.<br /><br />The Lord is risen indeed: He lives--to die no more;<br />He lives--His people's cause to plead, whose curse and shame He bore.<br /><br />The Lord is risen indeed: and death has lost its prey:<br />And with Him all the ransomed seed shall reign in endless day</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">T. Kelly</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J.Hiebert - 9041</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. Galatians 1:8 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">What a most awfully solemn word! Instead of a blessing, a twice-repeated curse! How these words should make every one of us stop and think! <br /><br />If I have the happy privilege, and the solemn responsibility of announcing God's good news, how earnestly I should seek to see to it, that what I announce is in very truth God's good news, and not my own thoughts or ideas; else it may be that solemn word may come to me: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Cursed be he!"</strong></span> <br /><br />Sad to say, there are tens of thousands today who preach the law, without the least idea that they are putting themselves under this terrible curse. But so it is. It would seem as though the one who was specially doing this wicked work in Galatia, may have been a man of distinction. <br /><br />The words that Paul uses, "Even if <em><strong>we</strong></em>, or an angel out of heaven, should announce good news to you beside what we preached, cursed be he!" would seem to indicate he was a great man. Also in <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Galatians 5:10, "whoever he be,"</strong></span> would seem to give us the same meaning.<br /><br />Today there are men who hold high positions in the churches of men, who may have many degrees after their names, but they are cursed of God because they preach a different good news, which is not another. It is Christianity with something added. That is exactly what these false teachers brought to the Galatians.<br /><br />If anyone tells me I must keep the law for salvation, this is not good news. It is just the opposite. It is very, very bad news, for I never can keep the law, and I must perish. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Galatians - G. C. Willis</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9042</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee: because he trusteth in Thee. </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Isaiah 26:3</strong></span><br /><br /><em><u>"Quiet tension is not trust.</u> <u>It is simply compressed anxiety</u>"</em>. Too often we think we are trusting when we are merely controlling our panic. True faith gives not only a calm exterior but a quiet heart. <br /><br />Miss Amy Carmichael gives a beautiful illustration from nature of this kind of trust. The sun bird, one of the tiniest of birds, a native of India, builds a pendant nest, hanging it by four frail threads, generally from a spray of the vallaris plant. It is a delicate work of art, with its roof and tiny porch, which a splash of water or a child's touch might destroy. <br /><br />Miss Carmichael tells how she saw a little sun bird building such a nest just before the monsoon season, and felt that for once bird wisdom had failed; for how could such a delicate structure, in such an exposed situation, weather the winds and the torrential rains? The monsoon broke, and from her window she watched the nest swaying with the branches in the wind. <br /><br />Then she perceived that the nest had been so placed that the leaves immediately above it formed little gutters which carried the water away from the nest. There sat the sun bird, with its tiny head resting on her little porch, and whenever a drop of water fell on her long, curved beak, she sucked it in as if it were nectar. The storm raged furiously, but the sun bird sat, quiet and unafraid, hatching her tiny eggs. <br /><br />We have a more substantial rest for head and heart than the sun bird's porch! We have the promises of God. They are enough, however terrifying the storm. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. C. Macaulay</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 9043</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the Lord. And Nathan said unto David, the Lord also hath put away thy sin; thou shalt not die. 2 Samuel 12:13 </strong></span><br /><br />It might well seem to us at this point that David was indeed beyond redemption. Certainly for the casual reader with little if any spiritual understanding this episode in the king's life removes him from any further possibility of human respect. <br /><br />The inescapable verdict would seem to be one of absolute abhorrence--especially for one who claimed to honour the Most High. Certainly David's duplicity has brought endless reproach upon the man, and upon all of God's people, across the ensuing centuries. <br /><br />Only the grace of God and the unfailing faithfulness of His Spirit, still at work in David's life, could ever lift him again from the deep and terrible pit of evil in which he was mired. <br /><br />Only, only, only the redemptive mercy, the incredible pity, the eternal generosity of a compassionate, caring, loving, merciful God could possibly forgive his offences. <br /><br />- This David saw!<br />- This he now knew!<br />- This he understood as his only hope! <br /><br />He was utterly silent, subdued, smitten before Nathan. And it was at this point that God worked a miracle of redemption in his life. He can do the same for us at the low points in our lives.<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; thought they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. Isaiah 1:18 Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow." Psalm 51:7 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Songs of My Soul - W. Phillip Keller</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9044</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 28</span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>I go away, and come again unto you. John 14:28</strong></span><br /><br />These words refer to the parting, before our Lord Jesus would come again and receive His </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">disciples unto Himself, never to be parted from Him again. <br /><br />But can one thought, however rich, ever exhaust the meaning in His words? These special words, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>I go away and come again unto you</strong></span>, cast light on <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Isaiah 48:21: "They thirsted not when He led them through the deserts."</strong></span> <br /><br />He who never really leaves us does at times appear to do so. We all know what desert times are, what it means <em><strong>not</strong></em> to see Him clearly, <em><strong>not</strong></em> to hear His voice, <em><strong>not</strong></em> to feel His presence. <br /><br />But <strong><em>"there is not enough darkness in all the world to put out the light of one little glowworm."</em></strong> This word of cheer is far more unquenchable than any light of earth. Does it seem as though He has gone away? <br /><br />He has not, but does it sometimes seem so? Then let His word do its loving will in our hearts. <em><strong>"I will not stay away. I go away, and come again unto you."</strong></em> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Whispers of His ways - Amy Carmichael </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9045</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Then was </strong></span><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Nebuchadnezzar full of fury...and he commanded the most mighty men that were in His army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, and to cast them into the burning fiery furnace. </strong></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Daniel 3:19-20</strong></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>.</strong></span> <br /><br />Even the men stoking the furnace were killed by its heat...and wonder of wonders, Nebuchadnezzar saw them walking around with their bonds loosed, and and One <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"like the Son of God" (v.25) </strong></span>was with them in the midst of the flames. This had a salutary effect on Nebuchadnezzar and his attitude completely changed. He called the three martyrs <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"ye servants of the most high God" (v.26)</strong></span> and gave complete freedom of worship to Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego.<br /><br />He also threatened his own people with death and destruction if they dared speak a word against these men or against their God. He then makes the amazing statement, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"There is no other God that can deliver after this sort" (v.29)</strong></span> Many of God's dear people are called upon to pass through the fire from time to time. It is in the fire that they come to know the intimate presence of the Lord in a way they have never known before, </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">and they find that the fire is not as harmful as they had supposed</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">Like the men in the furnace, it removes much that has been a bondage. <u>The Lord will never leave us in the fire alone</u>. Think of the precious promise that Jehovah brings to us His redeemed people <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Fear not: for I have redeemed thee, I have called thee by thy name; thou art mine. When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee: when thou walkest through the fire, thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee" (Isaiah 43:1-2). </strong></span></span><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Peter takes up this theme writing, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ" </strong></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>(1 Peter1:7)</strong></span>.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> Could it be that some dear reader is passing through a fiery trial of some kind or another? Remember that He has said, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee" </strong></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Hebrews 13:5)</strong></span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> <u>In the final analysis, the fire will only consume the dross</u>, bringing forth the fine gold to the glory of our God.</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Daniel - William Burnett</span></span></strong></em><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9046</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 30</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Whereunto I am appointed a preacher, and an apostle, and a teacher of the Gentiles. 2 Timothy 1:11 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The faithful in this day may indeed be a small and insignificant minority, even as the Apostle Paul and the few who were associated with him at the close of his life; nevertheless, in <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"that day"</strong></span> it will be found to be far better to have been with the despised few than with the unfaithful mass. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The vanity of the flesh likes to be popular and self important and make itself prominent before the world and the saints, but in view of that day it is better to take a lowly place in self-effacement rather than a pubic place in self-advertisement, for then it will be found that many that are first shall be last; and the last first. <br /><br />We may indeed suffer for our own failure, and this should humble us. Nevertheless, with the example of the Apostle before us, we do well to remember that had we walked in absolute faithfulness we should have suffered still more, for it ever remains true that <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. (3:12)</strong></span>. <br /><br />If we are faithful to the light that God has given us, and seek to walk in separation from all that is a denial of the truth, we shall find, in our little measure that we shall have to face persecution and opposition, and, in its most painful forms, from our fellow-Christians. <br /><br />Well for us, when the trial comes, if we can, like Paul, commit all to the Lord, and wait for His vindication in that day. Too often we are fretful and impatient in the presence of wrongs and seek to have them righted in <span style="color: blue;"><strong>this day</strong></span> instead of waiting for <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"that day"</strong></span>. If, in the faith of our souls, the glory of that day shines before us, instead of being tempted to rebel at the insults and wrongs that may be allowed, we shall <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"rejoice and be exceeding glad"</strong></span> for, says the Lord, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"great is your reward in heaven" (Matthew 5:12)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Hamilton Smith </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9047</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>But this cometh to pass, that the word might be fulfilled that is written in their law, they hated me without a cause. John 15:25<br /><br />We love Him, because He first loved us. 1 John 4:19 </strong></span><br /><br />He who was hated without a cause loved without a cause. In fact His love without cause both preceded and will outlast the hatred expressed toward Him. The Lord never states the reason for His love, but He always gives the reason for His judgment. <br /><br />It is the wonder of all wonders that He loved us when we were unlovable and so much so that He gave His Son to die for us. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Gary W. Seale</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">When I know that for me He the anguish bore,<br />That from sin He might set me free,<br />Oh, I know that I'll love Him forever more,<br />When I think of His love for me.</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Louis Paul Lehman, Jr. </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">The love of God is greater far than tongue or pen can ever tell;<br />It goes beyond the highest star, and reaches to the lowest hell.<br />Though guilty we, yet on the tree God gave His Son to win;<br />All who believe are reconciled, and pardoned from their sin.<br /><br />Could we with ink the ocean fill, and were the skies of parchment made;<br />Were every stalk on earth a quill, and every man a scribe by trade;<br />To write the love of God above would drain the ocean dry;<br />Nor could the scroll contain the whole, though stretched from sky to sky.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 13px;">Fredrick Martin Lehman </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9048</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Thy Word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee. Psalm 119:11 </strong></span><br /><br />When we speak on that verse to the little people, we tell them that there you have the right word- Thy Word; <u>in the right place</u>--<u>my</u> <u>heart</u>; <u>for the right purpose</u>--<u>that I might not sin against God</u>. We older folk are the children of eternity; we, too, need to hide our Father's Word in our hearts; and so I pass on a few suggestions that may enable rightly to divide the Word of truth.<br /><br />- When you are in sorrow, read John 14.<br />- When men fail you, read Psalm 27.<br />- When you have sinned, read Psalm 51.<br />- When you are worried, read Matthew 6. <br />- When God seems far away, read Psalm 139.<br />- When you are discouraged, read Isaiah 40.<br />- If you want to be fruitful, read John 15.<br />- To recount your blessings, read Psalm 103.<br />- When your faith is weak, read Hebrews 11.<br />- When you want courage, read Joshua 1.<br />- When feeling down and out, read Romans 8.<br />- When loved ones pass on, read Psalm 90.<br />- When inclined to be critical, read 1 Corinthians 13.<br />- Before undertaking a journey, read Psalm 121. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Henry Durbanville </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9049</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>BEING WHERE GOD WANTS US TO BE</em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">And the Lord spake unto the fish, and it vomited out Jonah upon the dry land. Jonah 2:10 </span></strong><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Initially, Jonah refused to do what he knew to be the will of God. Has that not been true of all of us? But God brought Jonah to his senses and delivered him! Jonah came up from the depths of the sea humbled and chastened, but scarcely broken, for the concluding chapter of his book shows that he still had much to learn. But he had experienced the power of God to lay low those who rise up against His will, and he was also assured that, come what may, God will never cast off His own. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We need not suppose that the great fish remained stationary during Jonah's imprisonment; the eye of the Creator was upon it, and it was guided to drop the prophet just where the Lord wanted him. The obedience of the humblest creatures, as recorded in Scripture, is deeply instructive. The Lord Jesus, when on earth, wanted a fish which possessed a shekel, and to have that particular fish--and no other--caught on Peter's hook <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Matthew 17:27).</strong></span> <br /><br />The colt upon which no man ever sat, an untamed novice for work, obediently carried the Lord through the streets of Jerusalem <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Matthew 21:7)</strong></span>. In like manner, this sea monster was at the appointed place when Jonah was cast out of the ship; it took care of him for the divinely appointed period, and then released him in God's time, and in the place where God required him. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> Alas that man, the most gifted of all earthy creatures, should be the arch rebel of this planet!</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>We are of the most use to God when we are where He wants us to be</u>. God wanted Jonah to be in Nineveh. Where does He want you? Even when we are in the right place at the right time, we need the guidance of the Spirit constantly as to what we should say or do. We may know this truth, but it is essential that we put it into practice! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">W. W. Feredy </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 9050</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">December 4</span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-90034213890597881922022-10-01T07:33:00.035-04:002022-10-30T08:17:32.436-04:00Gems from October 2022<p> <span style="font-size: x-large;">October 1</span></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>For we are members of His body, of His flesh, and of His bones. Ephesians 5:30 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Out of the great continent of Africa, there are people who are unable to count beyond ten--the number of their fingers. One of these folk was asked how many oxen he possessed. He replied that he could not tell. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"Then how would you know if one or two of your oxen were missing?" was the next question. "Not because the number was less, but because I should miss a face." <u>Beloved Christian friend, if by any possibility you fail to appear in heaven, you would be missed! But there is no such possibility</u>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">I like very much the reply which the old lady gave to one who objected to her rejoicing so unfeignedly in the biblical assurances of the security of the believer. <br /><br />"You seem pretty confident about this salvation of yours. I would not be too sure about it if I were you. Suppose the Lord should let you slip through His fingers."<br /><br />"But," said the old saint, "He cannot do that since <u><em>I happen to be one of His fingers myself</em></u>." <br /><br /><em><strong>"The love that led me all the golden way,<br />Nor left me when my feet had gone astray, <br />Will hold me still at dying of the day<br />And bring me home."</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">George Henderson - Heaven's Cure for Earth's Care</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8987</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Then came the officers to the chief priests and Pharisees; and they said unto them, Why have ye not brought Him? The officers answered, Never man spake like this Man. John 7:45-46 </strong></span> <br /><br />Rummaging amid the refuse in a temple in inaccessible Tibet a Buddhist priest picked up a torn piece of paper. That paper contained words of the Lord Jesus Christ.<br /><br />This man did not know who had written or spoken these words. His heart asked no question of the truth or authority of the message, but in response to them, he put on sackcloth, was broken in repentance immediately, for he felt that God had spoken.<br /><br />All he read was, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God." (Matthew 5:8)</strong></span> He cried, "I am not pure in heart; I shall not see God." This one arrow slew all his spiritual pride. One sentence from the lips of Jesus our Lord turned the priest into a conscious stricken sinner. <br /><br />The wound that the words made was later healed by the balm of the gospel. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Come unto Me, all ye that labour, and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Matthew 11:28)</strong></span> The priest heard, came, and was saved. <br /> </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Our Lord Jesus Christ - A Plant of Renown - Leonard Sheldrake. </span></span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8988</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, Who loved me, and gave Himself for me. Galatians 2:20 </strong></span><br /><br />Were we to walk in the light and power of this great foundation truth, humility would characterize us. The flesh, in its vanity and assumption, would be mortified; and the meek and lowly spirit of Jesus would be manifested. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">The bird that soars on highest wing, builds on the ground her lowly nest,<br />And she that doth most sweetly sing, sings in the shade when all things rest. <br /> In lark and nightingale we see what honour hath humility. <br /><br />When Mary chose the better part, she meekly sat at Jesus feet.<br />And Lydia's gently opened heart was made for God's own temple meet.<br />Fairest and best adorned is she, whose clothing is humility. <br /><br />The saint that wears heaven's brightest crown in humble adoration bends;<br />The weight of glory bows him down, then most, when most, his soul ascends.<br />Nearest the throne must ever be, the footstool of humility. </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When Christ is a complete covering to the eye, contentment fills the heart. We can afford to take the lowest place. Everything needed to make us happy is found in Him. He is not only fair to the eye, but pleasant to the heart. Many are fair that are not pleasant, and many are pleasant that are not fair, but Christ is both. <br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Behold, thou art fair, my beloved, yea, pleasant." </strong></span><br /><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="color: blue;">(Song of Solomon 1:16)</span></span></strong></span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> <br />Meditations on the Song of Solomon - Andrew Miller </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8989</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Then said one unto Him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And He said unto them, <u>Strive to enter in at the strait gate</u>. Luke 13:23-24 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Some persons seem constantly occupied with religious questions. Their enquiry is not, "Am I saved?" but, are others saved?" Sometimes we find a fond parent solicitous about the future state of a dying child, a kind master anxious about his afflicted servant's spiritual condition, and others manifesting concern for the ignorant and poor around them, without laying to heart what their own state before God really is. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It was so in the days of our Lord. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"One said unto Him, Lord, are there few that be saved?"</strong></span> to which Jesus replied, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Strive to enter in at the straight gate."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Thus He sought to lead him away from the consideration of others, to ponder the all-important question of his own soul's salvation; and exposed the folly of appearing concerned for others, while he himself was on the broad road to destruction. So weighty, so essential, is the point, and so fatal would a mistake be, that He commands them to <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"strive</strong></span> <strong>(or agonize)</strong> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>to enter in at the strait gate."</strong></span> <br /><br />We do well to observe, that the instruction here is not that they were to do a great many things, or even one thing, to make themselves fit for God; or that they were to wander through a long, tedious labyrinth to find blessing and safety. No; it is simply a <strong>"gate"</strong> that is presented to them as the alone way of escape; and their security and blessing depended on their entering in at the gate.<br /><br />The condition of all outside is most perilous; but <u>there is a way of escape;</u> and judgment and condemnation must overtake those who do not accept the only way of deliverance by entering in at the strait </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em>(narrow door)</em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> gate. <strong><em>[Christ crucified]</em></strong>.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Streams of Refreshing H. H. Snell (1815-1891)</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8990</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Thou shalt hide them in the secret of Thy presence from the pride of man: Thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues. Psalm 31:20 </strong></span><br /><br />Just as the clouds were gathering in the days of Mordecai and Esther, so they are gathering around us today. It looked very bad for God's people, but although God is neither heard nor seen throughout the book of Esther, He was working behind the scenes for the blessing of His people, then and now. <br /><br />In <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Psalm 3:8</strong></span> we read, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Thy blessing is upon Thy people."</strong></span> Dear believer in the Lord Jesus, <u>there is no reason why we should ever be discouraged, we are on the winning side</u>! When our strength is gone, then He will come in and deliver. <br /><br />Two of the hardest lessons for us to learn are <u>dependence and obedience</u>. This is really what makes up the path of faith, it is not complicated . . . but we may make it so. One who goes on quietly in the presence of God in simplicity, reading the Word and praying, does not find the path complicated. <br /><br />God has raised up individuals to do His work, and sometimes very strange or unexpected persons are used to carry out His purposes. We remember those scriptures which say,<span style="color: blue;"><strong>". . . out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast Thou ordained strength" (Psalm 8:2)</strong></span>. This we have in the book of Esther. Can you imagine this young captive, like an exotic plant in the wilderness, moving kingdoms? She did. Don't say, "There's nothing for me to do." <br /><br />The great thing for you and me is to be in such a state of soul that God can use us. It is easy to say when we get up in the morning, "Lord, make me a channel of blessing today," but it is a little different to sit down and meditate on the Word of God and wait upon God. In the very last days of Israel's future history, when they will be restored, they are told to wait upon God. Oh how hard this is for the flesh. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Esther - C. E. Lunden </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8991</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Absalom . . . reared up for himself a pillar . . . and it is called unto this day, Absalom's place. 2 Samuel 18:18</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Prince Albert died of typhoid in 1861. Queen Victoria had an enormous four sided granite pyramid constructed in his memory within the grounds of Balmoral Castle in Scotland. An inscription bears testament to the fact that it was "erected by his broken hearted widow." It is called Prince Albert's Cairn. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Absalom had a pillar erected so that his name would be remembered. Our Lord did not seek a physical monument to His memory but He did institute a weekly memorial gathering around simple emblems so that His own followers would actively remember Him. Will you remember Him today in the way He asked? </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Brian Powlesland</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>A monument of grace, a sinner saved by blood,<br />The streams of love I trace, up to the fountain, God. John Kent</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus the same night in which He was betrayed took bread:<br /><br />And when He had given thanks, He brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is My body, which is broken for you: <u>this do in remembrance of Me</u>. <br /><br />After the same manner also He took the cup, when He had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in My blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of Me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord's death till He come.<br />1 Corinthians 11:23-26 </strong></span><br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8992</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">HANDS -- A MIGHTY MECHANISM<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might. Ecclesiastes 9:10 <br /><br />Let us lift up our . . . hands unto God in the heavens. Lamentations 3:41</span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Stay a minute, and look at your hand, the hand that holds this little book as you read it. See how wonderfully it is made; how perfectly fitted for what it has to do; how ingeniously connected with the brain, so as to yield that instantaneous and instinctive obedience without which its beautiful mechanism would be very little good to us! <br /><br /><strong><em>Your</em></strong> hand, do you say? Whether it is soft and fair with an easy life, or rough and strong with a working one, or white and weak with illness, it is the Lord Jesus Christ's. It is not your own at all; it belongs to Him. He made it, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"for without Him was not anything made that was made" (John 1:3),</strong></span> not even your hand. And He has the added right of purchase--He has bought it that it might be one of His own instruments. <br /><br />We know this very well, but have we realized it? Have we really let Him have the use of these hands of ours? and have we ever simply and sincerely asked Him to keep them for His own use?</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 14px;">Jesus, Master, whom I serve, though so feebly and so ill,<br />Strengthen hand and heart and nerve all Thy bidding to fulfill;<br />Open Thou mine eyes to see all the work Thou hast for me.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 13px;">Opened Treasures - Frances Ridley Havergal </span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8993</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>He (Daniel) went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees . . . and prayed. Daniel 6:10 </strong></span><br /><br />Daniel did not have to open his windows when he wanted to commune with his Lord. Apparently they were open (as are our windows in India) all the time. Is it not a perfect picture of how we are meant to live? <br /><br />We do not have to spend even one minute in opening our windows, if our custom is to keep them open. To be earthly-minded, moved by self-love, self-pity, self-will--that trend of feeling which leads to self-occupation--is to close the shutters. <br /><br />Are my windows open toward (Jerusalem) HIM? Is my whole being, with all its various "windows", always open? Sometimes winds blows from one side or another and a window is blown shut. If that happens, do I know it at once? Lord Jesus, let me know it at once. Do not let me go on with any windows shut or half-open. Lord, help me to keep my windows open continually "toward Jerusalem". </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Edges of His Ways - Amy Carmichael </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8994</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another. <br />Galatians 5:25,26 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We usually call vainglory, conceit. The law makes us more vainglorious or conceited than we were before, instead of destroying our vainglory, because <u><span style="color: black;">the law makes me think of myself</span></u>. <br /><br />Though as we have seen, if we use the law in the right way it is most useful, for when I think of myself, and see how bad I am -- when I see how far short of the righteous demands of the law I come -- then the law helps to compel me to own myself a lost sinner. But the law, as we have seen, never can produce righteousness. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">And the law cannot produce holiness either. The law is not the rule of life for the Christian. Even the </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>Christian's</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> flesh is not subject to the law, and so the law cannot produce holiness in it. But God has given us a new life, and the Holy Spirit dwells in us, to produce fruits which are well-pleasing to God. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Strengthened by the Holy Spirit, living by Him, walking by Him, led by Him, <u>taught by Him from the Word of God</u>, (the Bible), let us each one by Him seek to <u>walk in line</u>, to <u>keep step, to walk, in the footsteps of Christ</u> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(1 Peter 2:21)</strong></span>. If we keep step, we are likely also to <strong>"<u>keep rank</u>"</strong> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(1 Chronicles 12:33). </strong></span><br /><br />Let us remember:<br />1. Through the Spirit we <u>wait for (eagerly expect) the hope of righteousness by faith</u> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Galatians 5:5)</strong></span>. 2. We <u>walk</u> in The Spirit. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(5:16)</strong></span>. 3.The <u>Spirit opposes the flesh</u>. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(5:17)</strong></span>. 4. <u>We are led of the Spirit</u>. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(5:18)</strong></span>. 5. We <u>live in the Spirit</u>. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(5:25)</strong></span>. 6. We <u>keep step by the Spirit</u>. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(5:25)</strong></span>. 7. We <u>sow to the Spirit</u> to reap life everlasting. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(6:8)</strong></span>. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Meditations on Galatians - G. C. Willis</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8995</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>THE QUEENS QUESTION - CAN WE BE SURE?</em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. Romans 10:9</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">Is there any way of making sure that we shall spend eternity in heaven, welcomed into the fellowship of God and not in "the second death" of eternal separation from Him? Many suppose that this question, the greatest that can confront one, must necessarily wait for its answer until the present life is over. But is it so? Must the question of eternal blessedness or misery, heaven or hell, remain a torturing uncertainty till too late to make any change? </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">A beautiful incident in the experience of Queen Victoria is worth remembering. It is unquestionably authentic. The Queen had attended a service in St. Paul's Cathedral and had listened to a sermon that interested her greatly; then she asked her chaplain,</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><span face="arial, "helvetica neue", helvetica, sans-serif"> </span></span><span face="arial, "helvetica neue", helvetica, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">"<u style="font-size: 16px;">Can one be absolutely sure in this life of eternal safety</u>?"</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"> His answer was that he "knew of no way that one could be absolutely sure." </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">This was published in the Court News and fell under the eye of a humble minister of the Gospel, John Townsend, an intimate friend of George Muller, whose life of faith led to the founding of his well-known orphanages. John Townsend was the father of "Sister Abigail," another Christian of extraordinary faith and service. After reading Queen Victoria's question and the answer she received, John Townsend thought and prayed much about the matter, then sent the following note to the Queen:</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: georgia, times, "times new roman", serif; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">"To her gracious Majesty, our beloved Queen Victoria, from one of her most humble subjects: With trembling hands, but heart-filled love, and because <u style="font-size: 16px;">I know that we can be absolutely sure even now of our eternal life in the Home that Jesus went to prepare</u>, may I ask your Most Gracious Majesty to read the following passages of scripture: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>John 3:16; Romans 10:9-10? </strong></span> These passages prove there is full assurance of salvation by faith in our Lord Jesus Christ for those who believe and accept His finished work. I sign myself, your servant for Jesus' sake," <em>John Townsend</em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">John Townsend was not alone in praying about his letter to the Queen. He took others into his confidence, and much prayer from many hearts went up to God. In about a fortnight he received a modest-looking envelope containing the following letter: </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face="helvetica neue, helvetica, arial, verdana, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">To John Townsend:<br />Your letter of recent date received and in reply would state that I have carefully and prayerfully read the portions of Scripture referred to. I believe in the finished work of Christ for me, and trust by God's grace to meet you in that Home of which He said, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I go to prepare a place for you."</strong></span> (Signed ) Victoria Guelph </span></span><br /><br /><span face="helvetica neue, helvetica, arial, verdana, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Whether one is an earthly monarch or an inconspicuous unknown person the way of salvation and of eternal life is the same. - </span></span></em><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"><span face=""helvetica neue", helvetica, arial, verdana, sans-serif">Come Home</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8996</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>I have surely seen the affliction of My people . . . come now, therefore , I will send thee, (Exodus 3:7,10) </strong></span><br /><br />Does that seem a weak ending to a powerful beginning? The Lord God looks upon terrible affliction and He sends a weak man to deal with it. Could He not have sent fire from heaven? Could He not have rent the heavens and sent His ministers of calamity and disasters? Why chose a man when the archangel Gabriel stands ready at obedience?<br /><br />This is not the way of the Lord. He uses human means to divine ends. He works through man to the emancipation of men. He pours His strength into a worm, and it becomes an instrument with teeth. He stiffens a frail reed and it becomes an iron pillar.<br /><br />A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing;<br />Our helper He, amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing.<br />For still our ancient foe doth seek to work us woe;<br />His craft and power are great,<br />And armed with cruel hate, on earth is not his equal.<br /><br />Did we in our own strength confide, our striving would be losing.<br />Were not the right Man on our side, the Man of God's own choosing.<br />Dost ask who that may be? Christ Jesus, it is He,<br />The Lord of Host's His name, from age to age the same. <br />And He must win the battle. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Martin Luther </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">And this mighty God will use thee and me. On every side there are Egypts where affliction abounds, there are homes where ignorance breeds, there are workshops where tyranny reigns, there are lands where oppression is rampant. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Come now, therefore, I will send thee."</strong></span> Thus saith the Lord, and He who gives the command will also give the equipment." </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. H. Jowett</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8997</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>He that entereth in by the door is the shepherd of the sheep. John 10:2 <br />I am the door of the sheep. John 10:7</strong></span><br /><br />You may have heard a little incident told by Dr. Piazzi Smith. On one occasion he saw a shepherd leading his flock up the hill. He led them into the fold and made them comfortable, and then Dr. Smith said, "Do you leave the sheep in this fold all night?" "Yes." "But aren't there wild beasts around?" "Yes." "Wont they try to get the sheep?" "Yes."<br /><br />"Well, you have no door here; how can you keep the wild beasts out?" "But the Arab shepherd lay down on his side, and as he settled himself in the entry way, he looked up and smiled and said, <strong>"I am the door."</strong> You see, no wild beast could enter without awakening him, and no sheep would go out over his body. <br /><br />So Jesus said, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I am the Door."</strong></span> I am the one through whom My sheep enter into blessing and I am their <u>guard</u> and their <u>guide</u>. Then He says, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I am the door: by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture." John 10:9</strong></span>. <br /><br />Oh, that is what David meant when he said,<span style="color: blue;"><strong> "He leadeth me beside the still waters, He maketh me to lie down in green pastures." (Psalm 23:2)</strong></span> The shepherd takes care of the sheep, guides them to proper pastures, where they are refreshed and fed. <br /><br />So our blessed Lord makes Himself responsible for those who put their trust in HIm. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Gospel of John - H. A, Ironside </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8998</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth. <br />1 Peter 2:21,22 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">With what perfect and entire confidence did Jesus give Himself over into His heavenly Father's care. It enabled Him to face the most trying hour, to drink the most bitter cup, and to endure the taunt during His crucifixion, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"He trusted in God; let Him deliver Him now, if He will have Him: for He said, I am the Son of God." (Matthew 27:43)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">How many a perplexity would we avoid by turning ourselves over to God as He did. In seasons of darkness and trouble, let us lift the confiding eye of faith to Him and say, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I am oppressed; undertake for me." (Isaiah 38:14)</strong></span> How blessed we are if we believe that He directs all that befalls us; that no contingencies can frustrate His plans; and that the way He leads us with all its briars and thorns is not only <strong><em>a</em></strong> right way but, <em><strong>the</strong></em> right way. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The result of such a habitual staying of ourselves on the Lord will be a deep, abiding peace. Ripples that a storm ruffles can only be on the </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>surface</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> of the ocean--all beneath is a serene settled calm. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Isaiah 26:3</strong></span> </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Thou wilt keep Him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on Thee."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Christian! look back on your checkered path. Look at how wondrously He has threaded you through the maze of your way, relieving your fears and bringing about your hopes! Are there evils looming in the future? Do not anticipate the trials of tomorrow but leave them with Him, knowing that no affliction will be sent that is greater than you can bear.<br /> <br />His voice will be heard stealing from the bosom of the threatening cloud, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Be still, and know that I am God" (Psalm 46:10)</strong></span>. As with Israel of old, He will make those very waves that may now be so threatening a fenced wall on every side! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">J. R. Macduf</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>f</strong></em><br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8999</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>SPRINGTIME TO OUR SOULS</em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin. And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever. If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. John 8:34-36. </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Only the total availability of our souls to the impinging presence of the Living Lord can set them free. Just as the sun of spring rising ever higher in the sky releases the earth from its winter bondage, so the new life of the Risen Sun, the Christ of God, sets our spirits free. <br /><br />Jesus Himself said, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed. (Joh 8:36)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. Free to follow Him. Free to to revel in His love. Free to find abundant energy, hope, and life in Him.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">All of us have our summer days of strength and bright assurance. All of us, too, have our autumn days when the shadows lengthen across our years. All of us will have our winters of deep despair and some the dark pain of death. And all of us can know again the powerful resurgence of Christ's triumphant, overcoming life made real in our experience by His presence and resurrection power.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We must find our life, our strength, our love, our hope, our ultimate healing, and wholeness in Christ. All other human philosophies will cheat us of the best. All other false religions, mysticism, or spiritism of any sort, are but a delusion that leads to darkness, despair, and death. <br /><br />But glory of glories, wonder of wonders, Christ brings His light amid our darkness. He brings His love into our despair. He brings His life to replace our death. <strong><em>He is springtime to our souls</em></strong>! </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Songs of My Soul - W. Philip Keller </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9000</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 2 Corinthians 5:17 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Many years ago, a dear man, newly saved, was giving his testimony at an open air gospel preaching street meeting in a large city. As he was speaking, a heckler in the crowd began to taunt him. He yelled: "Why don't you shut up and sit down? <strong>"YOU'RE JUST DREAMING."</strong> Hardly had the heckler finished yelling at the Christian when he felt a tug on his coat. Glancing down he looked into the sweet face of a neatly dressed little girl. With a soft, trembling voice and an earnest look, she stared into the face of the heckler and asked; <strong>"SIR, MAY I SPEAK TO YOU?" </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The heckler taken aback by her quiet, serious and courteous demeanour, could only nod a "yes". With a trembling but firm voice the little girl began. "That man up there talking is my daddy. Daddy used to to get drunk almost every night. He spent all the money he made at work, down at the saloon. My mama was very sad and we cried a lot. Sometimes when my daddy came home, he would be angry and hit my mama. I was scared and would hide. I never had nice shoes or a nice dress to wear to school because daddy was always drunk." Pointing happily to her clothing she continued. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"Look at my new shoes and my pretty dress. Guess what? My daddy bought these for me." The heckler began to squirm uneasily, looking for a way to escape, but the little evangelist wasn't through with him yet. "See this lady over there in the pretty blue dress? That my mama. She's the only one that has a big smile on her face. Sir, do you know that now she doesn't cry anymore when daddy comes home and I don't have to hide anymore, either. Mama sings even when she is doing the ironing." <br /><br />The heckler, quite deflated and embarrassed, was by now desperately looking for escape from the group of people who had been listening to the child's testimony. But there was no escape until she finished, saying with all the sweet innocence and purity of a small child: <strong>"MISTER, IF YOU REALLY THINK MY DADDY IS DREAMING, PLEASE DON'T WAKE HIM UP"</strong> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><em><strong>Doug Nicolet - 2007 </strong></em></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9001</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"The Lord is on my side; I will not fear: what can man do unto me?" (Psalm 118:6) <br />When He giveth quietness, who then can make trouble? Job 34:29 <br /> </strong></span><br />The Lord is for me. What can man do unto me?<br />Nothing. <br />Nothing that really matters. <br />Nothing that can do any harm. <br />Nothing that will not be turned to golden good. <br /><br />Sometimes we feel as though man could do a great deal. A perverse child can cloud a whole day. The sight of deadly sin, injustice and suffering can overwhelm us. And deeper things, the inward assaults of the never-resting foe (though he is not man but stronger than man) can seem to do appalling things. <br /><br />But still the word stands, the question that can have only one answer. The Lord is for me. What can man do unto me? Nothing. <br /><br />And to another question there is only one answer. <span style="color: blue;"><strong><em>"When He giveth quietness, who then can make trouble?"</em></strong></span> No one. However things seem, the answers to those two questions are among the things that cannot be shaken. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Whispers of His Power - Amy Carmichael </span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Be not dismayed what-e'er betide, God will take care of you;<br />Beneath His wings of love abide, God will take care of you.<br /><br />Thro' days of toil when heart doth fail, God will take care of you;<br />When dangers fierce your path assail, God will take care of you.<br /><br />All you may need He will provide, God will take care of you;<br />Nothing you ask will be denied, God will take care of you. <br /><br />No matter what may be the test, God will take care of you;<br />Lean, weary one upon His breast, God will take care of you.</span><span style="font-size: 16px;"> </span><span style="font-size: 11px;">G. D. Martin </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9002</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Then was the secret revealed unto Daniel in a night vision. Daniel 2:19 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Daniel was able to show Nebuchadnezzar that, in his dream, God had revealed the whole course of Gentile power, and how it would end. His dream of the great image covered from the time of the Babylonian empire, until times yet future, when the revived Roman empire will again be a force in the world. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In his dream Nebuchadnezzar saw the image struck by a stone cut without hands out of the mountain. It smashed the image to pieces and ground it to powder. The stone was then seen to become a great mountain that filled the whole earth. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Daniel was able to show that the empires of this world are headed for destruction, and that when Christ returns in power and glory, it will not be to improve the world system but to destroy it completely. Christ will establish His kingdom in the world where men once cried, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Away with Him, crucify Him" (John 19:15), </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">saying in effect<strong>,</strong></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong> "We will not have this Man to reign over us" (Luke 19:14)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Now we might wonder what all of this has to do with us. This revelation is significant to us because, knowing what God has in mind for the political and social systems of our world, we will understand that the Kingdom of Christ will not come through a process of gradual improvement in the human condition, nor through our political or social involvement. <br /><br />No. God's plan is to destroy the world system, and on its ashes to establish His Kingdom of Righteousness. This knowledge will preserve us from expending our energies on improving world conditions. Instead we should direct them toward spreading the gospel of Christ, which tells man that he is hopelessly depraved and that the answer is not in improving his nature or his world, but in receiving new birth. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Daniel - William Burnett.</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 9003</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Behold, I show you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed. 1 Corinthians 15:51 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;"><u>We may not die</u>, but rise and meet the Lord! <br />This blessed hope, God shows us in His Word, <br />The Spirit makes it plain to us, His own,--<br />He'll catch us from the world, to His Own throne.<br /><br /><u>We may not die</u>, but rise and meet the Lord!<br />Oh, the bright glory these few words afford!<br />Changed instantly, the twinkling of an eye,<br />And see Thee face to face, our Lord for aye! <br /><br /><u>Some shall not die</u>, but rise and meet their Lord,<br />O precious promise! faithful, true and good!<br />Although we do not know the day or hour,<br />We know that He Himself shall come in power.<br /><br /><u>We may not die</u>, then let us more pure be,<br />Cut off each sin, unseen, or that men see. <br />This world is passing, Heaven will quickly come, <br />Then let us day by day, be more like Him! <br /><br /><u>We shall arise</u>, and meet Him in the air!<br />Then let us not entangled be down here!<br />We look for Christ! We do not look for death!<br />Our hope at any hour, to leave this earth.<br /><br /><u>We shall arise,</u> and to our Lord ascend,<br />When His victorious shout the air shall rend!<br />O Come! Lord Jesus Come! His saints now cry,<br />Come quickly! so, we e'er shall be with Thee.</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">G. Christopher Willis</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9004</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Therefore watch, and remember, that by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night and day with tears. Acts 20:31 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The passage from which this is an extract reveals clearly the nature of these warnings and the cause of them. He foresaw that grievous wolves </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Acts 20:29)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> would enter in among them, not sparing the flock, and that of their own selves men would arise speaking perverse things.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The history of the church proves with what unerring wisdom and foresight the Apostle spoke, and to-day on every hand we see what mischief the wolves have wrought, and what perverse things are spoken everywhere. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">If there was need for the Apostle to warn, how much more need is there for such warnings to-day, from all who have the true interests of Christ's sheep at heart. <br /><br />The greatest need today is for every true servant of Christ, every one who cherishes the truth and to whom Christ's interests are dear, to remember the exhortation as well as the example of the Apostle, and to feed the church of God and warn the flock. Evidently every other kind of method was accompanied and supported by prayer, for at the close of the address this great servant of God (Paul) <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"kneeled down and prayed with them all." (Acts 20:36)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Break of Day - Russell Elliott </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9005</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Of His own will begat He us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of first-fruits of His creatures. James 1:18 </span></strong></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>But of Him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption. 1 Corinthians 1:30 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Our relationship with God and the Father is all settled, and settled forever. We are children, and our relations with God flow from that. We are to act as children of God and God deals with us as with children. We are not yet glorified, that is clear.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For our conversation in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ: who shall change our vile body, that it may be fashioned like unto His glorious body, according to the working whereby He is able even to subdue all things unto Himself. (Philippians 3:20,21) "Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is." (1 John 3:2,3). </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">This hope keeps the heart turned to Christ where He is in the glory. Gazing upon Him there with the hope of being like Him soon, already has its purifying effect upon us now. How can we have such a wondrous hope of being like Christ? Solely because the blessed Son of God has been made </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him." (2 Corinthians 5:21)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. <br /><br />There on the cross He was forsaken of God and dealt with as though He were that sinful person that we are. The moment we really believe that there is nothing actually too great for Him to do for us, we may expect anything! There is nothing His love would hold back from us after such a sacrifice of Himself. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. N. Darby</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 13px;">Till Thou come, o keep us steady, keep us walking in Thy ways; At Thy call may w be ready, On Thee, Lord, with joy to gaze; And in heaven sing Thine everlasting praise.</span></em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">T. Kelly</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 9006</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Be content with such things as ye have: for He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. </strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Hebrews 13:5 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">About, above me, evermore, Christ's gentle presence broods,<br />He shares with me my silences, He fills my solitudes. <br /><br />His face, His form, I cannot see, no spoken word can hear,<br />But with some finer sense of soul do I perceive Him near. <br /><br />Oh, how my heart within me burns! what ecstasy is mine,<br />That He thus vouchsafes unto me His comradeship divine.<br /><br />Are not these joys too sweet to last? May He not soon depart?<br />"Lo, I am with you all the days" He answereth my heart. </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">There are <u>three great Biblical names</u>, whose spiritual meanings unfold what God can be to His people during the days of their pilgrimage. These words cover, not only the special need of which we have been thinking, but also every problem and difficulty which we may encounter as we journey to the Land of Rest. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>The first is <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Ebenezer</strong></span></u><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"</strong></span>, which means <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Hitherto hath the Lord helped us (1 Samuel 7:12)</strong></span>. The <u>second is</u> <strong><span style="color: blue;">"Emmanuel"</span></strong>, which means, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"God with us" (Matthew 1:23)</strong></span>. The third is <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Jehovah-Jireh"</strong></span>, which means <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"The Lord will provide" (Genesis 22:14)</strong></span>. <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Ebenezer"</strong></span>--with all the happy memories that it recalls--that is the only word that adequately explains the past. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Emanuel"</strong></span> with all the wealth of comradeship that it connotes--that is the only word that can give assurance for the present. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Jehovah-Jireh"</strong></span>--with all the boundless provision that it implies--that is the only word that can impart confidence as we face the future. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Best is Yet to Be - Henry Durbanville </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9007</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">A PARABLE OF THE FANNER BEES <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called the children of God. Matthew 5:9</span> </strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It was a glorious night of midsummer--a moon at full and a host of stars. The old bee garden was bathed in soft crystalline light--and ever so light a breeze lisped in the treetops. At the door of one of the hives we came to a halt. There arose from the hive a sibilant...persistent...not unlike the sound of sea waves...advancing...<wbr></wbr>retreating. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"They are fanner bees," whispered the old beekeeper. "Its their job to keep the hive sweet and fresh. They're standing with their heads lowered, turned toward the center of the hive. Their wings are moving so rapidly that if you could see them you would think you were looking at a gray mist. They are drawing the bad air through one side of the entrance, while the pure air is sucked in on the other side." </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Standing there close to nature, listening to the bee fanners, I felt close to one of nature's wonders--the mystery of the hive life. Presently the old bee-keeper stooped to the hive, holding a lighted candle in his hand. Instantly the light was extinguished by the strong air current, those infinitesimal bee wings moving in unison, making a draft so strong that the candle light was instantly quenched. Think of it! <br /><br />As we stood there in the starlit garden the old preacher said, "The fanners--drawing out the bad air, letting in the fresh. Isn't that how people who call themselves Christians ought to act?" If we had enough fanners, if they were as keen on their jobs as those bees are on theirs, wouldn't the great hive of the world grow sweet and fresh? </span><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Selected</span></strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Now thanks be unto God, which...maketh manifest the savour of His knowledge by us in every place. For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish." (2 Corinthians 14,15)</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9008</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And the Lord said, Simon, Simon, behold, Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: but I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: and when thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Luke 22:31,32 </strong></span><br /><br />The word translated <em><strong>"desired"</strong></em> is really a stronger term than our English word; it is better rendered <em><strong>"demanded."</strong></em> Just as Satan went before God and practically demanded to have the opportunity to test Job, accusing him before God, saying that Job loved God only for what God gave him, so Satan demanded to test Peter. But Jesus said, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not." </strong></span><br /><br />You know when we get into the Devil's sieve he can shake us up badly, but all that is left when he is through is chaff: the wheat falls through, and Satan has only the chaff. So do not be afraid of the Devil's sieve; <u>God is able to sustain us</u>. Remember that Jesus has said, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not!"</strong></span> <br /><br />Peter failed sadly. He denied his Lord three times, but his faith was preserved, and we find him turning back to Jesus and able to say, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Lord, Thou knowest all things; Thou knowest that I love Thee." (John 21:17)</strong></span> The Lord Jesus said, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"And when thou art converted</strong></span> [when you are restored], <span style="color: blue;"><strong>strengthen thy brethren."</strong></span> Sometimes the Lord has to allow some of His best servants to fail terribly in order to show them their weakness, and that they may be more tender and sympathetic toward others. <br /><br />Not realizing his own weakness Peter said, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Lord, I am ready to go with Thee, both into prison, and to death." (Luke 22:33)</strong></span> But the Lord said, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I tell thee, Peter, the cock shall not crow this day, before that thou shalt thrice deny that thou knowest me." Luke 22:34)</strong></span> The Lord knew Peter far better than he knew himself, and He knows you and me better than we know ourselves. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong> Luke - H. A. Ironside </strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9009</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep [or garrison] your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7</strong></span><br /><br />It is most important that we should be engaged with Him--for this reason, that our care not infrequently is the consequence of some failure on our own part and </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">consequently, sensitive, conscientious souls fix their eye upon their own delinquencies, and become disqualified for enjoying this peace of which we are speaking. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Of course, if the believer has sinned, that sin must be confessed, and communion restored. We could not for a moment imagine the peace of God filling the heart of anyone who is pursuing a path of disobedience. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But, on the other hand, it is to be noticed that in the verse before us it says nothing as to this peace becoming ours because of anything we have either done or not done. It is </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"through Christ Jesus."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Let us think of Him.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He is altogether pleasing to God. He was the Obedient One--obedient </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>unto</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> death, even the death of the cross; and nothing was ever more glorifying to God; and </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">that Cross has, as it were, shut you out of God's sight altogether as to what you have done and what you are, and left only Christ in all His perfection between you and God</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">And so the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, reaches </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>us</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> through a perfect medium, and does not have to find its way through our imperfections, or possibly it would be turned back long before it came to our hearts at all. Christ Himself is the living link between your heart and God's. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Angels in White - Russell Elliott </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9010</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>WORDS IN SEASON</em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">The Lord God hath given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him that is weary." Isaiah 50:4 <br /><br />A word spoken in due season, how good is it! Proverbs 15:23 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lord, speak to me, that I may speak<br />In living echoes of Thy tone;<br />As Thou hast sought, so let me seek<br />Thy erring children lost and lone.</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">If God had passed over the sin of Adam and Eve in the garden, I should have been able to say, Sin is no matter, but when I look at the cross I cannot. <br /><br />Take out redemption and scripture becomes impossible to understand; introduce it, and all is plain. <br /><br />If we who believe on Him were not justified and made like Him, He would not see of the fruit and travail of His soul. . . . <u>A Redeemer without the redeemed would have lost the reward of His work and sufferings</u>. We form part of the glory of Christ, and it is a deep source of joy to our souls that we by our likeness to Him in eternity shall be the proof of the value of the work of Christ. <br /><br />The Lord is coming . . . the time for the world is passing away. . . . May God find us watching, and thinking only of one thing--of Him about Whom God thinks--Jesus, our precious Saviour. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Footprints for Pilgrims - J. N. Darby </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9011</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>ABIDE IN CHRIST</em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full. John 15:11</span></strong><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Abiding fully in Christ is a life of exquisite and overflowing happiness. As Christ gets more complete possession of the soul, it enters into the joy of its Lord. His own joy, the joy of heaven, becomes its own, and that in full measure, and as an ever-abiding portion. <br /><br />Just as joy on earth is everywhere connected with the vine and its fruit, so joy is an essential characteristic of the life of the believer who fully abides in Christ, the heavenly Vine. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">We all know the value of joy. It alone is the proof that what we have really satisfies the heart. As long as duty, or self-interest, or other motives influence me, men cannot know what the object of my pursuit or possession is really worth to me. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But when it gives me joy, and they see me delight in it, they know that to me at least it is a treasure. Hence there is nothing so attractive as joy, no preaching so persuasive as the sight of hearts made glad. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Just this makes gladness such a mighty element in the Christian character: there is no proof of the reality of God's love and the blessing He bestows which men so soon feel the force of as when the joy of God overcomes all the trials of life. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">And for the Christian's own welfare, joy is no less indispensable: the joy of the Lord is his strength; confidence, and courage, and patience find their inspiration in joy. With a heart full of joy no work can weary, and no burden can depress; God Himself is strength and song. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Abide in Christ - Andrew Murray </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9012</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps: Who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth. 1 Peter 2:21-22</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In this passage the sufferings of Christ are spoken of as an example for the Christian to follow. In </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>John 13:36</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, the Lord told Peter, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Whither I go, thou canst not follow Me now."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> He was going to the cross to lay down His life for the sins of His people. <br /><br />Neither Peter not anyone else could have part in the atoning sufferings of the Son of God. In this the Lord Jesus Christ was all alone. But <u>in His pathway leading up to the cross Christ suffered for righteousness' sake, not for sin</u>, and in this He is a model for us.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Sin having come into the world through man's disobedience, we now see the sad effects of it on every hand. There is much suffering in this world as a result. Unrighteousness thrives, and the Christian finds himself in the midst of these conditions. He has received a new nature that delights to do the will of God and everything around him is foreign to him now.<br /><br />The believer has been set apart by God to the obedience of Christ. That means the Christian is to obey as Christ obeyed. And <u>as we take on that heavenly character that was portrayed by Christ, we will experience the hatred and opposition of the world. As they rejected and hated Christ, so also will they treat His followers</u>. <br /><br />And in the way in which Christ responded to such treatment He is a model to us. <u>He submitted to the cruelties of man but committed Himself and the outcome to God</u>. He rested in the fact that God, in whom He trusted, would judge righteously. What peace it gives to the soul when one leaves all in God's hands. He will bring all hidden things to light and rightly evaluate all. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. Redekop </span></strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9013</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 28</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept: and He took one of his ribs, and closed up the flesh instead thereof; and the rib, which the Lord God had taken from the man, made He a woman, and brought her unto the man. "They shall be one flesh." (Genesis 2:21-24) (Mark 10:8) </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We can surely take this as the first hint that all believers are permanently united with Christ in the bond of holy matrimony as His bride.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Close to the heart -</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> the rib cage surrounds vital organs, namely heart and lungs. We correctly associate our heart with love as the seat of our affections. So taking the rib in preference to any other bone tells us of God's love towards His creature and the expression of love that Adam no doubt had for his mate.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The operation -</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> God as surgeon put Adam into a deep sleep and the rib was extracted. I liken it to surgery because it says God closed up the flesh afterward. This suggests the sleep of death to which the Lord Jesus was subjected, in order that He could win a bride for Himself. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The connection -</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> For a lifetime afterwards, Adam and Eve were grateful for the bond between them, since he says in the following verse, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"This is now bone of my bone, and flesh of my flesh"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. And so are we, as we consider our union with the Lord.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Protection - Ephesians 5:25-28 </strong><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"So ought men to love their wives as their own bodies"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Part of the marriage is the husband's promise to cherish (protect) his wife as long as they live. This is suggested by the protective role of the rib cage around the heart and lungs, both organs essential to life itself. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The testimony -</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> These thoughts lead us to contemplating and displaying the connection between natural wedlock and the marriage of the Lord Jesus to His bride, the church (composed pf everyone who has been redeemed by His blood). We have the privilege and responsibility to represent that unity in the durability and character of our earthly marriages.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Eternity -</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> When we get to glory, the relationship between husband and wife will be eclipsed by total absorption with our relationship to the Lord as His bride, for whom He died. And in this we will be completely satisfied. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I will behold Thy face in righteousness, I shall be satisfied when I awake with Thy likeness. Psalm 17:15</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Lorne Perry </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9014</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God who loved me, and gave Himself for me. Galatians 2:20</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The Christian should regard himself as the channel through which the manifold grace of Christ may flow out to a needy world; and the more freely he communicates, the more freely will he receive, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"for there is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that with-holdeth more than is meet, and it tendeth to poverty." (Proverbs 11:24)</strong></span><br /><br />This places the believer in a place of sweetest privilege, and, at the same time, of the most solemn responsibility. He is called to be the constant witness and exhibiter of the grace of Him on whom he believes. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Now, the more he enters into the privilege, the more will he answer the responsibility. If he is habitually feeding upon Christ, he cannot avoid exhibiting Him. The more the Holy Spirit keeps the Christian's eye fixed on Jesus, the more will his heart be occupied with His adorable Person, and his life and character bear unequivocal testimony to HIs grace. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Faith is at once the power of ministry, the power of testimony, and the power of worship. If we are not living </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"by the faith of the Son of God, who loved us, and gave Himself for us,"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> we shall neither be effectual servants, faithful witnesses, nor true worshippers. <br /><br />We may be doing a great deal, but it will not be service to Christ: we may be saying a great deal, but it will not be testimony for Christ: we may exhibit a great deal of piety and devotion, but it will not be spiritual and true worship. </span><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Genesis - C. H. Macintosh </span></strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9015</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 30</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it: for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die. <br />Genesis 2:17</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Note the remarkable contrast between the testimony set up in Eden and that which is set up now. Then, when all around was </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>life</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, God spoke of </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>death</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; now, on the contrary, when all around is death, God speaks of <em><strong>life</strong></em>: then, the word was, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"in the day thou eatest thou shalt</strong> <strong>die</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">;" now, the word is <span style="color: blue;">"</span></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><u style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>believe</strong> and <strong>live</strong></u></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;">."</span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">And, as in Eden the enemy sought to make void God's testimony as to the result of eating the fruit, so now he seeks to make void God's testimony as to the result of believing the gospel. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">God had said, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely <u>die</u>"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; but the serpent said, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Ye shall not surely <u>die</u>."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> And now, when God's Word plainly declares that </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"he that beliveth on the Son <u>hath</u> everlasting life" (John 3:36)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, the same serpent seeks to persuade people that they have </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong style="font-size: 16px;">not</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> everlasting </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>life</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, nor should they presume to think of such a thing until they have first </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>done</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>felt</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> and </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>experienced</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> all manner of things.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">If you have not yet heartily believed the divine record, let me beseech you to allow </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"the voice of the Lord"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> to prevail above the hiss of the serpent. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He that heareth My word, and beliveth on Him that sent Me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life." (John 5:24)</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">C. H. Mackintosh</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 9016</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 31</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u><strong>I am not what I was</strong></u>,</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: but now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of </strong></span><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Christ</strong></span><span style="color: blue;"><strong>. Ephesians 2:12,13 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>I am not what I shall be</strong></u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is. 1 John 3:2</strong></span> . </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><u style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>I am not what I should be</strong></u>, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called. Ephesians 4:1</strong></span>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><u style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>I am not what I would be</strong></u>, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. Philippians 2:12,13</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>But, by the grace of God, I am, what I am:</strong></span><span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong> </strong></span><span style="color: blue;"><em><strong>and His grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me. 1 Corinthians 15:10</strong></em></span></u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em><br /></em></strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>When I trace the way He's led me in the many years gone by, Kept us thru the many trials, sent us succour from on high, </em></strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>Kept us in the sore temptations, when the tempter's voice was heard, In my soul I hear Him whisper; Child of God, hold fast my Word.<br /><br />When I look into the future, think of what I yet may meet, And of how the subtle tempter, spreads his snares to catch my feet. </em></strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>Then my eyes will turn to Jesus seated on the Father's throne, See Him there my intercessor pleading for His feeble one.</em></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;">(<em><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif">From the Archives of Tom Dear) </span></strong></em><br /><br /><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif">N.J. Hiebert - 9017</span></strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Now <u>the Spirit speaketh expressly that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith</u>, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron; forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving...1Timothy 4:1-3 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Behind this apostasy there is the direct influence of seducing spirits leading to the doctrines of demons in contrast to the truth. The apostate is not simply a neglecter of the truth, nor a rejector of the truth. He is one who, having made a profession of the faith, deliberately gives up the truth and takes up some other religious creed as being superior to Christianity. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The demons speak lies while professing to maintain the truth. The devil we know </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"is a liar." (John 8:44)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> and beguiled our first parents by speaking lies in hypocrisy. The fact that the truth has no power over their souls and that they give heed to doctrines of demons clearly proves that their consciences are so seared that they are no longer able to distinguish between good and evil. <br /><br />Apostasy, then, involves not only the giving up of the truth but also the adoption of error--the doctrine of demons. In place of the truth the apostate affects a religion of the flesh which professes to be of the very highest sanctity. They make the assumption of extraordinary purity by forbidding to marry, and great self-denial by abstinence from meats. <br /><br />In reality, having turned from the faith, they deny God as our Saviour, and in refusing marriage and meats, they deny God as the Creator. This means the loss of all true piety which fears God, and in result opens the door to licence and wantonness. These seducing spirits, pandering to the pride of the flesh, hold out before men the promise of the greatest sanctity in order to lead them into the deepest corruption. </span><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;"> <br />1 Timothy - An Expository Outline - Hamilton Smith</span></strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 9018</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>WHAT KIND OF FAITH?</em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">According to your faith be it unto you. Matthew 9:29 </span></strong><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Do I have the right kind of faith? </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"If you have any faith at all, you may be sure it is the right kind."</em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Do not waste time taking your faith apart and putting it back together. Do not expect saving faith to be some strange, different kind. You believe in Christ with faith like the faith you use when you trust someone or something else. <br /><br /><u>It is the object that makes the difference</u>. If you have any uncertainty about the matter, come to a definite decision. Trust Christ now. It may help you to put down the time and place. You must have confidence in the decision and consider it settled. But do not confuse faith in your faith with faith in the Saviour. <u>Faith has no value of its own, it has value only as it connects us with Him</u>. <br /><br />It is a trick of Satan to get us occupied with examining our faith instead of resting in the Faithful One. Go to Him just as you are as best you know. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out." (John 6:37)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Vance Havner</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">O what a Saviour that He died for me! from condemnation He hath made me free;<br />'He that believeth on the Son' saith He, 'Hath everlasting life'<br /><br />All my iniquities on Him were laid, all my indebtedness by Him was paid;<br />All who believe on Him, the Lord hath said, 'Have everlasting life.'<br /><br />Though poor and needy, I can trust my Lord, though weak and and sinful, I believe His word; O blessed message! every child of God, 'Hath everlasting life.'<br /><br />Though all unworthy, yet I will not doubt, for him that cometh, He will not cast out,<br />He that believeth, O! the good news shout, 'Hath everlasting life.' </span></strong></em><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. McGranahan</span></span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 9019</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound: that as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 5:20,21.</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The blood of the Lamb cleanses the conscience from every speck and stain of sin, and sets it, in perfect freedom, in the presence of a holiness which cannot tolerate sin. <u>In the cross, all the claims of divine holiness were perfectly answered; so that the more I understand the latter, the more I appreciate the former</u>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The higher our estimate of holiness, the higher will be our estimate of the work of the cross. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Grace reigns, through righteousness, unto eternal life, by Jesus Christ our Lord."</strong></span> Hence the Psalmist calls on the saints to give thanks at the remembrance of God's holiness. This is a precious fruit of a perfect a redemption. <u>Before ever a sinner can give thanks at the remembrance of God's holiness, he must look at it by faith, from the resurrection side of the cross</u>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We see Adam as a type of Christ; but he is not merely to be viewed typically, but personally--not merely as absolutely shadowing forth <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"the second Man, the Lord from heaven,"</strong></span> but also as standing in the place of personal responsibility. In the midst of the fair scene of creation, the Lord God set up a testimony, and this testimony was also a test for the creature. <br /><br />It spoke of <strong><em>death</em></strong> in the midst of life. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"In the day that thou eatest thereof, thou shalt surely die."</strong></span> Strange, solemn sound! yet it was a needed sound. Adam's life was suspended upon his strict obedience. The link which connected him with the Lord God <em><strong>was</strong></em> obedience, based on implicit confidence in the One who had set him in his position of dignity--confidence in His truth--confidence in His love. He could obey only while he confided. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> C. H Macintosh</span></span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 9020</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">November 4</span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-47347299540279167412022-09-01T09:30:00.037-04:002022-09-30T06:25:44.279-04:00Gems from September 2022<p> <span style="font-size: x-large;">September 1</span></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>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 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">What an exciting thought-- </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"When the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth His Son."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">For centuries, which grew darker and darker, the faithful people of God waited for the promised Messiah who would reign, according to </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Isaiah 9:6, "Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Isaiah goes on to say that </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"of the increase of His government and of peace there shall be no end." </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He will reign with judgment and with righteousness, from henceforth even forever."</strong></span> But when would He come? When would be this </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"fullness of the time"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">? 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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"The fullness of the time"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> has come! And all who believe <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"God sent His Son"</strong></span>. <br /><br />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 <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Philippians 4:7)</strong></span>. We can enjoy Him now if we recognize and own Him as the One sent to redeem us from our sins. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br />L.J. Ondrejack </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8957</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>For the builders, every one had his sword girded by his side, and so builded. Nehemiah 4:18 </strong></span><span style="color: lightblue;"><strong> </strong></span><br /><br />An evangelist came for a week's work. "Please will you lend me a Bible?" he asked.<br />"Haven't you brought your own?" <br />"No, I thought I could borrow one." <br /><br />Compare that with Nehemiah's builders. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Every one had his sword girded by his side."</strong></span> 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. <br /><br />Our sword, of course, is a spiritual thing; it is the word of God, as <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Ephesians 6:17</strong></span> tells us. Let us never go anywhere without it. Whatever we don't take, let us take that. <br /><br />Now for today, and the foes of today, here is a great word:<span style="color: blue;"><strong> Psalm 144:1 "Blessed be the Lord my strength, which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight.</strong></span><br /><br />He will teach us how to use our sword today. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Whispers of His Power - Amy Carmichael. </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8958</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">THE IMPOTENCE OF WORLDLY WISDOM<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">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</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"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)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">DANIEL - Godly Living in a Hostile World - William Burnett. </span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8959</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 16px;">ROUGH WATER</span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow thee. Isaiah 43:2</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">There are no words of comfort like those that our Father speaks to us. We are called to go straight through the foaming river holding fast to this assurance. <br /><br />And we look at the white water. There are pot-holes among the boulders where a foot might be caught and held; a sudden spate might easily overwhelm us; the spray half blind us; the noise deafen us. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">There is no human way, no human hope; there is nothing to be seen but a boiling flood, boulders, snags, tossing spray; there is not one inch of smooth water anywhere. But the word of our God holds fast. It would be cowardice to fear. God save us from cowardice. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>"Be of good cheer, my brother; I feel the bottom, and it is good."</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>(John Bunyan - Pilgrims Progress - 1628-1688)</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But life can be terrifying. Things can happen that seem to tear such words out of our mouth and drive them like dust before a hurricane. Look at that shattered life, that young life, and tell me of a God of mercy and pity--how can you? </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Those words fall on many hearts today; and only He whose prayer in Gethsemane began with the words, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"O My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me,"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> can enable the soul of man in its extremity to continue that prayer as He continued it, and to end it as He ended it. There are times in life when the one place in all the world where we can find what we are seeking is the garden of Gethsemane. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">From that garden it is only a few steps to Golgotha, where they crucified Him. Our questions are hushed there. - </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Gold by Moonlight - Amy Carmichael.</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. HIebert - 8960</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>GUIDED BY THE PILLARS OF GOD</em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night. </span></strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Exodus 13:21 </span></strong><br /><br />What is of importance to notice here is that the people of Israel were divinely guided on their march. He who selected their path guided them in it, went before them in the the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night, in all their wanderings. These gracious symbols of His presence He never took from them as long as they were in the wilderness. <br /><br />This is only an illustration of the truth, that the Lord is ever a guide of His people. He who leads them out of Egypt may ever be seen before them in the path in which they have entered. He never says, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Go"</strong></span>; but His word is always, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Follow Me."</strong></span> "<span style="color: blue;"><strong>I am the way, the truth, and the life." (John14:6)</strong></span>. It is quite true that we have not the visible guidance which the children of Israel enjoyed; but it is no less discernible and certain to the spiritual eye. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path." (Psalm 119:105)</strong></span> <br /><br />It is interesting to remark that there was no such guidance in Egypt or in the land. This brings out the important truth, that <u>it is only in the wilderness, that the indication of a way is needed</u>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">And there is in His tenderness and mercy that the Lord leads His own, showing them the way in which they should walk, where they should rest, and when they should march, leaving nothing to them, but Himself undertaking all for them, only requiring that their eyes should be kept fixed on their Guide. Happy are the people who are thus led, and who are made willing to follow, who by grace are enabled to say, </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Only Thou our Leader be, and we still will follow Thee.</strong>" </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif">Edward Dennett </span></strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8961</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Is it lawful to give tribute to Caesar, or not? Mark 12:14</strong></span> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">We need to note the answer, for from it we learn what the Christian's attitude is to be with regard to this present evil world and the powers that govern it. A more important question could scarcely be raised. For God's earthly people to be under the heel of a foreign power, even though through their own fault, was the most grievous and humiliating situation conceivable. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">What to do in regard to this was the burning question of the hour. Notice, Christ does not tell them to offer resistance. His reply is, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar's." (Mark 12:17) </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">This is all the more remarkable, because the conditions then existing were wholly contrary to what God intended, and Christ could easily have altered such conditions had He wished. But He leaves the matter just where it was. The fact is, He never interfered in the world's matters, and if He did not, was He likely to advise others to do so? He found the Romans in power, and He left them in power. He was born under their yoke, He died under it. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">It was the Roman power that crucified Him. Christ never once resisted that power. The only time He used force was to drive the money-changers out of the temple. But the temple was His Father's House, God's things. The point for us is that the Lord did not allow Himself to become embroiled in the politics of the world, nor would He sanction the use of carnal weapons. <br /><br />So there are God's things and Caesar's things. Let us be careful that we render to God the things that are God's. In this way we shall render the best service to the world. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Break of Day - Russell Elliott </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8962</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And it came to pass, when Joseph was come unto his brethren, that they stripped Joseph out of his coat, his coat of many colours that was on him; and they took him, and cast him into a pit: and the pit was empty, there was no water in it. Genesis 37:23,24 </strong></span><br /><br /><u>THE SON REPUDIATED</u> The father had distinguished him by a coat of many colours, the brethren degrade him by stripping him. So on many illustrious occasions when Christ is distinguished above all others by some special display of divine power, wisdom and grace, man will at once strip Him of His coat of many colours and seek to degrade Him to the level of a mere man by asking,<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Is not this the carpenter's son?"</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Matthew 13:55)</strong> <strong>or is not this the carpenter?"</strong> </span><strong><span style="color: blue;">(Mark 6:3)</span> </strong>As in the case of Joseph, the stripping was only the prelude to the pit, so with Christ, the rejection of every witness to His glory, led man at last with wicked hands to deliver Him to death. <br /><br /><u>THE SON RESCUED</u> There is however a significant difference between the type and the antitype. Isaac in his day very blessedly brings the death of Christ before us. He may be bound upon the altar, Abraham may stretch forth his hand and take the knife to slay his son, but at once the angel is present to stay his hand. Joseph may again take up the story of the cross, as his brethren cast him into the pit, but for him <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"the pit was empty, there was no water in it."</strong></span> <br /><br />How different the cross of Christ. The same God at whose bidding <span style="color: blue;"><strong> "Abraham stretched forth his hand, and took the knife to slay his son," (Genesis 22:12)</strong></span> can now say, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Awake, O sword...against the Man that is my fellow." (Zechariah 13:7)</strong></span> and though twelve legions of angels await His commands, yet not one is bidden to hold back the sword of judgment. It is no empty pit into which He must go. He can say, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Thou hast laid me in the lowest pit, in darkness, in the deeps. Thy wrath lieth hard upon Me, and Thou has afflicted Me with all Thy waves" (Psalm 88:6,7). </strong></span></span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Hamilton Smith</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8963</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Thy wrath lieth hard upon me, and Thou hast afflicted me with all Thy waves. Selah. Psalm 88:7 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>THE SON REWARDED</strong>: </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">While the sufferings of Isaac and Joseph both point to the cross, yet each portray a different aspect of that great mystery. Isaac goes up to the mount to be offered up. Joseph goes down to the pit. And the mount speaks of the glory of the Person offered up. The pit tells of the misery and degradation of those for whom He is offered up. He is the son, and more, the only son, and yet more he is the promised heir, Isaac, and beloved of his father. <br /><br />But when Joseph goes down to the pit, while it is true his moral excellence cannot be hid, yet it is not his personal glory that is prominent but rather the evil and corruption of those who surround Joseph. If at last his brethren are to be brought into blessing and share in the glory of Joseph, then Joseph must take their place of distance and degradation as set forth in the pit. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Without the shedding of blood there is no remission," (Hebrews 9:22)</strong></span> and <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die it abideth alone" (John 12:24). </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">THE SON REVEALING:</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Having cast Joseph into the pit, his brethren <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"sat down to eat bread." (Genesis 37:25)</strong></span>. Nor was it otherwise at the cross. The presence of Joseph only serves to reveal the evil of his brethren, just as the cross becomes the occasion to expose the depth of corruption in the heart of man. The leaders of Israel yield up the true Passover Lamb to death, and calmly sit down to eat the passover feast--an evil and adulterous generation, like the adulterous woman in <span style="color: blue;"><strong> Prov. 30:20. </strong></span><br /><br />The company of merchant men on their way to Egypt at once suggest to Judah the opportunity of making profit out of their brother. Why not sell Joseph and make a little money? If they are not going to gratify their hatred by killing Joseph, why not gratify their covetousness by selling Joseph? Hence they gave their brother up to the Gentiles and gave themselves up to money making. And what Judah did a thousand years before Christ came, His descendants have done for nearly two thousand years since His rejection. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Jospeh - Hamilton Smith</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8964</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">- In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. Genesis 1:1</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>- Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me. John 14:6<br />- Behold, I come quickly. . .I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last. . . .Even so come, Lord Jesus. <br />Revelation 22:12,13,20.</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">An old stone-breaker said, as he sat by the roadside, during the lunch hour, reading his much worn Bible. A party of tourists came by, and one of them said: "How can an old fool like you understand that Book?" With the grace of a Christian gentleman, the old man replied: "It would not be possible, sir, in the ordinary way; but you see </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">I happen to know the Author</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Ye shall not add unto the word which I command you, neither shall ye diminish aught from it..." (Deuteronomy 4:2)</strong></span> The outstanding instance of the want of accuracy in quoting Scripture is found in </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Genesis 3</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. It is a warning that in dealing with the Word of God, </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">we should take nothing from it</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">add nothing to it</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">and change nothing in it</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. <br /><br />Eve did all three. </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">She took from </u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>the Word of God</u>. God had said: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat", </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">save one; but Eve omitted the word <strong><span style="color: blue;"> "freely"</span> </strong>making God to appear less bountiful than He was<strong> <span style="color: blue;">(Genesis 2:16)</span></strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> She <u>added </u></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>to the Word of God</u>. He had said of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Thou shalt not eat of it." </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But in her reply to Satan Eve declares that God had also said: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"neither shall ye touch it"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <u>which He had not</u> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Genesis 2:17; 3:3; Proverbs 30:6) </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">She </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>changed</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> the word of God. He had said: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"In the day thou eatest thereof thou <em>shalt</em> surely die." (Genesis 2:17; 3:3)</strong> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">but when Eve quoted the words of warning she said: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"neither shall ye touch it lest ye die."</strong></span> and by so doing changed an absolute certainty into a mere possibility <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Matthew 4:4).</strong></span> She thus misquoted the terms of the divine permission, overstated the prohibition, and underated the penalty. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Wonderful Word - George Henderson </span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8965</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. Galatians 6:7. </strong></span><br /><br />What solemn words are these. If a man sows rice, he reaps rice. If a man sows turnips, he reaps turnips. Day by day we are sowing--sowing what? We are sowing thoughts, words, deeds! What shall we reap? What will the harvest be? <br /><br />There are three things the Apostle brings to our notice about sowing:<br />1. <em><strong>What</strong></em> we sow: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Whatsoever a man soweth</strong></span>, that very thing <span style="color: blue;"><strong>he shall also reap."</strong></span><br />2. <em><strong>Where</strong></em> we sow: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He that soweth to </strong></span>(in the interests) <span style="color: blue;"><strong>of his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption:"</strong></span><br />- <span style="color: blue;"><strong>He that soweth </strong></span>(in the interest of) <span style="color: blue;"><strong>to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting." (Galatians 6:8)</strong></span><br />3. <em><strong>How</strong></em> we sow: <strong><span style="color: blue;">"He which soweth sparingly, shall reap also sparingly; He which soweth bountifully, shall reap also bountifully." (2 Corinthians 9:6)</span></strong> <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not." (Galatians 6:9). </strong></span></span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Galatians - G. C. Willis </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8966</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." 1 </strong><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Corinthians</strong></span></span><strong style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> 10:13 </strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>The Occasion Of Temptation</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. The least passage of your life may prove an occasion of sin to you: at what a little wicket (small door) many times a great sin enters! David's eye did but casually light on Bathsheba, and the good man's foot was presently in the devil's trap: you have need to pray that God would set a guard about your senses wherever you go, and to cry with Him, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity"?</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Psalm 119:37)</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It should be our care, if we would not yield to the sin, nor to walk by, or sit at the door of the occasion: parley (discuss) not with that in your thoughts, which you do not mean to let into your heart. <u>If we mean not to be burnt, let us not walk upon the coals of temptation</u>. You tempt God to suffer your locks to be cut, when you are so bold as to lay your head in the lap of a temptation. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Judges 16:19)</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Set a strong guard about your outward senses: These are Satan's landing-places especially the eye and the ear. Take heed what you import at these; vain discourse seldom passes without leaving some tincture upon the heart. And for your eye, let it not wander; wanton objects cause wanton thoughts. Job knew his eye and his thoughts were likely to go together, and therefore to secure one he covenants with the other. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I made a covenant with mine eyes; why should I think upon a maid." Job 31:1</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Christian in Complete Armour - William Gurnall (1616-1679)</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8967</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">My son, let them (scriptures - Psalm 119:11) not depart from thine eyes: Keep sound wisdom and </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">discretion;<br /><br />So shall they be life unto thy soul, and grace to thy neck. <br /><br />Then shalt thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not stumble. <br /><br />When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: Yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall be sweet. Proverbs 3-21-24 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Some one has said, "</span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It is not enough that one hold the truth, if the truth hold not him</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">." </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">To so take hold of what God has revealed as to have it control the heart and life, is what is continually insisted on in this most practical of all books.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Thus, to <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"keep sound wisdom and discretion,"</strong></span> gives one to lay hold on what is really life, and ornaments the neck with grace. The foot, too, will be kept from stumbling, and the disciple will be guided in the way of truth. <br /><br />Rest and refreshment become likewise the portion of all who esteem the Word of God above all the thoughts of men. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Notes on Proverbs - H.A. Ironside</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8968</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is <u>that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God</u>. Romans 12:2 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Acceptable"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> in Tamil means </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>lovable</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">beloved</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">: and in the preceding verbs I found something strengthening and comforting: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It would fare ill with us if He tired of renewing that which does so often faint and fail; for though we do truly choose to prove that good, acceptable, perfect will, and declare it to be beloved, yet sometimes we slip just there, and then comes discouragement. Here is the word for such an hour. We have a God who renews, renews day by day. <br /><br />(The same verb is used in <span style="color: blue;"><strong>2 Corinthians 4:16 "The inward man is renewed day by day.") </strong></span> <em><strong>Renewed</strong></em> in the spirit of our minds--<em><strong>renewed</strong></em> in the inward man, not once a year or at some special meeting, but day by day--we can conquer, we can rejoice in the will of God, and we can find it so lovable that we shall never for one moment want anything else. <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For even Christ pleased not Himself; but as it is written, the reproaches of them that reproached Thee fell on Me." (Romans 15:3) </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Thou Givest...They Gather - Amy Carmichael</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8969</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: mediumblue;"><strong>Call unto Me, and I will answer thee, and show thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not. Jeremiah 33:3 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Bill and Jack, two Christian young men, had attended an important meeting of the company they worked for. Though both had families they were on the 'fast track' moving up in the company and disregarded the first hurricane warning to stay until the end. Now, just a few miles from home, the hurricane overtook them with its 90 mile-per hour winds.The darkness and torrential rain hid the raging flood of water that suddenly swept their car off the road and down into a flooded farm field. Slowly sinking in the water and mire they struggled out of the car only to find themselves neck deep in fiercely turbulent flood waters with darkness disorienting them. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">"Where are you Bill?" yelled Jack into the storm. I'm over here, Jack," came a faint reply. Jack could barely see Bill almost 50 feet away. Bill yelled, "This current is murder. If we don't get our of here we'll drown." But I can't see you, Jack." "Follow the sound of my voice," Jack yelled again. "I'm over here. Work your way over to me." </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">Jack and Bill began to pray, crying to the Lord for help. Thoughts of their families had suddenly become far more important than job success. Just then Jack felt Bill grab his hand and start pulling. "Wait, Bill. Where are you going?" "I don't know. Just hold on tight" came the reply. Jack felt his friend pull him through the mud and swirling water. Finally the water began getting shallower--it was only to his waist--then to his knees. As he stumbled onto firm ground he felt Bill's hand let go. Turning to thank him, Jack could just barely see him about 40 yards away climbing up to the safety of a grass knoll. He must have been swept away just before they reached safe high ground.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">Finally back together Bill said, thanks for pulling me out. I didn't know which way to go. You saved my life." Jack laughed. "Bill, you had my hand. You pulled me out. I was about to thank you for saving my life." There was a long silence. Then Bill quietly said "Jack you were quite a distance away from me when we found this bank. You said that I pulled you but I know I didn't. I was being pulled. The fact is neither of us pulled the other. Jack if we were that far apart from each other than who was holding our hands?"</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Doug Nicloet - October 2008 </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8970</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed. . . Romans 1:16,17</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">An unsaved lawyer lay dying. He was known to be a man of unimpeachable integrity. He lay there facing eternity, troubled and distressed. Upright as he had been before men, he was a sinner before God. His awakened conscience brought to his memory sins and transgressions that had never seemed so heinous as now, when he knew that shortly he must meet his Maker. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">A friend put the direct question, "Are you saved?" "No," he replied, shaking his head sadly. The other asked, "Would you not like to be saved?" "I would indeed," was his reply, "But I do not want God to do anything wrong in saving me!" </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">His remark showed how deeply he had learned to value the importance of righteousness. The visitor turned to his Bible and there read how God had Himself devised a righteous way to save unrighteous sinners. In fact God has no other possible way of saving anybody. If sin must be glossed over in order that a sinner may be saved, he will be forever lost. God refuses to compromise His own character for the sake of anyone, much as He yearns to have all men be saved. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">H.A. Ironside</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"> The perfect righteousness of God<br /> Is witnessed in the Saviour's blood;<br /> 'Tis in the cross of Christ we trace <br /> His righteousness, yet wondrous grace.<br /> God could not pass the sinner by,<br /> His sin demands that He must die;<br /> But in the cross of Christ we see<br /> How God can save, yet righteous be.<br /> The sinner who believes is free,<br /> Can say, "the Saviour died for me":<br /> Can point to the atoning blood,<br /> And say, "This made my peace with God." </span><em><span style="font-size: 13px;">A. Mildlane<br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8971</span></em></strong></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>The cloak that I left at Troas with Carpus, when thou comest, bring with thee, and the books, but especially the parchments. 2 Timothy 4:13 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Paul was reduced to a few bare necessities. As the Christian grows older and as we draw nearer to the end of our earthly days and to the end of the age, only a few things really matter and we are amazed at how much we can do without. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">After disaster has wrecked house and home, the survivors clutch a few things they manage to recover, which take on a new value. As when a dear one leaves us for heaven, little things become doubly precious because of tender memories. <br /><br />As when one looks through the other end of a telescope, the small becomes large and the large becomes small. Cloak and parchments, food and raiment, let us be content therewith! <br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Philippians 4:11, 1 Timothy 6:6, 1 Timothy 6:8, Hebrews 13:5)</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><em><strong>All The Days - Vance Havner </strong></em></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8972</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God." 1 John 5:13</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>The fact of our salvation does not depend upon our own feelings</u>. They are the least reliable of all things to rest upon, they are treacherous and not to be trusted. <br /><br />As surely as we rest upon these frauds--our feelings--the Lord will see fit to withdraw them, in order that we may learn to rest upon Him. Therefore stay your faith upon Christ, not upon your most hallowed feelings, but on Christ Himself and His written promises. <br /><br />Whenever you are in doubt, perplexed, and unhappy, go at once to the Lord and His unfailing Word, and God's truth will disperse any mists of darkness which surround your soul. <br /><br />Let us learn to lean more upon the fact and less on our apprehension of it. We are to walk by faith and not by feelings.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Believe! and the feeling may come or may go,<br />Believe in the Word, that was written to show <br />That all who believe their salvation may know;</span></span><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">Believe and keep right on believing.</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br />By believing, we do not make anything true that was not true before. We simply bring ourselves into accord with what is and has always been the truth. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Robert E. Speer</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8973</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God. <br />But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. 1 </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">Corinthians 1:18,24</span></strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It becomes clear from these verses that the two great themes of the gospel are salvation and calling. On the one hand the gospel proclaims the way of salvation; on the other hand it presents to us the purpose of God for which we are saved. <br /><br />We are apt to limit the gospel to the important question of our salvation; but so doing we miss the far deeper blessing connected with God's eternal purpose, and thus fail to enter into the heavenly calling. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It is plain that the first great object of the gospel is our salvation, and God would have the believer to be in no uncertainty as to this salvation, as we read in this Scripture, He </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"<u>hath</u> saved us.</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">" The blessed effect of the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ is to set the believer beyond the judgment due to him on account of his sins, and to deliver him from the course of this world. <br /><br />So we read, He <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us out of this present evil world" (Galatians1:4)</strong></span>. Though for the time we are actually in the world, we are, as set free from its power and influence, morally not of it. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">2 Timothy - Hamilton Smith. </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8974</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Take thy wife, and thy two daughters, which are here; lest thou be consumed in the iniquity of the city. And while he lingered, the men laid hold upon his hand, and upon the hand of his wife, and upon the hand of his two daughters; the Lord being merciful unto him: and they brought him forth, and set him without the city. Genesis 19:16,17 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In the history of the times of Lot there was not only Lot himself, and the people of Sodom, but also Lot's wife. She perished not in Sodom, but between Sodom and Zoar. To her the departure from Sodom was </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>exile</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, not </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>deliverance</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Many of the camp in the wilderness treated separation from Egypt with the same mind. And this yields a solemn, practical question for us. How do our souls entertain the thought of separation from the world? In the esteem of our hearts is it </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>exile</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> or </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>redemption</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">? </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Are we singing over that thought, like Israel at the Red Sea; or, like Israel afterwards, are we remembering the fish of Egypt, its onions, its leaks, and its cucumbers? </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>(Numbers 11:5)</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. Lot's wife looked back, and she became a pillar of salt. She sighed as an </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>exile</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> from Sodom. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Do we sing as the ransomed of the Lord, out of it? <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Remember Lot's wife," (Luke 17:32)</strong></span> was the Saviour's weighty word in the midst of this discourse on the kingdom of God. And it is a weighty and serious word to lie on our hearts. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">J. G. Bellett</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 8975</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows. Matthew 10:29-31<br /><br />Therefore, I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, neither for the body, what ye shall put on. The life is more than meat: and the body is more than raiment. Consider the ravens: for they neither sow not reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: How much more are ye better that the fowls? Luke 12:6,7;22,24 </strong></span><br /><br />We are bound, of course, to use all proper means. But it will generally be found that <u>it is not what we can do that brings the care, but what we cannot do</u>. And it is just here we have to trust in God, simply resting in the words, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Your Father knoweth."</strong></span> If ye then be not able <em><strong>to do</strong></em> that thing which is least, why take ye thought for the rest? Do all you can do but <u>never be troubled about what you cannot do</u>. <br /><br />And then let us remember that a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth. It is astonishing, when we are put to the test, how little of real happiness depends upon things or circumstances. Christ had no money, and sometimes not where to lay His head, and yet He could speak of His peace and His joy. </span><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Angels in White - Russell Elliott </span></strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8976</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Be careful for nothing; <u>but in every thing</u> by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. Philippians 4:6 </strong></span><br /><br />He would have us, in the intimacy of His love, to be without reserve before Him--all told out, nothing kept back. Our danger never lies in telling Him too much, but just in the opposite direction. <br /><br /><u>He loves to hear the cry of His children, for He well knows that it is the expression of their confidence in Him</u>. It may be, as it often is, a foolish cry, but still it is the cry of His own children, and He never wearies of listening to it. <br /><br />God never spares His rod if thereby He can bless His children. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">But, He lifts it up on high,<br />With pity in His heart,<br />That every stroke His children feel<br />May peace and joy impart. </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">To enter into this will make an immense change in our experience. Meeting with trials and </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">difficulties we shall instantly ask, "What has the Father to say to us through these things?" In this way we shall receive nothing but blessing through the most adverse circumstances. <br /><br />Like vines, our poor hearts send out tendrils in all directions, winding themselves around this and that object, and then it is that the Father permits trials...to come in to snap these ties to objects other than Christ, and by the discovery of Himself and His love to us in these chastenings He seeks to wean us from everything that might hinder our progress, and to attract us more fully to Himself. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Footprints for Pilgrims - Edward Dennett </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8977</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Wherefore, as by one man sin came into the world, and death by sin; and so death passed upon all men, for that all have sinned. Romans 5:12 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The Bubonic plague, the Ebola virus, SARS, and most recently, the COVID-19 virus, have taken countless thousands of lives over the years. Yet these diseases have only affected a percentage of the world's overall population. But there is another disease that is the worst of all diseases combined, because it affects every person on this earth. And it brings death. <br /><br />It cannot be identified in a research lab; nor can it be seen under a microscope; and there is no earthly cure for it either. The Bible is the only reliable source of information on it. The Bible has identified it, described it, and has prescribed a cure for it. It is called <strong>SIN</strong>. It originated with one man, Adam. Through his disobedience <strong>sin</strong> entered the world, and the Bible says that as a consequence all are under condemnation. <br /><br />But God has prescribed a cure through another Man. John the Baptist introduced Him when, looking upon Jesus as He walked, he said,<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Behold! the Lamb of God, which taketh away the SIN</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>of the world." (John 1:29).</strong></span> Christ died for our <strong>SINS</strong> on the cross, and <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"the blood Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin" (1 John 1:7).</strong></span> But we must avail ourselves of it: </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For God so love the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved. He that believeth on Him is not condemned" (John 3:16-18).</strong></span><br /><br />This disease will be forever eradicated from the world when God brings in a new heaven and a new earth where only righteousness will dwell.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">(2 Peter 3:13)</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 13px;">Richard Barnett</span></em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8978</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, the Lord knoweth them that are His. 2 Timothy 2:19 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">What a blessed thought of comfort and cheer it is, which should forever banish fear and unbelief! The Lord, the One seated there in the Holiest, knows us personally. He knew us before we ever were in existence. He saw us before the foundation of the world. He knew all our vileness and depths of degradation. He knew us as we wandered in our sins. His loving eyes followed us then. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He sought us in His love and brought us to Himself. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">He gave us His life and dwells in us. Each believing sinner, saved by grace, is one Spirit with the Lord. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I know My sheep."</strong></span> He calleth each by name, like a Shepherd calleth His own sheep. What a comfort it should be to our hearts, that He knows each of us by name. He knows our circumstances, trials, difficulties and temptations. He knows our conflicts and our tears. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He knoweth the way, which I take."</strong></span> It is very precious! In Psalm 32 we find the comforting word for one whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I will guide thee with Mine eye upon thee."</strong></span> That eye up yonder, which measures the depths of the universe, which follows every planet, that eye which neither sleeps nor slumbers, that all-seeing eye rests upon us. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He is occupied with each. The millions of His people who have lived and died, who passed through life and are now at home with Him, were each individually the objects of His care. His loving eye was upon the multitudes of martyrs. He knew and watched that poor tortured saint, who was cast with broken bones into a dungeon to starve to death. His power and love rested upon those who were burned or cast before wild animals.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">For each He served and worked. And so He does still. Oh, the preciousness that each believer is under the loving care of the Man in Glory, the object of His love. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Work of Christ - A. C. Gaebelein </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8979</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him: but I will maintain mine own ways before Him. Job 13:15<br /><br />For the which cause I also suffer these things: nevertheless I am not ashamed: for I know Whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him against that day. 2 Timothy 1:12 </strong></span><br /><br />"In fierce storms," said an old seaman, "we must do one thing; there is only one way: we must put the ship in a certain position and keep her there." <br /><br />This, Christian is what you must do. Sometimes, like Paul, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Acts 27:14-20)</strong></span> you can see neither sun nor stars, and no small tempest lies on you; and then you can do but one thing; there is only one way. <br /><br />Reason cannot help you; past experiences give you no light. Even prayer fetches no consolation. Only a single course is left. Put your soul in one position, keep it there. <br /><br />You must stay upon the Lord; and come what may--winds, waves, cross-seas, thunder, lightning, frowning rocks, roaring breakers--no matter what, you must lash yourself to the helm, and hold fast your confidence in God's faithfulness, His covenant engagement, His everlasting love in Christ Jesus.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Richard Fuller </span></span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Will your anchor hold in the storms of life, when the clouds unfold their wings of strife?<br />When the strong tides lift, and the cables strain, will your anchor drift, or firm remain?<br /><br />Will your anchor hold in the straights of fear, when the breakers roar and the reef is near?<br />While the surges rave, and the wild winds blow, shall the angry waves then your bark o'erflow?</strong></em><br /><br /><em><strong>We have an anchor that keeps the soul steadfast and sure as the billows roll;<br />Fastened to the Rock which cannot move, Grounded firm and deep in the Saviour's love.<br />Priscilla J. Owens</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J.Hiebert - 8980</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">SAD OR GLAD</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>For they all saw Him, and were troubled. Mark 6:50 <br />Then were the disciples glad when they saw the Lord. John 20:20 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The disciples saw Him in a storm but supposed Him to be a spirit. They did not recognize Him. But in our second verse they saw the risen Lord and knew Him by the print of the nails in His hands and feet. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Surely the sight of the Lord should make us glad. But sometimes we wist not that it was He. He draws near, but, like the Emmaus disciples, we have holden eyes. What should thrill us only troubles us. Indeed, as the Emmaus disciples related their experience, Jesus appeared, but they <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"supposed that they had seen a spirit." (Luke 24:37)</strong></span> He quelled their fears then as He did in John's account by showing the marks of the cross. <br /><br />We walk by faith, not by sight, these days, and are not granted a view of Him with our eyes. But in His dealings with us <u>He still walks our seas and comes into our rooms through doors we have shut</u>. Alas, that fear so often sees a spirit when faith should see the Saviour! What should bring triumph then brings only trouble. See Him and be glad! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Day by Day - Vance Havner </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8981</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Pilate saith unto Him (Jesus), what is truth? And when he had said this, he went out... John 18:38 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It is of vast importance to have the truth. It is a profound mistake not to have it, if it is to be had. Many a man has it not. The Christian has it. The believer in Christ has it. Christ is the truth, and I want to draw your attention to these precious words of the Saviour uttered by Him when surrounded by everything that the enmity of man could bring against Him, when betrayed, denied, blindfolded, and passed on from one careless high priest to another, and then trundled away to the judgment-seat of a godless man, as Pilate undoubtedly was. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Yet in the face of all this, what what was His attitude? Look at Christ! Look how quiet, how calm, albeit how sad. Then it was He said: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth My voice." (John 18:37)</strong></span> Pilate carelessly says </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"What is truth?"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> and then turns his back on Truth personified. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">There is many a man doing that to-day. Pilate is not the only man who has turned his back on the Truth. <br /><br />The truth, God's truth, may simply pass before us. I shall make mo apology for the Scripture. I believe it to be the Word of God. I believe it to be a revelation from God, of His mind, of His thoughts, of His purposes, and of His counsels; that we have in the Scriptures the truth written, and that in the Person of the Lord Jesus Christ we have truth incarnate. The result is, that the man who receives the truth of scripture, in the power of the Holy Ghost, will invariably be brought into contact with Christ, Who is the truth.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Seekers for Light - </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">W. T. P. Wolston, M.D. </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8982</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>But He giveth more grace. Wherefore He saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble. (James 4:6)</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Did we but know the perils which surround those who occupy high positions, we would cease envying them and commence praying for them--thankful and content to fill, in lowly obscurity, the niche which God intends us to fill.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;"> ". . . As the storm that makes<br /> The high elm crouch and rends the oak,<br /> The humble lily spares--so, a thousand blows<br /> That shake the lofty Monarch on his throne<br /> We lesser folk feel not. Keen are the pains <br /> Advancement often brings. To be secure<br /> Be humble; to be happy be content."</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Of all trees, I observe that God hath chosen the vine, a low plant that creeps upon the helpful wall; of all beasts, the soft and patient lamb; of all fowls, the mild and guileless dove. <br /><br />When God appeared to Moses, it was not in the lofty cedar, nor the sturdy oak, nor the spreading palm; but in a bush, a humble, slender, abject shrub; as if He would, by these elections, check the conceited arrogance of man.<br /><br /> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">"He that is down need fear no fall. <br /> He that is low, no pride;<br /> He that is humble ever shall<br /> Have God to be his guide</span><span style="font-size: 13px;">." <br /><br />Winsome Christianity - Henry Durbanville </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8983</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 28</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>I will say unto God my rock, why hast Thou forgotten me? <u>why go I mourning</u> because of the oppression of the enemy? Psalm 42:9 </strong></span><br /><br />Canst thou answer this, believer? Canst thou find any reason why thou art so often mourning instead of rejoicing? Why yield to gloomy anticipations? Who told thee that the night would never end in day? <br /><br />Who told thee that the winter of thy discontent would proceed from frost to frost, from snow and ice, and hail, to deeper snow, and yet more heavy tempest of despair? <br /><br />Knowest thou not that day follows night, that flood comes after ebb, that spring and summer succeed winter?<br /><br />Hope thou then! Hope thou ever! for God fails thee not. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif">C. H. Spurgeon</span></strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>He was better to me than all my hopes;<br />He was better than all my fears;<br />He made a bridge of my broken works,<br />And a rainbow of my tears.</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8984</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>And they that had laid hold on Jesus led Him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and elders were assembled. <br /><br />Now the chief priests, and elders, and all the council, sought false witness against Jesus, to put Him to death;<br /><br />But found none: yea, though many false witnesses came, yet found they none. At the last came two false witnesses,<br /><br />And said, This fellow said, I am able to destroy the temple of God, and to build it in three days Matthew 26:57,59-61. </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Late in the night, the members of the Sanhedrin were illegally assembled with one purpose in mind: to put Jesus to death. Having no witnesses, they sought for false witnesses. The high priest then put Jesus under oath to tell whether He was the Christ, the promised Messiah, the Son of God.<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Leviticus 5:1-4) </strong></span>required a person placed under oath to speak the truth. Jesus, who is the truth <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(John 14:6)</strong></span> used the occasion to tell the truth: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Jesus saith unto him, Thou hast said"</strong></span> (It is as you said.) <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"nevertheless I say unto you, Hereafter shall ye see the Son of Man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven" (v.64) </strong></span><br /><br />Then the high priest tore his clothes--something the law forbade--and accused Jesus of speaking blasphemy, Then they spat in His face and beat Him; and others struck Him with the palms of their hands, saying, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Prophecy unto us, Thou Christ, who is he that smote Thee? (vv,67-68).</strong></span> In such a wicked manner Israel's leaders treated the Lord of glory! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> E. Vedder, Jr.</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8985</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 30</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>For the Son of man shall come in the glory of His Father with His angels; and then He shall reward every man according to His works. Matthew 16:27 </strong></span><br /><br />The story is told of a soldier in the Crimean war. He had received a medal with Inkerman (War - 1854 November 5) upon it - for that was his battle; but he said the most touching part of it was the experience of a friend of his who fought at his side. A cannon ball took off one of his legs, but the brave fellow sprang up immediately and, taking hold of a tree, drew his sword, and was ready to fight even to death.<br /><br />Immediately another cannon ball came crashing past and took off the other leg. They carried him, wounded, bleeding, and, as they supposed, dying, to the hospital. Strangely enough, he, recovered, and when the day came for the awarding of medals they carried him upon his stretcher before her majesty, the queen. <br /><br />To the other soldiers she had simply given the medals by the hands of her secretary, but when she (Queen Victoria) saw this man carried in on a stretcher, his face so thin and pale, she rose from her throne, stooped down by his side, and pinned with her own hands the medal upon his breast, while the tears fell like rain upon the face of the brave soldier. <br /><br />Thus I trust it will be with many of us. We shall come into His presence, stand face to face with Him, and He will rise from His throne, coming forward to receive us, and as we look up into His face, thrones will vanish away and crowns will be as nothing, for to see Him with all His beauty will be the full reward. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;"> J. Wilbur Chapman </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>A man may go to heaven without health, without honours, without learning,<br />without friends;<br />But he can never get to heaven without Christ.</em></strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Selected</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8986</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>For we are members of His body, of His flesh, and of His bones. Ephesians 5:30 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Out of the great continent of Africa, there are people who are unable to count beyond ten--the number of their fingers. One of these folk was asked how many oxen he possessed. He replied that he could not tell. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"Then how would you know if one or two of your oxen were missing?" was the next question. "Not because the number was less, but because I should miss a face." <u>Beloved Christian friend, if by any possibility you fail to appear in heaven, you would be missed! But there is no such possibility</u>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">I like very much the reply which the old lady gave to one who objected to her rejoicing so unfeignedly in the biblical assurances of the security of the believer. <br /><br />"You seem pretty confident about this salvation of yours. I would not be too sure about it if I were you. Suppose the Lord should let you slip through His fingers."<br /><br />"But," said the old saint, "He cannot do that since <u><em>I happen to be one of His fingers myself</em></u>." <br /><br /><em><strong>"The love that led me all the golden way,<br />Nor left me when my feet had gone astray, <br />Will hold me still at dying of the day<br />And bring me home."</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">George Henderson - Heaven's Cure for Earth's Care</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8987</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Then came the officers to the chief priests and Pharisees; and they said unto them, Why have ye not brought Him? The officers answered, Never man spake like this Man. John 7:45-46 </strong></span> <br /><br />Rummaging amid the refuse in a temple in inaccessible Tibet a Buddhist priest picked up a torn piece of paper. That paper contained words of the Lord Jesus Christ.<br /><br />This man did not know who had written or spoken these words. His heart asked no question of the truth or authority of the message, but in response to them, he put on sackcloth, was broken in repentance immediately, for he felt that God had spoken.<br /><br />All he read was, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"blessed are the pure in heart for they shall see God." (Matthew 5:8)</strong></span> He cried, "I am not pure in heart; I shall not see God." This one arrow slew all his spiritual pride. One sentence from the lips of Jesus our Lord turned the priest into a conscious stricken sinner. <br /><br />The wound that the words made was later healed by the balm of the gospel. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Come unto Me, all ye that labour, and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Matthew 11:28)</strong></span> The priest heard, came, and was saved. <br /> </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Our Lord Jesus Christ - A Plant of Renown - Leonard Sheldrake. </span></span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8988</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, Who loved me, and gave Himself for me. Galatians 2:20 </strong></span><br /><br />Were we to walk in the light and power of this great foundation truth, humility would characterize us. The flesh, in its vanity and assumption, would be mortified; and the meek and lowly spirit of Jesus would be manifested. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">The bird that soars on highest wing, builds on the ground her lowly nest, And she that doth most sweetly sing, sings in the shade when all things rest. In lark and nightingale we see what honour hath humility. <br /><br />When Mary chose the better part, she meekly sat at Jesus feet. </span></strong></em></span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">And Lydia's gently opened heart was made for God's own temple meet. Fairest and best adorned is she, whose clothing is humility. </span></strong></em></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br />The saint that wears heaven's brightest crown in humble adoration bends; The weight of glory bows him down, then most, when most, his soul ascends. Nearest the throne must ever be, the footstool of humility. </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When Christ is a complete covering to the eye, contentment fills the heart. We can afford to take the lowest place. Everything needed to make us happy is found in Him. He is not only fair to the eye, but pleasant to the heart. Many are fair that are not pleasant, and many are pleasant that are not fair, but Christ is both. <br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Behold, thou art fair, my beloved, yea, pleasant." </strong></span><br /><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="color: blue;">(Song of Solomon 1:16)</span></span></strong></span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> <br />Meditations on the Song of Solomon - Andrew Miller </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8989</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">October 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Then said one unto Him, Lord, are there few that be saved? And He said unto them, <u>Strive to enter in at the strait gate</u>. Luke 13:23-24 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Some persons seem constantly occupied with religious questions. Their enquiry is not, "Am I saved?" but, are others saved?" Sometimes we find a fond parent solicitous about the future state of a dying child, a kind master anxious about his afflicted servant's spiritual condition, and others manifesting concern for the ignorant and poor around them, without laying to heart what their own state before God really is. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It was so in the days of our Lord. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"One said unto Him, Lord, are there few that be saved?"</strong></span> to which Jesus replied, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Strive to enter in at the straight gate."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Thus He sought to lead him away from the consideration of others, to ponder the all-important question of his own soul's salvation; and exposed the folly of appearing concerned for others, while he himself was on the broad road to destruction. So weighty, so essential, is the point, and so fatal would a mistake be, that He commands them to <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"strive</strong></span> <strong>(or agonize)</strong> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>to enter in at the strait gate."</strong></span> <br /><br />We do well to observe, that the instruction here is not that they were to do a great many things, or even one thing, to make themselves fit for God; or that they were to wander through a long, tedious labyrinth to find blessing and safety. No; it is simply a <strong>"gate"</strong> that is presented to them as the alone way of escape; and their security and blessing depended on their entering in at the gate.<br /><br />The condition of all outside is most perilous; but <u>there is a way of escape;</u> and judgment and condemnation must overtake those who do not accept the only way of deliverance by entering in at the strait </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em>(narrow door)</em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> gate. <strong><em>[Christ crucified]</em></strong>.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Streams of Refreshing H. H. Snell (1815-1891)</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8990</span></span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-84970012167882648762022-08-01T05:15:00.045-04:002022-12-20T09:42:30.203-05:00Gems from August 2022<p><strong style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. </strong><strong style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Hebrews 4:14 </strong></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Christ glorified--rest glorious</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. 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. <br /><br /><u>Adam disturbed His creation-rest</u>. <u>Israel disturbed His Canaan-rest</u>. 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. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Musings on Hebrews - J. G. Bellett</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8924</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>I have heard of Thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth Thee. Job 42:5 </strong></span><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Job was a good man already. He feared God and eschewed </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em>[shunned]</em></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> evil, and God called him </span><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong style="font-size: 16px;">"My servant Job"</strong></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> and said of him, </span><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"There is none like him in the earth." (Job 1:8)</strong></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Job had heard and had believed. That is good enough to start with. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God" (Romans 10:17)</strong></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. Moreover, Job had lived an exemplary life. But, like many who have come that far, he needed to </span><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>see</strong></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> 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. <br /><br />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, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I have heard of Thee by the hearing of the ear: <u><em>but now</em></u> mine eye seeth Thee" (Job 42:5)</strong></span> </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Faith is a very simple thing, tho' little understood;<br />It frees the soul from death's dread sting, by resting on the blood.<br /><br />It looks not on the things around, nor on the things within;<br />It takes its flight to scenes above, beyond the sphere of sin.<br /><br />It sees upon the the throne of God a victim that was slain;<br />It rests its all on His shed blood, and says, "I'm born again."<br /><br />Faith is not what we see or feel; It is a simple trust <br />In what the God of love has said of Jesus as the Just.</span></em><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Asa Hull</span></span></strong></em><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Day by Day with Vance Havner </span></span></strong></em><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8925</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>BEING USABLE</strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"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. </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>2 Timothy 2:21</strong></span><br /> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The word in </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>2 Timothy 2:21</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">simply says that if the vessel be clean it will be ready for the Master to use; and in Isaiah 6, the </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Send me"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> was in answer to the question,</span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Who will go?"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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? <br /><br />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.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Thou Givest...They Gather - Amy Carmichael </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8926</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>A brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord? Philemon 16</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Philemon 16)</strong></span> You are to pray particularly for those that are in distress: whoever you forget, remember these: this is a fit season for love. <br /><br />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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>Prayer and Thanksgiving</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. 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. <br /><br />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.<br /><br />As, a necessary ingredient in all our prayers: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"...with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." (Philippians 4:6)</strong></span>. 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. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Christian in Complete Armour - William Gurnall 1617-1679 </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8927</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>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 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Jesus, the sinless Son of Man, was hanging on the cross between two guilty criminals. Those who passed by wagged their heads and said, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He saved others; Himself He cannot save" (Matthew 27:42</strong>)</span> This reminds us of the words of the prophet Jeremiah, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"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.</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">The two thieves had witnessed the silent suffering of Jesus, and they had heard Him pray, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Father, forgive them." (Luke 23:34)</strong></span> 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 <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"today."</strong></span> 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!</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Luke records these last words of Jesus, as He cried with a loud voice, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Father, into Thy hands I commend My spirit."</strong></span> The very first words of Jesus are also recorded in <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Luke 2:49)</strong></span> after Jesus was found in the temple and said to His mother, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Wist ye not that I must be about my Father's business." <br /> </strong></span><br />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, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Certainly this was a righteous Man!</strong></span> <br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Luke 23:47)</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><em><strong>Jacob Redekop</strong></em></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8928</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"I have prayed for thee, that thy faith fail not: . . ." </strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Luke 22:32</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. <br /><br />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. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Isaiah 65:24)</strong></span> But if that telegraphic wire of faith be snapped, how can we obtain the promise? <br /><br />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. <br /><br />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? <br /><br />Oh then, Christian, watch well thy faith. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth." Mark 9:23 </strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">C.H. Spurgeon</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">"Faith, mighty faith, the promise sees, and looks to that alone,<br />Laughs at impossibilities, and cries, 'It shall be done!' "</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Queen Victoria said, <em>"We are not interested in the possibilities of defeat. They do not exist!" </em><br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8929</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">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 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Sunshine is essential</em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. 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. <br /><br />But though the branches need sunshine, </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">they must also have the darkness.</em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> 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. <br /><br />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 <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(John 15:3)</strong></span>, so escaping the iron pruning knife of affliction. <br /><br />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. <br /><br />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. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"My Father is the Husbandman."</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">F. B. Meyer</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8930</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>He that is not with Me is against Me; and he that gathereth not with Me scattereth abroad. </strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Matthew 12:30</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Make sure that you are not just </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>for</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Christ but first of all </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>with</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Him; your life hid </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>with</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Christ in God. Without Him, you can do nothing. Then, when death comes, you depart to be with Him. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For me to live is Christ and to die is gain ...</strong></span></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em style="font-size: 16px;">with</em></strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong> Christ which is far better." Philippians 1:21,23</strong></span>. <br /><br />When He returns, all sleep in Jesus He will bring <span style="color: blue;"><strong>with</strong></span> Him. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"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).</strong></span> "With them--With Him!"<br /><br />Our Lord said to the penitent thief, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Today shalt thou be with Me in paradise."</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Luke 23:43)</strong></span> Blessed <strong><em>with-ness</em></strong>! Make sure of it here and hereafter!</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">All The Days - Vance Havner.</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8931</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>FOR OUR CHILDREN<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">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. </span></strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">1 Samuel 1:27,28</span></strong><br /><br />F</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">ATHER, </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">hear us, we are praying,</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Hear the words our hearts are saying,</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We are praying for our children.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Keep them from the powers of evil,</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">From the secret, hidden peril,</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">From the whirlpool that would suck them,<br />From the treacherous quicksand, pluck them.<br /><br />From the worldling's hollow gladness<br />From the sting of faithless sadness<br />Holy Father, save our children.<br /><br />Through life's troubled waters steer them,<br />Through life's bitter battle cheer them,<br />Father, Father, be Thou near them.<br />Read the language of our longing,<br />Read the wordless pleadings thronging,<br />Holy Father, for our children. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">And wherever they may bide,<br />Lead them Home at evertide.</span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Amy Carmichael</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8932</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>PROPHESIES AND THEIR FULFILMENT<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">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.<br />2 Timothy 3:16,17<br /><br />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 </span></strong><br /><br />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. <br /><br />- He was born in Bethlehem (Micah 5:2). <u>Fulfilment</u> Luke 2:4-6. <br />- He was to be born of a virgin. Isaiah 7:14 <u>Fulfilment</u> Matthew 1:125. <br />- He was to be sold for thirty pieces of silver. Zechariah 11:12<br /><u>Fulfilment</u> Matthew 26:14-15.<br />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. <u>Fulfilment</u> Matthew 27:3-10). <br />-His hands and feet were to be pierced. Psalm 22:16 <u>Fulfilment</u> John 20:24-29. <br />- His side was to be pierced. Zechariah 12:10 <u>Fulfilment</u> John 19:34-37.<br />- His garments were to be divided among the soldiers, who crucified Him, and for His vesture they were to cast lots. Psalm 22:18. <u>Fulfilment</u> John 19:23,24.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">- They were to give Him gall and vinegar as He hung on the cross. Psalm 69:21. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>Fulfilment</u>. Matthew 27:34. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">- He was to be buried in a rich man's tomb. Isaiah 53:9. <u>Fulfilment</u> Matthew 27:57. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif">Why I Believe the Bible - A. J. Pollock</span></em></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8933</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">The Lord is far from the wicked: but He heareth the prayer of the righteous. Proverbs 15:29</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. <br /><br />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, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"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). </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">H. A. Ironside - Notes on Proverbs</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>Abide with me: fast falls the even tide; the darkness deepens; Lord, with me abide:<br />When other helpers fail, and comforts flee, Help of the helpless, O abide with me!<br /><br />Swift to its close ebbs out life's little day; Earth's joys grow dim, its glories pass away; <br />Change and decay in all around I see; O Thou who changes not, abide with me! <br /><br />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! <br /><br />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!</em></strong> <em><strong>H. F. Lyte</strong></em> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8934</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>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</strong></span><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Tis finished,"</strong></span> Jesus said, My Lord on Calvary bled,<br />Conscience may not condemn, white are my sins once red,<br />I now can enter in where foes can never tread,<br />Through Christ our living head.<br /><br /> Hark! God's beloved Son<br /> Cried, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Finished!"</strong></span> all is done.<br /> Oh! Praise and never cease<br /> The glory of His grace.<br /> Grace, matchless grace, so free:<br /> He won the victory. <br /> Hallelujah! 'tis done.<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Tis finished!"</strong></span>--Hark the strain, we're cleansed from every strain,<br />By blood we're sanctified, made holy, without blame,<br />Tell! Tell it! far and wide; Praise! Praise! His glorious Name,<br />JESUS, who for us died. <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Tis finished!"</strong></span> Jesus cried, and from His wounded side,<br />The blood and water flowed. Now God is satisfied. <br />No more of God afraid, by faith I'm justified. <br />Christ is my righteousness. <br /><br />Complete in Him we stand, all Death and Hell demand<br />Is fully satisfied. And now at God's right hand<br />Our risen Saviour pleads, For us He intercedes,<br />For us He ever lives. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif">(I. Lo - Translated from Chinese by Dorothy Dear)</span></strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8935</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">THE PROMISE OF THE FATHER<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">"He shall glorify Me: for He shall received of Mine, and shall show it unto you. John 16:14 </span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Blest, Thy Spirit's touch well known, to the heart's oft silent strings;<br />Wakening them to Thee alone, while my spirit of Thee sings. <br /><br />Bright the vision He doth bring, of Thyself before my sight; </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Fit eclipse of everything, every earthly joy or light. </span></strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. <br /><br />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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>It must not be forgotten that power does not act independently of our spiritual condition</u>. 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... <br /><br />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. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Footprints for Pilgrims - Edward Dennett </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8936</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>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. </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Luke reminds us He </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"was subject unto [Mary and Jospeh]".</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> This was another way of loveliness in Him as a child of twelve years. After the episode in the temple, and His gentle reproof, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Know ye not that I must be about My Father's business?"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> it is recorded that He went down with Joseph and Mary, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. 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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">When our Lord was <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"sitting in the midst of the doctors" (Luke 2:46)</strong></span> in the temple, He again like charity, did not behave Himself unseemly <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(1 Corinthians 13:5).</strong></span> He was <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"hearing them, and asking them questions."</strong></span> It does not say, He was teaching them or answering their questions. He did not pose as a teacher, though there dwelt in Him <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"all the treasures of wisdom knowledge"</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Colossians 2:3) "All that heard Him were astonished at His understanding and answers."</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He was the true speaker of <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Psalm 119:99, "I have more understanding than all my teachers: for Thy testimonies are my meditation."</strong></span> All His life, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Isaiah 50:4</strong></span> was true of Him: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He wakeneth morning by morning, He wakeneth mine ear to hear as the learned."</strong></span> Thus, His childhood and youth were passed in quiet, loving fellowship with God, hearing His voice and responding to His love. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">A Plant of Renown - Leonard Sheldrake</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8937</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Mercy and truth are met together; righteousness and peace have kissed each other. Psalm 85:10 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Lord, while our souls in faith repose upon Thy precious blood,<br />PEACE like an even river flows, and MERCY, like a flood. </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In this very impressive imagery, writer Mary Bowley contrasts </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Peace</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> and </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Mercy</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, suggesting these thoughts and scriptures to my soul: </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Mercy</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> 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: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>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."</strong></span> This was God's <strong>mercy</strong> at work. Sinners had to be destroyed, but in His <strong>mercy</strong>, He made provision for one righteous family to rise above the waters. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">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. "<span style="color: blue;"><strong>Thy mercy endureth forever." Psalm 136:1</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">After the Lord rose from the dead, offered the good news of salvation, and then ascended bodily to heaven, <strong>Peace</strong> 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. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Isaiah 66:12)</strong></span> says <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For thus sayeth the Lord, Behold I will extend Peace to her like a river."</strong></span> The prophet here was speaking of Israel's future, but we believers can take it for ourselves. The Lord said, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"My peace I leave with you, My peace I give unto you. (John 12:27)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Lorne Perry</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8938</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">- 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</span><br /><span style="font-size: 16px;">- 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. </span></strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">John 21:17.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 16px;">-And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. Ephesians 4:32</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. <br /><br /><br />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. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Christian Shepherd - Doug Nicolet</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8939</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>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.</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Nathan speaks but one phrase, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Thou art the man,"</strong></span> to convict David. David too says but one thing in God's presence: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I have sinned against the Lord."</strong></span> 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: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I have sinned." </strong></span>but what difference does that make when this sin has already been brought to light? David says: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I have sinned against Jehovah,"</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"> not: I have sinned against Uriah or against Uriah's wife. </span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"I have sinned,"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> 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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Having produced this through conviction of sin, God does not keep his poor guilty servant waiting. Again He speaks but one sentence to him: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Jehovah has also put away thy sin."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> He does not say: Jehovah will, but rather </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"has put away thy sin."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> 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. <u>That is what we find at the cross of Christ</u>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Then Nathan tells David: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"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)</strong></span> Such is the consequence that the world draw from our faults. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif">2 Samuel - H. L. Rossier</span></strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> </span><br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8941</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 17px;"><strong>TRUST, WORK and WATCH</strong></span></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">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. </span></strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">Matthew 6:34</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 14px;">(Each day hath enough trouble of its own.</span></em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">)<br /><br />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. <br /><br />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.<br /><br />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. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">William Sloan</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8942</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord's death till He come. </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>1 Corinthians 11:26</strong></span><br /><br />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 </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">backward</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> to the cross and see our Saviour giving His life for us. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Secondly, we are to look <strong>forward</strong> and anticipate His return, when we will not need the emblems anymore, but will see Him, be with Him, and be like Him. <br /><br />Again, we are to look <strong>upward</strong> to our great High Priest who is ever able to take our spiritual sacrifices and make them acceptable to God. <br /><br />Finally, we are to look <strong>inward</strong>. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"let a man examine himself" (v 28)</strong></span>, and then come with a pure heart to this holy feast. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Harold G. Smith</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">On Calvary's brow my Saviour died,<br />'Twas there my Lord was crucified:<br />'Twas on the cross He bled for me,<br />And purchased there my pardon free.</span><span style="font-size: 16px;"></span><br /><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">W. M. K Darwood </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8943</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>FRUIT OF THE LAND</em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">How long are ye slack to possess the land which the Lord God of your fathers giveth you? Joshua 18:3. </span></strong><br /><br />We ought not stand on Jordan's stormy banks casting a wishful eye to Canaan's fair and happy land, where our possessions lie. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Dwelling in Beulah Land"</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Isaiah 62:4)</strong></span> is possible here and now. Living in Canaan may be a <em><strong>fact</strong></em> today. <br /><br />It is also a <em><strong>fight</strong></em>, the fight of faith, as we follow our Joshua, the Captain of our salvation and <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"possess our possessions." </strong></span><br /><br />And there will be <em><strong>fruit</strong></em>. It is today, said the spies. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"It floweth with milk and honey; and this is the fruit of it." (Numbers 13:27). </strong></span><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"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)</strong></span>. <br /><br />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 <strong><em>fact</em></strong> when from the <em><strong>fight</strong></em> you bring the <em><strong>fruit</strong></em>. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Day by Day with Vance Havner</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8944</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Sorrow is better than laughter: for by the sadness of the countenance the heart is made better. Ecclesiastes 7:3 </strong></span><br /><br />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." <br /><br />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. <br /><br />"It looks like gold," he said. It was gold. The flood which had beggared him made him rich. So it is ofttimes in life. </span><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">H. C. Trumbull </span></strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N. J. Hiebert - 8945</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>DELIVERANCE FROM WORRY</em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>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 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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 <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"who doeth all things well." (Matthew 7:37)</strong></span> Worry and anxiety accuse Him. <br /><br />Martha did that when she was encumbered with much service and then said to Him, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Doest Thou not care?" (Luke 10:40).</strong></span> 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. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">The Work of Christ - A. C. Gaebelein</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Simply trusting every day, trusting through a stormy way;<br />Even when my faith is small, trusting Jesus, that is all.<br /><br />Brightly doth His spirit shine into this poor heart of mine;<br />While He leads I cannot fall; trusting Jesus, that is all.<br /><br />Singing if my way is clear; praying if the path be drear;<br />If in danger, for Him call; trusting Jesus, that is all.<br /><br />Trusting Him while life shall last, trusting Him till earth be past; <br />Till within the jasper wall: trusting Jesus that is all.</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><em><strong>E. Page</strong></em></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8946</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>In the Lord put I my trust: how say ye to my soul, Flee as a bird to your mountain? Psalm 11:1 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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:</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">- They get a boundless view and more easily find their points of direction.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">-They are out of the flight path of birds of prey and clear of obstacles.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">-Their flight is accelerated due to the greater purification of the atmosphere.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The sweetest songs of David were born in the storms of his life. The shepherd boy was called <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"the sweet psalmist of Israel" (2 Samuel 3:1).</strong></span> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Streams in the Desert</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8947</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>I sleep but my heart waketh. Song of Solomon 5:2 </strong></span><br /><br />By far the greater proportion of Christians are more occupied with themselves, and their changeable feelings, than with the word of God.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Song of Solomon - Andrew Miller </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Have I an object, Lord, below which would divide my heart with Thee; Which would divert its even flow in answer to Thy constancy? </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><strong>Oh teach me quickly to return, and cause my heart afresh to burn. <br /><br />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. <br /><br />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.</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif">G. W. Frazer<span style="font-size: 13px;"> </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8948</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">SAVIOUR OR JUDGE?</strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue; font-size: 16px;">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 </span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">- When one has even a glimmer of the tremendous difference between having Christ and being<br />- without Christ;<br />- when one gets but one shuddering glimpse of what eternity is,<br />- and what it must mean, as well as what it may mean, without Christ:<br />- 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<br />- 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! <br /><br />"People must have entertainment," they urge. I do not find that <em><strong>"must"</strong></em> in the Bible, but I do find, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"We <u>must</u> all stand before the judgment seat of Christ." (Romans 14:10)</strong></span> 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.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 14px;">Will you not sow that song? Will you not drop that word<br />Till the coldest heart be stirred from their slumber deep and long?<br />Then your harvest shall abound with rejoicing full and grand,<br />Where the heavenly summer-songs resound,<br />And the fruits of faithful work are found, in the glorious Holy Land. </span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Opened Treasures - Frances R. Havergal </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8949</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>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 <br /><br />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 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Duncan Maxwell</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">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. <br /><br />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. </span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">That bitter cup--love drank it up; left but the love for me. <br /><br />Jehovah lifted up His rod--O Christ, it fell on Thee!<br />Thou wast forsaken of Thy God; no distance now for me.<br />Thy blood beneath that rod has flowed: Thy bruising healeth me. <br /><br />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. <br /><br />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.</span></strong></em> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Mrs. Cousins </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8950</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>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</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">(<strong>not each having-the-eye-on the (interests) of themselves, but each on the (interests) of others also)</strong></span></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>.</strong> "<span style="color: blue;"><u><strong><em>But</em></strong></u></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>in lowly-mindedness esteeming one another more excellent than themselves."</strong></span><br /><br />The word <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"But"</strong></span> is a strong word, drawing our earnest attention to the very great contrast between lowly-mindedness and party-spirit or vain-glory. <br /><br />The words <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"one another"</strong></span> 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 <strong>mind</strong>, or <strong>minding</strong>; and in the word <strong>"Lowly-mindedness."</strong> we find this again. In <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Ephesians 4:2</strong></span> we find exactly the same word as one of the bonds which bind the saints together. There it is inked with <strong>"meekness."</strong> <br /><br />Years ago I was walking with Mr. Willie Crossly, when suddenly he asked: "Christopher, <u>What is the difference between lowliness (or, lowly-mindedness) and meekness?</u>" I had to reply, "I don't know, Mr. Crossly." He said, I will tell you. <u>Lowly-mindedness will never give offence. Meekness will never take offence</u>." Oh, that we each had more of these two qualities! How much strife and contention would be avoided! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Sacrifices of Joy - G. Christopher Willis</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8951</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>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 </strong></span><br /><br />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 <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Without Me ye can do nothing." (John 15:5)</strong></span> <br /><br />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 <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"midnight"</strong></span> in our soul, <strong>"the dark night of the soul"</strong>, old writers called it. <br /><br />But we have a God to Whom we can go at any minute, the weakest minute, the darkest minute, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"at midnight"</strong></span>. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"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)</strong></span> <br /><br />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-- <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He will rise and give him as many as he needeth." (Luke 11:5-8)</strong></span> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"> Edges of His Ways - Amy Carmichael</span></em></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8952</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 28</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>THE CLEAR EYE OF FAITH</em><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 15px;"><span style="color: blue;">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. </span></span></strong></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><span style="color: blue;">Mark 10:46,47</span></span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"> </span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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 </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Acts 17:27)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Lord"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> he says, addressing the Lord both reverently and fervently, </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"I want to see."</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />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. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Stephen Campbell</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8953</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>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 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Before having received this teaching from the mouth of godly Abigail <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(1 Samuel 25:30-31)</strong></span>, 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: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Gird Thy sword upon Thy thigh, O Mighty One with Thy glory and Thy majesty." (Psalm 45:3) </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">but as long as David was a stranger in his inheritance it was still the time of grace. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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--</span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Grace in person</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, 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.<br /><br />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) </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">1 Samuel - H. L. Rossier</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8954</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 30</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>GOING TO GOD</strong></em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>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</strong></span> <br /><br />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. <br /><br />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. <br /><br />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: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"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)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Songs of My Soul - W. Phillip Keller</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8955</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 31</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>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.<br /></strong></span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Deuteronomy 8:2 </strong></span><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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 </span><strong style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">knowledge of God</strong><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. <br /><br />As Moses said to Israel <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(vv. 3-4) "He humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger, </strong></span><strong>[not that you might be driven to despair, but that He might feed]</strong><span style="color: blue;"><strong> thee with manna...Thy clothing grew not old upon thee, neither did thy foot swell, these forty years." </strong></span></span><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Thou shalt remember!"</strong></span> 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! <br /><br />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. </span><em style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">C. H. Mackintosh </span></span></strong></em><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8956</span></div></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>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 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">What an exciting thought-- </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"When the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth His Son."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">For centuries, which grew darker and darker, the faithful people of God waited for the promised Messiah who would reign, according to </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Isaiah 9:6, "Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Isaiah goes on to say that </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"of the increase of His government and of peace there shall be no end." </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He will reign with judgment and with righteousness, from henceforth even forever."</strong></span> But when would He come? When would be this </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"fullness of the time"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">? 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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"The fullness of the time"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> has come! And all who believe <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"God sent His Son"</strong></span>. <br /><br />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 <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Philippians 4:7)</strong></span>. We can enjoy Him now if we recognize and own Him as the One sent to redeem us from our sins. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br />L.J. Ondrejack </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8957</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>For the builders, every one had his sword girded by his side, and so builded. Nehemiah 4:18 </strong></span><span style="color: lightblue;"><strong> </strong></span><br /><br />An evangelist came for a week's work. "Please will you lend me a Bible?" he asked.<br />"Haven't you brought your own?" <br />"No, I thought I could borrow one." <br /><br />Compare that with Nehemiah's builders. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Every one had his sword girded by his side."</strong></span> 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. <br /><br />Our sword, of course, is a spiritual thing; it is the word of God, as <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Ephesians 6:17</strong></span> tells us. Let us never go anywhere without it. Whatever we don't take, let us take that. <br /><br />Now for today, and the foes of today, here is a great word:<span style="color: blue;"><strong> Psalm 144:1 "Blessed be the Lord my strength, which teacheth my hands to war, and my fingers to fight.</strong></span><br /><br />He will teach us how to use our sword today. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Whispers of His Power - Amy Carmichael. </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8958</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">September 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">THE IMPOTENCE OF WORLDLY WISDOM<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">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</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"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)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">DANIEL - Godly Living in a Hostile World - William Burnett. </span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8959</span></span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-1170191573582071122022-07-01T07:57:00.039-04:002022-08-14T07:13:06.335-04:00Gems from July 2022<p><strong style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">And He said unto them, with desire I have desired to eat this passover with you before I suffer. Luke 22:15 </span></strong></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The storm was gathering outside, preparations for his arrest and condemnation and crucifixion were being rapidly completed, and Judas, who knew all about it, sat there at the table with Him, with the price of his treachery in his bag. And Jesus knew all this. Never before had the powers of darkness been so stirred; this was the supreme hour; men were but the puppets on the stage, guilty puppets, playing their part with willing hearts; but behind them were the forces of evil determined to crush that one lowly Man, and to finish forever at one blow their long fight with God--and Jesus knew this. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But His disciples, and we, were His one thought. They loved Him, but He loved them more; and it was His desire, not theirs, that had brought them together for that sacred occasion. The Passover Feast commemorated the deliverance of Israel from Egypt; the lamb roasted with fire upon which they fed year by year turned the eye of faith forward to His coming. And now He had come, and there He sat to share with them that meal which spoke so eloquently of what He would do. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It was at the Passover Feast that He instituted the supper, which we know and love as </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>the Lord's Supper</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(1 Corinthians 11)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; and this He did entirely in view of His absence from them. He was to be no more with them, and they would miss His blessed company; and the measure in which they would miss Him would show the measure of their love to Him. <br /><br />And so it is now: the Lord is not here; He has no place in the world; its politics, social circles, pleasures, and schemes have no room for Him. Are we conscious of His absence, and of this? If we love Him we shall miss Him and shall long for the time when He shall come to take us to His Father's house, that where He is we may be also. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. T, Mawson</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8893</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night. </strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Exodus 13:21 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">What is of importance to notice here is that the people of Israel were divinely guided on their march. He who selected their path guided them in it, went before them in the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night, in all their wanderings. These gracious symbols of His presence He never took from them as long as they were in the wilderness. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>This is only an illustration of the truth, that the Lord is ever the guide of His people</u>. He who leads them out of Egypt may ever be seen before them in the path on which they have entered. He never says, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Go"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; but His word is always, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Follow Me."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> He Himself is the Way, as well as the Truth and the Life </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(John 14:6)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It is quite true that we have not the visible guidance which the children of Israel enjoyed; but it is no less discernible and certain to the spiritual eye. The Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Psalm 119:105)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. It is interesting to remark that there was no such guidance in Egypt or in the land. <br /><br />This brings out the important truth, that it is only in the wilderness that the indication of a way is needed. And there it is in His tenderness and mercy that the Lord leads His own, showing them the way in which they should walk, where they should rest, and when they should march, leaving nothing to them, but Himself undertaking all for them, only requiring that their eyes should be kept fixed on their Guide. Happy are the people who are thus led, and who are made willing to follow, who by grace are enabled to say, <strong><em>"Only Thou our Leader be, and we still will follow Thee."</em></strong> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Edward Dennett</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8894</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">My times are in Thy hands. Psalm 31:15 - Rejoice, with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Be kindly affectioned one to another...in honour preferring one another. Romans12: 10,15 - Look not ever man on his own things [interests] but every man also on the things [interests] of others. Philippians 2:4</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Father, I know that all my life is portioned out for me,<br />And the changes that are sure to come I do not fear to see;<br />But I ask Thee for a patient mind, intent on pleasing Thee.<br /><br />I ask Thee for a thoughtful love, through constant watching, wise, To meet the glad with joyful smiles, and wipe the weeping eyes; A heart at leisure from itself, to soothe and sympathize.<br /><br />I ask Thee for the daily strength to none that ask denied,<br />A mind to blend with outward life while keeping at Thy side; <br />Content to fill a little space if Thou be glorified.<br /><br />In service which Thy love appoints there are no bonds for me; My inmost heart is taught the truth that makes Thy children free: A life of self renouncing love is one of liberty.<br /><br />Wherever in the world I am, in whatsoever estate,<br />I have a fellowship with hearts to keep and cultivate;<br />And a work of lowly love to do for the Lord on whom I wait.<br /><br />So I ask Thee for daily strength to none that ask denied, And a mind to blend with outward life while keeping at Thy side; Content to fill a little space if Thou be glorified.<br /><br />There are briars besetting every path that call for patient care;<br />There is a cross in every lot, and an earnest need for prayer;<br />But a lowly heart that leans on Thee is happy anywhere. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Anna Waring 1823-1910</span></span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8895</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>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 thy heart. Deuteronomy 8:2 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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 </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">ignorance of self</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, whereas it really depends on our Knowledge of God. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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), <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger</strong></span> [not that you might be driven to despair, but that he might feed] <span style="color: blue;"><strong>thee with the manna...thy raiment waxed (grew) not old upon thee, neither did thy foot swell, these forty years."</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Thou shalt remember!"</strong></span> 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! <br /><br />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. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif">C. H. Mackintosh</span></strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8896</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And the child Samuel ministered unto the Lord before Eli...the Lord called Samuel (v.4)...the Lord called yet again, Samuel (v.6)...Samuel did not yet know the Lord, neither was the word of the Lord yet revealed unto him (v.7)...the Lord called Samuel again the third time (v.8)...Eli said unto Samuel, Go, lie down: and it shall be, if He call thee, that thou shalt say, Speak, Lord; for thy servant heareth...(v.9)</strong></span>.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">In chapter 1, Eli lacked discernment; in chapter 2, he lacked the moral courage to separate himself from evil; here, his eyes are dim and he cannot see, nevertheless the lamp of God had not yet gone out--a striking image of his moral condition. And what is more, this leader of the simple proves himself to be dull of understanding. It is not until the third call that <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Eli perceived that Jehovah was calling the boy." </strong></span>Yes, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"dull of hearing"</strong></span>: that is exactly what he had </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong>become</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Samuel was simply </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><em>ignorant</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">, which is a thousand times better. </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">When there is godliness, God remedies ignorance</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">. If the new born babe desires <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"the pure milk of the word,"</strong></span> he will not be refused. Here on earth we know only in part and we will never know otherwise than only in part. That we are not responsible for; but it is a question of growth: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"that by it ye may grow" (1 Peter 2:2)</strong></span>, and our responsibility is to seek, to this end, spiritual food. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Here we find a feature of Eli's spiritual weakening: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"For the iniquity which he hath known, because his sons made themselves vile, and he restrained them not" (v13)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">. Eli knew the evil, and he had </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong>authority</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> to repress it in his sons, but he did not use it. What profit was it to him that this authority had been entrusted to him by God? How often the spiritual weakening of the head of a family stems from his slackness when he should have maintained order and discipline in the sphere where his authority was meant to function? This is a great cause of ruin, like Lot, Eli was <em><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"distressed with abandoned conversation</strong></span> </em>[<em>manner of life</em>] <span style="color: blue;"><em><strong>of the godless.</strong>"</em></span> but like him, he displayed a sad forgetfulness of what was due to the Lord's holiness. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">1 Samuel - H. L. Rossier</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8897</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><u>THE</u> <u>REJECTED</u> <u>ONE</u> <u>WILL</u> <u>GOVERN</u> <u>THE</u> <u>EARTH</u></em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">And Joseph said unto Pharaoh...God hath showed Pharaoh what He is about to do. Genesis 41:25</span> </strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The wise men of Egypt doubtless had their theories as to the future of Egypt, and shaped their policies and made their plans in accordance with their own ideas--even as today the leaders, of this world, whether political, religious, intellectual, capitalist, or labour, have their various theories of future government of the world. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">But there is one thing in common--all the theories of men leave God out of God's world. Men will not own God as <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"the God of heaven and <u style="font-size: 16px;"><em>earth</em></u></strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>."</strong></span> God is welcome to heaven, about which man knows nothing and cares less, but as for earth, the center of all man's affections, it must be governed according to man's ideal which enthrones the will of man as supreme to the total exclusion of God. </span><br /><br />Nevertheless, God has His plans for the future government of the world, and of these plans He has not left us in ignorance. In Pharaoh's day, He showed Pharaoh by a dream what He was about to do. In our day He has shown us still more plainly by direct revelation what He is about to do. God was going to govern Egypt by one who had been rejected by his brethren, cast out, and forgotten by the world. And God has disclosed to us that according to His good pleasure He has purposed to head up all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and which are on <strong><em>earth</em></strong> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Ephesians 1:10)</strong></span>. <br /><br />The One, who, when He entered the world, found <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"no room"</strong></span> even in a wayside inn, who, as He passed through it, was <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"a stranger in the land"</strong></span> and a <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"wayfaring man"</strong></span> with not where to lay His head, who when He went out of the world was nailed to a cross between two thieves, is the One of whom God has decreed, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"The government shall be upon His shoulder" (Isaiah 9:6)</strong></span>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Hamilton Smith</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8898</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In my Father's house are many mansions...I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also. John 14:1-3 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;">Louisa and her husband were relaxing with their four-year old daughter on Long Island beach when they heard a desperate child's cry. A boy was drowning, and Louisa's husband tried to rescue him. In the process, the boy pulled Mr. Stead under water, and both drowned as Louisa and her daughter watched. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;">Louisa Stead was left with no means of support except the Lord. She and her daughter experienced dire poverty. One morning, when she had neither funds nor food for the day, she opened the front door and found that someone had left food and money on her doorstep. That day she wrote this hymn. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;">Sometimes we voice platitudes about our Christianity--glibly quoting Scripture and singing songs about trusting Jesus. For Stead, there was nothing glib or superficial about it. Her hymn remains a timeless reminder and comfort to all believers who have experienced this same truth: </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;">"Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him; how I've proved Him o'er and o'er! Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus! O for grace to trust Him more.</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;">" </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em>'Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus, Just to take Him at His Word,<br />Just to rest upon His promise, Just to know "Thus saith the Lord."<br /><br />O how sweet to trust in Jesus, Just to trust His cleansing blood,<br />Just in simple faith to plunge me 'neath the healing, cleansing flood!<br /><br />Yes, 'tis sweet to trust in Jesus, Just from sin and self to cease.<br />Just from Jesus simply taking life and rest and joy and peace. <br /><br />I'm so glad I learned to trust Him, Precious Jesus, Saviour, Friend;<br />And I know that He is with me, will be with me to the end.</em><br /><br />REFRAIN</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;">: </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Jesus, Jesus, how I trust Him! How I've proved Him o'er and o'er!<br />Jesus, Jesus, precious Jesus! O for grace to trust Him more! <span style="font-size: 13px;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif">Louisa Stead 1850-1917) </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8899</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>The Lord hath His way in the whirlwind and in the storm. Nahum 1:3</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The fiercest wind that may blow on me is held in the hollow of His hand. Behind what seems cruel chance, there is the love so wise and wisdom so loving of our God.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 15px;">If God can send a storm through space; and dot with trees the mountain's face. If He the sparrow's course can trace, what can He do for you?<br /><br />If God can hang the stars on high, can paint the clouds that drift on by, Can send the sun across the sky, what can He do for you? <br /><br />If God can send us sunny days, and nature from her slumber raise Till song birds lift their notes of praise, what can He do for you?<br /><br />If God can do these many things, can count each little bird that sings, Control the universe that swings, what can He do for you? <br /><br />If God can bring sweet peace to me and to my soul bring liberty. By Christ Who hung upon the tree, this He can do for you.</span></em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">G. E. Wagoner</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">God's eye has never yet become dimmed with age; His ear has never yet become dulled with the years; His arms have never yet been wanting in strength, nor have His footsteps ever faltered. He is not changed; He is still the same immortal, immutable, invincible God, from all the ages. He makes a commitment of Himself to me. What a gift, what an offering, what a measureless, boundless condescension of the infinite God to give Himself. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">(Unknown) </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8900</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. Colossians 3:16 </strong></span><br /><br />We are to teach and counsel (and at times even admonish) one another <strong>using Scriptures</strong>. More of us need to get involved in such counselling! But there are three important instructions that Scripture imposes on us before we run around telling others what the Bible says they should not do:<br /><br />1. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Let the Word...dwell in you richly."</strong></span> We cannot use the Bible very effectively to help a fellow believer if we do not know what it says! If we are honest, we must admit that reading a brief devotional "thought for the day" or quickly scanning a few Christian self-help or how-to books cannot really qualify us as people in whom the Word dwells richly. <br /><br />2. We must "counsel ourselves" before we try to counsel others! Remember that our Lord Jesus said that we should remove the <span style="color: blue;"><strong>beam</strong></span> (log) from our own eye first--before we try to take the <span style="color: blue;"><strong>mote</strong></span> (speck) out of our brother's eye (see <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Matthew 7:3-5</strong></span>). <br /><br />3. Love must accompany our counsel and advice given from God's word. <br /><br />Verse 16 also indicates that we are to relate to one another with <span style="color: blue;"><strong>singing</strong></span>, not to use our talents for the Lord (we may not be able to sing well) but rather to sing together because of our unity and love for one another in the Lord. It is hard for us to stay uptight with other Christians when we sing together. Singing spiritual songs together tends to remove hostilities--especially when we sing with "<span style="color: blue;"><strong>grace in our hearts to the Lord.</strong></span>" <br /><br />Did you ever try to tear down a fellow-believer immediately after singing together "<strong>How Great Thou Art!</strong>"? </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">D. R. Reid - The Lord is Near 1995</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8901</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Jesus answered and said unto him, (Judas, not Iscariot) if a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him. John 14:23 </strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br /> A true life of praise to God implies three important things:</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">(1) I acknowledge He is God, very God, and that He arranges all my affairs with only my best interests in mind because He loves me. This applies even when things appear to my view to be amiss. <br /><br />(2) I accept everything that happens along life's path as His provision. This is the path of peace. I do not fight life, trying to change everything or everyone. They, instead, are accepted and allowed to modify and mature me. <br /><br />(3) I approve of what God has done and how He does it. This sets His Spirit free to do abundantly more than I can ever hope or imagine. I praise Him that it is He who is at work in me both to will and to do His good pleasure.<span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Ephesians 3:16-21; Philippians 2:12-15)</strong></span>. This is to walk with God in peace, power, and praise. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;"> Songs of My Soul - W. Phillip Keller </span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 13px;">The path that I have trod has brought me nearer God, though oft it led through sorrows gates --Though not the way I'd choose, in my way I might lose the joy that yet for me awaits.</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><strong>The cross that I must bear, if His "well done" I'd share, is not the cross that I would take; But since on me 'tis laid, by grace I'm not afraid, for He a way will surely make. </strong><br /><br /><strong>Submission to the will of Him who guides me still, is surety of His love revealed; My soul shall rise above this world in which we move; I conquer only where I yield. </strong><br /><br /><strong>Not what I wish to be, nor where I wish to go, for who am I that I should choose my way?<br />The Lord shall choose for me, 'tis better far, I know, so let Him bid me go or stay. </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><em>C. Miles</em></span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8902</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>But now, O LORD, Thou art our Father; we are the clay, and Thou our potter; and we all are the work of Thy hand." Isaiah 64:8 </strong></span><br /><br />The Potter has the power, the knowledge and the skill,<br />To fashion every vessel, according to His will. <br /><br />The pattern and the purpose, of every vessel planned,<br />Its usefulness and beauty are in the potter's hand. <br /><br />The clay makes no decision, has no will of its own,<br />But yielded to the potter, His pattern is made known.<br /><br />And thus the Master Potter, our service has outlined;<br />He asks us to be yielded unto His Will and Mind. <br /><br />His purpose to acknowledge, to listen to His voice,<br />To let Him plan our pathway, according to His choice.<br /><br />A vessel marred and broken, we may not understand,<br />But all can be committed unto the Potter's hand. <br /><br />Our Father's way is perfect, His thought toward us is love;<br />He's fashioning and molding, for life with Him above. <br /><br />To trust the Heavenly Potter, and let Him mold the clay,<br />Brings joy, and peace, and blessing, and happiness alway. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Anon</span></span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8903</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>There was given to me (Paul) a thorn in the flesh, the messenger of Satan. 2 Corinthians 12:7 <br /><br />The Lord said unto Satan, Behold, all that he hath is in thy power. Job 1:12.</strong></span> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em>[Satan said]</em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Put forth <em>Thine</em> hand now (v.2:5). And the Lord said unto Satan, behold he is in thine hand. (v.2:6) So Satan . . . smote Job (v.2:7). When He hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold. (v.23:10)<br /><br />Father, if Thou be willing . . . nevertheless not My will, but Thine, be done. (Luke 22:42) This is your hour, and the power of darkness. (v.22:53). </strong></span><br /><br />As a child I puzzled over the fact that though all </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Christian people spoke of pain as sent from God, they did all that in them lay to avoid it, or if it came, to get rid of it. Doctors who helped them to do so were prayed for as very special servants of God. And yet they were working against the very thing that God had sent. <br /><br />It was very puzzling, and I can remember the delight of finding the words, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"An enemy hath done this (Matthew 13:28)</strong></span>, and feeling that they must apply to all that hurt and wounded either spirit or body. And yet there was a mystery somewhere. And it was not explained. <br /><br />I think now that it never will be explained until we stand in the light of God; but these words from Paul and Job and our Lord's own prayer help us to understand. All pain, all ill, is a messenger from Satan, and yet the thorn was a gift. The Spirit of God takes care to let us know that it was Satan's hand, not the Father's, that hurt Job. And yet the cruel hand was turned into a crucible, and the fire refined the gold. The power of darkness crucified the Lord of glory. But Love won on Calvary. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Whispers of His Power - Amy Carmichael.</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8904</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Arise, and go down to the potter's house, and there I will cause thee to hear my words. </strong></span></span></span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Jeremiah 18:2 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Many times in our lives events and circumstances that seem particularly hard or discouraging are allowed by our wise and loving Father. No doubt each have at times wondered how it is that divine love could order such painful trials and testings--what possible purpose could be served by such difficulties and sorrows? Broken dreams, broken hearts, failure as husbands and wives, as parents, as children, as brethren in Christ--Oh! how despondent thoughts flood in at these times! </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Perhaps one has longed to serve the Lord Jesus effectively--desiring that this life would count for something and that there might be the joy of receiving His approval in that coming day of glory. Then the dark, menacing clouds of doubt because of past all too frequent and miserable failures loom on the horizon and once again the storm of discouragement breaks on you. Then come the flood of questions: "How could He ever use me after how badly I have failed Him? He can't trust me to do anything for Him again so why not just give up."</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Maybe you're seeking to serve the Lord, feeling very clear that He has led you into a particular ministry, only to find such a host of trials and pressures that it now seems you must surely have missed His mind about entering that service.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">At these moments it seems almost impossible to be able to say in that confidence of faith: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I can do all things through Christ, which strengtheneth me" (Philippians 4:13).</strong></span> Beset with the howling winds of discouragement, we can easily fail to hear His tender and comforting words; <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I the LORD thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee" (Isaiah 41:13).</strong></span> If we visit the Potter's House there we will watch Him at work, seeking to learn how it is that a lump of sticky, apparently useless mud is turned into a beautiful, valuable piece of pottery--a vessel, meet for the Master's use <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(2 Timothy 2:21)</strong></span>. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">In The Potter's Hands - D. Nicolet</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8905</span></span></span></div></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>The times of the Gentiles. Luke 21:24 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Daniel chapter 2 is the story of a crisis in Babylon. Nebuchadnezzar had a dream, but upon waking, he could not remember what the dream had been. He then made completely unreasonable demands on his wise men. He wanted them to tell him what he had dreamed, and also its meaning. He told them that failure would incur death, but that success would bring gifts, rewards and great honour. Not unexpectedly, his wise men said, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"There is none other that can show it before the king, except the gods, whose dwelling is not with flesh" (Daniel 2:11) </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Subsequent to this confession of failure, the king gave the order to execute all of the wise men, and of course this included Daniel and his friends. On the surface of things, this was a crisis of unprecedented proportions. Daniel and his friends were at risk, but what followed shows how we can use times of crisis to advantage, and find opportunities to glorify God. Daniel and his friends took up the challenge of the king since they knew <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"the God, whose dwelling was not with flesh."</strong></span> They were confident that God could reveal the thing to them, thus saving their lives, and the lives of the wise men of Babylon. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">How do we view the crises that arise in our lives? Too often crises propel us into uncontrolled panic. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"He that believeth shall not make haste" (panic) (Isiah 28:16)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. Daniel believed that God was sovereign, and that this crisis was a time of opportunity rather than a disaster, and he did not panic. Daniel believed that God could over-rule the insanity of an unreasonable yet powerful king, bringing deliverance to them, and glory to God.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Similarly, our world today seems to be spinning out of control, and the prediction of Scripture of <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"men's hearts failing them for fear" (Luke 21:26)</strong></span> is evident all around. How do we rest in the confidence that our God is sovereign, and that these crises could induce a period of unprecedented opportunity to present the gospel as the only answer to man's fundamental need? As men see their whole material world collapsing, may we be like Daniel, bringing words of confidence and assurance that God can be trusted to deliver the one who trusts in Him. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif">Daniel - Willian Burnett</span></em></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8906</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Even Christ our passover is sacrificed for us: Therefore let us keep the feast with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth. 1 Corinthians 5:7-8 </strong></span><br /><br />Let us look a little at the circumstances which accompanied the Passover. The blood on the lintel formed the simple basis of the Israelite's security. But there are other points of deep interest into which the spiritual mind can enter with much profit.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">First, the lamb was eaten roasted with fire. No other process could have told out the significant principle with the same emphasis. The action of fire upon the body of the lamb gave expression to the intensity of Christ's sufferings when He exposed His blessed person to the full action of Jehovah's wrath against sin. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It was one thing to rest in the security of the shed blood and another thing to eat of the </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"lamb roast with fire."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Hence the apostle says, </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"That I may know Him, and the power of His resurrection, and the fellowship of His sufferings."</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Here was the desire of one who had already rested in the blood.<br /><br />The fellowship of Christ's sufferings is but little known even by those who are resting in Christ's blood; were it more entered into, there would be far more depth of experience and power of Christian action than there is. We are too ready to rest content with knowing the value of the blood, without feeding on the Lamb, and thus we lose much of our privilege of personal fellowship with Jesus.<br /><br />It is not merely the work which has been done, but the One who has done it. The former is properly the object for the sinner, the later for the saint; and the more the saint is enabled to enter into what Christ is, the more perfect will be his repose in His work. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>C. H. Mackintosh</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">This joy was set before Thee, this armed Thy suffering heart.<br />That we should share Thy glory, and with Thee have our part</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. G. Deck</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8907</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Thou, O Lord, remainest forever. Lamentations 5:19 <br />Therefore I will look unto the Lord. Micah 7:7</strong></span><br /><br />If a man could not turn to God in the hour of his deepest need and come boldly to the throne of grace for help in such a time, then the gospel would mean nothing and Christian experience a delusion. I do not find David seeking relief from his troubles in some ungodly diversion. <br /><br />Our Lord set no example of turning to the world in the hour of trial. He sad, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"In the world ye shall have </strong></span></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>tribulation [pressure]: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world." (John 16:33)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />The New Testament does not advocate relaxing one's conduct to let the hair down when in distress. There should be healthy and happy enjoyment of life's innocent pleasures indeed, but we need not call in Satan under the guise of a specialist or renounce our holy walk because our nerves have failed. The twenty-Third Psalm has comforted more distraught, sick souls than all the clever tricks offered by the world, the flesh, and the devil. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Our God is a very present help in trouble and just when we need Him Jesus is near. I remember one bleak evening during these weeks of testing when I came into a lonely motel room where I was to stay while I preached for a few days. The Bible lay open on the table at Psalm 42 and this precious verse: <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in Me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance. (Psalm 42:5)</strong></span>. Call that coincidence if you will but I call it Providence! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Though I Walk Through the theValley - Vance Havner</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8908</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice. Philippians 4:4</strong></span> <br /><br />"It is worthy of note that the salutation <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Rejoice"</strong></span> is really the Greek salutation. The Hebrew salutation is <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Peace!"</strong></span> The clear, cheerful, world-enjoying temper of the Greek embodies itself in the first; he could desire nothing better or higher for himself, nor wish it for his friend, than to have <span style="color: blue;"><strong>joy</strong></span> in his life.<br /><br />But the Hebrew had a deeper longing within him, and one which finds utterance in his word, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Peace"</strong></span>. It is not hard to perceive why this latter people (Hebrew) should have been chosen as the first bearers of that truth which indeed enables men truly to <span style="color: blue;"><em><strong>rejoice</strong></em></span>, but only through first bringing <span style="color: blue;"><strong>peace</strong></span>; nor why from them the word of life should first go forth." </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><strong>(Trench - Study of Words)</strong></span></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It is possible that the lightness with which Judas performed his dark deed of betrayal, and the thought of the thirty pieces of silver that he had gained, caused him to use the lighter Greek salutation (rejoice) rather than his own native, and deeper salutation, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Peace!"</strong></span> But our Lord, having made peace through the blood of His cross, and having won true joy for His own; He can greet them first of all by saying, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Ch a i r e t e: Rejoice!"</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But the same day at even Jesus Himself stood in the midst of His disciples, and saith unto them, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Peace be upon you."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> And when He had so said He showed unto them His hands and His side. Then were the disciples glad when they had seen the Lord. Then saith Jesus to them again, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Peace be unto you."</strong></span> And so, through that mighty victory, our Lord has won both salutations for us: both Greek and Hebrew: </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 18px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Chairete . . . . Rejoice Ye!" <br />"Eirene humin . . . . Peace be unto you!"</strong></span> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><em><strong>Hid Treasures - G. C. Willis </strong></em></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8909</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>1 Thessalonians 5:16</strong></span><br /><br />In earlier days of news reporting, a breaking news event drew many reporters to the scene, all awaiting some official word. Then they had to quickly phone their report in to the City Desk at their newspaper. For the smart ones, the number one task was to search out a rather scarce telephone and open up a direct line. Then they recruited and paid someone to simply talk on the line to keep the operator from pulling the plug on an idle phone. They could say or read anything just as long as communication continued until the story broke. <br /><br />This is an illustration of the continuously open line that we have to the ear of God. The difference is that it is never shut down, but we can so easily ignore it. Far better to keep the line in use by talking early and often to God, our Father. When we lay our concerns before Him, He often gives us a verse that exactly suits the situation.<br /><br />But always remember that first of all, our Father wants to hear our praise and thanksgiving. We owe Him so much, for which we could never have paid. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Romans 3:23</strong></span>. This, of course, brings in the reality of Calvary. Through it all, the Lord endured indescribable suffering to the very end, in obedience to God, His Father, and on our behalf. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief" 1 Timothy 1:15</strong></span>. Paul, in all his self-righteousness, was one who had victimized people who trusted and followed Jesus. As a redeemed servant of Christ, He took no exalted position. Nor should we. <br /><br />It cost the reporter of olden days something to keep that phone line open, but for us it is one of the free gifts the Father has granted; a direct and permanently accessible line to His throne. He hears every word we say in prayer, and whenever the Lord Jesus is exalted before Him, He is gratified. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lorne Perry</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8910</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And this is the confidence that we have in Him, that, if we ask anything, according to His will, He heareth us; and if we know that He hear us: whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of Him. 1 John 5:14,15</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Love gave us these words and only love can understand them. One who loves his Father knows by a kind of Heavenly instinct what he may ask for, and what he may not ask for. Or if he be in any doubt, he ceases to ask anything and rests his heart on his Lord's own prayer, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Thy will be done"</strong></span>.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">So it is that he has this confidence, and knows that he has the petitions that he has desired of Him.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The words are not for casual use, or for any except those who earnestly want to be His true lovers, to whom the lightest wish of their Lord is a command. The least of us may be a lover. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Edges of His Ways - Amy Carmichael</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear;<br />What a privilege to carry every-thing to God in prayer.<br />O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear;</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">All because we do not carry, everything to God in prayer. <br /><br />Have we trials and temptations? Is there trouble anywhere?<br />We should never be discouraged; take it to the Lord in prayer.<br />Can we find a friend so faithful, Who will all our sorrows share?<br />Jesus knows our every weakness--take it to the Lord in prayer.<br /><br />Are we weak and heavy laden, cumbered with a load of care?<br />Precious Saviour still our refuge, take it to the Lord in prayer.<br />Do thy friends despise, forsake thee? take it to the Lord in prayer;<br />In His arms He'll take and shield thee, thou wilt find a solace there.</span></strong></em> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. Scriven</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8911</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help <u><em>in time of need</em></u>." Hebrews 4:16" "Let us approach therefore with boldness to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace for <u><em>seasonable help</em></u>." (J.N.D. translation</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">). </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">What is the difference in the two translations? This: if you lift a man out of a deep hole into which he has accidentally fallen, you would be giving him help in time of need; if you guard him from falling into the hole, you would be rendering him seasonable help. A fence at the top of a precipice is better than a hospital at the bottom. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He ever lives to intercede and hence the grace of God is not only equal for a second but for sixty seconds, not only for a minute but for sixty minutes, not only for an hour but for twenty-four hours, not only for a day, but for three hundred and sixty five days, not only for a year, but for a lifetime and eternity. He is able to <u>save to the uttermost</u> </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Hebrews 7)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> to <u>keep us from falling</u> </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Jude 24)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> to <u>do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think</u> </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Ephesians 3)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It is a poor thing and a small thing merely to get enough out of God's grace to give us a spiritual livelihood. The very end of our blessing is that we may be a blessing to others. Would it be worth our while to construct an expensive machine simply for the purpose of having it run and show its perfection? We construct our machine to accomplish results, to perform work, to produce something that will pay its cost and benefit mankind. <br /><br />And so the great object of God in <u>saving</u>, <u>sanctifying</u>, and boundlessly <u>supplying</u> the needs of His people, is, to get them beyond themselves, and prepare them for <strong><em>every good work</em></strong>. In the presence of these truly great words, let us take fresh heart. <u>His</u> <u>power is boundless</u>, <u>His grace is matchless</u>; and the place at which we come in contact with them is the place of prayer <strong>(Hebrews 4:16</strong>) </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Heaven's Cure for Earth's Care - George Henderson</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8912</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">That in all things He might have the </span></strong></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>preeminence. Colossians 1:18</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Christ is everything. He is everything to the heart of God, and He desires to be everything to the hearts of His people. That it may be so with you is the highest blessedness I can desire for you. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">There is never any difficulty about guidance when the eye is on Christ, but if other considerations come in then you miss His leadings. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"According to my earnest expectation and my hope, that in nothing I shall be ashamed, but that with all boldness, as always, so now also Christ shall be magnified in my body." (Philippians 1:20)</strong></span><br /><br />Is it our desire to be able to adopt Paul's language? Do we hold our bodies as vessels for the display of Christ? As we rise in the morning do we look upon the coming day as another opportunity of making Christ great? </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>We can present Christ to the hearts of men in our lives as well as by our words</u>. We may not be able to explain a single passage of scripture, but we can </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>live Christ</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. You may teach a Sunday school, or visit among the poor, and that is all right and good, but there is something far better--live </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Christ</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, present </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Christ</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">May the Lord teach us this lesson--that HE is the only thing that is indispensable to us. There is always a response to the ministry of Christ. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><em><strong>Edward Dennett </strong></em></span><br /><br /><em><strong>Of the vast universe of bliss, the centre Thou, and Sun; <br />The eternal theme of praise is this, to heaven's beloved One:<br />Worthy, O Lamb of God, art Thou, that every knee to Thee should bow! J. Conder</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8913</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Now there stood by the cross of Jesus His mother...and the disciple standing by, whom He loved. (John 19:25-26) <br />Mary Magdalene...cometh to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and saith unto them, They have taken away the Lord out of the sepulchre, and we know not where they have laid Him. Peter...went forth, and that other disciple, and came to the sepulchre. John 20:1-3 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The second mention of John as the disciple whom Jesus loved brings us to the cross. The mother of Jesus is present with other devoted women, and one disciple is there--the disciple whom Jesus loved. Where is now the disciple that rested <u>in his love to Christ</u>? Alas, away in some lonely spot with a broken heart, weeping tears of bitter shame. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Where is the disciple who rests <u>in the love of Christ</u>? As in the Upper Room, so now at the cross, as near to Christ as he can be. And what is the result? He becomes a vessel fit for the Master's use. The mother of Jesus is committed to his care. Resting in the Lord's love fits for service. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">For the third time, John is presented as the disciple whom Jesus loved on the resurrection morning. Again he is found in association with Peter. The two disciples, learning form the women that the sepulchre is empty, hasten to the tomb. Then follows the record of what might appear to be an insignificant detail, namely that Peter starts first, that both disciples run together, and finally that the disciple whom Jesus loved did outrun Peter .</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Nothing that the Spirit of God has recorded can be unimportant, though, as in this case, it may be difficult to seize the import of a particular incident. Yet, if we may be allowed to spiritualize this scene, <u>we may learn what is surely true, that while the man of ardent nature may often take the lead in some spiritual enterprise, it is the man who is leaning on the love of the Lord that finally leads the way</u>. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Hamilton Smith</span></span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8914</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him. James 1:5 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Christ could never lack divine wisdom. But with us it is very possible that wisdom may be lacking, even when will is subject, and we truly desire to do the will of God. Therefore the promise follows, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"if any of you lack wisdom..."</strong></span><strong>(quoted above). </strong>Absence of will, obedience, and the spirit of confiding dependence which waits on God, characterize the new life. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We pass through tribulation in the world; but this life develops itself in these qualities. But it is necessary this confidence should be in exercise; otherwise we can receive nothing. It does not honour God to distrust Him. Such a man is double-minded, like a wave of the sea driven by the wind. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(v.1:6)</strong></span> He is unstable, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(v.1:8)</strong></span> because his heart is not in communion with God; he does not live in a way to know Him; such an one is, of course, unstable.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">If a believer keeps in the presence of God, near Him, he knows Him, and will understand His will; he will not have a will of his own, and will not wish to have one; not only on the ground of obedience, but because he has more confidence in the thoughts of God concerning Him than he has in his own will.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Faith in the goodness of God gives courage to seek and to do His will. We have in Christ Himself a perfect and beautiful example of these principles of the divine life. Tempted by Satan, He has no will of HIs own; it does not stir; but He shows that man lives by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God. It is absolute and perfect obedience. The will of God is not only the rule but the sole motive for action.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When the tempter desires Him to throw Himself down from the temple, to see whether God will be true to His promises, Jesus will in no way be tempted; He cannot question His faithfulness. He waits quietly for the power of God, whenever the occasion may present itself for manifesting it, in the path of His will. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Brief Exposition of the Epistle of James - J. N. Darby </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8915</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">And God said, let there be light: and there was light. And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness. Genesis 1:3-4 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Let the light into your hearts! Well, the light has come, in the Person of the Lord Jesus Christ. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"God is light"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">--bear that in mind--and </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"in Him is no darkness at all."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> But, since God is light, the light reveals the true relation of things. Light first of all shows where man is, and for that purpose Light came into the world. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong> "That was the true Light ,which coming into the world lightens every man" (John 1:9)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. You must not understand by that statement that every man was converted. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Oh no! The light was there, and was for everybody, but alas, nobody had eyes to see it, until God had wrought in the heart and opened the eyes; that is the solemn side of the truth. Sin has plunged us in such a condition of distance from God, that really we do not see who Christ is, or what He is, until God opens our eyes. When Paul appears before Agrippa he says, that the Lord had commissioned him to go to <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"the Gentiles, unto whom I now send thee, to open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified, by faith that is in me" <br />(Acts 26:17,18)</strong></span>.<br /><br />Now would you like to have light? Would you like to have peace? Light will discover to you your lost condition; for it exposes you. Yes, but I will tell you what takes place after the light makes manifest to you that you are a poor, wretched, hell-deserving sinner. The next thing that light will do, is to reveal that <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"God is love,"</strong></span> and that He has given His blessed Son for your salvation. Light will reveal your guilt, and <u>Love will blot it all out. Light will make manifest your lost condition, and love will meet it. God is light, and God is love</u>. Both are seen in Jesus. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Seekers for Light - W. T. P. Wolston, M.D. </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8916</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">THE SOVEREIGN REMEDY FOR DESPONDENCY</span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted within me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise Him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God. Psalm 42:11</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">(1) The cure for the depression occasioned by overwork--is rest;<br />(2) For that caused by introspection--heart-<wbr></wbr>occupation with the exalted Lord;<br />(3) And for that which is sometimes brought on by trial--a view of the beneficent purposes which God is accomplishing by its means. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But referring once more to <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Psalm 42:11,</strong></span> we have a sovereign remedy for despondency which never fails. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"<u>Hope</u> Thou in God; for I shall yet <u>praise</u> Him..."</strong></span> Hope lightens the heart and enable us endure; praise brightens the face and enables us to sing away what we cannot reason away <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Whoso offereth praise glorifieth Me, and to him that ordereth his conversation aright will I show the salvation of God." (Psalm 50:23)</strong></span>. <br /><br />The volume of praise may be very small to begin with; but if you keep lifting up the face to God that volume will steadily increase. Bless God for starlight and He will give you moonlight; praise Him for moonlight and He will give you sunlight; thank Him for sunlight, and you shall yet come to that land where they need not the light of the sun, for the Lord God giveth them light for ever and ever.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>On that bright strand the <u>blood-washed ones of Jesus</u><br /><u>Are safe</u>, no more the weary feet shall roam;<br />They find at last all that the heart has longed for,<br />Within God's house at home.</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">George Henderson</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8917</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">A sower went forth to sow...some seeds fell by the wayside...some fell among stony places...some fell among thorns...but other fell into good ground, and brought forth fruit, some an hundredfold, some sixtyfold, some thirtyfold. Matthew 13:3-8 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>This is true whether the seed be good or bad</u>, <u>and whether the ground be good or bad</u>. Jacob deceived his old father and stole his brother's birthright. That was bad sowing, but he did not expect the harvest he received. Laban deceived him about his wife, and and he had to work another seven years in order to win her. Nor was this all the harvest. Laban changed his wages ten times in his effort to cheat him. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">That was only part of the harvest. He had twenty years of bitter labour in Syria. Then his own sons deceived him about Joseph, and he spent twenty two years in bitter sorrow, mourning him as dead. This was part of the harvest of his own sowing. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">David committed adultery with Bathsheba, but he never expected the harvest would come as it did; his own son defiled his sister. David murdered Bathsheba's husband, but he never expected the harvest this brought; his son Amon was murdered by his brother, his baby died, and his son Absalom was killed in battle, without the hope of ever seeing him again in the world to come. And finally Solomon the king puts his older brother to death for what was really conspiracy. <u>Yes, we reap more than we sow, and we reap that very thing we sow</u>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">These are most solemn thoughts, and should make us every one <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"consider"</strong></span> our <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"ways" (Haggai 1:7)</strong></span> Even by a thought we may sow to the flesh. How many books, pictures and magazines in these days sow to the flesh, and will bring forth a harvest unto corruption. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"> <strong>Meditations on</strong> <em><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><strong>Galatians - G.C. Willis </strong></span></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8918</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>I SHALL YET PRAISE HIM</em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">Hope Thou in God: for I shall yet praise Him for the help of His countenance. Psalm 42:5 </span></strong><span style="color: blue;"></span><br /><br />I shall yet praise Him--though blossoms have withered,<br />Empty the fold is and barren the field,<br />All the fair promise of harvest has vanished,<br />Fig-tree and olive have failed in their yield.<br /><br />I shall yet praise Him--though now the mists shroud me,<br />Though through the darkness there shineth no star,<br />Though long delayed be the word of His counsel,<br />And to all seeming He hideth afar.<br /><br />I shall yet praise Him for victory given;<br />Though fierce the the sifting, His prayer cannot fail; <br />Till the fourth watch He may leave me in darkness;<br />Then clouds shall lift and the light shall prevail.<br /><br />I shall yet praise Him who knoweth my pathway,<br />For all His leading through desert and sea,<br />For the sure promise that standeth forever,<br />For all His purpose fulfilled unto me.<br /><br />I shall yet praise Him--mute mouth filled with laughter,<br />Silent lips opened and tongue tuned to song;<br />Surely praise waiteth; joy sown for my reaping,<br />Cometh to harvest, though lingering long.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Flint's Best-Loved Poems</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8919</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God." (Romans 10:3)</span></strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">This was true of Israel after the flesh. It is just as true of millions of Gentiles, who, ignoring the solemn testimony of God's word regarding man's utterly lost condition, still persist in trying to work out a righteousness of their own, deceived by the Adversary into believing that they can in some way satisfy an offended God and put Him in their debt so that they can earn His salvation. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"We are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags...and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away" (Isaiah 64:6)</strong></span> It is just this attempt to work out a human, legal righteousness that God's Word calls <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"dead works"</strong></span>.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">What then is meant by <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"repentance from dead works" (Hebrews 6:1)?</strong></span> It is a complete change of mind, whereby the convicted sinner gives up all thought of being able to propitiate God by effort of his own and acknowledges that he is as bad as the Word has declared him to be. He turns about his face. Instead of relying on his own fancied merits, he turns to the Lord for deliverance and seeks for mercy through the Saviour God has provided.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><u>In Old Testament times, the legal code with its forms and ceremonies was given, not as a means of justifying righteousness but as a test of obedience</u>. It was as true then as now that the righteous requirement of the Law was was only fulfilled (and that, of course, only in measure) in those who were already regenerated. <u>God has never had two ways of saving people</u>, but different dispensations, have been committed to His people as standards of living, in the various ages.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>No one was ever saved by law-keeping or by sacrificial observances</u>. To trust in these things would never avail. Not sacrifices, nor offerings, but a broken and a contrite heart, was acceptable to God. <u>All outward forms or legal efforts, apart from faith, were merely dead works, from which the prophets were constantly calling upon men to repent</u>. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Unless You Repent - H. A, Ironside </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8920</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 28</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Fear not; I am the first and the last: I am He that liveth, and was dead; and, behold, I am alive for evermore, Amen; and have the keys of hell and of death. Revelation 1:17-18</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Deep and varied as are the necessities of the soul they are all met by the death and resurrection of Christ. <u>If it be a question of sin that affects the soul, the resurrection is the glorious proof of the complete putting away of sin</u>. The moment I see Jesus at the right hand of God I see an end of sin, for I know He could not be there if sin was not fully atoned for. <br /><br />He was delivered for our offences; He stood as our representative; He took upon Himself our iniquities and went down into the grave under the weight thereof. But God raised Him up from the dead, and by so doing expressed His full approbation of the work of redemption. Hence we read, He <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"was raised again for our justification"</strong></span>. Resurrection, therefore, meets the need of the soul as regards the question of sin. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Then, when we enter upon the trying and difficult path of Christian testimony, we find that Jesus risen is a sovereign remedy for all the ills of life. This is exemplified for us in John 20. Mary returns to the sepulchre early in the morning. Her heart was not only sad at the loss fo her gracious Friend, but also tried by the difficulty of removing the stone.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>The resurrection removed at once her sorrow and her burden</u>. Jesus risen filled the blank in her desolated affections and removed from her shoulders the load which she was unable to sustain. She found the stone rolled away from the sepulchre, and she found also her beloved Lord whom death had for a season snatched from her view. Such mighty things could resurrection accomplish on behalf of a poor needy mortal! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> C. H. Mackintosh</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8921</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>THE MINISTRY OF BENEVOLENCE</strong></span></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered Himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God? Hebrews 9:14</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The New Testament speaks of three kinds of works: dead work--the activities of the self-righteous man; wicked works--the activities of the unrighteous man </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong style="font-size: 16px;">(Colossians 1:21)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; and good works--the activities of the Christian man </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Ephesians 2:10)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. It tells us that the Lord Jesus went about continually doing good <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Acts 10:38)</strong></span>; and that He has left His people an example that they should follow His steps <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(1 Peter 2:21)</strong></span>. <br /><br />Christian women are asked are to adorn themselves with good works </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(1 Timothy 2:9,10)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; Christian men are urged to separate from everything that hinders in order that they may be meet for the Master's use and prepared unto every good work <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(2 Timothy 2:21)</strong></span>. <br /><br />We are to be fruitful In every form of benevolence <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Colossians 1:10)</strong></span>; and are not to restrict our activities to the children of God but, as we have opportunity, are to show kindness to all <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Galatians 6:10); (Hebrews 13:16)</strong></span>. The power by which we are equipped for these delightful ministries is the illimitable grace of God <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(2 Corinthians 9:8)</strong></span>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">In calling us, thus, to lives of unselfishness and of devotedness to the well-being of others, God is not only conferring on us an inestimable privilege, He is also placing within our reach one of the great secrets of true happiness. For experience shows that the saddest of mortals is the man who lives solely for his own selfish interests and advantages.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Heaven's Cure for Earth's Care - George Henderson </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8922</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 30</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>For there are three that bear record in heaven, the Father, the Word and the Holy Ghost: and these three are one." 1 John 5:7 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>What was it blessed God, led Thee to give Thy Son,<br />To yield Thy well-beloved for us by sin undone?<br />'Twas love unbounded led Thee thus to give Thy well-beloved for us. <br /><br />What led Thy Son, O God! to leave Thy throne on high,<br />To shed His precious blood, to suffer and to die!<br />'Twas love unbounded love to us, led Him to die and suffer Thus. <br /><br />What moved Thee to impart Thy Spirit from above,<br />Therewith to fill our heart, with heavenly peace and love!<br />'Twas love, unbounded love to us, moved Thee to give Thy Spirit thus. <br /><br />What love to Thee we owe, our God, for all Thy grace;<br />Our hearts may well o'erflow in everlasting praise! <br />Make us, O Lord to praise Thee thus for all Thy boundless love to us. </strong></em></span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Ann Taylor</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Stanzas 1, 2, and 3 each enlarge on one of these wonderful persons. <u>They are all God</u>, and thus is hard for us to comprehend, but it was so generous of God to delineate Himself in three characters so that we could appreciate each one, never losing sight of their singleness of mind and purpose. Notice also the hymn is the seven great gifts of God high lighted:</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: mediumblue;">1. God Himself, whom we have come to know as our Father.<br />2. Divine love, the starting point for all blessing, and which continues into eternity.<br />3. The Son, the greatest gift of all.<br />4. The precious blood, the clear evidence of His death.<br />5. The Holy Spirit, whose chief delight is to point us to Christ.<br />6. Heavenly peace; perfect and eternal.<br />7. Grace, that which takes us into all our spiritual blessings in Christ; way beyond anything we might imagine. </span></span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lorne Perry</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8923</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 31</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>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. <br />Hebrews 4:14 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Christ glorified--rest glorious</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. 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. <br /><br /><u>Adam disturbed His creation-rest</u>. <u>Israel disturbed His Canaan-rest</u>. 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. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Musings on Hebrews - J. G. Bellett</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8924</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>I have heard of Thee by the hearing of the ear: but now mine eye seeth Thee. Job 42:5 </strong></span><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Job was a good man already. He feared God and eschewed </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em>[shunned]</em></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> evil, and God called him </span><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong style="font-size: 16px;">"My servant Job"</strong></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> and said of him, </span><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"There is none like him in the earth." (Job 1:8)</strong></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Job had heard and had believed. That is good enough to start with. </span><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God" (Romans 10:17)</strong></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. Moreover, Job had lived an exemplary life. But, like many who have come that far, he needed to </span><span style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>see</strong></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> 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. <br /><br />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, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I have heard of Thee by the hearing of the ear: <u><em>but now</em></u> mine eye seeth Thee" (Job 42:5)</strong></span> </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Faith is a very simple thing, tho' little understood;<br />It frees the soul from death's dread sting, by resting on the blood.<br /><br />It looks not on the things around, nor on the things within;<br />It takes its flight to scenes above, beyond the sphere of sin.<br /><br />It sees upon the the throne of God a victim that was slain;<br />It rests its all on His shed blood, and says, "I'm born again."<br /><br />Faith is not what we see or feel; It is a simple trust <br />In what the God of love has said of Jesus as the Just.</span></em><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Asa Hull</span></span></strong></em><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Day by Day with Vance Havner </span></span></strong></em><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8925</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>BEING USABLE</strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"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</strong></span><br /> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The word in </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>2 Timothy 2:21</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">simply says that if the vessel be clean it will be ready for the Master to use; and in Isaiah 6, the </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Send me"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> was in answer to the question,</span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Who will go?"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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? <br /><br />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.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Thou Givest...They Gather - Amy Carmichael </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8926</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>A brother beloved, specially to me, but how much more unto thee, both in the flesh, and in the Lord? Philemon 16</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Philemon 16)</strong></span> You are to pray particularly for those that are in distress: whoever you forget, remember these: this is a fit season for love. <br /><br />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. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>Prayer and Thanksgiving</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. 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. <br /><br />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.<br /><br />As, a necessary ingredient in all our prayers: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"...with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." (Philippians 4:6)</strong></span>. 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. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Christian in Complete Armour - William Gurnall 1617-1679 </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8927</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">August 4</span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-57561516026919953242022-06-01T06:20:00.041-04:002022-06-29T08:01:03.594-04:00Gems from June 2022<p> <span style="font-size: x-large;">June 1</span></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus. Philippians 2:5 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The first word, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Let"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, can be interpreted </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"Permit"</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; the thought being that there might be some hindrance to the mind of Christ being very active in us. It is important to realize that from the moment we are saved; having taken the Lord Jesus as personal Saviour, we are indeed possessors of the </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"mind of Christ"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. But, sad to say, the habits and responsibilities of life, to say nothing of passions or goals, often crowd out the "voice" of the mind of Christ from being discerned and acted upon. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It is like many of the spiritual blessings, ours from day 1 of our salvation, that are so little appreciated or put into practice, because we are so taken up with the ordinary pattern of life, and the effect it can have in blunting or diminishing the power and benefits of living according to our spiritual blessings. We may know just what those spiritual blessings are, but we do not even begin to appreciate them unless and until we work them into our daily walk. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The children of Israel were told, in <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Joshua 1:3</strong></span>, that a great territory could be theirs, way beyond the current boarders of Israel, but they first had to walk upon the whole of it; clearing out God's enemies as they went by taking strength from Him. They had some success but, in those historic times, never took it all. <br /><br />That will actually come about in a future time when the Lord Jesus, in all His power and glory, will obtain the whole territory for Israel, and go on to see that the entire world is under His dominion and benevolent reign. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lorne Perry</span></span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(PART 1)</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and, things under the earth..." Philippians 2:10</strong></span> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8864</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">"Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God...made Himself of no reputation...was made in the likeness of men...He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross...God also hath highly exalted Him...that at the name of Jesus every knee shall bow...and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." Philippians 2:5-11</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">The mind of Christ has been described for us in very concise terms in the verses above. They trace the Lord's path from the Father's home above, into this world in the form of a man, walking in lock-step with the will of God, being obedient to the judgmental sacrifice of Himself on the cross, concluding with His triumphant resurrection, ascension and return to reign. It is in view of what marvels He accomplished for God and for us that we are instructed and encouraged to take on this same character, living daily according to how He lived.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">There are two fundamental ways in which this spirit should be seen in our lives. The first is to demonstrate brotherly love and kindness to our brothers and sisters in the Lord. The second is to reach out beyond that circle to those around us who still need to learn of their need of a Saviour; who He is and what He has done to prepare a way for them to inherit eternal life. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The Lord also showed how dependent He was on God, His Father, and how often He was in prayer giving Him thanksgiving and praise. And this becomes another grand way we can act on the Spirit of Christ within us to magnify our Lord and exalt God, who is His and our Father.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Mark 10:13-16</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> tells of mothers desiring to bring their little children to Jesus. But there was a hindrance. Some of His disciples tried to turn them away so they wouldn't bother the Lord. But Jesus saw them and said <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Suffer (or let) the little children to come unto Me"</strong></span>. The message is that we need to clear away the difficulties or interruptions that hinder the work of blessing the Lord is ready to do through us. Most often, these difficulties are within ourselves. To let the Lord work through you, "Get out of the way!" </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lorne Perry (Part 2) </span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8865</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness." </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">2 Corinthians 12:9</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Such words lead straight to a land where there is gold, and the gold of that land is good. Gold--the word recalls Job's affirmation, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"When He hath tried me I shall come forth as gold"</strong></span>; and Peter's <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"That the trial of your faith, being much more perisheth than of gold though it be tried with fire" (1 Peter 1:7)</strong></span>; and the quiet word in <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Malachi 3:3) "He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of </strong></span></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em style="font-size: 16px;">silver</em></strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>."</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">I have often thanked God that the word is not gold there, but silver. Silver is of little account in the East, and we feel more like silver than gold. But he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>silver</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, so who need fear?</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">This picture of the Refiner is straight from Eastern life. The Eastern goldsmith sits on the floor by his crucible. For me, at least, it was not hard to know why the Heavenly Refiner had to sit so long. The heart knows its own dross. Blessed be the love that never wearies, never gives up hope that even in such poor metal He may at last see the reflection of His face. "How do you know when it is purified?" we asked our village goldsmith. "<u>When I can see my face in it,</u>" he answered. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Rose From Briar - Amy Carmichael</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8866</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em><span style="font-size: 18px;">RESTORATION BY CHASTISEMENT</span></em></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>He restoreth my soul . . . Psalm 23:3 </strong></span><br /><br />Chastisement is one of our unpleasant blessings. In the exercise of it God reveals "the graver countenance of love". Correctly to understand its purpose and meaning and value, however, we must remember that it is not always or necessarily the result of sin. It is quite true, as the history of the ages solemnly testifies, that <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." (Galatians 6:7)</strong></span>; that, as one of our poets expresses it, </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">". . . Sorrow follows wrong, as echo follows song,<br />And every guilty deed holds within itself the seed <br />of retribution and undying pain." </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But, admitting all this, the fact remains that retribution does not exhaust the purposes of God in chastisement. He has also lessons of education and soul-culture to teach by its means--lessons which, when learned, will issue in </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby" (Hebrews 12:11)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. It is for this reason that we are exhorted to </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"despise not the chastening of the Lord; neither be weary of His correction: for whom the Lord loveth He correcteth, even as a father the son in whom he delighteth" (Proverbs 3:11,12)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Assured, then, that chastisement may be educative as well as retributive, and that in either case it is the evidence of a love which ever has our profit in view, we turn to consider the classic passage which deals with it--</span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Hebrews 12:5-11)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. And if we examine that passage carefully we find that chastisement has always one of three effects upon us; we either <u><span style="color: blue;"><strong><em>despise</em></strong></span></u> it, or <u><span style="color: blue;"><em><strong>faint</strong></em></span></u> under it, or <span style="color: blue;"><em><strong><u>are exercised</u> </strong></em></span>by it. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">The Pearl of Psalms - George Henderson</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8867</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"I am the vine, ye are the branches. John 15:5</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It was in connection with the Parable of the vine that our Lord first used the expression, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Abide in Me."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> That parable, so simple, and yet so rich in its teaching, gives us the best and most complete illustration of the meaning of our Lord's command, and the union to which He invites us. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The parable teaches us </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>the nature</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> of that union. The connection between the vine and the branch is a living one. No external, temporary union will suffice; no work of man can effect it: the branch, whether an original or an engrafted one, is such only by the Creator's own work, in virtue of which the life, the sap, the fatness, and the fruitfulness of the vine communicate themselves to the branch.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">And just so it is with the believer too. His union with His Lord is no work of human wisdom or human will, but an act of God, by which the closest and most complete life-union is effected between the Son of God and the believer. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"God hath sent forth the Spirit of His Son into your hearts." (Galatians 4:6)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> The same Spirit which dwelt and still dwells in the Son, becomes the life of the believer; in the unity of that one Spirit, and the fellowship of the same life which is in Christ, he is one with Him. As between the vine and the branch, it is a life-union that makes them one. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The parable teaches us the </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>completeness</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> of the union. So close is the union between the vine and the branch. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Without the vine the branch can do nothing. To the vine it owes its right of place in the vineyard, its life and its fruitfulness. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Abide in Christ</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> - </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Andrew Murray</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8868</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>No man can come unto Me, except it were given him of My Father. <br />John 6:65 <br /><br />Yea, I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with lovingkindness have I drawn thee. Jeremiah 31:3 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The coming was personal and individual; <strong>it may have been </strong><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"in the press," (Mark 5:27)</strong></span> but we had nothing to do with the rest of the throng; we know in ourselves that we, you and I, individually, have come. That personal coming was because of God the Father's personal drawing. I do not know how He drew you, you do not know how He drew me, but without it most certainly neither you nor I ever could have come, because we never would have come. <br /><br />This personal drawing by personal loving-kindness was because of personal and individual everlasting love. Coming only because drawn, drawn only because loved! Here we reach, and rest on, the firm foundation of the electing love of God in Christ, proved by His drawing, resulting in our coming! When we know that this sun is shining in the heaven of heavens, should we be watching every flicker of our little farthing candle of faith? <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(2 Timothy 2:13)</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>From no less fountain such a stream could flow, <br />No other root could yield so fair a flower:<br />Had He not loved, He had not drawn us so;<br />Had He not drawn, we had no will nor power<br />To rise, to come;--the Saviour had passed by<br />Where we in blindness sat without one care or cry. </strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Royal Bounty - Frances Ridley Havergal</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8869 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>The tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! James 3:5 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Many according to the flesh would avoid giving a blow, who cannot restrain a passionate or hard word against a neighbour. <br /><br />But if no man can restrain the tongue, the grace of Christ can do it, for the inner man on one side is under the yoke of the Lord, and is meek and lowly in heart: Christ fills the heart, and thus precisely because the tongue follows the impulses of the heart, the speech will express this meekness and lowliness. <br /><br />For this, it is needful that Christ alone should dwell there, and the flesh be so held in check, that when temptation comes it may not stir. <br /><br />It is difficult not to fail, but it is very useful to see that the tongue shows what is working within, just as the hands of a clock show the hidden workings of its wheels. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Brief Exposition of the Epistle of James - J. N. Darby </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8870</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">If any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God, or whether I speak of Myself. John 7:17 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The battle is fought in the citadel of the will. We have intelligence, emotions, and will. We may not be able to understand with the intelligence or feel with the emotions as we would like. We may not be able to understand with the intelligence or feel with the emotions as we would like, but we can take a stand in the will and be true to God, however all else may clamour.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Do not yield to confusion. Are you a man or a mob? Too many today do not have themselves in order and under command. Many a man is not a personality, he is a panic! </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Of course, our poor wills, left unaided, are but cotton strings. But when we will the will of God He begins to work in us both to will and do of His good pleasure </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Philippians 2:13)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. We submit to His will: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Thy will be done." (Matthew 26:42) </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">T</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">hen we assert His will: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Thy will be done!"</strong></span> It is both passive and active. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Thy will be done"</strong></span> is not mere resignation to the inevitable, it is affirmation of the invincible.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">However little the intelligence may understand or emotion feel, we take our stand in the will yielded to His will. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Day by Day with Vance Havner</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8871</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">A crown of </span></strong></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>thorns . . . upon His head. Matthew 27:29 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">What miserable heroes the soldiers were that day when they mocked God's lovely Son. A king? Then crown Him, and they pressed the thorns into His blessed brow. A king? Then anoint Him, so they spat in His face. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Be not deceived, for beneath that thorny crown lay all the authority of Godhood. One word and He could have forever banished His tormentors. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>But He loved them</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, and soon would die for them, and for us. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">What a crown! What a king! what a love is this. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. Boyd Nicholson </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Alas! and did my Saviour bleed! And did my Saviour die? Would He devote that sacred head for such a worm as I?<br /><br />Was it for crimes that I have done He groaned upon the tree? Amazing pity, grace unknown, and love beyond degree!<br /><br />Well might the sun in darkness hide, and shut his glories in, When the incarnate Maker died for man His creature's sin.<br /><br />But drops of grief can ne'er repay the debt of love I owe; Here, Lord, I give myself to Thee--'tis all that I can do. </strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Isaac Watts -1674-1748</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8872</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>They shall be Mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up My Jewels. Malachi 3:17</strong></span><br /><br />What do God's children as jewels remind us of?<br />1. Like jewels, they are rare. <br />2. Like jewels, they are beautiful, brilliant, ornamental. <br />3. Like jewels, they are found in strange and unlikely places. <br />4. Like jewels, they are obtained only with much risk and trouble. <br />5. Like jewels, they have to be cut and polished to bring out<br /> their beauty and value. <br />6. Like jewels, they are very valuable; hence they cost a great deal.<br />7. Like jewels, they are carefully preserved. <br />8. Like jewels, they will be collected and exhibited. <br /><br />Sapphires, rubies, opals, precious every one;<br />The great Lapidary sees His work begun. <br />He will not relax His care till work is finished there. -- </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">E.E.T.</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When He cometh, when He cometh, to make up His jewels;<br />All His jewels, precious jewels, His loved and His own. <br /><br />He will gather, He will gather the gems for His kingdom;<br />All the pure ones, all the bright ones, His loved and His own.<br /><br />Little children, little children, who love their Redeemer,<br />Are the Jewels, precious Jewels, His loved and His own.<br /><br />Like the stars of the morning, His bright crown adorning,<br />They shall shine in His beauty, bright gems for His crown,</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">W. O. Cushing</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8873</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 16px;">THE MOST VALUABLE LIFE</span></em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, know and read of all men. </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">2 Corinthians 3:2 </span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">After all, the lives that do the most for the world are the steady, quiet lives. They are like stars; they just stay in their appointed places and shine with the light God has given them. Meteors shoot brilliantly across the sky, and we exclaim and wonder, but long after they have vanished the stars shine on to guide us. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>I need not shout my faith:<br />Thrice eloquent are quiet trees,<br />And the green listening sod;<br />Hushed are the stars, whose power is never spent,<br />The hills are mute: yet how they speak of God.</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Charles Hanson Towne </span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It is not necessarily the busiest, who are ever on the rush after some visible work; It is the lives like stars, which simply pour down upon us the calm light of their bright and faithful being, out of which we gather the deepest calm and courage. It is good to know that no man or woman can be strong, gentle, good, without somebody being helped and comforted by the very existence of that goodness.--</span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Philips Brooks</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"The rose needs no tongue to tell its fragrance; the flower to speak its beauty. The best arguments for Christianity are the Christians themselves".<br /><br />Calmness is the seal of strength. <br />N.J. HIebert - 8874</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>STEADFASTNESS</strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Mine eyes are ever toward the Lord; for He shall pluck my feet out of the net. Psalm 25:15</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">If anyone feels, as I did, smitten and penetrated by the force of those two words, </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>looking back</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, I think you will find cheer from </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Psalm 25:15</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. How often, perhaps almost before we knew it, we have looked back; how often we have found ourselves caught in a net of longing. There is one way of deliverance: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Mine eyes are ever toward the Lord:"</strong></span> <br /><br />If only that be so, then not backward longings, not discouragements because of past failure, <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For Thy loving kindness is before mine eyes." (Psalm 26:3)</strong></span>. <br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in Him, and I am helped: therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise Him." (Psalm 28:7)</strong></span> <br /><br />So, like all the words of the Lord Jesus, this word goes deeper and deeper the more one thinks of it. All know this temptation, and our Lord, who was tempted in all points like as we are, must have know it too. But He never yielded. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Therefore have I set My face like a flint." (Isaiah 51:7)</strong></span> and, just before He warned others against looking back, it is written of Him, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He steadfastly set His face to go to Jerusalem." (Luke 9:51)</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Thou Givest...They Gather - Amy Carmichael </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8875</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">PRAYER AND INTEGRITY <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me" (Psalm 66:18) </span></strong><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Now, when God refuses to hear, we may be sure the Spirit refuses to assist; for God never rejects a prayer which His spirit indite(s). Have you defiled yourself with any known sin? Think not to have Him help you in prayer, till He has helped you to repent; He will carry you to the laver before He goes with you to the altar. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Take heed you pray not with a reservation: be sure you renounce what you would have God remit. . . . He that desires not to be purged from the filth of sin, prays in vain to be eased of the guilt. <u>If we love the work of sin</u>, <u>we must take the wages</u>. A false heart could be willing to have his sin covered, but the sincere desires his heart may be cleansed .</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">David begged a clean heart as well as as a quiet conscience: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Blot out all mine iniquities. Create in me a clean heart, O God." (Psalm 51:9,10)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> In nothing do our hearts more cheat us than in our prayers, and in no request more than those which are levelled against our lusts. That is often, times least intended, which is most pretended. . . . The saint's prayer may miscarry from some secret grudge that is lodged in his heart against his brother. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Christian in Complete Armour - William Gurnall (1617-1679) </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8876</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">For yet a little while, and He that shall come will come, and will not tarry. Hebrews 10:37</span></strong> <br /><br />Did you get up this morning and from the burnt toast onward you knew that it was going to be <em>"one of those days"</em>?<br /><br />Nothing came out right, that letter you expected did not come, that prayer you prayed was not answered, your arthritis acted up worse than ever and all you were aware of was the cold hard law of cause and effect.<br /><br />Not a break in the clouds, not a hint of heaven, everything was of the earth--earthy. Never mind, dear heart, it may have been "one of <strong>those</strong> days," but ahead lies "<em>one of <strong>these </strong>days," </em> another kind of day.<br /><br />If you are in Christ, beyond the snow of winter lies the sunshine of spring, beyond the grave lies resurrection. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Yet a little while and He that shall come will come and will not tarry. . . </strong></span>. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">All the Days - Vance Havner</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">Be not dismayed what'er betide, God will take care of you;<br />Beneath His wings of love abide, God will take care of you.<br /><br />Through days of toil when heart doth fail, God will take care of you;<br />When dangers fierce your path assail, God will take care of you.<br /><br />All you may need He will provide, God will take care of you;<br />Nothing you ask will be denied, God will take care of you.<br /><br />No matter what may be be the test, God will take care of you;<br />Lean, weary one, upon His breast, God will take care of you .</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">REFRAIN</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">: </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 14px;">God will take care of you, through every day, o'er all the way;<br />He will take care of you, God will take care of you</span></em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">C. D. Martin</span></span></em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. HIebert - 8877</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">God, Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began, but is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel. </span></strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">2 Timothy 1:9,10.</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The realization of the glory of the Lord and the greatness of the gospel will keep us from being ashamed of the testimony and prepare us to suffer affliction with the gospel.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It becomes clear from these verses that the two great themes of the gospel are <u>salvation and calling</u>. On the one hand the gospel proclaims the way of salvation; on the other hand it presents to us the purpose of God for which we are saved. We are apt to limit the gospel to the important question of our salvation; but so doing we miss the far deeper blessing connected with God's eternal purpose, and thus fail to enter into the heavenly calling.<br /><br />It is plain that the first great object of the gospel is our salvation, and God would have the believer to be in no uncertainty as to this salvation, as we read in this Scripture, He <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"hath saved us."</strong></span> The blessed effect of the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ is to set the believer beyond the judgment due to him on account of his sins, and to deliver him from the course of this world.<br /><br />So we read, He <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us out of this present evil world" (Galatians 1:4)</strong></span>. Though for the time we are actually in the world, we are, as set free from its power and influence, morally not of it.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Second Epistle to Timothy - An Expository Outline by Hamilton Smith</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8878</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>The Lord is my strength and my song, and He is become my salvation. <br />Exodus 15:2</strong></span><br /><br />He is mine! This is what rejoices every believer in the Lord Jesus. He is my beloved, and I am His! He is my strength. No other <strong><em>could</em></strong> do it. He is my song. No other <em><strong>would</strong></em> do it. And thus He has put a new song in my mouth.<br /><br />He is my salvation. No other <strong><em>did </em></strong>or could do it. I rest my soul in His completed work by faith, and rejoice in the knowledge that now my salvation is nearer than when I believed. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">E. Van Ryn </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Jesus, my Saviour! Thou art mine, the Father's gift of love divine; All Thou hast done, and all Thou art, are now the portion of my heart. <br /><br />Poor, feeble, wretched, as I am, I now can glory in Thy name; Now cleansed in Thy most precious blood and made the righteousness of God. <br /><br />All that Thou hast Thou hast for me, all my fresh springs are hid in Thee; In Thee I live; while I confess I nothing am, yet all possess. <br /><br />O Saviour, teach me to abide close sheltered at Thy wounded side, Each hour receiving "grace on grace," until I see Thee face to face.</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">J.G. Deck</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8879</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"And David rose up early in the morning. 1 Samuel 17:20</strong></span><br /><br />Like Christ, David is here a true servant. He <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"[rises] up early in the morning" (v.20)</strong></span> and takes his charge, so as to accomplish his father's will. Already anointed, he is the Spirit's man for this service, while at the same time maintaining his character of humility in the pastures of the sheep. <br /><br />He comes into the camp, where his brothers accuse his confidence in God and his faith, of being pride and naughtiness of heart <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(v.28)</strong></span>. We too can ever expect the same treatment ourselves in following the simple path of faith. Our relatives can no more understand our motives than the Lord's brothers could understand His. David answers Eliab: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"What have I now done? Was it not laid upon me?"</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(v.29)</strong></span>. What had he done to deserve being insulted? Did he not have a reason for going down to his brothers, when the God of Israel was daily being insulted by the enemy? <br /><br />David asks what will be done for the man who kills the Philistine and takes away the reproach from Israel <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(v26)</strong></span>. He learns that the king will enrich him with great riches, will give him his daughter, and make his father's house free. <br /><br />But it is not to obtain this reward that he enters the campaign; it is for God, for Israel's deliverance, to make the Lord known in all the earth, and that all the congregation should know how the Lord saves <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(vv.46-47)</strong></span>. Doubtless his victory gives him, like Christ, great riches, a bride, and the liberation of his father's house, <u>but this is the result rather than the purpose of his work</u>. <br /><br />David announces to Saul what he is going to accomplish <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(v.32)</strong></span>. The king, who can think of nothing but human methods, wants to provide him with his own armour; but David cannot go with weapons belonging to the flesh, and he has never even tried them. He wants no other weapons than those a shepherd uses to defend or regather his sheep. As for us, the Word is that weapon that faith alone can use; it overthrows Satan. <u>Human labour can have no part in such a conflict</u>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">1 Samuel - H. L. Rossier</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8880</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering; fore-bearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. <br />Colossians 3:12-14 </strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Here is one of the great basic truths of Christianity. The Christian has Christ as his life. Christ is <strong style="font-size: 16px;"><em>all,</em></strong> not simply is <em style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>his</strong></em> all, but Christ <em style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>is all</strong></em>. There is no true Christian character at all in our life except only as Christ, who is our life, produces it. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The stream flows out in our manners and actions, but the spring is Christ Himself who is our life, dwelling within the heart by faith. Therefore it goes without saying that this life in us should be characterized by that same divine tenderness that was ever seen in Him as He walked down here in this world. What is this list here--bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering, forgiveness, love--if not a perfect portrait of Christ? <br /><br />And this is presented here as being what the Christian is to put on and display in his walk and ways, for Christ is his life. It was natural for Christ, for it is His nature. It is not natural in the Christian: it is something he has to put on by surrendering himself fully to Christ and letting Him take over his life fully into His own hands and reproduce there His own character of divine tenderness. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">O teach us so the power to know<br />Of risen life with Thee;<br />Not we may live, while here below,<br />But Christ our life may be.</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">J.G. Deck</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8881</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Let not your heart be troubled; ye believe in God, believe also in Me. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid." John 14:1, 27. These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world John16:33. </strong></span><br /><br />That wonderful discourse recorded for us in John 14,16. begins and ends with a reference to trouble. In between, there come many references to some of the most profound truths that can occupy the human mind. Yet Christ ordained that His final utterance to His disciples ere He suffered should begin and end on the same note of comfort. <br /><br />This is only another instance of the perfection of all His ways; and His ways are a revelation of Himself. He knew how careworn those disciples were at that moment; He had perceived the sorrow that had captured their hearts, and filled them with dread; and in His perfect love to them, He applies the balm that would heal their wounds. <br /><br />As we have suggested, this ministry of consolation reveals Himself. He reminds them of His own triumph; and of the double necessity for His going away; (1) to prepare a place for them in the Father's House, and (2) that the other Comforter might come. And the lesson we learn is just this: all comfort in affliction--in sorrow and depression and heart sickness--and all victory over it, come to us through the knowledge of Him. <br /><br />What tragedies are constantly happening in the world for want of this knowledge! There are men and women who have nowhere to turn in their desperate need, and when the world and its pleasures fail them, they give way to despair, or plunge deeper into sin, or, it may be, with their own hands, put an end to their existence.<br /><br />Christ says to His own, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, <u>believe also in Me</u>." </strong></span>And again, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"<u>Be of good cheer</u>: I have overcome the world."</strong></span> Faith in Him is the great remedy. He never fails.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Angels in White - Russell Elliott</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Our comfort midst all grief and thrall,<br />Our life in death, our all in all." </span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8882</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>All thy garments smell of myrrh, and aloes, and cassia, out of the ivory palaces, whereby they have made thee glad. Psalm 45:8 </strong></span><br /><br />Our Lord was renowned for His fragrance in the world where men's mouths were open sepulchres and our tongues had used deceit. His mouth was most sweet, and His lips dropped sweet smelling myrrh, where every imagination of the thoughts or our <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"hearts was only evil continually"</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Genesis 6:5)</strong></span>. Our Lord did the loveliest deeds in the most lovely way. <br /><br />Some give without cheerfulness, but not the Lord Jesus; the love of friends is often mixed with dissimulation, but not His love. His kindness was lovingkindness, and His mercy tender mercy. When He cleansed the leper He touched him; when He showed grace to the woman in the temple <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(John 8)</strong></span> He did not desire to hear the details of the story of her shame. When the Lord gives wisdom He does not upbraid us for our ignorance <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(James 1:5)</strong></span>; He does not scold because we know so little. The Lord Jesus always gave commendation before he administered reproof. His ways were full of love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">The soul of our Lord was like the Holy of Holies where the cherubim stretched their wings above the mercy seat, and where the fragrance of the incense was a continual delight. His life was like a garden, where springtime beauty in the flowers "gives a good smell." He was renowned for His lovely words and loving deeds. There never was one like the Lord Jesus whose days, like Canaan, flowed with milk and honey.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">No person might make a confection to smell like that used in the tabernacle <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Exodus 30:38)</strong></span> for that fragrance was typical of Christ and no loveliness was ever lovely like His. There was only one such tender plant <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Isaiah 53:2)</strong></span> and He was cut off out of the land of the living. Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like the lily of the field; but all the beauty of all the flowers, and all their fragrance, too, would not suffice to tell how altogether lovely He is. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">A Plant of Renown - Leonard Sheldrake</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8883</span></span></div><div><br /></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out </strong></span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">[Cultivate]</strong><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong> your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure. Philippians 2:12,<wbr></wbr>13 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> It is many years since I worked on a farm, so I asked a dear farmer brother to help me out about </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">"cultivating."</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> This is what he said: "I have much enjoyed the thoughts you brought out about Philippians 2:12, and I'm sure it is a verse that has been a puzzle to many, and has been perhaps used in a wrong way by those who think Salvation is by works.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> "I believe the word </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>cultivate</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> means just what you said, to loosen the soil so the rain and air can get to the roots so the plant may grow strong and bear fruit. One of the main purposes in cultivating too is to get rid of the weeds, for if they are allowed to grow, the tender plant is robbed of its vigour and cannot bear much fruit." </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> "Yes, I have followed the old horse drawn cultivator you speak of and sometimes the sun was pretty hot, and often it was dusty. Of course corn and soybeans were the main crops we cultivated, and we nearly always cultivate them three times during the season." </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> "Father always said the first cultivation was the main one, when the plants were young and tender, to get rid of the weeds while they were young, for when they get well rooted it is almost impossible to get rid of them, unless by the hoe, which on big acreage is almost never done being impracticable; but the hoe is a tool for cultivation, and a good one too, as one can get close to the plants without harming them." </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> In a crop like strawberries it is about the only tool one can use and very important, for weeds and grass will soon take the strawberries if they aren't hoed. "It seems to me very interesting, and makes the passage much easier to understand, when you see that 'work out' means to </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">cultivate</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">. The more valuable the crop is, the more carefully the farmer will cultivate it. </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">How carefully and diligently we should cultivate salvation</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">." </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif">Philippians - G. Christopher Willis</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8884</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Looking unto Jesus. Hebrews 12:2 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Unto Jesus</strong></span> and not at the world, its customs, its example, its rules, its judgments;--</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Unto Jesus</strong></span> and not at Satan, though he seek to terrify us by his fury, or to entice us by his flatteries.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">--Oh! from how many useless questions we would save ourselves, from how many disturbing scruples, from how much loss of time, dangerous dallyings with evil, waste of energy, empty dreams, bitter disappointments, sorrowful struggles, and distressing falls, by looking steadily unto Jesus, and by following Him wherever He may lead us. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Then we shall be too much occupied with not losing sight of the path which He marks out for us, to waste even a glance on those in which He does not think it suitable to lead us. <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Unto Jesus</strong></span> and not at our creeds, no mater how evangelical they may be. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The faith which saves, which sanctifies, and which comforts, is not giving assent to the doctrine of salvation; it is being united to the person of the Saviour. "<em>I<u>t is not enough</u></em>", said Adolphe Monod, "<em><u>to know about Jesus Christ</u>, <u>it is necessary to have Jesus Christ.</u></em>" <br /><br />To this, one may add, that no one truly <u>knows Him</u>, if he does not <u>first possess Him</u>. According to the profound saying of the beloved disciple, it is in the Life, there is Light, and it is in Jesus there is Life. <span style="color: blue;">(<strong>John 1:4</strong>)</span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">(Translated from the French of Theodore Monod by Helen Willis) </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8885</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Your lamb shall be without blemish, a male of the first year. Exodus 12:5 </strong></span><br /><br />Israel was to be delivered from the bondage of Egypt by the great power of God. But before taking them out, God required that they must be redeemed by blood. A sacrifice of a lamb was to take place, and the blood be put on the door posts and lintels of the houses. Where no blood was applied, at least one person in the house died that night. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The sacrifice must be a lamb, the figure of lowly submission. It is a type of the Lord Jesus, the only sacrifice satisfactory to God. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">The lamb must be <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"without blemish."</strong></span> Who can possibly fit this requirement among men? Because of many spiritual and moral blemishes not one of us is suited to be such a sacrifice. The sacrifice must be pure, for no sinner could take away the sins of another. The Lord Jesus is the only One who can qualify for this. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The lamb must be a <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"yearling"</strong></span>. It was to be eaten, and of course its tenderness is therefore implied. Who was tenderhearted enough to offer Himself as a sacrifice for our sins? Only the Lord Jesus. <u>He was not forced to do such a thing, but willingly gave Himself</u>. Wonderful grace and love! </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The lamb must also be <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"a male,"</strong></span> the stronger of the two genders. The emphasis therefore is on the fact that the sacrifice must be strong enough for the tremendous work of bearing sin and the sins of multitudes of people. We may think that one person could only rightly be a substitute for one another. If the Lord Jesus were merely man, this would be a difficulty. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>But He is the eternal Son of God</strong></u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, not a finite being such as we are, but infinite. All the finite beings together could never reach an infinite number. But Christ is strong enough to embrace an infinite number of people, and to redeem them all from their sins, because He Himself is infinite. Wonderful is this pure, strong, willing sacrifice! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Lord is Near </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8886</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Men ought always to pray, and not to faint. Luke 18:1</strong></span><br /><br />Prayer which takes the fact that past prayers have not been answered as a reason for </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">languor, has already ceased to be the prayer of faith. To the prayer of faith the fact that prayers remain unanswered is only evidence that the moment of the answer is <strong><em>so much nearer</em></strong>. <br /><br />From first to last, the lessons and examples of our Lord all tell us that prayer which cannot persevere and urge its plea importunately, and renew, and renew itself again, and gather strength from every past petition, is not the prayer that will prevail. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">William Arthur</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. <br /><br />The motto of David Livingstone was in these words, "<u>I determined never to stop until I had come to the end and achieved my purpose</u>." By unfaltering persistence and faith in God he conquered.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">In shady, green pastures, so rich and so sweet, God leads His dear children along;<br />Where the water's cool flow bathes the weary one's feet,<br />God leads His dear children along. <br /><br />Some through the waters, some through the flood, some through the fire,<br />But all through the blood; some through great sorrow, but God gives a song,<br />In the night season and all the day long. <br /><br />Some times on the mount where the sun shines so bright,<br />God leads His dear children along; sometimes in the valley,<br />In darkest of night, God leads His dear children along. <br /><br />Though sorrows befall us and evils oppose,<br />God leads His dear children along; through grace we can conquer,<br />Defeat all our foes, God leads His dear children along.</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">G.A. Young</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8887</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 16px;">YE ARE NOT YOUR OWN</span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Ye are not your own for ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's. 1 Corinthians 6:19,20 </strong></span><br /><br />Let us remember as such who have been reconciled and have redemption through His blood that we are bought with a price. Through His death we are positionally dead; all who believe on Him have died. We are dead to the law, to the world, to sin. But are we truly living, walking and acting as such who have died, dead to sin and alive unto God? <br /><br />A child of God who walks after the flesh practically denies the power and value of the blessed finished work of Christ on the cross.<br /><br />Let us exalt in our ives, by our words and deeds, the cross of Christ. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"But God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world" Galatians 6:14.</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">The Work of Christ - A. C. Gaebelein</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8888</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>I thank Thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because Thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes. </strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Matthew 11:25</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Christ could never lack divine wisdom. But with us it is very possible that wisdom may be lacking, even when will is subject, and we truly desire to do the will of God. Therefore the promise follows, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not." (James 1:5) </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Absence of will, obedience, and the spirit of confiding dependence which waits on God, characterise the new life.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We pass through tribulation in the world; but this life develops itself in these qualities. But it is necessary this confidence should be in exercise; otherwise we can receive nothing. It does not honour God to distrust HIm. <br /><br />Such a man is double-minded, like a wave of the sea driven by the wind. He is unstable, because his heart is not in communion with God; he does not live in a way known to Him; such an one is, of course, unstable </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(James 1:6-8)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">If a believer keeps in the presence of God, near Him, he knows Him, and will understand His will; he will not have a will of his own, and will not wish to have one; not only on the ground of obedience, but because he has more confidence in the thoughts of God concerning him than he has in his own will. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">James - J.N. Darby</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Submission to the will of Him Who guides me still,<br />Is surety of His love revealed; my soul shall rise above,<br />This world in which we move; I conquer only where I yield.</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">C. Austin Miles</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8889</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong>God saw their works, that they turned from their evil way...but it displeased Jonah exceedingly and he was very angry. And he prayed. Jonah 3:10, 4:1</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Displeasure and anger do not make a very good beginning to prayer, so perhaps we need not wonder when we hear what he prayed. Though he addressed his words to God, it is only too evident that his eyes were on himself, and on what he fancied were his wrongs. This is not the first prayer of Jonah to which we have listened. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">How different was this prayer, from the one sent up to God from the belly of the great fish! At that time his eyes were toward God's holy mountain. He was looking away from self to God, but now he was looking away from God to self. It may be that we have prayed in a very similar state of mind. It may be that we have gone to God to complain or to accuse, instead of to beseech. It may be that instead of lifting up our eyes to heaven, as our Lord did when He prayed </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(John 17:1),</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> we have turned our eyes down to ourselves, or around to our brethren, and the sights that we see in either case almost surely make us displeased and angry. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Let us look for a moment at Jonah's prayer. Surely it was only grace that could call it a </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>prayer</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">, for we will see that there was little about it that conformed to a true prayer. He begins: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Ah, Jehovah, was not this my saying when I was yet in my country?"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> This is a question, not a prayer--and a question put to Jehovah in order to justify himself for the very sin and disobedience that had already brought such terrible chastisement on him, and of which we thought he had truly repented. Then note these words, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"my saying...my country." (Jonah 4:2).</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Can we not see the pride of self and pride of country, just, sticking out here? Are we any better? Which of us does not naturally like to speak of himself, and repeat </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"my saying,"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> tell what I have said, and prove that I was right? It might have been one of us speaking, instead of Jonah the prophet: only then we would not be so hard on the speaker. And Jonah had quite forgotten that, after all, the country was God's country, and not his. The Lord had definitely said, of that particular country,<br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"The land is Mine." (Leviticus 25:23)</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lessons from Jonah - G. C, Willis </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8890</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 28</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">USELESS OR USEFUL OCCUPATION</strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in Thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my Redeemer. <br />Psalm 19:14 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">What about our letter writing? Have we not been tempted (and fallen before the temptation), according to our various dispositions, to let the hand that holds the pen move at the impulse to write an unkind thought of another;<br /><br />- or to say a clever and sarcastic thing,<br />- or a slightly, exaggerated thing, which will make our point more telling;<br />- or to let out a grumble or a suspicion;<br />- or to let the pen run away with us into flippant and trifling words, unworthy of<br /> our high and holy calling?</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Have we not drifted away from the golden reminder, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"<u>Should he reason with unprofitable talk? or with speeches wherewith he can do no good</u>?" (Job 15:3)</strong></span> Why has this been, perhaps again and again? Is it not for want of putting our hands into our dear Master's hand, and asking and trusting Him to keep them? He </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>could</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> have kept; He <strong><em>would</em></strong> have kept! Whatever our work or our special temptations may be, the principle remains the same, only let us apply it for ourselves. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">I look up to my Father, and know that I am heard,<br />And ask Him for the glowing thought, and for the <u>fitting</u> <u>word</u>;<br />I look up to my Father, for I cannot write alone.<br />'Tis sweeter far to seek His strength than lean upon my own</span><br /><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Opened Treasures - Frances Ridley Havergal</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8891</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>SPIRITUAL REFRESHMENT FROM THE ROCK</em></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">And did all drink the same spiritual drink: for they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ. 1 Corinthians 10:4 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>Water was in the rock</u>, <u>but until smitten</u>, <u>it did not give forth water</u>--<u>so it was with Christ</u>. And now He is revealed to us in heaven as the eternal Son of God, who was smitten for us. We can turn to Him and say, "There is our spring of living water; He is ours. We have got eternal life in Him as a well of water springing up." All the way through the wilderness, the water flowed to slake their thirst, to refresh them; all the way, and it spoke blessedly of Christ. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The freshness of heart in Christ was always the same. You and I get so weary in our experience of the wilderness, but Christ's heart is never wearied. It is as freshly set on the bride as when God chose us in Him before the foundation of the world.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Whatever the mind is most fixed upon, and is ever turning to, gives its impression to the mind. If my feelings and thoughts are fixed on Christ, I get the imprint of Christ. If I am ever turning to Him in all His heavenly measure of love, I shall get the impression of it.<br /><br />He does not forget us toiling through the wilderness and the sands of the desert. He is with us all the way, and all freshness is in Him. I may be a way-worn pilgrim, but there I shall find freshness--a spring of cold water to refresh me just when fainting in the wilderness. Oh, that love in the heart of Christ that knows no weariness, no dragging steps, no hanging down of the hands. Oh, the freshness of Christ's love and the brightness of that water forever flowing in incomparable purity and freshness! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">G. V. Wigram</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">On to Canaan's rest still wending, e'en thy wants and woes shall bring<br />Suited grace from high descending, thou shalt taste of mercy's spring.</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> <em><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif">J.N.Darby</span></strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8892</span><br /><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 30</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">And He said unto them, with desire I have desired to eat this passover with you before I suffer. Luke 22:15 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The storm was gathering outside, preparations for his arrest and condemnation and crucifixion were being rapidly completed, and Judas, who knew all about it, sat there at the table with Him, with the price of his treachery in his bag. And Jesus knew all this. Never before had the powers of darkness been so stirred; this was the supreme hour; men were but the puppets on the stage, guilty puppets, playing their part with willing hearts; but behind them were the forces of evil determined to crush that one lowly Man, and to finish forever at one blow their long fight with God--and Jesus knew this. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But His disciples, and we, were His one thought. They loved Him, but He loved them more; and it was His desire, not theirs, that had brought them together for that sacred occasion. The Passover Feast commemorated the deliverance of Israel from Egypt; the lamb roasted with fire upon which they fed year by year turned the eye of faith forward to His coming. And now He had come, and there He sat to share with them that meal which spoke so eloquently of what He would do. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It was at the Passover Feast that He instituted the supper, which we know and love as </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>the Lord's Supper</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(1 Corinthians 11)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; and this He did entirely in view of His absence from them. He was to be no more with them, and they would miss His blessed company; and the measure in which they would miss Him would show the measure of their love to Him. <br /><br />And so it is now: the Lord is not here; He has no place in the world; its politics, social circles, pleasures, and schemes have no room for Him. Are we conscious of His absence, and of this? If we love Him we shall miss Him and shall long for the time when He shall come to take us to His Father's house, that where He is we may be also. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. T, Mawson</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8893</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>And the Lord went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night. </strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Exodus 13:21 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">What is of importance to notice here is that the people of Israel were divinely guided on their march. He who selected their path guided them in it, went before them in the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night, in all their wanderings. These gracious symbols of His presence He never took from them as long as they were in the wilderness. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>This is only an illustration of the truth, that the Lord is ever the guide of His people</u>. He who leads them out of Egypt may ever be seen before them in the path on which they have entered. He never says, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Go"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; but His word is always, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Follow Me."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> He Himself is the Way, as well as the Truth and the Life </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(John 14:6)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It is quite true that we have not the visible guidance which the children of Israel enjoyed; but it is no less discernible and certain to the spiritual eye. The Word is a lamp to our feet and a light to our path </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Psalm 119:105)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. It is interesting to remark that there was no such guidance in Egypt or in the land. <br /><br />This brings out the important truth, that it is only in the wilderness that the indication of a way is needed. And there it is in His tenderness and mercy that the Lord leads His own, showing them the way in which they should walk, where they should rest, and when they should march, leaving nothing to them, but Himself undertaking all for them, only requiring that their eyes should be kept fixed on their Guide. Happy are the people who are thus led, and who are made willing to follow, who by grace are enabled to say, <strong><em>"Only Thou our Leader be, and we still will follow Thee."</em></strong> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Edward Dennett</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8894</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">My times are in Thy hands. Psalm 31:15 - Rejoice, with them that do rejoice, and weep with them that weep. Be kindly affectioned one to another...in honour preferring one another. Romans12: 10,15 - Look not ever man on his own things [interests] but every man also on the things [interests] of others. Philippians 2:4</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Father, I know that all my life is portioned out for me,<br />And the changes that are sure to come I do not fear to see;<br />But I ask Thee for a patient mind, intent on pleasing Thee.<br /><br />I ask Thee for a thoughtful love, through constant watching, wise,<br />To meet the glad with joyful smiles, and wipe the weeping eyes;<br />A heart at leisure from itself, to soothe and sympathize.<br /><br />I ask Thee for the daily strength to none that ask denied,<br />A mind to blend with outward life while keeping at Thy side; <br />Content to fill a little space if Thou be glorified.<br /><br />In service which Thy love appoints there are no bonds for me;<br />My inmost heart is taught the truth that makes Thy children free:<br />A life of self renouncing love is one of liberty.<br /><br />Wherever in the world I am, in whatsoever estate,<br />I have a fellowship with hearts to keep and cultivate;<br />And a work of lowly love to do for the Lord on whom I wait.<br /><br />So I ask Thee for daily strength to none that ask denied,<br />And a mind to blend with outward life while keeping at Thy side;<br />Content to fill a little space if Thou be glorified.<br /><br />There are briars besetting every path that call for patient care;<br />There is a cross in every lot, and an earnest need for prayer;<br />But a lowly heart that leans on Thee is happy anywhere. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Anna Waring 1823-1910</span></span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8895</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>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 thy heart. Deuteronomy 8:2 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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 </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">ignorance of self</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, whereas it really depends on our Knowledge of God. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">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), <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He humbled thee, and suffered thee to hunger</strong></span> [not that you might be driven to despair, but that he might feed] <span style="color: blue;"><strong>thee with the manna...thy raiment waxed (grew) not old upon thee, neither did thy foot swell, these forty years."</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Thou shalt remember!"</strong></span> 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! <br /><br />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. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif">C. H. Mackintosh</span></strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8896</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">July 4</span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-44049935783883114142022-05-01T07:15:00.036-04:002022-05-30T06:41:51.736-04:00Gems from May 2022<p><strong style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made. (John 1:3) For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers; all things were created by Him" (Colossians 1:16).</strong></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When this perfect creation was ruined by the entrance of sin, when man fell and all creation on account of that fall was brought into the bondage of corruption, the work of redemption became a necessity. No creature of God was fitted or fit to do this. Only the Son of God, the Creator Himself, could undertake this mighty work and accomplish it to the Praise and Glory of God. To do this great work, He had to appear on this earth in the form of man.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">This work of the Son of God has a threefold aspect. It is a <u>past work</u>, a <u>present work</u> and beyond the present there is His <u>future work</u>. His work and service will terminate when He delivers up the kingdom, so that God will be all in all </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(1 Corinthians 15: 24-28).</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> It has a special meaning for the church. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for it." (Ephesians 5:25-27)</strong></span> This is His past work. <br /><br />Since then He is sanctifying the the church by the washing of water by the Word, and in the future He will present it to Himself, a glorious church. In virtue of this threefold work of our Lord, <u>believers are saved</u>, <u>are being saved</u>, and <u>will be saved</u>. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">A. C. Gabelein - The Work of Christ.</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8832</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall. 2 Peter 1:10 </strong></span><br /><br /><strong>Diligence</strong>: constant effort to accomplish what is undertaken. The characteristics of diligence are: (1) a destination or objective, (2) the power to get there, and (3) the purpose of heart to continue in spite of whatever looms up to discourage. <br /><br />If you look up <strong>"diligence"</strong> in either an English or French dictionary, one of the meanings is <strong>"a stage-coach"</strong>. <strong>Diligence</strong> was the term applied in Quebec in the days before trains, to a <strong>"coach"</strong> that ran between towns on a schedule. This was an appropriate use of the word given the characteristics listed earlier.<br /><br />(1) A destination or objective: Certainly the reason for taking the coach down the bumpy roads of early Quebec was to get to a desired destination town. Each believer has the objective of living out the new life that is in us through the work of Christ; that is, making our <span style="color: blue;"><strong style="font-size: 16px;"><em>calling and election sure</em></strong> </span> <strong><em><span style="color: blue;">(2 Peter 1:10)</span></em></strong>. Not that we are responsible for the fact that it is <strong style="font-size: 16px;"><em>"sure"</em></strong>, but making that fact assured in our own hearts and then demonstrating it to others. <br /><br />(2) The power to get there: The passenger on a <strong style="font-size: 16px;"><em>"diligence"</em></strong> had no direct power to get it over the road to their destination. That power resided in sturdy horses, commanding coachman and reliable coach. So for the believer; the power to be diligent in spiritual things does not come from us, it comes from the Lord by His Spirit working within us. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure." (Philippians 2:13)</strong></span><br /><br />(3) The purpose of heart to continue: There was no point in getting off the coach midway in the wilderness. The journey once begun needed to be completed, even if the road was boggy and slow, or the cold penetrated the unheated coach, or highwaymen threatened. For the believer, we need to <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Continue thou in the things which thou has learned." (2 Timothy 3:14)</strong></span> Whatever comes our way, it is important to continue thus all the way to our ultimate destination, heaven. <br /><br />Our coachman is the Lord. He knows the way; He knows the dangers, and HE WILL bring us safely to the end of our journey. Meanwhile, trust Him, to keep us safely on course, while we diligently seek to remain assured of our relationship with Him, and diligently demonstrate this to others by our love, our patience and our words.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lorne Perry</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8833 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">As we meditate on this first chapter of Jonah, and follow the disobedient servant of Jehovah along his pathway from his home in Gath-Hepher, down, down, down, till </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">he reaches the belly of the fish, and thus saves the heathen sailors, we may realize that all this pathway is a picture of the perfect, obedient Servant of Jehovah, our Lord Jesus Christ.<br /><br />He went down, down, down--down from His home in the glory, down to the manger, and from thence down to the cross, and down into the grave, and so saves us poor sinners. How marvellously is that pathway traced for us in </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Philippians.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross." Philippians 2:5-8</strong></span><br /><br />Little wonder that the Spirit of God should then burst forth: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Wherefore God also hath exalted Him, and given Him a name which is above every name: that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lessons From Jonah - G. C. Willis</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8834</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>NOW OR NEVER</strong></em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>They that were ready went in . . . and the door was shut. Matthew 25:10<br /><br />When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut the door . . . he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not. (Luke 13:25) </strong></span><br /><br />There are plenty of things besides immediate death which may just as effectually prevent your ever coming to Christ at all, if you do not come now. This might be your last free hour for coming. <br /><br />Tomorrow the call may be less urgent, and the other things entering in may deaden it, and the grieved Spirit may withdraw and cease to give you even your present inclination to listen to it, and so you may drift on and on, farther and farther from the haven of safety (into which you may enter <em>NOW </em>if you will), till it is out of sight on the horizon. <br /><br />And then it may be too late to turn the helm, and the current may be too strong; and when the storm of mortal illness at last comes, you may find that you are too weak mentally or physically to rouse yourself even to hear, much less to come. What can one do when fever or exhaustion are triumphing over mind and body? Do not risk it. Come now! and <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." (Isaiah 1:18)</strong></span> . </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">What will you do without Him, in the long and dreary day<br />Of trouble and perplexity, when you do not know the way,<br />And no one else can help you, and no one guides you right,<br />And hope comes not with morning, and rest comes not with night. </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Opened Treasures - Frances Ridley Havergal</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8835</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Remove not the ancient landmark, which thy fathers have set. Proverbs 22:28 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Among the property owned jointly by two young brothers who were carpenters was the old tumble-down place of their birth. One of the brothers was soon to be married and the old house was to be torn down and a new one erected on its site. For years neither of the brothers had visited the cottage, as it had been leased.<br /><br />As they entered now and started the work of demolishing the place, again and again floods of tender memories swept over them. By the time they reached the kitchen they were well-nigh overcome with their emotions. There was the place where the old kitchen table had stood--with the family Bible--where they had knelt every evening. They were recalling now with a pang how in later years they had felt a little superior to that time-honoured custom carefully observed by their father.<br /><br />Said one: "We're <strong><em>better off</em></strong> than he was, but we're not <strong>better men</strong>. <br /><br />The other agreed, saying, "I'm going back to the old church and the old ways, and in my new home I'm going to make room for worship as Dad did." </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>The strength of a nation lies in the homes of its people. Abraham Lincoln </strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Says Dr. J. G. Paton: "No hurry for market, no rush for business, no arrival of friends or guests, no trouble or sorrow, no joy or excitement, ever prevented us from kneeling around the family altar while our father offered himself and his children to God." And on his father's life in his home was based Dr. Paton's decision to follow the Lord wholly. "He walked with God--why not I?" </span><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"><br />Springs in the Valley</span></strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Stand ye in the . . . old paths, where is the good way." (Jeremiah 6:16)</strong></span><br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8836</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>And there were also two other, malefactors, led with Him to be put to death. And when they were come to the place, which is called Calvary, there <u>they crucified Him</u>, and the malefactors, one on the right hand, and the other on the left. Luke 23:32-33</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">These four words describe the most terrible scene enacted upon earth--<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"THERE THEY CRUCIFIED HIM."</strong></span> The place, a graveyard; the actors, the whole civilized world; the act, the cruelest and most shameful form of death; the victim, God's own beloved Son! The selected spot was a graveyard--Calvary, Golgotha, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"the place of a skull." (Matthew 27:33).</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">And why there? Had not Jesus talked about life? Had He not raised the dead? Had He not unstopped deaf ears, and given sight to the blind? Had He not done many wonderful miracles? Had He not talked about the Lord of Life coming from glory; and had He not spoken about being the Son of God? He had. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">And why did they take Him there? To insult Him in that graveyard. They use the signs of death on every hand to mock Him who was the Lord of Life. They bring Him, who was </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"the resurrection and the life," (John 11:25)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, to the scene where there is every evidence of death around Him, as much as to say, Let us see if you can avoid death. It was the most solemn mockery. They had crowned Him with thorns, and now they put Him to death.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But see what that death meant as viewed by God. It was this--that He who was Lord of Life came into the scene of death that He might bring life to us. As regards the world, it was the violent effort to get rid of God and of His Son. And the world is unchanged today; <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"There they crucified Him"</strong></span> is the declaration of what the world's estimate of Christ is. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Seekers for Light - W. T. P. Wolston, M.D.</span></strong></span></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8837 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips. Psalm 141:3 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 14px;">Let me no wrong or idle word, unthinking say;<br />Set Thou a seal upon my lips--just for today. </span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Keep still! When trouble is brewing, keep still! When slander is getting on its legs, keep still! When your feelings are hurt, keep still till you recover from your excitement at any rate! Things look different through and un-agitated eye.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">In a commotion once I wrote a letter and sent it, and wished I had not. In my later years I had another commotion and wrote another long letter; my life had rubbed a little sense into me, and I kept that letter in my pocket until I could look it over without agitation, and without tears, and I was glad I did--less and less it seemed necessary to send it. I was not sure it would do any harm, but in my doubtfulness I learned reticence, and eventually it was destroyed, <br /><br />Time works wonders! Wait till you can speak calmly and then perhaps you will not need to speak. Silence is the most powerful thing conceivable, sometimes. It is strength in its grandeur; it is like a regiment ordered to stand still in the mad fury of battle. To plunge in were twice as easy. <strong><em>Nothing is lost by learning to keep still.</em></strong></span><strong><em> </em></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Lord, keep me still, Though stormy winds may blow,<br />And waves my little bark may overflow, or even if in darkness I must go,<br />Yet keep me still, yet keep me still. <br /><br />Lord, keep me still, the waves are in Thy hand, the roughest winds subside at Thy command. Steer Thou my bark in safety to the land,<br />And keep me still, and keep me still.<br /><br />Lord, keep me still, and may I ever hear Thy still small voice <br />To comfort and to cheer; so shall I know and feel Thee ever near.<br />And keep me still, and keep me still.</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Selected</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8838</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>"ALL THINGS ARE YOURS"</strong></em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>For all things are your's; whether Paul, or Apollos, or Cephas, or the world, or life, or death, or things present, or things to come; all are your's; And ye are Christ's; and Christ is God's. 1 Corinthians 3:21-23 </strong></span><br /><br />Then take Him for everything, salvation, strength, guidance, every need of the whole man. <span style="color: blue;"><strong> "Having nothing, and yet possessing all things (2 Corinthians 6:10)</strong></span>--blessed paradox! I bring Him my nothingness and take His allness. <em><strong>"Nothing in my hand I bring, simply to Thy Cross I cling." </strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>(Agustus Toplady)</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> From nothing to everything!<br /><br />And there is power to do. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me" (Philippians 4:13)</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong> "And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work. (2 Corinthians 9:8).</strong></span><br /><br />I am not just to enjoy all this for myself. All things are mine except myself. I am not my own, I am "<span style="color: blue;"><strong>bought with a price: therefore </strong></span><strong>I ought to</strong><span style="color: blue;"><strong> glorify God in my body and in my spirit, which are God's (1 Corinthians 6:19,20)</strong></span>.<br /><br />Move out of Nothing into Everything! It is all in Christ and it is all for you. And you are then not a <strong><em>despository</em></strong> but a <em><strong>dispenser. <span style="color: blue;">"Freely ye have received, freely give." Matthew 10:8</span></strong> </em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><em>Day by Day -Vance Havner</em></span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>N.J. Hiebert - 8839</em></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>SURVIVING THE STRAIN</strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Take, my brethren, the prophets, who have spoken in the name of the Lord, for an example of suffering affliction, and of patience. James 5:10 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The individual whose life has been exposed to stormy weather and survived the strain is most often the one with a quiet inner calm, a sweet serenity of spirit.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Beyond and above this, the picturesque trees above timberline--the battered, beaten, bent, and beautiful trees of the high country--possess the finest aroma. Their wood is impregnated with pitch and resins that act as lubricants between the flexing fibers of their wind-tossed timber. When this wood is sawn and planed and shaped under the master craftsman's cutting tools, its fragrance fills the air and all the building. <br /><br />Such perfume is produced only by adversity.<br />God, give me grace to thank Thee for hardship. <br />When I do, my life and spirit will grow beautifully winsome--not bitter or cynical.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Songs of My Soul - W. Phillip Keller</span></strong></span></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8840</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>They that dwell under His shadow shall return; they shall revive as the corn, and grow as the vine. </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Hosea 14:7 </strong></span><br /><br />The day closed with heavy showers. The plants in my garden were beaten down before the pelting storm, and I saw one flower that I had admired for its beauty and loved for its fragrance exposed to the pitiless storm. The flower fell, shut up its petals, dropped its head; and I saw that all its glory was gone. "I must wait till next year," I said, "before I see that beautiful thing again." <br /><br />The night passed, and morning came; the sun shone again, and the morning brought strength to the flower. The light looked at it, and the flower looked at the light. There was contact and communion, and power passed into the flower. It held up its head, opened its petals, regained its glory, and seemed fairer than before. I wonder how it took place--this feeble thing coming into contact with the strong thing, and gaining strength!<br /><br />I cannot tell how it is that I should be able to receive into my being a power to do and to bear by communion with God, but I know it is a fact.<br /><br />Are you in peril through some crushing, heavy trial? Seek this communion with Christ, and you will receive strength and be able to conquer. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I will strengthen thee." (Philippians 4:13)</strong></span> </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Selected</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8841</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And He maketh me to lie down in green </strong></span><span style="color: blue;"><strong>pastures. Psalm 23:2</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Have you ever felt discouraged in prayer because words would not come? Often our Lord Jesus turned Bible words into prayer. The Psalm book was the prayer book of the early church. It is ours still. We cannot ever fathom the depths of the book. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">Is any among </span></span><span style="font-size: 16px;"><span style="color: blue;">you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms. James 5:13</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">H. Moule said that a hymnbook was a good prayer book, too. Real hymns, like real songs, are born only when the soul is very near God. This is why they have power to help. They offer words to us when we have none of our own. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord. (Ephesians 5:19)</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Thank God for our hymns and songs and books. Above all, thank God for His Book of books,</span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> The Bible</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. Is there a need it cannot meet? Is there a dryness it cannot refresh? Not one. In a place of green grass, there He has made me dwell. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Whispers of His Power - Amy Carmichael</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Jesus saith unto them, How many loaves have ye? Go and see. And when they knew, they say, Five, and two fishes. And He commanded them to make all sit down by companies upon the green grass. And they did all eat and were filled. (Mark 6:38,39,42)</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8842</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 11</span></div><div><br /></div><div><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">A TRUE SERVANT DOES NOT ATTRACT ATTENTION TO HIMSELF <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ. Galatians 6:14 </span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Daniel could have used the crisis in the palace of Babylon as an opportunity to glorify himself, he studiously avoids doing so. Daniel told the king, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"There is a God in heaven that revealeth secrets, and maketh know to the king Nebuchadnezzar what shall be in the later days. ...But as for me, this secret is not revealed to me for any wisdom that I have more than any living.</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Daniel 2:28.30 </strong></span>Daniel made it his business to ensure that he was given no credit for the revelation, and that glory was ascribed to God alone. <br /><br />We are living in days when men vie with each other for a place in the lime light. Whether it be in the political arena, the sports field, or wherever, man is always striving for self-glorification. Sadly this spirit is also at work among the people of God. Remember when the Lord was nearing the cross and the disciples were striving among themselves as to <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"who should be the greatest" (Mark 9:34).</strong></span> <br /><br />As the servants of God we cannot allow ourselves to be caught up in the frenzied attempt to get the glory. We have to remind ourselves constantly that, at best, we are only servants. The Apostle Paul grasped this when he tells us that everything that man would count as a credit towards self, he counted but dung. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ...and do count them but dung that I may win </strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Christ...</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 3:7,8) - (2:5)</strong></span>, and he went on to describe the downward path taken by the Lord Jesus, which culminated </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">in the cross. <br /> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">May God grant us the same spirit of self-effacement that we see in Daniel, refusing to take any glory to ourselves. We are but bond-slaves. The glory belongs to Him whom we serve, and to Him alone. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">W Burnett - Daniel</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8843 </span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; Hear ye Him. </strong></span></span></span><strong style="background-color: white; color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Matthew 17:5</strong></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">God's beloved Son, the Author of life, entered a scene of disease and death but remained untainted, unspotted, flawless and faultless. He took on Himself human flesh, partook of our humanity and unresistingly went to <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Gethsemane,</strong></span> <strong><span style="color: blue;">Gabbatha</span> <span style="color: blue;">(John 19:13)</span></strong> and <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Golgotha</strong></span>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">There He would make reconciliation between a righteous God and the fallen man He had created in His image!</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Drew Craig </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Lamb of God! when we behold Thee<br />Lowly in the manger laid;<br />Wandering as a homeless stranger <br />In the world Thy hands had made;<br />When we see Thee in the garden <br />In Thine agony of blood,<br />At Thy grace we are confounded,<br />Holy, spotless Lamb of God!<br /><br />When we see Thee as the Victim <br />Nailed to the accursèd tree,<br />For our guilt and folly stricken,<br />All our judgment borne by Thee,<br />Lord, we own, with hearts adoring,<br />Thou hast washed us in Thy blood:<br />Glory, glory everlasting,<br />Be to Thee, Thou Lamb of God!</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. G. Deck</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8844 </span></span></span></div></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now life in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me. Galatians 2:20 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Not only has my Saviour paid my mighty debt, but He has bought me. I am His, altogether His, and His only. What love! What grace! How can I doubt </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>Him</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">? Yet this is what the Galatians were doing. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">God is satisfied with that price, but the senseless Galatians had forgotten. And they wanted to add their own works, circumcision, and the law, to the price that Christ had paid.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">If I owe a mighty debt, and my friend pays every cent of it for me, and hands me the receipt, how can I add a further payment? This is what the Galatians were doing. If a man pays a great price to set a slave free, why should the freed slave add to the price that is already completed? But this is what the Galatians were doing. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">They could not, or they would not, trust to Christ alone. They wish to add their own wretched works. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong> "O foolish (senseless) Galatians!" (Galatians 3:1)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> . </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">This salvation was all </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"according to the will of our God and Father."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> On the one hand </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Christ gave Himself," (Galatians 2:20)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> on the other hand </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son. (John 3:16) </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">They have one mind in rescuing poor lost sinners. Well may the Apostle exclaim, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"To whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen!" (Galatians 1:5)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Gladly do we who believe also say </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Amen"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Meditations on Galatians - G.C. Willis </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8845</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. John 3:16.</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>ORIGINAL TITANIC BOARDING PASS: "Designed by the elite in engineering, built by the best in the business, and crewed by the cream of the White Star line, this new ship incorporates the very latest advances in science and technology and features every modern convenience to ensure you the ultimate in SAFETY and comfort. Enjoy your voyage - Edward J. Smith, Captain"</em></strong><br /> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">In April 1912 the passengers and crew of the famous and ill-fated Titanic, set out from Southhampton, England--bound for New York, USA--with very high expectations. For a few days, all went well. Then, disaster! On April 15, the ship struck an iceberg in the dead of night and sank in less than three hours--and more than two-thirds of the 2,224 people who had been aboard went down with the ship.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">They made elaborate plans. They set out with great expectation--only to meet with disappointment, or worse. How many of the Titanic passengers would have abandoned the ship before it sailed had they known that the ship was doomed. They believed what they had read and heard. And, had they heard otherwise, would they have believed it? This world is a doomed ship--just as certainly as the Titanic </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Men have tried their best and done their worst. Many today are desperately occupied with trying to improve a world which they recognize is in very bad shape and getting worse. Scientists, politicians abound with suggestions, and many around us are making frantic efforts to plug the holes and to paint the ship. Others are just as desperately pursuing passing pleasures--apparently indifferent to current conditions and to coming catastrophe. All are doomed--by sin.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"There is is none righteous, no, not one: there is none that seeketh after God....There is none that doeth good, no, not one. All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:10-12, 23).</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />Because of sin, this world, and everybody in it, faces judgment: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">God commandeth all men everywhere to repent: because He hath appointed a day in the which He will judge the world in righteousness by the that Man whom He hath ordained; whereof He hath given assurance unto all men, in that He raised Him from the dead" Acts 17:30-31</span> </strong> The Titanic did not have adequate lifeboats and there was no help at hand when the ship went down. But because Jesus died and rose again, there is hope and immediate help. He is worthy of your trust. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved." (Acts 16:31)</strong></span> </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 13px;">BTP, Adapted</span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8846</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while. Mark 6:31</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">It should be recognized once for all that the laws of nature are the will of God for the body; and that if we violate these laws knowingly or unknowingly we will suffer. Soul and body are so strangely and so strongly interlinked that undue strain on any one of them vitally affects the other. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">Now, since manual work builds up the muscles, and mental work wears out the nerves, it is found that those who suffer most from dejection are the people who have excessive sedentary and brain work. The monotony and strain of their daily tasks have the effect of lowering the vitality of the body, and of damping the ardour of their sprits; and these in turn blur the outlook and darken the sky, depress the mind and sadden the heart.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">But despondency is not limited to such. The courageous Elijah faced over eight hundred of the enemies of God </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(1 Kings 18:19)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"> and did so unflinchingly </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(verse 27)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">. And yet, when the ordeal was over, the inevitable reaction came even to him. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"He went a day's journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die; and said, 'It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers.' " (19:4)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">But see how tenderly God dealt with him, providing just what he needed--rest and food </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(verses 5-8)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">. Ah! our Maker remembers that we are dust </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Psalm 103:14; Genesis 2:7)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">; it is we who forget it and act as if we, were made of iron. After a season of strenuous activity, the Master said to his disciples:</span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">"<strong>Come ye...rest awhile (Mark 6:31)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">. And possibly all that is needed to lift from the life of any one of us the gloom and heaviness that have fallen upon it, is a little change and holiday in the country.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">If the reader is indoors all day, exercise in the fresh air, if possible is indispensable to the maintenance of health. Of the various forms of recreation none can exceed in utility work in the garden. Contact with the soil--digging, pruning, planting, watering--gives the body just the exercise which it needs, and reacts most helpfully on mind and heart and nerves. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Heaven's Cure for Earth's Care - George Henderson</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8847</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="color: blue;">David went on going and growing, and the Lord . . . was with him. 2 Samuel 5:10</span></strong><br /><br />When a believer stops <em><strong>going</strong> he ceases</em> <strong><em>growing</em></strong> also. There must be obedience to the truth of God, a "<strong>going"</strong> on in the ways that be in Christ, as they are learned from His Word. No shirking of the cross that obedience often brings with it, but steady <em><strong><span style="color: blue;">"going and growing"</span> </strong></em>steadily and constantly. <br /><br />They are the happy saints who thus go on growing, and they are fruitful ones too. They are not toppled over with every wind, for they grow like the cedar in Lebanon, striking down their roots deeper every year, and flourish like the palm tree, evergreen, amid burning deserts. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. Ritchie</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><em><strong>The cedar boughs once touched the grass;<br />But every year they grew<br />A little farther from the ground<br />And nearer to the blue.<br />So live that that you may each year be,<br />While time glides swiftly by,<br />A little farther from the earth,<br />And nearer to the sky.</strong></em></span><br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8848 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">THE WORD OF GOD AND PRAYER</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Mary . . . sat at Jesus' feet, and heard His word. </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">Luke 10:39 Lord teach us to pray. Luke 11:1 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The principle of all prevailing intercession lies in the soul entering into the thoughts of God and turning them into prayer. <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Pray for them which despitefully use you." (Luke 6:28) </strong></span> If a brother treats you coldly, if a sister speaks against you, do you make it your habit to pray for them? Oh, how different we would be, if we thus bare one another up before the Lord. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Luther said, <strong><em>"To pray well is to study well,"</em></strong> and we may add, to preach well. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">All that is outside of the Bible, all that presumes to come into competition with it and challenges the ears of men, is but a sea, an unformed mass, of opinions and reasonings. How welcome therefore to the soul, wearied in its quest after some stable foundation on which to rest in view of death and eternity, is the immutable basis laid for faith in the infallible scriptures. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">If we would be preserved from the snares of mysticism and imagination the Word of God must be the basis of our contemplations. Resting on the Word . . . we are on a sure rock, against which all the waves of error dash themselves only to be scattered as mist and foam. <br /><br />The unchanging God imparts His own character to His own truth, and it thus abides through all times as changeless in its perfections as He whose word it is. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Footprints for Pilgrims - Edward Dennett</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8849</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation. For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, because we trust in the living God, Who is the Saviour of all men, specially of those that believe. 1 Timothy 4:9-10 </strong></span><br /><br />It was because of his piety that the Apostle can say, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"for this we labour and suffer reproach"</strong></span>. We may be prepared to labour and be prominent before men, and thus labour and gain applause, or labour to exalt self. But if piety is behind our labour, it will inevitably mean labour and <strong style="font-size: 16px;"><em>reproach</em></strong>. <br /><br />The Apostle proceeds to show that the spring of piety is confidence in God. <strong style="font-size: 16px;"><em>We trust in the living God</em></strong> Who is the preserver of all men, specially of those that believe. <u>Piety is that individual confidence in God that takes up every circumstance of life in relation to God</u>.<br /><br />The unregenerate man leaves God out of his life; the believer recognizes God in all the details of life and thankfully receives, and uses, every mercy that God places within his reach, without abusing the mercies. Thus piety is the antidote to all the evil influences of the latter days.<br /><br />Personal precepts for the Servant of the Lord <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Vv 11-16)</strong></span> <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Vv 11,12)</strong></span>. These things Timothy was to enjoin and teach. Being a young man he was to be specially on his guard against any assumption or youthful pride that would mar his testimony by leading him to be despised because of his youth. <br /><br />If his exhortations and instructions to others were to be effectual, he would have, in his life, to be <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"a model of the believers" -- "in word, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity"</strong></span>. Alas! how often we mar our testimony through failing to exhibit these beautiful qualities of Christ. If the truths we teach do not affect our own lives, can we expect our teaching to affect others? </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">1 Timothy - Hamilton Smith.</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8850</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Such mighty works are wrought by His hands. Mark 6:2 </span></strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And He could there do no mighty work. Mark 6:5</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Many people knew what the Lord could do <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(vs. 2)</strong></span> but only a few sick folk were healed that day <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(vs. 5)</strong></span>. Instead of believing what they knew to be true and being blessed, they chose their own reasoning, and were impoverished. <br /><br />We, as believers, know what He has done with His hands--especially when they were nailed to a cross on our behalf! <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Psalm 111:7</strong></span> says, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"The works of His hands are verity and judgment</strong></span>.<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"</strong></span> In truth and judgment, He brought salvation and consequently <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Thou hast made Him to have dominion over the works of Thy hands." (Psalm 8:6). </strong></span>Let us thank Him today for His mighty work. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">E.N.</span></span></em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em><span style="font-size: 14px;">Before Thy throne my Surety stands, <br />My name is written on His hands. </span></em></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Charles Wesley </span></span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">When we survey the wondrous cross on which the Lord of glory died, Our richest gain we count but loss, and pour contempt on all our pride. <br /><br />Forbid it, Lord, that we should boast, Save in the death of Christ, our God; All the vain things that charm us most, We'd sacrifice them to His blood. <br /><br />There from His head, His hands, His feet, sorrow and love flowed mingled down; Did e'er such love and sorrow meet, or thorns compose so rich a crown? <br /><br />Were the whole realm of nature ours, that were an offering far too small; Love that transcends our highest powers, Demands our soul, our life, our all.</span><br /><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Isaac Watts </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8851</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God and the Word was God . . .In Him was life; and the life was the light of men. and the light shineth in the darkness: and the darkness comprehended it not. John 1:1, 4, 5. </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Not long ago a friend of mine was preaching in this town to a very large audience. At the close of the meeting, I came in contact with an excessively intelligent, and withal earnest young fellow, one of your own set. I got into conversation with him, and asked him if he were saved. He said, "How can I know?" "Well," I replied, "I know that I am saved, thank God. Don't you know it?" "No," he replied, "but I am doing my best to live a proper, moral, straight, and square life." "Quite right," I said, "that is exactly what you should do." <br /><br />"Won't that have some weight with God?" he asked. "Won't that curry favour with God?" "Well," I said, "stop a moment. Will your life compare with the life of Jesus?" He thought a minute, and then said, "What do you mean?" I mean this--Do you think your life will compare with the life of Jesus?" After thinking a little, he replied, "I could not say that. I am doing my best to live a moral, proper and square life, but I cannot say that it could compare with that of Jesus." <br /><br />Well then, "I said, "you won't do for God; because only one Man will suit Him, and that is Jesus; He is the truth. He is what man should be. A man should be holy, spotless, sinless, undefiled, absolutely devoted and true to God. That is what Jesus was." He thought a moment, and then turning round sharply to me, said, "If what you say is true, every man is lost." "Yes," I said, "you have hit the nail on the head this time. That is exactly what Scripture says. Every man is lost, and <span style="color: blue;"><strong>'the Son of Man is come to seek, and to save that which was lost.' (Luke 19:10)</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Seekers For Light - W. T. P. Wolston, M.D.</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8852</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>If any man thirst, let him come unto ME, and drink. He that believeth on ME, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. John 7:37,38. </strong></span><br /><br />I saw that it was a matter of <u>thirsting</u>, <u>coming</u>, <u>drinking</u>, <u>believing</u>, <u>overflowing</u>. There was no great emotional experience, but just as I had trusted Christ as my Saviour, so by simple faith I received the the Holy Spirit, Who dwells within. <br /><br />It has been said that the two words <em><strong>"believe"</strong></em> and <em><strong>"receive"</strong></em> are the hardest for most people to spell correctly, because it is <em><strong>"ie"</strong></em> in one and <em><strong>"ei"</strong></em> in the other. Surely, in Christian experience they are slowly learned by so many of us, and yet they are the key words in the language of things spiritual. <br /><br />To as many as REC<u>EI</u>VE Him our Lord gives the right to become the sons of God, even to them that BEL<u>IE</u>VE on His name. What things soever we desire when we pray, we are to BEL<u>IE</u>VE that we REC<u>EI</u>VE them, and we shall have them. And Jesus spoke of the Spirit which they that BEL<u>IE</u>VE on Him should REC<u>EI</u>VE. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Believe and receive the Saviour, God's gift of love divine.<br />And Christ and heaven and glory shall evermore be thine.<br /><br />Believe and receive the Saviour, forth to the conflict go,<br />With the Word, the sword of the Spirit, to meet the advancing foe.<br /><br />Go forth in the Spirit's power, in the all-prevailing name<br />Of Christ, the world's Redeemer, His Gospel to proclaim. <br /><br />Chorus: Believe and receive the Saviour, for you His blood was shed;<br />He took your sins upon Him, and suffered in your stead. </strong></em><br /><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif">J. Ward Childs</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8853</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and He shall sustain thee... Psalm 55:22 </strong></span><br /><br />Two young Christian men who lived many years ago were walking from their small village through the country side, heading towards another village where they planned to earn some money helping with the fall harvesting of crops. As they walked, they came to a wide river. There was no bridge in that particular location but since the river was shallow, people who needed to cross at that place often waded through the water. The two young men decided to do the same thing. <br /><br />When they came to the river they saw an elderly woman sitting at the edge of the water. She had come from the village with a bundle of food and some other supplies. She was quite downcast because since there was no bridge, with the weight of her burdens, she was now afraid to try to wade back across the river, fearing she would lose her balance. <br /><br />The first young man kindly spoke to her. "We will be glad to carry you across with your bundle, if you would like us to do that." The old lady was very grateful, "Oh, thank you so much" she said. "I would very much appreciate your help." The two young men joined hands together and carefully lifted the elderly woman and her bundle between them. They slowly walked through the river, carrying her to the other side. They put her down on the opposite shore and she heartily thanked them as she continued on her journey.<br /><br />After the two had walked about a mile, the second young man began to complain. "Look at my shoes and pants" he said. "They are wet and stained from carrying that woman across the river. Besides, my back is very stiff and hurts from lifting her." The first young man just smiled and nodded. After four more miles the second man began to complain again. "My back is really hurting--all because we had to carry that silly old woman across the river! I can't continue" he said "as he lay down moaning. The first man looked at him and asked; "Do you wonder why I'm not complaining? You're back hurts because you're still carrying that woman. I set her down five miles ago." </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Christian Shepherd - December 2017</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8854</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And no man putteth new wine into old bottles: else the new wine doth burst the bottles and the wine is spilled, and the bottles will be marred: but new wine must be put into new bottles. Mark 2:22</strong></span><br /><br />No man puts new wine into old wine-skins; else the wine will burst the skins, and the wine perishes, and the skins: but they put new wine into fresh wine-skins. <br /><br />The reference is to the custom of using leather bottles, made of skins, for carrying wine, and to the fact that new wine, by its increasing fermentation, would burst "old skins," which were already stretched, or worn thin by age.<br /><br />So, as Jesus suggested, it would be impossible for the old forms and ceremonies of Judaism to contain the spirit of religion as taught by Him. Christianity cannot be comprehended by any system of rites and observances, it cannot be bound up by any set of rules and requirements, it is not to be confused with any ritual.<br /><br />Its very essence is a new life, imparted by faith in Christ; it controls men, not by rules but by motives; its symbol is not a fast, but a feast, for its pervasive spirit is joy. If Christianity was to have any forms, they must be new; the followers of Christ could not be bound by the fasts and other observances which had been invented or multiplied by Jewish formalists and Pharisees.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Gospel of Mark - Charles R. Erdman</span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8855</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>An high look, and a proud heart, and the plowing of the wicked, is sin. <br />Proverbs 21:4</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">As long as man persists in rebellion against God, he can do nothing that will be acceptable in His sight. Not only are lofty eyes and a proud heart evil, but even what might otherwise be meritorious is sin while man refuses to bow in repentance before Him.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Let a province rebel against its lawful ruler, the inhabitants may carry on many useful occupations and labour diligently in them, but all are tainted with sedition, so cannot be considered profitable or right.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When they laid down their weapons at the feet of the king, and own his sway, these same occupations become pleasing and proper in his sight. So it is with man away from God, and with those who turn to Him in contrition of heart. See the Holy Spirit's estimate of Israel while God's anointed is rejected.<br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Roman's 10:1-3)</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Proverbs - H. A. Ironside</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Brethren, my heart's desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God's righteousness and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God. (Romans 10:1-3) </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">The perfect righteousness of God is witnessed in the Saviour's blood; 'Tis in the cross of Christ we trace His righteousness, yet wondrous grace.<br /><br />God could not pass the sinner by, His sin demands that He must die; But in the cross of Christ we see how God can save, yet righteous be. <br /><br />The sinner who believes is free, can say, "The Saviour died for me:" Can point to the atoning blood, and say, "This made my peace with God." </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8856</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>In My Father's house are many mansions. John 14:2 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Their earthly sun was sinking, but the stars were coming out in the in the sky to tell of a greater and and a grander universe. Somewhere in that great universe, in the infinite realms of space, God has a place which He calls His <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Home"</strong></span>; a house of many mansions, to which, one by one, He welcomes His children; and to which, sooner or later, He shall conduct all who are His.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;">"My Father's house! No strange and foreign land;<br />No wonderful new world, too coldly grand;<br />But Home--and a Father's outstretched, welcoming hand"</span></span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Those whose experiences in this world have made them conscious of homelessness and loneliness, can look forward to mansions of eternal rest. Meantime, they are strangers and pilgrims on the earth: strangers because they are </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>from</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Home; pilgrims because they are </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>going</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> home. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I will come again, and receive you unto Myself" John 14:3</strong></span>. It is the personal presence of the Lord Jesus that elicits the affections, and brings abiding rest to the heart. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>John 14:3</strong></span> tells us of the One Who is coming to conduct us Home; <span style="color: blue;"><strong>1John 3:2</strong></span>, of the transformation which takes place when we shall see Him face to face. <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>1Thessalonians 4:17</strong></span> assures us that we shall be with Him always; and <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Psalms 17:15</strong></span>, that when these things shall become an accomplished facts, we shall be abundantly and everlastingly satisfied.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Such knowledge is too wonderful for us; but the childlike acceptance of it is as being literally true, will send us joyfully along the pathway of Christian discipleship.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 14px;">"Until at last when earth's day's work is ended,<br />We meet Thee in the blessed realms above<br />From whence Thou camest, where Thou hast ascended,<br />Thy everlasting Home of peace and love.</span></em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em> </em> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Last Words - Henry Durbanville</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8857</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>By faith Abraham...offered up Isaac...his only begotten son...accounting that God was able to raise him up, even from the dead; from whence also he received him in a figure. Hebrews 11:17-19 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In Abraham we have a picture of God the Father who was willing to sacrifice His only begotten Son for our sins. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all. (Romans 8:32) </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> The heartache that Abraham experienced as he and Isaac journeyed toward Mount Moriah gives us only a small glimpse of God's heartache as He walked with His perfect Son to a mountain called Calvary. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The depth of God's love for us is shown in His willingness to give His beloved Son in sacrifice for us--with no strings attached. What a startling picture of God's great love for sinners!</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In Isaac we see our Lord Jesus as the perfect Son, completely obedient to the Father's will. The fact that Isaac, who was at least a strong teenager at the time, allowed Abraham to bind him and put him on the altar enhances the picture of the willingness of Christ to go to the cross for us. Isaac was unaware of what lay ahead, but our Lord was fully aware of what lay ahead as He walked together with the Father toward Calvary.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">And yet </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"He steadfastly set HIs face to go to Jerusalem." (Luke 9:51)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Never has there been such a determined love as that which was demonstrated in our Lord's steadfast walk to that cross which He knew lay before Him. He knew that there He would be painfully crucified and would suffer the awful judgment of God for our sins. In Isaac we catch, in picture form, a small glimpse of the perfect Son submissive to the known will of the Father.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Thus we have here what is probably one of the clearest types of the sacrifice and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">D. R. Reid</span></span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8858</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Then took Mary a pound of ointment of spikenard, very costly. John 12:3 </strong></span><br /><br />What price was paid for this ointment of spikenard? It is described as expensive, precious <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Mark 14:3)</strong></span> and very costly. For Mary no price was too high. This was her life sacrifice she was laying at Jesus' feet. <br /><br />It might have cost three hundred day's working wages, as Judas adjudged--a waste to cast at Jesus' feet. But it did not matter. Mary loved her Lord and He was going away soon. He was more important than anything or anyone else. <br /><br />But poor Judas--he was prepared to sell his Lord for just thirty pieces of silver. How distorted his perspective of life's values! <br /><u><strong>How much is Jesus Christ worth to you</strong></u>? </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">K</span></span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">C. Ung</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">I'd rather have Jesus than silver or gold;<br />I'd rather be His than have riches untold;<br />I'd rather have Jesus than houses or lands.<br />I'd rather be led by His nail-pierced hand. <br /><br />I'd rather have Jesus than men's applause;<br />I'd rather be faithful to His dear cause;<br />I'd rather have Jesus than world-wide fame;<br />I'd rather be true to His Holy name.<br /><br />He's fairer than lilies of rarest bloom;<br />He's sweeter than honey from out of the comb;<br />He's all that my hungering spirit needs,<br />I'd rather have Jesus and let Him lead. <br /><br />Chorus: Than to be the king of a vast a vast domain and be held in sin's dread sway;<br />I'd rather have Jesus than anything this world affords today.</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">R. F. Miller</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8859</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 28</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>God our Saviour; who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:3-5 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">I once heard an evangelist, exclaim, "Oh, how hard it is to find sinners! If only I could find one, I have a marvellous message for him." A moment's thought made his meaning clear. <u>To be a sinner is one thing</u>; <u>to know it is another</u>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><u style="font-size: 16px;">Repentance</u> is the recognition that I am a sinner--the acknowledging before God that I am as He has declared me to be in His Holy Word. Until one comes to this place, there is no further word from heaven for any man, except the sentence of doom. This truth does not in the least degree compromise the gospel of grace. It rather prepares the sinner to know <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"the grace of God in Truth" (Colossians 1:6)</strong></span> and to rejoice in it, reveling in the marvellous provision God has made to <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"[satisfy] the longing soul" (Psalm 107:9)</strong></span> <br /><br />Often, the gospel preacher dwells on the hopelessness of obtaining salvation by good works, when addressing men whose works are altogether evil and who have no thought of meriting life eternal, but care only for the things of this Godless world. We make it all too simple, so easy that we quite misrepresent the God of all grace, Who has in all ages first sought to show men their sinfulness and guilt, and then has offered the remedy to those who confessed to their dread disease. <br /><br /><em><strong>I am not told to labour, to put away my sin;<br />So foolish, weak and helpless,I never could begin.<br />But blessed truth, I know it! though ruined by the fall,<br />Christ for my sin hath suffered: Yes, Chris has done it all. </strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>(Author Unknown)</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Repentance is the very opposite of meritorious experience. It is the confession that one is utterly without merit, and if he is to be saved at all, it can only be through the merits of our Lord Jesus Christ, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Who gave Himself a ransom for all" (1 Timothy 2:6)</strong></span> Here is firm footing for the soul who realizes that all self-effort is nothing but sinking sand. Christ alone is the Rock of our salvation. </span><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><strong>Repent</strong></span><span style="font-size: 15px;"> - </span></span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">H. A. Ironside</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8860</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers... hath in <u>THESE</u> <u>LAST DAYS</u> spoken unto us by His Son, whom He hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also He made the worlds; who being the brightness of His glory, and the express image of His person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when He had by Himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high.</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong> Hebrews 1:1-3</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Do you ever make </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"these last days"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> a subject of thought? Why is the Spirit entitled to call the age through which we are passing the </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"last days"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">? We shall have other days after these. Why then does He call them the last days? Beautifully so--because God rests in what the Lord Jesus has accomplished, as thoroughly as He rested at the close of creation in the perfection of His own work. It is not that in the unfolding of the economy of God we shall not have other ages; yet, in the face of that, the Spirit does not hesitate to call these the <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"last days".</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In all the Lord has done He has satisfied God. He perfects everything He touches, and makes it eternal, and God does not look beyond it. Everything is set aside till Christ is brought in, but there is no looking beyond Him. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to day, and for ever." (Hebrews 13:8)</strong></span> Now the moment I get God resting in anything I get perfection; and the moment I get perfection I am in the last days.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">God has reached satisfaction, and so have I. Christ may be unfolded in millennial days; but He it is the very same Christ that we have now. Shall I get Moses then or Joshua? They are all (in the light of Christ treated) <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"beggarly elements."</strong></span> All give place one after another; but Christ being introduced to the thought of God, God rests in Him; and when you come to see where you are, you are in God's second Sabbath-- and see how one thing exceeds the other! The rest of the Redeemer is a much more blessed thing than the rest of the Creator. In Christ you have got perfection--the rest of God--and you are in the <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"last days"</strong></span>. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 14px;"> Epistle to the Hebrews - J. G. Bellett</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8861</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 30</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>G R E A T I N G A T H E R I N G</strong></em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And (Joseph said) let them gather all the food of those (seven) good years that come, and lay up corn . . . and that food shall be for store to the land against the seven years of famine . . . (Pharaoh said) thou (Joseph) shalt be over my house . . . I have set thee over all the land of Egypt . . . Genesis 41:35-41. </strong></span><br /><br />During the years of plenty Joseph uses his place of exaltation to reap a great harvest for Egypt. He deals with the harvest of Egypt during the years of plenty, he will deal with the men of Egypt during the years of famine <strong>(36-49)</strong>. <br /><br />In this day of grace the world is passing through its "seven plenteous years," when the grace of God is bestowing blessings by "handfuls." The men of the world may entirely neglect the blessings that grace brings to their door, and pursue their way quite heedless of the future. We do not read that they gathered up any food. It was Joseph that went throughout the land, and gathered up corn. <br /><br />And so today it is the exalted Christ who is reaping a harvest of souls during the day of grace. He is going through the world gathering His people out of the world. But when the days of grace have run their course He will deal with the men of the world. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><em><span style="font-size: 13px;">JOSEPH Revealer of Secrets - Hamilton Smith </span></em><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">Lord, we joy, Thy toils are ended, glad Thy suffering time is o'er, <br />To Thy Father's throne ascended, there Thou livest to die no more.<br /><br />Lord, we worship and adore Thee for Thy rich, Thy matchless grace;<br />Perfect soon in joy before Thee, we shall see Thee face to face.</span></span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">J. J. Hopkins</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8862</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 31</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">For mine eyes have seen Thy salvation. Luke 2:30</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The story of Simeon unveils the graphic photo of a man living for one thing. He was waiting for the Messiah of Israel. Then one day Mary entered the temple carrying a baby and the Messiah was there.<br /><br />Simeon's arms embraced Christ the Lord; his eyes beheld the Light and Lamp of God, the Saviour of the world. How glorious for this godly man to end a long life with his arms encircling the promised Lamb of God and his lips extolling the greatest Person to visit planet earth. Is this our heart's desire as our life progresses, to be near to Christ and praising His name? </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Les Rainey</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><em>Lord of glory, we adore Thee! Christ of God, ascended high!<br />Heart and soul we bow before Thee, glorious now beyond the sky:<br />Thee we worship, Thee we praise--<br />Excellent in all Thy ways.</em></span><br /><br /><em>Anointed King, with glory crownéd, rightful heir and Lord of all!<br />Once rejected, scorned, disownèd, E'en by those Thou cam'st to call:<br />Thee we honour, Thee adore--<br />Glorious now and evermore.<br /><br />Lord of life! to death once subject; Blesser, yet a curse once made;<br />Of Thy Father's heart the object, yet in depths of anguish laid:<br />Thee we gaze on, Thee recall--<br />Bearing here our sorrows all.<br /><br />Royal robes shall soon invest Thee, royal splendours crown Thy brow;<br />Christ of God, our souls confess Thee King and Sovereign even now!<br />Thee we reverence, Thee obey--<br />Own Thee Lord and Christ alway.</em></span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><em> </em></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Richard Holden</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8863</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus. Philippians 2:5 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The first word, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Let"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, can be interpreted </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"Permit"</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">; the thought being that there might be some hindrance to the mind of Christ being very active in us. It is important to realize that from the moment we are saved; having taken the Lord Jesus as personal Saviour, we are indeed possessors of the </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"mind of Christ"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. But, sad to say, the habits and responsibilities of life, to say nothing of passions or goals, often crowd out the "voice" of the mind of Christ from being discerned and acted upon. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It is like many of the spiritual blessings, ours from day 1 of our salvation, that are so little appreciated or put into practice, because we are so taken up with the ordinary pattern of life, and the effect it can have in blunting or diminishing the power and benefits of living according to our spiritual blessings. We may know just what those spiritual blessings are, but we do not even begin to appreciate them unless and until we work them into our daily walk. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The children of Israel were told, in <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Joshua 1:3</strong></span>, that a great territory could be theirs, way beyond the current boarders of Israel, but they first had to walk upon the whole of it; clearing out God's enemies as they went by taking strength from Him. They had some success but, in those historic times, never took it all. <br /><br />That will actually come about in a future time when the Lord Jesus, in all His power and glory, will obtain the whole territory for Israel, and go on to see that the entire world is under His dominion and benevolent reign. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lorne Perry</span></span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(PART 1)</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and, things under the earth..." Philippians 2:10</strong></span> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8864</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">"Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God...made Himself of no reputation...was made in the likeness of men...He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross...God also hath highly exalted Him...that at the name of Jesus every knee shall bow...and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father." Philippians 2:5-11</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">The mind of Christ has been described for us in very concise terms in the verses above. They trace the Lord's path from the Father's home above, into this world in the form of a man, walking in lock-step with the will of God, being obedient to the judgmental sacrifice of Himself on the cross, concluding with His triumphant resurrection, ascension and return to reign. It is in view of what marvels He accomplished for God and for us that we are instructed and encouraged to take on this same character, living daily according to how He lived.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">There are two fundamental ways in which this spirit should be seen in our lives. The first is to demonstrate brotherly love and kindness to our brothers and sisters in the Lord. The second is to reach out beyond that circle to those around us who still need to learn of their need of a Saviour; who He is and what He has done to prepare a way for them to inherit eternal life. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The Lord also showed how dependent He was on God, His Father, and how often He was in prayer giving Him thanksgiving and praise. And this becomes another grand way we can act on the Spirit of Christ within us to magnify our Lord and exalt God, who is His and our Father.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Mark 10:13-16</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> tells of mothers desiring to bring their little children to Jesus. But there was a hindrance. Some of His disciples tried to turn them away so they wouldn't bother the Lord. But Jesus saw them and said <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Suffer (or let) the little children to come unto Me"</strong></span>. The message is that we need to clear away the difficulties or interruptions that hinder the work of blessing the Lord is ready to do through us. Most often, these difficulties are within ourselves. To let the Lord work through you, "Get out of the way!" </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lorne Perry (Part 2) </span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8865</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness." </span><span style="font-size: 16px;">2 Corinthians 12:9</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Such words lead straight to a land where there is gold, and the gold of that land is good. Gold--the word recalls Job's affirmation, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"When He hath tried me I shall come forth as gold"</strong></span>; and Peter's <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"That the trial of your faith, being much more perisheth than of gold though it be tried with fire" (1 Peter 1:7)</strong></span>; and the quiet word in <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Malachi 3:3) "He shall sit as a refiner and purifier of </strong></span></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em style="font-size: 16px;">silver</em></strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>."</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">I have often thanked God that the word is not gold there, but silver. Silver is of little account in the East, and we feel more like silver than gold. But he shall sit as a refiner and purifier of </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>silver</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, so who need fear?</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">This picture of the Refiner is straight from Eastern life. The Eastern goldsmith sits on the floor by his crucible. For me, at least, it was not hard to know why the Heavenly Refiner had to sit so long. The heart knows its own dross. Blessed be the love that never wearies, never gives up hope that even in such poor metal He may at last see the reflection of His face. "How do you know when it is purified?" we asked our village goldsmith. "<u>When I can see my face in it,</u>" he answered. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Rose From Briar - Amy Carmichael</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8866</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">June 4</span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-76228394608363609832022-04-01T06:58:00.050-04:002022-04-29T06:57:58.900-04:00Gems from April 2022<p><span style="font-size: x-large;">April 1</span></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in Him; and He shall bring it to pass. Psalm 37:5</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Faith is a condition of salvation and being a condition it must be our act. Saving faith is a choice and we are responsible for our actual choices. Many people pray for faith and quote </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Ephesians 2:8, "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: and conclude that faith is the gift of God."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Instead of asking God for faith, it is their duty to believe.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When people say they cannot believe they utter a libel against God. A man in an enquiry room said to D. L. Moody, "I have no faith, I can't believe." Mr Moody said to him, "</span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Who</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> can't you believe? The man replied several times that he couldn't believe, Mr. Moody each time, asking, "Who?" </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em> </em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Finally the man replied, "I can't believe myself." "Well," said Mr. Moody, "I don't want you to. Make yourself out a liar, but make God true."</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Believe then for all God has promised. We cannot well go outside the promises of God. </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Prayer is pleading the promises</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Faith is claiming</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">them</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. There must be a </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Thus saith the Lord,"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> either expressed or implied for all we ask, and everything that God has promised is His will for us. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When your retire at night, you do not worry all night lest the bed break down. Neither do you hold on to something for fear of falling. Very little rest would you find in that way. No! you simply trust yourself to the bed and just rest. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Thus we should trust ourselves wholly to Jesus, and </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Ceased from our own works." (Hebrews 4:10)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> We that believe do enter into rest. Why? Because someone else is going to do for us. God requires us to yield and trust in Him and His word. <u>Trust for <strong><em>all</em></strong> you need</u>. <u>Trust with <em><strong>all</strong></em> your heart</u>. <u>Trust <em><strong>all</strong></em> the time</u>. </span><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Streams in the Desert</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">`<br />N. J. Hiebert - 8803</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Jesus saith unto him (John) . . . Follow thou me." John 21:22 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Friends, He is a wonderful Lord you and I are called to follow. The Lord give you grace to follow Him. Who will start? But to find Him is one thing; to follow Him is another. You learn what it is to become <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"a living stone" (1 Peter 2:5)</strong></span> as you come in contact with Christ, and learn to follow Him when He eclipses everything else in your soul's vision. Possibly you say, If I were in different circumstances I would follow Christ. No, you would not. Your circumstances are the best if only you knew it. <br /><br />You know what reins are for; you know what they are to the horse. They keep the creature in order, and so do your circumstances. They keep you in order. If the banks are broken down, out comes the river, and spoils everything. If the reins break, what happens? There is generally a smash. Do you see?<br /><br />Do not you be troubled about your circumstances. <u>You will find that the Lord will sustain you in any circumstances, and even make them the channels of His grace</u>. Cleave to the Lord, and be devoted to the Lord. <u>Give Him the right place in your heart here, and He will sustain you</u>. <span style="color: blue;"><em><strong>"FOLLOW THOU ME" (John 21:22)</strong></em></span> would seem to be His last word to Peter. Has it no voice for you and me? </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Seekers for Light - Dr. W. T. P. Wolston, MD </span></span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back, no turning back. Though none go with me, by grace I'll follow, no turning back, no turning back. The world behind me, and Christ before me, no turning back, No turning back. O take this old world but give me Jesus, I'll not go back, I'll not go back. </em></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;">Sadhu Sundar Singh</strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8804</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 17px;"><em>HE GOES BEFORE YOU</em></span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. John 10:27</strong></span><br /><br />He goes before you, O my heart! Fear not to follow where He leads; </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">He knows the strength each task demands, He knows the grace each trial needs.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">He's just a little farther on along the dark and lonely way, </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">His bleeding footprints you may trace, He goes before you all the day.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">He goes before you, O my heart! through deepest depth, o'er highest height; </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">He knows where lurks the ambushed foe and what the battles you must fight;<br />He sees the pitfalls you will meet, the place where you may faint or fall; The weariness, the pain, the tears, He goes before, He knows it all.<br /><br />He goes before you, O my heart! He does not ask that you shall bear A single pang He has not borne, a single grief He does not share;<br />He beckons on through toil and woe, through storm or calm or tempest blast. And you shall see Him as He said, for He shall lead you home at last.<br /><br />He goes before you, O my heart! still follow on through gain or loss, And for the joy that's set before, despised the shame, endured the cross.<br />The path your faltering steps must take is one His nail-pierced feet have trod; Through Garden, Mount and riven Tomb He went before you He is God. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Flint's Best-Loved Poems </span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8805</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>If the iron be blunt, and he do not whet the edge, then must he put to more strength but wisdom is profitable to direct. Ecclesiastes 10:10 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Years ago in the Pacific Northwestern US, when logging was a very physically demanding job, a logging company advertised for strong, hard working men. An eager, muscular young man who was searching for work saw the ad. He immediately traveled to the location where the logging crew was felling trees. Arriving there and finding the foreman of the logging crew, he introduced himself and requested that he would be hired for the work. The foreman silently and carefully looked over the young man. After a few moments he said; "well son, hiring you depends on how you demonstrate your hard work". <br /><br />Handing him an axe the foreman pointed to a large tree and continued; "Let me see you fell that tree". The young man eagerly stepped forward, took the axe, and over a remarkably short period of time, quite skillfully felled the great tree. Very impressed, the foreman said; "You can start working with us on Monday!" The happy young man showed up early the next Monday morning and eagerly began to work with the crew, felling trees. He did the same on Tuesday, on Wednesday, and on Thursday. When quitting time rolled around that Thursday the foreman stopped the young logger before he left work, saying; "You can pick up your pay cheque on the way out today." <br /><br />The young man was surprised. He stammered; "But,--but, I thought we got paid on Fridays." "Yes we do," replied the foreman, "But I'm sorry, I have to let you go today. Our daily tree felling charts show that you've dropped from first place on Monday to last place today." "But" objected the young man, "I've arrived here first every day, I leave last, and I've even worked through our rest breaks!" The foreman, who liked the young man and felt sorry for him, thought for a moment. Then he asked, "<u>Have you been sharpening your axe</u>?" After a long pause came the crestfallen answer, "<u>I've been working so hard</u>, <u>I haven't taken the time"</u>. Smiling, the foreman told him, "<u>then that will be the first thing you do tomorrow morning</u>". </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><br />Doug Nicolet - T.C.S. - October 2015.</span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8806 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. Galatians 6:9 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It is so easy to lose heart in doing good. That poor soul you helped out the other day, later proved to be a crook, and not in need at all, and you vowed you will not be taken in as easily again. No, no; let us not be discouraged; let us not give in to evil. Next time you may turn away somebody really in need: and </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"whoso stoppeth his ears at the cry of the poor, he also shall cry himself, but shall not be heard." (Proverbs 21:13)</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Or that Sunday School class that is so noisy and unruly! It seems to be useless to try and go on with them. You are </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>desperate.</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> It's not worth trying any longer.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">I once did that. I once had a desperately bad Sunday School, and at the advice of an older brother, I gave it up. About three weeks later I met one of the children on the street, and she said "Oh, why did you give up the Sunday School? I wanted so much to know I was saved. I think I would have found the Lord the very next Sunday: but I had to go somewhere else, and there I found the Lord." </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Another time an old brother urged that I should give up some children's work that the Lord had opened up. I was much perplexed, and went for advice to another old brother: and to my amazement he said: "<u>Take on more work of that kind; but never give up</u>! <u>All giving up is of the devil.</u>" That was more than fifty years ago, but how often have I thanked God for those words.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Dear Mr. Herbert Taylor, Mr. Hudson Taylor's eldest son, once told me that he was at one time so discouraged that he said to his father, "I'm going to give up." His father replied, "All discouragement is of the devil!" God is <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"the God of all comfort (encouragement)." (2 Corinthians 1:3)</strong></span>. No, beloved, God's Word is clear. <strong>"Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we faint not."</strong> </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Hid Treasures - G.C. Willis </span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8807 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Them that honour Me I will honour, and they that despise Me shall be lightly esteemed." 1 Samuel 2:30 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Learn from Daniel's experience never to be flattered by the selection processes of this world. They may carry unacceptable spiritual penalties with them, and one must carefully guard one's availability for God and His service above any other demands that the world might place upon us. God has already selected us for His service and His glory, and there could be no higher ambition than this. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Daniel and his companions were chosen for special pampering under the master of eunuchs. They were allocated a daily allowance of food and wine from the King's table. This food and wine had been first offered to the gods of Babylon before reaching the King's table, and furthermore it did not conform to the special prohibitions and preparations of the Levitical law. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Daniel and his companions were put on the spot at the very start of their new life in the palace. They were being asked to compromise their faithfulness to their God and to His law. Wisely, and courageously, Daniel and his companions refused the king's meat, and chose a vegetarian diet instead, distressing their handler.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>The time to take a stand for God in any situation is right at the start</u>. If this isn't done, it is unlikely that we will ever be able to resist the world's pressures, but will find ourselves succumbing to them. So it was with Daniel and his friends. They could do nothing about their selection, or the change of their names. All of that was outside their control, but they could resist when it came to their diet. <br /><br />I can imagine some saying, "Daniel don't be a fool. Who cares about the Law now, and for that matter, who cares about God? After all, hasn't your God let you down by allowing you to be transported to Babylon? Isn't it a fact that the temple and the priesthood have gone? Why are you being so stubborn about things? When in Babylon do as the Babylonians do, and you'll find acceptance, and have a rosy future." </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Daniel - William Burnett</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8808 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong style="font-size: 16px;">Remember the battle, do no more. Job 41:8</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Some battles are more memorable than others whether won or lost. When fighting has been fierce and costly, the battle is vividly remembered by both winners and losers.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The greatest and most significant battle ever waged was at Calvary where the Lord Jesus Christ, though sore wounded and trodden underfoot, was victorious over sin and death and hell. This was the battle of all battles and now that it is over there is nothing more to do than to remember it.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The victory was final and once for all. While there is nothing to add to the work of the cross we do remember the battle, its participants and our ensuing blessings. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Choice Gleanings - Roy Hill </span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>On Calvary's brow my Saviour died, 'twas there my Lord was crucified: </strong></span><span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>T'was on the cross He bled for me, and purchased there my pardon free.</strong></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>'Mid rending rocks and darkening skies, My Saviour bows His head and dies; </strong></span><span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>The opened vail reveals the way to heaven's joy and endless day.</strong></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>O Jesus, Lord, how can it be, that Thou should give Thy life for me, </strong></span><span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>To bear the cross and agony, in that dread hour on Calvary? </strong></span></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">R</span>EFRAIN</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 12px;"><strong>:</strong> </span><span style="font-size: 14px;"> <em><strong>O Calvary! dark Calvary! Where Jesus shed His blood for me; O Calvary! blest Calvary! 'Twas there my Saviour died for me.</strong></em> </span><span style="font-size: 13px;"><strong>W. M. K. Darwood</strong></span><br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8809</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>But I will deliver thee in that day, saith the Lord: and thou shalt not be given into the hand of men of whom thou art afraid. Jeremiah 39:17 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>He has for thee:<br />- A light for every shadow,<br />- A plan for each tomorrow,<br />- A key for every problem,<br />- A balm for every sorrow. </strong></span></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">God never leaves us with only one line of comfort, there are many always at hand. There is one that I have not often heard mentioned, and yet there is help to be found in it. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong> "Thou shalt not be given into the hand of the men of whom thou art afraid."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> What is the thing that you most fear and most earnestly pray about, the thing of all other things that you dread?</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">If you love your Lord, and yet know your own weakness, is it not that something may happen to sweep you off your feet, or that your strength may be drained and you may yield and fall, and fail Him at the end? I have known many whose lives were shadowed by this fear.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Oh take comfort. The God who knew the heart of His servant Ebed-melech knows our hearts, too. He knows who the men are (what the forces of trial are) of whom we are afraid; and He assures us and reassures us, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Thou shalt not be given into the hand of the men of whom thou art afraid."</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">There are times when in the multitude of our thoughts within us (</span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"anxious thoughts</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">," JND translation), nothing in all the world can do anything for us but the consolations of our God. These times can come even in the happy days of preparation for service, and in the service too. But the comforts of God come close to us. They love us, and loving us they soothe, gladden, delight, refresh. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Amy Carmichael - Thou Givest...They Gather." </span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8810</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>I LOOK NOT BACK</em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">Forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:13,14</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">.<br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Looking unto Jesus. Hebrews 12:2</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">I look not back; God knows the fruitless efforts,</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The wasted hours, the sinning, the regrets.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">I leave them all with Him who blots the record,</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">And graciously forgives, and then forgets. <br /><br />I look not forward; God sees all the future,<br />The road that, short or long, will lead me home,<br />And He will face with me its every trial,<br />And bear for me the burdens that may come.<br /><br />I look not round me; then would fears assail me,</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">So wild the tumult of earth's restless seas,<br />So dark the world, so filled with woe and evil,<br />So vain the hope of comfort and of ease.<br /><br />I look not inward; that would make me wretched;<br />For I have naught on which to stay my trust.<br />Nothing I see save failures and shortcomings,<br />And weak endeavours, crumbling into dust. <br /><br />But I look up--into the face of Jesus,<br />For there my heart can rest, my fears are stilled;<br />And there is joy, and love, and light for darkness,<br /> And perfect peace, and every hope fulfilled.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Annie Johnson Flint </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8811</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong style="font-size: 16px;"><span style="color: blue;">There was a man...whose name was Job; and that man was perfect and upright, and one that feared God, and eschewed</span></strong> </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><span style="color: blue;">evil.</span> </span><span style="color: blue;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Job 1:1</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">When we turn to this ancient book in our Bibles, we find that God searched the world over, not for the worst man, but for the best, and He tells us Job's strangely pathetic story and shows how that good man was brought to repentance that thus <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"every mouth may be stopped" (Romans 3:19)</strong></span>, and all the world of men might be brought in guilty before Him. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">For if a man of Job's character must repent, what shall be said of me, and of you, who come so far behind him in righteousness and integrity and have sinned so deplorably and come so far short of the glory of God? Can you not see the wisdom of Jehovah in selecting such a man to show the need that all men should repent? </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Consider the case of Job. A wealthy Oriental sheik, apparently, he lived in the days before the knowledge of God had been lost. Romans 1 shows us men turned from the living and true God to vain idols, and <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"for this cause God gave them up" (Romans 1:26)</strong></span> to all sorts of unclean practices. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Job had escaped all this. He was perfect in his behaviour, upright in all his ways, one who reverenced God and detested iniquity. In chapters 1 and 2, we get a remarkable revelation of things in the unseen world. Job is the subject of a conversation between God and Satan, the accuser of the brethren <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Rev. 12:10)</strong></span> who accuses them before God day and night. <br /><br />The Lord challenges Satan,<span style="font-size: 16px;"> </span><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Hast thou considered my servant Job, that there is none like him in the earth...one that feareth God, and escheweth [shuns] evil?" (Job 1:8). </strong></span></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong> </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Note Job was all that God said he was--a man of faith, a true child of God. <u>This book give us, then, not the repentance of a sinner, but the repentance of a saint</u>. Satan denies the truthfulness of the divine estimate of Job and particularly declares that Job does not love and reverence the Lord for what He is in Himself, but for what Job received at His hand. To prove the contrary, the devil is permitted to wrest from the patriarch all that He possessed. Instead of renouncing God, Job exclaims, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord" (Job 1:21).</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Unless You Repent-H. A. Ironside </span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8812</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. Galatians 6:9 <br />"Let us not lose heart in doing the right."</strong></span><br /><br />It is a different word from the <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"good things"</strong></span> we read of in verse 6. It is often translated <strong>"beautiful."</strong> These truly are good things--beautiful things, noble things, honourable things; these are the things every one of us may do every day. We call them little things very often; perhaps giving a drink of cold water to someone who is thirsty. But that deed will get its reward; It will have a harvest.<br /><br />Most of our lives are filled up with little things--often we think useless little things that are of little profit, but, have to be done--meals have to be cooked, dishes have to be washed, children have to be cared for, our business or our daily job has to be done, and often we long for for something "bigger and better," as we suppose, to do for our Lord. Brother, sister, these little, daily duties may be the good, the noble, the honourable thing, <strong>"the right thing"</strong> for you to be doing. <br /><br />The Lord says to you two things: Do not lose heart; do not relax. We first lose heart, it seems to be so useless. Perhaps you teach a Sunday school class, but the children are not converted. Do not lose heart, do not relax; in its own time you shall reap. It is God's own promise, and it must be true. <br /><br />The word "relax" is what happens to a bow string if it becomes loose; and then the bow is useless. The bow is only useful while the string is tight. So if I relax in my work for the Lord, I become useless also; and remember in "its own time" (and that may be a long time, for seeds do not all grow quickly), in "its own time" we shall reap if we do not relax. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Meditations on Galatians - G. C. Willis </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8813</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>And Judah said, what shall we say unto my lord? what shall we speak? or how shall we clear ourselves? God hath found out the iniquity of thy servants: behold, we are my lord's servants!" Genesis 44:16 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Joseph's brothers no longer attempt to justify themselves as to the present, they do not attempt to clear themselves as to the past. They are convicted sinners "found out" by God; and they entirely submit to Joseph, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"We are my lord's servants," (V.16)</strong></span> they say. This indeed is excellent, but these are words and may be but empty profession. Words must be proved by deeds. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Judah, therefore, comes forward on behalf of the brethren, and proves the reality of their words by what they are prepared to do. He can say, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Let thy servant abide instead of the lad a bondman to my lord; and let the lad go up with his brethren."(V.33).</strong></span> Moreover; the pleading love that breathes throughout Judah's touching appeal proves how deep the repentance that has been wrought in their souls.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The heart of stone has indeed been changed into a heart of flesh. As a son he pleads for Jacob. He is our father, he is an old man, he loves Benjamin </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(v.20), "his life is bound up in the lad's life" (v.30).</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> How can </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"I see the evil that shall come on my father?" (34)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> As a true brother he pleads for Benjamin. He is </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"a lad,"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"a little one" (v.20)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Our youngest brother."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />But this appeal to Joseph shows that not only repentance has been wrought but confidence has been in measure won. A beautiful picture of that <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ" (Acts 20:21)</strong></span> which always accompanies a true work of grace. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Joseph - Hamilton Smith</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8814</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ. John 1:17 </strong></span><br /><br />In one respect, law and grace are alike, for both set before us a very exalted standard. In all other respects they are exact opposites. At mount Sinai, the law of Moses was given <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Exodus 19-20)</strong></span>. God explicitly laid down His righteous and holy demands. If men obeyed, they were blessed; if they disobeyed, they came under the law's solemn curse. Grace, on the other hand, means that all of God's righteous and holy demands have been met in Christ's death and resurrection. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">To all who believe, forgiveness of sins and the gift of the Spirit are granted, so there may be power to conform to the standard, which under grace is nothing short of Christ Himself. The very essence of law, then, <u>is demand</u>; the very essence of grace <u>is supply</u>. Under law, God stands before us saying, "Give! Render to Me your love and dutiful obedience." Under grace, He stands with hands outstretched, saying, "Take! Receive of My love and saving power." <u>Law says, "Do and live</u>." <u>grace says, "Live and do</u>." </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><u>Believers are not under law but under grace</u>. In <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Galatians 4:4-5, </strong></span>we find how this change has come about:<span style="color: blue;"> <strong>"But when the fullness 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."</strong></span> The change, then, is found in one word: <u>REDEMPTION</u>. and that involved the death of the Redeemer. <br /><br />He was made a curse for us by dying on the tree <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Galatians 3:13)</strong></span>, and therefore the believer is entitled to regard himself as <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"dead to the law" (Romans 7:4)</strong></span>. The law did not die; <u>Jesus died beneath its curse, but now God suspends His wrath and proclaims grace available to all</u>. The believer died to the law in the Person of his great Representative. Now he is controlled by another power, and that power is in a Person--the risen Son of God.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">F. B. Hole</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8815</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Unto you therefore which believe </span><u style="font-size: 16px;">He is precious</u></strong></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>. </strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>1 Peter 2:7 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Peter gives us an excellent example of the sanctifying and life changing grace of God. On one occasion Peter denied his Lord with an oath and said, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>"I do not know the man" (Matthew 26:72)</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. But now the Spirit has transformed him and he writes, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He is precious."</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">To those who believe, O how precious He is! He is <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"God's unspeakable gift" (2 Corinthians 9:15)</strong></span> and eternity will not be enough time to display all His beauties. Time spent at His feet now, basking in the sunshine of His love will convince us with Peter that, <span style="color: blue;">"He is precious."</span> Let us worship Him today! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Milton Haack</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">"Glory to God on high! peace upon earth and joy,<br />Good will to man." We who God's blessing prove<br />His name all names above, Sing now the Saviour's love,<br />Too vast to scan.<br /><br />Mercy and truth unite, Oh! 'tis a wondrous sight,<br />All sights above! Jesus the curse sustains!<br />Guilt's bitter cup He drains! nothing for us remains--<br />Nothing but love.<br /><br />Love that no tongue can teach, love that no thought can reach,<br />No love like His. God is its blessèd source,<br />Death ne'er can stop its course, Nothing can stay its force;<br />Matchless it is .<br /><br />Blest in this love, we sing; to God our praises bring;<br />All sins forgiven. Jesus, our Lord, to Thee<br />Honour and majesty, now and forever be,<br />Here and in heaven. </span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">T. Kelly</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8816</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>And they say into Him, we have here but five loaves, and two fishes. He said, bring them hither to Me. Matthew 14:17,18 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Jesus had told His disciples to feed the hungry multitude. But their resources seemed utterly inadequate to the demand--and the command. <br /><br />Has the Lord commissioned you to a task for which you have not the wherewithal? As with the man in the parable, have your friends come to you in their journey <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Luke 11:5,6) </strong></span>and you have nothing to set before them? <br /><br />Are you wondering how in the world to stretch your loaves and fishes to feed so many hungry mouths? Your family, your lifework, your Bible class--you look at your pitiful resources and sigh, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"What are they among so many?" "Bring them hither to Me." </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Little is much when He takes over. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Who is sufficient for these things?" (2 Corinthians 2:16)</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Our sufficiency is of God." (2 Corinthians 3:5)</strong></span> <strong>But all our <u>efficiency,</u> without His <u>sufficiency,</u> is only a <u>deficiency</u></strong> There were basketfuls left over. God always gives over-flowing measure, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over." (Luke 6:38)</strong></span> <br /><br />He giveth liberally, exceedingly abundantly, above all that we can ask or think. He will turn your scarcity into a surplus. Bring it to Him. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Day by Day with Vance Havner</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8817</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body what ye shall put on. Luke 12:22 </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">That sublime passage is the chart by which, if we sail, we shall not worry. For it is inconceivable that He who died for our sins, will leave us to struggle with the burdens and difficulties of life, and come to our aid only when at last, wearied in spirit and body, we lay ourselves down to die. <br /><br /> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It is a </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">complete and inclusive utterance</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> as set out in <span style="color: blue;"><strong>Luke 12:22-23</strong></span>. </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Illustrates</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(vv 24-28)</strong></span> and </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">appeals</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(vv 29-34)</strong></span>. Here the Master unveils some of His most wonderful teaching. He points to the little birds of the air which pour forth their profuse strains of unpremeditated art, and shows that God knows and cares for even the most worthless of them. He takes up the flower of the field with its simple natural adorning, and shows that its glory outshines that of the greatest of earth's potentates. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I say unto you that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these".</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(vv 12:27)</strong></span> And from the fact that God feeds the sparrow and clothes the lily, our Lord goes on to assure us that our heavenly Father is intimately acquainted with our needs, and to urge us to banish from our hearts all abrasive, corroding care. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">God is great in great things, but very great in little things. A party stood on the Matterhorn admiring the sublimity of the scene, when, a gentleman produced a pocket microscope, and having caught a fly placed it under the glass. He reminded us that the legs of the household fly in England were naked, then called attention to the legs of this little fly, which were thickly covered wth hair, thus showing that the same God Who made the lofty Swiss mountains attended to the comfort of His tiniest creatures, even providing socks and mittens for the little fly whose home these mountains were. This God is our God. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Heaven's Cure for Earth's Care - George Henderson</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8818 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>As my Father hath sent me, even so so send I you. John 20:21 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>From the glory and the gladness, from His secret place,<br />From the rapture of His presence, from the radiance of His face, Christ, the Son of God, hath sent me through the midnight lands; Mine the mighty ordination of the pierced hands. </strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">You must be in present dependence in preaching. There is no power unless we are receiving while we speak. What you need is a living connection with the heart of God, and then what flows out of the heart of God into your heart will come with power to the hearts of those you speak to.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">To hold ourselves at the Lord's disposal secures for us open doors when He has work for us to do. We are left here to display Christ; if we are not doing this we are no use to Him or to the world. The qualification for service is a deeper acquaintance with the heart of Christ. <br /><br />The more you honour God by keeping man in the background the more blessing you will have in the work. The Holy Spirit is always ready to work <strong><em>when we exalt Christ</em></strong>, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He shall glorify me." (John 16:14)</strong></span> The great danger is the presentation of any truth apart from Christ. What will become of those cut flowers to-morrow? They will fade. So truth that is separated from Christ will fade away. <br /><br /><em><strong>Nothing</strong></em> can justify a lack of tenderness in the presentation of the truth. We have to labour in faith, and in proportion to our confidence in God will be our expectation of blessing. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Footprints for Pilgrims - Edward Dennet</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8819 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Him: Rooted and built up in Him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Colossians 2:6,7 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">How it would quicken the sense of dependence, and make me see that praying without ceasing is indeed the one need of my life,--and unceasing waiting, moment by moment, on the God Who hath united me to Christ, to perfect His own Divine work, to work in me both <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"to will and to do of His good pleasure" (Philippians 2:13)</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">And what a motive this would be for the highest activity in the maintenance of a fruitful branch-life! Motives are mighty powers; it is of infinite importance to have them high and clear. Here surely is the highest: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"you are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works:"</strong></span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Ephesians 2:10)</strong></span> grafted by Him into Christ, unto the bringing forth of much fruit. Whatever God creates is exquisitely suited to its end. He created the sun to give light: how perfectly it does its work! He created the eye to see: how beautifully it fulfils its object! He created the new man unto good works: how admirably it is fitted for its purpose. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Of God I am in Christ: created anew, made a branch of the Vine, fitted for fruit bearing. Would God that believers would cease looking most at their old nature, and complaining of their weakness, as if God called them to what they were unfitted for! <br /><br />Would that they would believingly and joyfully accept the wondrous revelation of how God, in uniting them to Christ, has made Himself chargeable for their spiritual growth and fruitfulness! How all sickly hesitancy and sloth would disappear, and under the influence of this mighty motive--the faith in the faithfulness of Him of whom they are in Christ--their new nature would rise to accept and fulfil their glorious destiny! </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Abide in Christ - Andrew Murray</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8820</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ. Philippians 1:6. </strong></span><br /><br />Today I have found something fresh in this--<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He Which hath begun a good work . . . will perform it until the Day of Jesus Christ."</strong></span> will go on to perform it in preparation for the Day of Christ. <br /><br />So often some fervent loving prayer for another has not seen its hopes fulfilled. But <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He Which hath begun . . ."</strong></span>; may it not be that there has been a beginning, deep in that soul, unknown perhaps to itself?<br /><br />I have often found later on that it has been so. Even though we never know, it does not matter. Of one thing we are sure: prayer is heard; prayer is answered; forces are set in motion by prayer in the Name of our Lord Jesus which will not cease, but will continue until that which has been begun is perfected.<br /><br />Love will perfect that which it begins. It will not forsake the work of its own hands. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Psalm 138:8)</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Edges of His Ways - Amy Carmichael </span></span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Unanswered yet? The prayer your lips have pleaded in agony of heart these many years?</span><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">Does faith begin to fail, is hope departing, and think you all in vain those falling tears?</span><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">Say not the Father hath not heard your prayer;</span><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">You shall have your desire, sometime, somewhere.</span></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em>Unanswered yet? though when you first presented this one petition at the Father's throne,<br />It seemed you could not wait the time of asking so urgent was your heart to make it known <br />Though years have passed since then, do not despair;<br />The Lord will answer you, sometime, somewhere.</em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">F. G. Burrough </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8821</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>JESUS CHRIST, PERFECT GOD AND PERFECT MAN </em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">". . . When Thou shalt make His soul an offering for sin, . . . He shall see of the travail of His soul, and shall be satisfied . . ." (Isaiah 53:10,11)</span> </strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">It is true that He emptied Himself. He laid aside the outward appearance of Deity. His Godhead was veiled. But it was there! Again and again His Godhead shows itself. <u>As man</u>, <u>He</u> slept in the boat. <u>As God</u>, <u>He</u> calmed the waves. <u>As man</u>, <u>He</u> wept. <u>As God</u>, <u>He</u> cried, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Lazarus, come forth!" (John 11:43)</strong></span> <u>As man</u>, <u>He was laid in the tomb</u>--<u>as God</u>, <u>He</u> arose! </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">A. E. Hughes.</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Calvary has no date. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"The Lamb slain from the foundation of the world." (Revelation 13:8)</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Oh, the love that drew salvations's plan,<br />Oh, the grace that brought it down to man,<br />Oh, the mighty gulf that God did span At Calvary! <br /><br />Mercy there was great, and grace was free,<br />Pardon there was multiplied to me,<br />There my burdened soul found liberty, At Calvary! </span><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">(W. R. Newell)</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">"Calvary stills all questions."<br /><br />The cross spells two stories: one in black--ugly black--the story of sin. Sin carpentered the Cross, and wove the thorns, and drove the nails--<em><strong>our</strong></em> sin! And a story too, in red--bright-flowing red--the story of LOVE, HIS LOVE that yielded to the cross and nails and shame for us! And only the passion of His love burning within will make us hate sin, as only HIS BLOOD can wash it out.<br /><br />The hill of the Cross is the highest hill on earth in its significance. There hate's worst and love's best met. "AND LOVE WON." </span><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Dr. S. D. Gordon</span></strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8822</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>"BUT HE ROSE AGAIN"</em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">He is not here: for He is risen, as He said. . . . </span></strong></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;">Matthew 28:6</span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">I was going down a street in Chicago, when in a window I saw a very moving picture of the crucifixion. As I gazed spellbound at the vividly pictured story, I suddenly became conscious that at my side stood a street urchin. He, too, was gazing, and his tense expression made me know that "The Crucifixion" had really gripped his little soul. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Touching him on the shoulder, I said, "Sonny, what does it mean?" "Doncha know?" he asked, his face full of marvel at my ignorance. "That there man is Jesus, and them others is Roman soldiers, and the woman that's cryin' is His mother, and," he added, "they killed Him."</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">I was loathe to leave that window, but I could not tarry always at the world's tragedy, so I turned and walked quietly down the street. In a moment I heard pattering footsteps at my heels, and there stood my little street urchin. <em>"<strong>Say, Mister," he breathlessly announced, I fergot to tell yer, He rose again!</strong>"</em> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">The sign of our faith is an empty Cross, and empty tomb--He is not here: for He is risen!</span></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>REDEMPTION</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">A mother and her Child; a wondrous Boy, a dead man raised to life; A few poor fishermen, an Upper Room, a feast, a garden and a judgment hall.<br /><br />A crown of thorns, a scourge, a bitter cross; a great stone rolled away and tears;<br />A springtime morning and an empty tomb; a feast a Blessing and a Risen Christ.</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Mary Winter Ware</span></span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>Oh, let me live as If He died but yestertide;<br />And I myself had seen and touched His pierced side.</em></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8823 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>REDEEMED </strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>(Being set free - Bought Back)</strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Your redemption draweth nigh. . . . Luke 21:28 </strong></span><br /><br />R</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">EDEMPTION </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">F</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">ROM</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> S</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">IN </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">has been accomplished already. All who avail themselves of what was wrought on Calvary have been bought in the market, bought out of the market, never again to be on sale in the market. <br /><br />The redemption of our bodies awaits the resurrection when all who have been redeemed through faith in Christ shall be transformed and take their new bodies fashioned like His glorious body. Then follows the redemption of all creation. <br /><br />When the saints rule over the earth set free from the blight of decay and death, man and beast will be at peace. God has set His face to redeem man and nature from the havoc wrought by the devil. <span style="color: blue;"><strong> "Lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh!"</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">All The Days - Vance Havner</span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 14px;">Redeemed-how I love to proclaim it! Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb; Redeemed thro' His infinite mercy, His child, and forever, I am.<br /><br />Redeemed and so happy in Jesus, No language my rapture can tell; I know that the light of His presence With me doth continually dwell. <br /><br />I think of my bless-ed Redeemer, I think of Him all the day long; I sing, for I cannot be silent; His love is the theme of my song.<br /><br />I know I shall see in His beauty The King in whose word I delight; Who lovingly guardeth my footsteps, and giveth me songs in the night.</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Chorus: Redeemed, . . Redeemed, . . Redeemed by the blood of the Lamb; Redeemed, . . redeemed, . . His child, and forever I am.</span></strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Fanny J. Crosby</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8824</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee. . . 2 Timothy 1:6</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Having expressed his love for and confidence in Timothy, Paul passes on to exhortation, encouragement and instruction. First, he exhorts him to stir up </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"the gift of God"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> which had been imparted to him for the service of the Lord. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In the presence of difficulties, dangers and general unfaithfulness, when there would appear to be little result from the ministry, there is the danger of thinking it is almost useless to exercise gift. Therefore we need the warning against letting the gift fall into disuse. We are to stir it up; and, in a day of ruin, to be all the more insistent in its use. A little later the Apostle can say, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Preach the word; be instant (urgent) in season, out of season" (2 Timothy 4:2)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Having spoken of gifts that are special to the individual, the Apostle passes on to remind Timothy of the gift that is common to all believers. To some God gives a special gift for the ministry of the word, to all His people He gives the spirit of power, and of love, and of wise discretion. It is the state and spirit of the believer that is the result of the work of the Holy Spirit and therefore partakes of the character of the Spirit, as the Lord said, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"That which is born of the Spirit is spirit."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(John 3:6)</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">By nature Timothy may have been timid, and retiring in disposition, but the Holy Spirit does not produce the spirit of cowardice, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. In the natural man we may find power without love, or love degenerating into mere sentiment. With the Christian, under the control of the Spirit, power is combined with love, and love expressed with a wise discretion. Thus, however difficult the day, the believer is well equipped with power to do the will of God, to express the love of God, and to exercise a sober judgment in the midst of the ruin. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Hamilton Smith - Expository Outline of Second Timothy</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8825</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you. 1 Peter 5:7 </strong></span><br /><br />Do you know the One who says this? In the same epistle there is a verse, which precedes the one we are considering, and must precede it, too, in our own </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">experience. <span style="color: blue;"><em><strong>"For Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God." (1 Peter 3:18)</strong></em></span> This deals with the <strong><em>sin</em></strong> question, which must be dealt with before the <em><strong>care</strong></em> question. <br /><br />But the latter is not overlooked, for what we are invited to do when we are brought to God is to cast all our care upon Him. If God has laid your <em><strong>sins</strong></em> upon Christ, <em><strong>you</strong></em> may lay all your care upon God. And the reason is given why we may: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For He careth for you."</strong></span> Christ once suffered for your sins and bore them, and He now wants you to let Him bear your care.<br /><br />Here, then, is the answer to the unbelief that thinks God allows the world to drift on, and has left it to take care of itself. This is as untrue as every other lie of which Satan is the source. Those words, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He careth;"</strong></span> that invitation to <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"cast all our care upon Him,"</strong></span> come to us with the very stamp of truth. It would be fiendish to mock us with such words. Ah! mockery cannot coin such words as those. They tell their own tale, that behind them there is a heart we may well trust. <br /><br />They are words, too, that appeal to all, for who does not know care? Recently we had the opportunity of watching the faces of people in a crowded London thoroughfare. Hundreds passed us, among them different classes, and creeds, and nationalities; but in one respect they were all alike--there was more or less of care depicted in every countenance. <br /><br />Their cares were not alike, yet there was one remedy for all. How many knew that they might have the peace of God, which passeth all understanding? How many could look up and say, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He careth for me?"</strong></span> </span><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 13px;"><em><strong>Angels in White - Russell Elliott.</strong></em></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8826</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">He that heareth my word, and believeth on Him that sent Me, hath everlasting life. John 5:24.</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">Not surprisingly, heaven's words come only from heaven. You could get the fragrance of roses from a dungeon, if first the lovely flowers were carried there. This fragrant knowledge of a God of love could never have been told except by the lips of the One who came from His Father in heaven. He alone could speak words of eternal life. In almost every chapter of John's inspiring Gospel, these words of eternal life are found.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">A learned rabbi hears them at night from an object lesson of Moses lifting up the serpent in the wilderness<span style="font-size: 16px;"> </span><span style="color: blue;"><strong>(John 3:14)</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">An ignorant and licentious, though religious Samaritan woman hears them from<span style="font-size: 16px;"> </span><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"a prophet"</strong></span><span style="font-size: 16px;"> </span>who sits on Sychar's wel</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">l </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>(4:14)</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">A hopeless paralytic, waiting thirty eight-years at Bethesda's pool, hears them also, and so did those that day who accused the Mighty Healer of making a man whole on the Sabbath day. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Verily, verily, I say unto you: He that heareth My word, and believeth on Him that sent Me, hath everlasting life; and shall not come into condemnation, but is passed from death unto life (5:24)</strong></span>. There were words of eternal life when He fed the hungry multitudes with five loaves and two small fishes, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I am the Bread of Life: He that cometh to Me shall shall never hunger and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst" (6:35)</strong></span>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Hear His words about the living water when the unsatisfied crowd at Jerusalem kept the feast of Tabernacles: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><strong>"If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink. He that believeth on Me, as the Scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water" (7:37)</strong>.</span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Read words about eternal life when He opened the eyes of the blind in chapter 9, words about Himself as the resurrection and the life, when He wept with others at the grave of Lazarus. These words of eternal life took deep root in the hearts of His disciples, and when the cross blasted their superficial expectations, His resurrection raised them again to a living hope, for </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong style="font-size: 15px;">"they remembered His words" (Luke 24:8)</strong><span style="font-size: 16px;"> </span></span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Plant of Renown - Leonard Sheldrake</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8227 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report" Philippians 4:8</strong></span><br /><br />Whatsoever things are lovely, or lovable. Oh, that we might have our minds occupied with such things! Oh, that we might meditate on the gracious, winsome things in the saints, and in others about us! Oh, that we might put the most favourable construction on every report we hear.<br /><br />Love thinketh no evil. Love believeth all things: not the evil things, but the good ones: and where it cannot actually believe all the good it would like, it at least <strong><em>hopeth</em></strong> all things: it hopes the good report is true, and the evil one false.<br /><br />Notice there is not the slightest suggestion we should meditate on the evil report: but only on the good. A scripture that might go well with this part of our verse is <span style="color: blue;"><strong>1 Peter 4:8: Above all things have fervent love among yourselves: for love shall cover the multitude of sins."</strong></span> With the sins and evil reports covered by love, we will be free to meditate on whatsoever things are of good report.<br /><br />This does not, of course, mean that we are to make light of evil, or go on with it. But evil that is dealt with in true love, will win the erring one again, instead of driving him further away. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Meditations on Philippians - G Christopher Willis</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Down in the human heart, crushed by the tempter.<br />Feelings lie buried that grace can restore;<br />Touched by a loving heart, wakened by kindness, <br />Chords that are broken will vibrate once more.</span><br /><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Fanny Crosby</span></span></strong></em></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8228</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>He is not here, but is risen...And they remembered His words. Luke 24:6,8 </strong></span><br /><br /> Joey was a severely disabled student with a terminal disease who attended a Christian school. Spring had come and Easter was near. The teacher spent time teaching her class about the resurrection of Jesus from among the dead. Then she gave each of her students a large plastic egg.<br /> "Now," she said to them, "I want you to take this home and bring it back tomorrow with something inside that shows new life. Do you understand?" <br /> "Yes, Miss Nelson!" The children responded enthusiastically--all except for Joey. He just listened intently, his eyes never leaving her face. Miss Nelson wondered if he had understood what she had said about the Lord Jesus' death and resurrection? Perhaps she should call his parents that evening and explain the assignment to them. But in the busyness of her day she forgot about phoning Joey's parents.<br /> The next morning, 19 excited children came to school, laughing and talking as they placed their eggs in the large wicker basket on Miss Nelson's desk. Soon it was time to open the eggs and in the first egg, she found a flower. Oh yes, a flower is certainly a sign of new life," she said. "When plants peek through the ground we know that spring is here."<br /> The next egg contained a realistic plastic butterfly. "We all know that a caterpillar changes and grows into a beautiful butterfly. Yes, that is new life, too."<br /> Next was a rock with green moss on it. She explained that moss, too, showed life.<br /> <u>The fourth egg--Joey's egg--was empty</u>. Because she did not want to embarrass him, she quietly set the egg aside and reached for another. Joey spoke up; "<u>Miss Nelson, aren't you going talk about my egg</u>?" She stammered, "<u>Joey...your egg is empty</u>". But tears filled her eyes as she listened to Joey's explanation. He said softly, "<u>Yes, but Jesus' tomb was empty, too</u>. Jesus was killed and put in there. Then His Father raised Him up to life!"<br /> Three months later, Joey died. On the top of his casket were 19 empty plastic eggs.<br /><span style="color: blue;"> "Jesus said unto her, I am the resurrection, and the life: he that believeth in Me, though he were dead, yet shall he live" (John 11:25)</span>. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">T.C.S. (Doug Nicolet - 2008</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8829 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 28</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>He is despised and rejected of men; a Man of Sorrows, and acquainted with grief. Isaiah 53:3 </strong></span><br /><br />O what cruelties men inflicted upon God's Son. They bound Him with cords; they crowned Him with thorns; they lashed Him with a scourge: they beat Him with a rod; they mocked Him with a scarlet robe; they burdened Him with a cross; they pierced Him with nails; and finally, when He had expired, they wounded Him with a spear. It was all for you and me.<br /><br /><em><strong>"Man of sorrows," what a name for the Son of God who came Ruined sinners to reclaim Hallelujah! what a Saviour!<br /><br />Bearing shame and scoffing rude, in my place condemned He stood; Sealed my pardon with His blood; Hallelujah! what a Saviour!<br /><br />Guilty, vile and helpless we; spotless Lamb of God was He; "Full atonement!" can it be? Hallelujah! what a Saviour!<br /><br />Lifted up was He to die, "It is finished," was His cry;<br />Now in heaven exalted high; Hallelujah! what a Saviour!<br /><br />When He comes, our glorious King, all His ransomed home to bring, Then anew this song we'll sing: Hallelujah! what a Saviour! </strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif">P. P. Bliss</span></strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. John 1:29</strong></span></span></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8830</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>When they began to sing and praise, the Lord set ambushments . . .and they were smitten. </strong></span></span></span></span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>2 Chronicles 20:22 </strong></span><br /><br />Oh, that we could reason less about our troubles, and sing and praise more! There are thousands of things that we wear as shackles which we might use as instruments with music in them, if we only knew how. <br /><br />Those men that ponder, and meditate, and weigh the affairs of life, and study the mysterious developments of God's providence, and wonder why they should be burdened and thwarted and hampered--how different and how much more joyful would be their lives, if, instead of forever indulging in self-revolving and inward thinking, they would take their experiences, day by day, and lift them up, and praise God for them.<br /><br />We can sing our cares away easier than we can reason them away. Sing in the morning. The birds are the earliest to sing, and birds are more without care than anything else that I know of. <br /><br />Sing at evening. Singing is the last thing that robins do. When they have done their daily work; when they have flown their last flight, and picked up their last morsel of food, then on a topmost twig, they sing one song of praise. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">Oh, that we might sing morning, and evening, and let song touch song all the way through. Selected<br /><br /><em><strong>Don't let the song go out of your life though it chance sometimes to flow In a minor strain; it will blend again with the major tone you know.<br /><br />What though shadows rise to obscure life's skies, and hide for a time the sun, The sooner they'll lift and reveal the rift, if you let the melody run. <br /><br />Don't let the song go out of your life; though the voice may have lost its trill, </strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Though the the tremulous note may die in your throat, let it sing in your spirit still.<br /><br />Don't let he song go out of your life; let it ring in the soul while here; And when you go hence, "twill follow you thence, if redeemed, in that heavenly sphere.</span></strong></em><br /><br /></span></span></span></div><div style="font-size: medium;"><span style="font-size: medium;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8831 </span></span></span></div></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 30</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>All things were made by Him; and without Him was not anything made that was made. (John 1:3) For by Him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers; all things were created by Him" (Colossians 1:16).</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When this perfect creation was ruined by the entrance of sin, when man fell and all creation on account of that fall was brought into the bondage of corruption, the work of redemption became a necessity. No creature of God was fitted or fit to do this. Only the Son of God, the Creator Himself, could undertake this mighty work and accomplish it to the Praise and Glory of God. To do this great work, He had to appear on this earth in the form of man.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">This work of the Son of God has a threefold aspect. It is a <u>past work</u>, a <u>present work</u> and beyond the present there is His <u>future work</u>. His work and service will terminate when He delivers up the kingdom, so that God will be all in all </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(1 Corinthians 15: 24-28).</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> It has a special meaning for the church. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for it." (Ephesians 5:25-27)</strong></span> This is His past work. <br /><br />Since then He is sanctifying the the church by the washing of water by the Word, and in the future He will present it to Himself, a glorious church. In virtue of this threefold work of our Lord, <u>believers are saved</u>, <u>are being saved</u>, and <u>will be saved</u>. </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">A. C. Gabelein - The Work of Christ.</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8832</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall. 2 Peter 1:10 </strong></span><br /><br /><strong>Diligence</strong>: constant effort to accomplish what is undertaken. The characteristics of diligence are: (1) a destination or objective, (2) the power to get there, and (3) the purpose of heart to continue in spite of whatever looms up to discourage. <br /><br />If you look up <strong>"diligence"</strong> in either an English or French dictionary, one of the meanings is <strong>"a stage-coach"</strong>. <strong>Diligence</strong> was the term applied in Quebec in the days before trains, to a <strong>"coach"</strong> that ran between towns on a schedule. This was an appropriate use of the word given the characteristics listed earlier.<br /><br />(1) A destination or objective: Certainly the reason for taking the coach down the bumpy roads of early Quebec was to get to a desired destination town. Each believer has the objective of living out the new life that is in us through the work of Christ; that is, making our <span style="color: blue;"><strong style="font-size: 16px;"><em>calling and election sure</em></strong> </span> <strong><em><span style="color: blue;">(2 Peter 1:10)</span></em></strong>. Not that we are responsible for the fact that it is <strong style="font-size: 16px;"><em>"sure"</em></strong>, but making that fact assured in our own hearts and then demonstrating it to others. <br /><br />(2) The power to get there: The passenger on a <strong style="font-size: 16px;"><em>"diligence"</em></strong> had no direct power to get it over the road to their destination. That power resided in sturdy horses, commanding coachman and reliable coach. So for the believer; the power to be diligent in spiritual things does not come from us, it comes from the Lord by His Spirit working within us. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of His good pleasure." (Philippians 2:13)</strong></span><br /><br />(3) The purpose of heart to continue: There was no point in getting off the coach midway in the wilderness. The journey once begun needed to be completed, even if the road was boggy and slow, or the cold penetrated the unheated coach, or highwaymen threatened. For the believer, we need to <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Continue thou in the things which thou has learned." (2 Timothy 3:14)</strong></span> Whatever comes our way, it is important to continue thus all the way to our ultimate destination, heaven. <br /><br />Our coachman is the Lord. He knows the way; He knows the dangers, and HE WILL bring us safely to the end of our journey. Meanwhile, trust Him, to keep us safely on course, while we diligently seek to remain assured of our relationship with Him, and diligently demonstrate this to others by our love, our patience and our words.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lorne Perry</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8833 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose. Romans 8:28</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">As we meditate on this first chapter of Jonah, and follow the disobedient servant of Jehovah along his pathway from his home in Gath-Hepher, down, down, down, till </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">he reaches the belly of the fish, and thus saves the heathen sailors, we may realize that all this pathway is a picture of the perfect, obedient Servant of Jehovah, our Lord Jesus Christ.<br /><br />He went down, down, down--down from His home in the glory, down to the manger, and from thence down to the cross, and down into the grave, and so saves us poor sinners. How marvellously is that pathway traced for us in </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Philippians.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross." Philippians 2:5-8</strong></span><br /><br />Little wonder that the Spirit of God should then burst forth: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Wherefore God also hath exalted Him, and given Him a name which is above every name: that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father."</strong></span> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lessons From Jonah - G. C. Willis</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8834</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>NOW OR NEVER</strong></em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>They that were ready went in . . . and the door was shut. Matthew 25:10<br /><br />When once the master of the house is risen up, and hath shut the door . . . he shall answer and say unto you, I know you not. (Luke 13:25) </strong></span><br /><br />There are plenty of things besides immediate death which may just as effectually prevent your ever coming to Christ at all, if you do not come now. This might be your last free hour for coming. <br /><br />Tomorrow the call may be less urgent, and the other things entering in may deaden it, and the grieved Spirit may withdraw and cease to give you even your present inclination to listen to it, and so you may drift on and on, farther and farther from the haven of safety (into which you may enter <em>NOW </em>if you will), till it is out of sight on the horizon. <br /><br />And then it may be too late to turn the helm, and the current may be too strong; and when the storm of mortal illness at last comes, you may find that you are too weak mentally or physically to rouse yourself even to hear, much less to come. What can one do when fever or exhaustion are triumphing over mind and body? Do not risk it. Come now! and <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool." (Isaiah 1:18)</strong></span> . </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">What will you do without Him, in the long and dreary day<br />Of trouble and perplexity, when you do not know the way,<br />And no one else can help you, and no one guides you right,<br />And hope comes not with morning, and rest comes not with night. </span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Opened Treasures - Frances Ridley Havergal</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8835</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">May 4</span></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18956767.post-50116934428817050892022-03-01T08:15:00.043-05:002022-03-30T08:28:57.293-04:00Gems from March 2022<p><strong style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;">And He was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake Him, and say unto Him, Master, carest Thou not that we perish? Mark 4:38</span></strong></p><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><br /><span style="font-size: 16px;">The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; He will save, He will rejoice over thee with joy; He will rest in His love, He will joy over thee with singing. </span></strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Zephaniah 3:17</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We know that the disciples need not have been afraid, they need not have disturbed our Lord's rest; but something I had never thought of before came to me, as I pictured that tossing boat and those frightened men and the resting Lord. Do we never do just what they did? He is resting in His love, in the silence of love. Do not we, His lovers, sometimes break into the sweetness of that silence with a fear, a cry that is almost</span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong> "carest Thou not?" </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">No one paragraph, even in our Bible, shows life as whole. There are other aspects, I know, but this, which is perhaps the very innermost-the heart of the heart of love-is something we are meant to look at often, and far more, to </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>live</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">There is silence which can be only met by silence. Silence is not a gap to be filled. It is the greatest of all preparations, and the climax of all adoration. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Truly my soul waiteth upon God: from Him cometh my salvation. My soul, wait thou only upon God; for my expectation is from Him." Psalm 62:1,5)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> .</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Let the storm beat as it will outside; within, let there be peace, so that undisturbed He may rest in His love. ("<u>He will renew thee with His love</u>". Are they not dear words? "<u>He will rest in His love</u>." "<u>He will renew thee with His love</u>." </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Edges of His Ways - Amy Carmichael</span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8771</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">I will arise and go to my father...and he arose, and came to his father... But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him...and fell on his neck and kissed him. Father I have sinned...But the father said...let us eat and be merry: for this my son...was lost and is found. Luke 15:18-24 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Years ago, while visiting a Canadian friend's home in Florida, we heard the sound of a big eighteen-wheeler coming by the window. His wife's brother in law was bringing a load of hay from Canada for horses in Florida. He would soon be returning to the province of Ontario with crates of oranges for an Ottawa grocery chain.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Seeing my interest in his big red truck, the driver said "Jump in." I told him about this being a first for me, to climb high in such a monster, never having been that close to the roaring sound of such a powerful vehicle.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Then my trucker friend told me, "It's good to see you this close. You know driving this rig mile after mile, it gets quite tiring and lonely, especially after the sun goes down." He was quiet for a moment. Then he said, "I hear you in the dark of night as I travel down the highways often listening to the <strong><em>Hour of Decision</em>.</strong> I can hardly see the road after you sing songs like 'Lord, I'm Coming Home.' " His voice broke as we continued to talk about it. Then we prayed together, and I knew that a new name had been written down in Glory. It happened to my new friend from Canada, behind the steering wheel of his truck, parked in the back yard of his sister's Florida home.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Everyone longs for the comfort and security of a loving home. The trucker from Canada longed for a special home--one that would be his forever. It's a home all of us long for, even though some are not yet aware of of it. </span><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">George Beverly Shea</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong> I've wandered far away from God, now I'm coming home;<br />The paths of sin too long I've trod, Lord, I'm coming home.<br /> I've wasted many precious years, now I'm coming home ;<br /> I now repent wth bitter tears, Lord, I'm coming home.<br /> I'm tired of sin and straying, Lord, now I'm coming home;<br />I'll trust Thy love, believe Thy word, Lord I'm coming home.<br /> My soul is sick, my heart is sore, now I'm coming home;<br />My strength renew, my hope restore, Lord, I'm coming home.</strong></em><strong> <span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif">W. J. Patrick</span> </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8772</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>This book...shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night. Joshua 1:8 </strong></span><br /><br />Go to God by prayer for a key to unlock the mysteries of His word. It is not the plodding but the praying soul, that will get this treasure of scripture knowledge. God often brings a truth to the Christian's hand as a return of prayer, which He had long hunted for in vain with much labour and study: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"There is a God in heaven that revealeth secrets" (Daniel 2:28)</strong></span>; and where does He reveal the secrets of His word but at the throne of grace?</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"From the first day," </strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>saith the angel, </strong></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words". (Daniel 10:12)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> And what was this heavenly messenger's errand to Daniel but to open more fully the Scripture to him? as appears by verse <span style="color: blue;"><strong>14</strong></span> compared with verse <span style="color: blue;"><strong>21</strong></span>. This holy man had got some knowledge by his study in the word, and this sets him to praying, and prayer fetched an angel from heaven to give him more light. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">- "<span style="color: blue;"><strong>Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee." Psalm 119:11</strong></span>. It was not the Bible in his hand to read it, not the word of his tongue to speak of it; but the hiding it in his heart, that he found effectual against sin. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">-<span style="color: blue;"><strong> "Quench not the Spirit, despise not prophesyings" (1 Thessalonians 5:19,20) </strong></span>They are coupled together; he that despises one loses both. If the scholar is too proud to learn of the usher (guide), he is unworthy to be taught by the master.<br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>- "They shall turn away their ears from the truth, and shall be turned unto fables" (2 Timothy 4:3,4)</strong></span>. Satan commonly stops the ear from hearing sound doctrine, before he opens it to embrace corrupt doctrine. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">William Gurnall </span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8773 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><em>LONELINESS</em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">I watch, and am as a sparrow alone upon the housetop. Psalm 102:7</span></span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong> </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Loneliness is a very unpleasant feeling. Many who have lost loved ones know the emotion, the feeling, even many years after their loss. Such feelings were well understood by the Lord as He too passed through a deep sense of loneliness. In the latter part of Matthew the Lord foretells His coming rejection and crucifixion. He speaks of Judas's betrayal; He tells His disciples they will all forsake Him, and mentions Peter's threefold denial. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In the garden the Lord separates from His disciples to pray. Even though three are invited to follow closer, they are unable to watch with Him as sleep overcomes them, and they are not at the Lord's side either as He prays to His Father. <u>The Lord is alone</u>. Soon afterward, the multitude comes to take Him, and His disciples flee. During all His appearances before the authorities, <u>He has no one at His side</u>. He was rejected by the people, whom He had served so wonderfully--<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Crucify Him, crucify Him"</strong></span> was their clamour: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"We will not have this Man to reign over us."</strong></span> Those who loved Him, who stood by the cross, stood afar off.<br /><br />What loneliness He felt. The Psalms very vividly describe the thoughts of His heart: </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I looked for some to take pity, but there was none; and for comforters, but I found none." (Psalm 69:20) "Lover and friend hast thou put far from Me." (Psalm 88:18) "I am like a pelican of the wilderness...and am as a sparrow alone on the housetop." (Psalm 102:6,7)</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />Then the climax, the last three hours on the cross, when darkness enshrouded Him and the heart-rending cry echoed forth, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?" (Matthew 27:46)</strong></span> Yes, there are times when we are lonely and it hurts, yet there is no loneliness or sorrow comparable to His. But in all our sorrow we have One to whom we can go, One who gives comfort and support in times of deepest need, because He understands. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Albert Blok</span></span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8774</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 4</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>To Timothy, my dearly beloved son: grace, mercy, and peace, from God the Father and Christ Jesus our Lord. 2 Timothy1:2</strong></span> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The Apostle can address Timothy as his <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"beloved son</strong></span> <strong>(child)</strong>." What a comfort that in a day of ruin there are those to whom we can unreservedly express our affection, and to whom in all confidence we can unburden our hearts. Two leading characteristics in Timothy drew forth the love and confidence of Paul. <br /><br /><u>First</u>, he was mindful of his tears; <u>secondly</u>, he remembered his unfeigned faith. The tears of Timothy proved that he was a man of spiritual depth and affection who felt the low and broken condition of the Christian profession: his unfeigned faith proved that he was able to rise above all the evil in obedience to, and confidence in, God.<br /><br />Timothy may indeed have been of a timid nature and in danger of being overwhelmed by the evil that was coming into the church; as he was marked by tears and faith, the Apostle was was encouraged to instruct and exhort him knowing that he had qualities which would enable him to answer to his appeal. Nor is it otherwise today. <br /><br />The instructions of this touching Epistle will find little response unless there are the tears that tell of a tender heart that can mourn over the sorrows of God's people, and the faith that can take God's path of separation in the midst of the ruin.<br /><br />Paul delighted to remember in his prayers this man of tears and faith. What a cheer to any saint, broken hearted by the condition of God's people, to know that there are devoted and faithful saints by whom he is remembered in prayer. Faithfulness in a day of desertion binds hearts together in the bonds of divine love. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> 2 Timothy - Expository Outline - Hamilton Smith</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8775 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 5</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>WHEREFORE DIDST THOU DOUBT?</em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">Neither be ye of doubtful mind. Luke 12:29 </span></strong><span style="color: blue;"></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">We are to believe without doubting. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not..." Matthew 21:2</strong>1</span> <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting." (1 Timothy 2:8) </strong></span> Obey without doubting. <span style="color: blue;"><strong> (Acts 11:12)</strong></span>.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">So much of our faith, our praying, our obedience, comes to naught because it is clogged with doubt, diluted with unbelief. Doubt puts the brakes on, takes all the assurance out of our hearts, makes us wavering disciples, driven by the wind and tossed. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(James 1:6)</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When our Lord appeared after His resurrection, some believed but some doubted and one feels that chill in many a gathering of Christians. In questionable matters, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"And he that doubteth is (condemned) if he eat" (Romans 14:23)</strong></span> and the underground principle is <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"whatsoever is not of faith is sin"</strong></span>. We believe or we doubt and if both are mixed let us earnestly pray, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Lord, I believe; help Thou mine unbelief." (Mark 9:24) </strong></span>To the extent we are believing, we are not doubting and, if we are doubting, to that extent we are not believing. Beware of a doubtful mind. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> All the Days - Vance Havner</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Ere you left your room this morning. Did you think to pray? In the name of Christ, our Saviour, did you ask for loving favour, as a shield today?<br /><br />When you met with great temptation, did you think to pray? By His dying love and merit did you trust the Holy Spirit as your guide and stay?<br /><br />When your heart was filled with anger, did you think to pray? Did you plead for grace, my brother, that you might forgive another who has crossed your way?<br /><br />Oh, how praying rests the weary! Prayer will change the night to day; so when life seems dark and dreary, don't forget to pray.</span> </strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Mary Kidder - 1820 to 1905)</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8776 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 6</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Be ye reconciled to God. 2 Corinthians 5:20 </strong></span><br /><br /><strong>Reconciliation</strong> is one of the great spiritual blessings imparted to us by God, on the basis of our acceptance of the Lord Jesus as our personal Saviour. <strong>It speaks of bringing two opposing forces together in harmony</strong> - on the one hand, the unchanging will of God, and on the other, our own wills which are naturally inclined to oppose His will. This was only possible through Christ.<br /><br /><strong>1. An Act of God</strong> - If reconciliation depended upon us to any degree, it could never happen. The wonder is that it was all up to God who came out to us in love, giving His only Son to be the perfect sacrifice for sins. And it was by His Spirit that we actually took notice, listened and accepted the message. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Isaiah 1:18)</strong></span>. Salvation is entirely His work.<br /><br /><strong>2. Knowing, Compared to Believing </strong>- It is one thing to know that Jesus came to earth, died and rose again, and quite another to actually believe that it was for me, and effective in me, for eternity. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(John 17:3). </strong></span> fruit of our reconciliation.<br /><br /><strong>3. Believing Leads to Telling -</strong> There are some believers who keep their experience to themselves, and thereby deprive other needy souls of hearing the good news of salvation. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Mark 16:15).</strong></span><br /><br /><strong>4. Ultimate Reconciliation -</strong> to be face to face with our blessed Lord and Saviour is anticipated day by day. Then we will be carried to the Father's home to dwell there forever. Since reconciled means <strong>"brought together"</strong>, our promised future will be its complete fulfillment. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(1 Thessalonians 4:17)</strong></span>.<br /><br /><strong>Past -</strong> The moment we were saved, we were reconciled forever.<br /><strong>Present -</strong> For all of our Christian life we are being reconciled, in manner of life, to our Saviour's. <br /><strong>Future -</strong> Finally, when we are with the Lord in glory, we will be reconciled in body as well as in soul and spirit. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Lorne Perry</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8777</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 7</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Then drew near unto Him all the publicans and sinners for to hear Him. And the Pharisees and scribes murmured, saying, This Man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them. Luke 15:1-2.</strong></span><br /><br />When publicans sat down to eat with the Lord, the scribes and Pharisees found fault: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Why do ye eat and drink with publicans and sinners? and Jesus answering said unto them, they that are whole need not a physician; but they that are sick. I came not to call the righteous but sinners to repentance." (Luke 5:30-32)</strong></span> The Lord replied the physician seeks the sick rather than those who thought they needed Him not. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Luke 5:27-32)</strong></span>. <br /><br />The "gospel" according to the Pharisees--<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"This man receiveth sinners and eateth with them"</strong></span>--was spoken when<span style="color: blue;"><strong> "publicans and sinners drew near to hear Him" (Luke 15:1-24)</strong></span>. Then our Lord spoke those inimitable parables of the lost things and their finding. The ways of the Lord were always ways of grace and truth. He never sought the approbation of men. In a proud world among a proud people, the Son of God walked a path of unprecedented lowliness and grace.<br /><br />When the impotent man was healed at the pool of Bethesda <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(John 5)</strong></span>, the Jews interrogated the happy, healed man carrying his bed home on his back, </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"What man is that which said unto thee, Take up thy bed and walk?" (John 5:12).</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong> </strong></span> The man did not even know His name! It says, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Jesus had conveyed Himself away, a multitude being in that place" (John 5:13)</strong></span>. How unlike the ways of men who crave all the publicity which exploits will bring to them.<br /><br />God had said of old, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"My ways are not your ways" (Isaiah 55:8)</strong></span>. It was true of the Lord Jesus; the ways of men were not His ways. Men thought little of God in heaven or of what would be pleasing to Him. This was everything to Christ our Lord. He did everything that pleased the Father. The Father's Name, the Father's kingdom, and the Father's will were the great dominating motives of the life of our Lord. He cared for nothing else. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Leonard Sheldrake </span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><br /></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8778 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 8</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 16px;">"BE MUCH IN PRAYER"</span></em></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 16px;"><strong>Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; and for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make know the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. <br />Ephesians 6:18-20</strong>. </span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Be much in prayer</strong>,</em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> in this dark hour, for great are Satan's wiles; </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Far worse than persecuting power are his seductive smiles.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">And error comes in such disguise--smooth-tongued and circumspect-- </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">That none but truth-enlightened eyes the monster can detect! <br /><br />And fair profession, hand in hand with evil, stalks abroad But to deceive. O! who can stand, save those who <strong><em>trust in God</em>?</strong> <br /><br /><strong><em>Be much in prayer</em></strong> for labouring ones, who in the Master's name, And with the Master's message, run His mercy to proclaim. <br /><br />The harvest's great, the workmen few, and naught of time to spare; Iniquity increases too--<strong><em>remember this</em></strong> in prayer. <br /><br /><span style="color: blue;"><strong>I commend you to God, and to the word of His grace. Acts 20:32</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Christian Treasury - June 1988</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8779 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 9</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Jonah prayed unto the Lord his God out of the fish's belly. Jonah 2:1 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Even when the the shipmaster wakened Jonah out of his sleep, and told him to call on his God, Jonah, made no attempt to pray. He was fleeing from the presence of Jehovah, and that is no time to pray unto Him. He even made a frank confession of his sin to the whole ship's company, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Jonah 1:9)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> but still he did not pray. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We have noted that solemn scene on deck, as the seamen reluctantly took up Jonah, and cast him forth into the sea. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(1:15)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. It is amazing that even as Jonah was about to die, he apparently made not the slightest attempt to come to God in prayer, though surely there had been a beginning of the restoration of of his soul. It often takes some time to bring about full restoration.</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Do not think that Jonah was any worse that we are today. The story before us is only an illustration of how very far from God, even a saint and a prophet, one who has been used of God to do His work, may get. Even the sight of death itself did not break down the barrier that Jonah's sin and pride had raised between God and his heart. True, the barrier was all on his part, but he would not humble himself to turn to God and cry for mercy.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">How wonderful are the ways of God. What the storm, the raging waves, what even death itself, could not accomplish, God now brought about by his own ways. Alone in the belly of the fish, amidst that awful darkness, and that deathly silence, utterly without hope of deliverance by the hand of man--<span style="color: blue;"><strong>"<em>Jonah prayed</em> unto the Lord his God out of the fish's belly." (2:1)</strong></span><br /><br />This is the way Jonah described that moment. Worse, far worse to Jonah, than a few short moment under the stormy waves, and then death; were those long hours, three days and three nights <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Psalm 116:3-4)</strong></span> <strong>"in the belly of Sheol." </strong>The proud, rebellious spirit bowed at last, and Jonah prayed. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Jonah - G. C. Willis</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8780</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 10</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>THE INCARNATION OF THE SON OF GOD</em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary...thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call His name JESUS...the Holy Ghost shall come upon thee, and the power of the Highest shall over shadow thee: therefore also that holy thing which shall be born of thee shall be called the Son of God. Luke 1:30-35</span> <br /> </strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When the fulness of time had come, that is the appointed time, the Son of God appeared on earth in the form of man. The Word which was in the beginning, the Word that was with the Father, the Word that was God, the Word by whom all things were made, that Word was made flesh and dwelt on earth. He who subsisted in the form of God, emptied Himself and took upon Himself the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The incarnation is a deep mystery, the depths of which human reason can never fathom. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"No man knoweth the Son, but the Father." (Matthew 11:27)</strong></span>. We must approach it in the spirit of deep reverence. In Luke 1, we have the record of the divine announcement of the incarnation as it was made to the virgin, who had found favour in the sight of God. Was there ever such a message given to Gabriel before? </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Great as the revelation was which he was commissioned to carry to praying Daniel, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Daniel 9:21)</strong></span> the communication to the virgin Mary here is far greater. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">A. C. Gaebelein </span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>Thou wast "the image," in man's lowly guise, of the invisible to mortal eyes;<br />Come from His bosom, from the heavens above, we see in Thee incarnate, "God is love."<br /><br />Thy lips the Father's name to us reveal; what burning power in all Thy words we feel,<br />When to our raptured hearts we hear Thee tell the heavenly glories which Thou know'st so well.<br /><br />No curse of law, in Thee was sovereign grace, and now what glory in Thine unveiled face!<br />Thou didst attract the wretched and the weak, Thy joy the wand'rers and the lost to seek. </strong></em></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8781</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 11</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. Mark 16:15</span></span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Just after the end of WW II some dear Christians were preaching the gospel on the streets of downtown Ottawa, Canada. A young man dressed in a military uniform stopped to listen. After the preaching had ended, some spoke to him and found that he was a dear and warmhearted believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, just returned from combat in Europe. He had served as a chaplain near the front lines, seeking to comfort soldiers brought in to the field hospital, who had been wounded in battle.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The army chaplain recounted a most heart warming incident that took place during heavy fighting. He began by mentioning that before going into combat, he had been trained when dealing with wounded soldiers, to find out "what faith" each was of so that he could "more effectively" be a comfort to them. <br /><br />One night, at the height of the battle, a seriously wounded soldier was carried into the field hospital. The chaplain immediately made his way to the young soldier's cot and leaning over, asked his standard question; "What church do you attend?" There was silence for a moment and then a whispered response; "I'm of Paul's persuasion".</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">This puzzled the chaplain very much for he had never heard of such a church group before. "This must be of some new denomination" he thought to himself. Turning to others in the ward, he asked if anyone there had ever heard of a church named "Paul's Persuasion" and if so, could they tell him anything about its beliefs. But no one in the ward had ever heard of such a church.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Leaning back over the wounded soldier, he again asked him to try and describe the church or denomination to which he belonged. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In a weak but steady whisper the wounded young man replied: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"...I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 8:38,39).</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">May we too be thus <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"persuaded"--"...I know Whom I have believed, and am persuaded that He is abe to keep that which I have committed unto Him..." (2 Timothy 1:12).</strong></span> </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Christian Shepherd - 2005</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8782 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 12</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>A MIND AT PERFECT PEACE </em><br /><br /><span style="color: blue;">Bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:5 </span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Are there any tyrants more harassing than our own thoughts? Control of deeds and words seems a small thing in comparison; but have we not been apt to fancy that we really cannot help our thoughts? Instead of our dominating them, they have dominated us; and we have not expected nor even thought it possible, to be set free from the manifold tyranny of vain thoughts, and still less of wandering thoughts.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Yet, all the time, </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>here</em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> has been God's Word about this hopeless, helpless matter only <em><strong>where</strong></em> has been our faith? It is very strong language that the inspiring Spirit uses here--not "thoughts" in general but definitely, and with no room for distressing exceptions, <em>"<strong>every</strong></em> thought." Must it not be glorious rest to have <em><strong>every</strong></em> thought of day and night brought into sweet, quiet, complete captivity to Jesus, entirely "obedient to the faith," to His holy and loving influence, to His beautiful and perfect law?</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We should not have dared to hope or dream of such a rest to our souls; we should not have guessed it included in that promise to those who take the yoke of Christ upon them; and if we could find one text stating that it was not any part of God's infinitely gracious purpose for us, we should only say, "Of course, for it stands to reason it could not be!"</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Not yet thou knowest what I do within thine own weak breast<br />To mold thee to My image true, and fit thee for My rest.<br />But yield thee to My loving skill; the veiled work of grace,<br />From day to day progressing still, it is not thine to trace.</span></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">(Opened Treasures - Frances Ridley Havergal)</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8783</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 13</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>What shall I do to inherit eternal life?...Sell all that thou hast, and distribute to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven." Luke 18:18,23</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">In the cathedral at Freiburg there was a wonderful organ. One day a man entered and asked the custodian if he might play upon the great instrument. The old keeper finally granted permission, grudgingly. The stranger sat down and slowly began to play. The attention of the old sexton was arrested; he dropped into a seat and listened spellbound; soon tears coursed down his wrinkled face. He had never head such music before.<br /><br />The stranger arose to go, and the custodian followed him silently to the door. Finally he managed to ask, "Who are you?" The visitor answered simply, "I am Mendelssohn." And all that the old man could do was to throw up his hands and cry, "And to think I almost refused to let you play the organ!" Every man is the custodian of the organ of his soul. What pitiful discords we make when we try to play our own instruments unaided, try to live our own lives by our own strength. Everywhere worn faces, weary hearts, broken spirits tell the story; the custodian cannot play his own organ.<br /><br />But One who is greater than Mendelssohn asks to sit at the keyboard of your heart. He will bring forth music from it that you never dreamed could be there--melody instead of melancholy, hallelujahs instead of heartaches. Not only will it thrill you but others will be drawn to hear for they will perceive that you have quit playing and that the Master plays instead.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>Down in the human heart, crushed by the tempter,<br /> Feelings lie buried that grace can restore; touched by a loving heart,<br /> Wakened by kindness, chords that are broken will vibrate once more.</strong></span></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;">Doubly true is that when His heart and hand take us in charge! I think of the rich young man who came to Jesus. What a magnificent keyboard of possibilities he carried! But he chose to be his own musician and went away sorrowful "for he had great possessions." But of what use is an organ if it cannot be played, and of what use is a life abounding in promise if we deny Him who alone can make anything of it? </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;">Jesus is passing by. Through the ages He has been bringing heavenly harmony from even the most unsightly organs. Who else could have made anything of Simon Peter? What a harsh instrument was Saul of Tarsus! Think of Augustine, the slave of lust; what an unpromising prospect was Moody, the shoe salesman; what melody could be expected of Gipsy Smith?</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;">Mind you, we never were meant to be the organists of our souls. We cannot play but we are the custodians; we can let Jesus play or refuse Him. All the trouble in human lives begins when the custodian tries to be organist. The playing is God's part; the permission is ours. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif">In Tune With Heaven - Vance Havner - August 23,1936</span></strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8784</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 14</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">And David rose up early in the morning...and went, as Jesse had commanded him... (1 Samuel 17:20) </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He comes into the camp, where his brothers accuse his confidence in God and his faith, of being pride and naughtiness of heart <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(v.28)</strong></span>. We too can ever expect the same treatment ourselves in following the simple path of faith. Our relatives can no more understand our motives than the Lord's brothers could understand His. <br /><br />David answers Eliab: <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"What have I now done?" </strong></span><strong>"Was it not laid upon me"? (v.29)</strong>. What had he done to deserve being insulted? Did he not have a reason for going down to his brothers, when the God of Israel was daily being insulted by the enemy?</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">David asks <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"what shall be done to the man that killeth this Philistine, and taketh away the reproach from Israel?" (v.26)</strong></span>. He learns that <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"the king will enrich him with great riches, and will give him his daughter, and make his father's house free in Israel." (v.25)</strong></span>. <br /><br />But it is not to obtain this reward that he enters the campaign; it is for God, for Israel's deliverance, to make the Lord known in all the earth, and that all the congregation should know how the Lord saves <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(vv.46-47)</strong></span>. Doubtless his victory gives him, like Christ, great riches, a bride, and the liberation of his father's house, but this the <em><strong>result</strong></em> rather than the purpose of his work. <br /><br />David announces to Saul what he is going to accomplish <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(v.32)</strong></span>. The king, who can think of nothing but human methods, wants to provide him with his own armour; but David cannot go with weapons belonging to the flesh, and he has never even tried them. He wants no other weapons than those a shepherd uses to defend or regather his sheep. As for us, the Word is that weapon that faith alone can use; it overthrows Satan. Human labour can have no part in such a conflict. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">(2 Samuel - H. L. Rossier)</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8785 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 15</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>And upon the first day of the week, when the disciples came together to break bread, Paul preached unto them...and there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep...and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead. And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said, trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him. Acts 20:7-10</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">What is before us now is the </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"break of day." (Acts 20:11)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. This is the Christian's to-morrow. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"The Morning Star" (Revelation 2:28)</strong></span> illumines the sky, and we wait for our departure. Paul </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"talked a long while even till break of day, so <em>he departed</em>."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> And so the church will depart. As Paul departed just before the day dawned, so it will be with the Church. All true members of the Body of Christ will depart at dawn, before God's final judgments overtake this world, and in order that the saints may appear with their Lord when He comes to reign.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"And they brought the young man alive and were not a little comforted." (Acts 20:12)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. Why should it tell us this except it be for our own comfort? As Paul says with reference to his doctrine of the Coming: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Wherefore comfort one another with these words." (1 Thessalonians 4:18)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. Eternal youth will characterize the Church, as Him, whose bride and companion she will be and of whom it is written: </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Thou hast the dew of thy youth." (Psalm 110:3)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. As sharers of His life, no mark of age, or sorrow or change will ever be upon us.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The midnight darkness will be over; the storm and stress of the Church's pilgrim journey will be ended, and the <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"break of day" (Song of Solomon 2:17)</strong></span> for her will be that which finally will be ushered in. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober." (1 Thessalonians 5:6)</strong></span>. We are not of the night nor of darkness, and at the break of day we shall depart. <u>This is the period for which we wait</u>. The Church's pilgrim journey is almost over; her sad history is almost ended; <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"let us lift up our heads for our redemption draweth nigh. (Luke 21:28)</strong></span> </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Break of Day - Russell Elliott </span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8786 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 16</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>For every creature of God is good, and nothing to be refused, if it be received with thanksgiving. . . . </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>1 Timothy 4:4-7</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong> </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The Apostle has set before us certain dangers against which the Spirit expressly warns us. Timothy was to put the brethren in remembrance of these things, and so doing would prove himself to be a good servant of Jesus Christ nourished up in the words of faith and of good doctrine with which he was fully acquainted. The seducing spirits, of which the Holy Spirit speaks, sought to exalt man with a sense of religious importance and sanctity. The true servant seeks to exalt Christ by ministering the truth.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">To be a good servant of Jesus Christ, it is not enough to know the truth, and hold the truth; we need to be nourished by the truth, and, in practise, to follow up fully the truth. </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Our own souls must be fed if we are to feed others</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. We must be nourished, not simply in the words of teachers, however true, but "with the words of the faith" which convey to us "the good teaching" of Christianity and, if followed up, will produce a practical effect in our lives, preserving us from the evils of the later times. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(v.6)</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Having exhorted us to follow the truth, the Apostle warns us to refuse all that which is outside <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"the words of faith" (v.6)</strong></span>. The imaginations of men will always tend to profanity and foolishness which the Apostle characterises with contempt as </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"old wives' fables" (v.7).</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Our great "exercise" should be to be found walking in piety.<br /><br />The good servant will exercise himself unto piety that he may be <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"meet for the Master's use, and prepared unto every good work." (2 Timothy 2:21).</strong></span> We may, at times, like the Corinthian saints, be very active in service, and boast in our gifts, and like them be very unspiritual through not exercising ourselves unto piety. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 14px;">(Piety is that individual confidence in God that takes up every circumstance of life in relation to God) 1 Timothy - Hamilton Smith </span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 16px;">N.J. Hiebert - 8787</span></em></strong></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 17</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>I know it is so of a truth: but how should man be just with God? If He will contend with Him, he cannot answer him one of a thousand. He is wise in heart, and mighty in strength: who hath hardened himself against Him, and hath prospered? Which removeth the mountains, and they know not: which over-turneth them in His anger. </strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Job 9:2-5</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We would ask ourselves the question: How is it possible that God's power works for salvation, that His good news goes out to all and is received in faith by repentant sinners without distinction of race, position or status? In </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Romans 1:16</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> and the following verses, Paul mentions that in his message of the good news </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">God's righteousness</strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> is revealed and applied. <br /><br />Later on we find how this is possible </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Romans 3:21-31)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, namely, on the basis of the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus accomplished once and for all. These passages answer Job's question of how man can be righteous with God </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>(Job 9:2)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. They also explain that this declaration of righteousness, which was impossible under the old covenant, is now made possible and makes us acceptable and precious to God.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">What is the basis for this message? <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For He hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in HIm." (2 Corinthians 5:21)</strong></span>. Blessed effect of His sacrifice, praise God! </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">A. E. Bouter</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><em><span style="font-size: 14px;">The perfect righteousness of God is witnessed in the Saviour's blood; 'Tis in the cross of Christ we trace His righteousness, yet wondrous grace.<br /><br />The sinner who believes is free, can say, "The Saviour died for me:" Can point to the atoning blood, and say, "This made my peace with God." </span></em><br /><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">A. Midlane</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8788</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 18</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Charity suffereth long...rejoiceth not in iniquity. </strong></span></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>1 Corinthians 13:4,6.</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">The apostle here unfolds love's true character. The first eight qualities of love show that love leads to the entire renunciation of self with its impatience, lack of consideration, jealousy, aggressiveness, self-importance, lack of courteousness, selfishness, and quarrelsomeness.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">1. Love has long patience. The flesh is ever impatient, but love can suffer long and wait God's time. Fleshly endurance is soon exhausted; love does not wear out.<br />2. Love is kind. The flesh, even if it waits, will often do so in a fretful and resentful spirit; but love, while waiting, can retain a kindly spirit of consideration for others.<br />3. Love is not emulous of others. The flesh ever seeks a place above others, and is jealous of favour or position bestowed on others rather than self. Love can delight without a thought of envy in honours bestowed upon another.<br />4. Love is not insolent and rash. The flesh is aggressive, rashly pushing itself into prominence. Love is not self-assertive, but rather retiring and reticent.<br />5. Love is not puffed up. The flesh is often vain and filled with self-importance. Love takes the lowly place in service to others.<br />6. Love does not behave in an unseemly manner. The flesh, even upper class flesh, can be rude and unmannerly. Love will lead the highest by birth, as well as the lowest, to be courteous.<br />7. Love does not seek what is its own. The flesh is ever selfish and seeks its own interest. Love is unselfish and disinterested, seeking the good of others.<br />8. Love is not quickly provoked. The flesh is ever touchy and quick to take offence and resent insults. Love is slow to anger and not easily provoked. Love, indeed, can be provoked, for we are warned that it is possible to provoke the Lord, but the Lord is slow to anger, He is not quickly provoked. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">H. Smith. </span></span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> <br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8789 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 19</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>And the apostles gathered themselves together unto Jesus, and told Him all things, both what they had done, and what they had taught. Mark 6:30.</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Surely we could not do better than follow the example of the apostles in this respect. How much we should learn if we did so, and how gently He would remind us of many a failure to present the truth, or if we presented it correctly, how much we have failed to preach it in the power of the Spirit. <br /><br />But we have to do with One who loves us, and this gives us confidence in telling Him everything. It is even so in human relationships, for when we are assured of one another's love we do not hesitate to tell everything. Much more should it be so when we speak to the Lord.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">If we would wash another's feet aright our motive, like that of Jesus, must spring from love. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Now before the feast of the passover, when Jesus knew that His hour was come that He should depart out of this world unto the Father, having loved His own which were in the world, He loved them unto the end." (John 13:1)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>The measure of our love indicates the measure of our usefulness</em></u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. As the apostle teaches us--we may spend the whole of our substance in philanthropic work, and yet without love it is of no avail.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Knowledge puffeth up, but love edifieth." (1 Corinthians 8:1)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> I have noticed in small meetings, when </span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><u>love</u></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> is strongly developed in the Christians, they grow, though there is no gifted teacher among them.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"And whatsoever thou spendest more, when I come again, I will repay thee. (Luke 10:35).</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Spend anything you like on a child of God, and He will undertake to repay you.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Love to Christ is the mainspring of holiness. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">(Edward Dennett)</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8790 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 20</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>Herod the king stretched forth his hands to vex certain of the church...he killed James...he proceeded further to take Peter also...and when he had apprehended him, he put him in prison, and delivered him to four quaternions of soldiers to keep him. Acts 12:1- 4</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Whose man are you? Face this question honestly. A thousand times better is it to be</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong style="font-size: 16px;">"the prisoner of Jesus Christ," (Ephesians 3:1)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> as our beloved Peter was here, than be apparently a free man, and yet all the while be the prisoner of Satan; lust, passion, and sin forming, not two, but countless unseen chains, that bind the soul in a veritable condemned cell--the world--and ensure the execution of its final judgment at the hand of God.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">But the prayer of faith on earth, had moved the hand of God on high, and the time was now come for Him to step in, and do His will. No sentry said, "Ho! who goes there?" as the angel of the Lord entered the cell of the soundly sleeping Peter and <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"a light shined in the prison." (Acts 12:7)."</strong></span> God always brings in light. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"In Him is no darkness at all," (1 John 1:5)</strong></span> is the character of His nature. I presume Peter's two keepers slept too, for they saw not the light, nor heard the voice, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Arise up quickly,"</strong></span> which the now awakened Peter heeds, for he had been aroused by the angel's touch, ere he <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"raised him up." (v.7)</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">It would appear that as Peter obeys the call to rise, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"his chains fell off from his hands." (v.7)</strong></span> No turnkey or smith's tool effects this. When God sets Himself to unlock man's fetters, how noiseless, rapid, and effectual is the work; and even the clanking chains, as they fall on the floor, arouse not the insensible keepers.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Gird thyself, and bind on thy sandals," (v.8)</strong></span> is the next command. There is no undue hurry; all is orderly. Peter obeys, and then hears, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Cast thy garment about thee, and follow me." (v.8)</strong></span> Thinking he <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"saw a vision," (v.9)</strong></span> and not knowing <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"that it was true which was done by the angel,"</strong></span> he nevertheless accompanies him. The first and second guard are safely passed without interruption, and then <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"they came unto the iron gate that leadeth unto the city, which opened to them of his own accord; and they went out and passed on through one street; and forthwith the angel departed from him" (v.10)</strong></span>. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He came to the house of Mary...where many were gathered together praying. (v.12). </strong></span></span><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;"> W.T.P Wolston</span></strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><strong> </strong></span><br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8791</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 21</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Every man's work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man's <u><em>work</em></u> of what sort it is. 1 Corinthians 3:13 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">The sins and iniquity of the Christian can never be brought into judgment. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Hebrews10:17)</strong></span> Christ has already borne their judgment on the cross, and put them all away forever by the sacrifice of Himself. <u>There will be no second judgment of the believer's sins</u>. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But this trial of the quality of our <em><strong>works</strong></em> should not be thought of with fear and dread, but as one of our greatest privileges; because then shall be fulfilled that precious word. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"But then shall I know even as also I am known."</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">God is light and God is love. He is all love--all light for His children. But His love will have them in the light as He is Himself. This will be perfect blessedness; because we shall then be in the perfect light as well as the perfect love of God. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all." (1 John 1:5)</strong></span> Our new, our divine nature loves the light--delights in it. The least darkness would be an insupportable burden. <br /><br />To be in the light, is to be manifested, for light makes manifest. Nothing can be concealed there. And we would not, blessed be His name, have one moment of our history with His tender, gracious dealings towards us, left in the dark. The heart shrinks from the very thought, notwithstanding all our weakness. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that everyone may receive the things done in His body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad." (2 Corinthians 5:10)</strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong> </strong></span></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">When the whole course of my life is manifested in the perfect light of God--of God in Christ. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Then shall I know even as also I am known." (1 Corinthians 13:12)</strong></span> My judgment of all that was good and bad in that life, will be according to the perfect judgment of God. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;"> Andrew Miller</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8792 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 22</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">"Why standest Thou afar off, O Lord?" (Psalm 10:1)</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble." (Psalm 46:1)</strong></span> <br /><br />But He permits trouble to pursue us, as though He were indifferent to its overwhelming pressure, that we may be brought to the end of ourselves, and led to discover the treasure of darkness, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Isaiah 45:3)</strong></span> the unmeasurable gains of tribulation <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Romans 5:3-5)</strong></span>. <br /><br />We may be sure that He who permits the suffering is with us in it. It may be that we shall see Him only when the trial is passing; but we must dare to believe that He never leaves the crucible. <br /><br />Our eyes are holden; and we cannot behold Him whom our soul loveth. It is dark--the bandages blind us so that we cannot see the form of our High Priest; but He is there, deeply touched. Let us not rely on feeling, but on faith in His unswerving fidelity; and though we see Him not, let us talk to Him. <br /><br />Directly we begin to speak to Jesus, as being literally present, though His presence is veiled, there comes an answering voice which shows that He is in the shadow, keeping watch upon His own. <br /><br />Your Father is as near when you journey through the dark tunnel <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Psalm 23:4)</strong></span> as when under the open heaven! </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Selected</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>"What though the path be all unknown?<br />What though the way be drear?<br />Its shades I traverse not alone<br />When steps of Thine are near." </strong></em><br /><br />N.J. Hiebert - 8793</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 23</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>But the dove found no rest for the sole of her foot, and she returned unto him....And the dove came in to him in the evening; and, lo, in her mouth was an olive leaf." (Genesis 8:9-11)</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 15px;">God knows just when to withhold from us any visible sign of encouragement, and when to grant us such a sign. How good it is that we may trust Him anyway! When all visible evidences that He is remembering us are are withheld, that is best; He wants us to realize that His Word, His promise of remembrance, is more substantial and dependable than any evidence of our senses. </span><br /><br />When He sends the visible evidence, that is well also; we appreciate it all the more after we have trusted Him without it. Those who are readiest to trust God without other evidence than His Word always receive the greatest number of visible evidences of love. </span><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">C. G. Trumbull</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>Believing Him; if storm-clouds gather darkly 'round,<br />And even if the heaven seem brass, without a sound? <br />He hears each prayer and even notes the sparrow's fall. <br /> And praising Him; when sorrow, grief, and pain are near,<br /> And even when we lose the thing that seems most dear?<br /> Our loss is gain. Praise Him; in Him we have our ALL. <br />Our hand in His; e'en though the path seems long and drear<br />We scarcely see a step ahead, and almost fear?<br />He guides aright. He has it thus to keep us near. <br /> And satisfied; when every path is blocked and bare,<br /> And worldly things are gone and dead which were so fair?<br /> Believe and rest and trust in Him, He comes to stay.</em></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em>Delays are not refusals; many a prayer is registered, and underneath it the words: "My time is not yet come." God has a set time as well as a set purpose, and He who orders the bounds of our habitation orders also the time of our deliverance.</em> </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Selected </span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8794</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 24</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: He is risen; He is not here. Mark 16:6</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">The resurrection of our Lord is the fundamental fact of our faith. If it is not true, Christianity is a stream without a source, an effect without a cause. While no one saw the Saviour rise, no event of history is better attested. Among the familiar proofs are the empty tomb, and the appearance of Jesus to His followers. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Of the circumstances attending this supreme event, different ones are related by each gospel writer, and with a variety of detail. Mark gives a vivid picture of the women who visit the place of burial and find that the body of Jesus is gone. Their errand is one of love but also of unbelief; the Master promised to rise on the third day; but now, early on that Sunday morning, they are approaching the tomb, expecting to anoint His dead body. They are anxious as well as sorrowful, wondering how the stone may be removed to give them access to the sepulchre. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">As is often the experience in life, they find that the dreaded difficulty disappears before it is encountered; </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"they saw that the stone was rolled away. (v.4)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> As they enter, they find that the sepulchre is empty; yet not empty, for an angel is present to give the astonishing explanation: Be not amazed <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"He is risen; "He is not here." (v.6)</strong></span> There is no other explanation of that empty tomb. The supposition that the body has been stolen, or that Jesus never really had died, or that the disciples imagined he had risen, or that they invented the falsehood of a resurrection--no one of these can be accepted except by prejudiced skepticism or childish credulity. <br /><br />Knowledge, however, involves responsibility. Those who know of a risen Christ must be His witnesses. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>"But go your way, tell His disciples and Peter that He goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see Him, as He said unto you." (v.7)</strong></span>. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Gospel of Mark - Charles R. Erdman</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong><em>"Christ died for our sins...He was buried...He rose again the third day...He was seen by Cephas, then of the twelve...was seen of above five hundred at once." (1 Corinthians 15:3-6) </em></strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><em>N.J. Hiebert - 8795 </em></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 25</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. 2 Corinthians 7:1</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">I have been sent some beautiful Caladium flowers. When this flower first opens it is hot inside (its temperature has been taken, - 104 F), but as it grows to perfection this excitement of heat passes. The perfect flower is normal.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">In the spiritual world, too, there can be heat and excitement. The ferment of an old truth newly apprehended (for there is no such thing as a new truth) may very easily cause it. The devil delights to have it so, and it is easy to see why. If we become interested in ourselves and occupied in taking our own temperatures, so to speak, then that truth which should bring blessing will either slip out of sight or be put out of focus.<br /><br />Our Lord said <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(Luke 12:27)</strong></span>, <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"Consider the (Caladiums) how they grow: they toil not, they spin not." </strong></span> God lays His cool hand upon them and perfects them. Think of that word in <span style="color: blue;"><strong>2 Corinthians 7:1: <em>perfecting holiness</em></strong></span>. There is a crisis of new birth, then -- if the Lord has His way unhindered -- a quiet growth and perfecting, which may take the form of a series of crises. But always it is an inwardly quiet thing. <br /><br />Just before Paul wrote about perfecting holiness he wrote about common life <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(2 Corinthians 6:3-10)</strong></span>. Isn't this a wonderful word for us? <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"</strong><em><strong>Giving no offence in anything, that the ministry be not blamed: but in all things approving ourselves as the ministers of God, in much patience. . . . "</strong></em></span><br /><br />I am glad patience comes first. But read it all. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Whispers of His Power - Amy Carmichael. </span></span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8796 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 26</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which I am apprehended of Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:12</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When an ardent hiker heads for the high country, he keeps his eyes fastened on the far ridges and shining summit. He stimulates himself and steels his resolve to reach the top by focusing his attention on the ultimate goal. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">If he has a travelling companion, a hiking partner, he will also give him much of his thought, time, and interest. By doing this, the obstacles and hardships and strain of the climb are scarcely noticed. The tough, rough spots are taken in stride without undue stress or strain. His eyes and interest are not centered on the immediate problems along the path, but on reaching the mountaintop. <br /><br />It is precisely the same in our walk with God. Where is your focal point of interest? Are you completely preoccupied with the petty pressures and problems of the immediate moment? Are you so taken up with self-interest that you can't see the shining heights of God's purposes and plan for the world? Is your gaze only on the ground of your grinding, grumbling grievances, or does God Himself fill your view?<br /><br />Learn to refocus your attention on Christ. Make Him your confidante. Keep Him always in view. Set your will deliberately to see Him; then press on toward the destination of the high country and lofty life to which He has called you. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Songs of My Soul - W. Phillip Keller </span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8797</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 27</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 15px;">For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts." Isaiah 55:9</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">Consider the boyhood of <u>James A. Garfield</u>, 20th President of the USA (Born November 19,1831, <u>Assassinated, September 19, 1881</u>).<br /><br />His widowed mother, with a splendid independence of spirit, would not go to live with her kin after her husband's death. Although she had a little brood of children to care for and to bring up, and her ideals for their education were high, she stayed on the little farm, and those youngsters did a man's part for the family. <br /><br />James had always wanted to go to sea, and the nearest thing he could do in that line was to get a job as driver on a canal boat. One cold night he was suddenly thrown into the canal by accident. He could not swim. It was midnight. Nobody heard his cries for help. He managed to get his hands on a rope which was attached to the boat but as he pulled on it to draw himself aboard, the rope kept coming toward him in his hands, and it appeared as if he would not be able to save himself. <br /><br />At the very desperate peak of his need the rope tightened and held. It had kinked and caught in a crevice, and he drew himself aboard. There he sat in the midnight alone in his wet clothes doing some serious thinking, and the net result of that thinking was that he felt in his heart that he had been saved, as he believed, <strong><em>by God</em></strong> for the sake of his mother and for something better than "canalling" as he put it. So he went home, and as he looked in the window he saw his mother praying. <br /><br />She was praying for him! That was the beginning of his pursuit of a higher education. When he entered school he had six cents in his pocket, and at the first church service he attended after he entered school he placed the six cents in the collection box and made up his mind he would see what he could do absolutely on his own.<br /><br />He obtained board and lodging with mending for $1.06</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;">1/4 cents</span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"> per week. Notice the quarter of a cent. There is a world of meaning in that fraction. Those were simple days. Motives were simple, purposes were simple, principles were simple, and goals were clear. <br /><br />If the Weaver of our life's pattern chooses another plan than the one we thought to use, is He not wiser than we? </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Mountain Trailways for Youth</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8798</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 28</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>He is despised and rejected of men; a Man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief . . ." Isiah 53:3 </strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Our Lord is the leader of this company. He was a Man of Sorrows and acquainted with grief. He was tempted in all points as we are. Nobody ever walked through so dark a Valley and He walked it by Himself. We can never suffer as He suffered, die as He died. He has been through the Valley and we need fear no evil for He walks it with us. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">So cheer up, my fellow traveler, wending your way through dangers, toils, and snares you will meet a host of kindred souls. You have joined the bereaved at the price of heartache and tears. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">But, best of all, as with the Hebrew children in the fiery furnace, there is Someone else in the fire; you are in the company of the supreme Sufferer who drank the bitter cup to the dregs. Your grief is but a passing twinge compared to the agony of His soul. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When I preach about these things, I can see some faces light up among the congregation. The Spirit blows on the coals and they glow. Others merely look on uncomprehending. They do not know and there is no way to share with them. They have not been through the Valley. <br /><br />The Valley is not endless, it will not stretch on forever. Ira D. Sankey, the great gospel singer, went blind in his later years. When a friend visited Him, Sankey sat down at his organ and sang with that voice that had blessed so many: </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><em><strong>There'll be no dark valley when Jesus comes<br />To gather His love ones home.</strong></em></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Vance Havner</span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><strong>He that shall come will come, and will not tarry. Hebrews 10:37<br />Even so, Lord Jesus. Revelation 22:20</strong></span></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8799 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 29</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>He that followeth after righteousness and mercy findeth life, righteousness, and honour. Proverbs 21:21 </strong></span><br /><br />To steadily pursue righteousness and loving kindness, exemplifying both in the walk and ways, this is the sure road to what all men desire--life and honour. They are linked together by uprightness. The empty glory of this world, the applause of the carnally-minded, are worth little after all. <br /><br />But to be honoured by God, and by those who love Him,--this abides forever. He delights to bestow His blessing upon those who esteem His Word and yield obedience to His truth. For the truth was not given to be a source of intellectual enjoyment alone, though it is that; but that it might be manifested in the life, as it was to the full in our Lord Jesus Christ.<br /><br />Coupled with moral integrity He would have that gentle loving- kindness which commends the truth to those who might, by severity on the part of its adherents, be driven therefrom. When grace and truth thus together control the being, life, righteousness, and honour must be the happy result. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Notes on Proverbs - H.A. Ironside </span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>Love divine, all praise excelling, joy of heaven to earth come down! Bless us with Thy rich indwelling, all Thy faithful mercies crown! Saviour, Thee we'd still be blessing, serve Thee here, as soon above. Praise Thee, Saviour, without ceasing, glory in Thy dying love.<br /><br />First-fruits of Thy new creation, faithful, holy, may we be, Joyful in Thy full salvation, more and more conformed to Thee! Changed from glory into glory, till in heaven we take our place, Then to worship and adore Thee, lost in wonder, love, and praise!</em></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 13px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif">Charles Wesley </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8800 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 30</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">The lips of the wise disperse knowledge. </span></strong></span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 16px;">Proverbs 15:7 </span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">How well I recollect this disappointment to myself, again and again, when a mere child! In those early seeking days I never could understand why, sometimes, a good man whom I heard preach or speak as if he loved Christ very much, talked about all sorts of other things when we came back from church or missionary meeting.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">I did so wish he would have talked about the Saviour, whom I wanted, but had not found. It would have been so much more interesting even to the apparently thoughtless and merry little girl.<br /><br />How could he help it, I wondered, if he cared for me, a "<span style="color: blue;"><strong>Pearl of Great Price" (Matthew 13:46)</strong></span>, as I was sure I should care for it if I only could find it! And, oh, why didn't they ever talk to me about it, instead of about my lessons or their little girls at home?<br /><br />They did not know how their conversation was observed and compared with their sermon or speech, and how a hungry little soul went empty away from the supper-table. </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Kept for the Master's Use - Frances Ridley Havergal </span></span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 14px;">Tell it again! tell it again!<br />Salvation's story repeat o'er and o'er<br />Till none can say of the children of men,<br />"Nobody ever has told me before".</span><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><br />Mrs. M. B. C. Slade</span></strong></em><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8801 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">March 31</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>He that descended is the same also that ascended up far above all heavens, that He might fill all things. Ephesians 4:10 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">No fact of Scripture is more wonderful that this--<u>there is a risen Man in the glory of God</u>. It is the appropriate sequel to the wonder of God having been manifested in flesh. <span style="color: blue;"><strong>(</strong></span></span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>1 Timothy 3:16)</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">We are also well within the mark when we say that no fact of Scripture is verified with such abundant care as this. In </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>1 Corinthians 15:3,4</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> the apostle Paul rehearses the gospel which he preached. The </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">death of Christ for our sins and His burial are simply stated</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">, for there was no need to verify these facts since they were beyond dispute and acknowledged by all. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">He passes to the third fact of the gospel, </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"That He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> and in support of this he adduces a host of witnesses. The resurrection of Christ had not the same publicity and was not carried out with spectacular effect as was His death. Nevertheless, it is the very keystone of the whole arch of divine truth, as </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>1 Corinthians 15:13-19</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> shows. How necessary then for the apostle to start by showing that <u>the resurrection of Christ is a fact beyond dispute</u>. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">And <u>that risen Man is in glory</u>!--a truly astounding fact! The Old Testament view of things is stated concisely in</span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong> "The heaven, even the heavens are the Lord's: but the earth hath He given to the children of men." (Psalm 115:16)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> The earth was emphatically man's sphere as he was originally created, and there was the place of his dominion. <br /><br />The New Testament view, consequent upon the exaltation of Christ, is very different and vastly enlarged. <u>The Lord Jesus is today a Man in glory</u>. God has <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"set Him down at His right hand in the heavenlies...and has put all things under His feet, and gave Him to be the head over all things..." (Ephesians 1:20-23)</strong></span>, a portion in contrast to our verse in the psalm above. </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">F. B. Hole </span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8802 </span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 1</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in Him; and He shall bring it to pass. Psalm 37:5</strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Faith is a condition of salvation and being a condition it must be our act. Saving faith is a choice and we are responsible for our actual choices. Many people pray for faith and quote </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Ephesians 2:8, "For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: and conclude that faith is the gift of God."</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> Instead of asking God for faith, it is their duty to believe.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When people say they cannot believe they utter a libel against God. A man in an enquiry room said to D. L. Moody, "I have no faith, I can't believe." Mr Moody said to him, "</span><em style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>Who</strong></em><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> can't you believe? The man replied several times that he couldn't believe, Mr. Moody each time, asking, "Who?" </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><em> </em></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Finally the man replied, "I can't believe myself." "Well," said Mr. Moody, "I don't want you to. Make yourself out a liar, but make God true."</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Believe then for all God has promised. We cannot well go outside the promises of God. </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Prayer is pleading the promises</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Faith is claiming</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><u style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">them</u><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">. There must be a </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Thus saith the Lord,"</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> either expressed or implied for all we ask, and everything that God has promised is His will for us. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">When your retire at night, you do not worry all night lest the bed break down. Neither do you hold on to something for fear of falling. Very little rest would you find in that way. No! you simply trust yourself to the bed and just rest. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Thus we should trust ourselves wholly to Jesus, and </span><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Ceased from our own works." (Hebrews 4:10)</strong></span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> We that believe do enter into rest. Why? Because someone else is going to do for us. God requires us to yield and trust in Him and His word. <u>Trust for <strong><em>all</em></strong> you need</u>. <u>Trust with <em><strong>all</strong></em> your heart</u>. <u>Trust <em><strong>all</strong></em> the time</u>. </span><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif" style="color: #202020; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 13px;">Streams in the Desert</span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">`<br />N. J. Hiebert - 8803</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 2</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"><strong>"Jesus saith unto him (John) . . . Follow thou me." John 21:22 </strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">Friends, He is a wonderful Lord you and I are called to follow. The Lord give you grace to follow Him. Who will start? But to find Him is one thing; to follow Him is another. You learn what it is to become <span style="color: blue;"><strong>"a living stone" (1 Peter 2:5)</strong></span> as you come in contact with Christ, and learn to follow Him when He eclipses everything else in your soul's vision. Possibly you say, If I were in different circumstances I would follow Christ. No, you would not. Your circumstances are the best if only you knew it. <br /><br />You know what reins are for; you know what they are to the horse. They keep the creature in order, and so do your circumstances. They keep you in order. If the banks are broken down, out comes the river, and spoils everything. If the reins break, what happens? There is generally a smash. Do you see?<br /><br />Do not you be troubled about your circumstances. <u>You will find that the Lord will sustain you in any circumstances, and even make them the channels of His grace</u>. Cleave to the Lord, and be devoted to the Lord. <u>Give Him the right place in your heart here, and He will sustain you</u>. <span style="color: blue;"><em><strong>"FOLLOW THOU ME" (John 21:22)</strong></em></span> would seem to be His last word to Peter. Has it no voice for you and me? </span><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Seekers for Light - Dr. W. T. P. Wolston, MD </span></span></strong><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;"> </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 14px; text-align: justify;"><strong><em>I have decided to follow Jesus, no turning back, no turning back. Though none go with me, by grace I'll follow, no turning back, no turning back. The world behind me, and Christ before me, no turning back, No turning back. O take this old world but give me Jesus, I'll not go back, I'll not go back. </em></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;">Sadhu Sundar Singh</strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8804</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 3</span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: blue; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><strong><span style="font-size: 17px;"><em>HE GOES BEFORE YOU</em></span></strong></span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;"><span style="color: blue;"><strong>My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. John 10:27</strong></span><br /><br />He goes before you, O my heart! Fear not to follow where He leads; </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">He knows the strength each task demands, He knows the grace each trial needs. </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">He's just a little farther on along the dark and lonely way, </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">His bleeding footprints you may trace, He goes before you all the day.</span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">He goes before you, O my heart! through deepest depth, o'er highest height; </span><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 15px; text-align: justify;">He knows where lurks the ambushed foe and what the battles you must fight; He sees the pitfalls you will meet, the place where you may faint or fall; The weariness, the pain, the tears, He goes before, He knows it all.<br /><br />He goes before you, O my heart! He does not ask that you shall bear A single pang He has not borne, a single grief He does not share; He beckons on through toil and woe, through storm or calm or tempest blast. And you shall see Him as He said, for He shall lead you home at last.<br /><br />He goes before you, O my heart! still follow on through gain or loss, And for the joy that's set before, despised the shame, endured the cross. The path your faltering steps must take is one His nail-pierced feet have trod; Through Garden, Mount and riven Tomb He went before you He is God. </span><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><strong style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;"><span face=""comic sans ms", "marker felt-thin", arial, sans-serif"><span style="font-size: 13px;">Flint's Best-Loved Poems </span></span></strong><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><br style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px; text-align: justify;" /><span style="color: #202020; font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 16px; text-align: justify;">N.J. Hiebert - 8805</span></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></div><div><span style="font-size: large;">April 4</span></div><div><br /></div>soundwordshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00435354968907506299noreply@blogger.com0