Morning and Evening

by Charles Spurgeon

MAY
 

May 1 — Morning

"His cheeks are as a bed of spices, as sweet flowers." Song of Solomon 5:13

Lo, the flowery month is come! March winds and April showers have done their work, and the earth is all bedecked with beauty. Come my soul, put on your holiday attire and go forth to gather garlands of heavenly thoughts. You know where to betake yourself, for to you "the beds of spices" are well known, and you have so often smelled the perfume of "the sweet flowers," that you will go at once to your well-beloved and find all loveliness, all joy in Him. That cheek once so rudely smitten with a rod, oft bedewed with tears of sympathy and then defiled with spittle—that cheek as it smiles with mercy is as fragrant aromatic to my heart.

You did not hide Your face from shame and spitting, O Lord Jesus, and therefore I will find my dearest delight in praising You. Those cheeks were furrowed by the plough of grief, and crimsoned with red lines of blood from Your thorn-crowned temples; such marks of unbounded love cannot but charm my soul far more than "pillars of perfume." If I may not see the whole of His face, I would behold His cheeks, for the least glimpse of Him is exceedingly refreshing to my spiritual sense and yields a variety of delights. In Jesus I find not only fragrance, but a bed of spices; not one flower, but all kinds of sweet flowers. He is to me my rose and my lily, my heart's-ease and my cluster of camphire. When He is with me it is May all the year round, and my soul goes forth to wash her happy face in the morning-dew of His grace, and to solace herself with the singing of the birds of His promises. Precious Lord Jesus, let me in very deed know the blessedness which dwells in abiding, unbroken fellowship with You. I am a poor worthless one, whose cheek You have deigned to kiss! O let me kiss You in return with the kisses of my lips.
 

May 1 — Evening

"I am the Rose of Sharon." Song of Solomon 2:1

Whatever there may be of beauty in the material world, Jesus Christ possesses all that in the spiritual world, in a tenfold degree. Among flowers, the rose is deemed the sweetest—but Jesus is infinitely more beautiful in the garden of the soul—than the rose can in the gardens of earth. He takes the first place as the fairest among ten thousand. He is the sun—and all others are the stars; the heavens and the day are dark—in comparison with Him, for the King in His beauty transcends all.

"I am the Rose of Sharon." This was the best and rarest of roses. Jesus is not "the rose" alone, He is "the Rose of Sharon." Just as He calls His righteousness "gold," and then adds, "the gold of Ophir" that is—the best of the best. He is positively lovely, and superlatively the loveliest.

There is variety in His charms. The rose is delightful to the eye, and its scent is pleasant and refreshing; so each of the senses of the soul, whether it be the taste or feeling, the hearing, the sight, or the spiritual smell—finds appropriate gratification in Jesus. Even the recollection of His love is sweet. Take the rose of Sharon, and pull it leaf from leaf, and lay the leaves in the jar of memory, and you shall find each leaf fragrant long afterwards, filling the house with perfume.

Christ satisfies the highest taste of the most educated spirit to the very full. The greatest amateur in perfumes is quite satisfied with the rose—and when the soul has arrived at her highest pitch of true taste, she shall still be content with Christ; nay, she shall be the better able to appreciate Him. Heaven itself possesses nothing which excels the Rose of Sharon. What emblem can fully set forth His beauty? Human speech and earth-born things, fail to describe Him. Earth's choicest charms added together, feebly picture His abounding preciousness. Blessed Rose, bloom in my heart forever!

 

May 2 — Morning

"I do not pray that You would take them out of the world." John 17:15

It is a sweet and blessed event which will occur to all believers in God's own time—the going home to be with Jesus. In a few more years the Lord's soldiers, who are now fighting "the good fight of faith" will be done with conflict, and have entered into the joy of their Lord. But although Christ prays that His people may eventually be with Him where He is, He does not ask that they may be taken at once away from this world to heaven. He wishes them to stay here.

Yet how frequently does the wearied pilgrim put up the prayer, "O that I had wings like a dove! For then would I fly away and be at rest!" But Christ does not pray like that, He leaves us in His Father's hands, until, like shocks of corn fully ripe—we shall each be gathered into our Master's garner. Jesus does not plead for our instant removal by death—for to abide in this world is needful for others—if not profitable for ourselves. He asks that we may be kept from evil—but He never asks for us to be admitted to the inheritance in glory—until we are fully matured.

Christians often want to die when they have any trouble. Ask them why, and they tell you, "Because we would be with the Lord." We fear it is not so much because they are longing to be with the Lord—as because they desire to get rid of their troubles; else they would feel the same wish to die at other times when not under the pressure of trial. They want to go home, not so much for the Savior's company—as to be at rest. Now it is quite right to desire to depart—if we can do it in the same spirit that Paul did, because to be with Christ is far better—but the wish to escape from trouble is a selfish one. Rather let your care and wish be to glorify God by your life here as long as He pleases, even though it be in the midst of toil, and conflict, and suffering, and leave Him to say when "it is enough."

 

May 2 — Evening

"These all died in faith." Hebrews 11:13

Behold the epitaph of all those blessed saints who fell asleep before the coming of our Lord! It matters nothing how they died, whether of old age, or by violent means; this one point, in which they all agree, is the most worthy of record, "they all died in faith." In faith they lived—it was their comfort, their guide, their motive and their support; and in the same spiritual grace they died, ending their life-song in the sweet strain in which they had so long continued. They did not die resting in the flesh or upon their own attainments; they made no advance from their first way of acceptance with God—but held to the way of faith to the end. Faith is as precious to die by—as to live by.

Dying in faith has distinct reference to the past. They believed the promises which had gone before, and were assured that their sins were blotted out through the mercy of God.

Dying in faith has to do with the present. These saints were confident of their acceptance with God, they enjoyed the beams of His love, and rested in His faithfulness.

Dying in faith looks into the future. They fell asleep, affirming that the Messiah would surely come, and that when He would in the last days appear upon the earth, they would rise from their graves to behold Him.

To them the pains of death were but the birth-pangs of a better state. Take courage, my soul, as you read this epitaph. Your course, through grace, is one of faith—and sight seldom cheers you; this has also been the pathway of the brightest and the best. Faith was the orbit in which these stars of the first magnitude moved all the time of their shining here; and happy are you that it is yours. Look anew tonight to Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith, and thank Him for giving you like precious faith with souls now in glory.

 

May 3 — Morning

"In this world you will have trouble." John 16:33

Are you asking the reason for this, believer?

Look upward to your heavenly Father, and behold Him pure and holy. Do you know that you are one day to be like Him? Will you easily be conformed to His image? Do you not require much refining in the furnace of affliction to purify you? Will it be an easy thing to get rid of your corruptions, and make you as perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect?

Next, Christian, turn your eye downward. Do you know what foes you have beneath your feet? You were once a servant of Satan—and no king will willingly lose his subjects. Do you think that Satan will let you alone? No, he will be always at you, for he "goes about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour." Expect trouble, therefore, Christian, when you look beneath you.

Then look around you. Where are you? You are in an enemy's country, a stranger and a sojourner. The world is not your friend. If it is—then you are not God's friend, for he who is the friend of the world—is the enemy of God. Be assured that you shall find foe-men everywhere. When you sleep, contemplate that you are resting on the battlefield; when you walk, suspect an ambush in every hedge. As mosquitoes are said to bite strangers more than natives, so will the trials of earth be sharpest to you.

Lastly, look within you, into your own heart—and observe what is there. SIN and SELF are still within! Ah! if you had no devil to tempt you, no enemies to fight you, and no world to ensnare you, you would still find in yourself evil enough to be a sore trouble to you, for "the heart is deceitful above all things—and desperately wicked."

Expect trouble then—but despond not on account of it, for God is with you to help and to strengthen you. He has said, "I will be with you in trouble; I will deliver you and honor you."

 

May 3 — Evening

"A very present help in times of trouble." Psalm 46:1

Covenant blessings are not meant to be looked at only—but to be appropriated. Even our Lord Jesus is given to us for our present use. Believer, you do not make use of Christ—as you ought to do. When you are in trouble, why do you not tell Him all your grief? Has He not a sympathizing heart, and can He not comfort and relieve you? But no—you are going about to all your friends—except your best Friend, and telling your tale everywhere, except into the bosom of your Lord.

Are you burdened with this day's sins? Here is a fountain filled with blood—use it, saint, use it! Has a sense of guilt returned upon you? The pardoning grace of Jesus may be used again and again. Come to Him at once for cleansing! Do you deplore your weakness? He is your strength—why not lean upon Him? Do you feel naked? Come here, soul—put on the robe of Jesus' righteousness. Do not stand looking at it—but wear it. Strip off your own righteousness, and your own fears too—put on the fair white linen, for it was meant to wear.

Do you feel yourself sick? Pull the night-bell of prayer, and call up the Beloved Physician! He will give the cordial that will revive you. You are poor—but then you have "a kinsman, a mighty man of wealth." What! will you not go to Him, and ask Him to give you of His abundance, when He has given you this promise, that you shall be joint heir with Him, and has made over all that He is and all that He has—to be your? There is nothing Christ dislikes more—than for His people to make a show-thing of Him, and not to use Him. He loves to be employed by us. The more burdens we put on His shoulders—the more precious will He be to us.

 

May 4 — Morning

"Do men make their own gods? Yes—but they are not gods!" Jeremiah 16:20

One great besetting sin of ancient Israel was idolatry, and we who are the spiritual Israel are vexed with a tendency to the same folly! We no longer bow down to sticks and stones—but Mammon still intrudes his golden calf, and the shrines of pride are not forsaken. SELF in various forms, struggles to subdue the chosen ones under its dominion, and the flesh sets up its altars wherever it can find space for them.

Children are often the cause of much sin in believers; the Lord is grieved when He sees us doting upon them above measure; they will live to be as great a curse to us—as Absalom was to David, or they will be taken from us to leave our homes desolate. If Christians desire to grow thorns to stuff their sleepless pillows—let them dote on their children!

It is truly said that "they are not gods," for the objects of our foolish devotion are very doubtful blessings, the solace which they yield us now is dangerous, and the help which they can give us in the hour of trouble is little indeed.

Why, then, are we so bewitched with vanities? We pity the poor heathen who adore a god of stone—and yet worship a god of gold! Where is the vast superiority between a god of flesh—and one of wood? The principle, the sin, the folly is the same in either case, only that in our case—the crime is more aggravated because we have more light—and sin in the face of it. The heathen bows to a false deity—but the true God he has never known; we commit two evils, inasmuch as we forsake the living God—and turn unto idols. May the Lord purge us all from this grievous iniquity!

"The dearest idol I have known,
 Whatever that idol be;
 Help me to tear it from Thy throne,
 And worship only Thee!"

 

May 4 — Evening

"For you have been born again, not of perishable seed, but of imperishable." 1 Peter 1:23

Peter most earnestly exhorted the scattered saints to love each other "with a pure heart fervently" and he wisely fetched his argument, not from the law, from nature, or from philosophy—but from that high and divine nature which God has implanted in His people. Just as some judicious tutor of princes might labor to beget and foster in them a kingly spirit and dignified behavior, finding arguments in their position and descent—so, looking upon God's people as heirs of glory, princes of the blood royal, descendants of the King of kings, earth's truest and oldest aristocracy, Peter says to them, "See that you love one another, because of your noble birth, being born of incorruptible seed; because of your pedigree, being descended from God, the Creator of all things; and because of your immortal destiny, for you shall never pass away, though the glory of the flesh shall fade, and even its existence shall cease."

It would be well if, in the spirit of humility, we recognized the true dignity of our regenerated nature, and lived up to it. What is a Christian? If you compare him with a king, he adds priestly sanctity to royal dignity. The king's royalty often lies only in his crown—but with a Christian it is infused into his inmost nature. He is as much above his fellows through his new birth, as a man is above the beast that perishes. Surely he ought to carry himself, in all his dealings, as one who is not of the multitude—but chosen out of the world, distinguished by sovereign grace, written among "a people belonging to God" and who therefore cannot grovel in the dust as others, nor live after the manner of the world's citizens. Let the dignity of your nature, and the brightness of your prospects, O believers in Christ, constrain you to cleave unto holiness, and to avoid the very appearance of evil.

 

May 5 — Morning

"I will be their God—and they shall be My people." 2 Corinthians 6:16

What a sweet title, "My people!" What a cheering revelation: "Their God!" How much of meaning is couched in those two words, "My people!"

Here is speciality. The whole world is God's—the heaven, even the heaven of heavens is the Lord's, and He reigns among the children of men. But of those whom He has chosen, whom He has purchased to Himself, He calls them especially, "My people".

In this word there is the idea of proprietorship. In a special manner the "Lord's portion is His people; Jacob is the lot of His inheritance." All the nations upon earth are His; the whole world is in His power; yet are His people, His chosen people, more especially His possession; for He has done more for them than others; He has bought them with His blood; He has brought them near to Himself; He has set His great heart upon them; He has loved them with an everlasting love, a love which many waters cannot quench, and which the revolutions of time shall never suffice in the least degree to diminish.

Dear friends, can you, by faith, see yourselves in that number? Can you look up to heaven and say, "My Lord and my God—mine by that sweet relationship which entitles me to call You Father—mine by that hallowed fellowship which I delight to hold with You when You are pleased to manifest Yourself unto me as You do not unto the world?"

Can you read the Book of Inspiration, and find there the evidences of your salvation? Can you read your title written in precious blood? Can you, by humble faith, lay hold of Jesus' garments, and say, "My Christ"? If you can, then God says of you, and of others like you, "My people;" for, if God is your God, and Christ is your Christ, the Lord has shown special, peculiar grace to you—you are the object of His choice, accepted in His beloved Son!

 

May 5 — Evening

"He who handles a matter wisely shall find good; and whoever trusts in the Lord—happy is he." Proverbs 16:20

Wisdom is man's true strength; and, under its guidance, he best accomplishes the ends of his being. Wisely handling the matter of life gives to man the richest enjoyment, and presents the noblest occupation for his powers; hence by it he finds good in the fullest sense. Without wisdom, man is as the wild donkey's colt, running hither and thither, wasting strength which might be profitably employed. Wisdom is the compass by which man is to steer across the trackless ocean of life; without it he is a abandoned vessel, the sport of winds and waves.

A man must be prudent in such a world as this, or he will find no good—but be betrayed into unnumbered ills. The pilgrim will sorely wound his feet among the briers of the forest of life—if he does not pick his steps with the utmost caution. He who is in a wilderness infested with robber bands, must handle matters wisely if he would journey safely. If, trained by the Great Teacher, we follow where He leads, we shall find good, even while in this dark abode. There are celestial fruits to be gathered this side of Eden's bowers, and songs of paradise to be sung amid the groves of earth.

But where shall this wisdom be found? Many have dreamed of it—but have not possessed it. Where shall we learn it? Let us listen to the voice of the Lord, for He has declared the secret. He has revealed to men wherein true wisdom lies, and we have it in the text, "Whoever trusts in the Lord—happy is he." The true way to handle a matter wisely—is to trust in the Lord. This is the sure clue to the most intricate labyrinths of life—follow it and find eternal bliss. He who trusts in the Lord has a diploma for wisdom granted by inspiration: happy is he now, and happier shall he be above. Lord, in this sweet eventide—walk with me in the garden, and teach me the wisdom of faith.

 

May 6 — Morning

"We dwell in Him." 1 John 4:13

Do you need a house for your soul? Do you ask, "What is the purchase price?" It is something less than proud human nature will like to give. It is without money and without price. Ah! 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 ground-rent of loving and serving Him forever? Will you take Jesus and "dwell in Him?"

See, this house is furnished with all you desire—it is filled with riches more than you will spend as long as you live. Here you can have intimate communion with Christ and feast on His love. Here are tables well-stored with food for you to live on forever! In it, when weary, you can find rest with Jesus; and from it you can look out and see heaven itself.

Will you have the house? Ah! if you are houseless, you will say, "I would 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 shabby 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, Christ will make you good enough for the house by-and-by. He will wash you and cleanse you, and you will yet be able to sing, "We dwell in Him."

Believer! thrice happy are you to have such a dwelling-place! Greatly privileged you are, 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."

 

May 6 — Evening

"All the days of my appointed time will I wait." Job 14:14

A little stay on earth—will make heaven more heavenly. Nothing makes rest so sweet as toil; nothing renders security so pleasant as exposure to alarms. The bitter cups of earthly sorrow—will give a relish to the new wine which sparkles in the golden bowls of glory. Our battered armor and scarred countenances, will render more illustrious our victory above, when we are welcomed to the seats of those who have overcome the world.

We would not have full fellowship with Christ if we did not for awhile sojourn below, for He was baptized with a baptism of suffering among men, and we must be baptized with the same if we would share his kingdom. Fellowship with Christ is so honorable that the sorest sorrow is a light price by which to procure it.

Another reason for our lingering here is for the good of others. We would not wish to enter heaven until our work is done—and it may be that we are yet ordained to minister light—to benighted souls in the wilderness of sin. Our prolonged stay here is doubtless for God's glory. A tried saint, like a well-cut diamond, glitters much in the King's crown. Nothing reflects so much honor on a workman—as a protracted and severe trial of his work, and its triumphant endurance of the ordeal without giving way in any part. We are God's workmanship, in whom He will be glorified by our afflictions. It is for the honor of Jesus that we endure the trial of our faith with sacred joy. Let each man surrender his own longings to the glory of Jesus, and feel, "If my lying in the dust would elevate my Lord by so much as an inch—let me still lie among the pots of earth. If to live on earth forever, would make my Lord more glorious, it would be my heaven to be shut out of heaven."

Our time on earth is fixed and settled by eternal decree. Let us not be anxious about it—but wait with patience until the gates of pearl shall open!

 

May 7 — Morning

"Great multitudes followed Him—and He healed them all." Matthew 12:15

What a mass of hideous sickness must have thrust itself under the eye of Jesus! Yet we do not read that He was disgusted—but patiently waited on every case. What a striking variety of diseases must have met at His feet! What sickening ulcers and putrefying sores! Yet He was ready for every new shape of the monster evil, and was victor over it in every form. Let the arrow fly from what quarter it might, He quenched its fiery power. The heat of fever, or the cold of dropsy; the lethargy of palsy, or the rage of madness; the filth of leprosy, or the darkness of blindness—all knew the power of His Word, and fled at His command. In every corner of the field He was triumphant over evil, and received the homage of delivered captives. He came, He saw, He conquered everywhere.

It is even so this morning. Whatever my own case may be—the beloved Physician can heal me. And whatever may be the state of others whom I may remember at this moment in prayer, I may have hope in Jesus that He will be able to heal them of their sins.

My child, my friend, my dearest one, I can have hope for each, for all, when I remember the healing power of my Lord; and on my own account, however severe my struggle with sins and infirmities, I may yet be of good cheer. He who on earth walked the hospitals, still dispenses His grace, and works wonders among the sons of men—let me go to Him at once in right earnest. Let me praise Him, this morning, as I remember how He wrought His spiritual cures, which bring Him most renown. It was by taking upon Himself our sicknesses. "By His stripes we are healed." The Church on earth is full of souls healed by our beloved Physician; and the inhabitants of heaven itself confess that "He healed them all." Come, then, my soul, publish abroad the virtue of His grace, and let it be "to the Lord for a name, for an everlasting sign which shall not be cut off."

 

May 7 — Evening

"Jesus said unto him—Rise, take up your bed, and walk!" John 5:8

Like many others, the impotent man had been waiting for a miracle to be wrought, and a sign to be given. Wearily did he watch the pool—but no angel came—or came not for him. Yet, thinking it to be his only chance, he waited still, and knew not that there was One near him whose word could heal him in a moment.

Many are in the same plight—they are waiting for some singular emotion, remarkable impression, or celestial vision; they wait in vain and watch for nothing. Even supposing that, in a few cases, remarkable signs are seen—yet these are rare, and no man has a right to look for them in his own case.

It is a very sad reflection that tens of thousands are now waiting in the use of means, and ordinances, and vows, and resolutions, and have so waited in vain, utterly in vain. Meanwhile these poor souls forget the present Savior, who bids them look unto Him and be saved. He could heal them at once—but they prefer to wait for an angel and a miracle. To trust Him is the sure way to every blessing, and He is worthy of the most implicit confidence; but unbelief makes them prefer the cold porches of Bethesda—to the warm bosom of His love.

O that the Lord may turn His eye upon the multitudes who are in this case tonight; may He forgive the slights which they put upon His divine power, and call them by that sweet constraining voice, to rise from the bed of despair, and in the energy of faith take up their bed and walk. O Lord, hear our prayer for all such at this calm hour of sunset, and before the day breaks—may they look and live. Dear reader, is there anything in this portion for you?

 

May 8 — Morning

"The man who was healed had no idea who it was." John 5:13

Years are short to the happy and healthy; but thirty-eight years of disease must have dragged a very weary length along the life of the poor impotent man. When Jesus, therefore, healed him by a word, while he lay at the pool of Bethesda—he was delightfully sensible of a change. Even so the sinner who has for weeks and months been paralyzed with despair, and has wearily sighed for salvation—is very conscious of the change when the Lord Jesus speaks the word of power, and gives joy and peace in believing. The evil removed is too great to be removed without our discerning it; the life imparted is too remarkable to be possessed and remain inoperative; and the change wrought is too marvelous not to be perceived. Yet the poor man was ignorant of the author of his cure; he knew not the sacredness of His person, the offices which he sustained, or the errand which brought Him among men.

Just so, much ignorance of Jesus may remain in hearts which yet feel the power of His blood. We must not hastily condemn men for lack of knowledge; but where we can see the faith which saves the soul, we must believe that salvation has been bestowed. The Holy Spirit makes men penitents—long before He makes them theologians; and he who believes what he knows, shall soon know more clearly what he believes. Ignorance is, however, an evil; for this poor man was much questioned by the Pharisees, and was quite unable to cope with them. It is good to be able to answer gainsayers; but we cannot do so if we don't know the Lord Jesus clearly, and with understanding. The cure of his ignorance, however, soon followed the cure of his infirmity, for he was visited by the Lord in the temple; and after that gracious manifestation, he was found testifying that "it was Jesus who had made him whole." Lord, if You have saved me, show me Yourself, that I may declare You to others.

 

May 8 — Evening

"Acquaint yourself with Him—and be at peace." Job 22:21

If we would rightly "acquaint ourselves with God—and be at peace," we must know Him—as He has revealed Himself. Let no man be content until he knows something of the God from whom his being was derived.

Endeavor to know the Father; bury your head in His bosom in deep repentance, and confess that you are not worthy to be called His son; receive the kiss of His love; let the ring which is the token of His eternal faithfulness be on your finger; sit at His table and let your heart make merry in His grace.

Then press forward and seek to know much of the Son of God who is the brightness of His Father's glory, and yet in unspeakable condescension of grace, became man for our sakes; know Him in the singular complexity of His nature: eternal God—and yet suffering man; follow Him as He walks the waters with the tread of deity, and as He sits upon the well in the weariness of humanity. Do not be satisfied unless you know much of Jesus Christ as your Friend, your Brother, your Husband—your all.

Do not forget the Holy Spirit; endeavor to obtain a clear view of His nature and character, His attributes, and His works. Behold that Spirit of the Lord, who first of all moved upon chaos, and brought forth order; who now visits the chaos of your soul, and creates the order of holiness. Behold Him as the Lord and giver of spiritual life, the Illuminator, the Instructor, the Comforter, and the Sanctifier. Behold Him as, like holy unction, He descends upon the head of Jesus, and then afterwards rests upon you who are as the skirts of His garments.

Such an intelligent, scriptural, and experimental belief in the Trinity in Unity is yours if you truly know God; and such knowledge brings peace indeed.

 

May 9 — Morning

"Who has blessed us with all spiritual blessings." Ephesians 1:3

All the goodness of the past, the present, and the future—Christ bestows upon His people.

In the mysterious ages of the past, the Lord Jesus was His Father's first elect, and in His election—He gave us an interest, for we were chosen in Him from before the foundation of the world. He had from all eternity the prerogatives of Sonship, as His Father's only-begotten and well-beloved Son, and He has, in the riches of His grace, by adoption and regeneration, elevated us to sonship also, so that to us He has given "power to become the sons of God." The eternal covenant, based upon suretyship and confirmed by oath, is ours—for our strong consolation and security. In the everlasting settlements of predestinating wisdom and omnipotent decree—the eye of the Lord Jesus was ever fixed on us; and we may rest assured that in the whole roll of destiny—there is not a line which militates against the interests of His redeemed!

The great betrothal of the Prince of Glory is ours, for it is to us that He is affianced, as the sacred nuptials shall before long declare to an assembled universe. The marvelous incarnation of the God of heaven, with all the amazing condescension and humiliation which attended it—is ours. The bloody sweat, the scourge, the cross—are ours forever! Whatever blissful consequences flow from perfect obedience, finished atonement, resurrection, ascension, or intercession, all are ours by His own gift!

Upon His breastplate—He is now bearing our names; and in His authoritative pleadings at the throne—He remembers our persons and pleads our cause. His dominion over principalities and powers, and His absolute majesty in heaven—He employs for the benefit of those who trust in Him. His high estate is as much at our service—as was His condition of abasement. He who gave Himself for us in the depths of woe and death—does not withdraw the grant now that He is enthroned in the highest heavens!

 

May 9 — Evening

"Come, my Beloved, let us go forth into the field... let us see if the vines have flourished." Song of Solomon 7:11, 12

The church was about to engage in earnest labor, and desired her Lord's company in it. She does not say, "I will go," but "let us go." It is blessed working when Jesus is at our side! It is the business of God's people to be trimmers of God's vines. Like our first parents, we are put into the garden of the Lord for usefulness; let us therefore go forth into the field.

Observe that the church, when she is in her right mind, in all her many labors desires to enjoy communion with Christ. Some imagine that they cannot serve Christ actively, and yet have fellowship with Him—they are mistaken. Doubtless it is very easy to fritter away our inward life—in outward exercises, and come to complain with the spouse, "They made me keeper of the vineyards—but my own vineyard have I not kept!" But there is no reason why this should be the case—except our own folly and neglect.

Certain is it—that a professor may do nothing, and yet grow quite as lifeless in spiritual things as those who are most busy. Mary was not praised for sitting still; but for her sitting at Jesus' feet. Even so, Christians are not to be praised for neglecting duties—under the pretense of having secret fellowship with Jesus. It is not sitting—but sitting at Jesus' feet which is commendable. Do not think that activity is in itself an evil—it is a great blessing, and a means of grace to us. Paul called it a grace given to him to be allowed to preach—and every form of Christian service may become a personal blessing to those engaged in it. Those who have most fellowship with Christ—are not recluses or hermits, who have much time to spare—but indefatigable laborers who are toiling for Jesus, and who, in their toil, have Him side by side with them, so that they are workers together with God. Let us remember then, in anything we have to do for Jesus, that we can do it—and should do it in close communion with Him.

 

May 10 — Morning

"But now is Christ risen from the dead." 1 Corinthians 15:20

The whole system of Christianity rests upon the fact that "Christ is risen from the dead;" for, "if Christ is not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain—you are yet in your sins." The divinity of Christ finds its surest proof in His resurrection, since He was "Declared to be the Son of God with power, according to the spirit of holiness, by the resurrection from the dead." It would not be unreasonable to doubt His Deity—if He had not risen.

Moreover, Christ's sovereignty depends upon His resurrection, "For to this end Christ both died, and rose, and revived, that He might be Lord both of the dead and living."

Again, our justification, that choice blessing of the covenant, is linked with Christ's triumphant victory over death and the grave; for "He was delivered for our offences, and was raised again for our justification."

Nay, more, our very regeneration is connected with His resurrection, for we are "Begotten again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead."

And most certainly our ultimate resurrection rests here, for, "If the Spirit of Him who raised up Jesus from the dead dwells in you—He who raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by His Spirit that dwells in you." If Christ is not risen—then shall we not rise; but if He be risen—then they who are asleep in Christ have not perished—but in their flesh shall surely behold their God.

Thus, the silver thread of resurrection runs through all the believer's blessings, from his regeneration onwards to his eternal glory—and binds them together. How important then will this glorious fact be in his estimation, and how will he rejoice that beyond a doubt it is established, that "now is Christ risen from the dead!"

"The promise is fulfilled,
 Redemption's work is done,
 Justice with mercy's reconciled,
 For God has raised His Son!"

 

May 10 — Evening

"The only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth." John 1:14

Believer, you can bear your testimony that Christ is the only begotten of the Father, as well as the first begotten from the dead. You can say, "He is divine to me, if He is only human to all the world beside. He has done that for me—which none but a God could do! He has subdued my stubborn will, melted a heart of adamant, opened gates of brass, and snapped bars of iron! He has turned my mourning into laughter, and my desolation into joy; He has led my captivity captive, and made my heart rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory. Let others think as they will of Him—to me He must be the only begotten of the Father—blessed be His name.

And He is full of grace. Ah! had He not been—I would never have been saved. He drew me when I struggled to escape from His grace; and when at last I came all trembling like a condemned culprit to His mercy-seat He said, 'Your sins which are many—are all forgiven you—be of good cheer.'

And He is full of truth. True have His promises been, not one has failed. I bear witness that never any servant had such a master as I have; never any brother had such a kinsman as He has been to me; never any spouse had such a husband as Christ has been to my soul; never any sinner had a better Savior; never any mourner had a better comforter than Christ has been to my heart. I desire none beside Him. In life—He is my life; and in death—He shall be the death of death. In poverty—Christ is my riches. In sickness—He makes my bed. In darkness—He is my star. In brightness—He is my sun. He is my manna in this wilderness. He shall be heavenly manna when I come to the heavenly Canaan. Jesus is to me—all grace and no wrath, all truth and no falsehood. And of truth and grace He is full, infinitely full. My soul, this night, bless with all your might 'the only Begotten.'

 

May 11 — Morning

"I am with you always!" Matthew 28:20

It is well that there is One who is ever the same, and who is ever with us. It is well that there is one stable rock amidst the billows of the sea of life. O my soul, do not set your affections upon rusting, moth-eaten, decaying treasures—but set your heart upon Him who abides forever faithful to you. Do not build your house upon the moving quicksands of a deceitful world—but found your hopes upon this rock, which, amid descending rain and roaring floods, shall stand immovably secure!

My soul, I charge you—lay up your treasure in the only secure cabinet; store your jewels where you can never lose them. Put your all in Christ; set all your affections on His person, all your hope in His merit, all your trust in His efficacious blood, all your joy in His presence—and so you may laugh at loss, and defy destruction.

Remember that all the flowers in the world's garden wither and die—and the day comes when nothing will be left but the black, cold earth. Death's black extinguisher must soon put out your candle. Oh! how sweet to have sunlight—when the candle is gone! The dark flood must soon roll between you and all you have! So wed your heart to Him who will never leave you. Trust yourself with Him who will go with you through the black and surging current of death's stream, and who will land you safely on the celestial shore, and make you sit with Him in heavenly places forever.

Go, sorrowing son of affliction—tell your secret troubles to the Friend who sticks closer than a brother. Trust all your concerns with Him—who never can be taken from you, who will never leave you, and who will never let you leave Him, even "Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, and today, and forever." "I am with you always," is enough for my soul to live upon—though all others forsake me!

 

May 11 — Evening

"Only be strong and very courageous." Joshua 1:7

Our God's tender love for His servants makes Him concerned for the state of their inward feelings. He desires them to be of good courage. Some esteem it a small thing for a believer to be vexed with doubts and fears—but God does not think so. From this text, it is plain that our Master would not have us entangled with fears. He would have us without worry, without doubt, without cowardice. Our Master does not think so lightly of our unbelief as we do. When we are desponding we are subject to a grievous malady, not to be trifled with—but to be carried at once to the beloved Physician. Our Lord does not like to see our countenance sad.

It was a law of Ahasuerus that no one could come into the king's court dressed in mourning—this is not the law of the King of kings, for we may come mourning as we are; but still He would have us put off the garment of heaviness, and put on the garment of praise, for there is much reason to rejoice.

The Christian man ought to be of a courageous spirit, in order that he may glorify the Lord by enduring trials in an heroic manner. If he is fearful and fainthearted, it will dishonor his God. Besides, what a bad example it is! This disease of doubtfulness and discouragement is an epidemic which soon spreads among the Lord's flock. One downcast believer—makes twenty souls sad. Moreover, unless your courage is kept up—Satan will be too much for you. Let your spirit be joyful in God your Savior, the joy of the Lord shall be your strength, and no fiend of hell shall make headway against you—but cowardice throws down the banner.

Moreover, labor is light to a man of cheerful spirit; and success follows upon cheerfulness. The man who toils, rejoicing in his God, believing with all his heart—has success guaranteed. He who sows in hope—shall reap in joy. Therefore, dear reader, "be strong, and very courageous."

 

May 12 — Morning

"I will manifest Myself to him." John 14:21

The Lord Jesus gives special revelations of Himself to His people. Even if Scripture did not declare this, there are many of the children of God who could testify the truth of it—from their own experience. They have had manifestations of their Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in a special manner, such as no mere reading or hearing could afford. In the biographies of eminent saints, you will find many instances recorded in which Jesus has been pleased, in a very special manner—to speak to their souls, and to unfold the wonders of His person; yes, so have their souls been steeped in happiness that they have thought themselves to be in heaven, whereas they were not there, though they were well near on the threshold of it. For when Jesus manifests Himself to His people—it is heaven on earth; it is paradise in embryo; it is bliss begun!

These special manifestations of Christ, exercise a holy influence on the believer's heart.

One effect will be humility. If a man says, "I have had such-and-such spiritual communications, therefore I am a great man," he has never had any communion with Jesus at all; for "God has respect unto the lowly—but the proud He knows afar off." He does not need to come near them to know them, and will never give them any visits of love.

Another effect will be happiness; for in God's presence there are pleasures for evermore.

Holiness will be sure to follow. A man who has no holiness has never had this manifestation. Some men profess a great deal; but we must not believe anyone—unless we see that his deeds answer to what he says. "Do not be deceived; God is not mocked." He will not bestow His favors upon the wicked—for while He will not cast away a godly man, neither will He respect an evil doer. Thus there will be three effects of nearness to Jesus—humility, happiness, and holiness. May God give them to you, Christian!

 

May 12 — Evening

"Do not be afraid to go down to Egypt, for I will make you into a great nation there. I will go down to Egypt with you, and I will surely bring you back again." Genesis 46:3, 4

Jacob must have shuddered at the thought of leaving the land of his father's sojourning, and dwelling among heathen strangers. It was a new scene, and likely to be a trying one—who shall venture among foreigners without anxiety? Yet the way was evidently appointed for him, and therefore he resolved to go. This is frequently the position of believers now—they are called to perils and temptations altogether untried—at such seasons let them imitate Jacob's example by offering sacrifices of prayer unto God, and seeking His direction. Let them not take a step—until they have waited upon the Lord for His blessing—then they will have Jacob's companion to be their friend and helper.

How blessed to feel assured that the Lord is with us in all our ways, and condescends to go down into our humiliations and banishments with us! Even beyond the ocean our Father's love beams like the sun in its strength. We cannot hesitate to go where Jehovah promises His presence; even the valley of death grows bright with the radiance of this assurance.

Marching onwards with faith in their God, believers shall have Jacob's promise. They shall be brought up again, whether it be from the troubles of life or the chambers of death. Jacob's seed came out of Egypt in due time, and so shall all the faithful pass unscathed through the tribulation of life, and the terror of death. Let us exercise Jacob's confidence.

"Fear not," is the Lord's command and His divine encouragement to those who at His bidding are launching upon new seas! His divine presence and preservation forbid so much as one unbelieving fear. Without our God—we should fear to move; but when He bids us to, it would be dangerous to tarry. Reader, go forward, and fear not!

 

May 13 — Morning

"Weeping may endure for a night—but joy comes in the morning." Psalm 30:5

Christian! If you are in a night of trial, think of the morrow; cheer up your heart with the thought of the coming of your Lord. Be patient, for "Lo! He comes with clouds!" Be patient! The Gardener waits until He reaps His harvest. Be patient; for you know who has said, "Behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give to every man according as his work shall be."

If you are ever so wretched now, remember "A few more rolling suns, at most—will land you on fair Canaan's coast." Your head may be crowned with thorny troubles now—but it shall wear a starry crown before long. Your hand may be filled with cares—it shall sweep the strings of the harp of heaven soon. Your garments may be soiled with dust now—they shall be snow-white by-and-by. Wait a little longer.

Ah! how despicable our troubles and trials will seem—when we look back upon them! Looking at them here in the prospect, they seem immense; but when we get to heaven we shall then "With transporting joys recount—the labors of our feet." Our trials will then seem light and momentary afflictions. Let us go on boldly; if the night is ever so dark—the morning comes; which is more than they can say—who are shut up in the darkness of hell. Do you know what it is thus to live on the future—to live on expectation—to antedate heaven? Happy believer, to have so sure, so comforting a hope. It may be all dark now—but it will soon be light. It may be all trial now—but it will soon be all happiness. What does it matter, though "weeping may endure for a night"—when "joy comes in the morning?"

 

May 13 — Evening

"You are my portion, O Lord." Psalm 119:57

Look at your possessions, O believer—and compare your portion with the lot of your fellow men.

Some of them have their portion in the field; they are rich, and their harvests yield them a golden increase; but what are harvests compared with your God, who is the God of harvests? What are bursting granaries compared with Him, who is the Gardener, and feeds you with the bread of heaven?

Some have their portion in the city; their wealth is abundant, and flows to them in constant streams, until they become a very reservoir of gold; but what is gold compared with your God? You could not live on it; your spiritual life could not be sustained by it. Put it on a troubled conscience—and could it allay its pangs? Apply it to a desponding heart—and see if it could relieve a solitary groan, or give one grief the less? But you have God, and in Him you have more than gold or riches ever could buy.

Some have their portion in that which most men love—applause and fame; but ask yourself, is not your God more to you than that? What if a myriad clarions should be loud in your applause, would this prepare you to pass the Jordan, or cheer you in prospect of judgment? No! there are griefs in life which wealth cannot alleviate; and there is the deep need of a dying hour, for which no riches can provide.

But when you have God for your portion, you have more than all else put together. In Him every need is met, whether in life or in death. With God for your portion you are rich indeed, for He will supply your needs, comfort your heart, assuage your grief, guide your steps, be with you in the dark valley—and then take you home, to enjoy Him as your portion forever! "I have enough," said Esau; this is the best thing a worldly man can say—but Jacob replies, "I have all things," which is a note too high for carnal minds.

 

May 14 — Morning

"Joint heirs with Christ." Romans 8:17

The boundless realms of His Father's universe—are Christ's by prescriptive right. As "heir of all things," He is the sole proprietor of the vast creation of God, and He has admitted us to claim the whole as ours, by virtue of that deed of joint-heir-ship which the Lord has ratified with His chosen people. The golden streets of paradise, the pearly gates, the river of life, the transcendent bliss, and the unutterable glory, are, by our blessed Lord—made over to us for our everlasting possession!

All that He has—He shares with His people! The crown royal He has placed upon the head of His Church, appointing her a kingdom, and calling her sons a royal priesthood, a generation of priests and kings. He uncrowned Himself—that we might have a coronation of glory; He would not sit upon His own throne—until He had procured a place upon it for all who overcome by His blood. Crown the head—and the whole body shares the honor. Behold here the reward of every Christian conqueror! Christ's throne, crown, scepter, palace, treasure, robes, heritage—are yours! Far superior to the jealousy, selfishness, and greed, which admit of no participation of their advantages, Christ deems His happiness completed by His people sharing it. "The glory which you gave me—I have given them." "These things have I spoken unto you—that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full." The smiles of His Father are all the sweeter to Him—because His people share them. The honors of His kingdom are more pleasing—because His people appear with Him in glory. More valuable to Him are His conquests—since they have taught His people to overcome. He delights in His throne—because on it there is a place for them. He rejoices in His royal robes—since over them His skirts are spread. He delights the more in His joy—because He calls them to enter into it.

 

May 14 — Evening

"He will carry the lambs in His bosom, holding them close to His heart." Isaiah 40:11

Who is He of whom such gracious words are spoken? He is the Good Shepherd. Why does He carry the lambs in His bosom? Because He has a tender heart, and any weakness at once melts His heart. The sighs, the ignorance, the feebleness of the little ones of His flock—draw forth His compassion. It is His office, as a faithful High Priest, to consider the weak. Besides, He purchased them with blood, they are His property—He must and will care for that which cost Him so dear.

He is also responsible for each lamb, bound by covenant engagements not to lose one. Moreover, they are all a part of His glory and reward. But how may we understand the expression, "He will carry them"? Sometimes He carries them by not permitting them to endure much trial. Providence deals tenderly with them. Often they are "carried" by being filled with an unusual degree of love—so that they bear up and stand fast. Though their knowledge may not be deep—they have great sweetness in what they do know. Frequently He "carries" them by giving them a very simple faith—which takes the promise just as it stands, and believingly runs with every trouble straight to Jesus. The simplicity of their faith gives them an unusual degree of confidence, which carries them above the world.

"He will carry the lambs in His bosom." Here is boundless affection. Would He put them in His bosom—if He did not love them much? Here is tender nearness—so near are they, that they could not possibly be nearer. Here is hallowed familiarity—there are precious love-passages between Christ and His weak ones. Here is perfect safety—in His bosom, who can hurt them? They must hurt the Shepherd first. Here is perfect rest and sweetest comfort. Surely we are not sufficiently sensible of the infinite tenderness of Jesus!

 

May 15 — Morning

"All who believe are justified." Acts 13:39

The believer in Christ receives a present justification. Faith does not produce this fruit by-and-by, but now. So far as justification is the result of faith, it is given to the soul in the moment when it closes with Christ, and accepts Him as its all in all. Are those who stand before the throne of God justified now? So are we, as truly and as clearly justified as those who walk in white and sing melodious praises to celestial harps. The thief upon the cross was justified the moment that he turned the eye of faith to Jesus; and Paul, the aged, after years of service, was not more justified than was that thief with no service at all.

We are today accepted in the Beloved, today absolved from sin, today acquitted at the bar of God. Oh! soul-transporting thought! There are some clusters of Eshcol's vine, which we shall not be able to gather until we enter heaven; but this is a bough which runs over the wall. This is not as the grain of the land, which we can never eat until we cross the Jordan; but this is part of the manna in the wilderness, a portion of our daily nutriment with which God supplies us in our journeying to and fro. We are now—even now pardoned; even now are our sins put away; even now we stand in the sight of God accepted—as though we had never been guilty. "There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus."

There is not a sin in the Book of God, even now, against one of His people. Who dares to lay anything to their charge? There is neither speck, nor spot, nor wrinkle, nor any such thing remaining upon any one believer in the matter of justification in the sight of the Judge of all the earth. Let present privilege awaken us to present duty, and now, while life lasts, let us spend and be spent for our sweet Lord Jesus.

 

May 15 — Evening

"Made perfect." Hebrews 12:23

Recollect that there are two kinds of perfection which the Christian needs—the perfection of justification in the person of Jesus, and the perfection of sanctification wrought in him by the Holy Spirit. At present, corruption yet remains even in the hearts of the regenerate; experience soon teaches us this. Within us are still lusts and evil imaginations. But I rejoice to know that the day is coming when God shall finish the work which He has begun; and He shall present my soul, not only perfect in Christ—but perfect through the Spirit, without spot or blemish, or any such thing.

Can it be true that this poor sinful heart of mine is to become holy—even as God is holy? Can it be that this spirit, which often cries, "O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this sin and death?" shall get rid of sin and death—that I shall have no evil things to vex my ears, and no unholy thoughts to disturb my peace? Oh, happy hour! may it be hastened!

When I cross the Jordan, the work of sanctification will be finished; but not until that moment—shall I even claim perfection in myself. Then my spirit shall have its last baptism in the Holy Spirit's fire. Methinks I long to die—to receive that last and final purification which shall usher me into heaven. Not an angel shall be more pure than I, for I shall be able to say, in a double sense, "I am clean," through Jesus' blood, and through the Spirit's work.

Oh, how should we extol the power of the Holy Spirit in thus making us fit to stand before our Father in heaven! Yet let not the hope of perfection hereafter, make us content with imperfection now. If it does this—our hope cannot be genuine; for a good hope is a purifying thing, even now. The work of grace must be abiding in us now or it cannot be perfected then. Let us pray to "be filled with the Spirit," that we may bring forth increasingly the fruits of righteousness.

 

May 16 — Morning

"Who gives us richly all things to enjoy." 1 Timothy 6:17

Our Lord Jesus is ever giving—and does not for a solitary instant withdraw His hand. As long as there is a vessel of grace not yet full to the brim—the oil shall not be stopped. He is a sun ever-shining; He is manna always falling round the camp; He is a rock in the desert, ever sending out streams of life from His smitten side; the rain of His grace is always dropping; the river of His bounty is ever-flowing, and the well-spring of His love is constantly overflowing. As the King can never die—so His grace can never fail. Daily we pluck His fruit, and daily His branches bend down to our hand with a fresh store of mercy.

There are seven feast-days in His weeks, and as many as are the days, so many are the banquets in His years. Who has ever returned from His door, unblessed? Who has ever risen from His table unsatisfied; or from His bosom un-imparadised? His mercies are new every morning—and fresh every evening.

Who can know the number of His benefits, or recount the list of His bounties? Every sand which drops from the glass of time—is but the tardy follower of a myriad of mercies. The wings of our hours are covered with the silver of His kindness, and with the yellow gold of His affection. The river of time bears from the mountains of eternity—the golden sands of His favor. The countless stars are but as the standard-bearers of a more innumerable multitude of blessings. Who can count the dust of the benefits which He bestows on Jacob, or tell the number of the fourth part of His mercies towards Israel? How shall my soul extol Him—who daily loads us with benefits, and who crowns us with loving-kindness? O that my praise could be as ceaseless as His bounty! O miserable tongue, how can you be silent? Wake up, I beg you, lest I call you no more my glory—but my shame. "Awake, psaltery and harp—I myself will awake right early!"

 

May 16 — Evening

"This is what the Lord says: Make this valley full of ditches. For you will see neither wind nor rain, yet this valley will be filled with water, and you, your cattle and your other animals will drink." 2 Kings 3:16,17

The armies of the three kings were famishing for lack of water—God was about to send it, and in these words the prophet announced the coming blessing. Here was a case of human helplessness—not a drop of water could all the valiant men procure from the skies or find in the wells of earth. Thus often the people of the Lord are at their wits' end; they see the vanity of the creature, and learn experimentally where their help is to be found.

Still the people were to make a believing preparation for the divine blessing; they were to dig the ditches in which the precious liquid would be held. The church must by her varied agencies, efforts, and prayers, make herself ready to be blessed; she must make the ditches, and the Lord will fill them. This must be done in faith, in the full assurance that the blessing is about to descend.

By-and-by there was a singular bestowal of the needed blessing. Not as in Elijah's case, did the shower pour from the clouds—but in a silent and mysterious manner the ditches were filled. The Lord has His own sovereign modes of action—He is not tied to any manner and time, as we are—but does as He pleases among men. It is ours thankfully to receive from Him, and not to dictate to Him.

We must also notice the remarkable abundance of the supply—there was enough for the need of all. And so it is in the gospel blessing; all the needs of the congregation and of the entire church shall be met by the divine power in answer to prayer; and above all this, victory shall be speedily given to the armies of the Lord. What am I doing for Jesus? What trenches am I digging? O Lord, make me ready to receive the blessing which You are so willing to bestow.

 

May 17 — Morning

"So walk—even as Jesus walked." 1 John 2:6

Why should Christians imitate Christ?

They should do it for their own sakes. If they desire to be in a healthy state of soul—if they would escape the sickness of sin, and enjoy the vigor of growing grace—let Jesus be their model. For their own happiness' sake, if they would drink wine on the lees, well refined; if they would enjoy holy and happy communion with Jesus; if they would be lifted up above the cares and troubles of this world—let them walk even as Jesus walked. There is nothing which can so assist you to walk towards heaven with good speed, as wearing the image of Jesus on your heart to rule all its motions. It is when, by the power of the Holy Spirit, you are enabled to walk with Jesus in His very footsteps, that you are most happy, and most known to be the sons of God. Peter afar off—is both unsafe and uneasy.

Next, for religion's sake, strive to be like Jesus. Ah! poor religion, you have been sorely shot at by cruel foes—but you have not been wounded one-half so dangerously by your foes—as by your friends. Who made those wounds in the fair hand of godliness? The professor who used the dagger of hypocrisy. The man who with pretenses, enters the fold, being nothing but a wolf in sheep's clothing, worries the flock more than the lion outside. There is no weapon half so deadly—as a Judas-kiss. Inconsistent professors injure the gospel more than the sneering critic or the infidel.

But, especially for Christ's own sake, imitate His example. Christian, love you your Savior? Is His name precious to you? Is His cause dear to you? Would you see the kingdoms of the world become His? Is it your desire that He should be glorified? Are you longing that souls should be won to Him? If so, imitate Jesus—be an "epistle of Christ, known and read of all men."

 

May 17 — Evening

"You are My servant; I have chosen you." Isaiah 41:9

If we have received the grace of God in our hearts, its practical effect has been to make us God's servants. We may be unfaithful servants, we certainly are unprofitable ones—but yet, blessed be His name, we are His servants, wearing His livery, feeding at His table, and obeying His commands.

We were once the servants of sin—but He who made us free—has now taken us into His family and taught us obedience to His will. We do not serve our Master perfectly—but we would if we could. As we hear God's voice saying unto us, "You are My servant," we can answer with David, "I am your servant—You have loosed my bonds."

But the Lord calls us not only His servants—but His chosen ones, "I have chosen you." We have not chosen Him first—but He has chosen us. If we be God's servants, we were not always so; to sovereign grace the change must be ascribed. The eye of sovereignty singled us out, and the voice of unchanging grace declared, "I have loved you with an everlasting love." Long before time began or space was created—God had written upon His heart, the names of His elect people, had predestinated them to be conformed unto the image of His Son, and ordained them heirs of all the fullness of His love, His grace, and His glory.

What comfort is here! Has the Lord loved us so long—and will He yet cast us away? He knew how stiff-necked we would be, He understood that our hearts were evil—and yet He made the choice! Ah! our Savior is no fickle lover. He does not feel enchanted for a while with some gleams of beauty from His church's eye—and then afterwards cast her off because of her unfaithfulness. No! He married her in old eternity; and it is written of Jehovah, "He hates divorce." The eternal choice is a bond upon our gratitude, and upon His faithfulness.

 

May 18 — Morning

"In Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. And you are complete in Him." Colossians 2:9, 10

All the attributes of Christ, as God and man, are at our disposal. All the fullness of the Godhead, whatever that marvelous term may comprehend, is ours to make us complete. He cannot endow us with the attributes of Deity; but He has done all that can be done, for He has made even His divine power and Godhead subservient to our salvation. His omnipotence, omniscience, omnipresence, immutability and infallibility, are all combined for our defense. Arise, believer, and behold the Lord Jesus yoking the whole of His divine Godhead—to the chariot of salvation! How vast His grace, how firm His faithfulness, how unswerving His immutability, how infinite His power, how limitless His knowledge! All these are by the Lord Jesus made the pillars of the temple of salvation; and all, without diminution of their infinity, are covenanted to us as our perpetual inheritance.

Every drop of the fathomless love of the Savior's heart is ours; every sinew in the arm of might, every jewel in the crown of majesty—the immensity of divine knowledge, and the sternness of divine justice—all are ours, and shall be employed for us. The whole of Christ, in His adorable character as the Son of God, is by Himself made over to us most richly to enjoy. His wisdom is our direction, His knowledge is our instruction, His power is our protection, His justice is our surety, His love is our comfort, His mercy is our solace, and His immutability is our trust. He makes no reserve—but opens the recesses of the Mount of God—and bids us dig in its mines for the hidden treasures. "All, all, all are yours," says He. Oh! how sweet thus to behold Jesus, and to call upon Him with the certain confidence that in seeking the interposition of His love or power—we are but asking for that which He has already faithfully promised.

 

May 18 — Evening

"Afterward." Hebrews 12:11

How happy are tried Christians, afterwards. No calm more deep than that which follows a storm. Who has not rejoiced in clear shinings after rain? Victorious banquets are for well-exercised soldiers. After killing the lion—we eat the honey; after climbing the Hill Difficulty—we sit down in the arbor to rest; after traversing the Valley of Humiliation, after fighting with Apollyon, the shining one appears, with the healing branch from the tree of life. Our sorrows, like the passing keels of the vessels upon the sea, leave a silver line of holy light behind them "afterwards." It is peace, sweet, deep peace, which follows the horrible turmoil which once reigned in our tormented, guilty souls.

See, then, the happy estate of a Christian! He has his best things last, and he therefore in this world receives his worst things first. But even his worst things are "afterward" good things, harsh ploughings—yielding joyful harvests. Even now he grows rich by his losses, he rises by his falls, he lives by dying, and becomes full by being emptied. If, then, his grievous afflictions yield him so much peaceable fruit in this life—what shall be the full vintage of joy "afterwards" in heaven? If his dark nights are as bright as the world's days—what shall his days be? If even his starlight is more splendid than the sun—what must his sunlight be? If he can sing in a dungeon—how sweetly will he sing in heaven! If he can praise the Lord in the fires—how will he extol Him before the eternal throne! If evil is good to him now—what will the overflowing goodness of God be to him then?

Oh, blessed "afterward!" Who would not be a Christian? Who would not bear the present cross—for the crown which comes afterwards? But herein is work for patience, for the rest is not for today, nor the triumph for the present—but "afterward." Wait, O soul, and let patience have her perfect work.

 

May 19 — Morning

"I have seen slaves on horseback—while princes go on foot like slaves." Ecclesiastes 10:7

Upstarts frequently usurp the highest places, while the truly great pine in obscurity. This is a riddle in providence whose solution will one day gladden the hearts of the upright; but it is so common a fact, that none of us should murmur if it should fall to our own lot.

When our Lord was upon earth, although He is the Prince of the kings of the earth—yet He walked the footpath of weariness and service as the Servant of servants—what wonder is it if His followers, who are princes of royal blood, should also be looked down upon as inferior and contemptible people? The world is upside down, and therefore, the first are last—and the last are first. See how the servile sons of Satan rule in the earth! What a high horse they ride! How they lift up their horn on high! Haman is in the court, while Mordecai sits in the gate; David wanders on the mountains, while Saul reigns in state; Elijah is complaining in the cave, while Jezebel is boasting in the palace; yet who would wish to take the places of the proud rebels? and who, on the other hand, might not envy the despised saints?

When the wheel turns—those who are lowest rise, and the highest sink. Patience, then, believer, eternity will right the wrongs of time. Let us not fall into the error of letting our passions and carnal appetites ride in triumph, while our nobler powers walk in the dust. Grace must reign as a prince, and make the members of the body instruments of righteousness. The Holy Spirit loves order, and He therefore sets our powers and faculties in due rank and place, giving the highest room to those spiritual faculties which link us with the great King. Let us not disturb the divine arrangement—but ask for grace that we may keep our body under subjection. We were not new created to allow our passions to rule over us—but that we, as kings, may reign in Christ Jesus over the triple kingdom of spirit, soul, and body, to the glory of God the Father!

 

May 19 — Evening

"And he prayed that he might die." 1 Kings 19:4

It was a remarkable thing that the man who was never to die, for whom God had ordained an infinitely better lot, the man who should be carried to heaven in a chariot of fire, and be translated, that he should not see death—should thus pray, "Let me die! I am no better than my fathers." We have here a memorable proof that God does not always answer prayer in kind, though He always does in effect. He gave Elijah something better than that which he asked for, and thus really heard and answered him.

Strange was it that the lion-hearted Elijah should be so depressed by Jezebel's threat as to ask to die, and blessedly kind was it on the part of our heavenly Father that He did not take His desponding servant at his word.

There is a limit to the prayer of faith. We are not to expect that God will give us everything we choose to ask for. We know that we sometimes ask, and do not receive, because we ask amiss. If we ask for that which is not promised—if we run counter to the spirit which the Lord would have us cultivate—if we ask contrary to His will, or to the decrees of His providence—if we ask merely for the gratification of our own ease, and without an eye to His glory—we must not expect that we shall receive.

Yet, when we ask in faith, nothing doubting, if we receive not the precise thing asked for, we shall receive an equivalent, and more than an equivalent, for it. As one remarks, "If the Lord does not pay in silver, He will in gold; and if He does not pay in gold, He will in diamonds!" If He does not give you precisely what you ask for, He will give you that which is tantamount to it, and that which you will greatly rejoice to receive in lieu thereof. Be then, dear reader, much in prayer—but take heed what you ask for!

 

May 20 — Morning

"Your marvelous loving-kindness." Psalm 17:7

When we give our hearts with our alms—we give well—but we must often plead to a failure in this respect. Not so our Master and our Lord. His favors are always performed with the love of His heart. He does not send to us the cold meat and the broken pieces from the table of His luxury—but He dips our morsel in His own dish, and seasons our provisions with the spices of His fragrant affections. When He puts the golden tokens of His grace into our palms, He accompanies the gift with such a warm pressure of our hand, that the manner of His giving is as precious as the blessing itself. He will come into our houses upon His errands of kindness, and He will not act as some austere visitors do in the poor man's cottage—but He sits by our side, not despising our poverty, nor blaming our weakness.

Beloved, with what smiles does He speak! What golden sentences drop from His gracious lips! What embraces of affection does He bestow upon us! If He had but given us pennies, the manner of His giving would have gilded them; but as it is, the costly alms are set in a golden basket by His pleasant manner of giving. It is impossible to doubt the sincerity of His charity, for there is a bleeding heart stamped upon the face of all His blessings. He gives liberally and upbraids not. Not one hint that we are burdensome to Him; not one cold look for His poor pensioners; but He rejoices to show mercy to us—and presses us to His bosom—while He is pouring out His life for us. There is a fragrance in His spikenard, which nothing but His heart could produce; there is a sweetness in His honeycomb, which could not be in it unless the very essence of His soul's affection had been mingled with it. Oh! the rare communion which such singular heartiness effects! May we continually taste and know the blessedness of His marvelous loving-kindness!

 

May 20 — Evening

"I drew them with cords of human kindness, with ties of love." Hosea 11:4

Our heavenly Father often draws us with the cords of love; but ah! how backward we are to run towards Him! How slowly do we respond to His gentle impulses! He draws us to exercise a more simple faith in Him; but we have not yet attained to Abraham's confidence; we do not leave our worldly cares with God—but, like Martha, we cumber ourselves with much serving. Our meager faith brings leanness into our souls; we do not open our mouths wide, though God has promised to fill them.

Does He not this evening draw us to trust Him? Can we not hear Him say, "Come, My child—and trust Me. The veil is rent; enter into My presence, and approach boldly to the throne of My grace. I am worthy of your fullest confidence, cast your cares on Me! Shake yourself from the dust of your cares—and put on your beautiful garments of joy." But, alas! though called with tones of love to the blessed exercise of this comforting grace—we will not come.

At another time He draws us to closer communion with Himself. We have been sitting on the doorstep of God's house, and He bids us advance into the banqueting hall and sup with Him—but we decline the honor. There are secret rooms not yet opened to us; Jesus invites us to enter them—but we hold back. Shame on our cold hearts! We are but poor lovers of our sweet Lord Jesus, not fit to be His servants, much less to be His brides, and yet He has exalted us to be bone of His bone and flesh of His flesh, married to Him by a glorious marriage-covenant. Herein is love! But it is love which takes no denial.

If we do not obey the gentle drawings of His love—He will send affliction to drive us into closer intimacy with Himself. Have us nearer He will. What foolish children we are to refuse those cords of love, and so bring upon our backs that scourge of small cords, which Jesus knows how to use!

 

May 21 — Morning

"If so be you have tasted that the Lord is gracious." 1 Peter 2:3

"If", then, this is not a matter to be taken for granted concerning every one of the human race. "If", then there is a possibility and a probability that some may not have tasted that the Lord is gracious. "If", then this is not a general but a special mercy; and it is needful to inquire whether we know the grace of God by inward experience.

There is no spiritual favor which may not be a matter for heart-searching. But while this should be a matter of earnest and prayerful inquiry, no one ought to be content while there is any such thing as an "if" about his having tasted that the Lord is gracious. A jealous and holy distrust of SELF may give rise to the question even in the believer's heart—but the continuance of such a doubt would be an evil indeed. We must not rest without a desperate struggle to clasp the Savior in the arms of faith, and say, "I know whom I have believed, and I am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him."

Do not rest, O believer, until you have a full assurance of your interest in Jesus. Let nothing satisfy you until, by the infallible witness of the Holy Spirit bearing witness with your spirit—you are certified that you are a child of God. Oh, trifle not here; let no "perhaps" and "if" and "maybe" satisfy your soul. Build on eternal verities, and truly build upon them. Get the sure mercies of David, and surely get them. Let your anchor be cast into that which is within the veil, and see to it that your soul is linked to the anchor by a cable that will not break. Advance beyond these dreary "ifs", abide no more in the wilderness of doubts and fears; cross the Jordan of distrust, and enter the Canaan of peace, where the land ceases ever flows with milk and honey.

 

May 21 — Evening

"There is grain in Egypt!" Genesis 42:2

Famine pinched all the nations, and it seemed inevitable that Jacob and his family should suffer great poverty; but the God of providence, who never forgets the objects of electing love, had stored a granary for His people by giving the Egyptians warning of the scarcity, and leading them to stockpile the grain of the years of plenty. Little did Jacob expect deliverance from Egypt—but there was the grain in store for him.

Believer, though all things are apparently against you, rest assured that God has made a reservation on your behalf; in the roll of your griefs—there is a saving clause. Somehow He will deliver you, and somewhere He will provide for you. The quarter from which your rescue shall arise, may be a very unexpected one—but help will assuredly come in your extremity, and you shall magnify the name of the Lord. If men do not feed you, ravens shall; and if earth yields not wheat, heaven shall drop with manna. Therefore be of good courage, and rest quietly in the Lord. God can make the source of distress—the channel of delight.

The grain in Egypt was all in the hands of the beloved Joseph; he opened or closed the granaries at will. And so the riches of providence are all in the absolute power of our Lord Jesus, who will dispense them liberally to His people. Joseph was abundantly ready to support his own family; and Jesus is unceasing in His faithful care for His brethren. Our business is to go after the help which is provided for us—we must not sit still in despondency, but bestir ourselves. Prayer will bear us soon into the presence of our royal Brother—once before His throne we have only to ask and have—His stores are not exhausted; there is grain still—His heart is not hard, He will give the grain to us. Lord, forgive our unbelief, and this evening constrain us to draw largely from Your fullness—and receive grace upon grace!

 

May 22 — Morning

"He led them forth by the right way." Psalm 107:7

Trials and troubles often leads the anxious believer to enquire, "Why is this happening to me? I looked for light—but lo, darkness came! I looked for peace—but trouble came! Lord, you hide Your face, and I am troubled. It was but yesterday that I could read my title clear; today my evidences are bedimmed, and my hopes are clouded. Yesterday I could climb to Pisgah's top, and view the landscape o'er, and rejoice with confidence in my future inheritance; today, my spirit has no hopes—but many fears; no joys—but much distress. Is this part of God's plan with me? Can this be the way in which God would bring me to heaven?"

Yes, it is even so! The eclipse of your faith, the darkness of your mind, the fainting of your hope—all these things are but parts of God's method of making you ripe for the great inheritance upon which you shall soon enter. These trials are for the testing and strengthening of your faith—they are waves that wash you further upon the rock—they are winds which waft your ship the more swiftly towards the desired haven.

According to David's words, so it might be said of you, "so He brings them to their desired haven." By honor and dishonor, by evil report and by good report, by plenty and by poverty, by joy and by distress, by persecution and by peace—by all these things is the life of your souls maintained, and by each of these are you helped on your way. Oh, do not think, believer, that your sorrows are out of God's plan; they are necessary parts of it. "We must, through much tribulation, enter the kingdom." Learn, then, even to "Consider it a great joy, whenever you experience various trials."

"O let my trembling soul be still,
 And wait Your wise, Your holy will!
 I cannot, Lord, Your purpose see—
 Yet all is well since ruled by Thee."

 

May 22 — Evening

"Behold, You are beautiful, my Beloved." Song of Solomon 1:16

From every point, our Well-beloved is most beautiful. Our various experiences are meant to furnish fresh viewpoints from which we may consider the loveliness of Jesus!

How amiable are our trials—when they carry us aloft where we may gain clearer views of Jesus, than ordinary life could afford us! We have seen Him from the languishing of a sick bed, from the borders of the grave—we have turned our eyes to our soul's spouse, and He has never been otherwise than "all beauteous." Many of His saints have looked upon Him from the gloom of dungeons, and from the red flames of the stake—yet they have never uttered a bad word about Him—but have died extolling His surpassing charms! Oh, noble and pleasant employment—to be forever gazing at our sweet Lord Jesus!

Is it not unspeakably delightful—to view the Savior in all His offices, and to perceive Him matchless in each—to shift the kaleidoscope, as it were—and to find fresh combinations of His peerless graces?

In the manger—and in eternity; on the cross—and on His throne; in the garden—and in His kingdom; among thieves—or in the midst of cherubim—He is everywhere—altogether lovely!

Examine carefully every little act of His life, and every trait of His character, and He is as lovely in the minute as in the majestic. Judge Him as you will—you cannot censure! Weigh Him as you please—and He will not be found lacking. Eternity shall not discover the shadow of a spot in our Beloved! But rather, as countless ages revolve, His hidden glories shall shine forth with yet more inconceivable splendor!

 

May 23 — Morning

"The Lord will perfect that which concerns me." Psalm 138:8

Most manifestly the confidence which the Psalmist here expressed was a divine confidence. He did not say, "I have grace enough to perfect that which concerns me—my faith is so steady that it will not stagger—my love is so warm that it will never grow cold—my resolution is so firm that nothing can move it." No! his dependence was on the Lord alone. If we indulge in any confidence which is not grounded on the Rock of ages—our confidence is worse than a dream, it will fall upon us, and cover us with its ruins—to our sorrow and confusion. All that human nature spins—time will unravel, to the eternal confusion of all who are clothed therein.

The Psalmist was wise, he rested upon nothing short of the Lord's work. It is the Lord who has begun the good work within us; it is He who has carried it on; and if He does not finish it—it never will be complete! If there is one stitch in the celestial garment of our righteousness, which we are to insert ourselves, then we are lost! But this is our confidence, the Lord who began—will perfect. He has done it all, must do it all, and will do it all. Our confidence must not be in what we have done, nor in what we have resolved to do—but entirely in what the Lord will do!

Unbelief insinuates, "You will never be able to stand. Look at the evil of your heart! You can never conquer sin! Remember the sinful pleasures and temptations of the world which beset you—you will be certainly allured by them and led astray!" Ah! yes, we would indeed perish—if left to our own strength. If we had to navigate our frail vessels over so rough a sea alone—we might well give up the voyage in despair! But, thanks be to God—HE will perfect that which concerns us, and bring us to the desired haven! We can never be too confident—when we confide in Him alone!

 

May 23 — Evening

"You have not bought any fragrant incense for Me." Isaiah 43:24

Worshipers at the temple were accustomed to bring presents of sweet perfumes to be burned upon the altar of God—but Israel, in the time of her backsliding, became ungenerous, and made but few votive offerings to her Lord. This was an evidence of coldness of heart towards God and His house. Reader, does this never occur with you? Might not the complaint of the text be occasionally, if not frequently, brought against you?

Those who are poor in pocket, if rich in faith, will be accepted none the less, because their gifts are small; but, poor reader, do you give in fair proportion to the Lord, or is the widow's mite kept back from the sacred treasury? The rich believer should be thankful for the talent entrusted to him—but should not forget his large responsibility, for where much is given—much will be required. But, rich reader, are you mindful of your obligations, and rendering to the Lord according to the benefit received?

Jesus gave His blood for us—what shall we give to Him? We are His, and all that we have, for He has purchased us unto Himself—can we act as if we were our own? O for more consecration! and to this end, O for more love!

Blessed Jesus, how good it is of You to accept our fragrant incense! Nothing is too costly as a tribute to Your unrivaled love, and yet You receive with favor, the smallest sincere token of affection! You receive our poor forget-me-nots and love-tokens as though they were intrinsically precious, though indeed they are but as the bunch of wild flowers which the child brings to its mother. May we never grow niggardly towards You, and from this hour may we never hear You complain of us again for withholding the gifts of our love. We will give You the first fruits of our increase, and pay You tithes of all, and then we will confess "of Your own—have we given You."

 

May 24 — Morning

"Blessed be God, who has nor turned away my prayer." Psalm 66:20

In looking back upon the character of our prayers, if we do it honestly, we shall be filled with wonder that God has ever answered them. There may be some who think that their prayers are worthy of acceptance—as the Pharisee did.

But the true Christian, in a more enlightened retrospect, weeps over his prayers, and if he could retrace his steps—he would desire to pray more earnestly. Remember, Christian, how cold your prayers have been. When in your closet you should have wrestled as Jacob did; but instead thereof, your petitions have been faint and few—far removed from that humble, believing, persevering faith, which cries, "I will not let You go—unless You bless me!" Yet, wonderful to say, God has heard these cold prayers of yours, and not only heard—but answered them.

Reflect also, how infrequent have been your prayers, unless you have been in trouble, and then you have gone often to the mercy-seat. But when deliverance has come, where have been your constant supplications? You have ceased to pray as once you did—yet God has not ceased to bless. When you have neglected the mercy-seat, God has not deserted it—but the bright light of the Shekinah glory has always been visible between the wings of the cherubim.

Oh! it is marvelous that the Lord should regard those intermittent spasms of importunity, which come and go with our necessities. What a God is He thus to hear the prayers of those who come to Him when they have pressing needs—but neglect Him when they have received a mercy; who approach Him when they are forced to come—but who almost forget to address Him when mercies are plentiful and sorrows are few. Let His gracious kindness in hearing such prayers, touch our hearts, so that we may henceforth be found "Praying always—with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit."

 

May 24 — Evening

"Live your life in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ." Philippians 1:27

This signifies the whole course of our life and behavior in the world. What sort of life is this?

In the first place, the gospel is very simple. So Christians should be simple and plain in their habits. There should be about our manner, our speech, our dress, our whole behavior—that simplicity which is the very soul of beauty.

The gospel is pre-eminently true, it is gold without dross; and the Christian's life will be lustreless and valueless without the jewel of truth.

The gospel is a very bold gospel, it fearlessly proclaims the truth, whether men like it or not. We must be equally faithful and unflinching.

But the gospel is also very gentle. Mark this spirit in its Founder, "a bruised reed He will not break." Some professors are sharper than a thorn-hedge; such men are not like Jesus. Let us seek to win others by the gentleness of our words and acts.

The gospel is very loving. It is the message of the God of love to a lost and fallen race. Christ's last command to His disciples was, "Love one another." O for more real, hearty love to all the saints—for more tender compassion towards the souls of the worst and vilest of men!

We must not forget that the gospel of Christ is holy. It never excuses sin. It pardons sin—but only through an atonement. If our life is to resemble the gospel, we must shun, not merely the grosser vices—but everything that would hinder our perfect conformity to Christ.

For His sake, for our own sakes, and for the sakes of others, we must strive day by day—to live our life in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ!

 

May 25 — Morning

"Do not forsake me, O Lord! Do not be far from me, O my God!" Psalm 38:21

Frequently we pray that God would not forsake us in the hour of trial and temptation—but we too much forget that we have need to use this prayer at all times. There is no moment of our life, however holy—in which we can do without His constant upholding. Whether in light or in darkness, in communion or in temptation—we alike need the prayer, "Do not forsake, O Lord!" "Hold me up—and I shall be safe!"

A little child, while learning to walk—always needs the parent's aid. The ship left by the pilot—drifts at once from her course. We cannot do without continuous aid from God. Let it be your prayer today, "Do not forsake me! Father, do not forsake Your child—lest he fall by the hand of the enemy. Shepherd, do not forsake Your lamb—lest he wander from the safety of the fold. Great Gardener, do not forsake Your plant—lest it wither and die! Do not forsake me now, O Lord! And do not forsake me at any moment of my life. Do not forsake me in my joys—lest they absorb my heart. Do not forsake me not in my sorrows—lest I murmur against You. Do not forsake me in the day of my repentance—lest I lose the hope of pardon, and fall into despair. Do not forsake me in the day of my strongest faith—lest faith degenerate into presumption. Do not forsake me—for without You I am weak—but with You I am strong. Do not forsake me—for my path is dangerous, and full of snares—and I cannot travel without Your guidance. The hen does not forsake her brood; evermore cover me with Your feathers, and permit me to find my refuge under Your wings. Do not be far from me, O Lord, for trouble is near—and there is none to help. Leave me not, neither forsake me, O God of my salvation!"

 

May 25 — Evening

"They got up and returned at once to Jerusalem . . . and they told what had happened on the way, and how Jesus was recognized by them when he broke the bread."

"And they rose up the same hour, and returned Jerusalem ... and they told what things were done in the way, and how He was known of them." Luke 24:33, 35

When the two disciples had reached Emmaus, and were refreshing themselves at the evening meal—the mysterious stranger who had so enchanted them upon the road, took bread and broke it, made Himself known to them, and then vanished out of their sight! They had constrained Him to abide with them, because the day was far spent; but now, although it was much later, their love was a lamp to their feet, yes, wings also! They forgot the darkness, their weariness was all gone, and forthwith they journeyed back the more than seven miles, to tell the gladsome news of a risen Lord, who had appeared to them by the way. They reached the Christians in Jerusalem, and were received by a burst of joyful news before they could tell their own tale.

These early Christians were all on fire to speak of Christ's resurrection, and to proclaim what they knew of the Lord; they made common property of their experiences. This evening let their example impress us deeply. We too must bear our witness concerning Jesus. John's account of the sepulcher needed to be supplemented by Peter; and Mary could speak of something further still; combined, we have a full testimony from which nothing can be spared.

We have each of us peculiar gifts and special manifestations; but the one object which God has in view, is the perfecting of the whole body of Christ. We must, therefore, bring our spiritual possessions and lay them at the apostle's feet, and make distribution unto all—of what God has given to us. Keep back no part of the precious truth—but speak what you know, and testify what you have seen. Let not the toil or darkness, or possible unbelief of your friends, weigh one moment in the scale. Up, and be marching to the place of duty—and there tell what great things God has shown to your soul!

 

May 26 — Morning

"Cast your burden upon the Lord—and He shall sustain you." Psalm 55:22

Care, even though exercised upon legitimate objects, if carried to excess, has in it a measure of sin. The precept to avoid anxious care, is earnestly inculcated by our Savior, again and again; it is reiterated by the apostles; and it is one which cannot be neglected without involving sin—for the very essence of anxious care is the imagining that we are wiser than God, and the thrusting ourselves into His place—to do for Him that which He has undertaken to do for us. We attempt to think of that, which we imagine He will forget. We labor to take upon ourselves our weary burden—as if He were unable or unwilling to take it for us!

Now this disobedience to His plain precept, this unbelief in His Word, this presumption in intruding upon His province—is all sinful. Yet more than this, anxious care often leads to acts of sin. He who cannot calmly leave his affairs in God's hand—but will carry his own burden, is very likely to be tempted to use wrong means to help himself. This sin leads to a forsaking of God as our Counselor, and resorting instead to human wisdom. This is going to the "broken cistern" instead of to the "fountain;" a sin which was laid against Israel of old.

Anxiety makes us doubt God's loving-kindness—and thus our love to Him grows cold. We feel mistrust, and thus grieve the Spirit of God—so that our prayers become hindered, our consistent example marred, and our life one of self-seeking. Thus, this lack of confidence in God, leads us to wander far from Him. But if through simple faith in His promise, we cast each burden as it comes upon Him, and "don't worry about anything" because He undertakes to care for us—it will keep us close to Him, and strengthen us against much temptation. "You will keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You!"

 

May 26 — Evening

"Continue in the faith." Acts 14:22

Perseverance is the badge of true believers. The Christian life is not only a beginning in the ways of God—but also a continuance in holiness as long as life lasts. It is with a Christian as it was with the great Napoleon—he said, "Conquest has made me what I am, and conquest must maintain me." So, under God, dear brother in the Lord, conquest has made you what you are, and conquest must sustain you. Your motto must be, "Excelsior!" He alone is a true conqueror, and shall be crowned at the last, who continues until war's trumpet is blown no more.

Perseverance is, therefore, the target of all our spiritual enemies.

The world does not object to your being a Christian for a time, if she can but tempt you to cease your pilgrimage, and settle down to buy and sell with her in Vanity Fair.

The flesh will seek to ensnare you, and to prevent your pressing on to glory, "It is weary work being a pilgrim—give it up. Am I always to be mortified? Am I never to be indulged? Give me at least a furlough from this constant warfare."

Satan will make many a fierce attack on your perseverance; it will be the mark for all his arrows. He will strive to hinder you in service—he will insinuate that you are doing no good; and that you need rest. He will endeavor to make you weary of suffering, he will whisper, "Curse God, and die!" Or he will attack your steadfastness, "What is the good of being so zealous? Be quiet like the rest; sleep as do others, and let your lamp go out as the other virgins do." Or he will assail your doctrinal sentiments, "Why do you hold to these doctrines? Sensible men are getting more liberal; they are removing the old landmarks—fall in with the times."

Wear your shield, Christian, therefore, close upon your armor, and cry mightily unto God, that by His Spirit you may endure to the end.

 

May 27 — Morning

"So Mephibosheth lived in Jerusalem because he always ate at the king's table. He was lame in both feet." 2 Samuel 9:13

Mephibosheth was no great ornament to a royal table—yet he had a continual place at David's table, because the king could see in his face—the features of the beloved Jonathan. Like Mephibosheth, we may cry unto the King of Glory, "What is Your servant, that You should look upon such a dead dog as I am?" But still the Lord indulges us with most familiar fellowship with Himself, because He sees in our countenances the remembrance of His dearly-beloved Jesus.

The Lord's people are dear for another's sake. Such is the love which the Father bears to His only begotten, that for His sake He raises His lowly brethren from poverty and banishment, to courtly companionship, noble rank, and royal provision! Their deformity shall not rob them of their privileges. Lameness is no bar to sonship; the cripple is as much the heir—as if he could run like Asahel. Our right does not limp, though our might may.

A king's table—is a noble hiding-place for lame legs! At the gospel feast, we learn to glory in infirmities, because the power of Christ rests upon us. Yet grievous deformities may now mar the best-loved saints. Here is one feasted by David, and yet so lame in both his feet that he could not go up with the king when he fled from the city, and was therefore maligned and injured by his servant Ziba. Saints whose faith is weak, and whose knowledge is slender, are great losers; they are exposed to many enemies, and cannot follow the king wherever he goes.

This infirmity frequently arises from falls. Bad nursing in their spiritual infancy—often causes converts to fall into a despondency from which they never recover, and sin in other cases brings broken bones. Lord, help the lame to leap like an deer, and satisfy all Your people with the bread of Your table!

 

May 27 — Evening

"Mephibosheth bowed down and said—What is your servant that you take an interest in such a dead dog as me!" 2 Samuel 9:8

If Mephibosheth was thus humbled by David's kindness, what shall we be in the presence of our gracious Lord? The more grace we have—the less we shall think of ourselves; for grace, like light, reveals our impurity. Eminent saints have scarcely known to what to compare themselves, their sense of unworthiness has been so clear and keen. "I am," says holy Rutherford, "a dry and withered branch, a piece of dead carcass, dry bones, and not able to step over a straw." In another place he writes, "Except as to open outbreakings of sin—I am no different than Judas and Cain."

The basest objects in nature appear to the humbled Christian—to be better than himself, because they have never contracted sin. A dog may be greedy, fierce, or filthy—but it has no conscience to violate, no Holy Spirit to resist. A dog may be a worthless animal, and yet by a little kindness it is soon won to love its master, and is faithful unto death; but we forget the goodness of the Lord, and follow not at His call.

The term "dead dog" is the most expressive of all terms of contempt—but it is none too strong to express the self-abhorrence of instructed believers. They do not affect mock modesty; they mean what they say; they have weighed themselves in the balances of the sanctuary, and found out the vanity of their hearts. At best, we are but clay, animated dust, mere walking dirt! But viewed as sinners—we are monsters indeed!

Let it be published in heaven as a wonder, that the Lord Jesus should set His heart's love upon such as we are. Dust and ashes though we are, we must and will "magnify the exceeding greatness of His grace." Could not His heart find rest in heaven? Must He needs come to these tents of Kedar for a spouse, and choose an unlovely bride? O heavens and earth, break forth into a song, and give all glory to our sweet Lord Jesus!

 

May 28 — Morning

"Those He predestined, He also called; and those He called, He also justified; and those He justified, He also glorified." Romans 8:30

Here is a precious truth for you, believer. You may be poor, or in suffering, or unknown—but for your encouragement take a review of your "calling" and the consequences that flow from it, and especially that blessed result here spoken of. As surely as you are God's child today—so surely shall all your trials soon be at an end, and you shall be rich to all the intents of bliss. Wait awhile, and that weary head shall wear the crown of glory, and that hand of labor shall grasp the palm-branch of victory. Lament not your troubles—but rather rejoice that before long you will be where "there shall be neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain." The chariots of fire are at your door, and a moment will suffice to bear you to the glorified. The everlasting song is almost on your lip. The portals of heaven stand open for you.

Do not think that you can fail of entering into rest. If He has called you—nothing can divide you from His love. Troubles cannot sever the bond; the fire of persecution cannot burn the link; the hammer of hell cannot break the chain. You are secure; that voice which called you at first, shall call you yet again from earth to heaven, from death's dark gloom to immortality's unuttered splendors. Rest assured, the heart of Him who has justified you—beats with infinite love towards you. You shall soon be with the glorified, where your portion is; you are only waiting here to be made fit for the inheritance, and that done, the wings of angels shall waft you far away, to the mount of peace, and joy, and blessedness, where, "Far from a world of grief and sin—with God eternally shut in," you shall rest forever and ever!

 

May 28 — Evening

"This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope." Lamentations 3:21

Memory is frequently the bondslave of despondency. Despairing minds call to remembrance every dark foreboding in the past, and dilate upon every gloomy feature in the present; thus memory, clothed in sackcloth, presents to the mind a cup of mingled gall and wormwood. There is, however, no necessity for this. Wisdom can readily transform memory into an angel of comfort. That same recollection which in its left hand brings so many gloomy omens, may be trained to bear in its right hand a wealth of hopeful signs. She need not wear a crown of iron, she may encircle her brow with a fillet of gold, all spangled with stars.

Thus it was in Jeremiah's experience—in the previous verse memory had brought him to deep humiliation of soul, "My soul has them still in remembrance, and is humbled in me"; and now this same memory restored him to life and comfort. "This I recall to my mind, therefore have I hope." Like a two-edged sword, his memory first killed his pride with one edge, and then slew his despair with the other. As a general principle, if we would exercise our memories more wisely, we might, in our very darkest distress, strike a match which would instantaneously kindle the lamp of comfort. There is no need for God to create a new thing upon the earth in order to restore believers to joy; if they would prayerfully rake the ashes of the past, they would find light for the present; and if they would turn to the book of truth and the throne of grace, their candle would soon shine as aforetime.

Be it ours to remember the loving-kindness of the Lord, and to rehearse His deeds of grace. Let us open the volume of recollection which is so richly illuminated with memorials of mercy, and we shall soon be happy. Thus memory may be, as Coleridge calls it, "the bosom-spring of joy," and when the Divine Comforter bends it to His service, it may be chief among earthly comforters.

 

May 29 — Morning

"You hate wickedness." Psalm 45:7

"Be angry—and sin not." There can hardly be goodness in a man—if he is not angry at sin; he who loves truth—must hate every false way. How our Lord Jesus hated it when the temptation came! Thrice it assailed Him in different forms—but ever He met it with, "Get behind me, Satan." He hated it in others; none the less fervently because He showed His hate oftener in tears of pity—than in words of rebuke; yet what language could be more stern, more Elijah-like, than the words, "Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for you devour widows' houses, and for a pretense make long prayer."

He hated wickedness so much that He bled to wound it to the heart; He died that it might die; He was buried that He might bury it in His tomb; and He rose that He might forever trample it beneath His feet. Christ is in the Gospel, and that Gospel is opposed to wickedness in every shape. Wickedness arrays itself in fair garments, and imitates the language of holiness; but the precepts of Jesus, like His scourge of small cords, chase it out of the temple, and will not tolerate it in the Church. So, too, in the heart where Jesus reigns, what war there is between Christ and Belial! And when our Redeemer shall come to be our Judge, those thundering words, "Depart, you who are cursed!" which are, indeed—but a prolongation of His life-teaching concerning sin, shall manifest His abhorrence of iniquity.

As warm as is His love to sinners—so hot is His hatred of sin; as perfect as is His righteousness, so complete shall be the destruction of every form of wickedness. O glorious champion of right, and destroyer of wrong, for this cause has God, even Your God, anointed you with the oil of gladness above Your fellows.

 

May 29 — Evening

"Cursed before the Lord is the man who undertakes the rebuilding of this city, Jericho." Joshua 6:26

Since he was cursed who rebuilt Jericho—much more the man who labors to restore Popery among us. In our fathers' days the gigantic walls of Popery fell by the power of their faith, the perseverance of their efforts, and the blast of their gospel trumpets; and now there are some who would rebuild that accursed system upon its old foundation. O Lord, be pleased to thwart their unrighteous endeavors, and pull down every stone which they build. It should be a serious business with us to be thoroughly purged of every error which may have a tendency to foster the spirit of Popery, and when we have made a clean sweep at home we should seek in every way to oppose its all too rapid spread abroad in the church and in the world. This last can be done in secret by fervent prayer, and in public by decided testimony.

We must warn with judicious boldness those who are inclined towards the errors of Rome; we must instruct the young in gospel truth, and tell them of the black doings of Popery in the olden times. We must aid in spreading the light more thoroughly through the land, for priests, like owls, hate daylight.

Are we doing all we can for Jesus and the gospel? If not, our negligence plays into the hands of the priestcraft. What are we doing to spread the Bible, which is the Pope's bane and poison? Are we casting abroad good, sound gospel writings? Luther once said, "The devil hates goose quills" and, doubtless, he has good reason, for ready writers, by the Holy Spirit's blessing, have done his kingdom much damage. If the thousands who will read this short word this night will do all they can to hinder the rebuilding of this accursed Jericho, the Lord's glory shall speed among the sons of men. Reader, what can you do? What will you do?

May 30 — Morning

"Catch the foxes, the little foxes that ruin the vines—for our vines have tender grapes." Song of Solomon 2:15

A little thorn may cause much suffering. A little cloud may hide the sun. Little foxes spoil the vines. And little sins do much harm to the tender heart. These little sins burrow in the soul, and make it so full of that which is hateful to Christ—that He will hold no comfortable fellowship and communion with us. A great sin cannot destroy a Christian—but a little sin can make him miserable!

Jesus will not walk with His people unless they drive out every known sin. He says, "If you keep My commandments, you shall abide in My love, even as I have kept My Father's commandments and abide in His love." Some Christians very seldom enjoy their Savior's presence. How is this? Surely it must be an affliction for a tender child to be separated from his father. Are you a child of God—and yet satisfied to go on without seeing your Father's face? What! you the spouse of Christ—and yet content without His company! Surely, you have fallen into a sad state, for the chaste spouse of Christ mourns like a dove without her mate, when he has left her.

Ask, then, the question—what has driven Christ from you? He hides His face behind the wall of your sins. That wall may be built up of little pebbles, as easily as of great stones. The sea is made of drops; the rocks are made of grains—and the sea which divides you from Christ may be filled with the drops of your little sins; and the rock which has well near wrecked your barque, may have been made by the daily working of the coral insects of your little sins. If you would live with Christ, and walk with Christ, and see Christ, and have fellowship with Christ—take heed of "little foxes that ruin the vines—for our vines have tender grapes." Jesus invites you to go with Him and catch them. He will surely, like Samson, catch the foxes at once and easily. Go with Him to the hunting!

 

May 30 — Evening

"That henceforth we should not serve sin." Romans 6:6

Christian, what have you to do with sin? Has it not cost you enough already? Burnt child—will you play with the fire? What! when you have already been between the jaws of the lion—will you step a second time into his den? Have you not had enough of the old serpent? Did he not poison all your veins once—and will you play upon the hole of the viper, and put your hand upon the cockatrice's den a second time? Oh, do not be so mad! Do not be so foolish!

Did sin ever yield you real pleasure? Did you find solid satisfaction in it? If so, go back to your old drudgery, and wear the chain again—if it delights you. But inasmuch as sin did never give you what it promised to bestow—but deluded you with lies—do not be snared a second time by the old fowler! Let the remembrance of your ancient bondage forbid you to enter the net again!

It is contrary to the designs of eternal love, which all have an eye to your purity and holiness; therefore do not run counter to the purposes of your Lord.

Another thought should restrain you from sin. Christians can never sin cheaply; they pay a heavy price for iniquity. Transgression destroys peace of mind, obscures fellowship with Jesus, hinders prayer, brings darkness over the soul. Therefore do not be the serf and bondman of sin.

There is yet a higher argument—each time you "serve sin" you have "Crucified the Lord afresh—and put Him to an open shame." Can you bear that thought? Oh! if you have fallen into any special sin during this day, it may be my Master has sent this admonition this evening, to bring you back before you have backslidden very far. Turn to Jesus anew; He has not forgotten His love to you; His grace is still the same. With weeping and repentance, come to His footstool, and you shall be once more received into His heart; you shall be set upon a rock again, and your goings shall be established.

 

May 31 — Morning

"The king himself also passed over the brook Kidron." 2 Samuel 15:23

David passed that gloomy brook when fleeing with his mourning company from his traitor son. The man after God's own heart was not exempt from trouble, nay, his life was full of it. He was both the Lord's anointed, and the Lord's afflicted. Why then should we expect to escape?

At sorrow's gates, the noblest of our race have waited with ashes on their heads, why then should we complain, as though some strange thing had happened unto us? The King of kings himself was not favored with a more cheerful or royal road. He passed over the filthy ditch of Kidron, through which the filth of Jerusalem flowed. God had one Son without sin—but not a single child without the rod! It is a great joy to believe that Jesus has been tempted in all points like as we are.

What is our Kidron this morning? Is it a faithless friend, a sad bereavement, a slanderous reproach, a dark foreboding? The King has passed over all these. Is it bodily pain, poverty, persecution, or contempt? Over each of these Kidrons—the King has gone before us. "In all our afflictions, He was afflicted." The idea of freedom from trials must be banished at once and forever, for He who is the Head of all saints, knows by experience the grief which we think so peculiar to ourselves. All the citizens of Zion must be part of the Honorable Company of Mourners, of which the Prince Immanuel is Head and Captain.

Notwithstanding the abasement of David, he yet returned in triumph to his city, and David's Lord arose victorious from the grave; let us then be of good courage, for we also shall win the day. We shall yet with joy draw water out of the wells of salvation, though now for a season we have to pass by the noxious streams of sin and sorrow. Courage, soldiers of the Cross, the King himself triumphed after going over Kidron—and so shall you!

 

May 31 — Evening

"Who heals all your diseases." Psalm 103:3

Humbling as is the statement—yet the fact is certain, that we are all more or less suffering under the disease of sin. What a comfort to know that we have a great Physician who is both able and willing to heal us! Let us think of Him for a while tonight.

His cures are very speedy—there is life in a look at Him. His cures are radical—He strikes at the center of the disease. And hence, His cures are sure and certain. He never fails, and the disease never returns. There is no relapse where Christ heals—there is no fear that His patients should be merely patched up for a season. He makes new men of them—a new heart also does He give them, and a right spirit does He put with them.

He is well skilled in all diseases. Physicians generally have some specialty. Although they may know a little about almost all our pains and ills, there is usually one disease which they have studied above all others; but Jesus Christ is thoroughly acquainted with the whole of human nature. He is as much at home with one sinner as with another, and never yet did He meet with an unusual case which was difficult to Him. He has had extraordinary complications of strange diseases to deal with—but He has known exactly with one glance of His eye—how to treat the patient.

He is the only universal doctor; and the medicine He gives is the only true universal remedy, healing in every instance. Whatever our spiritual malady may be—we should apply at once to this Divine Physician. There is no brokenness of heart which Jesus cannot bind up. "His blood cleanses from all sin." We have but to think of the myriads who have been delivered from all sorts of diseases through the power and virtue of His touch, and we shall joyfully put ourselves in His hands. We trust Him—and sin dies; we love Him—and grace lives; we wait for Him—and grace is strengthened; we see Him as he is—and grace is perfected forever!