The Wise Choice!
"Mary has chosen that good part, which shall not be taken away from her." (Luke 10:42).
Even Christians do not always choose wisely - but Mary did. We often manifest our folly in our preference - but she displayed her wisdom. She chose to sit at the feet of Jesus as a humble learner - she loved His person, admired His preaching, desired to learn His doctrine, and above all to imbibe His Spirit.
Her object was communion with Him - in which we become conformed unto His image. She preferred fellowship with Jesus - to all anxious concern about entertaining Him as her guest. She preferred this to the commendations and praises of her visitors and friends. In her preference she revealed great spirituality of mind; true wisdom and discernment; attachment to her Lord and His doctrine; deadness to the world and its vain formalities; a concern for the present welfare of her own soul; and a willingness to renounce all for Jesus.
Happy Mary! Honorable woman! May you be my pattern! Your choice was wise; your part was a worthy portion; and your example is held up for our imitation.
How many choose what they cannot keep - and prefer what they must part with. Many things we must lose - others we may loose.
A good name and reputation may be sullied by the breath of slander, or stolen by the unmerciful tale-bearer. If we possess it, we are not sure that we shall retain it.
The esteem and honor of friends, is a lovely flower; but the frost of adversity may nip it; or the scorching heat of persecution may destroy it.
Our prospects in life may be as attractive as the May-day morning; but the thunder cloud of bereavement may overshadow it; and the dispensations of a wise and holy Providence may entirely change it.
Our gifts and abilities which please us and profit others, may be removed by fevers, a stroke, or the judgements of an offended God.
Yes, our temporal and spiritual comforts may all be removed from us, if we choose and prefer them to Mary's portion.
But a place at the feet of Jesus, an interest in His love, fellowship with him - if these are preferred, they can never be taken away!
If grace brings us in humility to the Saviour's feet; if we really enjoy communion with Him more than the fleeting pleasures of time; if an interest in the blessings of the glorious gospel is once realized; if love to Jesus once reigns in the heart; if the promise pleaded is acknowledged at the throne of grace; if hope, blooming with immortality, springs up in the soul; and if faith lays hold of the Redeemer's love, power, and atoning blood - then we have a portion of which we cannot be deprived! Then hell may oppose us - but we shall prevail, the world may persecute us - but we shall overcome, trials may press us - but our strength will be equal to our day. At the feet of Jesus we are safe - no enemy can overcome us there!! At the feet of Jesus we are holy - no sin can gain dominion there!! At the feet of Jesus we are happy - no trouble can be too much for us there!!
My soul, choose Mary's place - and Mary's portion. There is a place at the feet of Jesus for you! The good part may be obtained and enjoyed by you - and once obtained, your Lord will not allow you to be deprived of it.
Reader, there is a place also for you! You may sit by the side of Mary! Your unworthiness is no barrier - for it is the worthless sinner's place!
Oh, come to Jesus now, take your place at His feet now, sit down as one who intends to remain, listen to His sweet voice, receive His holy doctrines, taste His precious love, rest your soul on His atoning blood - and Heaven will immediately begin in your soul!
~James Smith~
(The End)
Saturday, April 18, 2020
Saturday, April 11, 2020
The Cure for Despondency
The Cure for Despondency
"Why are you cast down, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Saviour and my God" (Psalm 42:5).
When the Psalmist gave utterance to these words, his spirit was dejected and his heart was heavy within him. In the checkered career of David, there was much which was calculated to sadden and depress: the cruel persecutions of Saul, who hunted him as a partridge upon the mountains; the treachery of his trusted friend Ahitophel; the betrayal of Absalom; and the remembrance of his own sins - were enough to overwhelm the stoutest heart! And David was a man of like passions with us - he was not always upon the mountain top of joy, but sometimes spent seasons in the slough of despond and gorge of gloom.
But David did not give way to despair, nor succumb to his sorrows. He did not lie down like a stricken beast and do nothing but fill the air with his howling. No, he acted like a rational creature, and like a man, looked his troubles squarely in the face. But he did more; he made diligent inquiry, he challenged himself, he sought to discover the cause of his despondency; he asked, "Why are you cast down, O my soul?" He desired to know the reason for such depression. This is often the first step toward recovery from depression of spirit. Repining arid murmuring get us nowhere. Fretting and wringing our hands bring no relief either temporally or spiritually. There needs to be self-interrogation, self-examination, self-condemnation.
"Why are you cast down, O my soul?" We need to seriously take ourselves to task. We need to fearlessly face a few plain questions. What is the good of giving way to despair? What possible gain can it bring me? To sit and sulk - is not "redeeming the time" (Eph. 5:16). To mope and mourn - will not mend matters. Then let each despondent one call his soul to account, and inquire what adequate cause could be assigned for peevishness and fretting.
"We may have great cause to mourn for sin, and to pray against prevailing impiety. But our great dejection, even under the severest outward afflictions or inward trials - springs from unbelief and a rebellious will. We should therefore strive and pray against it." (Thomas Scott)
"Why are you cast down, O my soul?" Can you not discover the real answer, without asking counsel from others? Is it not true that, deep down in your heart, you already know, or at least suspect - the root of your present trouble? Are you cast down because of distressing circumstances which your own folly has brought you into? Then acknowledge with the Psalmist, "I know, O Lord, that Your judgments are right, and You in faithfulness have afflicted me" (Psalm 119:75).
Are you grieved because Providence has not smiled upon you so sweetly as it has on some of your neighbors? "For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. They have no struggles; they are free from the burdens common to man; they are not plagued by human ills." (Psalm 73:3-5).
"My soul is cast down and my heart is heavy because my finances are at so low an ebb, and the outlook is so dark." That indeed is a painful trial, and one which mere nature often sinks under. But, dear friend, there is a cure for despondency even when so occasioned. Can He who sustained Elijah in the time of famine - not keep you from starving?
Returning to our opening text, let us observe how that David not only did not succumb to his sorrows, interrogated his soul, and rebuked his unbelief - but he also preached to himself: "Hope in God!" Ah, that is what the despondent needs to do - nothing else will bring real relief to the depressed. The immediate outlook may be dark - but the Divine promises are bright. The creature may fail you - but the Creator will not, if you truly put your trust in Him. The world may be at its wits end - but the Christian needs not be so. There is One who is "a very present help in times of trouble" (Psalm 46:1), and He never deserts those who really make Him their refuge. The writer has proved this, many a time - and so may the reader.
"Hope in God!"
Hope in His mercy, hope in His power, hope in His faithfulness, hope in His love.
Let each Christian reader who is not now passing through deep waters join with the writer in fervent prayer to God, that He will graciously sanctify the "present distress" unto the spiritual good of His own people, and mercifully supply their needs.
~A. W. Pink~
(The End)
"Why are you cast down, O my soul? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise Him, my Saviour and my God" (Psalm 42:5).
When the Psalmist gave utterance to these words, his spirit was dejected and his heart was heavy within him. In the checkered career of David, there was much which was calculated to sadden and depress: the cruel persecutions of Saul, who hunted him as a partridge upon the mountains; the treachery of his trusted friend Ahitophel; the betrayal of Absalom; and the remembrance of his own sins - were enough to overwhelm the stoutest heart! And David was a man of like passions with us - he was not always upon the mountain top of joy, but sometimes spent seasons in the slough of despond and gorge of gloom.
But David did not give way to despair, nor succumb to his sorrows. He did not lie down like a stricken beast and do nothing but fill the air with his howling. No, he acted like a rational creature, and like a man, looked his troubles squarely in the face. But he did more; he made diligent inquiry, he challenged himself, he sought to discover the cause of his despondency; he asked, "Why are you cast down, O my soul?" He desired to know the reason for such depression. This is often the first step toward recovery from depression of spirit. Repining arid murmuring get us nowhere. Fretting and wringing our hands bring no relief either temporally or spiritually. There needs to be self-interrogation, self-examination, self-condemnation.
"Why are you cast down, O my soul?" We need to seriously take ourselves to task. We need to fearlessly face a few plain questions. What is the good of giving way to despair? What possible gain can it bring me? To sit and sulk - is not "redeeming the time" (Eph. 5:16). To mope and mourn - will not mend matters. Then let each despondent one call his soul to account, and inquire what adequate cause could be assigned for peevishness and fretting.
"We may have great cause to mourn for sin, and to pray against prevailing impiety. But our great dejection, even under the severest outward afflictions or inward trials - springs from unbelief and a rebellious will. We should therefore strive and pray against it." (Thomas Scott)
"Why are you cast down, O my soul?" Can you not discover the real answer, without asking counsel from others? Is it not true that, deep down in your heart, you already know, or at least suspect - the root of your present trouble? Are you cast down because of distressing circumstances which your own folly has brought you into? Then acknowledge with the Psalmist, "I know, O Lord, that Your judgments are right, and You in faithfulness have afflicted me" (Psalm 119:75).
Are you grieved because Providence has not smiled upon you so sweetly as it has on some of your neighbors? "For I envied the arrogant when I saw the prosperity of the wicked. They have no struggles; they are free from the burdens common to man; they are not plagued by human ills." (Psalm 73:3-5).
"My soul is cast down and my heart is heavy because my finances are at so low an ebb, and the outlook is so dark." That indeed is a painful trial, and one which mere nature often sinks under. But, dear friend, there is a cure for despondency even when so occasioned. Can He who sustained Elijah in the time of famine - not keep you from starving?
Returning to our opening text, let us observe how that David not only did not succumb to his sorrows, interrogated his soul, and rebuked his unbelief - but he also preached to himself: "Hope in God!" Ah, that is what the despondent needs to do - nothing else will bring real relief to the depressed. The immediate outlook may be dark - but the Divine promises are bright. The creature may fail you - but the Creator will not, if you truly put your trust in Him. The world may be at its wits end - but the Christian needs not be so. There is One who is "a very present help in times of trouble" (Psalm 46:1), and He never deserts those who really make Him their refuge. The writer has proved this, many a time - and so may the reader.
"Hope in God!"
Hope in His mercy, hope in His power, hope in His faithfulness, hope in His love.
Let each Christian reader who is not now passing through deep waters join with the writer in fervent prayer to God, that He will graciously sanctify the "present distress" unto the spiritual good of His own people, and mercifully supply their needs.
~A. W. Pink~
(The End)
Saturday, April 4, 2020
Differing Gifts # 1
Differing Gifts # 1
"There are different kinds of gifts - but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service - but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working - but the same God works all of them in all men" (1 Corinthians 12:4-6).
All men are not alike in their natural endowments. The differences we see in abilities and attainments are not all the result of education or of varying circumstances. If all had precisely the same opportunities for development and culture, if all grew up in precisely the same circumstances - there would still be the most wonderful diversity of gifts and abilities.
The sun shines alike on the plants and trees, and the rains fall alike on them; and yet they grow up, each with its own distinct individuality. All flowers do not become daisies, nor do all trees become oaks. The rose cannot through any kind of culture, become an apple tree. The creeping vine cannot be taught to rear its head high up - the peer of the mighty oak. The clover cannot be cultivated into a water lily. A thousand years of culture would not give to the blazing sunflower, the fragrance of the mignonett. God has made them to differ.
He gives to the oak, a gift of strength; to the vine, a gift of fruitfulness; to the rose, a gift of beauty; and to the lily, a gift of fragrance.
Just so, He makes men to differ - distributing His gifts among them; and no advantages of culture or education would obliterate these differences. He gives to some five talents, to some two, to others only one.
There is the most wonderful variety in all of God's works. One star differs from another star in glory. The surface of the earth is diversified by valleys, hills, mountains, plateaus, rivers, lakes and seas. In the natural world you find the giant redwood of California - and at its root the tiny moss clinging to the rock. The sea contains great whales - and if you take a microscope and look into a drop of water, you shall find it to contain myriads of minute animalculae, so small that the single drop in which they move is like an ocean to them. Great beasts roam the forest - and if you examine a green leaf, you shall find it a little world in itself, with its tiny forests and gardens, and covered with its dense population of living creatures.
In the same way, the same variety characterizes human gifts. No two faces are alike; of all the millions on the earth - no two people have precisely the same capacities and endowments.
I suppose the reason why God has thus distributed His gifts so unequally - is that every part of the work of the world may be done. This is the reason which the apostle Paul gives in his letter to the Corinthians: "If the whole body were an eye - then where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear - then where would the sense of smell be?"
We may further carry out the illustration. If all men were merchants - then who would till the soil, navigate the ships, and work the mines? If all were painters or sculptors - then who would write the books and heal the sick? If all were millionaires - then who would compose the great army of laborers who drive the wheels of business? If all in the church had the gift of pulpit eloquence - then who would teach in the Sunday school?
There is a variety of work to be done - and there is, therefore, need for every variety of workman. And God distributes His gifts so that there may be a hand for every task, a foot for every errand, a tongue for every word that needs to be spoken, and a heart for every service of love.
There is no confusion in God's distribution of gifts. As the many members of the body, working together in perfect harmony, make up one complete body - so the many members of the body of Christ, if all are faithful in their divine spheres, together make one glorious whole.
Every one, even the lowliest - has a distinct mission of his own, and God bestows just the gifts each one needs for the work allotted. He wanted some great apostles to found His church and to bear His name before kings - and He chose twelve men and gave them great gifts. He wanted a reformer to tear the draperies of superstition from the cross and to unchain the Bible - and he raised up Luther and fitted him for the glorious work. So in every age, God has a few great missions to fill - and He grants to a few men great gifts. But at the same time He wants humble servants to go and sit down by the poor and sick, and tell them of the Saviour's love; to prisons, and hospitals; to teach the child, and to do the thousand little nameless things of Christian service which must every day be done. And He gives to many of his servants, just the precise talent to fit them for doing just these little things.
But whatever our talents may be - they are just what God has given us; and they are just what we need for the special work which God has allotted us. Who will say that the modest daisy is not as noble in its own place as the tallest, proudest oak? Nobleness consists in being what God made and meant us to be - and in doing what God gives us to do. Faithfulness to our mission will receive the reward. Unfaithfulness in the use of our gifts, whether great or small - will bring God's displeasure and loss of all.
~J. R. Miller~
(The End)
"There are different kinds of gifts - but the same Spirit. There are different kinds of service - but the same Lord. There are different kinds of working - but the same God works all of them in all men" (1 Corinthians 12:4-6).
All men are not alike in their natural endowments. The differences we see in abilities and attainments are not all the result of education or of varying circumstances. If all had precisely the same opportunities for development and culture, if all grew up in precisely the same circumstances - there would still be the most wonderful diversity of gifts and abilities.
The sun shines alike on the plants and trees, and the rains fall alike on them; and yet they grow up, each with its own distinct individuality. All flowers do not become daisies, nor do all trees become oaks. The rose cannot through any kind of culture, become an apple tree. The creeping vine cannot be taught to rear its head high up - the peer of the mighty oak. The clover cannot be cultivated into a water lily. A thousand years of culture would not give to the blazing sunflower, the fragrance of the mignonett. God has made them to differ.
He gives to the oak, a gift of strength; to the vine, a gift of fruitfulness; to the rose, a gift of beauty; and to the lily, a gift of fragrance.
Just so, He makes men to differ - distributing His gifts among them; and no advantages of culture or education would obliterate these differences. He gives to some five talents, to some two, to others only one.
There is the most wonderful variety in all of God's works. One star differs from another star in glory. The surface of the earth is diversified by valleys, hills, mountains, plateaus, rivers, lakes and seas. In the natural world you find the giant redwood of California - and at its root the tiny moss clinging to the rock. The sea contains great whales - and if you take a microscope and look into a drop of water, you shall find it to contain myriads of minute animalculae, so small that the single drop in which they move is like an ocean to them. Great beasts roam the forest - and if you examine a green leaf, you shall find it a little world in itself, with its tiny forests and gardens, and covered with its dense population of living creatures.
In the same way, the same variety characterizes human gifts. No two faces are alike; of all the millions on the earth - no two people have precisely the same capacities and endowments.
I suppose the reason why God has thus distributed His gifts so unequally - is that every part of the work of the world may be done. This is the reason which the apostle Paul gives in his letter to the Corinthians: "If the whole body were an eye - then where would the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear - then where would the sense of smell be?"
We may further carry out the illustration. If all men were merchants - then who would till the soil, navigate the ships, and work the mines? If all were painters or sculptors - then who would write the books and heal the sick? If all were millionaires - then who would compose the great army of laborers who drive the wheels of business? If all in the church had the gift of pulpit eloquence - then who would teach in the Sunday school?
There is a variety of work to be done - and there is, therefore, need for every variety of workman. And God distributes His gifts so that there may be a hand for every task, a foot for every errand, a tongue for every word that needs to be spoken, and a heart for every service of love.
There is no confusion in God's distribution of gifts. As the many members of the body, working together in perfect harmony, make up one complete body - so the many members of the body of Christ, if all are faithful in their divine spheres, together make one glorious whole.
Every one, even the lowliest - has a distinct mission of his own, and God bestows just the gifts each one needs for the work allotted. He wanted some great apostles to found His church and to bear His name before kings - and He chose twelve men and gave them great gifts. He wanted a reformer to tear the draperies of superstition from the cross and to unchain the Bible - and he raised up Luther and fitted him for the glorious work. So in every age, God has a few great missions to fill - and He grants to a few men great gifts. But at the same time He wants humble servants to go and sit down by the poor and sick, and tell them of the Saviour's love; to prisons, and hospitals; to teach the child, and to do the thousand little nameless things of Christian service which must every day be done. And He gives to many of his servants, just the precise talent to fit them for doing just these little things.
But whatever our talents may be - they are just what God has given us; and they are just what we need for the special work which God has allotted us. Who will say that the modest daisy is not as noble in its own place as the tallest, proudest oak? Nobleness consists in being what God made and meant us to be - and in doing what God gives us to do. Faithfulness to our mission will receive the reward. Unfaithfulness in the use of our gifts, whether great or small - will bring God's displeasure and loss of all.
~J. R. Miller~
(The End)
Saturday, March 28, 2020
True Wisdom Incomparable # 1
True Wisdom Incomparable # 1
"For wisdom is more profitable than silver, and her wages are better than gold. Wisdom is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. She offers you long life in her right hand, and riches and honor in her left. She will guide you down delightful paths; all her ways are satisfying. Wisdom is a tree of life to those who embrace her; happy are those who hold her tightly." (Proverbs 3:14-18).
The wisdom of God is a perfection of His which He knows all things, arranges all things, provides for all things, so that none of His purposes can be frustrated, or any of His plans be defeated. His every purpose, every plan, is infinitely wise, and must therefore be carried out.
The Lord Jesus is the personal wisdom of God. Or, the wisdom of God personified, and represented - for in Him dwells all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. He is the only wise God, revealed and manifested. Divine wisdom in man, is real religion; or man sympathizing with God, fixing on the same end, fallin in with the same plan, and carrying on the same work.
To get wisdom, is to become wise unto salvation; wise to secure all real good, and to escape from all real evil. Wisdom is commended to us by the wisest of men, and we are exhorted to get it and retain it; in order to which it is set forth as preeminently excellent. Hear the word, "She is more precious than jewels; nothing you desire compares with her!" (Proverbs 3:15).
Like some lovely female, having length of days in her right hand, and in her left hand riches and honor, leading in pleasant ways and peaceful paths - she is presented to engage our attention and win our love.
Let us look at THE OBJECT. True wisdom - or real religion as it stands in the knowledge and fear of God. At present, real religion is comprised in four things:
1. In the knowledge of Christ. He is the Saviour. He saves all who put their trust in Him. Every one who knows Him, trusts in Him, and is saved by Him. No science is to be compared to the knowledge of Christ. It is never perfect - but will be forever capable of increase. Paul knew much - but how ardently he desired more. For it, he suffered the loss of all things, and still cried out, "That I may know him!" To know Christ is to be truly wise, eternally safe, and really happy.
2. The knowledge of Christ, always leads to union with Christ. On Him alone we rest. From Him we draw all our supplies. By Him we are empowered and directed. As the building rests on the foundation, as the branch receives from the vine, and as the member is directed by the head, so being in union with Christ, are we blessed and benefitted by Him. As united to Him, we are interested in all that belongs to Him, and derive incalculable and eternal blessings from Him.
3. This leads to conforming to Christ. Receiving His Spirit, we observe His word, copy His example, and resemble Him in some faint degree. The more we resemble Christ - the more we desire to do so; nor will anything but inward and outward likeness to Jesus ever satisfy us.
4. Then comes the prospect of being forever with Christ.
Knowing Him - we cannot rest until we are in union with Him; united to Him - the highest object of our desire is to resemble Him; and resembling Him - the heart longs to be with Him.
This is true religion, the religion of Christ. It has Christ for its object and subject; Christ for its source and center; Christ as its Alpha and Omega.
It brings us to Christ - as sinners; unites us with Christ - as believers; conforms us to Christ - as Christians; and forever connects us with Christ - as saints.
The transcendent excellency OF THIS OBJECT. "She is more precious than jewels; nothing you desire compares with her!"
Men desire health - but bodily health is only for a time. Divine wisdom gives perpetual health, both of body and soul. Men desire wealth, life, honor, pleasure and fame. Then we must get wisdom! If we obtain this wisdom, or if we are truly godly - then we shall exist forever in health, wealth, honor, pleasure, and renown. We shall dwell with God, be like His beloved Son, and never know a painful desire, anxious wish, or gloomy fear!
Let us therefore value, or prefer true wisdom to everything else, for all desirable things are not to be compared with it.
Let us try to induce others to embrace wisdom. She calls to the sons of man. She has provided a sumptuous feast. She is willing to receive all that come. To all about us then let us employ the invitation. "Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding. Esteem her, and she will exalt you; embrace her, and she will honor you!" (Proverbs 4:6-8).
~James Smith~
(The End)
"For wisdom is more profitable than silver, and her wages are better than gold. Wisdom is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her. She offers you long life in her right hand, and riches and honor in her left. She will guide you down delightful paths; all her ways are satisfying. Wisdom is a tree of life to those who embrace her; happy are those who hold her tightly." (Proverbs 3:14-18).
The wisdom of God is a perfection of His which He knows all things, arranges all things, provides for all things, so that none of His purposes can be frustrated, or any of His plans be defeated. His every purpose, every plan, is infinitely wise, and must therefore be carried out.
The Lord Jesus is the personal wisdom of God. Or, the wisdom of God personified, and represented - for in Him dwells all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. He is the only wise God, revealed and manifested. Divine wisdom in man, is real religion; or man sympathizing with God, fixing on the same end, fallin in with the same plan, and carrying on the same work.
To get wisdom, is to become wise unto salvation; wise to secure all real good, and to escape from all real evil. Wisdom is commended to us by the wisest of men, and we are exhorted to get it and retain it; in order to which it is set forth as preeminently excellent. Hear the word, "She is more precious than jewels; nothing you desire compares with her!" (Proverbs 3:15).
Like some lovely female, having length of days in her right hand, and in her left hand riches and honor, leading in pleasant ways and peaceful paths - she is presented to engage our attention and win our love.
Let us look at THE OBJECT. True wisdom - or real religion as it stands in the knowledge and fear of God. At present, real religion is comprised in four things:
1. In the knowledge of Christ. He is the Saviour. He saves all who put their trust in Him. Every one who knows Him, trusts in Him, and is saved by Him. No science is to be compared to the knowledge of Christ. It is never perfect - but will be forever capable of increase. Paul knew much - but how ardently he desired more. For it, he suffered the loss of all things, and still cried out, "That I may know him!" To know Christ is to be truly wise, eternally safe, and really happy.
2. The knowledge of Christ, always leads to union with Christ. On Him alone we rest. From Him we draw all our supplies. By Him we are empowered and directed. As the building rests on the foundation, as the branch receives from the vine, and as the member is directed by the head, so being in union with Christ, are we blessed and benefitted by Him. As united to Him, we are interested in all that belongs to Him, and derive incalculable and eternal blessings from Him.
3. This leads to conforming to Christ. Receiving His Spirit, we observe His word, copy His example, and resemble Him in some faint degree. The more we resemble Christ - the more we desire to do so; nor will anything but inward and outward likeness to Jesus ever satisfy us.
4. Then comes the prospect of being forever with Christ.
Knowing Him - we cannot rest until we are in union with Him; united to Him - the highest object of our desire is to resemble Him; and resembling Him - the heart longs to be with Him.
This is true religion, the religion of Christ. It has Christ for its object and subject; Christ for its source and center; Christ as its Alpha and Omega.
It brings us to Christ - as sinners; unites us with Christ - as believers; conforms us to Christ - as Christians; and forever connects us with Christ - as saints.
The transcendent excellency OF THIS OBJECT. "She is more precious than jewels; nothing you desire compares with her!"
Men desire health - but bodily health is only for a time. Divine wisdom gives perpetual health, both of body and soul. Men desire wealth, life, honor, pleasure and fame. Then we must get wisdom! If we obtain this wisdom, or if we are truly godly - then we shall exist forever in health, wealth, honor, pleasure, and renown. We shall dwell with God, be like His beloved Son, and never know a painful desire, anxious wish, or gloomy fear!
Let us therefore value, or prefer true wisdom to everything else, for all desirable things are not to be compared with it.
Let us try to induce others to embrace wisdom. She calls to the sons of man. She has provided a sumptuous feast. She is willing to receive all that come. To all about us then let us employ the invitation. "Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you; love her, and she will watch over you. Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding. Esteem her, and she will exalt you; embrace her, and she will honor you!" (Proverbs 4:6-8).
~James Smith~
(The End)
Saturday, March 21, 2020
An Israelite Indeed!
An Israelite Indeed!
True grace in the heart always manifests itself by a concern for the welfare of others, and an attempt to bring them to Jesus. Where there is no concern for the salvation of others, no efforts to save souls from death - the case is at best very doubtful. When Jesus called Philip, he began to look after Nathaniel, spoke to him, pleaded with him, and met his objections; nor did he leave him, until he had brought him to Jesus. "Jesus saw Nathaniel coming to Him, and said of him: "Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit." (John 1:47). Letus look at:
Nathaniel's Title. "An Israelite indeed!" As an Israelite - he was distinguished from other nations; and as an Israelite indeed - he was distinguished from many of his own people. He was circumcised in heart, as every true believer is, being renewed in the spirit of his mind. He was taught out of God's law - and therefore knew God's holiness, and his own sinfulness, and the method of salvation by grace. He was savingly interested in the atonement, which was made by Israel's priest, for Israel's race. He was cleansed from pollution and defilement, with the washing of water by the word. He was separated from the world around, separated by God, and for God, as the whole house of Israel were. He was related to God, being part of the people whom the Lord called His own, his first-born. To him as a sincere, sensible, and instructed worshiper of God - no sin was imputed, for to him belonged the blessedness of the man whose iniquity is forgiven, and whose sin is covered, to whom the Lord does not impute sin.
Just so, all God's true Israel are regenerated by the Holy Spirit - taught of God; savingly interested in the sacrifice and perfect work of Christ; cleansed from pollution by the sanctifying operations of the Holy Spirit; adopted into God's family; and justified from all things before God's throne. Consider, then,
Nathaniel's Excellence. "An Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit." There was no pretense about him, no hypocrisy, no sham. He was really what he appeared to be - as every profesor should be.
He was sincere before God in prayer and praise, offering Him the service of the heart, and giving utterance to the feelings of the soul.
He was sincere before men in his profession and in his dealings. He professed to be just what he was - and was just what he professed to be. His word might be taken, and his honesty trusted.
He was honest with himself, examining his own heart, and comparing his inner life and outward conduct with God's own righteous standard. He was all of one piece - the same in all places, in all companies, and at all times, so that you may know him. He hated graft, cunning, duplicity, and artifice; and was open and candid in his dealings. This is just what every professor or religion should be and do. Brethren, let us be deceitless. Let us have no hypocrisy, no pretense, no sham. But let us be sincere, upright, and honest. If we are wicked - let us appear so; and if we are righteous - let us prove it by works of righteousness. But never let us cover hatred with deceit, either toward God or man. Let us now glance at,
The Saviour's Note of Admiration. "Behold!" Behold the character, for it is rare and uncommon; it is excellent and admirable; it is instructive and impressive. Let us, therefore, behold and learn what Christ admires; what grace produces; and what distinguishes man from man - SINCERITY. There is no true religion without sincerity of heart and life. Let us see what God approves.
Observe, profession and possession differ: many have a profession of Christ - who do not have possession of Christ. Therefore said the apostle, "We are the true circumcision, who worship God in the Spirit, rejoice in Christ, and have no confidence in the flesh."
The Saviour discerns and distinguishes. His eye penetrates the heart. He is acquainted with every thought, purpose, and motive of the soul. There is no deceiving Him, for He has said, "I am He who searches hearts and minds."
Gracious Saviour, search me in mercy. Show me just what I am in Your sight - and make me just what I ought to be, both before God and man. Save, O save me, from all pretense, hypocrisy, and deceit; and make me open, honest, and sincere; that those who know me best, may say of me, as you did of Nathaniel, "Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit!"
~James Smith~
(The End)
True grace in the heart always manifests itself by a concern for the welfare of others, and an attempt to bring them to Jesus. Where there is no concern for the salvation of others, no efforts to save souls from death - the case is at best very doubtful. When Jesus called Philip, he began to look after Nathaniel, spoke to him, pleaded with him, and met his objections; nor did he leave him, until he had brought him to Jesus. "Jesus saw Nathaniel coming to Him, and said of him: "Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit." (John 1:47). Letus look at:
Nathaniel's Title. "An Israelite indeed!" As an Israelite - he was distinguished from other nations; and as an Israelite indeed - he was distinguished from many of his own people. He was circumcised in heart, as every true believer is, being renewed in the spirit of his mind. He was taught out of God's law - and therefore knew God's holiness, and his own sinfulness, and the method of salvation by grace. He was savingly interested in the atonement, which was made by Israel's priest, for Israel's race. He was cleansed from pollution and defilement, with the washing of water by the word. He was separated from the world around, separated by God, and for God, as the whole house of Israel were. He was related to God, being part of the people whom the Lord called His own, his first-born. To him as a sincere, sensible, and instructed worshiper of God - no sin was imputed, for to him belonged the blessedness of the man whose iniquity is forgiven, and whose sin is covered, to whom the Lord does not impute sin.
Just so, all God's true Israel are regenerated by the Holy Spirit - taught of God; savingly interested in the sacrifice and perfect work of Christ; cleansed from pollution by the sanctifying operations of the Holy Spirit; adopted into God's family; and justified from all things before God's throne. Consider, then,
Nathaniel's Excellence. "An Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit." There was no pretense about him, no hypocrisy, no sham. He was really what he appeared to be - as every profesor should be.
He was sincere before God in prayer and praise, offering Him the service of the heart, and giving utterance to the feelings of the soul.
He was sincere before men in his profession and in his dealings. He professed to be just what he was - and was just what he professed to be. His word might be taken, and his honesty trusted.
He was honest with himself, examining his own heart, and comparing his inner life and outward conduct with God's own righteous standard. He was all of one piece - the same in all places, in all companies, and at all times, so that you may know him. He hated graft, cunning, duplicity, and artifice; and was open and candid in his dealings. This is just what every professor or religion should be and do. Brethren, let us be deceitless. Let us have no hypocrisy, no pretense, no sham. But let us be sincere, upright, and honest. If we are wicked - let us appear so; and if we are righteous - let us prove it by works of righteousness. But never let us cover hatred with deceit, either toward God or man. Let us now glance at,
The Saviour's Note of Admiration. "Behold!" Behold the character, for it is rare and uncommon; it is excellent and admirable; it is instructive and impressive. Let us, therefore, behold and learn what Christ admires; what grace produces; and what distinguishes man from man - SINCERITY. There is no true religion without sincerity of heart and life. Let us see what God approves.
Observe, profession and possession differ: many have a profession of Christ - who do not have possession of Christ. Therefore said the apostle, "We are the true circumcision, who worship God in the Spirit, rejoice in Christ, and have no confidence in the flesh."
The Saviour discerns and distinguishes. His eye penetrates the heart. He is acquainted with every thought, purpose, and motive of the soul. There is no deceiving Him, for He has said, "I am He who searches hearts and minds."
Gracious Saviour, search me in mercy. Show me just what I am in Your sight - and make me just what I ought to be, both before God and man. Save, O save me, from all pretense, hypocrisy, and deceit; and make me open, honest, and sincere; that those who know me best, may say of me, as you did of Nathaniel, "Behold an Israelite indeed, in whom is no deceit!"
~James Smith~
(The End)
Saturday, March 14, 2020
The Plague of Unsatisfiedness (and others)
The Plague of Unsatisfiedness (and others)
"Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of covetousness; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions" (Luke 12:15).
Covetousness is a very great and grievous sin; a mother-sin, a breeding sin; a sin which has all sin in its womb; a very vile and heinous sin; the root of all evil.
Covetousness makes the soul earthly - which should be celestial.
Covetousness is an evil which subjects men to the basest and vilest evils.
Covetousness makes a man a fool! "You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?" (Luke 12:20).
Covetousness robs a man of all true peace, comfort, contentment and quiet.
Covetousness brings men into snares which drown their souls in perdition.
Covetousness renders men unsatisfied under all their outward enjoyments. Though a covetous wretch has enough to sink him - yet he can never have enough to satisfy him. First he wishes for a bag full, and then a chest full, and then a room full, and then a house full, etc.
The plague of unsatisfiedness - is the great plague which covetous men are under. Certainly you shall as soon fill a triangle with a circle, and a chest with grace - as you shall be able to fill and satisfy a covetous mind with money.
A covetous man is like a swine - which is good for nothing while it lives. The horse is good to carry, the ox is good to draw, the sheep is good for cloth, the cow is good to give milk, and the dog is good to guard the house - but the hog is good for nothing while he lives! Just so, a covetous man is only serviceable when he is dead. The scripture often proes true, "the riches of a sinner are laid up for the just" (Job 27:17).
No sin lays men under greater woes!
"People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs" (1 Tim. 6:9-10).
~Thomas Brooks~
(The End)
_____________________
A House of Fools!
"The heart of fools is in the house of pleasure" (Ecc. 7:4).
A fool prefers toys and trifles, above things of greatest worth.
Just so, wicked and ungodly men prefer their lusts, before the Lord. Upon choice, they prefer the honors, the riches and glory of this fleeting world - above their own souls and the great concerns of eternity.
Says one: "If you behold the lives of men, you will judge the whole world to be a house of fools!"
Ah, friends! What folly can be compared to that of men's spending their time, their strength, their lives, their souls - in getting the ephemeral things of this world, and neglecting that one thing necessary - the salvation of their souls! Oh, what vanity is it to prefer a puff of honor, a blast of fame, a dream of pleasure, a wedge of gold, a Babylonish garment, and such like transitory trifles and trash - before a blessed eternity!
"For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his soul?
Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?" (Matthew 16:26).
~Thomas Brooks~
(The End)
"Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of covetousness; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions" (Luke 12:15).
Covetousness is a very great and grievous sin; a mother-sin, a breeding sin; a sin which has all sin in its womb; a very vile and heinous sin; the root of all evil.
Covetousness makes the soul earthly - which should be celestial.
Covetousness is an evil which subjects men to the basest and vilest evils.
Covetousness makes a man a fool! "You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?" (Luke 12:20).
Covetousness robs a man of all true peace, comfort, contentment and quiet.
Covetousness brings men into snares which drown their souls in perdition.
Covetousness renders men unsatisfied under all their outward enjoyments. Though a covetous wretch has enough to sink him - yet he can never have enough to satisfy him. First he wishes for a bag full, and then a chest full, and then a room full, and then a house full, etc.
The plague of unsatisfiedness - is the great plague which covetous men are under. Certainly you shall as soon fill a triangle with a circle, and a chest with grace - as you shall be able to fill and satisfy a covetous mind with money.
A covetous man is like a swine - which is good for nothing while it lives. The horse is good to carry, the ox is good to draw, the sheep is good for cloth, the cow is good to give milk, and the dog is good to guard the house - but the hog is good for nothing while he lives! Just so, a covetous man is only serviceable when he is dead. The scripture often proes true, "the riches of a sinner are laid up for the just" (Job 27:17).
No sin lays men under greater woes!
"People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs" (1 Tim. 6:9-10).
~Thomas Brooks~
(The End)
_____________________
A House of Fools!
"The heart of fools is in the house of pleasure" (Ecc. 7:4).
A fool prefers toys and trifles, above things of greatest worth.
Just so, wicked and ungodly men prefer their lusts, before the Lord. Upon choice, they prefer the honors, the riches and glory of this fleeting world - above their own souls and the great concerns of eternity.
Says one: "If you behold the lives of men, you will judge the whole world to be a house of fools!"
Ah, friends! What folly can be compared to that of men's spending their time, their strength, their lives, their souls - in getting the ephemeral things of this world, and neglecting that one thing necessary - the salvation of their souls! Oh, what vanity is it to prefer a puff of honor, a blast of fame, a dream of pleasure, a wedge of gold, a Babylonish garment, and such like transitory trifles and trash - before a blessed eternity!
"For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his soul?
Or what shall a man give in return for his soul?" (Matthew 16:26).
~Thomas Brooks~
(The End)
Saturday, March 7, 2020
The Saviour's Will # 3
The Saviour's Will # 3
All things are possible to grace - and grace is willed to us! By grace, we may serve God acceptably, with reverence and godly fear. We can do nothing good, or acceptable to God - without grace! But we can do all things - through Christ strengthening us! Our strength lies in absolute dependence on the word, presence, power, and faithfulness of God! Our weakness and falls are from that spirit of independence which at first led man from God, and constantly prompts us to endeavor to do without Him.
If we abide in Jesus, if we venture, trusting only to the power of a present God - we cannot fall! But though as strong as Samson, if we venture at anything alone - we shall fall as foully as Samson did. It is not by human might, that the Christian runs the race set before him - but it is by the Spirit of the Lord Almighty!
Grace is willed to us by Jesus, and Jehovah will give grace and glory; and no good thing will be withheld from those who walk uprightly. He has willed to all of His family, "All things which pertain to life and godliness."
No man is required to live godly at his own expense; everything necessary is prepared, promised, and bestowed by Jesus. A godly life is a life of self-denial, and dedication to the Lord; His person is to be daily offered up as a sacrifice to God. His private interests are merged in the interests of his beloved Lord. It is for him to exhibit to the world - the Spirit and graces of his Saviour, and thus live to His glory, who died for His sin. All spiritual blessings, and every temporal mercy which is necessary - is bequeathed to him! Seeking the Lord, he shall not lack any good thing. His Heavenly Father knew what he would need - and provided for him accordingly; and Jesus has assured him that applying to the Father in His name - He will bestow needed grace upon him.
We apply for what Jesus purchased, and receive by grace, all that God has promised. Our present portion of temporals may be scanty - but it is sufficient; and better is a little with the fear of the Lord, than great revenues without it. The blessing of the Lord makes rich, and He adds no sorrow to it.
Our Saviour in His wisdom has apportioned to His people enough, enough for their real welfare - though perhaps not enough to gratify their pride, or please their carnal imagination. He teaches us both how to abound and how to suffer need. He either sanctifies our poverty - or gives us more. He gives more grace, He gives liberally and upbraids not.
We are traveling to the place which the Lord our God has promised us, and we only need our traveling expenses; and these we shall assuredly receive! And if our fare is course, our bed hard, our habitation uncomfortable, and our society unpleasant - it can be so but for a little while, for soon the command will come, "Arise and depart - for this is not your rest - for it is polluted!"
5. Finally, our Lord has willed us an INHERITANCE, which is incorruptible, undefiled, and unfading! It is laid up in Heaven for us. It is a house not made with hands, in a city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God. It is an eternal weight of glory. To introduce us to our inheritance - He will come Himself! And to satisfy us with it - He will abide with us forever!
In this inheritance, all will be purity, peace, activity, and glory! Jesus will be forever honored, and we shall be forever delighted and satisfied! The days of our mourning shall be ended. The people shall be all righteous, and they shall inherit the land forever, that Jehovah may be glorified!
In a very little while - Jesus will come back for us!
"How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when He appears, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is!" (1 John 3:1-2).
~James Smith~
(The End)
All things are possible to grace - and grace is willed to us! By grace, we may serve God acceptably, with reverence and godly fear. We can do nothing good, or acceptable to God - without grace! But we can do all things - through Christ strengthening us! Our strength lies in absolute dependence on the word, presence, power, and faithfulness of God! Our weakness and falls are from that spirit of independence which at first led man from God, and constantly prompts us to endeavor to do without Him.
If we abide in Jesus, if we venture, trusting only to the power of a present God - we cannot fall! But though as strong as Samson, if we venture at anything alone - we shall fall as foully as Samson did. It is not by human might, that the Christian runs the race set before him - but it is by the Spirit of the Lord Almighty!
Grace is willed to us by Jesus, and Jehovah will give grace and glory; and no good thing will be withheld from those who walk uprightly. He has willed to all of His family, "All things which pertain to life and godliness."
No man is required to live godly at his own expense; everything necessary is prepared, promised, and bestowed by Jesus. A godly life is a life of self-denial, and dedication to the Lord; His person is to be daily offered up as a sacrifice to God. His private interests are merged in the interests of his beloved Lord. It is for him to exhibit to the world - the Spirit and graces of his Saviour, and thus live to His glory, who died for His sin. All spiritual blessings, and every temporal mercy which is necessary - is bequeathed to him! Seeking the Lord, he shall not lack any good thing. His Heavenly Father knew what he would need - and provided for him accordingly; and Jesus has assured him that applying to the Father in His name - He will bestow needed grace upon him.
We apply for what Jesus purchased, and receive by grace, all that God has promised. Our present portion of temporals may be scanty - but it is sufficient; and better is a little with the fear of the Lord, than great revenues without it. The blessing of the Lord makes rich, and He adds no sorrow to it.
Our Saviour in His wisdom has apportioned to His people enough, enough for their real welfare - though perhaps not enough to gratify their pride, or please their carnal imagination. He teaches us both how to abound and how to suffer need. He either sanctifies our poverty - or gives us more. He gives more grace, He gives liberally and upbraids not.
We are traveling to the place which the Lord our God has promised us, and we only need our traveling expenses; and these we shall assuredly receive! And if our fare is course, our bed hard, our habitation uncomfortable, and our society unpleasant - it can be so but for a little while, for soon the command will come, "Arise and depart - for this is not your rest - for it is polluted!"
5. Finally, our Lord has willed us an INHERITANCE, which is incorruptible, undefiled, and unfading! It is laid up in Heaven for us. It is a house not made with hands, in a city which has foundations, whose builder and maker is God. It is an eternal weight of glory. To introduce us to our inheritance - He will come Himself! And to satisfy us with it - He will abide with us forever!
In this inheritance, all will be purity, peace, activity, and glory! Jesus will be forever honored, and we shall be forever delighted and satisfied! The days of our mourning shall be ended. The people shall be all righteous, and they shall inherit the land forever, that Jehovah may be glorified!
In a very little while - Jesus will come back for us!
"How great is the love the Father has lavished on us, that we should be called children of God! And that is what we are! Dear friends, now we are children of God, and what we will be has not yet been made known. But we know that when He appears, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is!" (1 John 3:1-2).
~James Smith~
(The End)
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