The believer's peace is like a river for continuance. Look at it, rising as a little brook among the mosses of the lone green hill; by and by it leaps as a rugged cataract; anon it flows along that fair valley where the red deer wanders, and the child loves to play. With hum of pleasant music the brook turns the village mill. Hearken to its changeful tune as it ripples over its pebbly bed, or leaps adown the wheel, or sports in eddies where the trees bend down their branches to kiss the current. Anon the streamlet has become a river, and bears upon its flood full many a craft. Then its bosom swells, bridges with noble arches span it, and, grown vaster still, it becomes an estuary, broad enough to be an arm of old Father Ocean, pouring its water-floods into the mighty main. The river abides the lapse of ages; it is no evanescent morning cloud or transient rain-flood, but in all its stages it is permanent.
"Men may come, and men may go,
But I flow on for ever."
Evermore, throughout all generations, the river speedeth to its destined place. Such is the peace of the Christian. He has always reason for comfort. He has not a consolation like a swollen torrent which is dried up under the hot sun of adversity, but peace is his rightful possession at all times. Do you inquire for the Thames? You shall find it flowing in its own bed in the thick black night, as well as in the clear bright day. — SPURGEON.
Showing posts with label inspirational. Show all posts
Showing posts with label inspirational. Show all posts
Friday, April 18, 2008
Thursday, July 19, 2007
God Alone Permanent
1905
How hard it is to keep our footing firm amid the ebb and flow of things! To-day is not yesterday. New things have come to claim attention; many cherished things have gone. An unseen hand is shaking this kaleidoscope of a world, and nothing can last that depends merely upon the present aspect of things. The great problem, therefore, is to seek God with a thirst which will persist through all changes.
Test of Truth of Doctrine
The truth makes free, brings joy, hope, encouragement. The truth of a doctrine may consist in this, does it cause the mind to rejoice? If a doctrine does this, it may be set down as true, as coming from God. If a doctrine casts a shadow over the soul, if it is destructive of calm delight, if it causes faith to halt, trust to doubt, hope to falter, it is surely not of God and His gospel; it is an error of human origin.
Character
Character is great and worthy in itself and not because of the greater or less fame of a deed through which it manifests itself. The sad sacrifice of Gordon at Khartoum, for the sake of England and of Egypt, is of the same heroic quality as the sacrifice of the missionary among the Arabs or the Chinese, of whose name and fame the world hears but little. It is not the kind of thing through which we show ourselves, but the kind of self we have to show, that counts with God.
How hard it is to keep our footing firm amid the ebb and flow of things! To-day is not yesterday. New things have come to claim attention; many cherished things have gone. An unseen hand is shaking this kaleidoscope of a world, and nothing can last that depends merely upon the present aspect of things. The great problem, therefore, is to seek God with a thirst which will persist through all changes.
Test of Truth of Doctrine
The truth makes free, brings joy, hope, encouragement. The truth of a doctrine may consist in this, does it cause the mind to rejoice? If a doctrine does this, it may be set down as true, as coming from God. If a doctrine casts a shadow over the soul, if it is destructive of calm delight, if it causes faith to halt, trust to doubt, hope to falter, it is surely not of God and His gospel; it is an error of human origin.
Character
Character is great and worthy in itself and not because of the greater or less fame of a deed through which it manifests itself. The sad sacrifice of Gordon at Khartoum, for the sake of England and of Egypt, is of the same heroic quality as the sacrifice of the missionary among the Arabs or the Chinese, of whose name and fame the world hears but little. It is not the kind of thing through which we show ourselves, but the kind of self we have to show, that counts with God.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Kipling Made Man's Last Hours Happy
1905
Popular Author Comforted Dying Sailor in Hospital
A pretty story about a popular author was told the other day. A nurse in an American hospital had as patient a sailor who was a great sufferer and not expected to live many days.
The poor man worried a great deal because he thought there would be no sea in heaven. To him the prospect of playing on a golden fiddle offered no attraction. As the priest had failed to comfort him, it occurred to the nurse that it might benefit her patient if she could get Mr. Rudyard Kipling to come and talk a little to him, and as he happened to be visiting the hospital at the time, Mr. Kipling willingly acceded to her request. He said a few words to the dying man and apparently gave him much comfort.
A few days afterward Mr. Kipling sent in his own handwriting a copy of the poem, "The Last Chantey," which the conversation with the sailor had inspired. The dying man was so delighted with it that he expressed a wish for it to be placed in his coffin, and the nurse duly carried out his wish.
If Mr. Kipling's reward for his kind action came in the inspiration he obtained, Shakespeare's well-known description of mercy — "It blesseth him that gives and him that takes" — was justified. — Liverpool (Eng.) Mercury.
Popular Author Comforted Dying Sailor in Hospital
A pretty story about a popular author was told the other day. A nurse in an American hospital had as patient a sailor who was a great sufferer and not expected to live many days.
The poor man worried a great deal because he thought there would be no sea in heaven. To him the prospect of playing on a golden fiddle offered no attraction. As the priest had failed to comfort him, it occurred to the nurse that it might benefit her patient if she could get Mr. Rudyard Kipling to come and talk a little to him, and as he happened to be visiting the hospital at the time, Mr. Kipling willingly acceded to her request. He said a few words to the dying man and apparently gave him much comfort.
A few days afterward Mr. Kipling sent in his own handwriting a copy of the poem, "The Last Chantey," which the conversation with the sailor had inspired. The dying man was so delighted with it that he expressed a wish for it to be placed in his coffin, and the nurse duly carried out his wish.
If Mr. Kipling's reward for his kind action came in the inspiration he obtained, Shakespeare's well-known description of mercy — "It blesseth him that gives and him that takes" — was justified. — Liverpool (Eng.) Mercury.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
For God's Eternal Glory
1905
The sphere of miracle is but an extension and transfiguration of natural force. The title of Dr. Drummond's suggestive work, "Natural Law in the Spiritual World," expresses a truth, which carries us even further than his remarkable exposition of it. God did not make a mistake in the sublime constitution and appointment of universal law." It was intended to be, and shall for ever be, made the vehicle for the manifestation of His eternal glory.
God's Face Hidden
It is a dictum of science that, if light were capable of being seen, we should be blind to aught else, and life would be impossible in its present form. How wonderfully this modern idea chimes in with the old words of the Almighty to Moses: "In the day that thou seest My face thou shalt surely die." If we could see but a small portion of the all-pervading greatness, power and glory of the Creator, would interest be any longer possible in human concerns?
The sphere of miracle is but an extension and transfiguration of natural force. The title of Dr. Drummond's suggestive work, "Natural Law in the Spiritual World," expresses a truth, which carries us even further than his remarkable exposition of it. God did not make a mistake in the sublime constitution and appointment of universal law." It was intended to be, and shall for ever be, made the vehicle for the manifestation of His eternal glory.
God's Face Hidden
It is a dictum of science that, if light were capable of being seen, we should be blind to aught else, and life would be impossible in its present form. How wonderfully this modern idea chimes in with the old words of the Almighty to Moses: "In the day that thou seest My face thou shalt surely die." If we could see but a small portion of the all-pervading greatness, power and glory of the Creator, would interest be any longer possible in human concerns?
Thursday, July 5, 2007
Show Appreciation by Hymns
1905
In South Wales, when the people are pleased with the work of an actor, they have a custom of showing their appreciation by singing hymns at the close of the performance. Henry Irving was playing at Swansea when he was surprised to see the audience burst into "Lead, Kindly Light," when he appeared before the curtain in response to a call. At the close of the engagement the great actor was deeply touched by the singing of "God Be With You Till We Meet Again," rendered in most reverent manner.
1910
"Learn of Me"
"Learn of me," says the Saviour, "for I am meek and lowly in heart." Christ is lowly, not the weakness of failure, but the modest humility of strength, honor and success. Learning from Jesus, doubt and fear, with all their haunting terrors, flee away, and we walk in the bright sunlight of his truth. Learning of Jesus, faith, hope and love make our lives a joy to ourselves and a blessing to others."
Ruling
No man doth safely rule but he that is glad to be ruled. No man doth safely rule but he that hath learned gladly to obey. — Thomas รก Kempis.
In South Wales, when the people are pleased with the work of an actor, they have a custom of showing their appreciation by singing hymns at the close of the performance. Henry Irving was playing at Swansea when he was surprised to see the audience burst into "Lead, Kindly Light," when he appeared before the curtain in response to a call. At the close of the engagement the great actor was deeply touched by the singing of "God Be With You Till We Meet Again," rendered in most reverent manner.
1910
"Learn of Me"
"Learn of me," says the Saviour, "for I am meek and lowly in heart." Christ is lowly, not the weakness of failure, but the modest humility of strength, honor and success. Learning from Jesus, doubt and fear, with all their haunting terrors, flee away, and we walk in the bright sunlight of his truth. Learning of Jesus, faith, hope and love make our lives a joy to ourselves and a blessing to others."
Ruling
No man doth safely rule but he that is glad to be ruled. No man doth safely rule but he that hath learned gladly to obey. — Thomas รก Kempis.
Wednesday, July 4, 2007
Doing God's Work
1905
We are to live in the world pouring into it the fragrance of the love of Christ. There is a legend which says that when Jesus arose and walked out from the tomb in the garden white lilies blossomed where he stepped, so that wherever he went there was beauty and fragrance. So should it be wherever we go, if we are Christ's. We are not to shut ourselves indoors, but are to go out into the world to carry blessing and good among its many needs.
Live for To-day
We are writing with a diamond on a rock. We are writing the Rock of Remembrance with invisible ink. We are accumulating for the future. What we do is done forever. The thoughts we think, the words we speak, the kindly and unkindly acts of daily life, we must face them again. Take heed, therefore. Live for eternity. And the way to live for eternity is to concentrate all the energies of life upon the discharge of present duty. Therefore, live for to-day. — D. J. Burrell, D. D.
We are to live in the world pouring into it the fragrance of the love of Christ. There is a legend which says that when Jesus arose and walked out from the tomb in the garden white lilies blossomed where he stepped, so that wherever he went there was beauty and fragrance. So should it be wherever we go, if we are Christ's. We are not to shut ourselves indoors, but are to go out into the world to carry blessing and good among its many needs.
Live for To-day
We are writing with a diamond on a rock. We are writing the Rock of Remembrance with invisible ink. We are accumulating for the future. What we do is done forever. The thoughts we think, the words we speak, the kindly and unkindly acts of daily life, we must face them again. Take heed, therefore. Live for eternity. And the way to live for eternity is to concentrate all the energies of life upon the discharge of present duty. Therefore, live for to-day. — D. J. Burrell, D. D.
Saturday, June 30, 2007
Good Cheer in Religion
1902
It is a happy thing to live. It is a happy thing to die. Our religion has the promise of the life that now is and also of that which is to come. It makes the world ours and all things in it.
We rejoice in its beauty and its joys, the laughter of little children, the love of young men and maidens, the grave friendship of the old, the confidence of life and the calm and trust which belong to us all. Our religion now tells us to look upon these and all the beautiful things of life, and to take them, holding them in holiness as the happy gifts of our glad God.
And, above all these, and in all these, Christ is now revealed to us. He was and He will be. Yea, and He is. No other day ever set Him so high or loved Him so dearly. To be sure, there is enough that is dark still, and the shadows could be drawn heavily, sadly, but this hour let us see the sunshine and play in it.
The Lord Christ! He is the good cheer of religion to-day, as He has been in all days. If our good cheer is better and cheerier than any of old, it is because we see him more clearly and love Him more dearly because we have gone a little further in making our life His and Him our life. — Congregationalist.
Rewards of Life
The man who sees in life the opportunity to express himself in the highest terms, who after ascertaining what faculties he has determines to develop them to the highest possible efficiency, who is capable of seeing the sweetness and joy that he has about him, who, being proud, does not allow his body or mind to be defiled, he is the one who obtains the big rewards, the big successes. — Mental Growth and Control.
It is a happy thing to live. It is a happy thing to die. Our religion has the promise of the life that now is and also of that which is to come. It makes the world ours and all things in it.
We rejoice in its beauty and its joys, the laughter of little children, the love of young men and maidens, the grave friendship of the old, the confidence of life and the calm and trust which belong to us all. Our religion now tells us to look upon these and all the beautiful things of life, and to take them, holding them in holiness as the happy gifts of our glad God.
And, above all these, and in all these, Christ is now revealed to us. He was and He will be. Yea, and He is. No other day ever set Him so high or loved Him so dearly. To be sure, there is enough that is dark still, and the shadows could be drawn heavily, sadly, but this hour let us see the sunshine and play in it.
The Lord Christ! He is the good cheer of religion to-day, as He has been in all days. If our good cheer is better and cheerier than any of old, it is because we see him more clearly and love Him more dearly because we have gone a little further in making our life His and Him our life. — Congregationalist.
Rewards of Life
The man who sees in life the opportunity to express himself in the highest terms, who after ascertaining what faculties he has determines to develop them to the highest possible efficiency, who is capable of seeing the sweetness and joy that he has about him, who, being proud, does not allow his body or mind to be defiled, he is the one who obtains the big rewards, the big successes. — Mental Growth and Control.
The Need of Tenderness
1902
The grace of tenderness, for it is a grace, should be cultivated for its own sake as well as its invaluable aid in our service for the Master.
True tenderness modulates the voice, illuminates the face and presents the word of life in a spirit of gentleness, which wins a hearing for even unwelcome truths. The world is in need of just such tenderness as was manifested by our Lord, and we as His disciples can render no better service to Him than reflecting His tender sympathy as we pass along life's journey.
People long for tenderness. Harsh measures never won a soul to higher things. Sympathy is the magic key by which we may gain access to hungry, aching hearts. Tenderness may be developed by studying the character of our Master. He recognized the innermost longings of weary mankind, and met this yearning with infinite tenderness and pity. Surely we as His followers should imitate Him to the best of our ability along this line.
Let us determine by the help of the Holy Spirit never to be betrayed into harshness. The world is hard and cold enough without you and I adding to its burden. Rather let us seek by tenderness and sympathy to aid some soul to reach a firmer foundation, and bring joy and peace to some little corner of earth. — George D. Gelwicks.
The grace of tenderness, for it is a grace, should be cultivated for its own sake as well as its invaluable aid in our service for the Master.
True tenderness modulates the voice, illuminates the face and presents the word of life in a spirit of gentleness, which wins a hearing for even unwelcome truths. The world is in need of just such tenderness as was manifested by our Lord, and we as His disciples can render no better service to Him than reflecting His tender sympathy as we pass along life's journey.
People long for tenderness. Harsh measures never won a soul to higher things. Sympathy is the magic key by which we may gain access to hungry, aching hearts. Tenderness may be developed by studying the character of our Master. He recognized the innermost longings of weary mankind, and met this yearning with infinite tenderness and pity. Surely we as His followers should imitate Him to the best of our ability along this line.
Let us determine by the help of the Holy Spirit never to be betrayed into harshness. The world is hard and cold enough without you and I adding to its burden. Rather let us seek by tenderness and sympathy to aid some soul to reach a firmer foundation, and bring joy and peace to some little corner of earth. — George D. Gelwicks.
Sunday, June 17, 2007
Each Day A Thanksgiving
1912
Thanksgiving even for the supreme spiritual gift does not find its source in a sense of what we hold as our own, but far more in the knowledge that we who are so easily bewildered by empty and alluring aims are held, if we are willing, by the risen, living Lord, in balanced sanity and service through his indwelling. Not what we have in our keeping, or have not, but the blessed fact that Christ has us in full eternal keeping, quickens us to proclaim each new day a day of thanksgiving, in abiding confidence and joy. — The Sunday School Times.
It Is Easy To Be Thankful
For One Thing You Can Be Thankful You Are Not a Turkey
Thanksgiving Day is the day when every one says he is thankful, and wants to eat turkey to prove it. If you haven't anything else to be thankful for, you can be thankful you are not a turkey.
Thanksgiving Day was first observed by the Pilgrims, who were thankful that they had five grains of corn apiece. In these extravagant times a man wouldn't be thankful if he had ten grains of corn — which shows conclusively that we are too prosperous. The trusts are doing a noble work in remedying this evil condition.
People have various unreasonable reasons for being thankful on Thanksgiving Day. Some men are thankful they took a wife, and some are thankful they didn't take two. Bachelor maids are thankful they are not "horrid bachelors," and a married woman is always thankful that her husband has a good wife. It is easy to be thankful if you go about it right.
But the thing people are most thankful for is their money — even though they came by it honestly. The more a man has, the more thankful he is that it isn't less; and the less a man has, the less likely he is to be thankful because it isn't more. Be thankful, therefore, that you haven't too much to be thankful for. Turkey tastes all the better for coming but once a year. — Lippincott's.
Thanksgiving even for the supreme spiritual gift does not find its source in a sense of what we hold as our own, but far more in the knowledge that we who are so easily bewildered by empty and alluring aims are held, if we are willing, by the risen, living Lord, in balanced sanity and service through his indwelling. Not what we have in our keeping, or have not, but the blessed fact that Christ has us in full eternal keeping, quickens us to proclaim each new day a day of thanksgiving, in abiding confidence and joy. — The Sunday School Times.
It Is Easy To Be Thankful
For One Thing You Can Be Thankful You Are Not a Turkey
Thanksgiving Day is the day when every one says he is thankful, and wants to eat turkey to prove it. If you haven't anything else to be thankful for, you can be thankful you are not a turkey.
Thanksgiving Day was first observed by the Pilgrims, who were thankful that they had five grains of corn apiece. In these extravagant times a man wouldn't be thankful if he had ten grains of corn — which shows conclusively that we are too prosperous. The trusts are doing a noble work in remedying this evil condition.
People have various unreasonable reasons for being thankful on Thanksgiving Day. Some men are thankful they took a wife, and some are thankful they didn't take two. Bachelor maids are thankful they are not "horrid bachelors," and a married woman is always thankful that her husband has a good wife. It is easy to be thankful if you go about it right.
But the thing people are most thankful for is their money — even though they came by it honestly. The more a man has, the more thankful he is that it isn't less; and the less a man has, the less likely he is to be thankful because it isn't more. Be thankful, therefore, that you haven't too much to be thankful for. Turkey tastes all the better for coming but once a year. — Lippincott's.
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Sentence Sermons - "The Way of Life"
1900
Ram's Horn Wrinkles
Real religion remedies irreligion.
Doing is the proper end of doctrine.
The way of life is the way from death.
Deeds furnish the best answer to doubt.
Loose living and fast living are the same.
The truly spiritual man is always practical.
A feeble faith is better than a mighty feeling.
You may oppress truth, but you cannot suppress it.
The gospel is the heart of God seeking the heart of man.
God has not cast the world adrift; it has wandered away.
Men need a Bible conscience more than a Bible commentary.
Love, rather than legislation, rules in the kingdom of God.
It is always easier to forget bad habits than to forgo them.
No song, or sermon, or sacrament is acceptable without service.
The impartation of righteousness is better than its imputation.
It is the Christian and not the critic who comes to know Christ.
A lie feels easy only when it forgets that it has a truth on its track.
Crooked men cannot expect to agree with the straight truths of the Bible.
The damp fogs of doubt are found only where the sun of love does not shine. — Ram's Horn.
Ram's Horn Wrinkles
Real religion remedies irreligion.
Doing is the proper end of doctrine.
The way of life is the way from death.
Deeds furnish the best answer to doubt.
Loose living and fast living are the same.
The truly spiritual man is always practical.
A feeble faith is better than a mighty feeling.
You may oppress truth, but you cannot suppress it.
The gospel is the heart of God seeking the heart of man.
God has not cast the world adrift; it has wandered away.
Men need a Bible conscience more than a Bible commentary.
Love, rather than legislation, rules in the kingdom of God.
It is always easier to forget bad habits than to forgo them.
No song, or sermon, or sacrament is acceptable without service.
The impartation of righteousness is better than its imputation.
It is the Christian and not the critic who comes to know Christ.
A lie feels easy only when it forgets that it has a truth on its track.
Crooked men cannot expect to agree with the straight truths of the Bible.
The damp fogs of doubt are found only where the sun of love does not shine. — Ram's Horn.
The Danger of Charity — Completely Pauperized
1910
Albert W. Hebbard, New York's charity expert, said at a recent dinner:
"The great danger of charity is its pauperizing effect. This effect must be avoided, or the recipients will all become Jack Hanches.
"Jack Hanch, on the score of bad health never worked, and the pastor of the Methodist church, a man whose heart sometimes outran his head, sent the idler and his family weekly gifts of food and clothing — supported the whole crew, in fact.
"A church visitor, after listening to Jack's complaints one day, said:
" 'Yes, of course, you have had bad health, we know that; but one thing at least you ought to be thankful for, and that is our pastor's kindness in sending you all this bread and meat and jelly and blankets and so on. Don't you think it is good of him to look after you so well?"
" 'Good of him?' said Jack, impatiently. 'Why, what's he for?' "
Contented Heart Brings Cheer
This world is only a place of pilgrimage, but after all there is a good deal of cheer on the journey, if it is made with a contented heart. — Henry Van Dyke.
The Unlucky Mandrake
From time immemorial the mandrake has been associated with enchantments, and has ever been believed to be one of the most powerful charms of witches. Mr. Conway in a paper on "Mystic Trees and Flowers," states that "by popular superstitions in some places it is said to be perpetually watched over by Satan, and if it be pulled up at certain holy times and with certain invocations, the evil spirit will appear to do the bidding of the petitioner." (See Genesis 30:14ff).
Albert W. Hebbard, New York's charity expert, said at a recent dinner:
"The great danger of charity is its pauperizing effect. This effect must be avoided, or the recipients will all become Jack Hanches.
"Jack Hanch, on the score of bad health never worked, and the pastor of the Methodist church, a man whose heart sometimes outran his head, sent the idler and his family weekly gifts of food and clothing — supported the whole crew, in fact.
"A church visitor, after listening to Jack's complaints one day, said:
" 'Yes, of course, you have had bad health, we know that; but one thing at least you ought to be thankful for, and that is our pastor's kindness in sending you all this bread and meat and jelly and blankets and so on. Don't you think it is good of him to look after you so well?"
" 'Good of him?' said Jack, impatiently. 'Why, what's he for?' "
Contented Heart Brings Cheer
This world is only a place of pilgrimage, but after all there is a good deal of cheer on the journey, if it is made with a contented heart. — Henry Van Dyke.
The Unlucky Mandrake
From time immemorial the mandrake has been associated with enchantments, and has ever been believed to be one of the most powerful charms of witches. Mr. Conway in a paper on "Mystic Trees and Flowers," states that "by popular superstitions in some places it is said to be perpetually watched over by Satan, and if it be pulled up at certain holy times and with certain invocations, the evil spirit will appear to do the bidding of the petitioner." (See Genesis 30:14ff).
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Faith On Trial (James 1:1-18)
2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations; 3 knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.
People of faith sometimes think it's strange that they have problems and others perhaps do not. The Bible gives enough evidence that it doesn't need to seem so strange. This questioning comes up often enough in the Psalms (10:1), and then there's the story of Job.
James has some advice that turns it all around: "Count it all joy." How is that possible? For anyone who's been camping, you might have a few stories to tell of various disasters that not only can you laugh about now, but they were also kind of funny at the time! Or in a more serious light, think of Jesus at the Cross (Heb. 12:2), with the "joy" set before Him. For us, pain is pain, but behind every cloud...
So what is it that tries your faith? There are many problems we can think of involving children, sickness, finances, various failures. Sometimes just life in general. All are real problems, but our faith can endure and our joy can be real. "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose" (Rom. 8:28).
James declares in verse 3 that the trial of faith results in patience, which, as we're involved in these real life issues, can indeed "have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing" (1:4). That's a good result, progress on the way. Faith doesn't need to waver (1:6); we can hang on, and become stronger in our faith. That's really the whole point!
God sustains us through prayer (Phil. 4:6), the word (Rom. 10:17), and by His care (1 Pt. 5:7), just to name a few of the many ways. And in this chapter of James (1:5), God offers wisdom to those who ask it of Him.
So, your faith is on trial. Don't despair! Recognize it, look to God, handle things as best as you can in a spiritual way, and let your faith help you endure everything. It's helpful now and it will be stronger next time.
People of faith sometimes think it's strange that they have problems and others perhaps do not. The Bible gives enough evidence that it doesn't need to seem so strange. This questioning comes up often enough in the Psalms (10:1), and then there's the story of Job.
James has some advice that turns it all around: "Count it all joy." How is that possible? For anyone who's been camping, you might have a few stories to tell of various disasters that not only can you laugh about now, but they were also kind of funny at the time! Or in a more serious light, think of Jesus at the Cross (Heb. 12:2), with the "joy" set before Him. For us, pain is pain, but behind every cloud...
So what is it that tries your faith? There are many problems we can think of involving children, sickness, finances, various failures. Sometimes just life in general. All are real problems, but our faith can endure and our joy can be real. "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose" (Rom. 8:28).
James declares in verse 3 that the trial of faith results in patience, which, as we're involved in these real life issues, can indeed "have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing" (1:4). That's a good result, progress on the way. Faith doesn't need to waver (1:6); we can hang on, and become stronger in our faith. That's really the whole point!
God sustains us through prayer (Phil. 4:6), the word (Rom. 10:17), and by His care (1 Pt. 5:7), just to name a few of the many ways. And in this chapter of James (1:5), God offers wisdom to those who ask it of Him.
So, your faith is on trial. Don't despair! Recognize it, look to God, handle things as best as you can in a spiritual way, and let your faith help you endure everything. It's helpful now and it will be stronger next time.
Popularity of Thais
1910
"Every other young actress is calling herself Thais," said Henry E. Dixey at a dinner at Mauquin's. "Thais McGinnis, Thais Endicott, Thais Schmidt — the thing is universal.
"Universal and ridiculous; for they who have read Anatole France's story of 'Thais' know that she was a very naughty little girl, indeed. I am quite sure that no real reader of 'Thais' would ever, under any circumstances, consent to be called such a name.
"It makes me think of a man who, taking his infant daughter to be baptized, told the clergyman to call her Venus.
" 'But I refuse to call her Venus,' said the clergyman, indignantly. 'Venus is the name of a pagan goddess.'
" 'Well, how about your own girl, Diana?' said the man."
Clear Conscience
The man with a clear conscience and the desire and ability to live the right life may possess both fame and wealth to advantage to himself and those about him. — Rev. W. S. Bovard, Presbyterian, Indianapolis.
Cheerful Like Children
Cheerfulness should be the gift of the sunlight, the air should suffice for inspiration, and radiance of wisdom is the lonely waste of the pine woods, making us dance and run about happily like children. — Emerson.
"Every other young actress is calling herself Thais," said Henry E. Dixey at a dinner at Mauquin's. "Thais McGinnis, Thais Endicott, Thais Schmidt — the thing is universal.
"Universal and ridiculous; for they who have read Anatole France's story of 'Thais' know that she was a very naughty little girl, indeed. I am quite sure that no real reader of 'Thais' would ever, under any circumstances, consent to be called such a name.
"It makes me think of a man who, taking his infant daughter to be baptized, told the clergyman to call her Venus.
" 'But I refuse to call her Venus,' said the clergyman, indignantly. 'Venus is the name of a pagan goddess.'
" 'Well, how about your own girl, Diana?' said the man."
Clear Conscience
The man with a clear conscience and the desire and ability to live the right life may possess both fame and wealth to advantage to himself and those about him. — Rev. W. S. Bovard, Presbyterian, Indianapolis.
Cheerful Like Children
Cheerfulness should be the gift of the sunlight, the air should suffice for inspiration, and radiance of wisdom is the lonely waste of the pine woods, making us dance and run about happily like children. — Emerson.
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
A Plea for Hopefulness
1910
Pessimism is a Sin, the Pessimist a Man to Avoid
Hopefulness is a true sign of greatness. It means a conviction that we are greater than our troubles, greater than the world itself, greater than death, and can hold our own whenever it comes, in the universe anywhere and through all eternity.
Such conviction makes a man a god. It is better than riches or high position. It makes a poor man a king. A person who constantly fears or worries is practically an atheist. He has no faith in himself or any other being, He does not usually live long. Worry kills more than whisky; it really hardens the arteries.
No man has a right to kill his friends by a sad, morose countenance. A long face is a mark of religion. It is out of date just now and forever. Sour-looking people should be shut up in jail; they are dangerous. It is a good thing to throw back your shoulders, walk erect, and believe that you own the whole city. You do as really as anyone else, and you feel better for the belief.
Most of our troubles are fear for the future, only "bogies" which disappear when you walk up to them. There is a good time coming. It is here already, if we only knew it.
"To doubt would be disloyalty,
To falter would be sin."
Recipe for a Long Life
He who would live long, healthfully and happily in the land should avoid all anger, hatred, jealousy, revenge, fear, anxiety and worry. He should earnestly cultivate those two great virtues, calmness and kindliness. For calmness and kindliness are not only moral virtues, but are the most valuable of all hygienic influences.
Pessimism is a Sin, the Pessimist a Man to Avoid
Hopefulness is a true sign of greatness. It means a conviction that we are greater than our troubles, greater than the world itself, greater than death, and can hold our own whenever it comes, in the universe anywhere and through all eternity.
Such conviction makes a man a god. It is better than riches or high position. It makes a poor man a king. A person who constantly fears or worries is practically an atheist. He has no faith in himself or any other being, He does not usually live long. Worry kills more than whisky; it really hardens the arteries.
No man has a right to kill his friends by a sad, morose countenance. A long face is a mark of religion. It is out of date just now and forever. Sour-looking people should be shut up in jail; they are dangerous. It is a good thing to throw back your shoulders, walk erect, and believe that you own the whole city. You do as really as anyone else, and you feel better for the belief.
Most of our troubles are fear for the future, only "bogies" which disappear when you walk up to them. There is a good time coming. It is here already, if we only knew it.
"To doubt would be disloyalty,
To falter would be sin."
Recipe for a Long Life
He who would live long, healthfully and happily in the land should avoid all anger, hatred, jealousy, revenge, fear, anxiety and worry. He should earnestly cultivate those two great virtues, calmness and kindliness. For calmness and kindliness are not only moral virtues, but are the most valuable of all hygienic influences.
Friday, June 8, 2007
The Man Christ Jesus
1874
May God Hasten the Consummation
Jesus Christ has trod the world. The trace of the divine footsteps will never be obliterated. And the divine footsteps were the footsteps of a man.
The example of Christ is such as men can follow. On! until mankind wears his image. On! toward yon summit on which stands, not an angel, not a disembodied spirit, not an abstract of ideal and unattainable virtues, but the man Christ Jesus.
It is something to have a clear margin left for effort, a clear possibility marked for improvement. When humanity has become like His humanity, we may pause; we shall then be aware that the clouds above our heads have beamed into the unutterable beauty of Heaven, that the lilies of the field have glowed with immortal amaranths.
May God Almighty hasten the consummation, and may we, with passionate, steady, burning, unquenchable ardor, strive to know and imitate Christ. — Peter Bayne.
May God Hasten the Consummation
Jesus Christ has trod the world. The trace of the divine footsteps will never be obliterated. And the divine footsteps were the footsteps of a man.
The example of Christ is such as men can follow. On! until mankind wears his image. On! toward yon summit on which stands, not an angel, not a disembodied spirit, not an abstract of ideal and unattainable virtues, but the man Christ Jesus.
It is something to have a clear margin left for effort, a clear possibility marked for improvement. When humanity has become like His humanity, we may pause; we shall then be aware that the clouds above our heads have beamed into the unutterable beauty of Heaven, that the lilies of the field have glowed with immortal amaranths.
May God Almighty hasten the consummation, and may we, with passionate, steady, burning, unquenchable ardor, strive to know and imitate Christ. — Peter Bayne.
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
Wise Words — "The Wise Man Can Learn"
1896
A little religion is hard to keep.
When love works, it always does its best.
Sin always feels the safest in the dark.
Humility dies the moment it looks in the glass.
The man who hates light, will run from a shadow.
A city's righteous men are a better safeguard than its police.
Don't be a saint in church and a heathen on the street car.
The wise man can learn something from the mistakes of a fool.
In nine cases out of ten the man who has riches paid too much for them.
Give a lie one day the start, and truth will have to chase it around the world.
If there is any dog in a man, it is sure to growl when his food is not to his taste.
Many a man whose prayers are too long, sells goods by a measure that is too short.
If the sun never went down, there are some crimes that would not be committed.
Many a man will fight for his creed, who never has a word of encouragement for his wife. — Ram's Horn.
A little religion is hard to keep.
When love works, it always does its best.
Sin always feels the safest in the dark.
Humility dies the moment it looks in the glass.
The man who hates light, will run from a shadow.
A city's righteous men are a better safeguard than its police.
Don't be a saint in church and a heathen on the street car.
The wise man can learn something from the mistakes of a fool.
In nine cases out of ten the man who has riches paid too much for them.
Give a lie one day the start, and truth will have to chase it around the world.
If there is any dog in a man, it is sure to growl when his food is not to his taste.
Many a man whose prayers are too long, sells goods by a measure that is too short.
If the sun never went down, there are some crimes that would not be committed.
Many a man will fight for his creed, who never has a word of encouragement for his wife. — Ram's Horn.
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Religion, Science, and Facts
1911
Science Does Not Stop With What Can Be Demonstrated
"Nothing else has to do with so many facts and so great facts as religion," says the Advance of Chicago, "and to call only those things fact which physical science considers and to ignore the facts which fall within the sphere of religious faith and action is to be blind to the most important thing of life.
"What is more absurd than to see in the wall which houses a hospital a fact and not to see a fact in the spirit which prompted and pervades the institution, or to see a fact in the chemical change produced by an experiment in a laboratory and not to see a fact in the change wrought in a community or an individual life by a revival or other spiritual influences?
"But it is said that Christian faith reaches beyond facts into the unknown. This is not disputed. There is no need to dispute it. Science does the same thing. It never yet discovered a fact great or small which did not carry it over into the unknown. Indeed, notwithstanding all the claims to the contrary, science does not confine itself to facts. 'Any one who is practically acquainted with scientific work,' says Mr. Huxley, 'is aware that those who refuse to go beyond fact rarely ever get so far as fact.'
"Indeed, science brings its followers at last to the borders of the unknown, where hope and fear quiver at the thought of the mystery beyond. But here faith takes the believer up in its arms and bids him look to the everlasting Father, who holds all things in his hands."
Science Does Not Stop With What Can Be Demonstrated
"Nothing else has to do with so many facts and so great facts as religion," says the Advance of Chicago, "and to call only those things fact which physical science considers and to ignore the facts which fall within the sphere of religious faith and action is to be blind to the most important thing of life.
"What is more absurd than to see in the wall which houses a hospital a fact and not to see a fact in the spirit which prompted and pervades the institution, or to see a fact in the chemical change produced by an experiment in a laboratory and not to see a fact in the change wrought in a community or an individual life by a revival or other spiritual influences?
"But it is said that Christian faith reaches beyond facts into the unknown. This is not disputed. There is no need to dispute it. Science does the same thing. It never yet discovered a fact great or small which did not carry it over into the unknown. Indeed, notwithstanding all the claims to the contrary, science does not confine itself to facts. 'Any one who is practically acquainted with scientific work,' says Mr. Huxley, 'is aware that those who refuse to go beyond fact rarely ever get so far as fact.'
"Indeed, science brings its followers at last to the borders of the unknown, where hope and fear quiver at the thought of the mystery beyond. But here faith takes the believer up in its arms and bids him look to the everlasting Father, who holds all things in his hands."
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Living the Life of Self-Surrender
1902
There will come to every manly man times in his life when he will see that there is something which is legitimately his, something which he has a right to, something which nobody can blame him if he takes and enjoys to the fullest, and yet something by whose voluntary and uncompelled surrender he can help his fellow man and aid the work of Christ and make the world better.
Then will come that man's trial. If he fails and cannot make the sacrifice, nobody will blame him; he will simply sink into the great multitude of honorable, respectable, self-indulgent people who take the comfortable things which everybody says they are entitled to, and live their easy life without a question.
But if he is of better stuff, and makes the renunciation of comfort for a higher work, then he goes up and stands humbly, but really, with Jesus Christ. He enters into the other range, that other sort of life where Jesus Christ lived. He is perfectly satisfied with that higher life. He does not envy, he does not grudge, the self-indulgent lives which he has left behind. He does not count up what he has lost; he does not ask whether he is happier or less happy than he would have been if he had kept what everybody said he had a right to keep.
It is not a question of happiness with him at all, but gradually, without his seeking it, he finds that the soul of the happiness which he has left behind him is in him still. Like fountains of sweet water in the sea it rises up and keeps him a living soul. He has left the world's pleasures and its privileges only to draw nearer to its necessities, which are its real life. So what he gave he keeps a thousand fold in this present time, and eternity is still before him, in the end everlasting life. — Phillips Brooks.
There will come to every manly man times in his life when he will see that there is something which is legitimately his, something which he has a right to, something which nobody can blame him if he takes and enjoys to the fullest, and yet something by whose voluntary and uncompelled surrender he can help his fellow man and aid the work of Christ and make the world better.
Then will come that man's trial. If he fails and cannot make the sacrifice, nobody will blame him; he will simply sink into the great multitude of honorable, respectable, self-indulgent people who take the comfortable things which everybody says they are entitled to, and live their easy life without a question.
But if he is of better stuff, and makes the renunciation of comfort for a higher work, then he goes up and stands humbly, but really, with Jesus Christ. He enters into the other range, that other sort of life where Jesus Christ lived. He is perfectly satisfied with that higher life. He does not envy, he does not grudge, the self-indulgent lives which he has left behind. He does not count up what he has lost; he does not ask whether he is happier or less happy than he would have been if he had kept what everybody said he had a right to keep.
It is not a question of happiness with him at all, but gradually, without his seeking it, he finds that the soul of the happiness which he has left behind him is in him still. Like fountains of sweet water in the sea it rises up and keeps him a living soul. He has left the world's pleasures and its privileges only to draw nearer to its necessities, which are its real life. So what he gave he keeps a thousand fold in this present time, and eternity is still before him, in the end everlasting life. — Phillips Brooks.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Divine Help Promised for Temptation
1903
Temptation to evil is a matter in which our personal moral fiber is involved, just as in a trial through suffering our powers of endurance are tested. What is your attitude toward evil? Is it one of apology and condonement? How perilous! Is it one easy familiarity? God pity your weakness! We have a duty to ourselves. Luther used to say: "We cannot keep the birds from flying around our heads, but we can prevent them from building their nests in our hair." We may not be able to keep temptation away, but we need not let it in the house. We should not expect God to lock the door and keep His hand upon it. We are the doorkeeper of our own souls.
Naturalists tell us that the scorpion will never use his sting, of which he is exceedingly careful, unless he can find a spot on the body of his desired victim sufficiently soft to admit its insertion without fear of injury. Temptation never assails the soul except at vulnerable points. Our own lusts determine the spots which the enemy strikes.
But fortunately the whole burden of resisting temptation to evil does not rest with us. Divine help is promised. "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask God." Wisdom is called by a sound writer "the art of Christian conduct." That art can be acquired of Christ Himself. He was tempted in all points as we are, yet without sin. He can and will impart the power of successful resistance. Moreover, there is specific promise in the premises. "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to men, but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able, but will also with the temptation make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." For him that endures there is the blessed crown of life. – Rev. George P. Eckman, pastor of St. Paul's M.E. Church, New York City.
Temptation to evil is a matter in which our personal moral fiber is involved, just as in a trial through suffering our powers of endurance are tested. What is your attitude toward evil? Is it one of apology and condonement? How perilous! Is it one easy familiarity? God pity your weakness! We have a duty to ourselves. Luther used to say: "We cannot keep the birds from flying around our heads, but we can prevent them from building their nests in our hair." We may not be able to keep temptation away, but we need not let it in the house. We should not expect God to lock the door and keep His hand upon it. We are the doorkeeper of our own souls.
Naturalists tell us that the scorpion will never use his sting, of which he is exceedingly careful, unless he can find a spot on the body of his desired victim sufficiently soft to admit its insertion without fear of injury. Temptation never assails the soul except at vulnerable points. Our own lusts determine the spots which the enemy strikes.
But fortunately the whole burden of resisting temptation to evil does not rest with us. Divine help is promised. "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask God." Wisdom is called by a sound writer "the art of Christian conduct." That art can be acquired of Christ Himself. He was tempted in all points as we are, yet without sin. He can and will impart the power of successful resistance. Moreover, there is specific promise in the premises. "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to men, but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able, but will also with the temptation make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." For him that endures there is the blessed crown of life. – Rev. George P. Eckman, pastor of St. Paul's M.E. Church, New York City.
A True Christian — Sharing Christ's Ideals
1903
Children enjoy music long before they understand the color, scale and the laws of harmony. Indeed, millions go through life enjoying the beautiful in nature and art without ever knowing anything about the laws by which colors complement each other. Also millions go through life as Christians without ever stopping to work out philosophically their ideas about the Bible or the church or the creed. And yet they are Christians, because they are loyal to Christ.
History tells of a young paint-grinder in the studio of Italy's great master who developed striking evidences of artistic skill. When an enemy of the great teacher came to the boy and urged him to found a school of his own, saying that wealth and honors and invitations to kings' palaces might be his, the youth answered in effect: "I am not ambitious to found a school or dwell in a palace, but I am ambitious to catch Raphael's spirit and reproduce in myself his ideals."
Now, that simple thought condenses in a word the essence of the Christian life. It is an ambition to rise to the level of Christ's thoughts, to feel His throb of sympathy toward the poor and weak, to abhor evil as He abhorred it, to hunger for righteousness as He hungered for it and to walk with our Father as Christ walked with His. He is a Christian who is loyal to Christ in thoughts, sympathies, friendships, purposes and ideals. — Newell Dwight Hillis.
Children enjoy music long before they understand the color, scale and the laws of harmony. Indeed, millions go through life enjoying the beautiful in nature and art without ever knowing anything about the laws by which colors complement each other. Also millions go through life as Christians without ever stopping to work out philosophically their ideas about the Bible or the church or the creed. And yet they are Christians, because they are loyal to Christ.
History tells of a young paint-grinder in the studio of Italy's great master who developed striking evidences of artistic skill. When an enemy of the great teacher came to the boy and urged him to found a school of his own, saying that wealth and honors and invitations to kings' palaces might be his, the youth answered in effect: "I am not ambitious to found a school or dwell in a palace, but I am ambitious to catch Raphael's spirit and reproduce in myself his ideals."
Now, that simple thought condenses in a word the essence of the Christian life. It is an ambition to rise to the level of Christ's thoughts, to feel His throb of sympathy toward the poor and weak, to abhor evil as He abhorred it, to hunger for righteousness as He hungered for it and to walk with our Father as Christ walked with His. He is a Christian who is loyal to Christ in thoughts, sympathies, friendships, purposes and ideals. — Newell Dwight Hillis.
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