Archived.html

1/06

Eph 1:6 To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.

This is a Hebraism, and means the same as "to his glorious grace." The object was to excite thanksgiving for his glorious grace manifested in those chosen in love. The real tendency in minds that are properly affected, is not to excite opposition to God, or to lead to the charge of partiality, tyranny, or severity; it is to animate thankfulness and praise.

In accordance with this, Paul introduced the statement (Eph 1:3) by saying that God was to be regarded as "blessed" for forming and executing this plan. The meaning is, that this act of being chosen, lays the foundation of adoring gratitude and praise.

Jesus is the center as well as the channel of all blessedness. All the chosen in heaven and earth are to be gathered together in one in him. The measure of His redeeming grace is the measure of God's own eternal goodness.

By the giving of the LAW, God's justice and holiness were rendered most glorious. By the giving of the GOSPEL, his grace and mercy are made more brightly and prominently glorious.

But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come. Mark 4:29

When the corn is ripe, it is reaped for the benefit of him who sowed it. It can be of little or no use till it is ripe: so when a soul is saved from all sin, it is capable of being fully employed in the work of the Lord: it is then, and not till then, fully fitted for the Master's use.

God saves men to the uttermost, that they may here perfectly love him, and worthily magnify his name. To take them away the moment they are capable of doing this, would be, so far, to deprive the world and the Church of the manifestation of the glory of his grace. "But the text says, he immediately sendeth out the sickle; and this means that the person dies, and is taken into glory, as soon as he is fit for it."

1. That a preacher is a person employed by God, and sent out to sow the good seed of his kingdom in the souls of men.

2. That it is a sin against God to stay in the field and not sow.

3. That it is a sin to pretend to sow, when a man is not furnished by the keeper of the granary with any more seed.

4. That it is a high offence against God to change the Master's seed, to mix it, or to sow bad seed in the place of it.

5. That he is not a seeds-man of God who desires to sow by the way side, &, and not on the proper ground, i.e. he who loves to preach only to genteel congregations, to people of sense and fashion, and feels it a pain and a cross to labor among the poor and the ignorant.

6. That he who sows with a simple, upright heart, the seed of his Master, shall (though some may be unfruitful) see the seed take deep root; and, notwithstanding the unfaithfulness and sloth of many of his hearers, he shall doubtless come with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.

But will God in very deed dwell with men on the earth? Behold, heaven and the heaven of heavens cannot contain thee; how much less this house which I have built! 2Chronicles 6:18

No person who entertains just and exalted views of the spiritual nature of the Divine Being will suppose that he can raise a temple for the habitation of Deity, as a man builds a house for himself. Nearly as improper and inadmissible is the idea that a temple can contribute to enhance the glory of God, as a monument may be raised in honor of a great man.

Solomon described the true and proper use of the temple, when he entreated that the Lord would "hearken unto the supplications of His servant and His people Israel, which they should make towards this place."

In short, the grand purpose for which the temple was erected was precisely the same as that contemplated by churches--to afford the opportunity and means of public and social worship, according to God’s Word. Always we are to entreat the divine mercy and favor--to render thanks for past instances of goodness, and offer petitions for future blessings.

How faithfully our Lord dwells upon His covenant with us. It is sweet praying when we can plead the promises.

It hath pleased them verily; and their debtors they are. For if the Gentiles have been made partakers of their spiritual things, their duty is also to minister unto them in carnal things Romans 15:27

We are all debtors to the church no matter what race, and ought to be always doubly ready to give for the furtherance of the Gospel. To despise or think harshly of giving is very unbecoming for those who assert they adore "The King of the Kings."

If we are blessed by the power of the word through signs and wonders than we have immediate and long term benefit. As we ourselves labor to meet our own needs so are we given power by God to gain wealth through the word thus preached to us.

Have those who give themselves in the service of God done so that they and their family would hunger. Or that their need would weigh ever heavily on their heart. Or are these rare and chosen vessels to struggle with so little carnal means to continue to preach the gospel.

I tell you truthfully none who answer the call, do so because of the promise of gain, and would minister faithfully in pure obedience and love for God; if that were indeed all that was offered. But this is not reason to say they should continue to lack to prove their motivation of heart. The word declares they should in fact be given, a double portion of the mean income of the church.

We would say we want the gospel to reach the ends of the world yet the job requires so much more than words. God gives us opportunity to give in faithfulness. Give, prove God not men, and live in obedience to the scriptures.

For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power: Colossians 2:9,10

We have all things in Jesus, and want no religious rites. To all these we are dead and buried, our baptism teaches us that; and by faith we are risen from all dead formalities into a new spiritual life. This requires none of the ordinances of man to sustain it.

All that is necessary to secure your salvation, your prosperity, and your healing is to be found in the Lord Jesus. There is a completion, or a filling up, in him, so as to leave nothing wanting.

This is true in respect:
(1.) to the wisdom which is needful to guide us;
(2.) the atonement to be made for sin and sickness;
(3.) the merit by which a sinner can be justified; and
(4.) the grace which is needful to sustain us in the trials, and to aid us in the duties of life.

Therefore, there is no necessity, that we should look to the aid of philosophy, or human earthy wisdom, as if there was a defect in the teachings of the Savior. We are not to look to human strength, as if Jesus were unable to save us heal us or prosper us. We are not to look to the merits of the saints, as if those merits of our Redeemer were not sufficient to meet all our wants.

Behold, for peace I had great bitterness: but thou hast in love to my soul delivered it from the pit of corruption: for thou hast cast all my sins behind thy back. Isaiah 38:17

Literally it can be said He has transformed my bitterness into peace. What sinister curse tries to violently hurtle my heart to the winds, yet at the heart of hearts lies the perfect love of God. Though sin would demand a price to be paid my gentle Redeemer creates the miracle of life. He cast off the chains of death that I may forever be transformed.

This miracle of creation can not be quenched by fiery dart or hellish storm for great is the Promise of Peace. Nothing in this world can prevent my praise for indeed I am free. Free from darkness eternally lifted upward into the everlasting arms of light.

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. 1Corinthians 2:9

What reason and imagination could not have conceived, the Holy Spirit has revealed. Spiritual men and women of God have an inner eye and ear to which the Spirit grants discernment.

This is designed clearly to describe the blessedness of those who were admitted to the Divine favor. These elect have communion with God and God manifests himself as their Friend. That blessedness is said to be superior to all that men elsewhere enjoy. This closeness can be found nowhere else but in God through our Lord Jesus Christ.

This privileged view of wisdom, and fitness, and beauty, can be found in no other plan. It is true that this view is attended with a high degree of comfort; but the comfort is not the immediate thing in the eye of the apostle. He truly envisions a place where we have power from God that propels us forward into the conflict battling darkness with perfect confidence in the love which upholds us.

And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage. Heb 2:15

That he might be able to identify with the curse that holds all of us in the complete bondage of sin, to sickness poverty and eternal death, through his own resurrection and victory over the curse of death and sickness uplifts our downcast souls. He bears with our infirmities, Jesus himself became a man like ourselves.

Troubled hearts should think of this, and be of good cheer. The Holy Spirit speaks of him most sweetly here.

We once preferred life in any state, even with the most grievous evils, to death, because we had no hope beyond the grave.

In full assurance now the born again believer has God's love, and the fear of death sickness and poverty is removed. By the purification of our hearts through faith, the sting of death is extracted and we can now rest fully assured in the miraculous deliverance for all evil and bondage of the curse.

The people who know not God are in continual torment through the fear of death, and they fear death because they fear something beyond death. They are conscious to themselves that they are wicked, and they are afraid of God, and terrified at the thought of eternity.

By these fears thousands of sinful, miserable souls are prevented from hurrying themselves into the unknown world. They live their lives subject to whatever good or bad happens hiding their eyes for fear they see themselves as accursed and unwilling to believe this could be true. Better they say to live for today for in truth they know they have no tomorrow.

Not so with us dear believer for we fear nothing and challenge life to produce blessing! We fully reject the old bondage of sickness poverty and death. They have nothing in us who believe.

O LORD, thou art my God; I will exalt thee, I will praise thy name; for thou hast done wonderful things; thy counsels of old are faithfulness and truth. Isaiah 25:1

Christ's eyes are upon faithful persons, or faithful ministers of the word, who preach the Gospel faithfully. These administer the ordinances truly, and are faithful to the souls of men in watching over them, reproving and exhorting them.

His eyes are upon them to keep and preserve them, and to honour and reward them with a crown of life that fadeth not away. His eyes are also on faithful members of churches, such who truly believe in him, who hold fast the faithful word, and keep close to his worship

His eyes are upon them, to show favor to them, to bestow blessings upon them, and to protect and defend them, and to preserve them from perishing: So such as are faithful shall dwell with Christ both here and hereafter. They dwell in him and with him by faith, and have communion with him. They dwell in his house below, and shall dwell with him above for evermore

Truth breaks every yoke that would prevent us.

These two, faithfulness and truth, are sisters of our success in this life and the life to come.

That ye may with one mind and one mouth glorify God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 15:6

Among Christians there must be unity, and especially in Christian families, so that all our powers may be undividedly employed in praising God. If we are jealous one of another, or use angry language, and quarrelsome words, we cannot glorify God as we ought.

Thus the Savior sets his seal upon assemblies of the faithful, even of the smallest kind, not only in their acts of discipline, but in their intercessions. Note how tenderly Jesus speaks of his followers: "If two of you." Matthew 18:19. If two of you agree in prayer on earth, "my Father which is in heaven" will hearken to your pleading.

Prayer should be matter for previous consideration, and persons about to join in prayer should "agree as touching anything that they shall ask." We first search God’s word for the answer to our joint petition. Then we come together with an intelligent design, seeking a known blessing, and agreeing to combine our desires and our faith in reference to the one chosen object.

Two believers united in holy desire and solemn prayer will have great power with God. Instead of despising the verdict of so small a gathering, we ought to respect it, since the Father does so. Note the power of combined prayer and understand there is no excuse for giving up gathering in prayer while there are two praying people in the place. Two in one accord can prevail with God.

Of course, more is needed than a cold agreement as God’s word lays our certain things which are desirable. There must be importunity and faith. We desire to speak the same as God’s word and as we each gather at the throne faithfully and habitually calling upon God’s promise in the name of our Lord Jesus we do with certainty, receive such a request with great joy.

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

Do what we may, we can bring forth no truly good thing except in union with our Lord: our strength, our fruitfulness, yes, and our very life, all lie in Him.

Remain united to the our Lord Jesus by a living faith. Live a life of dependence on Him, and obey His doctrines, imitate His example, and constantly exercise faith in Him.

That is, if you remain attached to the Lord, He will remain with you, and will teach, guide, and comfort you. This he proceeds to illustrate by a reference to the vine. If the branch should be cut off an instant, it would die and be fruitless. As long as it is in the vine the parent stock imparts its sweet juices, and furnishes a constant circulation of fuel adapted for the growth and fruitfulness of the branch.

So our faithfulness, if we should be separate from Christ, or if we cease to feel our union to him and dependence on him, withers and droops. While we are united to him by a living faith, from the nature of the case, strength flows from him to us, and we receive help as we need. Devoutness then, manifested in good works and in love, is as natural, as easy, as unconstrained, and as lovely as the vine covered with fruitful branches is at once useful and enticing.

The churches of Asia salute you. Aquila and Priscilla salute you much in the Lord, with the church that is in their house. 1Corth. 16:19

Every Christian family should in some respects be a Christian church. In some cases (as, for instance, were they cast away on a deserted shore), they should be a church themselves.

Families that pray together stay together.

In our personal families we should live under the direction of Christian rules, and daily offer up Christian worship. Wherever two or three are gathered together, and Christ is among them, there is a church. We should conduct and encourage daily prayer together and separately. We should enjoy the study of God’s word. Strength comes through exercise and when we exercise our family ties they are not easily broken.

We lead our families to the altar as Joshua said “but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.” As the head of our families we stand accountable to god for how we offer ourselves to the Lord and we must never shirk the responsibility of bringing our family together with the saints to worship our God of mercy and grace.

Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons' sons; Deut. 4:9

Moses' last discourse to the people whom he had so lovingly ruled was simple. If the Lord has condescended to tenderly teach and train us, let us not be forgetful hearers, neither let us neglect to transmit his teachings to our children.

If a man knows the worth of his own soul, he will sense the importance of the salvation of his own family. Those who neglect family religion, neglect personal religion. If more attention were paid to the this simple yet profound service, we would soon have a better state of civil society. On family religion, God lays much stress and no head of a family can neglect it without endangering his future relationship with their own children.

We plant seeds of faith or seeds of discourse. When they mature we find comfort or we find a troubled heart.

And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints. Revelations 15:3

A song of thanksgiving and praise, such as Moses taught the Hebrew people to sing after their deliverance from Egyptian bondage. The meaning here is not that they would sing that identical song, but that Moses taught the people to celebrate their deliverance with a magnificent hymn of praise.

There is an obvious propriety here in referring to the "song of Moses," because the circumstances are very similar. The occasion of the redemption from that formidable Antichristian power here referred to had a strong resemblance to the rescue from Egyptian bondage. We too sing in honor of the Lamb, as our great deliverer thus exciting wonder and admiration of our hearts.

Our praise is celebrated in our Lord--the JEHOVAH--the uncreated and eternal One. He is God--the creator, upholder, and sovereign of all things; and that he is Almighty--having all power in all worlds.

It is the Lord--the Ruler of all worlds; it is God-- the Maker of the race, and the Father of the race, who performs the work of redemption. It is a work which could be accomplished only by one who is Almighty. Justice and truth are brought prominently into view also in the redemption of man. It is proper that these attributes should be celebrated in the songs of praise in heaven.

2/06

TOP

When the poor and needy seek water, and there is none, and their tongue faileth for thirst, I the LORD will hear them, I the God of Israel will not forsake them. Isaiah 41:17

To strengthen our faith in this promise, God bids us to look back upon the Lord's wonders of old and to expect yet greater things, for God has not changed, nor are the fountains of his power and grace exhausted.

Seasons of deep distress have often been to God's people the dawn of a bright and glorious day. We believers have thus withdrawn from every worldly confidence, and are continually led to seek deliverance from God by deep repentance and earnest supplication.

Water is figuratively refreshment and, prosperity after their affliction. The language is so constructed to be fully realized in the waters of life and of the Spirit, under the Gospel. We believe the power, God has entrusted us with, by and in His Spirit so that all needs may find cure. We with full assurance of faith draw near to our dear Lord that we may drink deeply of the elixir of life health, and wealth, fully realizing complete deliverance in every circumstance of life.

We do praise our God for His perfect care equally of the smallest to the largest of all trials.

But ye shall be named the Priests of the LORD: men shall call you the Ministers of our God: ye shall eat the riches of the Gentiles, and in their glory shall ye boast yourselves. Isaiah 61:6

The opening words of this chapter were quoted by our Lord Jesus as his credentials, when he stood up to read in the synagogue of Nazareth. The description which is here given is applicable to Jesus, and in him every word is verified.

The whole Trinity unite in the work of grace. Jehovah the Father--the Lord God, anoints his Son to his glad office; the Spirit rests upon him; and the Son himself performs divine acts. This glorious gospel of the sacred Trinity is not for the proud and boastful, but for mourners and those who are in heaviness for sin.

If we belong to that class, Jesus has come to bless us. Yet we too walk in this most wonderful calling in our Lord Jesus. We to find such incomprehensible blessing for our labors of love.

Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. There is none other commandment greater than these. Mark 12:31

Now, as we are not to love ourselves supremely, this is virtually a command, in the first place, not to love our neighbor with all our heart and soul and mind and strength. And thus it is a condemnation of the idolatry of the creature. Our supreme and uttermost affection is to be reserved for God.

As sincerely as ourselves we are to love all mankind, and with the same readiness to do and suffer for them as we should reasonably desire them to show to us. The golden rule is our best interpreter of the nature and extent of these claims.

"On these two commandments hang all the law and the prophets" It is as if He had said, "This is all Scripture in a nutshell. The whole law of human duty in a portable, pocket form.

" Indeed, it is so simple that a child may understand it, so brief that all may remember it, so comprehensive as to embrace all possible cases. From its very nature it is unchangeable. It is inconceivable that God should require from his rational creatures anything less, or in substance anything else, under any dispensation, in any world, at any period throughout eternal duration.

He cannot but claim this--all this--alike in heaven, in earth, and in hell! And this incomparable summary of the divine law belonged to the Jewish religion! As it shines in its own self-evidencing splendor, so it reveals its own true source. The religion from which the world has received it could be none other than a God-given religion!

And I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them. Isaiah 42:16

In the midst of judgment, mercy and truth shall not be forgotten; God's chosen shall be led safely, and their afflictions shall be removed.

Especially precious are the last words, "and not forsake them." Why are we sorrowful? for God is our friend still. Never has he deserted a sincerely believing heart, and he never will, come what may. Let us, then, rest in his love, and go forward to our life's end with triumphant courage.

Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord. Exodus 14:13

These words contain God's command to the believer when he is reduced to great straits and brought into extraordinary difficulties. He cannot retreat; he cannot go forward; he is shut up on the right hand and on the left; what is he now to do?

The Master's word to him is, "Stand still." It will be well for him if at such times he listens only to his Master's word, for other and evil advisers come with their suggestions.

Despair whispers, "Lie down and die; give it all up." But God would have us put on a cheerful courage, and even in our worst times, rejoice in His love and faithfulness.

Cowardice says, "Retreat; go back to the world's way of action; you cannot play the Christian's part, it is too difficult. Relinquish your principles."

But, however much Satan may urge this course upon you, you cannot follow it if you are a child of God. His divine decree has beseeched us go from strength to strength, and so we shall, and neither death nor hell shall turn us from our Lord’s course. What, if for a while we are called to stand still, yet this is but to renew our strength for some greater advance in due time.

Impetuosity cries, "do something. Stir yourself; to stand still and wait, is sheer idleness." We must be doing something at once--we must do it so we think--instead of looking to the Lord, who will not only do something but will do everything.

Presumption boasts, "If the sea be before you, march into it and expect a miracle."

But Faith listens neither to Presumption, nor to Despair, nor to Cowardice, nor to Precipitancy, but it hears God say, "Stand still," and immovable as a rock it stands.

"Stand still";--keep the posture of an upright man, ready for action, expecting further orders, cheerfully and patiently awaiting the directing voice; and it will not be long before God shall say to you, as distinctly as Moses said it to the people of Israel, "Go forward."

He expounded unto them in all the Scriptures the things concerning himself. Luke 24:27

The two disciples on the road to Emmaus had a most profitable journey. Their companion and teacher was the best of tutors; the interpreter one of a thousand, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. The Lord Jesus humbled himself to become a preacher of the gospel, and He was not ashamed to exercise His calling before an audience of two persons, neither does He now refuse to become the teacher of even one. Let us woo the company of so excellent an Instructor, for till He is made unto us wisdom we shall never be wise unto salvation.

This unrivalled tutor used as His curriculum the best of books. Although able to reveal fresh truth, He preferred to expound the old. He knew by His omniscience what was the most instructive way of teaching, and by turning at once to Moses and the prophets, He showed us that the surest road to wisdom is not speculation, reasoning, or reading human books, but meditation upon the Word of God. The most expeditious way to be spiritually rich in heavenly knowledge is to dig in this mine of diamonds, to gather pearls from this heavenly sea. When Jesus Himself sought to enrich others, He searched deep in the quarry of the Holy Scripture.

The favored pair were led to consider the best of subjects, for Jesus spoke of Jesus, and expounded the things concerning Himself. Here the diamond cut the diamond, and what could be more admirable?

The Master of the House unlocked His own doors, conducted the guests to His table, and placed His own well planned meal upon it. He who hid the treasure in the field Himself guided the searchers to it.

With an eye to find our Savior we should always search the Word. The grace to study the Bible with Jesus as both our teacher and our lesson is born of faith!

O God, my heart is fixed; I will sing and give praise, even with my glory. Psalm 108:1

We cannot find it in our heart to dismiss this psalm by merely referring the reader to Ps 57:7-11 and Ps 60:5-12, though these two Scriptures are almost identical with this verses. It is true that most of the commentators have done so, and we are not so presumptuous as to dispute their wisdom; but we must believe that the words would not have been repeated if there had not been an object for so doing, or can one think that we had that before, and therefore we need not meditate upon it again.

The Holy Spirit is not so short of expressions that he needs to repeat himself, and the repetition cannot be meant merely to fill the book: there must be some intention in the arrangement of two former divine utterances in a new connection. We at least endeavor to try to discover the intent, and we may expect divine assistance in guiding us.

We have before us The Warrior's Morning Song, with which he adores his God and strengthens his heart before entering upon the conflicts of the day. David appeals to his God and sets up his banner in Jehovah's name.

First we have an utterance dictated by the spirit of praise, Ps 108:1-5; then a second deliverance evoked by the spirit of believing prayer, Ps 108:6-12; and then a final word of resolve (Ps 108:13), as the warrior hears the war trumpet summoning him to join the conflict immediately, and therefore marches with his friend and family soldiers at once to the battle.

That ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ; Philippians 1:10

That ye may approve things, "Or, try." The word used here denotes the kind of trial to which metals are exposed in order to test their nature; and the sense is that the apostle wished them so to try the things that were of real value, as to discern that which was true and genuine.

That are excellent "or, differ." The idea is, that he wished them to be able to distinguish between things that differed from each other. To have an intelligent apprehension of what was superior. He would not have them love and approve all things indiscriminately. They should be esteemed according to their real value. How anxious the apostle was, not only that they should be Christians, but that they should be intelligent Christians, and should understand the real worth and value of objects.

Sincere. is rendered pure. The word properly means, that which is judged of in sunshine, which is clear and manifest. It is that over which there are no clouds; which is not doubtful and dark; which is pure and bright. The word sincere means literally without wax that is, honey which is pure and transparent.

Applied to Christian character, it means that which is not deceitful, ambiguous, hypocritical. It is that which is not mingled with error, worldliness, and sin. It is also that which does not proceed from selfish and interested motives, and where there is nothing disguised. There is no more desirable character trait than that you are a sincere friend, benefactor, Christian.

(1.) he is truly converted--that he has not assumed Christianity as a mask;

(2.) his motives axe disinterested and pure;

(3.) his conduct is free from double-dealing, trick, and cunning;

(4.) he is true to his word, and faithful to his promises;

(6.) he is always what he professes to be.

A sincere Christian would bear to have the light let in upon him always; to have the emotions of his heart seen; to be scanned everywhere, and at all times, by men, by angels, and by God and inoffensive to others

For I know that this shall turn to my salvation through your prayer, and the supply of the Spirit of Jesus Christ, 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, whether it be by life, or by death. Philippians 1:19,20

He hoped that the spread of the gospel would call Nero's attention to his case, and end his imprisonment one way or another, and little did he care whether he was set free by death, or by being allowed to resume his labors.

He had the most confident expectation that God would stand by him, so that he should be enabled, with the utmost liberty of speech, to testify the Gospel of the grace of God.

Christ shall be magnified-his person, nature, doctrine, and shown to be, what He really is, most noble, most excellent, most necessary, and most glorious.

Wherever we stand today abiding in this most noble of causes we continue to believe. Peace is not measured in the believer by his outward circumstance. Strength is not measured in physical ability. For our salvation is wrought in our present weakness. Our Joy cannot be stolen but is in fact elevated by the challenge as the Spirit of our God reigns big in our heart.

And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the LORD. Psalm 40:3

At the Passover, before his passion, our Lord sang one of the grand old Psalms of praise; but what is the music of his heart now, in the midst of his redeemed! What a song is that in which his glad heart forever leads the chorus of the elect! Neither Miriam’s tambourine nor Moses' triumphant can for a moment rival that ever new and exulting song.

Justice magnified and grace victorious; hell subdued and heaven glorified; death destroyed and immortality established; sin overthrown and righteousness magnificent. What a theme for a hymn in that day when our Lord drank the red wine new with us all in our heavenly Father's kingdom!

Even on earth, and before his great passion, he foresaw the joy which was set before him, and was sustained by the prospect. Our God. The God of Jesus, the God of Israel, "my God and your God." How will we praise him!

Jesus will be the chief player on our stringed instruments; he will lead the solemn hallelujah which shall go up from the host redeemed by blood. Many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the Lord. A multitude that no man can number shall see the griefs and triumphs of Jesus, shall tremble because of their sinful rejection of him, and then through grace shall receive faith and become trusters in Lord Jehovah.

Here is our Lord's reward. Here is the assurance which makes preachers bold and workers tenacious. We are all one among the many? Note the way of salvation, a sight, a fear, a trust! Do you know what these mean by possessing and practicing them in your own soul? Trusting in the Lord is the evidence, no, the essence of salvation. He who is a true believer is evidently redeemed from the dominion of sin, curse and Satan.

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength: Isaiah 26:3,4

Shalom, shalom, "peace, peace," or better yet peace upon peace-all kinds of prosperity-happiness in this world and in the world to come.

Happy are those who are protected and kept in peace by their Omnipotent God. Is there one in our house who does not trust in the Lord? Let us pray that all our minds may be stayed on God.

The rock of ages;" or, according to Rab. Maimon,-the eternal Fountain, Source, or Spring. This refers to the lasting streams from the rock in the desert. And that rock was Christ. Our hoped is in the Lord for the everlasting promises.

3/06

TOP

Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me. Ruth 1:17

Thus Ruth joined the Lord's people, and she never regretted it. Those who cast in their lot with Jesus may have to rough it for awhile; but a more than fair portion surely lies before them.

Naomi had been absent ten years, but her character in her better days had stood very high with the people. They were therefore glad to see her return, though they wondered at her poverty. Her many griefs may have so altered her that even her former acquaintances asked, "Is this Naomi?"

Such changes may come to us: May faith and patience prepare us for them that we remain honored yet for our faith walk that sets the image of our life far above changing circumstances.

And the LORD said unto Gideon, The people are yet too many; bring them down unto the water, and I will try them for thee there: and it shall be, that of whom I say unto thee, This shall go with thee, the same shall go with thee; and of whomsoever I say unto thee, This shall not go with thee, the same shall not go. Judges 7:4

This was a great trial for Gideon's faith. If weak in some points, it was mighty in others. The lappers were men in a hurry for action, full of passion for the war. These were men who could not rest till they had ruined their cruel oppressors. The Lord will work with such men who are eager for victory.

The swordsmen melted away, and only a few trumpeters remained. Now the matters were right for conflict, and ripe for victory. When we are weak, then we are strong. Stripped of all such strength as can be seen, we cast ourselves upon the power invisible.

God blesses and gives signs and assurances which it might be sinful for others to desire. How gently the Lord deals with his servant. He assures him that there is no room for fear, but lest a fear should remain, He removes it. Because Gideon had so many tokens, we are by no means to expect them, but rather to remember that blessed are they who have not seen and yet have believed.

And it came to pass, when they were gone over, that Elijah said unto Elisha, Ask what I shall do for thee, before I be taken away from thee. And Elisha said, I pray thee, let a double portion of thy spirit be upon me. 2Kings 2:9

What did Elijah’s Lord find him doing when he came? He was talking with Elisha, instructing and encouraging him, directing him in his work, and quickening him to it, for the good of those whom he left behind. He was not meditating nor praying, as one wholly taken up with the world he was going to, but engaged in edifying discourse, as one concerned about the kingdom of God among men.

We make a mistake if we think our preparation for heaven is carried on only by contemplation and the acts of devotion. Usefulness to others will pass as well in our account as any thing. Thinking of divine things is good, but talking of them (if it come from the heart) is better, because it edifies.

Christ ascended as he was blessing his disciples.

And some days after Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do. Acts 15:36

An active spirit will not be at rest long. Love to Jesus sets a man at work for his cause, and leads him to stir up others, as Paul did Barnabas.

Let us not presently begin new work, nor break up new ground; but let us take a view of the fields we have sown. Come, and let us get up early to the vineyards, let us see if the vine flourish, Song 7:12. Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord.

What a pleasant task to visit again the fruit nearly mature. What a pleasure of the heart to renew acquaintance once more. What quality life could be lost to never touch a friend in Jesus.

How are the mighty fallen, and the weapons of war perished! 2Samuel 1:27

Dr. Krummacher, in his "David, the King of Israel," has the following excellent passage,

"David did not in his lamentation speak too highly in praise of the King. Was not Saul truly a valiant hero? Did not also that which was gentle and tender oftentimes find an echo in his soul? Did not Jonathan and his other sons show themselves towards him true and faithful children even unto death?

All this at that time hovered before the mind of David. With such recollections as these there was associated a deep, sorrowful compassion for the sad fate of the king. And thus it was David's genuine feeling and sentiment to which he gave full outspoken expression in his lamentation for the dead.

These words of the song--'Tell it not in Gath, publish it not in the streets of Askelon,' have, since that time, become a proverb in the circles of the faithful. It is frequently heard when one of their community has failed to take heed to his ways, and, therefore, has given rise to a scandal.

Would that the call were more faithfully observed than is usually the case! Would that the honor of the spiritual Zion lay always as near to the heart of the children of the kingdom as did that of the earthly to the heart of David!

But how often does it happen that they even strive to disclose before the world the weakness of their brethren, and thus, by a repetition of the wickedness of Ham, become traitors to the Church which Christ has purchased with his own blood.

They make themselves guilty of bringing dishonor upon the gospel, by opening the gates to such reproach through their talebearing, and to their own great prejudice they disown the charity which 'believeth all things and hopeth all things.'"

Therefore now go, lead the people unto the place of which I have spoken unto thee: behold, mine Angel shall go before thee: nevertheless in the day when I visit I will visit their sin upon them. Exodus 32:34

The Lord refused to be personally present with the tribes, but graciously promised to direct them by an angelic deputy. This was a sad threatening for Moses, who knew the value of the divine presence; and to the people themselves it was grievous news, especially the sentence that the Lord would visit them for their sin.

Verse 32 is reference to Moses' answered prayer in showing mercy to him, while the people suffered under the hand of justice. But the promise of God did not fail, for although those who sinned were blotted out of the book, yet their posterity enjoyed the inheritance. Yet Moses and this people he loved so greatly did not enter the promised land

What a heart, the lover of God shows toward God and yet cannot leave out even the most repulsive of sinners. Such a challenge to us to remain still in circumstances of difficulty or suffering ourselves as to not leave one behind. What can I gain for self if part of my love’s expression is not present.

Husbands love your wives. Wives love your husbands. Parents love your children. Children love your parents. Let love’s heart guide us in our acts of love one to another.

For the cloud of the LORD was upon the tabernacle by day, and fire was on it by night, in the sight of all the house of Israel, throughout all their journeys. Exodus 40:38

This daily and nightly appearance was at once both a merciful gift, and a demonstrative proof of the Divinity of their faith. These tokens continued with them throughout all their journeys. Notwithstanding their frequently repeated disobediences and rebellions, God never withdrew these tokens of his presence from them, till they were brought into the promised land at journey’s end.

Every thing that concerned them was under the direction and management of God. But all these things typified the presence and influence of God in his Church, and in the hearts of his followers. His Church can possess no sanctifying knowledge, no quickening power but from the presence and influence of his Spirit.

By this influence all his followers are taught, enlightened, led, quickened, purified, and built up on their most holy faith; and without the indwelling and the empowering of his Spirit, light, life, salvation, and ministry are impossible. These Divine influences are necessary, not only for a time, but through all our journeys.

Through ever altering scenes of change, and through every step in life we believers are yet led. The followers of Christ are to possess, not by inference or inductive reasoning, but consciously, a real and active presence. The influence is to be felt, and the fruits and gifts of it to appear as fully as the cloud of the Lord by day, and the fire by night, appeared in the sight of all the house of Israel.

Have you this Spirit? Are all your goings and comings ordered by its continual guidance? Does Christ, in whom dwelt all the fullness of the Godhead bodily, dwell in thy heart by faith? If not, call upon God for that blessing which, for the sake of his Son, he is ever disposed to impart; then you will be live gloriously, and on all your glory there shall be a defense.

And there were four leprous men at the entering in of the gate: and they said one to another, Why sit we here until we die? If we say, We will enter into the city, then the famine is in the city, and we shall die there: and if we sit still here, we die also. Now therefore come, and let us fall unto the host of the Syrians: if they save us alive, we shall live; and if they kill us, we shall but die. And they rose up in the twilight, to go unto the camp of the Syrians: and when they were come to the uttermost part of the camp of Syria, behold, there was no man there. 2Kings 7:3-5

How these lepers reasoned themselves into a resolution to make a visit in the night to the camp of the Syrians, should they go should they sit still. They determined to go over to the enemy, and throw themselves upon their mercy. Better die by the sword than by famine, one death than a thousand.

Common sense will often lead us to a method which may better our condition, but need not make it worse.

According to this resolution, they went, in the beginning of the night, to the camp of the Syrians, and, to their great surprise, found it wholly deserted, not a man to be seen or heard in it.

God ordered it, that these lepers came as soon as the Syrians had fled, for they fled in the twilight, the evening twilight, and in the twilight the lepers came, and so no time was lost.

They again reasoned themselves into a resolution to bring tidings of this to the city. They feasted in the first tent they came to and then began to think of enriching themselves with the plunder; but they corrected themselves

"We do not well to conceal these good tidings from the community we are members of, under color of being avenged upon them for excluding us from their society; it was the law that did it, not they, and therefore let us bring them the news. Though we awake them from sleep, it will be life from the dead to them."

Their own consciences told them mischief would befall them if they sought for themselves only. Selfish narrow-spirited people cannot expect to prosper; the most comfortable advantage is that which we share with our brethren.

For they all made us afraid, saying, Their hands shall be weakened from the work, that it be not done. Now therefore, O God, strengthen my hands. Nehemiah 6:9

How much debt is required in prayer to find help in time of need. Here is a good prayer, when we are entering on any particular services or conflicts in our Christian warfare.

God sets himself at a distance from those that set him at defiance. The wicked say to the Almighty, Depart from us, and He is, accordingly, far from them. He does not manifest himself to them, has no communion with them, will not hear them, will not help them, no, not in the time of their need. They shall be for ever banished from his presence and he will behold them afar off.

Our heavenly Father will draw nigh to those in a way of mercy who draw nigh to him in a way of duty. He hears the prayer of the righteous, accepts it, is well pleased with it, and will grant an answer of peace to it. It is the prayer of a righteous man that avails much, James 5:16. He is nigh to them, a present help, in all that they call upon him for.

"Like an eagle that stirs up its nest, That hovers over its young, He spread His wings and caught them, He carried them on His pinions. De 32:11

The mother Eagle flutters over her brood to excite them to fly; or, as some think, disturbs her nest to oblige the young ones to leave it. So God by His strong hand in Egypt obliged the Israelites, otherwise very reluctant, to leave a place which he appeared by his judgments to have devoted to destruction.

She broods over them, communicating to them a portion of her own vital warmth: so did God, by the influences of his Spirit, enlighten, encourage, and strengthen their minds.

Then, she spreads abroad her wings in order, not only to teach them how to fly, but to bear them when weary. For to this fact there seems the inference, it being generally believed that the eagle, through extraordinary affection for her young, takes them upon her back when they are weary of flying.

How God by His Spirit continues His care and protection of us today. Though always is there to uphold us He knows we must learn to fly on our own and develop the strength for protection and guidance of those we love in kind.

Who executes justice for the oppressed; Who gives food to the hungry. The LORD sets the prisoners free. Psalm 146:7

The People's Rights!
There are three rights of humanity.

Justice
He is swift and impartial administrator of justice. Our King pays no deference to rank or wealth, and is never the respecter of persons. He is the friend of the down trodden, the avenger of the persecuted, the champion of the helpless. Safely may we trust our cause with our faith
Bread
He dost dispenses bounty! All food comes from God; but when we are reduced to hunger, and providence supplies our necessity, we are peculiarly struck with the fact. Let every hungry man lay hold on this statement, and plead it before the mercy seat, whether he suffer bodily hunger, or heart hunger. Our God finds his special loved ones among the lowest of mankind: the oppressed and the starving find.
Freedom
Thus he completes the triple blessing: Our Lord does not love to see men pining in dungeons, or fretting in fetters: he brought up Joseph from the round house, and Israel from the house of bondage. Jesus is the Emancipator, spiritually, advantageously, and nationally. As faith in Jehovah shall become common among men freedom will advance in every form, especially will mental, moral, and spiritual bonds be loosed, and the slaves of error, sin, and death shall be set free. Well might the Psalmist praise Our Lord Jesus, who is so kind to men in bonds! Well may the freed ones be loudest in the song!

Jehovah is King, and His kingdom can never come to an end. Neither does he die, nor abdicate, nor lose His crown by force. Glory be to His name, His throne is never in jeopardy. As the Lord ever lives, so he ever reigns.

I thank my God always concerning you for the grace of God which was given you in Christ Jesus, 1Corinthians 1:4

It is always well to acknowledge and commend all the good which we see in our brethren, even though we may discern there is much to mourn over. They will all the more readily receive our reproofs, if we are just enough to admit and admire their nobilities.

Notice their various spiritual gifts which they have received, as specified in the succeeding verses.

A minister, or a parent, may frequently do better to inspire by judicious commendation as by reproof, and much more than by faultfinding and harsh crimination.

Therefore now let it please thee to bless the house of thy servant, that it may continue for ever before thee: for thou, O Lord GOD, hast spoken it: and with thy blessing let the house of thy servant be blessed for ever.
2 Samuel 7:29

Then I said, "Alas, Lord GOD! Behold, I do not know how to speak, Because I am a youth." But the LORD said to me, "Do not say, 'I am a youth,' Because everywhere I send you, you shall go, And all that I command you, you shall speak. Jeremiah 1:6, 7

It is interesting to note that other eminent prophets besides Moses have shrunk at first from their commission. Jeremiah was wholly inexperienced, as a child, utterly incapable of conceiving rightly enough, or even of having the ability to care for himself i.e. his own clothing, food, and shelter.

Those who are in fact called of God to the sacred ministry are such as have been brought to a deep acquaintance with themselves, feel their own ignorance, and know their own weakness. They know also the awful responsibility that attaches to the work; and nothing but the authority of God can induce such to undertake it. They whom God never called run, because of the need for worldly honor and personal comfort.

A few hear the call with fear and trembling, and can go only in the strength of Jehovah. God would comfort the honest of heart, “It is my words and message, not your own, that you shall deliver. I shall teach you; therefore, your youth and inexperience can be no hindrance.

Do not say the obvious for it is obvious you are but a frail, feeble human. But say what God would have you say. Speak in faith knowing full well God will finish what he has commanded you speak.

See how great a love the Father has bestowed on us, that we would be called children of God; and such we are. For this reason the world does not know us, because it did not know Him. 1John 3:1

Fellowship with Jesus and joy lie ever so closely together, that the apostle could aim at both at the same time. Yet we had neither claim nor merit that we should be called, that is made, the sons of God, who were before children of the wicked one; therefore, the love which brought us from such a depth of misery must appear the more extraordinary and impressive.

What love, in kind and in degree. In kind the most tender and the most elevating and dignifying, as He adopted us into his family, and permitted us to address him as our Father. In degree the most exalted, since there is no higher love that can be shown than in adopting a poor and friendless orphan, and giving him a parent and a home. Even God could bestow upon us no more valuable token of affection than that we should be called His children, and permitted to regard him as our Father.

Our Father’s love admitted us who believe to the same privileges, power, and honors as all members of His heavenly family; such honor God has bestowed on us! Such joy that we should enjoy these great pleasures.

4/06

TOP

ohn 12:13 Took branches of palm trees, and went forth to meet him, and cried, Hosanna: Blessed is the King of Israel that cometh in the name of the Lord.

Psalm 118:24-26 This is the day which the LORD hath made; we will rejoice and be glad in it. Save now, I beseech thee, O LORD: O LORD, I beseech thee, send now prosperity. Blessed be he that cometh in the name of the LORD: we have blessed you out of the house of the LORD.

These words, “Hosanna” and “cometh in the name of the Lord” were sung by the Jews on the feast of tabernacles, when carrying green branches in their hands; and proclaiming Hosanna. This was sung by the Jewish children when Christ made his public entry into Jerusalem.

When persons applied to the king for help, or to rectify their grievances, they used the word hosanna, or rather from the Hebrew HOSHIAH NA! Save now! remedy our grievances, prosper us, and give us help from oppression! Thus, both the words and actions of the people prove that they acknowledged Christ as their king, and looked to him for deliverance. He who comes in the name and authority of the Most High.

Let the utmost degrees of hosanna, of salvation, and deliverance, of prosperity be communicated to your people!

GREAT HOSANNA! Assist us who believe in this time of forgiveness and resurrection power with the greatest liberation. On this day, deliver us with all speed and powerful help against our enemies, and likewise deliver to us a prosperous and fruitful time of blessing without measure, both spiritual and physical.

Ye know that after two days is the feast of the passover, and the Son of man is betrayed to be crucified. Matthew 26:2

Passover was a feast instituted in Egypt, to commemorate the destroying angel's passing over the houses of the Israelites, when he slew the firstborn of the Egyptians. This feast began on the fourteenth day of the first moon, in the first month, Nisan, and it lasted only one day; but it was immediately followed by the days of unleavened bread, which were seven, so that the whole lasted eight days, and all the eight days are sometimes called the feast of the Passover, and sometimes the feast or days of unleavened bread.

God appointed that on the night wherein they were to go out of Egypt they should, in each of their families, kill a lamb. The lamb was to be readied four days before and that afternoon they were to kill it as a sacrifice; not strictly, for it was not offered upon the altar, but as a religious ceremony, acknowledging God's goodness to them, not only in preserving them from, but in delivering them by, the plagues inflicted on the Egyptians. Their doorpost were to be painted with the blood of this lamb so that the angel of death would passover this home. The angel of death took the first born of every home without the blood of the lamb.

Jesus was betrayed, (rather delivered up,) to be crucified this same night. The first born of God was delivered into the hands of the dispensers of death. With amazing calmness and precision, our blessed Lord speaks of this awful event! What a proof he gives of his insight in so correctly predicting it; and of his love in so cheerfully undergoing it!

Having instructed his disciples and the Jews by his discourses, edified them by his example, convinced them by his miracles, he now prepares to redeem them by his blood!

And said unto him, Hearest thou what these say? And Jesus saith unto them, Yea; have ye never read, Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings thou hast perfected praise? Matthew 21:16

The eighth Psalm, out of which these words are quoted “2. Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou ordained strength because of thine enemies, that thou mightest still the enemy and the avenger.”

It was a common thing among the Jews for the children to be employed in public acclamations; and thus they were accustomed to hail their celebrated rabbis. This shouting of the children was therefore no strange thing in the land: only they were exasperated, because a person was celebrated against whom they had a rooted hatred. They did not regard the prophecy that foretold this.

He who delights in the songs of angels is pleased to honor himself in the eyes of his enemies by the praises of little children. Yet we also remember David in particular, who being but a ruddy youth was used of God as an instrument to still Goliath of Gath.

Jesus said "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." So, when under the heavenly influences of grace the tide of love rises, and goes swelling over our duties and difficulties, a child can do a man's work, and a man can do a giant's.

How great this power given unto us so we may find no excuse. How responsible we become to rightly use this power to end the fowl taste of sickness, poverty, sin, and death. Power to still the enemy and the avenger!

explaining and giving evidence that the Christ had to suffer and rise again from the dead, and saying, "This Jesus whom I am proclaiming to you is the Christ." Acts 17:3

The apostle's custom was to reason from the Scriptures, and surely there is no weapon so powerful as that which is taken from the armory of inspiration.

He collected the scriptures that spoke of the Messiah. He applied these to Jesus Christ, showing that in him all these scriptures were fulfilled, and that he was the Savior whom they expected. He showed also that the Christ, or Messiah, must needs suffer-that this was predicted, and was an essential mark of the true Messiah.

By proving this point, he corrected their false notion of a triumphant Messiah, and thus removed the scandal of the cross. His miracles proved that he was the Messiah, for he professed to be, and God would not work a miracle to confirm the claims of an impostor. For the same reason, his resurrection from the dead proved that he was the Messiah

Victorious indeed! For he conquered death and the grave!

Now if Christ is preached, that He has been raised from the dead, how do some among you say that there is no resurrection of the dead? But if there is no resurrection of the dead, not even Christ has been raised; and if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is vain, your faith also is vain. 1Corinthians 15:12-14

Christianity stands or falls with the resurrection of its founder. No man can be a Christian and doubt the resurrection of the Lord. If that resurrection had not happened, the whole matter would have been proved an false. If after all there is no resurrection, then the apostles suffered for nothing, they were wretched dupes, and having higher expectations than others their disappointment was proportionately bitter.

By Adam's sin all who are in him die, and by Christ's righteousness, all who are in him shall be made alive. There are two great covenant headships: the first was Adam's headship under the covenant of works, by which we have fallen, and the second is the headship of the Lord Jesus under the covenant of grace, by which we rise to eternal life.

According to the promise, Psalm 110:1: "The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou at my right hand, until I make thine enemies thy footstool." Therefore the kingdom cannot be given up till all rule and government be cast down. So that while the world lasts, Jesus, as the Messiah and Mediator, must reign; and all human beings are properly his subjects, are under his government, and are accountable to him.

Praise God for a government who upholds integrity and truth. Never wondering from this high calling and forever establishing us who believe.

"She has done what she could; she has anointed My body beforehand for the burial. "Truly I say to you, wherever the gospel is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will also be spoken of in memory of her." Mark 14:8, 9

She has done what she could. She has showed the highest affection in her power; and it was, as it is now, a sufficient argument against there being any real waste, that it was done for the honor of Christ.

The objections came from none of the true-hearted Eleven--as we learn from John (John 12:4): "Then saith one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon's son, which should betray Him." Doubtless the thought stirred first in his breast, and issued from his base lips; and some of the rest, ignorant of his true character and feelings, and carried away by his plausible speech, might for the moment feel some annoyance at the apparent waste.

How much will history remember our acts of love? Do we waste time, energy, or material possession when we offer ourselves to worship at the feet of Jesus? Prophecy will be fulfilled whether we are applied or not. How often are we invited yet how often do we halt fearing the world’s reprisal upon us?

Behold once more here the majesty of Jesus’ royal judicial supremacy in the government of the world, in this, 'Verily I say unto you,” and this finishes the matter.

The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid; for I know that you are looking for Jesus who has been crucified. "He is not here, for He has risen, just as He said. Come, see the place where He was lying. "Go quickly and tell His disciples that He has risen from the dead; and behold, He is going ahead of you into Galilee, there you will see Him; behold, I have told you." Matthew 28:5- 7

Jesus always keeps his word: “He is risen, as he said.” He said he would rise from the dead, and he did; he says that his people also shall rise, and they shall. “Come, see the place where the Lord lay. And go quickly,” the angel would not let the women stay long looking into the sepulcher, for there was work for them to do.

In this world, we cannot afford to spend all our time in contemplation, however heavenly it may be. Notice the angel’s words: first “See,” and then “Go.” Make sure about the fact for yourselves, and then let others know of it. What you know, tell; and do it “quickly.” Swift to your feet; such good news as you have to carry should not be long on the road.
“The King’s business required haste.”

“Tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him.” Matthew wrote THE GOSPEL OF THE KINGDOM, yet in his writings, there is much about that despised region called “Galilee of the Gentiles”, that borderland which touches us as well as the chosen seed of Abraham. There, in Galilee, is the place where Jesus will hold the first general assembly of his church after his resurrection.

The Lord our God hath shewed us His glory. Deuteronomy 5:24

God's great design in all His works is the manifestation of His own glory. Any aim less than this would be unworthy of Himself. But how shall the glory of God be manifested to such fallen creatures as we are? Man's eye is not single, he has ever a side glance towards his own honor, has too high an estimate of his own powers, and so is not qualified to behold the glory of the Lord.

It is clear, then, that self must stand out of the way, so that there may be room for God to be exalted; and this is the reason why often why we find ourselves in straits and difficulties. We then through this challenge are made conscious of our own folly and weakness, thus we may be fitted to behold the majesty of God when He comes forth to work our deliverance. Not that God sent the trial but that He attends our trials with us.

He whose life is an even and smooth path, will see little of the glory of the Lord, for he has few occasions of self-emptying, and hence, only a little fitness for being filled with the revelation of God. They who navigate little streams and shallow creeks, know only a little of the life of tempests; but they who "do business in great waters," see His "wonders in the deep." Among the huge oceanic waves of mourning, poverty, temptation, distress, and reproach, we learn the power of Jehovah, because we feel the littleness of man. Thank God, then, if you have found a rough road: it is this which has given you your experience in using God's greatness of power and the clarity of His loving kindness.

Your troubles have enriched you with a wealth of knowledge gained by no other means: your trials have been the cleft of the rock in which Jehovah has set you, as He did His servant Moses, that you might behold His glory as it passed by.

Praise God that you have not been left to the darkness and ignorance, but that in the great fight of affliction, you have been empowered for the outshinings of His glory in His wonderful dealings with you as He gives you the victory born of the strength of perseverance.

We dwell in Him. 1 John 4:13

Do you want a house for your soul? Do you ask, "What is the purchase price?" It is something less than proud human nature will likely give you. It is without money and without price.

Ah! But you would like to pay a respectable rent! You would love to do something to win Christ?

Then you cannot have the house! for it is "without price."

Will you take my Master's house on a lease for all eternity, with nothing to pay for it, nothing but the rent of loving and serving Him forever? Will you take Jesus and "dwell in Him?" See, that this house is furnished with all you want, it is filled with riches more than you will spend as long as you live. Here you can have intimate communion with the Lord Jesus Christ and feast on His love; here are tables well-kept with food for you to live on for ever; in it, when weary, you can find rest with Jesus; and from it you can look out and see the glory of heaven itself.

Will you have the house? But if you are houseless, you may say, "I should like to have the house; but may I have it?"

Yes; there is the key--the key is, "Come to Jesus."

"But," you say, "I am too tattered and worn for such a house." Never mind; there are garments inside. If you feel guilty and condemned, come; and though the house is too good for you, Jesus will make you good enough for the house. He will wash you and cleanse you, and you will yet be able to sing, "We dwell in Him."

Believer: three times happy are you to have such a dwelling-place!
You are greatly privileged, for you have a "strong habitation" in which you are ever safe.
And "dwelling in Him," you have not only a perfect and secure house, but an everlasting one.
When this world shall have melted like a dream, our house shall live, and stand more imperishable than marble, more solid than granite, self-existent as God, for it is God Himself--"We dwell in Him."

The LORD your God is in your midst, A victorious warrior. He will exult over you with joy, He will be quiet in His love, He will rejoice over you with shouts of joy. Zephaniah 3:17

The self-existent and eternal Being, who is in covenant with you. The character of God in reference to the believers when standing in the nearest possible relation to them.

I prefer explaining it of that calm silent joy in the possession of the object of one's love, too great for words to express. Just as God after the six days of creation rested with silent satisfaction in His work, for "behold it was very good". So the parallel clause by contrast expresses the joy, not kept silent as this, but uttered in "singing."

In pointing out these things to the brethren, you will be a good servant of Christ Jesus, [constantly] nourished on the words of the faith and of the sound doctrine which you have been following. 1Timothy 4:6

It is the duty of the ministry to show to the people of their charge what is error and where it may be apprehended, and to caution them to avoid it.

That is, you will be then "a good minister of Jesus Christ, as becomes one who has been nourished up in the words of faith, or trained up in the doctrines of faith and grace." The apostle evidently sincerely wants to remind Timothy of the manner in which he had been trained, and to show him how he might act in accordance with that. From one who had been thus educated, it was reasonable to expect that he would be a faithful and exemplary minister of the gospel.

“Whereunto thou hast attained.” The word used here means, properly, to accompany side by side; to follow closely; to follow out, trace, or examine. It is rendered in the Gospels as having had understanding; and hast fully known. It does not occur elsewhere in the New Testament.

The meaning here seems to be, that Timothy had followed out the instructions of faith given to him by his mentor Paul. He had been trained to their legitimate results; he had accurately seen and understood their bearing, as leading him to embrace the Christian service.

His early training in the Scriptures was now fully carried out, by embracing the Lord Jesus as the Messiah, and by evidencing the proper results of the early training and service to Paul. If he now followed the directions of the apostle, he would be a minister of the Lord Jesus, worthy of the attainments in religious knowledge which he had made, and of the expectations which had been formed of him.

No young man should, by neglect, indolence, or folly, disappoint the reasonable expectations of his mentors. Their cherished hopes are a proper ground of appeal to him, and it may be properly demanded of every one that he shall carry out to their legitimate results all the principles of his early training, and that he shall be in his profession all that his early advantages make it reasonable to expect that he will be.

But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be intreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy James 3:17

The Wisdom of God is a gift to man. In this gift we se a great difference between the wisdom of man in contrast. Thus we are enabled in our ability to discern God’s will and direction for our lives. God’s wisdom cannot be different than His character.

Is first pure. That is, the first effect of it on our receiving soul is to make it pure. The influence on the man is to create the inexplicable desire to be decent, sincere, truthful, holy. The word used here is that which would be applied to one who is innocent, or free from crime or blame. Not an act of will through good works but the out working of the miracle of God.

Then peaceable. The effect of true faith --the wisdom which is from above--will be to dispose a man to live in peace with all others and with God. Peace that we bring to the table no matter what circumstances would try to steal our station.

Gentle. Mild, inoffensive, pleasant. The word here used is rendered moderation in Php 4:6; patient in 1Ti 3:3; and gentle in Tit 3:2. Every one has a clear idea of the virtue of gentleness--gentleness of spirit, of deportment, and of manners; and every one can see that that is the appropriate spirit of fellowship with God and saint alike.

And easy to be entreated. It means easily persuaded, compliant. It cannot refer to things which are in themselves wrong. The sense is, that one who is under the influence of the wisdom which is from above, is not a stiff, stern, obstinate, unyielding person. This is one who can be affected by any appeals which may be made to him on the grounds of patriotism, justice, or benevolence; but is one who is ready to yield when truth requires him to do it, and who is willing to sacrifice his own convenience for the good of others.

There is no disguise or mask assumed. What the person pretends to be, they are. This is everywhere the nature of true faith. It has nothing of its own of which to be ashamed, or which needs to be concealed. Its office is not to hide or conceal anything that is wrong. It neither is a mask, nor does it need a mask.

If such is the nature of the "wisdom which is from above," who is there that should be ashamed of it? Who is there that should not desire that its blessed influence should spread around the world?

"Now on whom dost thou trust?" --Isaiah 36:5

This is an important question. Listen to the Christian's answer, and see if it is yours.

"On whom dost thou trust?"

"I trust," says the Christian, "in a triune God. I trust the Father, believing that He has chosen me from before the foundations of the world; I trust Him to provide for me through divine intervention, to teach me, to guide me, to correct me if need be, and to bring me home to His own house where the many mansions are.

I trust the Son. Completely God of complete God He is --the man Christ Jesus. I trust in Him to take away all my sins by His own sacrifice, and to adorn me with His perfect righteousness. I trust Him to be my Intercessor, to present my prayers and desires before His Father's throne, I trust Him to provide prosperity and healing for me, and I trust Him to be my Advocate at the last great day, to plead my cause, and to justify me.

I trust Him for what He is, for what He has done, and for what He has promised yet to do. And I trust the Holy Spirit--He has begun to save me from my inbred sins; I trust Him to drive them all out; I trust Him to curb my temper, to subdue my will, to enlighten my understanding, to check my passions, to comfort my despondency, to help my weakness, to illuminate my darkness; I trust Him to dwell in me as my life, to reign in me as my King, to sanctify me wholly, spirit, soul, and body, I trust Him to perform His Word through me with signs and wonders, I trust Him to empower me with the fruits and gifts in this life, and then to take me up to dwell with the saints in light for ever."

Oh, blessed trust! To trust Him whose power will never be exhausted, whose love will never wane, whose kindness will never change, whose faithfulness will never fail, whose wisdom will never be less than complete, and whose perfect goodness can never know a attenuation!

Happy are you, if this trust is yours! So trusting, you shall enjoy sweet peace now, and glory hereafter, and the foundation of thy trust shall never be removed.

5/06

TOP

Subscribe to Daily Devotional Unsubscribe

Amazing Grace Ministries

Daily Devotionals Archive