Trials # 2
There are trials that come to us as the result of the acts or attitudes of others. How few are man's kindnesses to his fellow man! How great his inhumanity! How much of the human distress is needless and comes only by the selfish or evil acts of others!
Christ said that we should not marvel if the world hates us. Neither should we marvel if it should act out its hatred in malicious persecution. Our Lord has told us that offenses must come. To be a Christian, means to be a target for the world's hatred. We can count persecution as a part of our Christian heritage. Sometimes we shall have cruel mockings and have our names cast out as evil. We cannot endure these things without some sense of pain. How much we suffer under them, will depend on how we meet them. If we praise God and go resolutely on our way - then strength will be given us, and we shall overcome, and instead of hindering us, persecution will bring us rich treasures of grace and blessing.
Sometimes we may be tried over what others do when they have no thought or intention of causing us a trial, and perhaps are wholly ignorant that they are causing us to be tried. Very often people allow themselves to be tried when things need not be a trial - if they will hold the right attitude toward the supposed offender. We can let ourselves be tried over trifles if we will; when if we would act as a real man or woman, we could pass over them quite easily and do it joyously and not allow them to amount to anything.
The problem with so many, is that they are like petulant children, who are hurt or displeased at almost anything. If someone has really done something on purpose to hurt you - you should not give him the satisfaction of knowing that it hurt. Keep the hurt out of sight. Hide it away and over come it, and, if possible, let it be known to none but God. Bear with meekness, whatever trial happens to you. Pray for your persecutors. That is the surest way to keep God in your own heart. "Father, forgive them," is the plea that takes the sting out of persecution.
Some trials come directly from satan. For some reason we are left liable to his attacks. He attacked Job, destroyed his children, his possessions, and his health. God could shut him clear away from the world just as He has shut him away from Heaven, if He choose. But for some purpose He sees fit to let us be exposed to his attacks here. Many people feel like a little boy who once said: "Mother, I wish God would kill the devil. Why doesn't He do it? I would, if I were big enough."
satan is limited in his work against us, so that he can never go beyond God's will for us, so long as we leave ourselves in God's hands and rely upon Him for the needed help. God does see fit sometimes to let him try us severely - but there never be any cause for despair. God will not allow us to be tempted more than we are able to bear. If satan makes the temptation - God makes the way out. Sometimes He does not let us see the way out, even when He has prepared it, and we have to resist and endure the temptation until He sees that it has gone far enough. Then He shows us the way out. Sometimes He will take us and lift us clear out of it by His own hand. At other times He will put our adversary to flight. Our part is to endure and trust - God's part is to make the way of escape. We must endure patiently until our deliverance comes.
Sometimes God Himself tries or proves us. "I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried" (Zech. 13:9). The purpose of God's trying us, is often that we may know ourselves. If we become self-sufficient, or go to rejoicing in our own works - then He will likely send upon us or permit to come upon us, something that will bring us to know our insufficiency and need of help from Him. Danger is often the only thing that can help us to know our own weakness; so God often lets a danger come in order to bring us to our senses. We should not let such a thing discourage us, but get the lesson that our strength is from Him, and that our best efforts, if merely of ourselves, can avail little. He who trusts in God, has strength for his needs.
God sometimes tries us that we may know Him better. He wants us to know just how dearly He loves us, and how earnest is His care for us, and how faithful He is to us; and so He lets every hope and resource fail us, and distress fall upon us. When everything fails, and w turn to Him - how real is His help! How sweet is His comfort! If, however, when we find ourselves in such a situation, we despair and give up - then we lose the blessedness that He was preparing us for. We grieve His loving heart, and cheat ourselves.
Hold fast and wait for Him to work out His purpose. He afflicts, only to heal. He grieves, only to turn the grief to rejoicing, and to give greater rejoicing than could come through any other means.
Our trials are the root which our blessings grow. These roots may be bitter - but the fruit is sure to be sweet, if we patiently wait for its maturing. Too many want the fruits of blessings - bur are not willing to have the trial. Many choice fruits grow on thorny trees, and he who will gather the fruit may expect to be pricked now and then by the thorns.
~Charles Naylor~
(continued with # 3)
Saturday, July 13, 2019
Vile! # 2
Vile! # 2
True repentance changes a man's opinion of himself. Is, then, a Christian today warranted in saying "Behold, I am vile"? Not as faith views himself united to the One who is "altogether lovely"; but as faith discerns, in the light of the Word, what he is by nature, what he is in and of himself, he may. Not that he is to hypocritically adopt such language in order to gain the reputation of great humility; nay, such an utterance is only to be found upon our lips as it is the feeling expression of our hearts: particularly is it to be owned before God, when we come to Him in contrition and in confession. Yet is it also to be acknowledged before the saints, even as the Apostle Paul cried publicly, "O wretched man that I am!" (Romans 7:24).
It is part of our testimony to own (before those who fear the Lord) what God has revealed to us. "Behold I am vile!" Such is the candid and sorrowful confession of the writer.
1. I am vile in my imaginations. O what scum rises to the surface when lusts boil within me. What filthy pictures are visioned in "the chambers of my imagery" (Ezek. 8:12). What unlawful desires run riot within. Yes, even when engaged in meditating upon the holy things of God, the mind wanders and the fancy becomes engaged with what is foul and vile. How often does the writer have to acknowledge before God that "from the sole of the foot even unto the head there is no soundness" in him, but "wounds, and bruises, and putrefying sores" (Isaiah 1:6). Nightly does he avail himself of that Fountain which has opened "for sin and for uncleanness" (Zech. 13:1).
2. I am vile in my self-will. How fretful am I when God blows upon my plans and thwarts my desires. What surgings of rebellion within my wicked bosom, when God's providences displease. Instead of lying placidly as clay in the Potter's hand, how often do I act like the unruly colt, which rears and kicks, refusing to be held in with bit and bridle, determined to have my own way. Alas, alas, how very little have I learned of Him who was "meek and lowly in heart." Instead of "the flesh" in me being purified, it has putrefied; instead of its resistance to the spirit weakening, it appears to be stronger each year. O that I had the wings of a dove, that I could fly away from myself!
3. I am vile in my religious pretenses. How often I am anxious to make "a fair show in the flesh" and be thought highly of by others. What hypocrisies have I been guilty of in seeking to gain a reputation for spirituality. How frequently have I conveyed false impressions to others, making them suppose it was far otherwise within me, than was actually the case. What pride and self-righteousness have swayed me. And of what insincerity have I, at times, been guilty of in the pulpit: praying to the ears of the congregation instead of to God, pretending to have liberty when my own spirit was bound, speaking of those things which I had not felt and handled for myself. Much, very much cause has the writer to take the leper's place, cover his lips, and cry "Unclean, unclean!"
4. I am vile in my unbelief. How often am I still filled with doubts and misgivings. How often do I lean unto my own understanding instead of upon the Lord. How often do I fail to expect from God (Mark 11:24) the things for which I ask Him. When the hour of testing comes, only too frequently are past deliverances forgotten. When troubles assail, instead of looking off unto the things unseen, I am occupied with the difficulties before me. Instead of remembering that with God all things are possible, I am ready to say, "Can God furnish a table in the wilderness?" (Psalm 78:19). True it is not always thus, for the Holy Spirit graciously keeps alive the faith which He has placed within; but when He ceases to work, and a trial is faced, how often did I give my Master occasion to say, "How is it that you have no faith?" (Mark 4:40).
Reader, how closely does your experience correspond with the above? Is it true that, "As in water face answer to face, so the heart of man to man" (Proverbs 27:19)? Have we been describing some of the symptoms of your diseased heart? Have you ever owned before God, "Behold I am vile"? Do you bear witness to the humbling fact before your brethren and sisters in Christ? It is comparatively easy to utter such words, but do you feel them? Does the realization of this truth make you "blush" (Ezra 9:6) and groan in secret? Have you such a personal and painful sense of your vileness that, often, you feel thoroughly unfit to draw unto a holy God?
If so:
1. You have abundant cause to be thankful to God, that His Holy Spirit has shown you something of your wretched self, that He has not kept you in ignorance of your woeful state, that He has not left you in that gross spiritual darkness that enshrouds millions of professing Christians.
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 3)
True repentance changes a man's opinion of himself. Is, then, a Christian today warranted in saying "Behold, I am vile"? Not as faith views himself united to the One who is "altogether lovely"; but as faith discerns, in the light of the Word, what he is by nature, what he is in and of himself, he may. Not that he is to hypocritically adopt such language in order to gain the reputation of great humility; nay, such an utterance is only to be found upon our lips as it is the feeling expression of our hearts: particularly is it to be owned before God, when we come to Him in contrition and in confession. Yet is it also to be acknowledged before the saints, even as the Apostle Paul cried publicly, "O wretched man that I am!" (Romans 7:24).
It is part of our testimony to own (before those who fear the Lord) what God has revealed to us. "Behold I am vile!" Such is the candid and sorrowful confession of the writer.
1. I am vile in my imaginations. O what scum rises to the surface when lusts boil within me. What filthy pictures are visioned in "the chambers of my imagery" (Ezek. 8:12). What unlawful desires run riot within. Yes, even when engaged in meditating upon the holy things of God, the mind wanders and the fancy becomes engaged with what is foul and vile. How often does the writer have to acknowledge before God that "from the sole of the foot even unto the head there is no soundness" in him, but "wounds, and bruises, and putrefying sores" (Isaiah 1:6). Nightly does he avail himself of that Fountain which has opened "for sin and for uncleanness" (Zech. 13:1).
2. I am vile in my self-will. How fretful am I when God blows upon my plans and thwarts my desires. What surgings of rebellion within my wicked bosom, when God's providences displease. Instead of lying placidly as clay in the Potter's hand, how often do I act like the unruly colt, which rears and kicks, refusing to be held in with bit and bridle, determined to have my own way. Alas, alas, how very little have I learned of Him who was "meek and lowly in heart." Instead of "the flesh" in me being purified, it has putrefied; instead of its resistance to the spirit weakening, it appears to be stronger each year. O that I had the wings of a dove, that I could fly away from myself!
3. I am vile in my religious pretenses. How often I am anxious to make "a fair show in the flesh" and be thought highly of by others. What hypocrisies have I been guilty of in seeking to gain a reputation for spirituality. How frequently have I conveyed false impressions to others, making them suppose it was far otherwise within me, than was actually the case. What pride and self-righteousness have swayed me. And of what insincerity have I, at times, been guilty of in the pulpit: praying to the ears of the congregation instead of to God, pretending to have liberty when my own spirit was bound, speaking of those things which I had not felt and handled for myself. Much, very much cause has the writer to take the leper's place, cover his lips, and cry "Unclean, unclean!"
4. I am vile in my unbelief. How often am I still filled with doubts and misgivings. How often do I lean unto my own understanding instead of upon the Lord. How often do I fail to expect from God (Mark 11:24) the things for which I ask Him. When the hour of testing comes, only too frequently are past deliverances forgotten. When troubles assail, instead of looking off unto the things unseen, I am occupied with the difficulties before me. Instead of remembering that with God all things are possible, I am ready to say, "Can God furnish a table in the wilderness?" (Psalm 78:19). True it is not always thus, for the Holy Spirit graciously keeps alive the faith which He has placed within; but when He ceases to work, and a trial is faced, how often did I give my Master occasion to say, "How is it that you have no faith?" (Mark 4:40).
Reader, how closely does your experience correspond with the above? Is it true that, "As in water face answer to face, so the heart of man to man" (Proverbs 27:19)? Have we been describing some of the symptoms of your diseased heart? Have you ever owned before God, "Behold I am vile"? Do you bear witness to the humbling fact before your brethren and sisters in Christ? It is comparatively easy to utter such words, but do you feel them? Does the realization of this truth make you "blush" (Ezra 9:6) and groan in secret? Have you such a personal and painful sense of your vileness that, often, you feel thoroughly unfit to draw unto a holy God?
If so:
1. You have abundant cause to be thankful to God, that His Holy Spirit has shown you something of your wretched self, that He has not kept you in ignorance of your woeful state, that He has not left you in that gross spiritual darkness that enshrouds millions of professing Christians.
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 3)
Saturday, July 6, 2019
Trials # 1
Trials # 1
Daniel said, "Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried" (Daniel 12:10). All Christians are glad that they are purified and made white - but when it comes to being tried, that is a very different thing. They shrink from the very word. Their trials are to them as a nightmare from which they would gladly escape. But trials are a part of God's process of preparing us for Heaven, and they are as needful to us as is the blessing, in order that we may be prepared for our glorious eternal habitation.
The peaceful quiet waters soon lose their freshness and become stagnant; the clearness is soon gone, and they are filled with germs. Soon a green scum covers the top, and they become foul and odorous.
Quiet air becomes stagnant. The smoke, the dust, the odors, and the miasma rising from swamps and bogs would soon render quiet air unfit for breathing, and instead of being a life-giving tonic, it would become a life-destroying poison.
God has arranged the operation of natural forces so that there is unceasing motion.
The warm air rises - and the cold air falls. The gentle breezes blow, and swell into great gales and terrible hurricanes. These latter may be very destructive in their actions, but they work out a good by purifying the air. They scatter the noxious poisons far and wide, and carry in pure air to take the place of these.
The waters of the sea are driven and tossed and dashed against the rocks. The sea is ever restless. Its waves are never still. No matter how calm the day, the ripples are ever breaking upon the shore. Were it not for motion, for the storms and currents - the whole ocean would become as stagnant as a pond.
The same thing is true in a large measure in our lives. The storms and obstacles all work out for our good if we meet them as we should. Through them our lives are enriched and ennobled and developed. They are blessings to us, though they may seem to be blessings very much disguised.
Sources of Trials
Many trials are only the natural result of circumstances. Sometimes circumstances are in our favor, and work for our happiness, peace, and contentment. Sometimes we have smooth sailing, and everything goes pleasantly. We are courageous and confident and rejoicing. The sun shines brightly out of a cloudless sky, and every prospect seems fair.
But this smooth sailing does not last forever. Sooner or later, the clouds must come and the storm winds beat upon us. We must have the rough weather - as well as the pleasant weather; the storm - as well as the calm.
The sunshine and the calm are very needful in life, and they work out a definite purpose.
But the storms and the rain and the wind are likewise needed - and they also fulfill their purpose.
Trials will come - we cannot evade them. We may plan and build up hopes - only to have our air-castles come crashing down around our heads! If we have set our hearts upon these things, we are likely to be very disappointed upon their wreck, and to feel very gloomy over the result.
If we permit ourselves to give way and grieve over the failure of our plans and hopes, we will make ourselves and those around us miserable. Sometimes people let go their hold on God, just because they do not get their way in things. They let disappointment so discourage them, that they just give up trying to do right. That is acting like a spoiled child.
If our plans and hopes fail, God will not fail. Sometimes it is a real blessing to us that our plans do fail, for God can plan far wiser for us than we can for ourselves, and we ourselves can act more wisely after we have failed than we did before. We should never fret on account of disappointment. If we do, they will only grow more rapidly, both in size and intensity.
Losses may come to us - our property may be swept away or burned up. If we have our hearts set upon our possessions, this may touch a tender spot, and we may let it darken our lives and make us morose and dissatisfied.
Poverty may come and the many difficulties incident thereto. How greatly such things may try us will depend upon how much we rebel against the circumstances - or how easily we submit to and adapt ourselves to God's will. How greatly we are affected by our trials, depends on whether or not we sweetly submit to them.
Sickness may lay its heavy hand upon us or our loved ones, and try every fiber of our being. Sickness may play upon the chords of pain - a lamentation that incites with exquisite torture! Or it may fire our blood with fever until the sparkle has gone from the eye and the glow of health from the cheek. Or it may bind us in chains helplessly captive.
Death may come and take those dear by the ties of nature or friendship - and leave sorrow and grief to be our companions.
These things try the soul, but they must be borne. We cannot escape such things, for they are the common heritage of those who dwell in the tabernacles of clay. They belong to mortality and to the mutable things of time.
~Charles Naylor~
(continued with # 2)
Daniel said, "Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried" (Daniel 12:10). All Christians are glad that they are purified and made white - but when it comes to being tried, that is a very different thing. They shrink from the very word. Their trials are to them as a nightmare from which they would gladly escape. But trials are a part of God's process of preparing us for Heaven, and they are as needful to us as is the blessing, in order that we may be prepared for our glorious eternal habitation.
The peaceful quiet waters soon lose their freshness and become stagnant; the clearness is soon gone, and they are filled with germs. Soon a green scum covers the top, and they become foul and odorous.
Quiet air becomes stagnant. The smoke, the dust, the odors, and the miasma rising from swamps and bogs would soon render quiet air unfit for breathing, and instead of being a life-giving tonic, it would become a life-destroying poison.
God has arranged the operation of natural forces so that there is unceasing motion.
The warm air rises - and the cold air falls. The gentle breezes blow, and swell into great gales and terrible hurricanes. These latter may be very destructive in their actions, but they work out a good by purifying the air. They scatter the noxious poisons far and wide, and carry in pure air to take the place of these.
The waters of the sea are driven and tossed and dashed against the rocks. The sea is ever restless. Its waves are never still. No matter how calm the day, the ripples are ever breaking upon the shore. Were it not for motion, for the storms and currents - the whole ocean would become as stagnant as a pond.
The same thing is true in a large measure in our lives. The storms and obstacles all work out for our good if we meet them as we should. Through them our lives are enriched and ennobled and developed. They are blessings to us, though they may seem to be blessings very much disguised.
Sources of Trials
Many trials are only the natural result of circumstances. Sometimes circumstances are in our favor, and work for our happiness, peace, and contentment. Sometimes we have smooth sailing, and everything goes pleasantly. We are courageous and confident and rejoicing. The sun shines brightly out of a cloudless sky, and every prospect seems fair.
But this smooth sailing does not last forever. Sooner or later, the clouds must come and the storm winds beat upon us. We must have the rough weather - as well as the pleasant weather; the storm - as well as the calm.
The sunshine and the calm are very needful in life, and they work out a definite purpose.
But the storms and the rain and the wind are likewise needed - and they also fulfill their purpose.
Trials will come - we cannot evade them. We may plan and build up hopes - only to have our air-castles come crashing down around our heads! If we have set our hearts upon these things, we are likely to be very disappointed upon their wreck, and to feel very gloomy over the result.
If we permit ourselves to give way and grieve over the failure of our plans and hopes, we will make ourselves and those around us miserable. Sometimes people let go their hold on God, just because they do not get their way in things. They let disappointment so discourage them, that they just give up trying to do right. That is acting like a spoiled child.
If our plans and hopes fail, God will not fail. Sometimes it is a real blessing to us that our plans do fail, for God can plan far wiser for us than we can for ourselves, and we ourselves can act more wisely after we have failed than we did before. We should never fret on account of disappointment. If we do, they will only grow more rapidly, both in size and intensity.
Losses may come to us - our property may be swept away or burned up. If we have our hearts set upon our possessions, this may touch a tender spot, and we may let it darken our lives and make us morose and dissatisfied.
Poverty may come and the many difficulties incident thereto. How greatly such things may try us will depend upon how much we rebel against the circumstances - or how easily we submit to and adapt ourselves to God's will. How greatly we are affected by our trials, depends on whether or not we sweetly submit to them.
Sickness may lay its heavy hand upon us or our loved ones, and try every fiber of our being. Sickness may play upon the chords of pain - a lamentation that incites with exquisite torture! Or it may fire our blood with fever until the sparkle has gone from the eye and the glow of health from the cheek. Or it may bind us in chains helplessly captive.
Death may come and take those dear by the ties of nature or friendship - and leave sorrow and grief to be our companions.
These things try the soul, but they must be borne. We cannot escape such things, for they are the common heritage of those who dwell in the tabernacles of clay. They belong to mortality and to the mutable things of time.
~Charles Naylor~
(continued with # 2)
Vile! # 1
Vile! # 1
We are rather afraid that its title will deter some from reading this article: we hope it will not be so. True, it does not treat of a popular theme, nay, one which is now very rarely heard in the pulpit; nevertheless, it is a scriptural one.
Fallen man is "vile," so vile that it has been rightly said "he is half brute, half devil." Nor does such a description exceed the truth. Man is "born like a wild donkey's colt" (Job 11:12), and he is "taken captive by the devil at his will" (2 Tim. 2:26). Perhaps the reader is ready to reply, "Ah, that is man in his unregenerate state, but it is far otherwise with the regenerate. From one viewpoint that is true; from another, it is not so. Did not the Psalmist acknowledge, "So foolish was I, and ignorant: I was as a beast before You!" (73:22) unteachable, intractable, kicking against God's providential dealings; not behaving like a man, much less like a saint! Again, did not Agur confess, "Surely I am more brutish than any man!" (Proverbs 30:2). True, we never hear such lamentations as these from those who claim to have received their "Pentecost" or "second blessing," nor from those who boast they are living "the victorious life". But to those who are painfully conscious of the "plague" of their own heart, such words may often describe their case.
Only recently we received a letter from a dear brother in Christ, saying, "the vanity and corruption that I find within, which refuses to be kept in subjection, is so strong at times that it makes me cry out - My wounds fester and are loathsome because of my sinful folly." Does the reader object against our appropriation of the Psalms and Proverbs, and say, "We in this New Testament dispensation occupy much high ground than those did." Probably you have often been told so by men, but are you sure of it from the Word of God? Listen, then, to the groan of an eminent Christian: "I am carnal, sold under sin!" (Romans 7:14). Do you never feel thus, my reader? Then we are sincerely sorry for you!
As to the other part of the description of fallen man, "half devil": did not Christ say to the regenerate Peter, "Get behind Me, satan: you are an offence unto Me" (Matt. 16:23)? And are there not times when writer and reader fully merit the same reproof? Speaking for myself, I bow my head with shame, and say, "Alas there is." "Behold, I am vile" (Job 40:4). This was not said by Cain in a remorseful moment after his murder of Abel, nor by Judas after he had betrayed the Saviour into the hands of His enemies; instead, it was the utterance of one of whom God said, "There is none like him in the earth, a perfect (sincere) and an upright man, one who fears God, and eschews evil" (Job 1:8). Was Job's language of self-depreciation? If he was, are Christians today warranted in echoing the same?
In order to arrive at the correct answer to the above questions, let us ask another: when was it that Job said, "Behold, I am vile"? Was it when he first received tidings of his heavy losses? No, for then he exclaimed, "the Lord gave, and the Lord taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord" (1:21). Was it when his friends reasoned with and reproved him? No, for then he vindicated himself and boasted of his goodness. Then when was it that Job declared "Behold, I am vile"? It was when the Lord appeared to him and gave him a startling revelation of His own wondrous perfections! It was when he stood in the all-penetrating light of God's immaculate holiness and was made to realize something of His mighty power. Ah, when a soul is truly brought into the presence of the living God, boasting ceases, our loveliness is turned into corruption (Dan. 10:8), and we cry, "Woe is me! for I am undone!" (Isaiah 6:5).
When God makes to the soul a personal revelation of His wondrous perfections, that individual is effectually convinced of his own wretchedness. The more we are given to discern the ineffable glory of the Lord, the more will our self-complacency wither. It is in God's light, and in that only "we see light". When he shines into our understanding and hearts, and brings to light 'the hidden things of darkness" (1 Cor. 4:5), we perceive the utter corruption of our nature, and are abominable in our own eyes. While we measure ourselves by our fellows, we shall, most likely, think more highly of ourselves than we ought to think (Romans 12:3); but when we measure ourselves by the holy requirements of God's nature, we cry "I am dust and ashes" (Genesis 18:27).
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 2)
We are rather afraid that its title will deter some from reading this article: we hope it will not be so. True, it does not treat of a popular theme, nay, one which is now very rarely heard in the pulpit; nevertheless, it is a scriptural one.
Fallen man is "vile," so vile that it has been rightly said "he is half brute, half devil." Nor does such a description exceed the truth. Man is "born like a wild donkey's colt" (Job 11:12), and he is "taken captive by the devil at his will" (2 Tim. 2:26). Perhaps the reader is ready to reply, "Ah, that is man in his unregenerate state, but it is far otherwise with the regenerate. From one viewpoint that is true; from another, it is not so. Did not the Psalmist acknowledge, "So foolish was I, and ignorant: I was as a beast before You!" (73:22) unteachable, intractable, kicking against God's providential dealings; not behaving like a man, much less like a saint! Again, did not Agur confess, "Surely I am more brutish than any man!" (Proverbs 30:2). True, we never hear such lamentations as these from those who claim to have received their "Pentecost" or "second blessing," nor from those who boast they are living "the victorious life". But to those who are painfully conscious of the "plague" of their own heart, such words may often describe their case.
Only recently we received a letter from a dear brother in Christ, saying, "the vanity and corruption that I find within, which refuses to be kept in subjection, is so strong at times that it makes me cry out - My wounds fester and are loathsome because of my sinful folly." Does the reader object against our appropriation of the Psalms and Proverbs, and say, "We in this New Testament dispensation occupy much high ground than those did." Probably you have often been told so by men, but are you sure of it from the Word of God? Listen, then, to the groan of an eminent Christian: "I am carnal, sold under sin!" (Romans 7:14). Do you never feel thus, my reader? Then we are sincerely sorry for you!
As to the other part of the description of fallen man, "half devil": did not Christ say to the regenerate Peter, "Get behind Me, satan: you are an offence unto Me" (Matt. 16:23)? And are there not times when writer and reader fully merit the same reproof? Speaking for myself, I bow my head with shame, and say, "Alas there is." "Behold, I am vile" (Job 40:4). This was not said by Cain in a remorseful moment after his murder of Abel, nor by Judas after he had betrayed the Saviour into the hands of His enemies; instead, it was the utterance of one of whom God said, "There is none like him in the earth, a perfect (sincere) and an upright man, one who fears God, and eschews evil" (Job 1:8). Was Job's language of self-depreciation? If he was, are Christians today warranted in echoing the same?
In order to arrive at the correct answer to the above questions, let us ask another: when was it that Job said, "Behold, I am vile"? Was it when he first received tidings of his heavy losses? No, for then he exclaimed, "the Lord gave, and the Lord taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord" (1:21). Was it when his friends reasoned with and reproved him? No, for then he vindicated himself and boasted of his goodness. Then when was it that Job declared "Behold, I am vile"? It was when the Lord appeared to him and gave him a startling revelation of His own wondrous perfections! It was when he stood in the all-penetrating light of God's immaculate holiness and was made to realize something of His mighty power. Ah, when a soul is truly brought into the presence of the living God, boasting ceases, our loveliness is turned into corruption (Dan. 10:8), and we cry, "Woe is me! for I am undone!" (Isaiah 6:5).
When God makes to the soul a personal revelation of His wondrous perfections, that individual is effectually convinced of his own wretchedness. The more we are given to discern the ineffable glory of the Lord, the more will our self-complacency wither. It is in God's light, and in that only "we see light". When he shines into our understanding and hearts, and brings to light 'the hidden things of darkness" (1 Cor. 4:5), we perceive the utter corruption of our nature, and are abominable in our own eyes. While we measure ourselves by our fellows, we shall, most likely, think more highly of ourselves than we ought to think (Romans 12:3); but when we measure ourselves by the holy requirements of God's nature, we cry "I am dust and ashes" (Genesis 18:27).
~A. W. Pink~
(continued with # 2)
Saturday, June 29, 2019
We Must Be Holy # 2
We Must Be Holy # 2
You may say, At this rate, very few will be saved. I answer - I know it! Jesus said so eighteen hundred years ago! Few will be saved, because few will take the trouble to seek salvation. Men will not deny themselves the pleasures of sin and their own way for a season; for this they turn their backs on "an inheritance to Me," says Jesus, "that you might have life" (John 5:40).
You may say, "These are hard sayings - the way is narrow. I answer, "I know it!" Jesus said so, eighteen hundred years ago. He always said that men must take up the cross daily, that they must be ready to cut off hand or foot - if they would be His disciples. It is in true religion, as it is in other things, "There are no gains without pains." That which costs nothing is worth nothing!
Reader, whatever you may think fit to say, you must be holy - if you would see the Lord in eternal glory. Where is your Christianity, if you are not holy? Show it to me without holiness, if you can. You must not merely have a Christian name and Christian knowledge, you must have a Christian character also. You must be a saint on earth - if ever you mean to be a saint in heaven. God has said it, and He will not go back, "Without holiness, no man shall see the Lord." "The Pope's calendar," says one, "only makes saints of the dead; but Scripture requires sanctity in the living." "Let not men deceive themselves," says Owen, "sanctification is a qualification indispensably necessary, unto those who will be under the conduct of the Lord Jesus unto salvation. He leads none to heaven - but whom He sanctifies on the earth. This living Head will not admit of dead members!"
Surely you will not wonder that Scripture says, "You must be born again" (John 3:7). Surely it is clear as noonday, that many of you need a complete change - new hearts, new natures - if ever you are to be saved. Old things must pass away, you must become new creatures! Without holiness no man, be he who he may - no man shall ever see the Lord.
Would you be holy? Would you become a new creature? Then begin with Christ! He is the beginning of all holiness. He is not only wisdom and righteousness to His people - but sanctification also. Men sometimes try to make themselves holy first - and sad work them make of it! Little wonder, for they are at the wrong end! They are building up a wall of sand - their work runs down as fast as they throw it up. Other foundation of holiness, can no man lay, than that which Paul laid, even Christ Jesus. Without Christ, we can do nothing. It is a strong but true saying of Traill's, "Wisdom outside of Christ - is damning folly! Righteousness outside of Christ - is guilt and condemnation! Sanctification outside of Christ - is filth and sin! Redemption outside of Christ - is bondage and slavery!"
Would you be holy? Would you be partakers of the Divine nature? Then go to Christ! Wait for nothing! Wait for nobody! Do not linger! Think not to make you yourself ready! Go, and say to Him, in the words of that beautiful hymn - "Nothing in my hand I bring, Simply to Your Cross I cling! Naked, flee to You for dress; Helpless, look to You for grace!"
There is not a brick nor a stone in the work of our sanctification, until we go to Christ. Holiness is His special gift to His believing people. Holiness is the work He carries on in their hearts, by the Spirit whom He puts within them. He is appointed a Prince and a Saviour, to give repentance as well as remission of sins. To as many as receive Him - He gives power to become sons of God. Holiness does not come by blood - parents cannot give it to their children. Holiness does not come by the will of the flesh - man cannot produce it in himself. Holiness does not come by the will of man - ministers cannot give it you by baptism. Holiness comes from Christ! It is the result of vital union with Him. It is the fruit of a living branch of the true vine. Go then to Christ! And say to Him, "Make me holy! Teach me to do Your will."
Would you continue holy, when you have once been made so? Then abide in Christ. He says Himself, "Abide in Me, and I in you. He who abides in Me, and I in him - brings forth much fruit" (John 15:4, 5).
Jesus is the Physician to whom You must go, if you would keep well. He is the Manna which you must daily eat, and the Rock of which you must daily drink. His arm is the arm on which you must daily lean, as you come up out of the wilderness of this world. You must not only be rooted, you must be built up in Him.
Reader, may you and I know these things by experience, and not by hearsay only! May we all feel the importance of holiness, far more than we have ever done yet! May our years be holy years with our souls, and then I know they will be happy ones! But this I say once more, "We must be holy!"
~J. C. Ryle~
(The End)
You may say, At this rate, very few will be saved. I answer - I know it! Jesus said so eighteen hundred years ago! Few will be saved, because few will take the trouble to seek salvation. Men will not deny themselves the pleasures of sin and their own way for a season; for this they turn their backs on "an inheritance to Me," says Jesus, "that you might have life" (John 5:40).
You may say, "These are hard sayings - the way is narrow. I answer, "I know it!" Jesus said so, eighteen hundred years ago. He always said that men must take up the cross daily, that they must be ready to cut off hand or foot - if they would be His disciples. It is in true religion, as it is in other things, "There are no gains without pains." That which costs nothing is worth nothing!
Reader, whatever you may think fit to say, you must be holy - if you would see the Lord in eternal glory. Where is your Christianity, if you are not holy? Show it to me without holiness, if you can. You must not merely have a Christian name and Christian knowledge, you must have a Christian character also. You must be a saint on earth - if ever you mean to be a saint in heaven. God has said it, and He will not go back, "Without holiness, no man shall see the Lord." "The Pope's calendar," says one, "only makes saints of the dead; but Scripture requires sanctity in the living." "Let not men deceive themselves," says Owen, "sanctification is a qualification indispensably necessary, unto those who will be under the conduct of the Lord Jesus unto salvation. He leads none to heaven - but whom He sanctifies on the earth. This living Head will not admit of dead members!"
Surely you will not wonder that Scripture says, "You must be born again" (John 3:7). Surely it is clear as noonday, that many of you need a complete change - new hearts, new natures - if ever you are to be saved. Old things must pass away, you must become new creatures! Without holiness no man, be he who he may - no man shall ever see the Lord.
Would you be holy? Would you become a new creature? Then begin with Christ! He is the beginning of all holiness. He is not only wisdom and righteousness to His people - but sanctification also. Men sometimes try to make themselves holy first - and sad work them make of it! Little wonder, for they are at the wrong end! They are building up a wall of sand - their work runs down as fast as they throw it up. Other foundation of holiness, can no man lay, than that which Paul laid, even Christ Jesus. Without Christ, we can do nothing. It is a strong but true saying of Traill's, "Wisdom outside of Christ - is damning folly! Righteousness outside of Christ - is guilt and condemnation! Sanctification outside of Christ - is filth and sin! Redemption outside of Christ - is bondage and slavery!"
Would you be holy? Would you be partakers of the Divine nature? Then go to Christ! Wait for nothing! Wait for nobody! Do not linger! Think not to make you yourself ready! Go, and say to Him, in the words of that beautiful hymn - "Nothing in my hand I bring, Simply to Your Cross I cling! Naked, flee to You for dress; Helpless, look to You for grace!"
There is not a brick nor a stone in the work of our sanctification, until we go to Christ. Holiness is His special gift to His believing people. Holiness is the work He carries on in their hearts, by the Spirit whom He puts within them. He is appointed a Prince and a Saviour, to give repentance as well as remission of sins. To as many as receive Him - He gives power to become sons of God. Holiness does not come by blood - parents cannot give it to their children. Holiness does not come by the will of the flesh - man cannot produce it in himself. Holiness does not come by the will of man - ministers cannot give it you by baptism. Holiness comes from Christ! It is the result of vital union with Him. It is the fruit of a living branch of the true vine. Go then to Christ! And say to Him, "Make me holy! Teach me to do Your will."
Would you continue holy, when you have once been made so? Then abide in Christ. He says Himself, "Abide in Me, and I in you. He who abides in Me, and I in him - brings forth much fruit" (John 15:4, 5).
Jesus is the Physician to whom You must go, if you would keep well. He is the Manna which you must daily eat, and the Rock of which you must daily drink. His arm is the arm on which you must daily lean, as you come up out of the wilderness of this world. You must not only be rooted, you must be built up in Him.
Reader, may you and I know these things by experience, and not by hearsay only! May we all feel the importance of holiness, far more than we have ever done yet! May our years be holy years with our souls, and then I know they will be happy ones! But this I say once more, "We must be holy!"
~J. C. Ryle~
(The End)
We Must Be Holy # 1
We Must Be Holy # 1
We must be holy on earth before we die - if we desire to go to heaven after death! If we hope to dwell with God forever in the life to come - we must endeavor to be like Him in the life that now is. We must not only admire holiness, and wish for holiness - we must be holy.
Holiness cannot justify and save us. Holiness cannot cover our iniquities, make satisfaction for transgressions, pay our debts to God. Our best works are no better than filthy rags, when tried by the light of God's law. The righteousness which Jesus Christ brought in, must be our only confidence - and the blood of His atonement, our only hope. All this is perfectly true, and yet we must be holy.
We must be holy - because God in the Bible plainly commands it. "As He who has called you is holy - so be holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, Be holy - for I am holy" (1 Peter 1:15, 16).
We must be holy - because this is one great end for which Christ came into the world. "He died for all, that those who live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto Him who died for them, and rose again" (2 Cor. 5:15).
We must be holy - because this is the only sound evidence that we have a saving faith in Christ. "Faith, if it has not works, is dead, being alone." "As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also" (James 2:17, 26).
We must be holy - because this is the only proof that we love the Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. What can be more plain than our Lord's own words? "If you love Me - keep My commandments." "He who has My commandments, and keeps them - he it is that loves Me." (John 14:15, 21).
We must be holy - because this is the only sound evidence that we are God's children. "As many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God." "Whoever does not righteousness is not of God" (Romans 8:14; 1 John 3:10).
Lastly, we must be holy - because without holiness on earth, we should never be prepared and fit for heaven. It is written of the heavenly glory, "There shall never enter into it anything that defiles, neither whatever works abomination, or makes a lie" (Rev. 21:27). Paul says expressly, "Without holiness, no man shall see the Lord!" (Heb. 12:14).
Ah, reader, the last text I have just quoted is very solemn. It ought to make you think. It was written by the inspiration of God - it is not my private fancy. Its words are the words of the Bible - not of my own invention. God has said it, and God will stand to it: "Without holiness, no man shall see the Lord."
What tremendous words these are! What thoughts come across my mind as I write them down! I look at the world - and see the greater part of it lying in wickedness! I look at professing Christians - and see the vast majority having nothing of Christianity, but the name! I turn to the Bible, and I hear the Spirit saying, "Without holiness, no man shall see the Lord!
Surely it is a text that ought to make you consider your ways, and search your hearts. Surely it should raise within you solemn thoughts, and send you to prayer.
You may try to put me off by saying you feel much, and think much about these things - far more than many suppose. I answer, This is not the point. The poor lost souls in hell, do as much as this! The great question is, not what you think and what you feel - but what you DO. ARE YOU HOLY?
You may say, It was never meant that all Christians should be holy, and that holiness such as I have described is only for great saints, and people of uncommon gifts. I answer, "I cannot see this in Scripture. I read that "every man who has hope in Christ, purifies himself" (1 John 3:3). "Without holiness no man shall see the Lord."
You may say, It is impossible to be so holy, and to do our duty in this life at the same time - the thing cannot be done. I answer, You are mistaken - it can be done. With God on your side, nothing is impossible. It has been done by many: Moses, and Obadiah, and Daniel, and the servants of Nero's household, are all examples that go to prove it.
You many say, If you were so holy - you would be unlike other people. I answer, "I know it well - it is just what I want you to be. Christ's true servants, always were unlike the world around them - a separate nation, a peculiar people, and you must be too, if you would be saved.
~J. C. Ryle~
(continued with # 2)
We must be holy on earth before we die - if we desire to go to heaven after death! If we hope to dwell with God forever in the life to come - we must endeavor to be like Him in the life that now is. We must not only admire holiness, and wish for holiness - we must be holy.
Holiness cannot justify and save us. Holiness cannot cover our iniquities, make satisfaction for transgressions, pay our debts to God. Our best works are no better than filthy rags, when tried by the light of God's law. The righteousness which Jesus Christ brought in, must be our only confidence - and the blood of His atonement, our only hope. All this is perfectly true, and yet we must be holy.
We must be holy - because God in the Bible plainly commands it. "As He who has called you is holy - so be holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, Be holy - for I am holy" (1 Peter 1:15, 16).
We must be holy - because this is one great end for which Christ came into the world. "He died for all, that those who live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto Him who died for them, and rose again" (2 Cor. 5:15).
We must be holy - because this is the only sound evidence that we have a saving faith in Christ. "Faith, if it has not works, is dead, being alone." "As the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also" (James 2:17, 26).
We must be holy - because this is the only proof that we love the Lord Jesus Christ in sincerity. What can be more plain than our Lord's own words? "If you love Me - keep My commandments." "He who has My commandments, and keeps them - he it is that loves Me." (John 14:15, 21).
We must be holy - because this is the only sound evidence that we are God's children. "As many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God." "Whoever does not righteousness is not of God" (Romans 8:14; 1 John 3:10).
Lastly, we must be holy - because without holiness on earth, we should never be prepared and fit for heaven. It is written of the heavenly glory, "There shall never enter into it anything that defiles, neither whatever works abomination, or makes a lie" (Rev. 21:27). Paul says expressly, "Without holiness, no man shall see the Lord!" (Heb. 12:14).
Ah, reader, the last text I have just quoted is very solemn. It ought to make you think. It was written by the inspiration of God - it is not my private fancy. Its words are the words of the Bible - not of my own invention. God has said it, and God will stand to it: "Without holiness, no man shall see the Lord."
What tremendous words these are! What thoughts come across my mind as I write them down! I look at the world - and see the greater part of it lying in wickedness! I look at professing Christians - and see the vast majority having nothing of Christianity, but the name! I turn to the Bible, and I hear the Spirit saying, "Without holiness, no man shall see the Lord!
Surely it is a text that ought to make you consider your ways, and search your hearts. Surely it should raise within you solemn thoughts, and send you to prayer.
You may try to put me off by saying you feel much, and think much about these things - far more than many suppose. I answer, This is not the point. The poor lost souls in hell, do as much as this! The great question is, not what you think and what you feel - but what you DO. ARE YOU HOLY?
You may say, It was never meant that all Christians should be holy, and that holiness such as I have described is only for great saints, and people of uncommon gifts. I answer, "I cannot see this in Scripture. I read that "every man who has hope in Christ, purifies himself" (1 John 3:3). "Without holiness no man shall see the Lord."
You may say, It is impossible to be so holy, and to do our duty in this life at the same time - the thing cannot be done. I answer, You are mistaken - it can be done. With God on your side, nothing is impossible. It has been done by many: Moses, and Obadiah, and Daniel, and the servants of Nero's household, are all examples that go to prove it.
You many say, If you were so holy - you would be unlike other people. I answer, "I know it well - it is just what I want you to be. Christ's true servants, always were unlike the world around them - a separate nation, a peculiar people, and you must be too, if you would be saved.
~J. C. Ryle~
(continued with # 2)
Saturday, June 22, 2019
Christ, The Portion of Believers # 2
Christ, The Portion of Believers # 2
Are they oppressed with poverty? He can send his ravens to feed them.
Are they immured in prisons? He can commission His angels to deliver them.
Are they in perils of water? The winds and the waves obey His voice.
Are they exposed to ravenous beasts? He can stop the mouths of lions.
Are they cast into the burning furnace? He can quench the burning of fire.
In spiritual concerns is He less mighty to save? Hear His own declaration: "I give them eternal life, and they will never perish - ever! No one will snatch them out of My hand!" Hear the declaration of His holy apostle, Paul: "I know whom I have believed; and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him, against that day." What comfortable declarations to the people of Christ!
satan may desire to have them, that he may sift them as wheat - but stronger is He who is with them, than he who is against them. In themselves they are weak and ready to fall; but underneath them are the everlasting arms. He who loved them and gave Himself for them - is able to save them to the uttermost! He will keep them by His power, through faith unto salvation.
O Christian, every attractive excellence meets in the Redeemer. His heart overflows with compassion to all His people; for in Hi pity and in His love He redeemed them. Though He is invested with infinite majesty - still He is meek and lowly in heart. The compassion which dwelt in His heart when dying upon the Cross, is still existing there. Your friend is "Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today, and forever!"
The progress of time changes man; but the revolution of eternal ages will not alter the compassion of God, who is of one mind; and who can turn Him? Read His life, mark His conduct, behold Him wounded, bleeding, and dying; then listen to His heart. "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do;" and it will be acknowledged that, His heart is made of tenderness, His affections melt with love.
In accordance with this representation, the Redeemer is said to nourish and cherish the church, "For we are members of His body, and of His flesh, and of His bones." Beautiful and apt representation!
You naturally feel interested in the welfare of your body. You are concerned to supply it food, to shield it from injury and pain, and to promote its comfort and welfare.
Believers are the peculiar property of Christ. "If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord."
Jesus Christ is the believer's portion - his Redeemer - His brother - His friend! How wonderful the love which applies such endearing names for the comfort of the chief of sinners!
But oh! how different is the friendship of Him who died for us, when we were His enemies by wicked works.
O Christian, is Christ your Friend? Is Christ your all? Are you united to Him, and He to you? If so, then immense and countless blessings, for time and eternity, result from such a union. Here is enough to alleviate your distress, and to heighten your happiness. This is a sovereign antidote to every human ill. This exalted privilege is calculated to render even mourners happy. Possessed of this privilege, you may calmly look forward to a world where the friendship and love of Jesus shall be enjoyed in higher perfection, through eternal ages. Yes, and in every future season of distress - when the earthly frame shall give symptoms of decay - in the valley of the shadow of death - amid all the solemnities of judgment, Christ, your Friend, will be with you, with all His power, and love, and consolation - as a Friend that sticks closer than a brother!
Poor, weak, and worthless, though I am,
I have a rich Almighty Friend!
Jesus, the Saviour, is His name,
He freely loves, and without end!
He ransomed me from hell, with blood,
And by His power my fears controlled,
He found me wandering far from God,
And brought me to His holy fold.
He cheers my heart, my wants supplies,
And says that I shall shortly be,
Enthroned with Him above the skies,
Oh! what a friend is Christ to me!
~William Nicholson~
(The End)
Are they oppressed with poverty? He can send his ravens to feed them.
Are they immured in prisons? He can commission His angels to deliver them.
Are they in perils of water? The winds and the waves obey His voice.
Are they exposed to ravenous beasts? He can stop the mouths of lions.
Are they cast into the burning furnace? He can quench the burning of fire.
In spiritual concerns is He less mighty to save? Hear His own declaration: "I give them eternal life, and they will never perish - ever! No one will snatch them out of My hand!" Hear the declaration of His holy apostle, Paul: "I know whom I have believed; and am persuaded that He is able to keep that which I have committed unto Him, against that day." What comfortable declarations to the people of Christ!
satan may desire to have them, that he may sift them as wheat - but stronger is He who is with them, than he who is against them. In themselves they are weak and ready to fall; but underneath them are the everlasting arms. He who loved them and gave Himself for them - is able to save them to the uttermost! He will keep them by His power, through faith unto salvation.
O Christian, every attractive excellence meets in the Redeemer. His heart overflows with compassion to all His people; for in Hi pity and in His love He redeemed them. Though He is invested with infinite majesty - still He is meek and lowly in heart. The compassion which dwelt in His heart when dying upon the Cross, is still existing there. Your friend is "Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, today, and forever!"
The progress of time changes man; but the revolution of eternal ages will not alter the compassion of God, who is of one mind; and who can turn Him? Read His life, mark His conduct, behold Him wounded, bleeding, and dying; then listen to His heart. "Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do;" and it will be acknowledged that, His heart is made of tenderness, His affections melt with love.
In accordance with this representation, the Redeemer is said to nourish and cherish the church, "For we are members of His body, and of His flesh, and of His bones." Beautiful and apt representation!
You naturally feel interested in the welfare of your body. You are concerned to supply it food, to shield it from injury and pain, and to promote its comfort and welfare.
Believers are the peculiar property of Christ. "If we live, we live to the Lord; and if we die, we die to the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord."
Jesus Christ is the believer's portion - his Redeemer - His brother - His friend! How wonderful the love which applies such endearing names for the comfort of the chief of sinners!
But oh! how different is the friendship of Him who died for us, when we were His enemies by wicked works.
O Christian, is Christ your Friend? Is Christ your all? Are you united to Him, and He to you? If so, then immense and countless blessings, for time and eternity, result from such a union. Here is enough to alleviate your distress, and to heighten your happiness. This is a sovereign antidote to every human ill. This exalted privilege is calculated to render even mourners happy. Possessed of this privilege, you may calmly look forward to a world where the friendship and love of Jesus shall be enjoyed in higher perfection, through eternal ages. Yes, and in every future season of distress - when the earthly frame shall give symptoms of decay - in the valley of the shadow of death - amid all the solemnities of judgment, Christ, your Friend, will be with you, with all His power, and love, and consolation - as a Friend that sticks closer than a brother!
Poor, weak, and worthless, though I am,
I have a rich Almighty Friend!
Jesus, the Saviour, is His name,
He freely loves, and without end!
He ransomed me from hell, with blood,
And by His power my fears controlled,
He found me wandering far from God,
And brought me to His holy fold.
He cheers my heart, my wants supplies,
And says that I shall shortly be,
Enthroned with Him above the skies,
Oh! what a friend is Christ to me!
~William Nicholson~
(The End)
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