by James Smith
December 1
From this day will I bless you. - Haggai 2:19
What day? The day we begin to seek the Lord. The day we decide to be on the Lord's side. The day we publicly and honestly profess Him. The day we heartily engage in His work. The day we return from backsliding, and repent of our sin before Him. The day we identify ourselves with His people in heart and soul.
What does the Lord promise? To bless us; He will bless our temporal mercies; He will bless our trials; He will bless our labours; He will bless our families; He will bless our souls; He will bless us with light, liberty, strength, peace, contentment, and success.
Beloved, let us be decided for the Lord, and always walk in His ways. Expect His blessing, for He has given you His word, and confirmed it with a solemn oath. Be diligent in the use of all means. Constantly look to Jesus as the only medium through which all blessings flow.
Plead this precious promise before thy God this morning, and many times today; yea, and every day; so shall thy peace be like a river, and thy righteousness as the waves of the sea. He will bless thee, and thou shalt be a blessing.
Then let no care perplex me now;
My only wish and care be Thou,
Be Thou my sole delight;
Bid every sigh of rising thought,
And every pant of breath go out
For Jesus day and night.
December 2
Believe in the Lord your God. - 2 Chronicles 20:20
The proper object of faith is God in Christ, not God as the God of nature. In Christ He is gracious unto us, ever with us, ready to help us, and takes pleasure in us.
He is our covenant God, all sufficient, and ever propitious. We should believe in His word, which is true and faithful; in His presence, for He will never turn away from us; in His power, for nothing is too hard for Him; in His character, which He will never allow to be dishonoured; and in His faithfulness, which is like the great mountains, and abideth for ever.
We should believe in God, though men rise up against us; though Satan worry and distress us; though doubts and fears arise within us. We should believe in God, for strength to perform duty; deliverance out of every difficulty, and for courage in every conflict. Believing in God will produce contentment, zeal, and humility.
Let us have faith from God : it is a gift which He is willing to bestow : and let us have faith in God, it is an exercise which He requires and approves. If the Son of Man were to come, would He find faith in our hearts? O Saviour!
Let us trust Thee evermore;
Every moment on Thee call,
For new life, new will, new power;
Let us trust Thee, Lord, for all!
May we nothing know beside
Jesus, and Him crucified!
December 3
I will go in the strength of the Lord GOD. - Psalm 71:16
Our own weakness would dismay us, but God's strength is offered to us; in His light we see, and in His strength we work. We have duties to perform, difficulties to encounter, and foes to overcome; let us therefore go in the strength of the Lord.
It is promised to us, and may be received by us; we must ask it of God, we must expect it in faith, and go forth believing that He is faithful who hath promised. Never let us attempt any thing in our own strength; if we do, we shall be sure to fail; let us first take up God's promise, rely on His veracity, and so go forth to duty, conflict, and danger. Then the battle is not ours, but the Lord's; then we are sure of success, succour, and victory.
The Lord will then be our strength and song; our refuge and certain salvation. His strength is made perfect in weakness, and His grace is glorified in the unworthy.
Let us not fear, let us not loiter, let us not despond, but let us go in the strength of the Lord, and we shall be more than conquerors. He giveth courage to the faint, and to those who have no might He increaseth strength.
I know the God in whom I trust,
The arm on which I lean;
He will my Saviour ever be,
Who has my Saviour been;
Strong in His strength my foes I face,
Assured of victory through His grace.
December 4
Create in me a clean heart, O God. - Psalm 51:10
Such a prayer implies a conviction of sin, a sense of pollution, a desire for holiness, a knowledge of weakness, grief for inconstancy, and the possession of true wisdom.
It is the prayer of every Christian; let it be our prayer this day; let us lift up our hearts and voices to our God, and cry, "Remove guilt and pollution, produce purity and peace in our hearts. Cleanse us by Thy word, the blood of Jesus, and the influence of the Holy Spirit." Purity of heart can only be produced by God; it enters into the very essence of religion; we cannot be godly except we are holy.
If we love sin, if we can indulge in sin, or if a sense of having sinned does not pain us, and cause us to adopt this prayer, our religion is spurious, we are destitute of the power of godliness. No real Christian can live in sin. He is called to holiness. He is the temple of the Holy Spirit. Holiness is his element and health. His God says, "Be holy, for I am holy:" and he cries, "Create in me a clean heart, O God."
Let us be holy in all manner of conversation, looking for and hasting to the coming of Jesus.
Supreme High Priest, the pilgrim's light,
My heart for Thee prepare;
Thine image stamp, and deeply write
Thy superscription there:
Ah, let my forehead, bear Thy seal,
My heart the inward witness feel.
December 5
And delivered just Lot. - 2 Peter 2:7
Lot was a godly man, justified before God by faith, and justified before man by his good works. But he was a weak man. He chose to dwell in Sodom because it was a wealthy place; he aimed at a fortune, but he was vexed and grieved daily, by seeing and hearing of the unrighteous deeds of his neighbours.
His children married into the world, and were ruined : and he himself, though delivered by a gracious and faithful God, suffered severely. His sons and their wives perished in Sodom; his own wife was made an example of on the plain : he was hurried away without a solitary servant, or any property of importance : and had to take up his dwelling in a cave.
See the folly of being led by appearances : let not the heart follow the eye. See also the certainty of being chastened for sin--just Lot could not escape : the faithfulness of divine love towards its wayward children; and the importance of being distinct from the world. The Christian in the world is like Lot in Sodom, and if he chooses his place from the same motives, the Lord may deal with him after the same rule.
Oh! to be brought to Jesus' feet,
Though sorrows fix me there,
Is still a privilege : and sweet
The energies of prayer :
Though sighs and tears its language be,
If Christ be nigh and smile on me.
December 6
Cast not away therefore your confidence. - Hebrews 10:35
Every believer is confident that Jesus Christ is the Messiah, the sent of God : that He is the only Saviour, and the eternal God.
He is confident that heaven is promised to all true believers, and is certain to all holy disciples. He gives credit to God's word, which reveals the same, is fully satisfied of its truth, and finds courage and boldness to profess the same.
His confidence being produced by the Holy Spirit, and grounded on the divine word, will lead him to commit his all to the divine blessing; to surrender all to the divine will; to part with all in Christ's quarrel: and to rest on the word and veracity of the Lord Jesus.
His confidence will often be assailed and sharply tried; but it must be maintained, for we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold fast the beginning of our confidence stedfast unto the end. It has great recompense of reward, in the present life a hundred-fold for all it parts with for Christ; and in the world to come life everlasting.
Beloved, let us hold fast our confidence and rejoicing of hope firm unto the end.
Protect me in the dangerous hour,
And from the wily tempter's power,
Oh, set my spirit free!
And if temptation should assail,
May mighty grace o'er all prevail
And lead my heart to Thee.
December 7
I rejoice in thy salvation. - 1 Samuel 2:1
God's salvation is a deliverance from the worst of evils, of freest grace, for the best of purposes. He saves the poor and needy, the guilty and the distressed, who call upon Him, and believe upon Him. And we who have obtained mercy, should with Hannah rejoice in God's salvation, as those who have received an invaluable favour; as those who are laid under, and are ready to acknowledge their infinite obligations.
Salvation is the proper source of joy and rejoicing; and while some rejoice in property, some in power, and some in earthly prospects, let us rejoice in the salvation of our God. It is a cause for rejoicing in sickness and in health, in poverty and in plenty, in life and in death.
Although the fig tree should not blossom, neither should fruit be on the vine; though the labour of the olive should fail, and the fields should yield no more meat; though the flock should be cut off from the fold, and there be no herd in the stalls : yet we may rejoice in the Lord, and joy in the God of our salvation; for not one thing shall fail of all that He hath spoken. Delightful truth, "SALVATION IS OF THE LORD."
Join heaven and earth, to bless
The Lord our righteousness,
In Him I will rejoice,
With cheerful heart and voice;
In Him complete I shine;
His life and death are mine.
December 8
Walk in Love. - Ephesians 5:2
Religion is love: the love of God shed abroad in the heart, transforming our nature into love. The blessing is bestowed to be exhibited; we are to let our light shine, and walk in love.
Under the influence of love to God, for His mercy towards us; and love to man for God's sake. By the rule of love, doing unto others as we would they should do unto us. Seeking their spiritual and eternal welfare. Letting it be clearly seen, that we indulge no envy, jealousy, malice, or ill-will in our hearts against any; but that we wish them well, and desire to promote their best interests in any way we can.
Love should run through the whole of our actions, and be the ruling motive in our souls. God acts towards us from love. The Holy Spirit is the Spirit of love; and love is the brightest and surest evidence of regeneration.
Let us not be satisfied to feel that we love, but let us manifest it; let us "WALK IN LOVE"; this is the way to be happy, useful and honourable. Bitterness, wrath, censoriousness, and selfishness, prove that we are under sin; but love is of God; and he that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God.
May I from every act abstain,
That hurts or gives my brother pain;
Nay, every secret wish suppress,
That would abridge his happiness;
And this may I Thy follower prove,
Great Prince of peace, great God of love!
December 9
Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me. - John 17:20
Beloved, when Jesus was praying for His disciples, He prayed for us; His prayer extended to all who believe, however fearful, weak, and timid.
He prayed that we may be one with Himself; one with His church, as members of the same body, children of the same family, heirs of the same inheritance, and parts of the same spiritual temple. He prayed that we may be so one as the Father is one with Him, and as He is one with the Father; that we may have the same love influencing us, the same object always in view, and may exhibit the same virtues.
What glorious privileges our Saviour here prays that we may enjoy! What honours He seeks for us! What unspeakable blessedness! Think of being one with God; one with God as Jesus is; one with the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. To be of one mind, one will, and, as it were, of one soul. Gracious, gracious Lord, hasten on the time when this all-comprehending prayer shall be fully answered in our experience!
Let us, beloved, daily pray for this blessing; nothing can be greater, sweeter, or more important.
Thy revealing Spirit give,
Whom the world cannot receive :
Fill me with Thy Father's love;
Never from my soul remove :
Dwell in me, and I shall be
Thine through all eternity.
December 10
Why dost Thou strive against Him? - Job 33:13
A believer strive against his God! Yes, it is sometimes the case; he may strive against some of the doctrines of His word; or, against some of the dispensations of His providence; or, against some of the commands He has issued. But why dost strive against Him?
His wisdom is infinite. His love is unchangeable. His ways are all righteous. His methods may be mysterious, and His dispensations trying; but His designs are all gracious and good. It is your duty to submit and be still. It is your privilege to believe and trust. It is rebellion and treason to strive against Him, for He giveth not account of any of His matters.
It is the glory of God to conceal a thing. He is not accountable to any. He will not be questioned by the curious, or called to an account by the proud. He demands our acquiescence on the ground of His perfections, promises, and word. He will make all plain and clear to us by and by, and then we shall know as we are known, and be perfectly satisfied. He says, "Be still, and know that I am God." "Be silent, O all flesh, before the Lord."
Oh! let me live of Thee possess'd,
In weakness, weariness, and pain!
The anguish of my labouring breast,
The daily cross I still sustain,
For Him that languish'd on the tree,
But lived, before He died for me.
December 11
He is the Saviour of the body. - Ephesians 5:23
The church is the body of Christ. Jesus and His people are one. They are His elect whom He hath chosen; His seed which He had begotten; His portion which He had received; His delight and glory, in which He constantly rejoices.
He saves them by substitution; He took their place, their obligations, and their sins. He saves them by communication; giving them grace and His Holy Spirit, with every spiritual blessing. He saves them by instruction; for they are all taught of God.
He saves them by separation; bringing them out of, and delivering them from this present evil world. He saves them by visitations; He grants them life and favour, and His visitations preserve their spirits. He saves them by translation; first out of the kingdom of Satan, into His kingdom of grace; and then out of the present world, into His kingdom of glory.
He saves them to display His perfections; confound His foes; exalt His name; satisfy His love; and from sympathy with them. All who are saved form part of His body. Salvation is entirely of God. What happiness to be saved thus!
Joyful truth, He bore transgression
In His body on the cross;
Through His blood there's full remission;
All for Him we count but loss:
Jesus for the sinner bleeds,
Nothing more the sinner needs.
December 12
Ask what I shall give thee. - 1 Kings 3:5
We are not straitened in our God; He has boundless resources, and is constantly calling upon us to ask and receive. What do we want this morning? Is it not more holiness? We want our understandings enlightened, our wills brought into perfect conformity to the will of God, and our affections fixed on holy and heavenly things.
Let us agree to ask these things of our God. He will give freely, cheerfully, and plentifully. Let us ask as Solomon did, WISDOM; even that wisdom which cometh from above, which is pure, peaceable, easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits.
This wisdom will guide our hearts and direct our ways; it will lead us safely to a city of habitations; it will lead us to do God's will with pleasure, promptness, and delight. It will make us wise to escape from Satan's snares, to avoid temptation, and to do good unto all men. How important is this wisdom! How necessary for us!
Well, Jesus stands before us this morning, saying, "ASK WHAT I SHALL GIVE THEE :" in Him dwelleth all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge, and every one that asketh receiveth.
O sovereign Love, to Thee I cry;
Give me Thyself, or else I die:
Save me from death, from hell set free, -
Death, hell, are but the want of Thee!
My life, my crown, my heaven Thou art!
Oh, may I find Thee in my heart!
December 13
The author and finisher of our faith. - Hebrews 12:2
All Christians have faith, but some of us have but little faith. He who gave us what we have can increase it; and He will if we apply to Him, plead with Him, and wait upon Him.
We need more faith, to enable us to escape the many dangers that are in our path; to do and suffer the Lord's will with patience; to hold fast the faithful word which we have been taught; to grow in grace and holiness; to exercise forgiving love towards those who have grieved, offended, or injured us; and to honour God, by believing His promises, trusting His providence, expecting His interference, being active in His service, and leaving our concerns in His hands, to be arranged, directed, and brought to pass.
We are encouraged to pray for more faith, by the nature of the request, and the design with which we ask it : by the precepts of His holy gospel : by the examples of faith set before us in the word : by the promises which God has given : by the well-known character of our God : and by the blessed results which must follow from having such a prayer answered.
Author of faith, I seek Thy face,
The work of faith in me fulfil :
Confirm and strengthen me in grace,
To do and suffer all Thy will :
From hell, the world, and sin secure,
And make me in my goings sure.
December 14
Make your calling and election sure. - 2 Peter 1:10
Put your religion beyond a doubt; let there be no reason to question whether you are sincere or not. Calling separates us from sin, Satan, and the world; to holiness, Christ, and the church.
Election is the root of calling; it is God's choice of us from others - in Christ, by grace, to holiness, for His glory. We know our election of God, by our being led to choose Christ, holiness, and heaven; to choose them freely, heartily, and habitually. If we thus choose them, we shall use every means to obtain them.
We know that we are called of God, by our calling upon God secretly, heartily, constantly - for holiness, salvation, and fellowship with Himself. When we thus call on God we carefully avoid all evil, and follow after everything that is good. Let us give all diligence to know our election, for it is worth all the pains we can take, or the time we spend.
Let us follow on to know the Lord, give up ourselves entirely to God, exercise ourselves unto godliness, seek the witness, earnest, and sealing of the Spirit, and cleave unto God with full purpose of heart.
Nothing is worth a thought beneath,
But how I may escape the death
That never, never dies!
How make mine own election sure,
And, when I fail on earth, secure
A mansion in the skies!
December 15
The righteous also shall hold on his way. - Job 17:9
The way to the kingdom is rough and rugged, our strength is often small, and our fears are very many. But if we are justified by grace, sanctified by the Spirit of truth, and pursue a consistent course, there is no doubt of our safe arrival at our Father's house; for "the righteous shall hold on his way, and he that hath clean hands shall wax stronger and stronger."
The true believer shall hold on, for the promise of God secures him; the fullness of Christ supplies him; the Spirit of grace influences him; the new nature urges him; occasional love-tokens encourage him; and attachment to the Lord and His people, prevents him from forsaking the right ways of the Most High.
Beloved, let us be concerned to have a blameless conversation; let us live near to and walk with Jesus, then our graces will flourish; we shall become rooted in Christ; our daily conquests will give us courage; and our God will give as He hath promised, even grace and glory. It is not for us to be timid; it is not for the righteous to despond, for he shall hold on his way. "They go from strength to strength; every one of them in Zion appeareth before God."
They may on the main of temptation be tossed,
Their troubles may swell like the sea;
But none of the ransom'd shall ever be lost,
The righteous shall hold on his way.
December 16
Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly. - Colossians 3:16
The word which Jesus preached, or the word which His servants wrote, the whole word of God, is the word of Jesus.
Believer, look at your Bible as containing the word of your best Friend, loving Saviour, and final Judge. Let it find a home in your memories, affections, and hearts. Let it keep house - ruling, feeding, and directing your souls.
Let it dwell in you plentifully, and know how to apply the different portions to different persons, and different cases. Let it dwell in you richly, that you may have that to plead in prayer which God will notice, approve, and accept; to form, guide, and preserve your judgments; to curb, bound, and regulate your desires; to raise, confirm, and direct your expectations : to silence, enlighten, and purify conscience : to enable you to resist and overcome Satan : that you may be able to reprove sin, and speak a word in season to the weary.
Let the word of Christ have the best room in your souls : let it be your daily meditation, food, and directory. "LET THE WORD OF CHRIST DWELL IN YOU RICHLY IN ALL WISDOM."
Still let Thy wisdom be my guide,
Nor take Thy light from me away;
Still with me let Thy grace abide,
That I from Thee may never stray :
Let Thy word richly in me dwell,
Inspiring me to do Thy will.
December 17
They are the enemies of the cross of Christ. - Philippians 3:18
The cross of Christ is the Christian's glory, and few things would give him more pain, than to be considered its enemy.
It embraces the whole doctrine of salvation by grace, and is viewed by the Christian as the foundation of his hope, and the object of his faith; as the end of the law, and the antidote of misery; as the centre of truth, and subject of the church's song; as mercy's sceptre, and the Saviour's throne; as the mirror, in which Jehovah displays all the perfections of His nature; and the key that opens the gates of the celestial paradise; as the glory of eternal wisdom, and the mystery of incarnate love; as the destruction of death, and the gate to everlasting life; as the object of the angels' wonder, and the cause of the devil's everlasting confusion.
Beloved, let us fix our eyes and hearts upon this glorious, this surprising object; and never, never let us, by our conduct or conversation, bring a disgrace upon it; but let us endeavour to advance its triumphs, spread its glories, and bring sinners to admire, love, and trust in it. "God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of my Lord Jesus Christ; by which the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world."
Oh, may my single aim be now,
To live on Him that died,
And nought on earth desire to know
But Jesus crucified.
December 18
If ye love Me, keep My commandments. - John 14:15
Here is the Christian's grand RULE of action, the commandments of his dear Saviour. Jesus commands us because He loves us; because He desires our present welfare; because He will prove the sincerity of our profession; and because He approves of the obedience of faith.
He commands us to imitate Himself; He is our great pattern and example; and we should endeavour to imitate Him in His Spirit, and design, and actions. He commands us to believe Him, profess Him, obey Him, and continue in His love. Here we have the Christian's grand MOTIVE and spring of action--LOVE. Spiritual love is always loyal to the King of Zion; jealous for the glory of the Lord of Hosts; and determined in the cause of the Prince of peace. The obedience of love is easy--hearty--and thorough.
Love is the strongest incentive to obedience; it conquers fear--furnishes with zeal--equips with courage--devises the means--surmounts difficulties--and triumphs over opposition. Let us inquire from what does our obedience spring? By what is it regulated? Is our motive and rule, holy love?
Love is the fountain whence
All true obedience flows;
The Christian serves the God he loves,
And loves the God he knows :
May love o'er every power preside,
And every thought and action guide.
December 19
I will give you the sure mercies of David. - Acts 13:34
The mercies of David are SUITED to a sinner's wants; they comprise all he needs for time, for body and soul; and all he will need through eternity.
The mercies of David are COVENANT mercies; the Father has engaged to bestow them through the doing and dying of Jesus; the Son has secured their bestowment by His vicarious sufferings and death; and the Holy Spirit will put the Lord's people in possession of them.
They all flow from free grace, are revealed in the promises, and are stored up in the fullness of Christ. The mercies of David are SURE mercies; they are unconditionally promised to all comers; are received by simple faith; and are bestowed by Jesus as the appointed trustee and administrator of the covenant of grace.
They are sure, for God has sworn, and will not change His mind, or remove His covenant of reconciliation. The mercies of David are GIVEN mercies; no desert is requisite to establish a claim; no hard conditions are laid down to entitle; no price is fixed, or money demanded : but it is, "Come and receive freely."
Thy favours, Lord, surprise our souls;
Wilt Thou indulge Thy creatures thus?
The stream of full salvation rolls,
To strengthen, cheer, and comfort us;
How rich the grace! how kind the word!
All praise and glory to the Lord!
December 20
O keep my soul, and deliver me. - Psalm 25:20
What a mercy to have a God to go to, a throne of grace set before us, and the precious name of Jesus to plea. How encouraging the examples set before us in God's holy word. Let us imitate them who spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
We are going into the world; the business of the day is before us; our hearts are false and fickle; let our prayer be, "OH, KEEP MY SOUL". Keep me from sin, let me not indulge it in my heart, or commit it in my life - keep me from Satan, suffer him not to lead me astray from Thee - keep me from men, let them not prevail against me. Keep me in Thy way - in Thy truth - in Thy church.
Keep me by Thy word - Thy spirit - Thy presence - or Thy rod. "DELIVER ME" : from guilt and condemnation, from fear and shame. Keep me at Thy footstool, and deliver me from my own wandering heart. Let me be clothed in the robe of righteousness - cleansed in the fountain of my Saviour's blood - accepted in His glorious person and perfect work - and be crowned with loving kindness and tender mercy. "Keep me as the apple of the eye."
Ah, will not He who ransom'd man,
A Saviour's work fulfil?
Almighty is His power - He can :
Boundless His love - He will,
Saviour Divine! deliver me,
Oh, keep my soul still near to Thee!
December 21
They shall not be ashamed that wait for me. - Isaiah 49:23
Waiting for the Lord, supposes that we want Him to do something for us, bestow something on us, or fill some relation to us. It implies that we have sought Him, that He has promised, but that He delays to answer our request. It proves that no substitute can be found.
This promise SUGGESTS that there may be fears, lest He should not come; lest after all we should be disappointed. This supposes, that there may be temptations to distrust the love, faithfulness, and goodness of God; to think they shall be ashamed of having sought, believed, or expected that the Lord would appear. But this precious promise SECURES the waiting soul from shame, disappointment, and confusion; it ASSURES us that the Lord will appear, answer, and bless in His own time, and in His own way.
Are you tempted? - wait for the Lord. Are you afflicted? - wait upon God. Are you sorely tried? - wait patiently for the Lord; He will not suffer you to be ashamed. Abraham waited, and received the promise. Joseph waited, and was raised to honour. David waited, and had all his desire.
Affliction is a stormy deep,
Where wave resounds to wave;
Though o'er my head the billows roll,
I know the Lord can save :
I'll wait, and bow beneath the rod;
My hope, my confidence is God.
December 22
His soul shall dwell at ease. - Psalm 25:13
The man that fears God must have faith in His word, love to His character, a desire to please Him in all things, a fear to offend Him in anything, a realization of His omniscience, and be looking forward to His appearing.
Beloved, is this our character? It is said of such, " His soul shall dwell at ease :" free from slavish fears - from soul-distressing cares and anxieties - in a state of contentment and solid peace. And well he may; for he has God for his portion - the eternal covenant as his stay - the precious promises as his security - the glorious atonement for his plea - complete salvation for his shield - providence as his friend - Christ as his constant Advocate, Captain, and Man-of-War - daily fellowship with God as his relief - and heaven as his final home. His soul shall lodge, or dwell in goodness : so some read it.
The goodness of God is the storehouse of every blessing, and will supply his every want - silence all his fears - contradict all his unbelieving doubts - and exalt him to peace and honour. Beloved, let us not be anxious about anything, but casting all our cares upon God, let us dwell at ease.
Once the world was all my treasure;
Then the world my heart possess'd;
Now I taste sublimer pleasure,
Since the Lord has made me blest;
I can witness,
Jesus gives His people rest.
December 23
Whom resist stedfast in the faith. - 1 Peter 5:9
Satan is the Christian's unwearied foe, he is the enemy of all righteousness, and aims at our destruction. He is especially the enemy of our faith--comfort--prosperity--and usefulness.
He is our enemy before God, and he gets access to our hearts; he excites to sin, accuses of sin, and terrifies for sin. We are called upon to resist him, stedfastly believing God's word, faithfulness and love. Stedfastly believing what Christ is to us, as Satan's grand opponent.
Is Satan a deadly serpent?--Jesus is the brazen serpent which heals. Is Satan a roaring lion?--Jesus is the lion of the tribe of Judah who prevails. Is Satan an adversary?--Jesus is a Friend. Is Satan a wolf?--Jesus is the good Shepherd. Is Satan a tempter? - Jesus is a Deliverer. Is Satan a deceiver and a liar?--Jesus is the truth. Is Satan an accuser? - Jesus is an Advocate. Is Satan the prince of darkness?--Jesus is the light of life. Is Satan a murderer?--Jesus is the resurrection. Is Satan god of this world?--Jesus is God over all.
Resist the devil in the faith of this. Jesus is all you need.
All power is to our Jesus given;
O'er earth's rebellious sons He reigns :
He mildly rules the hosts of heaven,
And holds the powers of hell in chains :
Jesus, the woman's conquering seed,
Shall bruise for us the serpent's head.
December 24
I will be glorified. - Leviticus 10:3
This is the great end Jehovah has in view in all He performs, and all He permits. He created and He preserves the world, that He might be glorified. He redeemed His people by the blood of His Son, and He will glorify His saints with Himself, to the same end.
He will be glorified in His sovereignty, doing as He will - in His supremacy, commanding as He pleases - in His wisdom, disposing of His creatures to secure His design - in His grace, saving an innumerable company of the lost and wretched, to sound His praise forever - in His goodness, supplying the wants of all His creatures, though in rebellion against Him - in His justice, punishing the daring impenitent offender.
Beloved, it is our duty to aim at the glory of our God in all things. Does Jehovah command? - then we should observe His commands and obey them. Does He graciously promise, and in wisdom and mercy provide? - then we should trust, rely, and depend on Him. Does He work in providence and grace? - then we should acknowledge His hand, submit to His wisdom, bow at His throne, fear to sin against Him, or grieve His love.
Lord, turn the stream of nature's tide;
Let all our actions tend
To Thee their Source; Thy love the guide,
Thy glory be the end :
In all we think, or say, or do,
Thy glory may we still pursue.
December 25
This honour have all His saints. - Psalm 149:9
What honour? Of being redeemed by the blood of the Lamb, out of every nation, country, people, and tongue. Of being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible; by the word of God which liveth and abideth forever.
Of being acknowledged as the sons of God : "Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be; but when He shall appear we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is". Of being closely allied to Jesus : He is not ashamed to call them brethren. Of being heirs of God : "If children then HEIRS, heirs of God and joint-heirs with Jesus Christ".
Of being delivered from slavery to serve God in liberty : "that being delivered out of the hands of our enemies we might serve Him without fear, in holiness and righteousness before Him all the days of our life". Of being appointed to sit in judgment with Christ : Know ye not that we shall judge "angels"? "This honour have all His saints." Are we saints? Do we walk as becometh saints? Are we living under the influence of these great privileges? Let us admire, adore, and obey.
Pause, my soul, adore and wonder;
Ask, "Oh, why such love to me?"
Grace hath put me in the number
Of the Saviour's family;
Hallelujah!
Thanks, eternal thanks to Thee.
December 26
I would have you without carefulness. - 1 Corinthians 7:32
Anxiety, or carefulness, is very injurious; it divides the heart, distracts the mind, chokes the word, leads to distrust, and destroys our peace. It is inconsistent with our profession; we have resigned all into the hands of the Lord, and should leave all to His blessing.
We should do everything as for the Lord, and consider our families, our property, and our business, as the Lord's; so should we be holy and enjoy peace. Anxiety, or inordinate care, dishonours God; it reflects upon His sufficiency to supply all--upon His omniscience to discover all--upon His authority and ability to manage all--upon His mercy, bounty, and liberality, as if He would leave us to want--upon His veracity, fidelity, and immutability, as though His word may be forfeited or His promise broken. Carefulness injures our own souls - it is opposed to contentment and resignation - it nourishes impatience and unbelief - it hinders our usefulness, and hardens our hearts - it cuts off supplies, and procures the rod and the frown.
We should therefore aim to be without CAREFULNESS, for the Lord careth for us.
How sweet to have our portion there,
Where sorrow never comes, nor care,
And nothing will remove!
We then may hear without a sigh,
The world's destruction to be nigh -
Our treasure is above.
December 27
Let us not be weary in well-doing. - Galatians 6:9
It is not enough for us to be doing, we should be doing good. We are redeemed and created for this purpose. Let us ACT as before God, for the good of man; let us COMMUNICATE advice, encouragement, or relief, in the fear of God, and for His glory.
What is done well, is done in a good spirit, even the spirit of love - humility - and prayer; is done from a good motive, even the love of Christ; is done by a good rule, the commandment of the everlasting God; is done to a good end, the glory of Him who hath called and commanded us.
But we are prone to get weary of doing, especially if we are hasty - or meet with disappointments - or look at creatures - or consult our own case. But let us not lose heart in the work, neither let us give it over; for in due season we shall reap if we faint not.
This is sowing time, but reaping time will come; let us therefore go on in divine strength - with holy fortitude - with fixed determination - and resigning ourselves daily to God. We shall reap in DUE SEASON if we faint not; for God is orderly - faithful - bounteous - gracious; He will not forget our work and labour of love; but will reward even a cup of cold water, given to a disciple in His name.
Put thou thy trust in God,
In duty's path go on;
Fix on His word thy steadfast eye,
So shall thy work be done.
December 28
All things work together for good. - Romans 8:28
All the Lord's people love God. They do not love Him as they desire, yet they cleave to Him, and follow on to know Him. He is their God, and has called them according to His own purpose and grace, which was given them in Jesus Christ before the world began, and it becomes the Christian to view everything as having its place in God's economy; and its work to do in accomplishing God's purposes.
Angels, men and devils, but perform His pleasure. All things are connected by the infinite wisdom and good pleasure of the Most High. He superintends every movement of every one of His creatures; and directs them to answer His purpose and end. He overrules everything for our good; we never lose anything worth keeping by any of His dispensations.
We may gain by all that occurs; we may gain wisdom-holiness -- matter for prayer or praise -- work for faith, patience, or hope.
However, our best interests are secured; everything is working for the good of the church; and though it be rough, it is a right way to our heavenly Father's house.
All things on earth, and all in heaven,
On God's eternal will depend;
And all for greater good were given,
And all shall in His glory end;
This be my care! and this alone;
Father, in me Thy will be done.
December 29
I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. - Hebrews 13:5
If the Lord is with us, all will be well; but He has promised to be with us always, even unto the end. Anyone but our God would have left us long ago; but He is longsuffering, full of compassion, and of great mercy.
He will go through the whole journey with us, He will be our God to all eternity, and will conduct us through life with safety.
He will be with us in every trouble, to support us - in every trial, to comfort us - in every difficulty, to provide for us--in every danger, to deliver us - and under all circumstances, to bless us.
He will be with us as our heavenly Father - as our firm and faithful Friend - as our God; and we shall be with Him by-and-by, as His children, dependants, and jewels, to be glorified with Him forever.
Beloved, let us rejoice in this, that God will never leave us, troubles may come upon us; but our God will not forsake His people for His great name's sake, because it hath pleased the Lord to make them His people. Having loved His own, He will love them unto the end.
Since He has said, "I'll ne'er depart",
I'll bind His promise to my heart,
Rejoicing in His care :
This shall support while here I live,
And when in glory I arrive,
I'll praise Him for it there.
December 30
A friend loveth at all times. - Proverbs 17:17
Where shall we find such a friend? He that redeems from slavery, and delivers from bondage, is such a friend - but Jesus does this. He that restores to the favour of the judge who condemned, or the Lord who delivered over to bondage, is such a friend - but Jesus does this.
He that admits to intimacy with himself, out of pure love, notwithstanding disparity of condition, is such a friend - but Jesus does this. He who counsels in trouble, and gives the best advice in perplexity, is such a friend - but Jesus does this. He who rescues from foes and renders their attempts to injure us abortive, is such a friend - but Jesus does this. He who takes in the rejected and homeless, who clothes the naked and feeds the hungry is such a friend - but Jesus does this.
He who exposes himself to pain, injury, insult, and death, to do us good, is such a friend - but Jesus has done this. He who expends all his property for our welfare, is such a friend - but Jesus did this. He who kindly reproves our faults in prosperity, and visits, comforts, and relieves in adversity, is such a friend - but Jesus does this. He who loves us through life, in death, and forever, is such a friend - but Jesus doth so.
He is the friend who loveth at all times; changing scenes change not His affection. His friendship flows from purest love, and is founded in a perfect knowledge of our persons - wants - dispositions - and propensities; His friendship is maintained by infinite patience - boundless pity - and the prospect of our being glorified with Him forever. He knows our frame, consults our welfare, and is determined to do us good. He will not allow us to lose by any of His dispensations; but will increase our spiritual wealth by all means.
The friendship of Jesus secures all good, and prevents all evil; He will never fail us nor forsake us. He commenced His friendship with a view to extend it through eternity; and it is the same at the close of the year as it was in the beginning.
O Jesus! let us love Thee with pure affection - walk with Thee in sweetest friendship--and prove ourselves Thy friends in every place! Be thou our Friend--Counsellor--Brother--Lord--and God--in life, death, and forever. Amen.
One there is, above all others,
Well deserves the name of Friend :
His is love beyond a brother's,
Costly, free, and knows no end :
They who once His kindness prove,
Find it everlasting love.
Which, of all friends, to save us,
could or would have shed his blood?
But our Jesus died to have us
Reconciled in Him to God!
This was boundless love indeed,
Jesus is a friend in need! Amen!
December 31
Look unto Me. - Isaiah 45:22
A New Year's morning opens upon us, and we are still exposed to sorrow, Satan, and disappointment; sin lives in us; and a thousand things are ready to distress us; but our God says, "LOOK UNTO ME."
Look unto Me as the source of happiness, the giver of grace, and your Friend. Look unto Me in every trial, for all you want, and in every place. Look unto Me TODAY, I have blessings to bestow. I am waiting to be gracious. I am your Father in Jesus.
Believe that I am deeply interested in your present and eternal welfare; that all I have promised, I will perform; that I am with you, purposely to bless you. I cannot be unconcerned about anything that affects you; and I pledge Myself to make all things work together for your good. You have looked to self, to others, in times past; but you have only met with trouble and disappointment; now look unto Me ALONE, to Me FOR ALL.
Lift up the eye and the heart to Me today, and every day throughout the year; and walk before Me in peace and holiness.
Prove Me hereby, if I will not thus make you holy, useful, and happy; try Me, and find My word of promise true; true to the very letter.
Look to Him, till His mighty love
Thy every thought control;
Its vast, constraining influence prove,
O'er body, spirit, soul.
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