A Curious Meditation # 4
There are three things which await me: a crown of righteousness, a palm of victory, and a throne of glory.
There are three things which shall be done for me: God shall wipe away all tears from my eyes, God shall remove all cause of pain and sorrow from my nature, and the Lamb in the midst of the throne shall eternally satisfy me.
There are three things which shall never be known by me: the frown of divine justice, the curse of holy Jehovah, and the power of God's anger.
There are three things which are hurtful to me: carnal ease, the flattery of professors, and fullness of bread.
There are three things which benefit me" temptation, affliction, and opposition.
There are three things which are pursued by me: to know more of the Lord, to live in peace with all men, and thorough sanctification.
satan tries to thwart me in three things:by spoiling my comforts, hindering my usefulness, and seeking to devour my soul.
satan has three things to expect: to be disappointed of his prey, to be judged by the saints, and to be eternally punished for his wickedness.
There are three things which I would never trust: my own heart, an arm of flesh, and my treacherous memory.
There are three subjects which I should never meddle with: the fall of the angels, the origin of moral evil, and how God will justify himself.
There are three things which I cannot understand: the nature of God, the cause of my election, and how divinity and humanity constitute one person.
There are three things which I should often think of: what I have been, what I now am, and what I shall be.
I am an heir of three worlds: the natural, the spiritual, and the eternal.
There are three things which comprise all I wish: to know God, and glorify Him, to see Jesus, and be like Him; and to be united to the saints, and be eternally happy.
There are three things which must come down: the pride of men, the devil's kingdom, and the cause of error.
There are three things which will stand: the house built on the Rock, the purpose of God, and the Messiah's kingdom.
There are three things which cannot be removed: the church of God, the covenant of grace, and the kingdom we receive.
Lost sinners are like satan in three things: their nature, their employment, and their end.
Three things make hell: the wrath of God, the stings of a guilty conscience, and black despair.
Christ fills three offices: a prophet - for the ignorant, a priest - for the guilty, and a king - for the depraved.
Christ has been in three states: ancient glory, deep humiliation, and merited dignity.
What more shall I say!
If you, reader, are a sincere Christian do three things daily: search God's Word, be much at God's throne, and be diligent in God's work.
If you are an unconverted sinner - do three things immediately: believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, repent of every sin you have committed, seek the witness and pledge of the Holy Spirit in your heart, so iniquity shall not be your ruin.
~James Smith~
(The End)
Saturday, October 26, 2019
Paul's Seven Wishes # 4
Paul's Seven Wishes # 4
My soul, I charge you so to live, so to labor, so to suffer, so to believe, and so to die - that you may rejoice in the day of Christ. Look forward to it, as to the day of jubilee, the year of release - and expect grace to be brought unto you at that appearing of Jesus Christ.
We have thus looked at Paul's seven wishes. He had others, no doubt; but these were his principal, his abiding ones. All of Paul's desires are gratified - but one.
Now he knows Christ, not in part - but even as also he is known.
He was won Christ, and possesses Him as the prize of his high calling. There is no running, wrestling, or striving now. No, no, Christ is his - in the highest, in the fullest, in the most glorious sense of the term.
He has magnified Christ in his body, both in life and in death; and he now magnifies Christ in glory before thrones, and dominions, and principalities, and powers!
He is found in Christ. Death found him in Christ, and he said, "I am ready!" The ministering angel found him in Christ and conducted him up to the eternal throne, and there is is in Christ forever!
He is conformed to Christ in holiness, happiness, and glory - as concerning his soul, and will be in reference to his body "at the resurrection of the just."
He is with Christ, in the presence of His Father. With Christ, in the mansion prepared for him in his Father's house. With Christ, and with Christ forever!
But the last wish waits to be realized - and it will be soon. For "he who shall come, will come - and will not tarry!" "The Lord my God will come, and all the saints with Him!"
The redemption of the body will soon take place - the redemption of the purchased possession will soon be realized; then the groans of creation will be silenced, the prayers of the church will be ended, the promises that refer to that glorious period will be fulfilled, and the whole earth will be filled with His glory! Then the knowledge of the Lord will cover the earth, as the waters cover the sea. All flesh will see the salvation of God. The glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together - for the mouth of the Lord has spoken it!
We must close our remarks. A man's state before God, may be known by the nature and character of the abiding desires of his soul. For if as Solomon said, "As he thinks in his heart - so is he;" so we may say, "As he desires in his heart - so is he."
If our desires meet and center in Christ - we must be true Christians. If to know Christ, to win Christ, to magnify Christ, to be found in Christ, to be conformed to Christ, to be with Christ, and rejoice in the day of Christ's second coming - are the desires of our souls - then we are as really Christians as Paul was!
Paul, you see, begins with Christ, goes on with Christ, and ends with Christ. Christ was his Alpha - and Christ was his Omega. Christ was the circle within which he moved, the center to which he constantly tended.
The grace of Christ converted him, faith in Christ gave him peace. Is our religion, then, like Paul's?
Holy Spirit, glorify Jesus in us, by us, and through us, more and more every day! "For to me, to live is Christ - and to die is gain!
Christ is my all, my sure defense,
Nor shall my soul depart from thence:
He is my rock, my refuge too,
In spite of all my foes can do!
Christ is my all, and He will lead
My soul in pastures green to feed;
'Tis he supplies my every want,
And will all needful blessings grant.
Christ is my all - where should I go?
Without Him I can nothing do;
Helpless and weak, a sinner great,
Yet in His righteousness complete!
~James Smith~
(The End)
My soul, I charge you so to live, so to labor, so to suffer, so to believe, and so to die - that you may rejoice in the day of Christ. Look forward to it, as to the day of jubilee, the year of release - and expect grace to be brought unto you at that appearing of Jesus Christ.
We have thus looked at Paul's seven wishes. He had others, no doubt; but these were his principal, his abiding ones. All of Paul's desires are gratified - but one.
Now he knows Christ, not in part - but even as also he is known.
He was won Christ, and possesses Him as the prize of his high calling. There is no running, wrestling, or striving now. No, no, Christ is his - in the highest, in the fullest, in the most glorious sense of the term.
He has magnified Christ in his body, both in life and in death; and he now magnifies Christ in glory before thrones, and dominions, and principalities, and powers!
He is found in Christ. Death found him in Christ, and he said, "I am ready!" The ministering angel found him in Christ and conducted him up to the eternal throne, and there is is in Christ forever!
He is conformed to Christ in holiness, happiness, and glory - as concerning his soul, and will be in reference to his body "at the resurrection of the just."
He is with Christ, in the presence of His Father. With Christ, in the mansion prepared for him in his Father's house. With Christ, and with Christ forever!
But the last wish waits to be realized - and it will be soon. For "he who shall come, will come - and will not tarry!" "The Lord my God will come, and all the saints with Him!"
The redemption of the body will soon take place - the redemption of the purchased possession will soon be realized; then the groans of creation will be silenced, the prayers of the church will be ended, the promises that refer to that glorious period will be fulfilled, and the whole earth will be filled with His glory! Then the knowledge of the Lord will cover the earth, as the waters cover the sea. All flesh will see the salvation of God. The glory of the Lord will be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together - for the mouth of the Lord has spoken it!
We must close our remarks. A man's state before God, may be known by the nature and character of the abiding desires of his soul. For if as Solomon said, "As he thinks in his heart - so is he;" so we may say, "As he desires in his heart - so is he."
If our desires meet and center in Christ - we must be true Christians. If to know Christ, to win Christ, to magnify Christ, to be found in Christ, to be conformed to Christ, to be with Christ, and rejoice in the day of Christ's second coming - are the desires of our souls - then we are as really Christians as Paul was!
Paul, you see, begins with Christ, goes on with Christ, and ends with Christ. Christ was his Alpha - and Christ was his Omega. Christ was the circle within which he moved, the center to which he constantly tended.
The grace of Christ converted him, faith in Christ gave him peace. Is our religion, then, like Paul's?
Holy Spirit, glorify Jesus in us, by us, and through us, more and more every day! "For to me, to live is Christ - and to die is gain!
Christ is my all, my sure defense,
Nor shall my soul depart from thence:
He is my rock, my refuge too,
In spite of all my foes can do!
Christ is my all, and He will lead
My soul in pastures green to feed;
'Tis he supplies my every want,
And will all needful blessings grant.
Christ is my all - where should I go?
Without Him I can nothing do;
Helpless and weak, a sinner great,
Yet in His righteousness complete!
~James Smith~
(The End)
Saturday, October 19, 2019
A Curious Meditation # 3
A Curious Meditation # 3
There are three things which have been taken from me: proud free will, vain boasting, and enmity to God.
There are three things which abide with me: faith, hope, and charity.
I am made up of three men: corruption - the old man, grace - the new man, and the body - the outward man.
I fill a threefold office: a prophet in the Church of Christ, a priest before the altar, and a king anointed to reign with Christ.
I wear a threefold garment: the righteousness of the Lord Jesus, the graces of the Holy Spirit, and the garment of humility.
I have been condemned in three courts - and yet justified in them all: the court of conscience, the Church of God, and the court of God's justice.
I have been justified three times: at the resurrection of Christ my substitute, when faith received His righteousness, and when good works justified my faith before the world.
I am the subject of a threefold sanctification: by the purpose of the Father, by the blood of the Son, and by the cleansing operations of the Holy Spirit.
I am a free man of three cities: the present world, the church below, and the Jerusalem which is above.
I have been an eye-sore to three parties: the devil, the world, and envious professors.
I have have occupied three peculiar seats: a dunghill by nature, among the princes in the Church by grace, and the throne of glory by special privilege.
I shall have three grand holidays: one when the Holy Spirit sets my soul at liberty, another when death sets me free from this mortal clay, and another when Jesus comes to be glorified in His saints.
I shall then have appeared in three different characters: a vile rebel against God, a supplicating sinner at mercy's footstool, and a justified son of God before His throne.
I shall have had three fathers: a human father, the devil, and Jehovah Himself.
I shall have received three laws: the law of nature, the moral law of God, and the law of the Spirit of life.
I shall have passed through three gates: the gate of hope, the gate into Christ's sheepfold, and the gate of death.
I shall have walked in three ways: the broad road of destruction, the highway of holiness, and Jesus Christ the only way to the Father.
I shall have conversed with three distinct classes of beings: carnal men, spiritual Christians, and the Lord Himself.
I shall have made three appearances: once all black - like the devil, then speckled - with nature and grace, and then all pure - whiter than the driven snow!
I shall have undergone three momentous changes: one at regeneration - when I passed from death unto life, one at death - when my soul shall be admitted into Heaven, and one at the resurrection - when my body shall be raised powerful, glorious and immortal.
I view three things as pre-eminently excellent: the fear of the Lord, a sound judgment, and Christ formed in the heart, as the hope of glory.
There are three things which I may covet: the best gifts, a contrite and humble spirit, and to be filled with all the fullness of God.
There are three things which are removed from me: the burden of sin, the wrath of God, and all condemnation.
There are three things which I do not know: what is before me, how God will provide for me, and what I shall be.
There are three things which I do know: that in my flesh dwells no good, that though I was once blind, now I see, and that I must needs die.
There are three things which are prepared for me: a fountain to cleanse me, a robe to adorn me, and a mansion to receive me.
~James Smith~
(continued with # 4)
There are three things which have been taken from me: proud free will, vain boasting, and enmity to God.
There are three things which abide with me: faith, hope, and charity.
I am made up of three men: corruption - the old man, grace - the new man, and the body - the outward man.
I fill a threefold office: a prophet in the Church of Christ, a priest before the altar, and a king anointed to reign with Christ.
I wear a threefold garment: the righteousness of the Lord Jesus, the graces of the Holy Spirit, and the garment of humility.
I have been condemned in three courts - and yet justified in them all: the court of conscience, the Church of God, and the court of God's justice.
I have been justified three times: at the resurrection of Christ my substitute, when faith received His righteousness, and when good works justified my faith before the world.
I am the subject of a threefold sanctification: by the purpose of the Father, by the blood of the Son, and by the cleansing operations of the Holy Spirit.
I am a free man of three cities: the present world, the church below, and the Jerusalem which is above.
I have been an eye-sore to three parties: the devil, the world, and envious professors.
I have have occupied three peculiar seats: a dunghill by nature, among the princes in the Church by grace, and the throne of glory by special privilege.
I shall have three grand holidays: one when the Holy Spirit sets my soul at liberty, another when death sets me free from this mortal clay, and another when Jesus comes to be glorified in His saints.
I shall then have appeared in three different characters: a vile rebel against God, a supplicating sinner at mercy's footstool, and a justified son of God before His throne.
I shall have had three fathers: a human father, the devil, and Jehovah Himself.
I shall have received three laws: the law of nature, the moral law of God, and the law of the Spirit of life.
I shall have passed through three gates: the gate of hope, the gate into Christ's sheepfold, and the gate of death.
I shall have walked in three ways: the broad road of destruction, the highway of holiness, and Jesus Christ the only way to the Father.
I shall have conversed with three distinct classes of beings: carnal men, spiritual Christians, and the Lord Himself.
I shall have made three appearances: once all black - like the devil, then speckled - with nature and grace, and then all pure - whiter than the driven snow!
I shall have undergone three momentous changes: one at regeneration - when I passed from death unto life, one at death - when my soul shall be admitted into Heaven, and one at the resurrection - when my body shall be raised powerful, glorious and immortal.
I view three things as pre-eminently excellent: the fear of the Lord, a sound judgment, and Christ formed in the heart, as the hope of glory.
There are three things which I may covet: the best gifts, a contrite and humble spirit, and to be filled with all the fullness of God.
There are three things which are removed from me: the burden of sin, the wrath of God, and all condemnation.
There are three things which I do not know: what is before me, how God will provide for me, and what I shall be.
There are three things which I do know: that in my flesh dwells no good, that though I was once blind, now I see, and that I must needs die.
There are three things which are prepared for me: a fountain to cleanse me, a robe to adorn me, and a mansion to receive me.
~James Smith~
(continued with # 4)
Paul's Seven Wishes! # 3
Paul's Seven Wishes! # 3
Dear reader, have you ever experienced any such change?
Are you panting, praying, striving to be like Jesus?
Are you willing to be anything that Jesus was - that you may be like Him?
Are you willing willing to suffer even death - that you may be conformed to Him?
My soul, this is a very high attainment - aspire to it! Seek grace day by day at the throne of grace - that you may so love, so admire, so adore the Saviour - as to desire to be conformed to Him in life, in death, and forever!
Sixthly, "To be WITH Christ." (Philippians 1:23).
Paul dearly loved his work. He was greatly attached to the church - which needed his presence, gifts, and labors. He deeply sympathized with poor perishing sinners - who needed the gospel.
But such was his love to Jesus, that he felt himself in a great strait. "I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far!" He says nothing about place, or employment, the absence of sorrow, or the possession of joy; his heart was fixed on the person of Christ.
To be with Christ was his desire. To be with Christ anywhere - was enough. To be with Christ forever - was a sufficient Heaven.
Paul had no idea of the soul sleeping, or of an intermediate state where Christ was not. His idea was, "Absent from the body - present with the Lord!" Therefore he was willing to lay down his body, to put off the tabernacle - if by doing so, he may be with Christ. To be with Christ, to him was far better than life with all its comforts. To be with Christ, to him was far better than the world with all its privileges and pleasures. To be with Christ! This is the flower of bliss, the crown of glory, the perfection of happiness. To be with Christ! Paul could desire nothing beyond this!
My brother, can you sympathize with Paul here? Does not Jesus sometimes come to you? Are not His visits peculiarly sweet? Do you not, at such times - desire to be forever with Him? Do you not? What! a Christian and a stranger to the visits of Jesus - or, enjoy the visits of Jesus, and not desire to be with Him forever and altogether? How can one understand this? If one tastes of the grapes of Canaan - one wants to go and see the vineyards. If one obtains a pledge of the inheritance - one wants to go and take a full and eternal possession of it.
My soul, you do at times long to depart and be with Jesus! Oh, that this were more frequently my sweet experience! All saints feel this, and, blessed be God, that promise extends to it. "The desire of the righteous shall be granted!" Paul's desire is now realized; and if we desire as he did - ours, to will be realized by and bye!
Seventhly, "To REJOICE in the Day of Christ." Paul was constantly looking forward to Christ's second coming, and pointing believers to it. He expected great things then, therefore he longed for it, rejoiced in anticipation of it, and prepared to enter into all its glories and joys.
The Day of Christ is that day specially set apart for His glory, when He will openly wed His church, crush under His feet satan and all his foes, and appear in His own glory, and in His Father's glory too. Such a day has never yet been seen. Such another period, there never will be.
Paul's desire was to meet all his converts then, and present them to his glorious Master. "For what," said he, "is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when He comes? Is it not you?" "That you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life - in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing."
Jesus is coming to be glorified in His saints, and to be admired in all those who believe; and Paul desired to see all his children there, as mirrors to reflect the glory of Jesus, as monuments on which will be inscribed his triumphs. This would add to his joy. This would open sources of unutterable pleasure. This would produce exquisite delight. Happy Paul, the day of Christ will be a triumphant day for you! The coming of Jesus will be a glorious event to you!
Reader, what will it be to you? Do you expect the fulfillment of that sweet passage then - "When Christ, who is our life, shall appear - then you shall also appear with Him in glory!"
~James Smith~
(continued with # 4)
Dear reader, have you ever experienced any such change?
Are you panting, praying, striving to be like Jesus?
Are you willing to be anything that Jesus was - that you may be like Him?
Are you willing willing to suffer even death - that you may be conformed to Him?
My soul, this is a very high attainment - aspire to it! Seek grace day by day at the throne of grace - that you may so love, so admire, so adore the Saviour - as to desire to be conformed to Him in life, in death, and forever!
Sixthly, "To be WITH Christ." (Philippians 1:23).
Paul dearly loved his work. He was greatly attached to the church - which needed his presence, gifts, and labors. He deeply sympathized with poor perishing sinners - who needed the gospel.
But such was his love to Jesus, that he felt himself in a great strait. "I am torn between the two: I desire to depart and be with Christ, which is better by far!" He says nothing about place, or employment, the absence of sorrow, or the possession of joy; his heart was fixed on the person of Christ.
To be with Christ was his desire. To be with Christ anywhere - was enough. To be with Christ forever - was a sufficient Heaven.
Paul had no idea of the soul sleeping, or of an intermediate state where Christ was not. His idea was, "Absent from the body - present with the Lord!" Therefore he was willing to lay down his body, to put off the tabernacle - if by doing so, he may be with Christ. To be with Christ, to him was far better than life with all its comforts. To be with Christ, to him was far better than the world with all its privileges and pleasures. To be with Christ! This is the flower of bliss, the crown of glory, the perfection of happiness. To be with Christ! Paul could desire nothing beyond this!
My brother, can you sympathize with Paul here? Does not Jesus sometimes come to you? Are not His visits peculiarly sweet? Do you not, at such times - desire to be forever with Him? Do you not? What! a Christian and a stranger to the visits of Jesus - or, enjoy the visits of Jesus, and not desire to be with Him forever and altogether? How can one understand this? If one tastes of the grapes of Canaan - one wants to go and see the vineyards. If one obtains a pledge of the inheritance - one wants to go and take a full and eternal possession of it.
My soul, you do at times long to depart and be with Jesus! Oh, that this were more frequently my sweet experience! All saints feel this, and, blessed be God, that promise extends to it. "The desire of the righteous shall be granted!" Paul's desire is now realized; and if we desire as he did - ours, to will be realized by and bye!
Seventhly, "To REJOICE in the Day of Christ." Paul was constantly looking forward to Christ's second coming, and pointing believers to it. He expected great things then, therefore he longed for it, rejoiced in anticipation of it, and prepared to enter into all its glories and joys.
The Day of Christ is that day specially set apart for His glory, when He will openly wed His church, crush under His feet satan and all his foes, and appear in His own glory, and in His Father's glory too. Such a day has never yet been seen. Such another period, there never will be.
Paul's desire was to meet all his converts then, and present them to his glorious Master. "For what," said he, "is our hope, our joy, or the crown in which we will glory in the presence of our Lord Jesus when He comes? Is it not you?" "That you may become blameless and pure, children of God without fault in a crooked and depraved generation, in which you shine like stars in the universe as you hold out the word of life - in order that I may boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor for nothing."
Jesus is coming to be glorified in His saints, and to be admired in all those who believe; and Paul desired to see all his children there, as mirrors to reflect the glory of Jesus, as monuments on which will be inscribed his triumphs. This would add to his joy. This would open sources of unutterable pleasure. This would produce exquisite delight. Happy Paul, the day of Christ will be a triumphant day for you! The coming of Jesus will be a glorious event to you!
Reader, what will it be to you? Do you expect the fulfillment of that sweet passage then - "When Christ, who is our life, shall appear - then you shall also appear with Him in glory!"
~James Smith~
(continued with # 4)
Saturday, October 12, 2019
A Curious Meditation # 2
A Curious Meditation # 2
There are three things which must be renounced by me: preconceived opinions, worldly wisdom, and natural religion.
There are three things which must be held fast by me: the Word of truth, my confidence in God, and my profession of the gospel.
There are three things which are especially required of me: to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with my God.
There are three things which are promised to me: tribulation in the world, sufficient strength in Jesus, and eternal life at the end of my course.
There are three things which the Lord observes and approves in me: the work of faith, the labor of love, and the patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
There is a threefold deliverance which is effected for me: from the dominion of sin, from the present evil world, and from my deserved doom.
There are three things which I would trample under foot: unfounded prejudice, vain distinctions, and self-righteousness.
There are three things which I would aim at daily: to exalt Christ, to glorify God, and to being sinners to repentance.
There are three things which are still sure to me: a rough road, changing experiences, and safety at last.
There are three things which are behind me: a wicked life, a broken law, and the pit of destruction.
There are three things which are before me: death, perfect conformity to Jesus, and eternal glory.
There are three things which are on my right hand: satan to resist me, the Lord Jesus to save me, and my own heart set on things above.
There are three things which are on my left hand: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life.
There are three things which I greatly admire: the Saviour's person, the promises of God, and the instruments He employs in carrying on His work.
There are three things which much please me: the doctrines of the gospel, the witness of the Spirit, and the light of God's countenance.
There are three things which I delight in: that Jehovah is my God, the comfort He imparts to me, and the riches of glory which are set before me.
There are three things which I hate: the cant of hypocrites, the flattery of friends, and the pride of professors.
There are three things which are good for me: to draw near to God, to be afflicted, and to sing praises unto the Lord.
There are three things which often disgust me: satan's temptations, the powerful working of unbelief, and the conduct of religious professors.
There are three things which are prescribed to me: to believe in God, to love the saints, and to observe the Lord's ordinances.
There are three things which are too often neglected by me: self-examination, diligent reading of the Bible, and secret prayer.
There are three things which are too deep for me to fully know: the depravity of my heart, the devices of satan, and the manner of the Spirit's working.
There are three things which I wish to leave with the Lord: to choose my lot in life, to fight my battles, and to supply all my needs.
There are three things which I do not consider worth having: a form of godliness, with the power, a name to live, while dead, and the commendation of the enemies of Christ.
There are three things in which I glory: the Cross of Christ, my saving knowledge of God, and the everlasting gospel.
~James Smith~
(continued with # 3)
There are three things which must be renounced by me: preconceived opinions, worldly wisdom, and natural religion.
There are three things which must be held fast by me: the Word of truth, my confidence in God, and my profession of the gospel.
There are three things which are especially required of me: to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with my God.
There are three things which are promised to me: tribulation in the world, sufficient strength in Jesus, and eternal life at the end of my course.
There are three things which the Lord observes and approves in me: the work of faith, the labor of love, and the patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.
There is a threefold deliverance which is effected for me: from the dominion of sin, from the present evil world, and from my deserved doom.
There are three things which I would trample under foot: unfounded prejudice, vain distinctions, and self-righteousness.
There are three things which I would aim at daily: to exalt Christ, to glorify God, and to being sinners to repentance.
There are three things which are still sure to me: a rough road, changing experiences, and safety at last.
There are three things which are behind me: a wicked life, a broken law, and the pit of destruction.
There are three things which are before me: death, perfect conformity to Jesus, and eternal glory.
There are three things which are on my right hand: satan to resist me, the Lord Jesus to save me, and my own heart set on things above.
There are three things which are on my left hand: the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eye, and the pride of life.
There are three things which I greatly admire: the Saviour's person, the promises of God, and the instruments He employs in carrying on His work.
There are three things which much please me: the doctrines of the gospel, the witness of the Spirit, and the light of God's countenance.
There are three things which I delight in: that Jehovah is my God, the comfort He imparts to me, and the riches of glory which are set before me.
There are three things which I hate: the cant of hypocrites, the flattery of friends, and the pride of professors.
There are three things which are good for me: to draw near to God, to be afflicted, and to sing praises unto the Lord.
There are three things which often disgust me: satan's temptations, the powerful working of unbelief, and the conduct of religious professors.
There are three things which are prescribed to me: to believe in God, to love the saints, and to observe the Lord's ordinances.
There are three things which are too often neglected by me: self-examination, diligent reading of the Bible, and secret prayer.
There are three things which are too deep for me to fully know: the depravity of my heart, the devices of satan, and the manner of the Spirit's working.
There are three things which I wish to leave with the Lord: to choose my lot in life, to fight my battles, and to supply all my needs.
There are three things which I do not consider worth having: a form of godliness, with the power, a name to live, while dead, and the commendation of the enemies of Christ.
There are three things in which I glory: the Cross of Christ, my saving knowledge of God, and the everlasting gospel.
~James Smith~
(continued with # 3)
Paul's Seven Wishes # 2
Paul's Seven Wishes # 2
Paul desired to exhibit and exalt Christ! If he wrote - he wrote of Christ. If he spoke - he spoke of Christ. If he suffered - he suffered for Christ. If he sorrowed - it was because professors dishonored Christ.
Christ was to him dearer than the apple of his eye - and more precious than all things in earth or Heaven! He would live - if he could honor Jesus; or he would die for Him - if that would honor Him more. He felt his obligation. He was inflamed with his love. He was a sacrifice on his altar. He was a vessel for His honor. He would go anywhere, he would do anything - if he might but honor Christ. Heartily he would, "Let the name of Paul perish, if the name of Christ can be magnified thereby!"
To him Christ was, in fact, all and all. He died for Christ; the honor of Christ was the end for which he laid down his life.
My brother, how is it with you?
Does your heart cry, "Oh, that I could honor Christ!" Does your life make this impression on others, "That man aims to honor Christ!"
Is it your daily cry and prayer, "Let Christ be magnified in me, by me, and through me - in life, in death, in time, and forever!"
O my soul, let it be my constant desire and prayer - that Jesus, my Jesus, may be magnified by me!"
Fourthly, "To be FOUND in Christ." (Philippians 3:9). Paul wished to be IN Christ...as Noah was in the ark, as the man-slayer was in his refuge, as the jewel is in the cabinet, and as Christ is in God.
The closest possible union, the nearest and dearest communion - was desired by him.
If he is accepted by God - then he desires to be accepted in the name of Jesus. If he is justified - then he wishes it to be in the righteousness of Jesus If he is sanctified - then he would be so by the Spirit of Jesus.
He would have Paul to be nothing - and Jesus to be all.
In Christ, he knew he would be safe. In Christ, he felt he would be happy. In Christ, he was persuaded he would be satisfied. Christ in Paul was his life. Paul in Christ was his honor.
Friend, are you IN Christ? Is it your ambition to be found in Christ? If death finds you - will it find you in Christ? If justice finds you - will it find you in Christ? If judgment finds you - will it find you in Christ? In Christ - you will find God as a Father. In Christ - you will meet all the saints as your brethren. In Christ - you will find the angels ministering unto you. In Christ - death has no sting. In Christ - the grave has no terrors. In Christ - the law has no claims upon you. In Christ - there are no threatenings in God's Word against you. In Christ - all the promises are confirmed to you.
How glorious to be in Christ! My soul, let this be your daily prayer, "That I may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law - but that which is through faith in Christ - the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith."
Fifthly, "To be CONFORMED to Christ." (Phil. 3:10). It was not enough to know Christ, to win Christ, to magnify Christ, or to be in Christ; Paul wishes to be LIKE Christ! He would breathe his spirit, exhibit His temper, copy His example, and be just like Christ!
He desired to be like Christ in poverty, like Christ in suffering, like Christ in death itself.
Paul desired to be EXACTLY like Jesus! Meek as Jesus was meek. Patient as Jesus was patient. Loving as Jesus was loving. Useful as Jesus was useful. In every point resembling Him!
What admiration of Christ is here! What love to Christ! What self-renunciation! What power of grace!
What a wonderful transformation! How unlike Saul of Tarsus, the Pharisee of the Pharisees, the persecutor of the church, the blasphemer of the Nazarene! What could be more unlike?
Once he saw no beauty in Christ - now he sees nothing but beauty. Once he could not bear the mention of His name - now he never seems happy, but when pronouncing it. Once he was exceeding mad against Him and His people - now his heartfelt abiding cry is, "I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in His sufferings - becoming like Him in His death!"
~James Smith~
(continued with # 3)
Paul desired to exhibit and exalt Christ! If he wrote - he wrote of Christ. If he spoke - he spoke of Christ. If he suffered - he suffered for Christ. If he sorrowed - it was because professors dishonored Christ.
Christ was to him dearer than the apple of his eye - and more precious than all things in earth or Heaven! He would live - if he could honor Jesus; or he would die for Him - if that would honor Him more. He felt his obligation. He was inflamed with his love. He was a sacrifice on his altar. He was a vessel for His honor. He would go anywhere, he would do anything - if he might but honor Christ. Heartily he would, "Let the name of Paul perish, if the name of Christ can be magnified thereby!"
To him Christ was, in fact, all and all. He died for Christ; the honor of Christ was the end for which he laid down his life.
My brother, how is it with you?
Does your heart cry, "Oh, that I could honor Christ!" Does your life make this impression on others, "That man aims to honor Christ!"
Is it your daily cry and prayer, "Let Christ be magnified in me, by me, and through me - in life, in death, in time, and forever!"
O my soul, let it be my constant desire and prayer - that Jesus, my Jesus, may be magnified by me!"
Fourthly, "To be FOUND in Christ." (Philippians 3:9). Paul wished to be IN Christ...as Noah was in the ark, as the man-slayer was in his refuge, as the jewel is in the cabinet, and as Christ is in God.
The closest possible union, the nearest and dearest communion - was desired by him.
If he is accepted by God - then he desires to be accepted in the name of Jesus. If he is justified - then he wishes it to be in the righteousness of Jesus If he is sanctified - then he would be so by the Spirit of Jesus.
He would have Paul to be nothing - and Jesus to be all.
In Christ, he knew he would be safe. In Christ, he felt he would be happy. In Christ, he was persuaded he would be satisfied. Christ in Paul was his life. Paul in Christ was his honor.
Friend, are you IN Christ? Is it your ambition to be found in Christ? If death finds you - will it find you in Christ? If justice finds you - will it find you in Christ? If judgment finds you - will it find you in Christ? In Christ - you will find God as a Father. In Christ - you will meet all the saints as your brethren. In Christ - you will find the angels ministering unto you. In Christ - death has no sting. In Christ - the grave has no terrors. In Christ - the law has no claims upon you. In Christ - there are no threatenings in God's Word against you. In Christ - all the promises are confirmed to you.
How glorious to be in Christ! My soul, let this be your daily prayer, "That I may be found in Him, not having a righteousness of my own that comes from the law - but that which is through faith in Christ - the righteousness that comes from God and is by faith."
Fifthly, "To be CONFORMED to Christ." (Phil. 3:10). It was not enough to know Christ, to win Christ, to magnify Christ, or to be in Christ; Paul wishes to be LIKE Christ! He would breathe his spirit, exhibit His temper, copy His example, and be just like Christ!
He desired to be like Christ in poverty, like Christ in suffering, like Christ in death itself.
Paul desired to be EXACTLY like Jesus! Meek as Jesus was meek. Patient as Jesus was patient. Loving as Jesus was loving. Useful as Jesus was useful. In every point resembling Him!
What admiration of Christ is here! What love to Christ! What self-renunciation! What power of grace!
What a wonderful transformation! How unlike Saul of Tarsus, the Pharisee of the Pharisees, the persecutor of the church, the blasphemer of the Nazarene! What could be more unlike?
Once he saw no beauty in Christ - now he sees nothing but beauty. Once he could not bear the mention of His name - now he never seems happy, but when pronouncing it. Once he was exceeding mad against Him and His people - now his heartfelt abiding cry is, "I want to know Christ and the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of sharing in His sufferings - becoming like Him in His death!"
~James Smith~
(continued with # 3)
Saturday, October 5, 2019
A Curious Meditation # 1
A Curious Meditation # 1
As I was walking out for exercise in the fields one morning, having been pleading with God to give me some profitable subject for meditation - I suddenly fell into this train of thought, which afterwards wrote down; and, as it may interest and profit some, it is here inserted.
There are three things which I especially desire: more communion with God, more likeness to the Lord Jesus, and more usefulness to His church.
There are three things which I deprecate: the withering of my gifts, the decay of my graces, and to become useless in the Lord's vineyard.
There are three things which I dread: that I should become a proud professor, that I should become a lukewarm Christian, and that I should fall into the hands of man.
There are three things which I sometimes wish for (but which God will never grant me on earth): to be totally free of sin, to be delivered from a daily cross, and to be always happy.
There are three things which I feel sure of: hatred by the world, opposition by hypocrites, and love by spiritual believers.
There are three foes which always oppose me: the world, the flesh, and the devil.
There are three friends which will always stand by me: a peaceful conscience, the bride of Jesus, and the Lamb of God.
There are three deaths which have been experienced by me: a death in sin, a death to sin, a death to the law of God.
There are three lives which shall be lived by me: a temporal life, a spiritual life, and an eternal life.
There are three things which burden me: a body of sin and death, the opposition I meet with, and my own ingratitude.
There are three things which support me: the Father's love, the Son's redemption, and the Spirit's work.
There are three things which are a sore trial to me: an irritable temper, a flippant tongue, and self-love.
There are three things which bring strong consolation to me: the open fountain of Christ's blood, the promises of God, and the Saviour's free invitation.
There are three things which are especially dear to me: the Word of God, the throne of grace, and the ordinances of the Lord's house.
There are three things lacking in me: perfect penitence, entire resignation, and fervent love.
There are three books which are very useful to me: the book of nature, the book of Holy Scriptures, and the book of my own experience.
There are three teachers which are employed to instruct me: the Holy Spirit, a special providence, and the rod of God.
There are three things which are manifested in me: the nature of sin, the power of grace, and the faithfulness of God.
There are three things which would be greatly useful to me: more humility, spiritual wisdom, and enlightened zeal.
There are three things which characterize me: weakness, poverty, and sinfulness.
Yet, there are three things which may be seen in me: Christ's strength, God's grace, and the Spirit's holiness.
There are three things which are feared by me: a stiff neck, a hard heart, and a presumptuous spirit.
There are three things which are matter of joy to me: the conversion of sinners, that my name is written in heaven, and the glory to be given me at the appearing of Jesus Christ.
~James Smith~
(continued with # 2)
As I was walking out for exercise in the fields one morning, having been pleading with God to give me some profitable subject for meditation - I suddenly fell into this train of thought, which afterwards wrote down; and, as it may interest and profit some, it is here inserted.
There are three things which I especially desire: more communion with God, more likeness to the Lord Jesus, and more usefulness to His church.
There are three things which I deprecate: the withering of my gifts, the decay of my graces, and to become useless in the Lord's vineyard.
There are three things which I dread: that I should become a proud professor, that I should become a lukewarm Christian, and that I should fall into the hands of man.
There are three things which I sometimes wish for (but which God will never grant me on earth): to be totally free of sin, to be delivered from a daily cross, and to be always happy.
There are three things which I feel sure of: hatred by the world, opposition by hypocrites, and love by spiritual believers.
There are three foes which always oppose me: the world, the flesh, and the devil.
There are three friends which will always stand by me: a peaceful conscience, the bride of Jesus, and the Lamb of God.
There are three deaths which have been experienced by me: a death in sin, a death to sin, a death to the law of God.
There are three lives which shall be lived by me: a temporal life, a spiritual life, and an eternal life.
There are three things which burden me: a body of sin and death, the opposition I meet with, and my own ingratitude.
There are three things which support me: the Father's love, the Son's redemption, and the Spirit's work.
There are three things which are a sore trial to me: an irritable temper, a flippant tongue, and self-love.
There are three things which bring strong consolation to me: the open fountain of Christ's blood, the promises of God, and the Saviour's free invitation.
There are three things which are especially dear to me: the Word of God, the throne of grace, and the ordinances of the Lord's house.
There are three things lacking in me: perfect penitence, entire resignation, and fervent love.
There are three books which are very useful to me: the book of nature, the book of Holy Scriptures, and the book of my own experience.
There are three teachers which are employed to instruct me: the Holy Spirit, a special providence, and the rod of God.
There are three things which are manifested in me: the nature of sin, the power of grace, and the faithfulness of God.
There are three things which would be greatly useful to me: more humility, spiritual wisdom, and enlightened zeal.
There are three things which characterize me: weakness, poverty, and sinfulness.
Yet, there are three things which may be seen in me: Christ's strength, God's grace, and the Spirit's holiness.
There are three things which are feared by me: a stiff neck, a hard heart, and a presumptuous spirit.
There are three things which are matter of joy to me: the conversion of sinners, that my name is written in heaven, and the glory to be given me at the appearing of Jesus Christ.
~James Smith~
(continued with # 2)
Paul's Seven Wishes! # 1
Paul's Seven Wishes # 1
Wishing is generally fruitless, and sometimes sinful. Resignation is generally better than wishing, and acquiescence in God's will, more so still. But it is natural to desire what we esteem to be good - and grace only regulates and sanctifies this exercise of nature. Desire is often the effect of knowledge - and it is the very soul of prayer. Whatever we have, there is much that we need, and, consequently, much that we must desire.
Paul desired seven things especially, and they all referred to Christ, and they are all named in his epistle to the Philippians, and I propose to glance at them. Let us compare our desires with his as we go on, and may the Holy Spirit bless our brief meditation on the subject.
First, he says, "that I may know Him!" (Phil. 3:10). Christ had appeared to Paul, he was revealed in him, and was constantly preached by him. Christ was the object of his trust, the subject of his ministry, and the joy of his heart.
But he knew that there was much in Christ with which he was unacquainted. He knew but in part. He desired, therefore, to know more of the glory of His person, the riches of His grace, the magnificence of His work, the excellency of His nature, the majesty of His kingdom!
Everything in Christ interested Paul. Creation was good - but to him, grace was better; but Christ was best of all. He was never wearied of Christ. He went on with his work, he went on his way, with the desire constantly rising in his heart, "That I may know Him!"
Beloved, how is it with you? Do you sympathize with Paul in this desire of his heart? Is it your daily wish, ardent desire, and constant aim - to know more of Jesus?
Throughout eternity we shall be learning Christ!
He is the lesson placed before us in the church on earth; and He is the lesson placed before the church in Heaven.
Time is given us to learn Christ - and, blessed be God, eternity will be given to us to learn Christ also.
Nothing endears eternity to me like this - it will be spent in learning, enjoying, and honoring Christ!
Secondly, he says, "That I may WIN Christ!" (Phil. 3:8). He was not merely satisfied to know Christ, as the property of someone else; he wanted Christ as his own! He was not only willing to receive Christ as a free gift - but he would win Christ as a prize.
Was Christ to be run for - then he would run. Was Christ to be wrestled for - then he would wrestle. Were there any means by which Christ could be obtained, however painful, however costly, however difficult - then Paul would use them!
Did he believe? It was that he might win Christ. Did he pray? It was that he might win Christ. Did he preach? It was that he might win Christ. Did he crucify the old man, mortify the flesh, beat his body and make it his slave? It was that he might win Christ.
Did he suffer the loss of all things, and count them but dung and dross? It was that he might win Christ. Did he subject himself to stripes, imprisonment, hunger, cold, nakedness, and a martyr's death? It was that he might win Christ. To possess Christ was his one object, his ruling desire!
Reader, is it your main object and desire? Are you prepared to part with all for Christ? Would you take Christ - in exchange for ease, reputation, wealth, labors, sufferings, yes, even death itself? Paul was; and if you are not, his estimates of Christ and yours cannot be the same. My soul, I charge you - let this be your object, let this be your aim, always and everywhere: to "win" Christ!"
Thirdly, "to MAGNIFY Christ!" Hence he says, "I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always, Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain!" (Phil. 1:20, 21).
~James Smith~
(continued with # 2)
Wishing is generally fruitless, and sometimes sinful. Resignation is generally better than wishing, and acquiescence in God's will, more so still. But it is natural to desire what we esteem to be good - and grace only regulates and sanctifies this exercise of nature. Desire is often the effect of knowledge - and it is the very soul of prayer. Whatever we have, there is much that we need, and, consequently, much that we must desire.
Paul desired seven things especially, and they all referred to Christ, and they are all named in his epistle to the Philippians, and I propose to glance at them. Let us compare our desires with his as we go on, and may the Holy Spirit bless our brief meditation on the subject.
First, he says, "that I may know Him!" (Phil. 3:10). Christ had appeared to Paul, he was revealed in him, and was constantly preached by him. Christ was the object of his trust, the subject of his ministry, and the joy of his heart.
But he knew that there was much in Christ with which he was unacquainted. He knew but in part. He desired, therefore, to know more of the glory of His person, the riches of His grace, the magnificence of His work, the excellency of His nature, the majesty of His kingdom!
Everything in Christ interested Paul. Creation was good - but to him, grace was better; but Christ was best of all. He was never wearied of Christ. He went on with his work, he went on his way, with the desire constantly rising in his heart, "That I may know Him!"
Beloved, how is it with you? Do you sympathize with Paul in this desire of his heart? Is it your daily wish, ardent desire, and constant aim - to know more of Jesus?
Throughout eternity we shall be learning Christ!
He is the lesson placed before us in the church on earth; and He is the lesson placed before the church in Heaven.
Time is given us to learn Christ - and, blessed be God, eternity will be given to us to learn Christ also.
Nothing endears eternity to me like this - it will be spent in learning, enjoying, and honoring Christ!
Secondly, he says, "That I may WIN Christ!" (Phil. 3:8). He was not merely satisfied to know Christ, as the property of someone else; he wanted Christ as his own! He was not only willing to receive Christ as a free gift - but he would win Christ as a prize.
Was Christ to be run for - then he would run. Was Christ to be wrestled for - then he would wrestle. Were there any means by which Christ could be obtained, however painful, however costly, however difficult - then Paul would use them!
Did he believe? It was that he might win Christ. Did he pray? It was that he might win Christ. Did he preach? It was that he might win Christ. Did he crucify the old man, mortify the flesh, beat his body and make it his slave? It was that he might win Christ.
Did he suffer the loss of all things, and count them but dung and dross? It was that he might win Christ. Did he subject himself to stripes, imprisonment, hunger, cold, nakedness, and a martyr's death? It was that he might win Christ. To possess Christ was his one object, his ruling desire!
Reader, is it your main object and desire? Are you prepared to part with all for Christ? Would you take Christ - in exchange for ease, reputation, wealth, labors, sufferings, yes, even death itself? Paul was; and if you are not, his estimates of Christ and yours cannot be the same. My soul, I charge you - let this be your object, let this be your aim, always and everywhere: to "win" Christ!"
Thirdly, "to MAGNIFY Christ!" Hence he says, "I eagerly expect and hope that I will in no way be ashamed, but will have sufficient courage so that now as always, Christ will be magnified in my body, whether by life or by death. For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain!" (Phil. 1:20, 21).
~James Smith~
(continued with # 2)
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