It is high time we awaken!

The world is perishing for lack of knowledge. Did any one among us ever lay China on his heart? Your imagination cannot grapple with the population of that mighty empire, without God, without Christ, strangers to the commonwealth of Israel. But it is not China alone; there are other vast nations lying in darkness; the great serpent hath coiled himself around the globe, and who shall set the world free from him?

Reflect upon this one city with its three millions. What sin the moon sees! What sin the Sabbath sees! Alas! for the transgressions of this wicked city. Babylon of old could not have been worse than London is, nor so guilty, for she had not the light that London has received. Brethren, there is no hope for China, no hope for the world, no hope for our own city, while the church is sluggish and lethargic. It is through the church the blessing is bestowed. Christ multiplies the bread, and gives it to the disciples; the multitudes can only get it through the disciples. Oh, it is time, it is high time that the churches were awakened to seek the good of dying myriads. Moreover, brethren, the powers of evil are ever active. We may sleep, but Satan sleepeth never. The church’s plough lies yonder, rusting in the furrow: do you not see it, to your shame? But the plough of Satan goes from end to end of his great field, he leaves no headland, but he ploughs deep whilst sluggish churches sleep. May we be stirred as we see the awful activity of evil spirits and persons who are under their sway.

No need to go back!

[T]here is no period of our life in which it is necessary for us to go back. The young Christian, with all the strength of his natural passions, can by grace be strong and overcome the Wicked One; the Christian in middle life, surrounded with the world’s cares, can prove that “this is the victory which overcometh the world, even our faith.” The man immersed in business may still be baptised of the Holy Ghost. Assuredly, old age offers no excuse for decline: “they shall still bring forth fruit in old age; they shall be fat and flourishing; to show that the Lord is upright.”

No, brethren as Christ said to his disciples, when they would fain have sent the multitude away to buy meat, “they need not depart;” so would he say to the whole company of the Lord’s people, “ye need not depart;” there is no compulsion for decline in grace.” Your sun need not stand still, your moon need not wane. If you cannot add a cubit to your spiritual stature, at any rate, it need not decrease. There are no reasons written in the book of your spiritual nature why you, as a believer, should lose fellowship with God, and, if you do so, take blame and shame to yourself, but do not ascribe it to necessity. Do not gratify your corruptions by supposing that they are licensed to prevail occasionally, neither vex your graces by conceiving that they are doomed to inevitable defeat at a certain season. The spirit that is in us lusteth to evil, but the Holy Spirit is able to subdue it, and will subdue it, if we yield ourselves to him.

Noah's Ark

The flood came and swept them all away!

(Edward Griffin, "NOAH'S ARK")

"HE wiped out every living thing that was on the surface of the ground, from mankind to livestock, to creatures that crawl, to the birds of the sky, and they were wiped off the earth! Only Noah was left, and those who were with him in the ark!" Genesis 7:23

Finally, the frightful morning began! The heavens gathered blackness. Angry tempests conflicted in the skies. The lightnings flashed over the world! Word was spread, that Noah and his family had entered into the ark. The ungodly then began to fear!

Before long, floods of water poured from the sky. Some now began to turn their eyes towards the ark; others stood doubting; others still dared to scoff!

The waters go on to increase. The rivers fill—and start to overflow. The waters begin to rise in the streets. Some flee into their houses; others, more intimidated, hasten to the hills! Others are now convinced, and with dreadful fright, are seen wading towards the ark!

The fountains of the great deep are now broken up. The waters rise more rapidly, and begin to rush with impetuous force. With difficulty they stand against the stream. They struggle for their lives to reach the ark! Thousands come—some wading, some swimming, some sinking, some hanging onto the ark with the grasp of death—all screaming for admission!

But it is too late! Time was, when the ark was open and they might have entered in—but that time is past! Where are now those tongues which derided the enormous vessel and the man who built it? Now what do you think of him—who for more than a century has borne the character of a fool and madman! They would give a thousand worlds—to be in his condition now!

Those nearest to the ark, cry and plead for admission, but in vain! The waters roar! The ark is lifted up! They sink and are seen no more!

By this time, every wretch on earth is thoroughly convinced. Hear their cries from the tops of the houses, which are answered by wails from those on the hills. See the multitudes who have fled to the mountains. How like frightened sheep they crowd together! Now the waters, roaring and foaming, have reached their feet! They flee up to the highest ridge—but the floods pursue them there! Some are able to climb the lofty oaks—and the waves overtake them there! They flee to the highest branches, and for a moment have time to reflect on their former madness: "How could I disbelieve the Lord's prophet? Where is now the ark which I scorned? Where am I going? O eternity! eternity! What a dreadful God have I despised!" On the topmost bough, the impetuous torrent sweeps them away! Their hold is broken—and they sink to rise no more!

The ark floats by—and sails over the heads of the revilers and persecutors! Only that blessed family in the ark, are safe!

The same terrors will seize an unbelieving world when Jesus comes again! "As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. For in the days before the flood, people were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day Noah entered the ark; and they knew nothing about what would happen until the flood came and swept them all away! That is how it will be at the coming of the Son of Man!" Matthew 24:37-39

Moses' Hands

Moses' Hands

James Smith, 1861


"When Moses' hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up — one on one side, one on the other — so that his hands remained steady till sunset. So Joshua overcame the Amalekite army with the sword." Exodus 17:12-13

Israel's history is full of important instruction, admonition, and counsel. How much of ourselves we may see in them. How soon they murmured and complained, and how often they provoked the Lord. Yet did the Lord appear for them, work on their behalf, and deliver them. No sooner had they received the Manna, than they murmured for the lack of water; and no sooner did they obtain water, than Amalek came up against them. Then Joshua must choose his men and fight, and Moses must ascend the hill and pray. When his hands were up in prayer, Israel prevailed — but when they were down, Amalek prevailed. O the importance of prayer when engaged in the Lord's work! "When Moses' hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up — one on one side, one on the other — so that his hands remained steady till sunset."

Apply this to our own state and circumstances: we are at war with Amalek, or the world — and it is at war with us; and we must conquer it — or be conquered by it. We want to win it for God. We have our Joshuas in the valley, and the army of God's elect — but we must have the company on the mount as well.

Moses signifies "drawn out," and may represent God's ministers, who are drawn out and separated from their brethren for God's work.

Aaron signifies "stability," and may represent what our deacons and elders ought to be — steady officers are a very great blessing.

Hur signifies, "fire or zeal," and may set forth God's people who should be zealous in his work and ways.

The picture presents us with a godly minister, supported by steady deacons, and a zealous people. They are all on the mount engaged with God — yet their representatives are doing battle in the valley.

"When Moses' hands grew tired;" he was getting old, being past eighty; he had toiled up the hill, and was weary; and he was perhaps somewhat disheartened by the conduct of the people. How many of the Lord's ministers are just in this case. They have long labored up the hill, and are getting grey in the Lord's service; they feel weary and exhausted, and the conduct of their people often dispirits them, and their hands hang down.

Aaron and Hur "took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it," they united to give him rest and ease. Just so should our deacons and people do, they should remove all cause of care and anxiety, especially about temporal things, if possible, and set the pastor's heart at rest.

"Aaron and Hur held his hands up," which hands held the staff of God, that staff which wrought for, and spoke of God to the people. In the same way, we also hold up God's Word, and by it present God's truth, and God's Son to the world; and our hands are apt to be heavy, especially when we appear to labor in vain, and spend our strength for nothing and in vain. Then we need to have our hands held up by friendly counsel, united prayers, and zealous cooperation; and when officers and people unite, and all plead for a blessing, then God's ministers are encouraged, and God's work will go on. The result is certain victory, Amalek is routed, and the cause of God is triumphant.

Let officers and people, therefore, in every Church of Christ, combine and cooperate in God's work, keeping God's glory in view. Let nothing alienate their affections from each other, break the ranks, or puff any up with spiritual pride. Satan will aim to do this, and endeavor to lead some to think more highly of themselves than they ought to do, then they will want to leave the ranks and become leaders — aspiring to fill the post of Joshua, of Aaron, or even Moses. When this is the case, then comes confusion, disorder, and every evil work.

Even ministers, like Moses, may get tired and grow weary, being men of like passions with the brethren, and compassed with infirmities. This calls for the sympathy, forbearance, and energetic prayers of the Church; that they may enjoy the renewing of the Holy Spirit, and be strengthened with all might in the inner man. Hearty prayer and effort will be sure to win the day.

Do we want a revival of religion in our own souls? Let us seek it by earnest, determined, persevering prayer, and we shall receive it. Do we want a revival of religion in the Church? Let us meet and get all we can to meet with us, striving together in prayer, that the Holy Spirit may be pour upon us afresh. Let us stand the trial of our faith, sincerity, and perseverance, and we shall see the Lord working wonders among us. Do we want to witness an awakening in the town and neighborhood? Let us set our hearts upon it, publicly and privately pray for it, making use of every means likely to produce it — and continue waiting upon the Lord until we obtain it.

Faith, prayer, and hearty effort — will obtain anything from God! As it is written, "Again, I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything you ask for, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven. For where two or three come together in my name, there am I with them." Again, "Whatever you shall ask in prayer, believing, you shall receive." Once more, "Whatever you shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If you shall ask anything in my name, I will do it."

He must afflict us!

He must afflict us!

(James Smith, "Afflictions Necessary" 1853)

"He does not afflict willingly." Lamentations 3:33

Here is a fact well known--the Lord afflicts His children. Trouble never springs out of the dust--nor do afflictions come by 'chance'. No! Every trial and affliction is sent from our Father's throne--and its direction is written by our Father's hand. He appoints the kind, the degree, and the direction of our afflictions.

We are afflicted with disappointments, losses, and crosses. None are exempt. None can always escape, for "the Lord tries the righteous." "Many are the afflictions of the righteous."

"He does not afflict willingly." He only grieves us from necessity. He has fixed His end, which is to make us holy, and to conform us to the image of His Son; from this, He will not be diverted--but He will surely accomplish it.

In the afflictions which He sends, God aims at . . .
our deeper sanctification,
or our greater usefulness,
or simply at His own glory,
which is always linked with our good.

He therefore afflicts us--to exercise our graces; these would otherwise often lie dormant, become weak, fade, and wither.

God afflicts His children--to wean us from the world, to which we are too much attached, and would be more so, if it were not for trials, disappointments, and vexations.

God afflicts His children--to embitter sin, which is the prolific root, on which every pain, grief and sorrow grows.

God afflicts His children--to endear the Savior, who is our solace in sorrow, and will be our glorious deliverer from it. Never does Jesus appear so precious--as in the hours of trouble and trial.

God afflicts His children--to prevent our falling into temptation, which we would do more frequently, if we were not kept awake and watchful by our various sorrows.

God afflicts His children--to fit us for usefulness, for as the land must be ploughed, harrowed, and crushed--if it is to be fruitful and supply our needs; just so must we be tempted, tried, and troubled--if we are to be of much use to man, or to bring much glory to God.

God afflicts His children, to make us long for heaven--which we seldom do when all is pleasant, bright, and sunny below.

If God loves us with an infinite love;
if He has predestined us to be conformed to the image of His Son;
if He will make us fit to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light;
and if He will correct our faults and our follies
--He must afflict us!

He Was Humbled

He Was Humbled

James Smith, 1861


Man is naturally proud, and pride sets him against God, and against his fellow men. Proud men are never devout men — and they are very seldom kind men. We are about to write a few lines, respecting one of the proudest of men. But those who walk in pride, God is able to abase, and He did so, for "he was humbled." 2 Chronicles 33:19.

WHO was humbled? Manasseh, the king of Judah. Manasseh, who was . . .
as proud as Pharaoh,
as cruel as Hazael,
as idolatrous as Ahab,
as hardened as Judas, and
as degraded as the thief on the cross.

In him, seem to find a home — all that is wicked, unfeeling, and opposed to God. His murders were wholesale, his idolatry was unparalleled, and his pride knew no bounds. The son of good Hezekiah, the anointed king of Judah — yet he broke through all bounds, setting God and man at defiance, and persevered until his head was hoary, and his heart was harder than the nether millstone, and his life was one long catalogue of crimes. He appears to have been the greatest sinner under the old testament dispensation — and yet "he was humbled."

Who humbled him? There was but one who could, and he took the work in hand, proving that his hand was not shortened, that he could not save; neither was his ear heavy, that he could not hear. God alone had the power . . .
to break so hard a heart,
to bend so stubborn a will,
to enlighten so dark a mind, and
to elevate such groveling affections.

God alone had sufficient mercy, for so far had Manasseh gone in cruelty and crime, that the public voice would have execrated him, and voted for his destruction. But God who is rich in mercy, in the exercise of his wondrous love — saved him by his grace. God alone could command the means, and put efficacy into them, that they may accomplish the marvelous design. Because the power of God is omnipotent — because the mercy of God is infinite — because God has all means at his command, and can make any means efficient, "he was humbled."

HOW did God humble him?

By bringing his enemies upon him, and delivering him into their hand;
by stripping him of his royalty, wealth, and power;
by isolating him from all his relatives, friends, and courtiers;
and by casting him into the prison of a foreign king.

There alone, he could reflect upon his wicked conduct, his long life of transgression, his early religious education, the ancient services of the sanctuary, and the word of his God. These reflections were attended with invincible grace, and he . . .
was convinced of sin,
trembled at God's justice,
wondered at God's forbearance,
remembered God's mercy
— until his heart melted,
tears of contrition flowed,
cries for pardon ascended,
and throwing his guilty soul at the feet of a forgiving God, "he was humbled."

If Manasseh was humbled, God was glorified.

Every sigh that heaved his bosom,
every groan that escaped from his heart,
every tear that fell from his eye, and
every cry for mercy that ascended from his lips
— glorified God.

The enemy was subdued,
the rebel sought forgiveness,
the idolater cast away his idols,
Hezekiah's prayers were answered,
the dethroned monarch was restored to his dignity,
the guilty soul was saved,
and in all, God was glorified.

If Manasseh was humbled — SATAN was disappointed. Having led him captive so long, having hardened him to such an extent, having plunged him into such depths of sin, having degraded him so far — he must have made sure of him as his prey. But the prey was taken from the mighty, and the lawful captive was delivered!

Though petrified by sin,
though at the very gate of Hell,
though apparently beyond the reach of mercy
— yet he was humbled, and Satan was disappointed.

If Manasseh was humbled — GRACE was triumphant.
In sovereignty, it sought him,
using means it arrested him,
by its vital breath it melted him,
and as a poor, subdued penitent, it brought him to God's mercy seat.

Grace proved itself invincible — for if Manasseh is subdued, who can successfully resist? Grace proved itself free — for if Manasseh finds grace, how can it depend on any worthiness, or goodness, or excellency in the creature?

If Manasseh was humbled — then surely anyone may be. Can anyone be more hardened? Can anyone show more enmity to God? Can anyone more determinately break through all the restraints of a religious education? Can anyone sink lower, act worse, or run farther from God? If any case had been hopeless — would it not have been Manasseh's, who persevered in sin until he had grown grey in the service of the devil, and had done as many evil things as he could — yet "he was humbled," surely then any one may be.

If Manasseh was humbled — and humbled when he was an old man, dyed to the very bone in sin, and hardened beyond degree — then we should never give any one up. We should pray on, while life lasts; hope on, while we have breath to pray; and use all the means in our power, to bring the very worst sinners to repentance.

My Reader, have you been humbled? You must be — or perish. Before the honor of being saved in the Lord; adopted into God's family, and placed among his princes — is the humbling of the soul to accept of sovereign mercy, to submit to God's righteousness; and the coming of the soul to Jesus as wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked. Take heed of resisting the humbling thoughts suggested to your minds, and the softening influences felt in your souls; yield yourself unto God. Do as Manasseh did, of whom it is written, "But while in deep distress, Manasseh sought the Lord his God and sincerely humbled himself before the God of his ancestors. And when he prayed, the Lord listened to him and was moved by his request."


Hail, mighty Jesus! how divine
Is your victorious sword!
The stoutest rebel must resign
At your commanding word.

The strongest holds of Satan yield
To your all-conquering hand!
When once your glorious arm's revealed,
No creature can withstand!

Still gird your sword upon your thigh,
Ride with majestic sway;
Go forth, sweet prince, triumphantly,
And make your foes obey!

The panacea for all the ills of life!

The panacea for all the ills of life!

(James Smith, "The Spirit's Work in the Believer" 1861)

"The mind of sinful man is death, but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace." Romans 8:6

Spirituality flows from the gracious operations of the Holy Spirit in the soul, who . . .
kindles spiritual love,
awakens spiritual desires, and
produces spiritual devotion.

The Spirit's work in the believer consists:

1. In convincing us of sin, when we go astray from the right ways of the Lord.

2. In working repentance and sorrow within us, and leading us to confess and mourn over our sins before God.

3. In opening up, and applying the Word of God, so that it . . .
meets our case,
feeds our faith,
fires our love, and
deepens our humility.

4. In exciting and drawing forth the soul in prayer, praise, and adoration at the throne of God--so that we sometimes . . .
melt in contrition,
are crumbled down in humiliation,
and are almost dissolved in love.

5. In making us bold in God's cause, and giving us to feel liberty in His presence, through faith in the blood of His dear Son.

6. In giving us soul-refreshing glimpses . . .
of the glorious person of Jesus,
of the everlasting covenant,
and of eternal glory.

7. In melting us down in sincere gratitude before God, under a sense of His undeserved favor.

8. In removing all legal fears, and causing holy peace to flow through the soul like a river.

9. In melting us in meekness, and producing sweet submission to the sovereign will of God.

10. In sweetly soothing and consoling under trials and bereavements; and enabling us to look forward with hope and joy.

11. In giving us sweet intimations of the love of God to us--by pleasing impressions, and holy discoveries of His grace.

12. In witnessing to our adoption, awakening the cry of "Abba, Father!" in our hearts, and enabling us to claim a filial relationship to God.

13. In drawing forth our souls in love to God--under an overcoming sense of His free and unparalleled love to us.

14. In enabling us to mount upward as on the wings of an eagle, and to run with pleasure and delight in God's holy ways.

15. In quickening us to rejoice in the Lord, when all things around are calculated to fill us with despondency and gloom.

16. In producing perseverance in our souls, and enabling us to look away from the things which are seen and temporal--and to look to unseen and eternal realities.

The Spirit works within the Christian, teaching him daily to make use of Christ as the panacea for all the ills of life!

In all these things, and many more--the work of the Spirit in the experience of the believer appears.

Reader, do you know anything of these things in your own experience? Is the Spirit of God daily working in your heart, and do you pay attention to . . .
the lessons He teaches,
the impressions He makes, and
the direction in which He points?

O for more of the Spirit's work within us--that we may live to the praise and glory of Him who loved us, and died to redeem us from sin, death, and Hell!

Holy Spirit, work in us more and more--teaching us the truth, and conforming us to Christ! O for more of Your power, love, and holiness!

Lest They Should Be Converted

Lest They Should Be Converted

James Smith, 1861


I know two young men, whose parents were godly people--but they would never accompany them to hear their minister; and the reason they assigned for this some years afterwards, when they were brought under concern about their souls was, they were afraid they should be converted. They had no fear of being converted under the minister they chose to hear, and such was their dislike to real religion, that they would not go to hear one that was more simple and more impressive, lest they should be converted. This was just the case with the Jews in Paul's time. Therefore he said to them at Rome, "For this people's heart has become calloused; they hardly hear with their ears, and they have closed their eyes. Lest they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts and turn, and I would heal them." Acts 28:27. They were afraid of being converted.


What is Conversion? It is a thorough change of heart and conduct. It is a turning . . .
from sin--to holiness,
from self--to Christ, and
from the world--to the people of God.

In conversion,
the man thinks seriously, upon serious and important subjects;
he feels deeply, the state and danger of his immortal soul; and
he acts wisely in fleeing for refuge to the Lord Jesus Christ.

He can no longer live careless and prayerless,
he can no longer reject the Bible or the means of grace,
he can no longer enjoy the pleasures and frivolities of the world.

He retires to think, to read the Bible and pray;
he seeks the company of the Lord's people, to hear them speak of Jesus, and tell out the experience of their souls.
He enters upon an entirely new course of conduct--if he has been living in sin.
He does everything from a new motive, and with a new object in view--if he has been moral. He becomes a new creature!


To What Does Conversion Introduce a Man?

1. It introduces him to the enjoyment of the pardon of all his past sins; for feeling the guilt of sin on his conscience, he is concerned to get rid of it, he therefore enquires to ascertain how this can be done, and he is directed to exercise faith in Jesus. He receives into his mind, from God's word and the gospel, right views of Jesus as the able and willing Savior; and exercising confidence in his faithful word and finished work--a sense of pardon springs up in his mind, and he feels in himself that all his sins are forgiven him for Christ's sake.

2. This introduces him to enjoyment of peace with God, for he perceives, that God out of pure love, gave his only Son, to live and die in order to put away his sins; and that Jesus has really put away his sins from the sight of God, so that God can now look upon him and love him, and does look upon him lovingly. This causes all dread of God to depart, all fear of his wrath expires--and confidence in God springs up, which fills the soul with peace and joy. God is now viewed as love, as gracious and merciful, as full of compassion and slow to anger; a perfect reconciliation with God takes place, and friendship and fellowship with God springs up.

3. This introduces to the enjoyment of Christ--whose glorious person, wondrous grace, and perfect work--fixes the mind, fires the affections, and consecrates the whole soul to his praise. Jesus is now precious. His name is as ointment poured forth. His word is as sweet as honey. His ordinances are pleasant and significant. His presence is a little Heaven upon earth. To think of Christ, to read of Christ, to hear of Christ, and to converse of Christ--gives joy and rejoicing to the soul.

4. This introduces to the fellowship of the saints. They alone can sympathize, with us now. They have passed through the same change. They have experienced the same sorrows, and they have felt the same joys. They know . . .
the sweets of pardon,
the pleasures of freedom,
the comfort of peace with God, and
the value of a saving interest in Christ.

They are therefore suitable society, and to meet with them to speak of Jesus, or tell out the experience of the heart, or join in prayer, praise, or some work to extend the cause of Christ--is a pleasure and privilege. Now we can say of the saints, "They are the excellent of the earth, in whom is all my delight."

5. This introduces into the way of holiness: we love holy thoughts, holy people, and holy services. We pray for a holy heart, choose holy employments, and long for a holy Heaven. Holy tempers, holy words, and holy actions--call forth our admiration, and excite our imitation. We . . .
delight in the holy law,
feed on the holy gospel, and
glory in the holy Jesus.
The desire, the object, and the aim of our life, is to be holy in body, soul, and spirit.

6. This introduces us to the joys of Heaven. We taste them even now. In fellowship with the Father and his Son Jesus Christ, in the communion of saints, and in the service of God--we often feel a measure of the joy that is unspeakable and full of glory, At times also, by faith, we seem to anticipate the joy of the Heavenly world, and live almost in the light of glory. Nor will it be long, before we shall enter fully upon it, and
what is imperfect now--will be perfect then;
what is now commenced--will then be consummated;
and what is only occasional now--will then be perpetual, and forever.

If conversion introduces to the enjoyment to pardon and peace, of the presence of Jesus and communion with the saints, to the way of holiness and the joys of Heaven--why should any one dislike it, or fear lest they should he converted?

Why Do Some Dislike Conversion? That many do, beside the young men that I have referred to, is evident--or they would seek it, and make use of every means likely to lead to it.

It arises from the pride of human nature. Man is a proud creature, and the idea of being humbled before God, confessing sin to God, and seeking to be saved by the free grace of God alone--is so repugnant to the pride of human nature, that the sinner naturally revolts at it!

To be nothing, to do nothing with a view to merit at the hands of God, to be on a level with the vilest of the vile--proud nature cannot consent to this!

To give up one's own opinions, and adopt adverse ones; to renounce one's own righteousness, and stoop to be justified for the sake of another; in a word to adopt another's name, trust in another's merit, and seek in all we do, think, or say--to bring honor to another's work, grace, and character--is what unsanctioned human nature can never approve of--therefore it objects to be converted.

That many dislike God's method of salvation, arises from the love of sin, which has become natural and pleasant, for the sinner enjoys sin--and looks upon holiness as gloomy and repulsive. He will not give up his pride, or his covetousness, or his indulgence of the carnal appetites.

What! Give up the world!

What! Forsake the mirthful party, the dance, the ballroom, the race course, the theater, the various scenes of carnal pleasure and fleshly indulgence!

What! Pore over the Bible, shut oneself up in the prayer closet, go to the prayer-meeting, attend service on weekdays as well as Sundays, and meet to talk about Christ! No, no! that can never be! Therefore they will not consent to be converted.

Then, there is the enmity of the heart against God, the sinner is very backward to admit this--but it is too clear to be denied--God's word states it in so many words, and man's conduct proves it. Does he not . . .
chose what God prohibits,
love what God hates, and
do just what God forbids?

If a man was not at enmity with God, would he . . .
shun his company,
avoid his presence,
refuse to listen to his messages,
and allow his word to remain unread?

Tis true, too true, that "the carnal mind is enmity against God, it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be."

The heart must be changed--or God can never be loved, served, or enjoyed.

Then, there is also positive unbelief--man will not believe God. Does God speak to him . . .
of the true nature of sin and holiness,
of the pleasures of true religion,
of the need of a Savior,
of the glory and excellency of Christ,
of the joys of Heaven, or the pains of Hell
--man does not believe him! If he did believe, he would be affected by what God says. But as God's word produces no effect, or no lasting effect upon him, it is clear, that he does not believe him. While therefore man . . .
indulges in the pride of his heart,
loves sin,
nourishes enmity against God,
disbelieves his word, and
thus yields to the Prince of darkness
--he must dislike conversion.


How Do Some Try to Prevent Conversion?

They refuse to read plain, pointed, awakening books on the subject, which would be likely to convert them.

They avoid hearing rousing, energetic, soul-affecting preachers, who are used to bring many to God.

They turn away from some Christians, who will personally address them, and manifest concern for their soul's salvation.

They do all they can to get rid of convictions, and serious impressions, whenever they feel them.

They indulge in light, trifling, soul-deceiving amusements, and keep company with the frivolous, thoughtless, or profane.

In a word, they avoid what would be likely to bring them to God, and humble their hearts before him; and they indulge in those things which would lead them further from him, and harden their hearts against him. They are afraid, "Lest THEY should be converted."

Reader! Man must be converted--or be lost forever! As he is, God can have no fellowship with him! Heaven is no place for him--he could not possibly be happy there. His nature, his tastes, his habits are all against it; therefore our Lord said, "Truly, I say unto you, Except you are converted, and become as little children, you shall never enter into the kingdom of Heaven!"

Many will run the risk of being lost, rather than seek to be converted. If God promises a new heart to the seeker--they will not seek it. If God promises the Holy Spirit to those who ask--they will not ask. If Jesus invites them to come to him, that he may save them, and confer all spiritual blessings upon them--they will not come. If the Holy Spirit comes near them, they say, "Depart from us!" If he strives with them--they resist him. If he presents the free and full salvation of the gospel to them--they put it away from them.

Some people may read these lines, who have been afraid to be converted. My friends, do you know what you are afraid of? You are really afraid of being made truly happy, immensely rich, and eternally honorable! You are afraid of having God for a Father instead of a foe--of having Jesus for a Savior, instead of a Judge--of having the Holy Spirit for a Comforter, Teacher, and Guide. You are afraid of that which would place you under the guardianship of God, entitle you to all the promises of God's word, and the glories of Heaven at death. Yield to such foolish infatuation no longer--but listen to the words of the Holy Spirit, "Repent and be converted--that your sins may be blotted out." Repent and turn yourself from all transgressions, so iniquity shall not be your ruin!

My friend, I know not what your trouble may be

My friend, I know not what your trouble may be

(James Smith, "The Pastor's Evening Visit")

"If I were you--I would seek unto God! I would lay my cause before Him!" Job 5:8

This is sound advice. It is much better than . . .
seeking unto men, or
poring over troubles, or
indulging a gloomy imagination, or
giving way to fears.

My friend, I know not what your trouble may be--but "If I were you--I would seek unto God!"

If I was in perplexity--I would seek unto God for wisdom.

If I was in sorrow--I would seek unto God for comfort.

If I was in weakness--I would seek unto God for strength.

If I was under guilt--I would seek unto God for pardon.

If I was in a severe conflict--I would seek unto God for victory.

If I was in doubt and fear--I would seek unto God for confidence and a sense of His favor.

If I was harassed by Satan--I would seek unto almighty God for protection.

If I was afraid of falling--I would seek unto God to uphold me with His omnipotent arm.

If I was alarmed at death--I would seek for His presence to comfort me.

Whatever you need--seek it from God!

Whatever you fear--carry it to God!

Whatever troubles you--lay it before God!

You cannot seek unto Him in vain, or without profit!

"If I were you--I would seek unto God! I would lay my cause before Him!"

What we love...

Now, let me show you, beloved, what it is in salvation that the thoughtful believer loves; and I may begin by saying that he loves, best of all, the Savior himself. Often our Lord is called Salvation, because he is the great worker of it, the author and finisher, the Alpha and the Omega of it. He who has Christ has salvation; and, as he is the essence of salvation, he is the center of the saved ones’ affection.

Have you, beloved, carefully considered that Jesus is divine, that he counts it not robbery to be equal with God, being our Creator and Preserver, as well as our Redeemer? Do you fully understand that our Lord is infinite, eternal, nothing less than God; and yet for our sakes he took upon himself our nature, was clothed in that nature with all its infirmities, sin alone excepted, and in that nature agonized, bled, and died, the just for the unjust, that he might bring us to God. Oh, marvel of marvels, miracle of miracles! The immortal Lord stoops to death; the Prince of glory bows to be spit upon. Shame and dishonor could not make him start back from his blessed purpose, but to the death of the cross he surrendered himself.

O, you who are saved, do you not love Christ, who is your salvation ? Do you not feel a burning desire to behold him as he is ? Is not his presence, even now, a nether heaven to you ? Will not a face to face view of his glory be all the heaven that your utmost stretch of imagination can conceive ? I know it is so. Your heart is bound to Jesus, his name is set as a seal upon it; therefore, I charge you to say continually, “Let God be magnified.” Glory be to the Father who gave his Son, to the Son who gave himself, to the Spirit who revealed all this to us. Triune God, be thou extolled for ever and ever.

The Law of Your Mother!

The Law of Your Mother!

by James Smith, 1861


"Do not forsake the law of your mother!" Proverbs 1:8

A mother's influence is great; a mother's love is strong. Every mother therefore should endeavor to use her influence wisely, and for her child's eternal good. A very great responsibility rests upon godly mothers, which they should realize, and realizing--should act under a sense of it. The mother's life--should be the child's lesson; and the mother's words--should be the child's law. The authority of the mother--is essentially the authority of love; and the teachings of the mother--should be the teachings of love. With these thoughts in the mind, we want to enforce the inspired admonition to the young, for

The OBJECT to Be Regarded. A godly mother's law. O what a privilege to have a godly mother! One who knows . . .
the value of the soul,
the person of the Savior,
the way of salvation, and
the power of vital piety in her own heart.

Such a mother will teach her child . . .
to value what is really important and spiritual;
to secure a saving interest in eternal felicity;
to avoid the sinful and the dangerous;
to do the necessary and the moral;
to enjoy the lawful and the profitable;
to prepare for the future and eternal.

In a word, she will enforce on her child the advice of the Savior, "Seek first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness." The salvation of the child's soul--will be nearest her heart. The early and entire consecration of her child to God--will be the object at which she aims. For this she will teach, and pray and act. Nor will less than this, ever satisfy her maternal mind.

Every child should . . .
carefully attend to a mother's teaching,
treasure up a mother's lessons,
bear in mind the object of a mother's prayers,
and endeavor to carry out a mother's wishes.

Notice then,

The TEMPTATION to Be Resisted. When young people leave home, and enter into a place of business, or some school to learn a trade, or a profession--they find themselves surrounded by new circumstances. They often fall in with new companions, and are plied with new temptations.

Away from home, away from under a mother's eye, out of the reach of the sound of a mother's voice--they are apt to forget the law of their mother. They once thought that they never would, never could--but they do!

Not only so, they are tempted to forsake a mother's law, and adopt a new and untried rule of life, perhaps the very opposite to that which their mother gave them.

Then they begin to pursue a different course, and a downward course too. This is smooth and easy at first. The flesh is pleased, youthful lusts are gratified, bad habits are contracted, and death, eternal death, is sought in the error of their ways! O how many young men, how many young women, have been ruined, by forsaking the law of their mother! Hence,

The ADMONITION, "Do not forsake the law of your mother."

Think of a mother's love--so strong, so tender, and so constant.

Think of a mother's wisdom--implanted in her heart, by your mother's God.

Think of a mother's concern for her child--how deep, how lively, how uninterrupted.

A child may forget its mother--but the mother will never forget her child. The child's interest in its mother may die out--but the mother's interest in her child never will.

A mother's love--is an undying love.

A mother's wisdom--is quick and inventive.

A mother's concern for her offspring--is as lasting as her life.

Think of meeting your mother before God in judgment! Then her lessons will all be revived in your memory--then her prayers and tears will come up before you anew. Then she will rejoice in your salvation--OR acquiesce in the sentence of the just judge, when he bids you to depart from him into everlasting fire, prepared for the devil and his angels! Yes, your mother will acquiesce in what is just, even in the eternal condemnation of her child--as a hardened, persevering rebel against God!

O how solemn the thought--a mother obliged to agree to the banishment of her child from God and eternal glory--unto eternal Hell! Think of having the image of your mother--a holy mother, a glorified mother--stamped upon your memory forever in Hell. Think of hearing that tender, touching voice--warning, entreating, and beseeching you to flee to Jesus--stamped upon your mind forever in Hell. Think of having the law of your mother, and the efforts of your mother to save you--ever before you, when all hope is gone, and every way of escape is barred, and barred forever!

Think of how you may now add to her joy, by deciding for God; OR increase her sorrow, by going on still in your trespasses.

Young man, young woman, by all the tenderness of a mother's love, by the intense concern of a mother's heart--if you would not shorten the days of her life, or embitter her dying hours, I beseech you, "Do not forsake the law of your mother!"

By the dread thought of meeting your mother as a witness against you at the final judgment, and hearing her testify her approval of the sentence of condemnation, pronounced on you, by the Savior you have insulted and rejected--I beseech you, "Do not forsake the law of your mother!"

By the horrid thought of being . . .
haunted by the remembrance of your mother's form,
tormented by the remembrance of your mother's prayers,
and pierced through and through with the recollection of your mother's tears--in Hell forever; I beseech you, "Do not forsake the law of your mother!"

As you may greatly add to your mother's joys, OR increase your mother's sorrows; by all the love of a child, by the duty of a child--I beg you, "Do not forsake the law of your mother!"

Few realize the value of a mother as they should, while they have one--especially a godly mother. But when death has done its work in her, when her soul has departed, to look at a mother's corpse, to follow the coffin that contains a mother's remains, or to stand by a mother's grave--will awaken strange thoughts, new feelings, and perhaps bitter regrets. While you have a mother--love her, obey her, and make her heart glad.

Many forget and forsake the law of their mother, when away from her. This is unwise, it is unkind, it is ungrateful. A mother's advice . . .
is unselfish;
it is only for her child's good,
it is the offspring of the deepest love, and
often the result of the most earnest fervent prayers.

But fascinated by our companions,
deceived by an unbelieving heart,
allured by a false and vain world, and
ensnared by a cruel and crafty devil
--too many of our young people forsake the law of their mother! Many will wish--but wish in vain, that they never had such a mother!
It will increase their condemnation,
it will add to their torments, and
will give intensity to the bitter pangs generated by hopeless despair!
The thoughts of what their mother was, what their mother did, and how their mother tried to prevent their ruin--will make Hell ten times hotter than it would otherwise be--to many a child of godly parents.

But on the other hand, many will bless God forever for . . .
a mother's love,
a mother's example,
and a mother's law.

That love--won the heart for Jesus;
that example--was a constant lesson of warning, reproof and instruction;
and that law--constrained the soul to bow to the scepter of Jesus, and trust alone in his blessed name.

Young friends, endeavor to realize the value of a godly mother, while you have one! Never, never, let anyone, or anything tempt you to forsake her law--lest in Hell you should bitterly and eternally regret it! But let a mother's love, a mother's example, and a mother's law lead you at once to Jesus--that you may meet your mother with joy at last, and dwell with her in Heaven forever!

A weaned soul

Brethren, it often happens that the loss of dear friends, or the treachery of those we trusted, or bodily sickness, or depression of spirit, may help to unloose the holdfasts which enchain us to this life; and then we are enabled to say with David in one of the most precious little Psalms in the whole Book, the 131st, “I have behaved and quieted myself as a child that is weaned of his mother, my soul is even as a weaned child.” I have often thought that if David had said, “my soul is even as a weaning child,” it would have been far more like most of God’s people. But to be weaned, quite weaned from the world, to turn away from her consolations altogether, this it is which makes us cry, “Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace.” Even as the psalmist when he said, “And now, Lord, what wait I for? my hope is in thee.”

The King's Highway

The King's Highway

James Smith, 1861


"Set your heart toward the highway." Jeremiah 31:21

In anticipation of the expiration of the seventy years' captivity in Babylon, the prophet Jeremiah was directed and inspired by the Holy Spirit, to stimulate, encourage, and direct the Jews in reference to their return to their own land. And among other things he said to them, "Set your heart toward the highway" — the way by which many of them were brought into Babylon, and the way by which all of them must return. Now as there was a highway from Babylon to Zion — so there is a highway from earth to Heaven, and to this I wish now to direct attention.


The Object. The highway, that is Jesus — for he is the way, and no man comes to the Father but by him. Now this is the way that just suits sinners, and it is the only way that will suit them.

It suits them, because it is a way in which we can get rid of sin. We no sooner enter on this way, than we get rid of . . .
the guilt of sin from the conscience,
the power of sin from the heart,
the practice of sin from the life, and
the penal consequences of sin from the person.

It is a way in which we acquire a title to property. When a government wishes to colonize, it often offers a grant of property to emigrants, to induce them to leave their native land, and sail for a far-off country. So when we enter upon Christ, the highway to the land of glory — we acquire a title to an inheritance which is incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fades not away.

It is a way in which we find provision made for the entire journey. What Joseph said in reference to his brethren, "Give them provision for the way," Jesus does in reference to all who seek to go to glory by him. Here we find strength and wisdom, comfort and courage, the bread of life, and the waters of salvation! No one can faint by the way, or fail of reaching the end, from lack of provision. There is provision made for us from the first step out of a state of sin, until we step into glory.

There is, in this way, the certainty of a safe arrival. The righteous shall hold on his way. No funeral was ever seen on this highway. No bleached bones of pilgrims who had sunk and perished along the road, were ever seen here. All who enter upon Christ, all who start aright — arrive safe at the journey's end.

O blessed way, where we . . .
get rid of all sin and its consequences,
get an unquestionable title to Heaven,
find plentiful provision for our journey, and
prove that as our day, so is our strength, until we arrive at Mount Zion!

This way is PLAIN, the simplest mind cannot mistake it — it is only believe, trust in Christ alone, venture wholly on Christ — and you shall be saved.

It is a WELL-TRODDEN way, for from the days of righteous Abel until now, pilgrims more or less numerous have trodden this way. Millions have proved it to be suitable, safe, and certain!

It is very often found to be a SHORT way. The thief on the cross found it so, and so have many others. They have stepped out of self on to Christ — and have passed in a very brief space of time, to glory. It is just the way to suit weak, weary, and dying sinners.

It is a FREE way, no toll-booths, no fees, no conditions — all is free. Whoever will, may enter on it, pass along it, and reach the home of the blessed by it.

It is a PUBLIC way — the king's highway. The nobleman may walk with the peasant, and the pauper with the king. The publican and harlot have the same right to use it — as the most chaste and moral. Upright and moral character is not required. Whoever will, may come, and travel unmolested to the heavenly Canaan!

It is a LIVING way. It gives life. It increases life. It ensures life. It introduces to everlasting life. Death never set his foot on it, nor ever will.

It is the ONLY way. By this way, anyone can get to eternal glory — but by no other. By this way, the greatest number, of the greatest sinners, may escape from the wrath to come. But by no other way can anyone reach the promised land. O that it were thronged by perishing souls, hastening from earth to Heaven!


The Exhortation. Set your heart toward the highway! Reader, do you need this exhortation? Or, are you on this road? Don't try any bye-path — neither pope nor prelate, priest nor presbyter, ceremony nor sacrament — but come to Christ at once — venture on Christ alone. Direct the eye to this highway — let the heart move in the dirction of it, be sure you enter upon it, persevere in it, and think often of the glorious end to which it leads.

Do not imagine that you are in the way — when you are not. Do not be deceived by a dream. But make sure work of it. In the way — you are safe; but out of it — you are lost forever! Are you willing to leave the Babylon of this world? Many to whom Jeremiah spoke were not willing to leave Babylon of old, and therefore they perished there. Will you start for Mount Zion at once? For what should you wait? Why should you delay? What will you get by it? Rather, what will you lose? If you are willing, listen to the prophets advice, "Set your heart toward the highway!"

Make up your mind then, solemnly, seriously, deliberately make up your mind. Be determined to escape from eternal wrath, to obtain salvation, to find a home in the promised land.

Never rest outside of this way. Do not rest in mere desires, resolves or wishes — but enter upon the way, make thorough work of it.

The entrance is strait and narrow. You must strip, and give up self, sin, and the world — and then you pass through it. There is plenty of room for the sinner, the naked sinner, any naked sinner — but only the naked sinner.

The way is narrow — but it is wide enough for you. Greater sinners than you, have traveled this way, and gone singing from earth to Heaven. As flagrant sinners as you, have entered the strait gate, and journeyed along the narrow way — the grace that enabled them, will enable you. It is only . . .
repent, or change your mind, which has been to live in sin, reject Christ, and go with the world;
believe, or venture on Christ, trust in Jesus, commit yourself to him, renouncing all and everything beside;
give God the heart, the whole heart, the heart just as it is! Give it him to cleanse, adorn, and save
— and thus make a start for eternal glory.

Is there any difficulty finding the way? Be sure you ask of those who know. Take the prophet's representation for your example, "In those days, at that time, the people of Israel and the people of Judah together will go in tears to seek the Lord their God. They will ask the way to Zion and turn their faces toward it. They will come and bind themselves to the Lord in an everlasting covenant that will not be forgotten."

Imitate Israel in the days of Jeroboam, who withstood the temptation of the King, and "set their hearts to seek the Lord God of Israel." So you will enjoy the blessing of which David sung, "Blessed are those whose strength is in you, who have set their hearts on pilgrimage. As they pass through the Valley of Baca, they make it a place of springs; the autumn rains also cover it with pools. They go from strength to strength, until each appears before God in Zion!"

Beloved, there is a way . . .
from earth — to Heaven,
from sin — to holiness,
from condemnation — to justification,
from eternal death — to eternal life!

That way is Jesus, to that way you are welcome. In that way you may walk and . . .
find peace with God,
enjoy communion with Jesus,
escape dangers, and
obtain everlasting life.

You will either walk in it — or you will not. If you will not, there is but one other way, and that is the way of eternal death! ""Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But small is the gate and narrow the road that leads to life, and only a few find it!" Matthew 7:13-14.

Therefore Jesus exhorts in another place. "Strive to enter in at the strait gate" — strive as if in an agony — as if eternal life and eternal glory depended upon it — strive, nor leave off striving, until you are safe through the gate, and traveling in the way to eternal glory!

The sword of His pure, infinite, and incensed wrath!

The sword of His pure, infinite, and incensed wrath!

(Thomas Brooks, "The Golden Key to Open Hidden Treasures")

"Yet it was the Lord's will to crush Him and cause Him to suffer" Isaiah 53:10

To see God thrust the sword of His pure, infinite, and incensed wrath through the very heart of His dearest Son, notwithstanding all His supplications, prayers, tears, and strong cries--is the highest manifestation of the Lord's hatred and indignation of sin--which ever was, or ever will be!

It is true, God revealed His great hatred against sin . . .
by casting the angels down to hell, and
by turning Adam out of paradise, and
by drowning the old world, and
by raining hell out of heaven upon Sodom and Gomorrah,
and by the various and dreadful judgments which He has been a-pouring forth upon the world in all ages. But all this hatred is but an emblem of hatred--compared to that hatred which God manifested against sin, in causing the whole curse to meet upon our crucified Lord!

It is true that God reveals His hatred of sin by those endless, easeless, and remediless torments, which He inflicts upon devils and damned men. But this is no hatred--compared to that hatred against sin, which God revealed when He opened all the floodgates of His envenomed wrath upon His Son--His own Son, His only Son, His Son who always pleased Him.

Suppose there was a father who had but one son--and he was such a son in whom he always delighted, and by whom he had never been provoked. Now suppose you should you see this father inflicting the most intensified pains and punishments, tortures and torments, calamities and miseries upon this, his dearest son. Would you not wonder at the cause of the father's exercising such amazing, such matchless severity, fury and cruelty upon his only beloved son?

Now cast your eye upon the actings of God the Father towards Jesus Christ--and you will find that He has inflicted more and greater torments upon the Son of His dearest love--than all mortals ever have or could inflict upon others. God made all the penalties and sufferings that were due to us--to fall upon Jesus Christ. God Himself inflicted upon dear Jesus, whatever was requisite to the satisfying of His justice, to the obtaining of pardon, and to the saving of all His elect!

"He was pierced for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities; the punishment that brought us peace was upon Him, and by His wounds we are healed." Isaiah 53:5

Sitting at the Feet of Jesus

Discipleship is too often forgotten; it is as needful as faith. We are to go into all the world and disciple all nations, baptising them into the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. A man cannot be saved unless he becomes a learner in the school of Christ, and a learner, too, in a practical sense, being willing to practice what he learns. Only he who does the Master’s will knows his doctrine.

We are, if we have chosen the good part, sitters at the feet of Jesus, just as Saul of Tarsus sat at the feet of Gamaliel; Christ is to us our great Instructor, and we take the law from his lips. The believer’s position is that of a pupil, and the Lord Jesus is his teacher. Except we be converted and become as little children, we can in no wise enter into the kingdom of heaven. Sitting at the feet of Jesus indicates the child-like spirit of true discipleship; and this is the one thing needful: there is no salvation apart from it.

I Do Not Change!

I Do Not Change!

James Smith, 1861


"I am the Lord — I do not change!" Malachi 3:6

Every created thing is liable to change.

Angels have changed — and become devils.

Man has changed — and become a sinner.

The world has changed — and lost its original beauty and excellence.

The seasons change — winter gives place to spring, spring to summer, summer to autumn, and autumn to winter again.

Our feelings change — the sad gives place to the joyous, and the joyous to the sad again.

Our circumstances change — the poor become rich, and the rich become poor.

Our relations change — some are removed by death, others to a far distance, and some become alienated from us.

All within and without us will change, and there may be greater changes than we have ever witnessed yet.

But amidst all the changes we have experienced within, or witness without — we have one unfailing source of comfort: the Lord never changes! He is the same, and will be the same forever. He is in one mind, and none can turn him. Let us then seek to be impressed with this cheering declaration made by God himself, "I am the Lord — I do not change!"

Blessed be his holy name — with him change is impossible!

Here is our rock — on which we may rest secure!

Here is one friend — on whom we may always depend!

An unchanging God, lays an unchangeable foundation for our faith, hope, and comfort. With David, therefore, amidst all the changes of life we may sing, "The Lord lives, and blessed be my rock; and let the God of my salvation be exalted!" What the Lord was to David — he now is to us; and what he now is — he ever will be.

There can be no change in his LOVE to his redeemed people. Other's may cease to love us, may turn against us, and even hate us — but if the Lord love us once, he loves us forever. Having loved his own that are in the world — he loves them unto the end. His love is everlasting. It is like his nature — eternal. If the Lord loves me in January — he will love me in June; and if he loves me in June — he will love me in December. The God of love, who has set his love upon us, says, "I do not change." Go back as far as we will, we shall never arrive at the beginning of his love; and go forward as far as we may, we shall never come to the end of it. The love of God is eternal love.

There can be no change in his PURPOSES.
Originating as they do in the highest wisdom,
formed as they are for the glorifying of his own nature,
comprehending as they do all our needs, and
aiming as they do at our welfare
— they are unchangeable.

According to his eternal purpose, which he purposed in Christ Jesus our Lord — he arranged all things that concern his people, both on earth and in Heaven. And now he works all things, after the counsel of his own will.

All his purposes culminate in this one point — to do us the greatest good, and in so doing to get himself the greatest glory. God's purposes embrace all the days of the year, and all the events of every day in the year; and, therefore, though I know not what may take place, I know that all things shall work together for good to those who love God, and are the called according to his purpose.

There can be no change in his PROMISES to his redeemed people. The word of the Lord stands forever, and the thoughts of his heart unto all generations. God has made many exceeding great and very precious promises:
they embrace all his people,
they provide for all our needs,
they forbid all our doubts and fears,
and they secure to us all possible good.

There is a promise . . .
for every day,
to meet every trial,
to cheer every believer, and
to give us confidence under all the changes of life.

By the promises, God pledges himself to his people, and engages to . . .
supply all their needs,
conquer all their foes, and
glorify himself in all their changes.

God's promises are as immutable as his nature, for Heaven and earth may pass away — but his words shall never pass away. Man may break his word — but God cannot; man may change his mind — but God will not.

There can be no change in his RELATION to his redeemed people. Is God is my Father today — he will be my Father forever.

For me, he will ever feel a father's love;
over me, he will ever exercise a a father's care;
to deliver me, he will ever stretch out a father's hand.

Earthly parents may cease to love their children, may cease to care for their offspring, may refuse to help those who ought to be dear to them as life itself — but it can never be so with God! He asks, "Can a woman forget her nursing child, that she should not have compassion on the son of her womb?" He admits, "Yes, they may forget." But he adds, "Yet will I never forget you."

Correct us he may, he will, if we need it — but turn his back upon us, close his door on us, or shut up his heart against us — he never will!

There can be no change in his SYMPATHY. Through Jesus, God has a fellow feeling with his people; he is touched with a sense of their infirmities; in all their afflictions, he is afflicted. His heart throbs in unison with theirs. He ever makes their bed in their sickness.

He is full of compassion.

He is plenteous in mercy.

He is ready to forgive.

He waits to be gracious.

Let who will, become hardened against us — let who will, fail to sympathize with us — the Lord never will. "We may therefore rejoice in the prospect of all the changes that may take place in the future, and say, "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble. Therefore we will not fear!"

Does the Lord say to us, "I do not change!" Then he encourages us to trust him with an unshaken confidence. We may trust him at all times. We may trust him with what we value most. We may trust him to make good in our experience, every promise in his word. However the dispensations of his providence may change — he will remain the same, in his love, purposes, and sympathy to us. Therefore we may say with Job, "Though he slays me — yet will I trust in him." Let us endeavor to exercise a full, steady, and constant trust in the Lord from day to day, remembering that, "those who trust in the Lord shall be as Mount Zion, which cannot be removed — but abides forever!"

Does the Lord say to us, "I do not change!" Then we may go to him in all our trials, difficulties, and troubles! We may pour out our hearts before him, plead his precious promises, and expect answers of peace from him. He who heard and answered Jacob — will hear and answer us. He who listened to David and delivered him — will listen to and deliver us. He who appeared for Israel in the desert as their circumstances required — will appear for us as ours may require. Abraham's God is ours, and he will be to us what he was to Abraham — even our shield, and our exceeding great reward.

Does the Lord say to us, "I do not change!" Then let us rejoice and be glad, for God's immutability will be . . .
the ground of our security,
the source of our comfort, and
the foundation of our peace.

What shall we fear — with God, the unchangeable God on our side? Of whom shall we be afraid — with the omnipotent and immutable Jehovah, to take our part? Beloved, let us anew surrender ourselves to God, exercising confidence in God, and engaging to work for God.

Lost sinner, if God will not change — then you must, or your end will be fearful. He has said, "The wicked shall be turned into Hell, and all the nations that forget God." You are either wicked — or righteous, depraved — or holy; if the former, your doom is dreadful, except you repent. Change — God will not; change — you must, or . . .
die without mercy,
perish without pity, and
be punished without end!

O come to Jesus, and obtain pardon, peace, and everlasting life!

Quote

As Thomas Watson has said, "God is the best friend--but the worst enemy! If He can look men into their grave, how far can He throw them? What fools are they, who, for a drop of pleasure--drink a sea of wrath!"

Friend or foe?

Friend or foe?

(J.G. Pike, "Guide for Young Disciples of the Holy Savior")

"Can your heart endure, or can your hands be strong--in the day that I shall deal with you?" Ezekiel 22:14

The power and justice of God are armed with ten thousand terrors against every one who is not His child!

The love and goodness of God display ten thousand charms to every one who is!

O how dreadful must it be to have Him for a foe--whose thunders, lightnings, earthquakes, tempests, and pestilences can sweep millions to the grave in a moment! whose command would extinguish the sun, and crush the universe to nothing!

"Consider this, you who forget God--lest I tear you in pieces!" Psalm 50:22

But how inexpressibly desirable is such a friend--a friend . . .
whose knowledge no enemy can elude,
whose power none can resist,
whose wisdom none can baffle, and
whose love none can comprehend!

O why are you concerned about anything but God!

"As surely as I live, when I sharpen My flashing sword and begin to carry out justice--I will bring vengeance on My enemies and repay those who hate Me!" Deuteronomy 32:41

The oil of joy for mourning

“To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness, that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, that he might be glorified.” — Isaiah 61:3.

Here we have first beauty, and then unction. The Orientals used rich perfumed oils on their persons — used them largely and lavishly in times of great joy. Now, the Holy Spirit comes upon those who believe in Jesus, and gives them an anointing of perfume, most precious, more sweet and costly than the herd of Araby. An unction, such as royalty has never received, sheds its costly moisture over all the redeemed when the Spirit of the Lord rests upon them. “We have an unction from the Holy One,” saith the apostle. “Thou anointest my head with oil, my cup runneth over.”

Oh, how favored are those who have the Spirit of God upon them! You remember that the oil which was poured on Aaron’s head went down to the skirts of his garment, so that the same oil was on his skirts that had been on his head. It is the same Spirit that rests on the believer as that which rests on Jesus Christ, and he that is joined unto Christ is one Spirit. What favor is here! Instead of mourning, the Christian shall receive the Holy Spirit, the Comforter who shall take of the things of Christ, and reveal them unto him, and make him not merely glad, but honored and esteemed.

The Simplicity of the Word

Suppose the sacred volume had all been like the book of the prophet Ezekiel, small would have been its service to the generality of mankind. Imagine that the entire volume had been as mysterious as the Book of Revelation: it might have been our duty to study it, but if its benefit depended upon our understanding it, we should have failed to attain it. But how simple are the gospels, how plain these words, “He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved;” how deliciously clear those parables about the lost piece of money, the lost sheep, and the prodigal son.

Wherever the word touches upon vital points, it is as bright as a sunbeam. Mysteries there are, and profound doctrines, deeps where Leviathan can swim; but, where it has to do immediately with what concerns us for eternity, it is so plain that the babe in grace may safely wade in its refreshing streams. In the gospel narrative the wayfaring man, though a fool, need not err. It is familiar talk; it is God’s great mind brought down to our littleness, that it may lift us up.

How Old Are You?

How Old Are You?
James Smith, 1861


Birthdays are solemn days, they remind us of our entrance into the world, and direct our thoughts forward to the period when we shall leave it. Like milestones on the road of life, they inform us how far we have traveled — but say not one word about how far we have to go! Every mile sensibly lessens the distance between us and our journey's end. Today I am reminded of a passage in Old Testament history, "And Pharaoh said unto Jacob: How old are you?" Genesis 47:8. What a touching question! How calculated to awaken solemn thoughts, and to call up interesting reminiscences! Let us glance at,


The two PARTIES.

A sovereign — and a subject.

The greatest monarch of his day — and a plain unsophisticated shepherd.

One accustomed to rule in courts — and one in the habit of dwelling in tents.

A citizen of the world — and an old pilgrim to mount Zion.

One who was of the world, and at home in the world — and one who was only passing through the world, to take possession of a better country.

An idolatrous sinner — and a saint of the Most High God.

One who had no clear or correct conception of the divine nature and character — and one who knew God, and walked in daily fellowship with him.

A greater contrast could not be, than between the patriarch Jacob — and the monarch Pharaoh.

Pharaoh appears to have had some excellent qualities, and in many points to have been a fine character — but he was . . .
a stranger to God,
a worshiper of dumb idols, and
was led captive by the devil at his will.

Jacob had many faults, and some striking defects — but he was a friend of God, walking with him in peace and righteousness.

The pilgrim was introduced to the king, who perhaps to make him feel at ease during his interview, or from some other good motive, proposed the question, "How old are you?"


Let us look at the INQUIRY.

Questions may be meddlesome — and should not be answered.

Questions may be offensive — and should not be noticed.

Questions may be mischievous — and should call forth a serious reply.

This sincere question by Pharaoh may have been called forth by the patriarch's venerable looks. What a beautiful sight is a fine old man! His locks are silver. His brow is wrinkled. His cheeks have fallen in. His voice is tremulous. His form stoops. All unite to excite veneration, and may therefore well prompt the question, "How old are you?"

It may have been curiosity on the part of the king, or even a benevolent feeling, which led him to make the inquiry — but whatever it was, it may be turned to very good account. Let us take it home, and examine ourselves by it.


How old am I NATURALLY? I was once a babe, and then a youth — but I am such no longer.

This should awaken REFLECTION — and lead us to remember all the way which the Lord our God has led us in the wilderness.

It should produce GRATITUDE. How many have been cut down younger, and cut down unprepared. How many are in Hell now — who were born since we were! How many have sunk in poverty, been crushed by troubles, or been hurried out of time into eternity — by disease.

It should lead us to REPENTANCE. This is always the design of God's goodness. This is also its tendency to a gracious heart. Upon how many points, we have seen reason to change our minds. For how much that we have done, we have reason to weep bitter tears. How necessary it is on some points, to change our course. Can we attend to this question, and not reflect on the past? Can we reflect on the past — and not be grateful? Can we reflect, and be grateful, and not repent, and turn again unto the Lord?

Let us then improve the question, for some neglect it — but it cannot harm us, and it may do us good.

How LONG have I lived? Twenty — thirty — forty — fifty — perhaps sixty years?

To what PURPOSE have I lived? Have I secured my salvation? Have I served my generation? Is the world better for me being in it all these years? Have those about me reason to bless God for me? How would I live — if I had my time over again? Would I DO — just as I have done? would I BE — just what I have been?

What has been the grand end of my life? Have I lived to myself, or to him who died for me, and rose again? Have I lived to enlighten others by my knowledge, to help others with my property, to bless others through my influence?


How old am I SPIRITUALLY? This question is more important than the former one. Better never be born at all — if we are not born again. Our first birth will prove a curse — without the second birth. The first birth only fits us for earth, where, if left to ourselves — we fit ourselves for Hell! But the second birth fits us for Heaven.

If we are born again, can we tell anything about the time when? Can we remember when we were convinced of sin, felt our need of a Savior, and fled for refuge to lay hold on the hope set before us. That was the time of our new birth. But the time of the new birth is of little or no importance — compared with the fact itself. The great question is, AM I born again? Do I believe in Jesus? Is salvation mine?

If we are born again — where are the proofs? Who is the better for it? Are our relations, our children, our neighbors? Even the animals which serve us, or live to please and amuse us — will be the better for our religion, if it is genuine.

Whether our lives have been long or short — we have lived long enough to have LEARNED more; and if we were not great dunces — we would have done so!

We have lived long enough to have GAINED more, for we have had some fine opportunities. Grace was to be had for asking for, and our talents may not only have been improved — but increased, yes doubled — if we had been wise.

We have lived long enough to have DONE more. Alas! how little we have done for God, for Christ, for the Church, and for the souls of men — and how very imperfectly has that been done, which we have performed. O if we had but realized our responsibility, if we had but been zealous for our God and his glory, if we had but been fired with the love of Christ — how much might we have done, during the life we have lived here below!

How shall we act NOW? Let us flee to the open fountain — to wash away our stains; let us repair to the throne of grace — that we may find mercy, and obtain grace to help us; and then let us begin life afresh, determined if we live — to live unto the Lord; or if we die — to die unto the Lord; so that whether we live or die we may be the Lord's!

They are preaching up the devil's old, favorite doctrine!

They are preaching up the devil's old, favorite doctrine!

(J.C. Ryle)

There is such a place as Hell. Let no one deceive you with vain words. What people do not like--they try hard not to believe. When the Lord Jesus Christ comes to judge the world, He will punish all who are not His disciples with a fearful punishment!

All who are found unrepentant and unbelieving;
all who have clung to sin;
all who have set their affections on worldly things;
all who are without Christ--
all such shall come to a dreadful end! "Anyone whose name was not found recorded in the Book of Life--was thrown into the Lake of Fire!" Revelation 20:15

1) I know that some people do not believe that there is any Hell at all. They think it impossible, that there can be such a place. They call it inconsistent with the mercy of God. They say that it is too awful an idea to be really true. The devil of course, rejoices in the views of such people. They help his kingdom mightily. They are preaching up the devil's old, favorite doctrine, "You shall not surely die!" Genesis 3:4

2) I know furthermore, that some do not believe that Hell is eternal! They tell us it is incredible, that a compassionate God will punish people forever. They imagine that He will surely open the prison doors of Hell at last. This also is a mighty help to the devil's cause.

3) I know also that some believe that there is a Hell--but never allow that anybody is going there! They imagine that . . .
all people are good,
all are sincere,
all mean well, and
all, they hope, will go to Heaven when they die!
Alas! what a common delusion is this!

If I never spoke of Hell--I would think I had kept back something that was profitable, and would look on myself as an accomplice of the devil.

Reader, I beseech you, in all tender affection--beware of false views of the subject on which I have been dwelling. Beware of new and strange doctrines about Hell and the eternity of punishment. Beware of manufacturing a god of your own:
a god who is all mercy--but not just;
a god who is all love--but not holy;
a god who has a Heaven for everybody--but a Hell for none;
a god who will make no distinction between godly and the ungodly in eternity.
Such a god is an idol of your own imagination! It is as truly an idol--as any snake or crocodile in an Egyptian temple! The hands of your own imagination and sentimentality have made it! It is not the God of the Bible--and beside the God of the Bible, there is no God at all.

Blessed of the Lord

Blessed of the Lord

James Smith, 1861


God sometimes blesses his people so visibly, following their efforts and crowning their labors, that their very enemies see it. This was the case with Isaac when he dwelt at Gerar, so that Abimelech acknowledged it, and said unto him, "You are now the blessed of the Lord!" Genesis 26:29. The same may be said of all the Lord's people. Let us look at,

The Favor. "Blessed of the Lord." They are . . .
the objects of his special love,
the care of his special providence,
the habitation of his Holy Spirit,
the bride of his beloved Son.

What a favor — what a privilege is this! They are blessed . . .
with the pardon of all sin,
with access to God with confidence,
with true and solid joy,
with the prospect of a glorious, immutable, and eternal inheritance!

O blessed state! Happy are the people that are in such a case! Yes, blessed are the people who have the Lord for their God.

The Proof. "You are now the blessed of the Lord." You have a spirit of prayer, drawing near unto God. You have faith in Jesus, as the Lamb that was slain. Christ is precious to you, as your life, your all. The love of God is shed abroad in your heart, leading you to love God in response. You have come out of the world, are distinct from the world, and live above the world. You are united to God's people, esteeming them as the excellent of the earth. You live upon God's providence, which ever proves itself your friend. Or, if you cannot see these things in yourself, you have a restless desire for God's blessing, an ardent longing to see the good of his chosen people, and an inward crying of soul to spend an eternity with his blessed ones! God's blessing is everlasting life, and all who possess it will reign in life through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Those who enjoy God's blessing prove it in their life, conduct and conversation. Those who do prove it, will often be tempted and tried on the point, and doubts and fears will harass and distress them. It is very probable, if the Lord blesses them — that men will curse them; and if the Lord favors them — that men will persecute them.

This is the great point to be inquired into, and ascertained: Am I the blessed one of the Lord? If so, all spiritual blessings are mine. If so, Jesus, as the king, will say unto me, "Come, you who are blessed of my Father — inherit the kingdom prepared for you, from the foundation of the world!"

If I am blessed of God — then man's curse cannot hurt me; all that happens will be overruled for my good, and at last, I shall enter into the joy of the Lord, to be happy and holy forever.

If we are not the blessed of the Lord — then we are under his curse. We have broken his law, and have not believed his gospel. We have grieved his heart, and have not applied to him for a pardon. To be accursed of God is dreadful. It was the bitterest ingredient in the Savior's cup of sorrow. It is the most terrible thing in Hell. Yet multitudes, multitudes, live unconcerned, while under God's curse. They may be delivered from it — but they will not seek deliverance. They may come under his blessing — but they will not come to Jesus that they may do so. O strange infatuation! O perilous condition! O terrible prospect!

Reader, what are you? Are you now the blessed of the Lord? Or, are you accursed of God? One or the other you must be — get the matter decided if it is not. Live not in a state of uncertainty, much less in a state of unconcern. To be blessed of God is to have eternal life, plenty, and glory — but to be accursed of God is eternal death, destitution, and everlasting punishment.

Gracious Lord, give us your blessing! Bless us . . .
with a correct knowledge of ourselves,
with living faith in Christ,
with a sweet sense of the pardon of sin,
with the witness of the Holy Spirit to our adoption,
and with pleasant foretastes of everlasting glory!

For Jesus' sake. Amen.

A few, easy, or gentle strokes!

A few, easy, or gentle strokes!

(John Owen)

Let no man think to kill sin--with a few, easy, or gentle strokes!

He who has once smitten a serpent, if he does not beat it until it is slain--may regret that he ever began the quarrel!

Just so it is with the one who undertakes to deal with sin--and does not constantly pursue it to its death!

"Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry." Colossians 3:5

Jesus of Nazareth

Commend me to a single sentence in the whole of Christ's teaching that would make a despot sit more steadfastly upon His throne. He never taught anarchy. Find, if you can, a single word that would make men burst the bonds of righteous fealty, and lead lawless lives. He taught no asceticism that would denude life of wholesome pleasure or healthful enjoyment. Far, far was He, on the other hand, from teaching any libertinism that would tolerate aught that is unclean, unchaste, impure, in word or deed. His teaching was for man — instructing him what was best for him to do, how it was best to do it, and what it was necessary for his own good that he should eschew and avoid. 'Never man spake like this man!'

Pleading with God

For my part, brethren and sisters, I desire to feel a spirit of urgency within my soul as I plead with God for the dew of his grace to descend upon this church. I am not bashful in this matter, for I have a license to pray. Mendicancy* is forbidden in the streets, but, before the Lord I am a licensed beggar. Jesus has said, “men ought always to pray and not to faint.” You land on the shores of a foreign country with the greatest confidence when you carry a passport with you, and God has issued passports to his children, by which they come boldly to his mercy seat; he has invited you, he has encouraged you, he has bidden you come to him, and he has promised that whatsoever ye ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.

Come, then, come urgently, come importunately, come with this plea, “I am poor and needy; make no tarrying, O my God,” and a blessing shall surely come; it will not tarrry. God grant we may see it, and give him the glory of it.

The love of husband

Let the love of husband be never so pure and fervent, it is but a faint picture of the flame that burns in the heart of Jesus.
Charles H. Spurgeon

The Instruction of Children

We testify that Christ is able to change man's nature, and then good fruits will come as a matter of course: but I am afraid that in many Sunday-schools the children are taught a different doctrine, somewhat after this fashion. "Now, dear children, be very good, and obey your parents, and love Jesus, and you will be saved." That is not the gospel, and it is not true. Often do I hear it said, "Love Jesus, dear children." That is not the gospel. It is "Trust him" "Believe." Not love, but faith is the saving grace, and that love of Jesus of a sentimental kind, which does not spring out of faith in Him is a spurious emotion, a counterfeit of love, not at all the love of God, shed abroad in the heart by the Holy Spirit. The root of the matter is, "Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and you shalt be saved;" and that is the gospel for a child of two years of age, and the gospel for a man of a hundred. There is only one gospel for all that are born on the face of the earth "Believe in Jesus". Charles Spurgeon

A Plea to the Lost

Remember, last of all, that the Law which is so sharp and terrible to men when it only deals with them for their good, will if you and I die without being brought to Christ be much more terrible to us in eternity, when it deals with us in justice for our punishment . Then it will not be enshrined in the body of Moses, but, terrible to tell, it will be incarnate in the person of the Son of God sitting upon the throne. He will be at once the Lawgiver, the Judge, and the Savior; and you that have despised Him as the Savior will have to appear before Him as your Judge. No such judge as He, His justice will be clear and undiluted now that His mercy has been scorned. Oil is soft, but set it on fire, and see how it burns! Love is sweet, but curdle it to jealousy, and see how sour it is! If you turn the Lamb of Zion into the Lion of the tribe of Judah, beware, for He will tear you in pieces, and there shall be none to deliver. Rejected love will change its hand. The pierced hand was outstretched with invitations of mercy, but if these be rejected — O sirs, I am telling you solemn truth, and hear it, I pray you, ere I send you away - if from that hand that was pierced you will not take the perfect salvation which He is prepared to give to all who confess their guilt, you will have to receive from that selfsame hand the blows of that iron rod which shall break you in pieces as a potter's vessel. Fly now, and kiss the Son, lest He be angry, and you perish from the way while His wrath is kindled but a little. Blessed are all they that put their trust in Him! Amen.

Memorize All of the Scripture You Can! - Bob Jennings

The Reason Sinners Live

Read the Ten Commandments, and pause at each one, and confess that you have broken it either in thought, or word, or deed. Remember that by a glance we may commit adultery, by a thought we may be guilty of murder, by a desire we may steal. Sin is any want of conformity to perfect holiness, and that want of conformity is justly chargeable upon every one of us. Yet the Lord does not, under the gospel dispensation, deal with us according to Law. He does not now sit on the throne of judgment, but He looks down upon us from the throne of grace. Not the iron rod, but the silver scepter, is held over us. The long-suffering of God rules the age, and Jesus the Mediator is the gracious Lord-lieutenant of the dispensation. Instead of destroying offending man from off the face of the earth, the Lord comes near to us in loving condescension, and pleads with us by His Spirit, saying, "You have sinned, but my Son has died. In him I am prepared to deal with you in a way of pure mercy and unmingled grace."

O sinner, the fact that you are alive proves that God is not dealing with you according to strict justice, but in patient forbearance; every moment you live is another instance of omnipotent long-suffering. It is the sacrifice of Christ which arrests the axe of justice, which else must execute you. The barren tree is spared because the great Dresser of the vineyard, who bled on Calvary, intercedes and cries, "Let it alone this year also." O my hearer, it is through the shedding of the blood and the mediatorial reign of the Lord Jesus that you are at this moment on praying ground and pleading terms with God! Apart from the blood of atonement you would now be past hope, shut up for ever in the place of doom. But see how the great Father bears with you! He stands prepared to hear your prayer, to accept your confession of sin, to honor your faith, and to save you from your sin through the sacrifice of his dear Son .

We Have Forgotten that the Way is Narrow. (Paul Washer)

Some People's Eyes

I shall never forget one summer afternoon, when I was preaching in a village chapel about the joys of Heaven, that an elderly lady sitting on my right kept looking to me with intense delight. Some people's eyes greatly help the preacher. A telegraph goes on between us. She seemed to say to me, "Bless God for that. How I am enjoying it!" She kept drinking in the truth, and I poured out more and more precious things about the eternal kingdom and the sight of the Well beloved, till I saw what I thought was a strange light pass over her face. I went on, and those eyes were still fixed on me. She sat still as a marble figure, and I stopped and said, "Friends, I think that yon sister over there is dead." They said that it was even so, and they bore her away. She had gone. While I was telling of Heaven, she had gone there; and I remember saying that I wished that it had been my case as well as hers. It was better not, perhaps, for many reasons; but oh, I did envy her! I am always looking for the day when I shall see her again. I shall know those eyes, I am sure I shall.

Being Him unto Me!

Being Him unto Me!

James Smith, 1861


"Bring him unto Me." Mark 9:19

The life of Jesus is full of instructive incidents. What part of it can we read without deriving encouragement, counsel, or instruction from it. When our Lord was on the mount of transfiguration, a man brought his son to the disciples to be healed — but the devil was too strong for them, and would not obey their command. When Jesus came down, he complained of their unbelief, and said, "Bring him unto Me." He was brought, and healed, and all were instructed. The subject is full of profitable and important instruction for us.


Here Is a Mistake Corrected. We often try to do without Jesus. The child was brought to the disciples, not to Jesus. So we bring our children to the means, not directly to Christ. We try to bear our sorrows, carry our crosses, master our difficulties, and overcome our troubles — without bringing them to Jesus, or calling upon him for help. We go to others before Jesus. We ought in all things — to go to Jesus first. We think over the subject, draw plans, and make efforts; we go to others for counsel and assistance, whereas we ought to go directly to Jesus, spread the matter before him, ask counsel of him, and entreat him to appear for us.

We keep many things from Jesus. But we ought to carry everything to Jesus. Whatever affects us, interests him, and he wishes to hear of it from us. Everything should be turned into prayer or praise. All should be laid before the Lord, that he may bless it, remove it, or sanctify it to us, as the case may require. Never, in the future, let us try to do without Jesus. In any place, or under any circumstances — never let us go to others before him — nor keep anything from Jesus — but let us employ him always, go to him first with everything, and carry all that concerns us, whether temporal or spiritual, to him.


Here Is a Direction Given. "Bring him unto me." Jesus had a full consciousness of his ability to do whatever may be required of him, and he expresses a readiness to help in time of need.

Have you an enemy — a powerful, malicious, cruel enemy? Bring him to Jesus! The disciples may not be able to conquer him for you — but Jesus can. He can curb, restrain, or convert the foe into a friend. Put therefore your enemy into the hand of Jesus, and endeavor to leave him there.

Have you a child, or a relative, for whose conversion or welfare you are especially concerned? Bring him to Jesus! You may have tried all means in vain. Books, sermons, expostulations, yes, tears may have been tried in vain. Now bring him to Jesus — he can cast out the devil, he can change the heart, he can transform him into a new creature.

Have you a peculiar trial, a sore, heavy, almost overwhelming trial? Bring it to Jesus! He can give you wisdom to manage it, and to improve it; and he can make it one of the greatest blessings of your life. He will throw light upon it, enable you to derive advantage from it, and very likely lead you to praise and bless God for it.

Have you prosperity, either temporal or spiritual? Bring it to Jesus, you need his blessing now more than ever. Never are we in so great danger — as in prosperity. Never do we so much need the grace and presence of Jesus — as when all things appear to go well with us.

Bring your foes to Jesus, bring your family to Jesus, bring your troubles to Jesus, and bring your prosperity to Jesus — yes, bring everything to Jesus, so will you prevent evil and secure good.

Bring it by prayer, and let your prayers be as simple as possible; let them be the simple telling the Lord all that you feel, fear, wish, or desire. Lay all out before him, just as the loving, confiding child, opens the whole heart to its kind and affectionate parent.

Bring it in faith, believing what Jesus says, and trusting in Jesus to make good his word. He loves to be trusted, and to the simple-hearted, confiding Christian, he never says, Nay.

Bring your foes in faith and prayer — that he may conquer them. Bring your children and friends — that he may convert them. Bring your troubles and trials — that he may sanctify them, and deliver you out of them. Bring all to Jesus that troubles, tries, or interests you — and bring the whole to him with perseverance.

If anyone was to ask, "How many times shall I bring anything to Jesus, before I give it up as a hopeless case? Seven times?" We should be ready to use our Lord's words upon another occasion. "I say not unto you, until seven times — but until seventy times seven." While the trial lasts, the trouble continues, or until the blessing is granted — bring it unto Jesus.

Above all, bring yourself to Jesus, if you have not come at all, come at once, and seek salvation from him. If you have come before, come again, and come daily, hourly to Jesus — that he may fulfill in you all the good pleasure of his goodness, and the work of faith with power.

Come to Jesus with all — whether pleasant or painful.

Come to Jesus for all — whether temporal or spiritual.

Come to Jesus notwithstanding all — let what will, work within you, or without you, or endeavor to stop up your path — force your way through all, and come to Jesus. Fears may beset you, temptations may be in the way, and unbelief may work to deter you — but press through all to Jesus. Take everything, even the most minute matters to Jesus, he will manage them for you, bless them to you, and make all things work together for your good.

Reader, does anyone at the present hinder you? Jesus says, "Bring him unto me!" Does anything just now trouble you? Jesus says, "Bring it unto me!" Does a son or a daughter, wife or husband, any relative or friend, cause you pain, and are you distressed for them, or by them? Jesus says, "Bring them unto me!"

O for grace to take every thing to Jesus, to cast every care on Jesus, to entrust all we value to Jesus! May we live in daily fellowship with him, and may a source of communion and fellowship with him be opened for us day by day, and hour by hour!

Precious Lord Jesus, we do bless and praise your dear and adorable name, for inviting, yes commanding us, to bring all our concerns to you. Teach us to live by faith on you, walking in fellowship with you, and daily making use of you for all the purposes of life and godliness!