THE NEW YEAR!

Today is December 30, and tomorrow is New Year's Eve!  Standing on the brink of 2021, I seem to hear the prophet, Isaiah, saying -- "Watchman, what of the night?  Watchman, what of the night?"  The year of 2020 has been a difficult year for many, as sorrow and heartaches have entered the homes of the godly, as well as the ungodly.  So how are we to face the New Year?  I believe we should face it in the words of the great Apostle, Paul, to the church at Philippi -- "Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus."  Praise the Lord for this wonderful challenge for the New Year!                                                      And then, I believe we should walk this new year of 2021 in the challenge given us by Lillian Gray --                                                                                          

"Let us WALK SOFTLY, friend, for strange paths lie before us all untrod.                                                   The new year, spotless from the hand of God, is mine and thine, O friend.                                                  Let us WALK STRAIGHTLY, friend, forget the crooked paths behind us now,                                          Press on with steadier purpose on our brow to better deeds, O friend.

Let us WALK GLADLY, friend, perchance some greater good than we have known                                  Is waiting for us, or some fair hope flown shall yet return, O friend.                                                           Let us WALK KINDLY, friend, we cannot tell how long this life shall last,                                                How soon these precious years shall all be past.  Let love walk with us, friend.

Let us WALK QUICKLY, friend, work with our might while lasts our little stay                                        And help some halting comrade on the way.  And may God guide us, friend."

And, finally, let us keep this sweet song in our heart and on our lips -- 

    "Moment by moment I'm kept in His love; Moment by moment I've life from above.                                 Looking to Jesus till glory doth shine, Moment by moment, O Lord, I am Thine."                                                                                                                

DAILY BLESSINGS

It was so good to be in the house of the Lord yesterday on the last Sunday of 2020!  As we near the end of the year, it is customary to think back over the year and meditate upon our blessings.  Perhaps many have experienced defeats, losses, disappointments, and injuries -- some in great number.  But if we are honest with ourselves, I believe the Christian will acknowledge that his blessings have far outweighed his burdens.  Psalm 68:19 says -- "Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation."  And we have the blessed promise in Romans 8:28 that we have proven true many times:  "And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to His purpose."

It is also important for us to remember that even a burden can become a blessing if we will take it as a gift from God for our spiritual benefit.  Therefore, we can say with the Psalmist -- "Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.  The Apostle Paul said in I Thessalonians -- "In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you."  And he reminds us again in Philippians to "Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice."

When we think about the God of our Salvation, it is so blessed to know that whatever we have, or don't have, in this life, we can all have the wonderful gift of knowing Jesus as our personal Saviour, Sanctifier, and soon-coming King!  We can walk with the King in humble obedience, and be ready to meet Him whenever He calls!  Every day we can sense the indwelling presence of the blessed Holy Spirit, the illuminating guidance of His Holy Word, the daily provision of our needs, and the assurance of His love!

And for the icing on the cake -- our Heavenly Father assures us as we prepare to enter the unknown future of 2021 -- if we will seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, He will take care of everything else!  Praise the Lord!!      

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

 "And the angel said . . . Behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.  For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord."

"Hallelujah!  Hallelujah!  Sing this Christmas morn;                                                                                       Hallelujah!  Hallelujah!  Christ the Lord is born!"

"Alleluia!  O how the angels sang!  Alleluia!  How it rang!                                                                             And the sky was bright with a holy light; 'Twas the birthday of a King!"

May the presence of the King be especially near to you and your loved ones as you gather together on this blessed Christmas Day!  

THT BEST CHRISTMAS PUDDING!

 On this Monday before Christmas Day, I expect many of you that love to bake are finishing up your favorite breads, cookies, candies, etc.  Yesterday I saw this wonderful recipe for "The Best Christmas Pudding" by Frank Peairs.  Be sure and include it in all of your Christmas gatherings!

"Take some human nature -- as you find it, the commonest variety will do --                                                  Put a little graciousness behind it, add a lump of charity -- or two.                                                                  Squeeze in just a drop of moderation, half as much frugality -- or less.                                                          Add some very fine consideration; strain off all of poverty's distress.

Pour some milk of human kindness in it; put in all the happiness you can.                                                      Stir it up with laughter every minute, season with good-will toward every man.                                            Set it on the fire of heart's affection; leave it till the jolly bubbles rise;                                                            Sprinkle it with kisses -- for confection, sweeten with a look from loving eyes.

Flavor it with children's merry chatter, frost it with the snows of wintry dells,                                                Place it on a holly garnished platter, and serve it with the song of Christmas bells."

"I heard the bells on Christmas Day their old familiar carols play,                                                                   And wild and sweet the words repeat of peace on earth, good will to men.                                                      Then pealed the bells more loud and deep; God is not dead; nor doth He sleep;                                              The wrong shall fail, the right prevail, with peace on earth, good will to men.  

CHRISTMAS WISH!

Tomorrow, December 20, is Christmas Sunday!!  Sadly, because of sickness, some will not be able to be in the House of the Lord!  But wherever you are, you can open your heart, lift up your voice and sing with the angels -- "Hallelujah!  Hallelujah!  Sing this Christmas morn; Hallelujah!  Hallelujah!  Christ the Lord is born!"  This poem, "Christmas Wish", by Pollyanna Sedziol, is a lovely gift which I hope each of you will open on Christmas Day! 

"May you know the TRUTH of Christmas, that Jesus Christ is King ---                                                          Both in a lowly manger where heavenly angels sing,                                                                                        And on the throne of God where hosannas ever ring.

May you know the LOVE of Christmas, made incarnate on that night,                                                            When Jesus came to live on earth, bringing hope and light;                                                                             Atoning, healing, giving life, conquering wrong, enthroning right.

May you know the PEACE of Christmas that Christ alone can give,                                                               Not only in your home, and daily as you live,                                                                                                   But hourly, weekly, yearly, and onward to life's eve."  Amen!                                                       

A SONG IN THE AIR!

 Praise the Lord for this day He hath made!  Let us rejoice and be glad in it!  Christmas is filled with beautiful music -- you can almost hear the Angels singing again this morning -- "Glory to the new-born King!"  "There's a Song in the Air" this morning, and I trust it will fill and thrill your soul as we look at this lovely carol.

"The author of this carol was a medical Doctor.  Josiah Holland was a native of Massachusetts, and the four verses of the lovely Christmas Carol, There's a Song in the Air, were initially composed for a Sunday School journal as a poetic retelling of the Christmas story.  In 1874, when Holland published a collection of his poetry, he included this Christmas poem but did not consider it one of his finer works.  A Latin professor, Karl P. Harrington, working 25 years after Holland's death, discovered it while compiling a new hymnal for the Methodist Church.

In his research, he read through volumes of poetry and stacks of old hymn collections.  Then he picked up a small volume by a popular 19th century writer named Josiah Holland.  Leafing through the pages, he happened upon a poem based upon the Christmas story.  The verses weren't filled with deep theology, but they communicated a spiritual joy that struck the emotions.  Harrison sat down and began composing a melody, line by line, for Holland's poem.  When he finished, he had helped to create a simple, yet powerful carol that has been sung in churches of all denominations every Christmas for more than a century."  I trust that it will be a blessing to your heart today!

"There's a song in the air!  There's a star in the sky!                                                                                      There's a Mother's deep prayer and a Baby's low cry!                                                                                 And the star rains its fire while the beautiful sing,                                                                                       For the manger of Bethlehem cradles a King!

 There's a tumult of joy o'er the wonderful birth,                                                                                          For the virgin's sweet Boy is the Lord of the earth.                                                                                     Ay!  the star rains its fire while the beautiful sing,                                                                                        For the manger of Bethlehem cradles a King!

In the light of that star lie the ages impearled;                                                                                              And that song from afar has swept over the world.                                                                                       Every hearth is a-flame, and the beautiful sing                                                                                             In the homes of the nations that Jesus is King!

We rejoice in the light, and we echo the song                                                                                               That comes down through the night from the heavenly throng.                                                                    Ay!  we shout to the lovely evangel they bring,                                                                                            And we greet in His cradle our Saviour and King!"    

THAT BEAUTIFUL NAME!

 Every Christmas, I like to recall this sweet little story from a Children's Christmas Program.  All the children had been given their parts, Mary and Joseph had been chosen, but the director wanted every child to have a part and be included, and she wasn't sure where she could use little David who, because of a learning disability, wasn't capable of learning a very long piece.  She finally decided he could be the Inn Keeper.  She instructed him that when Mary and Joseph came wanting a room, he was to say very sternly -- "Go Away!  There is No Room!"  He practiced until he could do it perfectly, and with great sternness! 

Finally, the night of the big program came!  Everyone was excited, but as the program began, it seemed a holy hush settled over the audience that took them back to Bethlehem the night that Jesus was born!  Mary and Joseph were very weary from traveling as they approached Bethlehem, and Mary was great with Child.  They stopped at the first Inn they saw, but there was No Vacancy!  The city was crowded with people who had come to pay their taxes.  Everywhere they stopped, the answer was the same -- No Room!

Finally, they came to the very last Inn, and Mary could go no farther!  When Joseph approached the Inn Keeper, little David remembered his line, and said quite sternly -- "Go Away!  There is No Room!"  Joseph tried to explain that Mary was heavy with child, and could not go on!  He humbly pleaded, almost begging for a room, but David was firm in his command -- "Go Away!  There is NO ROOM!"      At last, giving up hope, Joseph and Mary turned away and started very slowly and sadly back down the crowded street.  As little David watched them, suddenly he could stand it no longer!  His tender heart broke, and he ran after them, crying -- "Wait, Joseph!  Wait, Mary!  Come back!  Come back!  You can have MY room!"

God's Word says -- ". . . she brought forth her firstborn Son: and called his name JESUS."                            The songwriter said --

"I know of a name, a beautiful name, that angels brought down to earth;                                                    They whispered it low, one night long ago, to a maiden of lowly birth.                                                       I know of a name, a beautiful name, that unto a Babe was given.                                                                The stars glittered bright throughout that glad night, and angels praised God in heaven.

I love that blest name, that wonderful name, made higher than all in heaven.                                             Twas whispered, I know, in my heart long ago---to Jesus my life I've given.                                               That beautiful name, that beautiful name, from sin has power to free us!                                                    That beautiful name, that wonderful name, that matchless name is Jesus!"

This Christmas, have you given Jesus YOUR Room -- the Room of your heart?  "Jesus -- not just a part, or half of my heart -- I will give ALL to Thee!"  Amen!         

DOWN FROM HIS GLORY!

This Christmas, I am trying to comprehend even a fraction of what it meant, and what it cost, for Jesus to come DOWN -- DOWN from His Heavenly Father --  DOWN from the presence of the holy angels -- DOWN from the glory; the beauty; the wonder; the majesty of Heaven -- DOWN to the lowly stable -- DOWN to be born, not in splendor befitting a King, but as a lowly Babe with only the stable animals to welcome His birth!

No, I cannot begin to comprehend at this blessed Christmas time the glorious love of Christ, my Lord divine, that made Him stoop way DOWN to save a soul like mine!  But I am so very thankful to know at this holy Christmas time, Jesus came all the way "DOWN From His Glory" for you and for me!

"Down from His glory, ever living story, my God and Saviour came, and Jesus was His name.                     Born in a manger, to His own a stranger, a Man of sorrows, tears, and agony.                                                 What condescension, bringing us redemption; that in the dead of night, not one faint hope in sight,              God, gracious, tender, laid aside His splendor, stooping to woo, to win, to save my soul.

Without reluctance, flesh and blood His substance, He took the form of man, revealed the hidden plan.       O glorious mystery, sacrifice of Calvary, and now I know Thou art the great "I Am."                                     O how I love Him!  How I adore Him!  My breath, my sunshine, my all in all!                                              The great Creator became my Saviour, and all God's fullness dwelleth in Him."

  

LIGHT OF THE WORLD!

To me, one of the most beautiful things surrounding Christmas is the myriad of lovely lights all around us, dispelling the gloom and darkness; shining abroad for every eye to behold the delightful colors, the glowing and dazzling beauty of thousands of little white lights sparkling in the midst of other colors!  But then, what a drastic change when all of the bright, shining lights are extinguished!  The beautiful Christmas tree that was aglow with many lovely lights that made the ornaments sparkle, is suddenly rather dull, downcast, and drab looking!

I thought about that in relation to our spiritual experience.  Jesus said in Matthew 5:14 -- "Ye are the light of the world.  A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid."  He went on to instruct us in verses 15 and 16:  "Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.  Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."  There are multitudes of people sitting in spiritual darkness this Christmas!  Will they be able to see the light of Jesus shining in and through us?

"The whole world was lost in the darkness of sin; the Light of the world is Jesus.                                       Like sunshine at noon-day His glory shone in; the Light of the world is Jesus.                                          No darkness have we who in Jesus abide; the Light of the world is Jesus.                                                  We walk in the Light when we follow our Guide; the Light of the world is Jesus.

  Ye dwellers in darkness with sin-blinded eyes; the Light of the world is Jesus.                                           Go, wash at His bidding, and light will arise.  The Light of the world is Jesus.                                           No need of the sunlight in heaven we're told; the Light of the world is Jesus.                                            The Lamb is the Light in the city of gold; the Light of the world is Jesus.

  Come to the Light; 'tis shining for thee.  Sweetly the Light has dawned upon me.                                     Once I was blind, but now I can see.  The Light of the world is Jesus."  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                  

CHRISTMAS THOUGHTS!

On this Monday morning, as we begin a new week, will you take a few moments to ----

 REJOICE With Me - - -                                                                                                                                            "For unto us a Child is born, unto us a Son is given: and the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace."

SING With Me - - -                                                                                                                                                     "Jesus, Jesus, Jesus!  There's just something about that name!                                                                          Master, Saviour, Jesus!  Like the fragrance after the rain.                                                                                Jesus, Jesus, Jesus!  Let all heaven and earth proclaim:                                                                                    Kings and kingdoms will all pass away, but there's something about that Name"!

WORSHIP With Me - - -                                                                                                                                              "And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped Him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto Him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh."                                                                                                                             "Oh, come, let us adore Him.  Oh, come, let us adore Him.                                                                               Oh, come, let us adore Him, Christ the Lord."                                                                                                                                     

THE ANGELS SANG!

 As I begin this lovely Christmas season, I like to try and visualize the amazement of the lowly shepherds out in the fields watching over their sheep on that star-light night so long ago!  No doubt it was just another ordinary night as they sat around the fire warming themselves and sharing stories, when suddenly!!  a miracle happened, and they were sore afraid, for we read in the 2nd chapter of Luke

"And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.  And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.  And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people . . . . And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men."

It was, no doubt, this beautiful story in Luke's Gospel that inspired Charles Wesley to write the beloved Christmas hymn, "Hark!  The Herald Angels Sing."                                                                                        "Upon his conversion, Charles Wesley immediately began writing hymns, each one packed with doctrine.  He wrote constantly, and even on horseback his mind was flooded with new songs.  He often stopped at houses along the road and ran in asking for pen and ink.  He wrote over 6,000 hymns during his life.  Charles was 32 years old when he wrote this Christmas hymn, one of his best-loved hymns!  It was Charles' friend, evangelist George Whitefield, who published this carol in his collection of hymns in 1753."

"Hark!  The herald angels sing:  Glory to the new-born King!                                                                       Peace on earth, and mercy mild; God and sinners reconciled.                                                                     Joyful, all ye nations, rise;  Join the triumph of the skies;                                                                           With the angelic hosts proclaim, Christ is born in Bethlehem.

  Christ, by highest heaven adored; Christ, the everlasting Lord!                                                                  Long desired, behold Him come, finding here His humble home.                                                              Veiled in flesh the God-head see; Hail the incarnate Deity!                                                                        Pleased as man with men to dwell, Jesus, our Immanuel!

  Hail, the heaven-born Prince of Peace!  Hail, the Sun of Righteousness!                                                   Light and life to all He brings, Risen with healing in His wings.                                                                Mild He lays His glory by, born that man no more may die;                                                                       Born to raise the sons of earth, born to give them second birth.                                                                  Hark!  The herald angels sing, Glory to the new-born King."

I want to take time to hear the angels singing this Christmas!   And, who knows -- if  we will faithfully serve this new-born King in our little corner where God has placed us, we may hear the angels singing in the most unexpected places!!

                                                                  

 

  

CHRISTMAS IS LOVE!

If we were asked to define Christmas in one word, it would have to be LOVE, for John tells us in his wonderful gospel -- "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.  For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved."  It must have been the wonder of these verses that inspired Rev. J. M. Driver to write about the "Wonderful Story of Love."

"Wonderful story of love!  Tell it to me again.  Wonderful story of love!  Wake the immortal strain!             Angels with rapture announce it; Shepherds with wonder receive it;                                                               Sinner, oh, won't you believe it?  Wonderful story of love!

Wonderful story of love!  Though you are far away.  Wonderful story of love!  Still He doth call today!       Calling from Calvary's mountain, down from the crystal bright fountain,                                                        Even from the dawn of creation, Wonderful story of love!

Wonderful story of love!  Jesus provides a rest.  Wonderful story of love!  For all the pure and blest:            Rest in those mansions above us, with those who've gone on before us,                                                          Singing the rapturous chorus, Wonderful story of love!

Wonderful!  Wonderful!  Wonderful!  Wonderful story of love!" 

 

 

 

 

CHRISTMAS IS COMING!

 Today is the last day of November!  The Thanksgiving feast has been put away -- the Thanksgiving table linens and decorations have been put away, soon to be forgotten.  But let us be careful not to lay aside our thankful heart, but may we daily take time to "Enter into His gates with thanksgiving" and begin each day remembering (in spite of some sorrows and difficulties) how very blessed we are!  

As we turn our thoughts toward the blessed Christmas season, it is so easy for our minds to be filled with shopping lists, holiday baking, etc., that we almost forget that JESUS is the reason for this blessed season!  So I, personally, just feel a need as I view the world around me to spend more time at Jesus' feet, trying to comprehend a little of the love He had for you and me, that He would be willing to leave the splendor of heaven and be born as a lowly babe in a manger!

There is an old song in our hymnal, "In Life's Quiet Hours".  I don't remember ever singing it or hearing it, but the words have been speaking to my heart, and I trust that you will join me in having some "quiet hours" as we begin our journey to Bethlehem this year.

"Often while in meditation on His love so free, comes a message from my Father spoken just to me.              Or it may be I have struggled thro' some trial sore; when my struggling turns to trusting, Lo, the trial is    o'er.  Or perchance while I am waiting still on bended knee, comes a quiet revelation of His love for me.   At my work or in my closet---almost anywhere---if in quietness I listen, I find Jesus there.

In life's quiet hours I find Him waiting for my call.  It is there He meets me, greets me, holds me lest I fall."  Amen!  

THANKSGIVING EVE --

It is Thanksgiving Eve, so let us take a few moments before we get too involved with our cooking and preparations for tomorrow to reflect upon this glorious knowledge and "Know ye that the Lord He is God: it is He that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are His people and the sheep of His pasture.  Enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise: be thankful unto Him, and bless His name.  For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endureth to all generations." 

And let us sing from our hearts -- "Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow; Praise Him all creatures here below; Praise Him above, ye heavenly host; Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost."  Amen!

And from my home to yours -- "The Lord bless thee, and keep thee: the Lord make His face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: the Lord lift up His countenance upon thee, and give thee peace."

THE MONDAY BEFORE ---

It is Monday morning of Thanksgiving Week, and it just seems appropriate as we begin this special week to say with the Psalmist, "Let every thing that hath breath praise the Lord."  Amen!                         I agree with Martin Luther who said, "Next to Theology, Music is God's greatest gift to man!"  So I thought it might be a blessing to you to keep a song in your heart, and on your lips, throughout this Thanksgiving Week!  Perhaps you would like to begin and end your day by singing one of these wonderful hymns!

T -- Take Time to be Holy 

H -- Have Thine Own Way, Lord

A -- At Calvary

N -- Near the Cross

K -- King of My Life, I Crown Thee Now

S -- Standing On The Word

G -- Glory to His Name

I -- Is Your All On The Altar

V -- Victory In Jesus 

I -- I Have Settled the Question

N -- No Not One

G -- Glorious Freedom

May you sense the sweet presence of the Master as you Thank Him and Praise Him throughout this special week!!  God Bless You!                                                                                                                                

THANKSGIVING SUNDAY!

 As we look to the coming Lord's Day, Thanksgiving Sunday, it may be, for various reasons, that you will not be able to be in the house of the Lord!  But even though you may not be able to be present, physically, I am thankful that we can be together in spirit, and can lift our hearts in praise, and Thanksgiving, and worship to our wonderful Lord who has invited us to "enter into His gates with thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise -- to be thankful unto Him, and bless His name, for He is good: His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endureth to all generations."

And if you are not able, physically, to be in God's House this Thanksgiving Sunday, you can "Gather Together" wherever you are, lift your voice in praise to God and sing this beautiful Thanksgiving Hymn!  This hymn, "We Gather Together", was written sometime in 1597 to celebrate Holland's freedom from Spain.  Its author, an unknown Dutchman, was full of thanksgiving that his people were finally free from Spanish tyranny, and free to worship as they chose.  I trust it will bless and challenge your heart today!

"We gather together to ask the Lord's blessing; He chastens and hastens His will to make known;    The wicked oppressing now cease from distressing -- Sing praises to His Name: He forgets not His own.           Beside us to guide us, our God with us joining -- Ordaining, maintaining His kingdom divine;                     So from the beginning, the fight we were winning: Thou, Lord, wast at our side, all glory be Thine!

We all do extol Thee, Thou Leader triumphant, and pray that Thou still our Defender wilt be.                       Let Thy congregation escape tribulation; Thy Name be ever praised!  O Lord, make us free!"

And Jesus said in St. John 8:36 -- "If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed."             

GIVE THANKS!

It is a beautiful Wednesday morning, and I hope you have not forgotten that one week from tomorrow is Thanksgiving Day!  I'm so grateful that we have this National Holiday when we can lay aside the cares of life and just "give thanks"!  In the midst of very trying and difficult times in our nation, I think it is important that we take time to reflect on our many, many blessings and name them one by one!  You may be surprised to discover how blessed you really are!  In fact, you'll probably want to start singing---   

"I am blessed!  I am blessed!  Every day that I live, I am blessed!  When I wake up in the morning 'till I lay my head to rest--I am blessed!  I am blessed!"  I trust that you will join me this Thanksgiving week, and take some time to "Give thanks with a grateful heart; Give thanks to the Holy One; Give thanks because He's given Jesus Christ, His Son.  And now let the weak say, 'I am strong'!  Let the poor say, 'I am rich', because of what the Lord has done for us.  Give Thanks"!

The last five Psalms, 146-150, each begin and end with "Praise ye the Lord".  So as we begin this Thanksgiving week, let's take a Psalm each day and make sure we begin and end the day with praising our wonderful Lord!                                                                                                                                                 "Praise ye the Lord.  Praise ye the Lord from the heavens: praise Him in the heights.  Praise ye Him, all His angels: praise ye Him, all His hosts!  Praise ye Him, sun and moon: praise Him, all ye stars of light.  Praise Him, ye heavens of heavens, and ye waters that be above the heavens.  Let them praise the name of the Lord: for He commanded, and they were created.  He hath also stablished them for ever and ever: He hath made a decree which shall not pass.                                                                                                          Praise the Lord from the earth, ye dragons, and all deeps: fire and hail; snow, and vapours; stormy wind fulfilling His word: mountains, and all hills; fruitful trees, and all cedars: beasts, and all cattle; creeping things, and flying fowl: Kings of the earth, and all people; princes, and all judges of the earth: both young men, and maidens; old men, and children: let them praise the name of the Lord: for His name alone is excellent: His glory is above the earth and heaven.  He also exalteth the horn of His people, the praise of all His saints; even of the children of Israel, a people near unto Him.  Praise ye the Lord."   

SAIL ON!!

It was a blessed privilege to worship the Lord in His sanctuary on His Holy Day yesterday, but today is Monday, and perhaps you are facing a duty in which you see no way you can go forward.  We would like to see the difficulties removed before we have to pass through them!  It is sometimes easy to want to stand still and wait for the obstacle to be removed, when our Lord wants us to go forward as if there were no obstacles!  I have been thinking about this thrilling poem, and what a tremendous lesson of perseverance Columbus gave to the world in the face of tremendous difficulties!  I trust that it will be a blessing, challenge, and encouragement to your heart as you read it again today!

"Behind him lay the gray Azores, behind the gates of Hercules;                                                                   Before him not the ghost of shores, before him only shoreless seas,                                                           The good Mate said: 'Now we must pray, for lo! the very stars are gone.                                                    Brave Admiral, speak, what shall I say?'  'Why, say, Sail on!  Sail on!  and on!'

My men grow mutinous day by day; my men grow ghastly wan and weak!                                                The stout Mate thought of home; a spray of salt wave washed his swarthy cheek.                                      What shall I say, brave Admiral, say, if we sight naught but seas at dawn?                                                 Why, you shall say at break of day, 'Sail on!  sail on!  sail on!  and on!' 

They sailed.  They sailed.  Then spake the Mate: 'This mad sea shows its teeth tonight.                           He curls his lip, he lies in wait, with lifted teeth, as if to bite!                                                                      Brave Admiral, say but one good word; what shall we do when hope is gone'?                                          The words leapt like a leaping sword: 'Sail on!  sail on!  sail on!  and on!' 

Then, pale and worn, he kept his deck and peered through darkness.                                                           Ah!  that night of all dark nights!  And then a speck---A light!  A light!  A light!  A light!                        It grew, a starlit flag unfurled!  It grew to be Time's burst of dawn.                                                            He gained a world; he gave that world its grandest lesson:  'On!  sail on!'"

And this morning, dear friend, we are sailing, too -- sailing on and on through the storms of life -- and I believe the Good Captain of our souls would encourage us to day to make sure we've anchored in Jesus, and our anchor is holding firm and secure!

"Though the angry billows roll on my tempest driven soul, I am peaceful, for I know, wildly though the winds may blow, I've an anchor safe and sure, that can evermore endure.                                                  Mighty tides about me sweep; perils lurk within the deep; angry clouds overshade the sky, and the tempest rises high.  Still I stand the tempest's shock, for my anchor grips the Rock.

I can feel the anchor fast as I meet each sudden blast -- Through the storm I safely ride, till the turning of the tide.  And it holds, my anchor holds!  By His grace I shall not fail, for my anchor holds; my anchor holds!"  Praise the Lord!                                                                                        

                           

IT SEEMED GOOD ---

 It is a beautiful Friday morning, but many hearts and homes are experiencing sadness this morning because of illness and other heartaches.  I read a little story a couple of days ago that touched my heart, and I trust that it will bless and encourage you today.

"A visitor at a school for the deaf-mute was writing questions on the chalkboard for the children.  After a while, he wrote this sentence -- 'Why has God made me to hear and speak, and made you deaf-mute'?  The awful sentence fell upon the little ones like a fierce blow in the face.  They sat palsied before that dreadful 'Why'?  And then a little girl arose.  Her lip was trembling.  Her eyes were swimming with tears.  Straight to the board she walked, and, picking up the crayon, wrote with firm hand these precious words:

"Even so, Father, for so it seemed good in Thy sight!"  What a reply!  It brought tears to my eyes, and touched the heartstrings of my soul!  How sweet it is to know that the most mature saint, as well as the youngest child of God, may securely rest in the blessed truth that God is our Father!  I love this little poem by an unknown author -- 

"No chance hath brought this ill to me; 'Tis God's own hand, so let it be;                                                     He seeth what I cannot see.  There is a need-be for each pain,                                                                     And He one day will make it plain that earthly loss is heavenly gain.

Like as a piece of tapestry viewed from the back appears to be                                                                    Naught but threads tangled hopelessly; but in the front a picture fair                                                           Rewards the worker for his care, proving his skill and patience rare.                                                           Thou art the Workman, I the frame.  Lord, for the glory of Thy Name,                                                       Perfect Thine image on the same."

"O to be like Thee!  O to be like Thee,                                                                                                           Blessed Redeemer, pure as Thou art!                                                                                                           Come in Thy sweetness; come in Thy fullness;                                                                                           Stamp Thine own image deep on my heart."       

STEPS!

 STEPS!  We normally don't get too excited about them, unless it is a baby taking their first steps, or perhaps someone who has suffered an injury and is able to walk again.  But I remember not too long ago when someone figured out how to make a watch that would keep track of the number of steps you took each day.  Suddenly--numbers of people were all excited about wearing one of those watches to keep track of their steps--how many calories they were burning each day--etc., etc.!!  For some strange reason, I have not heard anyone say a word about all their steps, calories burned, etc. for quite some time!!

But on this beautiful fall morning, let's consider some other steps.  God's Word says in Psalm 37:23 -- "The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord: and He delighteth in his way."  Isn't that a lovely verse!!  It makes me happy to think that my Heavenly Father cares about my every step!  And in the book of Job it says that God counts all our steps!  Math was never one of my favorite subjects, but the Lord would have to be a marvelous mathematician for Psalm 147:4-5 says -- "He telleth the number of the stars; He calleth them all by their names.  Great is our Lord, and of great power: His understanding is infinite."

Astronomers estimate that at least 10 trillion trillion stars exist in the heavens, and God has counted and identified each one!  What a mighty God we love and serve!  And yet, Jesus said the very hairs of our head are all numbered!  So from the most massive star in the universe to the tiniest hair on our head -- our God has it all counted!  The prophet Jeremiah said -- "The host of heaven cannot be numbered, neither the sand of the sea measured."  In the 12th chapter of Hebrews it speaks about "an innumerable company of angels"; and in the book of Revelation, John tells us about "a great multitude, which no man could number."  So as I think about my steps today, I want to be careful to keep "Stepping in the Light"!

"Trying to walk in the steps of the Saviour, upward, still upward we'll follow our Guide.                               When we shall see Him, 'the King in His beauty', happy, how happy, our place at His side!                          How beautiful to walk in the steps of the Saviour, stepping in the light, stepping in the light!                        How beautiful to walk in the steps of the Saviour, led in paths of light!" 

MY SINS ARE GONE!

 Today is Monday, and I like to begin my week with a song!  Today my heart is singing an old song written by N. B. Vandall, and no matter what life may bring me this week, I want to keep singing and praising my wonderful Lord that "My Sins Are Gone"!

"You ask why I am happy, so I'll just tell you why -- Because my sins are gone;                                             And when I meet the scoffers who ask me where they are, I say, my sins are gone.                                        'Twas at the old time altar where God came in my heart -- and now, my sins are gone;                                   The Lord took full possession, the devil did depart, I'm glad my sins are gone.

When Satan comes to tempt me, and tries to make me doubt, I say, my sins are gone;                                    You got me into trouble, but Jesus got me out -- I'm glad my sins are gone.                                                    I'm living now for Jesus, I'm happy night and day, because my sins are gone;                                                 My soul is filled with music, with all my heart I say, I know my sins are gone.

They're underneath the Blood, on the Cross of Calvary,                                                                                   As far removed as darkness is from dawn;                                                                                                        In the sea of God's forgetfulness, that's good enough for me --                                                                         Praise God!  My sins are gone!"

And as you keep a song in your heart this week, don't forget                                                                               "He who steers the universe on its course is our Father, and He hears our prayers."                                                                        

                                                                                   

I WILL PILOT THEE!

 Today is Friday, and I still don't have a President, but I am so very thankful that "The King and I" are still walking down life's road together!

Yesterday, my heart seemed rather overwhelmed with the "cares of life", but in the midst of my thoughts within me, tears came to my eyes and my heart began to sing this beautiful song --

"Sometimes when my faith would falter, and no sunlight I can see --                                                              I just lift mine eyes to Jesus, and I whisper---Pilot me!                                                                                    Often when my soul is weary, and the days seem oh, so long --                                                                      I just look up to my Pilot, and I hear this blessed song!

Fear thou not, for I'll be with thee -- I will still thy Pilot be!                                                                            Never mind the tossing billows -- Take My hand, and trust in Me!

When temptations round me gather, and I almost lose my way --                                                                     Somehow, in the raging tempest, I can hear my Saviour say --                                                                        Fear  thou not, for I'll be with thee -- I will still thy Pilot be!                                                                            Never mind the tossing billows -- Just take My hand, and trust in Me!" 

And let us not forget this beautiful little quote --                                                                                                               "Faith is the bird that feels the light when the dawn is still dark."                                                                                                                        

LEAD ON ---

 Wednesday morning, and they have not announced the results for President of our United States!  And though I don't yet know the outcome of the election, I am so very glad and thankful I can say with the songwriter -- "Lead On, O King Eternal"!  This majestic hymn is actually a "regal prayer which has been sung at graduations around the world every year since 1887, when Ernest Shurtleff wrote it for his own graduation.  Ernest, twenty-six, was a student at Andover Theological Seminary when he envisioned his fellow seminarians marching for their diplomas singing a great prayer for God's guidance on the rest of life, and thus a great tradition was born."

"Lead on, O King Eternal.  The day of march has come;                                                                                  Henceforth in fields of conquest, Thy tents shall be our home.                                                                        Through days of preparation, Thy grace has made us strong;                                                                          And now, O King Eternal, we lift our battle song.

Lead on, O King Eternal, till sin's fierce war shall cease,                                                                                And holiness shall whisper the sweet Amen of peace;                                                                                      For not with swords' loud clashing, nor roll of stirring drums;                                                                        With deeds of love and mercy, the heavenly Kingdom comes.

Lead on, O King Eternal.  We follow, not with fears;                                                                                        For gladness breaks like morning wherever Thy face appears.                                                                        Thy cross is lifted over us; we journey in its light.                                                                                            The crown awaits the conquest; Lead on, O God of might."

I love this beautiful hymn, and it challenges me!  I don't want to be satisfied or content to stay where I am in my spiritual journey!  I want to always be digging deeper, and climbing higher, in the things of God!  And, "Now unto the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only wise God, be honour and glory for ever and ever.  Amen."  (I Timothy 1:17)   

A MIGHTY FORTRESS!

Yes, it's Monday -- but it is also November 2, 2020 -- the day before a very critical National Election which  I think all the world will be watching quite closely!  So before your stomach gets completely tied up in knots this morning, spend a few moments in the 46th Psalm which reminds us in the very first verse --"God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble."  Then get out your hymnal, and read again the words of the majestic hymn written so many years ago by Martin Luther -- "A Mighty Fortress Is Our God."

"We think of Martin Luther as a great reformer, Bible translator, political leader, fiery preacher and theologian!  But he was also a musician!  Martin grew up listening to his Mother sing.  He joined a boys choir that sang at weddings and funerals, and his volcanic emotions often erupted in song!              When the Protestant Reformation began, Luther determined to restore worship to the German Church.  He helped revive congregational singing and wrote a number of hymns.

Luther once wrote -- 'Next to the Word of God, the noble art of music is the greatest treasure in the world.  It controls our thoughts, minds, hearts, and spirits.  A person who does not regard music as a marvelous creation of God does not deserve to be called a human being; he should be permitted to hear nothing but the braying of donkeys and the grunting of hogs.'   This song, 'A Mighty Fortress', reflects his awareness of our intense struggle with Satan.  In difficulty and danger, Luther would often resort to this song".  I trust it will be a blessing to your heart today!

"A mighty fortress is our God, a bulwark never failing;                                                                                 Our helper, He, amid the flood of mortal ills prevailing.                                                                              For still our ancient foe doth seek to work us woe;                                                                                      His craft and power are great, and armed with cruel hate, on earth is not his equal.

Did we in our own strength confide, our striving would be losing;                                                              Were not the right Man on our side, the Man of God's on choosing.                                                            Dost ask who that may be?  Christ Jesus, it is He;                                                                                        Lord Sabaoth is His name, from age to age the same, and He must win the battle.

And though this world, with devils filled, should threaten to undo us;                                                        We will not fear, for God hath willed His truth to triumph through us.                                                        The prince of darkness grim---we tremble not for him; his rage we can endure,                                        For lo!  his doom is sure, one little word shall fell him!                                 

That word above all earthly powers---no thanks to them---abideth:                                                            The Spirit and the gifts are ours through Him who with us sideth.                                                              Let goods and kindred go, this mortal life also; the body they may kill:                                                      God's truth abideth still, His Kingdom is forever!"

Yes, on this pre-election day, "The Lord of hosts is with us; the God of Jacob is our refuge."                                                                                                                                                  (Psalm 46:11)                                                                            

   

WITHOUT FAITH ---

Today is Friday -- we are looking to the coming Lord's Day, if Jesus tarries, and I have a little question to ask you this morning -- "How is your faith"?  Someone has said -- "A faith that cannot be tested cannot be trusted."  And God's Word says in Hebrews 11:6 -- "But without faith it is impossible (it doesn't say difficult, but impossible) to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him."  What a thrilling and wonderful verse!  There are many other verses concerning faith in the 10th chapter -- (v. 22)  "Let us draw near with a true heart in full assurance of faith. . .".   (v. 23)  "Let us hold fast the profession of our faith. . .".    (v. 38)  "Now the just shall live by faith:"

Too often, I am afraid we become discouraged "in the battle for the Lord and right", fail to "keep on the Firing Line", and stop short of the victory God has for us!  Perhaps it would be good for us to take a little time in preparation for the Lord's Day to remember some examples of persistent faith found in God's Word.  ZACCHAEUS was a short man, but he wanted to see Jesus!  The crowd was so large that he could not get through---but he did not give up; he was determined to find a way!!  So he ran ahead, and climbed up into a sycamore tree!  And his persistence and effort was rewarded!!  Jesus saw him up there, and told him to come down because He was going to his house!!  Praise the Lord!  His faith, effort, and persistence was rewarded!    

BARTIMAEUS was blind, and he sat by the highway side begging.  He heard that Jesus of Nazareth was coming and began to cry out, "Jesus, thou son of David, have mercy on me."  Many in the crowd told him to hush and be still.  But he didn't care -- he was determined, and "cried the more a great deal, Thou son of David, have mercy on me."  And Jesus didn't go on by; He stood still, and commanded him to be called.  His persistence was rewarded, for Jesus said "Go thy way; thy faith hath made thee whole."  Amen!

My heart is always touched by the little unnamed woman who had suffered greatly for 12 long years with an issue of blood, and "had spent all her living upon physicians, neither could be healed of any."  She must have felt unworthy to let her presence be known to Jesus, for she "came behind him, and touched the border of his garment: and immediately, her issue of blood stanched.  And Jesus said, Who touched me?  And when the woman saw that she was not hid, she came trembling, and falling down before Him, she declared unto Him before all the people for what cause she had touched Him, and how she was healed immediately."  And Jesus said unto her, "Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace."

And don't forget the many heroes of faith listed in Hebrews 11:32-39.  Someone has said -- "God never permits affliction to come to His people without the design of improving their spiritual condition."  So let's keep on living by faith, digging deeper, climbing higher, growing in grace, looking unto Jesus, and just keep on praying till the light breaks through!  Amen!  

SETTLED FOREVER!

Today, when there are so many situations, difficulties, circumstances, etc., that would try to discourage us, hinder us, undermine our faith --  I am so very thankful for God's Holy Word which changeth never, and is a sure anchor for my soul!  The beautiful verse in Psalm 119:89 is such a sweet comfort to my soul this morning -- "For ever, O Lord, thy word is settled in heaven."  Praise the Lord!!

I read in a little devotional booklet recently that "this is the central verse in the longest chapter in the longest book in the Bible."  I think it is just thrilling and amazing that this little verse must surely be one of the greatest verses in the Bible as we try to comprehend the amazing news that the Word of God was eternally settled in the mind of God before the world was even created!

There are other verses in this marvelous Psalm that also stress the eternal validity of God's words -- "The righteousness of Thy testimonies is everlasting" (144) -- "Concerning Thy testimonies, I have known of old that Thou hast founded them for ever" (152) -- "Thy word is true from the beginning: and every one of Thy righteous judgments endureth for ever" (160).

In Isaiah 40:8, we read these blessed words -- "The grass withereth, the flower fadeth: but the word of our God shall stand for ever."  In I Peter 1:23, we see -- "Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever."  And Jesus, Himself, said in Matthew 24:35 -- "Heaven and earth shall pass away, but My words shall not pass away."  And in Matthew 5:18, we read these blessed words -- "Till heaven and earth pass, one jot or one tittle shall in no wise pass from the law, till all be fulfilled."

Praise the Lord for His glorious Word that never fails!  His glorious promises are eternal!  So let us "Buy the truth, and sell it not"!  (Proverbs 23:23)

NO ONE ----

 It is Monday -- our nation is in peril -- the world is raging -- friends and loved ones are hurting -- and we hear God's Word saying -- "Watchman, what of the night"?  And so, today ---

"I would love to tell you what I think of Jesus since I found in Him a friend so strong and true.    I would tell you how He changed my life completely; He did something that no other friend could do.                      All my life was full of sin when Jesus found me; all my heart was full of misery and woe.  Jesus placed His strong and loving arms around me, and He led me in the way I ought to go.

Every day He comes to me with new assurance; more and more I understand His words of live.  But I'll never know just why He came to save me, till someday I see His blessed face above.  No one ever cared for me like Jesus; there's no other friend so kind as He.  No one else could take the sin and darkness from me; Oh, how much He cared for me"!

And the sweetest part is -- He is no respecter of persons!  You may come to Him today!                  

COME ---

 COME -- only four letters, but what a sweet and lovely word it is!  I'm quite sure that your heart has been blessed and encouraged when you answered your phone to hear a friend say -- "Come over and join us."  Perhaps there have been other times when you were disappointed when you were not included because you did not qualify, and were unable to meet all of the requirements.  It blesses my heart to know that Jesus says -- "Come, Just as You Are"!

Ye who are troubled and burdened by sin, come just as you are.                                                                      Come to the Saviour, a new life begin.  Oh, come just as you are!                                                                   Deep in your heart sin has written its scar; come just as you are.                                                                    Though from your Father you've wandered afar, Oh, come just as you are!

Sinful and guilty, heartbroken and lost, come just as you are.                                                                          Think what your ransom on Calvary cost!  Oh, come just as you are!                                                              Naught of your goodness for sin can atone; Come just as you are.                                                                  Trust in the merit of Jesus alone, and come just as you are.

Come with your heartache, your sorrow and pain; come just as you are.                                                        No one has come to the Saviour in vain.  Oh, come just as you are!                                                                Come just as you are.  Oh, come just as you are!                                                                                              Turn from your sin, let the Saviour come in, and come just as you are."

And if you are unable to go to the house of the Lord on this coming Lord's Day, you need not despair!  Our Lord is present everywhere, and he is listening for you to call upon His Name!  He has extended to you a blessed and sweet invitation -- "Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest!"                                                                                                                                   

TELL IT TO JESUS!

 This morning, I am wondering --- "What did you put on when you got up this morning"?  I'm quite sure that you had many choices to pick from, but you had to make a choice -- a decision about your appearance to others.  Then I wondered -- "What did you put on for your spiritual clothing?"  The Apostle Paul, in the 3rd chapter of Colossians, tells us to put on bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering, forgiving one another, and letting the peace of God rule in our hearts!  This sounds like a beautiful and valuable wardrobe for us to put on!

As we look around us, I think it might be good for us to pick out "kindness" today!  The story is told of an old man who carried a little can of oil with him everywhere he went, and if he passed through a door that squeaked, he poured a little oil on the hinges.  If a gate was hard to open, he oiled the latch.  And so he passed through life lubricating all hard places, and making it easier for all those who came after him.  He refilled his can of oil when it became empty, and oiled the hard places he found.

Sadly, there are many lives that creak and grate harshly as they live day by day.  Perhaps you know someone that nothing ever seems to go right with them.  And, just maybe, the Lord wants you to take a can of oil with you, and be ready with your oil of gladness or thoughtfulness.  Just a word spoken pleasantly can leave sunshine on a sad heart!  

So, perhaps this little devotional thought can be summed up in this lovely little quote:                                                   "Give others the sunshine -- tell Jesus the rest."                                      

GOD'S WORD!

 Good morning!  What a beautiful day the Lord has made for us -- "He giveth us richly all things to enjoy."  In case you were unable to spend a little time in God's Holy Word before you left for work this morning, take a few moments on your lunch hour to meditate on these beautiful words from the 12th chapter of Isaiah --

"Behold, God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the Lord JEHOVAH is my strength and my song: He also is become my salvation.                                                                                                        Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation.  And in that day shall ye say, Praise the Lord, call upon His name, declare His doings among the people, make mention that His name is exalted.  

Sing unto the Lord; for He hath done excellent things: this is known in all the earth.  Cry out and shout; thou inhabitant of Zion: for great is the Holy One of Israel in the midst of thee." Amen!

And, remember also, that your afternoon will go much better if it is hemmed with prayer!  God bless you!

GOD'S PROVISIONS!

 I was reading a little daily devotional recently, and the writer listed seven beautiful titles ascribed to God in the New Testament.  I trust that they will be a blessing and encouragement to your heart as we begin another new week of living for Jesus!                                                                                              

1.  The God of LOVE -- All of us need love, and I John tells us that "God is love."

2.  The God of all GRACE -- God saves us by His grace, and then we are commanded in II Peter 3:18 to "grow in grace."

3.  The God of PEACE -- I am so thankful when we belong to the Lord our souls are filled with God's sweet and wonderful peace!  He is called "the God of peace" at least five times in the New Testament!

4.  The God of all COMFORT -- It is so sweet and blessed to know that our Heavenly Father "comforteth us in all our tribulation".  This enables and helps us to be able to provide comfort to others.

5.  The God of PATIENCE -- Many, many times as we journey through life, we find that we "have need of patience".  Our Lord has an abundant supply, for we read in the 15th chapter of Romans -- "Now the God of patience and consolation grant you to be like-minded one toward another . . ."

6.  The God of GLORY -- It was "the God of glory" who first called Abraham, for we read in the 7th chapter of Acts -- "The God of glory appeared unto our Father Abraham . . .and said unto him, Get thee our of thy country, and from thy kindred, and come into the land which I shall shew thee."  Praise the Lord!  I am so thankful that the God of Glory is still speaking today, and precious young people are answering His call to follow where He leads -- nothing sweeter can be known than full surrender to the perfect will of God!  And they will find as they trust and obey that Jesus will never be a disappointment!!  What a blessed joy and privilege to follow where He leads and pasture where He feeds!

7.  The God of HOPE -- Hope -- what a wonderful word!!  Let us heed the admonition in I Peter 1:13 as we walk with Jesus -- "Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, be sober, and HOPE to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ."