New Year ponderings

I expect many of you, especially at this time, are thinking about the year ahead and the years that have gone.

It is evident when we read the Scripture that no matter what we will face in 2023, the Lord has always been and will always remain faithful! This will give us a reason to rejoice when our outward situations seem far from favourable.

For many, there will be times in 2023 that are not happy, but I pray we know the blessings of the Lord despite the unhappy moments!

Keep remembering and clinging to our blessed Hope. We need Him!! 

A devotional by James Smith. I hope you are as encouraged by it as I have been.

 He Ever Lives!

"Therefore he is able to save completely those who come to God through him, because he ever lives to intercede for them!" Hebrews 7:25

He died for our sins, and rose again for our justification. He ascended to Heaven to plead our cause with his Father, and he ever lives at the right hand of the Majesty on high. This is a most delightful fact. It is full of comfort. It should often engage our minds. It should fill us with peace and joy.

"He ever lives," and while he lives — he LOVES his redeemed people. He cannot but love his people. They are part of himself. They are dearer to his heart than all other created objects. He lives to love them, and he loves to live for them. He loves them every moment. He loves them with a love . . .

as vast as infinity,

stronger than death,

as changeless as his nature,

and as lasting as eternity.

"He ever lives." And while he lives — he CARES for us. His thoughts are filled with his people's concerns. He cares for them all — and for all that concerns them. His care is incessant. It is . . .

a father's care, for his beloved family;

a husband's care, for his chosen bride;

a shepherd's care, for his valued flock.

He cares for their bodies. He cares for their souls. He lives to care for them, and will care for them while he lives.

"He ever lives," and while he lives — he WATCHES over us. His eye is ever upon us. Nothing can divert it from us. He never loses sight of one of his people for a moment.

No refiner ever watched his gold, during the process of purification, with such interest.

No mother ever watched over a sick child with such tender affection.

No husband ever watched over the desire of his eyes, in the article of death, with half such affection or concern, as Jesus watches over his people.

His eyes are upon the righteous, and his ears are open to their cries. He watches over them for good, to preserve, sanctify, and bless them.

"He ever lives," and while he lives — he PROVIDES for us. He knows our needs. He is well acquainted with all our circumstances. He is intensely interested in our welfare. He has the resources of time and eternity at his command. He is pledged to supply us. He never forgets his promises. He will not forfeit his Word. Our supplies are certain, for he lives to provide them, to impart them, and to bless them. Blessed thought! Jesus lives as Jehovah Jireh, as our constant, kind, and careful provider!

"He ever lives" and while he lives — he LISTENS to us. His ear and his heart are always open.

He hears . . .

the softest sigh,

the most suppressed groan, and

the silent breathings of the soul.

He catches every desire.

He knows every wish.

He bows to hear every prayer.

He loves to hear us call upon his name, and tell out our trials, troubles, and temptations unto him. Nothing delights him more, than to hear us pour out our hearts before him, plead his precious promises, and ask him in faith for the blessings we need.

"He ever lives" and while he lives — he INTERCEDES for us. This is his present employment. He uses all his influence for us. He pleads his precious blood — his perfect righteousness — his relationship to his Father — and the promises made to him in the everlasting covenant. What a mercy is this, that when our hearts are hard, our affections cold, and our spirits straitened — Jesus pleads for us. Yes, at this very moment, while the eye is passing over these lines — Jesus is presenting his nail-pierced hands, his opened side, and his thorn-crowned brow — for us!

In life, and all its trials;

in death, and its unknown sufferings;

in health, and its pleasures;

in sickness, with its weakness and pains;

in prosperity, with its allurements; and

in adversity, with its temptations —

Jesus ever lives to make intercession for us!

Precious pleader! I would put my entire cause into your hand, and leave all my affairs with you.

"He ever lives," and therefore we shall LIVE. His own words are, "Because I live — you shall live also" (John 14:19). He has united us with himself. We are really one with him. He is our life. He lives in us, and we live by him. Nothing can ever separate us from him. He is the vine — and we the branches. He is the head — and we are the members of his body. He has identified himself with us — and our concerns with his.

"He ever lives," and therefore we shall be JUSTIFIED. "Who is he who condemns? It is Christ who died, yes rather, who is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also makes intercession for us" (Romans 8:34).

Dying — he put away our sins.

Rising — he secured our release.

As Advocate — he carries our cause.

The sin he atoned for, is pardoned.

The righteousness he wrought, is imputed.

The people he represents, are justified.

Those justified by his obedience, are safe.

"He ever lives," and therefore we shall be SAVED. "For if, when we were God's enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! (Romans 5:10 ).

His death procured our release.

His resurrection, procured our justification.

His admission to Heaven, procured our acceptance with the Father.

His life of intercession secures our endless salvation.

He says of us, "They shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand!" His heart is set upon their salvation, and nothing short of this will ever satisfy him. He travailed in death for us — he rejoiced in our new creation — he is pledged to be ever with us — and he will keep us unto his eternal kingdom and glory. "He shall see of the travail of his soul, and be satisfied." He will present us to his Father at last, and say, "Here am I, Father, and the children which you have given me, not one of them is lost!"

Does Jesus ever live?

Then let your faith be strong.

Believe his Word.

Confide in his faithfulness.

Expect his blessing.

Look for his glorious appearing.

Wait patiently his time.

Does Jesus ever live? Then let your HOPE be lively. His Word is true. His heart is kind. His mercy is everlasting. His promises shall be fulfilled. Expect him . . .

to do as he has promised;

to give as you need;

to answer your prayers;

to guide you by his counsel, and

afterward receive you to glory.

Does Jesus ever live? Then let your COURAGE live. Hear him speak to his servant John, "Do not be afraid. I am the First and the Last. I am the Living One; I was dead, and behold I am alive for ever and ever! And I hold the keys of death and Hell!" (Revelation 1:17-18 ).

"He ever lives;" think of this truth!

In seasons of sorrow, it will console you;

under bereavements, it will support you;

in the prospect of death, it will animate you. 

(James Smith 1802-1862)

(found on the Grace Gems website)

#worldevangelismday22

 https://youtu.be/iKoQ-Al-NCc

Last year, Joe Kirby (off the kirb ministries on YouTube) declared "black Friday" to be a great day for anyone who wished to do so, to upload Christian content to YouTube. Several did share a testimony or something to tell others about the Saviour.

I didn't participate last year but the above is my contribution this year.

Some food for thought in a long encouraging article by James Smith.

 A Curious Meditation

As I was walking out for exercise in the fields one morning, having been pleading with God to give me some profitable subject for meditation — I suddenly fell into this train of thought, which I afterwards wrote down; and, as it may interest and profit some, it is here inserted.

There are three things which I especially desire:

more communion with God,

more likeness to the Lord Jesus, and

more usefulness to his Church.

There are three things which I deprecate:

the withering of my gifts,

the decay of my graces, and

to become useless in the Lord's vineyard.

There are three things which I dread:

that I should become a proud professor,

that I should become a lukewarm Christian, and

that I should fall into the hands of man.

There are three things which I sometimes wish for (but which God will never grant me on earth):

to be totally free from sin,

to be delivered from a daily cross,

and to be always happy.

There are three things which I feel sure of:

hatred by the world,

opposition by hypocrites, and

love by spiritual believers.

There are three foes which always oppose me:

the world,

the flesh, and

the devil.

There are three friends which will always stand by me:

a peaceful conscience,

the bride of Jesus, and

the Lamb of God.

There are three deaths which have been experienced by me:

a death in sin,

a death to sin,

a death to the law of God.

There are three lives which shall be lived by me:

a temporal life,

a spiritual life, and

an eternal life.

There are three things which burden me:

a body of sin and death,

the opposition I meet with, and

my own ingratitude.

There are three things which support me:

the Father's love,

the Son's redemption, and

the Spirit's work.

There are three things which are a sore trial to me:

an irritable temper,

a flippant tongue, and

self-love.

There are three things which bring strong consolation to me:

the open fountain of Christ blood,

the promises of God, and

the Savior's free invitation.

There are three things which are especially dear to me:

the Word of God,

the throne of grace, and

the ordinances of the Lord's house.

There are three things lacking in me:

perfect penitence,

entire resignation, and

fervent love.

There are three books which are very useful to me:

the book of nature,

the book of Holy Scriptures, and

the book of my own experience.

There are three teachers which are employed to instruct me:

the Holy Spirit,

a special providence, and

the rod of God.

There are three things which are manifested in me:

the nature of sin,

the power of grace, and

the faithfulness of God.

There are three things which would be greatly useful to me:

more humility,

spiritual wisdom, and

enlightened zeal.

There are three things which characterize me:

weakness,

poverty, and

sinfulness.

Yet, there are three things which may be seen in me:

Christ's strength,

God's grace, and

the Spirit's holiness.

There are three things which are feared by me:

a stiff neck,

a hard heart, and

a presumptuous spirit.

There are three things which are matter of joy to me:

the conversion of sinners,

that my name is written in Heaven, and

the glory to be given me at the appearing of Jesus Christ.

There are three things which must be renounced by me:

preconceived opinions,

worldly wisdom, and

natural religion.

There are three things which must be held fast by me:

the Word of truth,

my confidence in God, and

my profession of the gospel.

There are three things which are especially required of me:

to do justly,

to love mercy, and

to walk humbly with my God.

There are three things which are promised to me:

tribulation in the world,

sufficient strength in Jesus, and

eternal life at the end of my course.

There are three things which the Lord observes and approves in me:

the work of faith,

the labor of love, and

the patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.

There is a threefold deliverance which is effected for me:

from the dominion of sin,

from the present evil world, and

from my deserved doom.

There are three things which I would trample under foot:

unfounded prejudice,

vain distinctions, and

self-righteousness.

There are three things which I would aim at daily:

to exalt Christ,

to glorify God, and

to bring sinners to repentance.

There are three things which are still sure to me:

a rough road,

changing experiences, and

safety at last.

There are three things which are behind me:

a wicked life,

a broken law, and

the pit of destruction.

There are three things which are before me:

death,

perfect conformity to Jesus, and

eternal glory.

There are three things which are on my right hand:

Satan to resist me,

the Lord Jesus to save me, and

my own heart set on things above.

There are three things which are on my left hand:

the lust of the flesh,

the lust of the eye, and

the pride of life.

There are three things which I greatly admire:

the Savior's person,

the promises of God, and

the instruments he employs in carrying on his work.

There are three things which much please me:

the doctrines of the gospel,

the witness of the Spirit, and

the light of God's countenance.

There are three things which I delight in:

that Jehovah is my God,

the comfort he imparts to me, and

the riches of glory which are set before me.

There are three things which I hate:

the cant of hypocrites,

the flattery of friends, and

the pride of professors.

There are three things which are good for me:

to draw near to God,

to be afflicted, and

to sing praises unto the Lord.

There are three things which often disgust me:

Satan's temptations,

the powerful working of unbelief, and

the conduct of religious professors.

There are three things which are prescribed to me:

to believe in God,

to love the saints, and

to observe the Lord's ordinances.

There are three things which are too often neglected by me:

self-examination,

diligent reading of the Bible, and

secret prayer.

There are three things which are too deep for me to fully know:

the depravity of my heart,

the devices of Satan, and

the manner of the Spirit's working.

There are three things which I wish to leave with the Lord:

to choose my lot in life,

to fight my battles, and

to supply all my needs.

There are three things which I do not consider worth having:

a form of godliness, without the power,

a name to live, while dead, and

the commendation of the enemies of Christ.

There are three things in which I glory:

the cross of Christ,

my saving knowledge of God, and

the everlasting gospel.

There are three things which have been taken from me:

proud free will,

vain boasting, and

enmity to God.

There are three things which abide with me:

faith,

hope, and

charity.

I am made up of three men:

corruption — the old man,

grace — the new man, and

the body — the outward man.

I fill a threefold office:

a prophet in the Church of Christ,

a priest before the altar, and

a king anointed to reign with Christ.

I wear a threefold garment:

the righteousness of the Lord Jesus,

the graces of the Holy Spirit, and

the garment of humility.

I have been condemned in three courts — and yet justified in them all:

the court of conscience,

the Church of God, and

the court of God's justice.

I have been justified three times:

at the resurrection of Christ my substitute,

when faith received his righteousness, and

when good works justified my faith before the world.

I am the subject of a threefold sanctification:

by the purpose of the Father,

by the blood of the Son, and

by the cleansing operations of the Holy Spirit.

I am a free man of three cities:

the present world,

the church below, and

the Jerusalem which is above.

I have been an eye-sore to three parties:

the devil,

the world, and

envious professors.

I shall have occupied three peculiar seats:

a dunghill by nature,

among the princes in the Church by grace, and

the throne of glory by special privilege.

I shall have three grand holidays:

one when the Holy Spirit sets my soul at liberty,

another when death sets me free from this mortal clay, and

and another when Jesus comes to be glorified in his saints.

I shall then have appeared in three different characters:

a vile rebel against God,

a supplicating sinner at mercy's footstool, and

a justified son of God before his throne.

I shall have had three fathers:

a human father,

the devil, and

Jehovah himself.

I shall have received three laws:

the law of nature,

the moral law of God, and

the law of the Spirit of life.

I shall have passed through three gates:

the gate of hope,

the gate into Christ's sheepfold, and

the gate of death.

I shall have walked in three ways:

the broad road of destruction,

the highway of holiness, and

Jesus Christ the only way to the Father.

I shall have conversed with three distinct classes of beings:

carnal men,

spiritual Christians, and

the Lord himself.

I shall have made three appearances:

once all black — like the devil,

then speckled — with nature and grace, and

then all pure — whiter than the driven snow!

I shall have undergone three momentous changes:

one at regeneration — when I passed from death unto life,

one at death — when my soul shall be admitted into Heaven, and

one at the resurrection — when my body shall be raised powerful, glorious, and immortal.

I view three things as pre-eminently excellent:

the fear of the Lord,

a sound judgment, and

Christ formed in the heart, as the hope of glory.

There are three things which I may covet:

the best gifts,

a contrite and humble spirit, and

to be filled with all the fullness of God.

There are three things which are removed from me:

the burden of sin,

the wrath of God, and

all condemnation.

There are three things which I do not know:

what is before me,

how God will provide for me, and

what I shall be.

There are three things which I do know:

that in my flesh dwells no good,

that though I was once blind, now I see, and

that I must needs die.

There are three things which are prepared for me:

a fountain to cleanse me,

a robe to adorn me, and

a mansion to receive me.

There are three things which await me:

a crown of righteousness,

a palm of victory, and

a throne of glory.

There are three things which shall be done for me:

God shall wipe away all tears from my eyes,

God shall remove all cause of pain and sorrow from my nature, and

the Lamb in the midst of the throne shall eternally satisfy me.

There are three things which shall never be known by me:

the frown of divine justice,

the curse of holy Jehovah, and

the power of God's anger.

There are three things which are hurtful to me:

carnal ease,

the flattery of professors, and

fullness of bread.

There are three things which benefit me:

temptation,

affliction, and

opposition.

There are three things which are pursued by me:

to know more of the Lord,

to live in peace with all men, and

thorough sanctification.

Satan tries to thwart me in three things:

by spoiling my comforts,

hindering my usefulness, and

seeking to devour my soul.

Satan has three things to expect:

to be disappointed of his prey,

to be judged by the saints, and

to be eternally punished for his wickedness.

There are three things which I would never trust:

my own heart,

an arm of flesh, and

my treacherous memory.

There are three subjects which I should never meddle with:

the fall of the angels,

the origin of moral evil, and

how God will justify himself.

There are three things which I cannot understand:

the nature of God,

the cause of my election, and

how divinity and humanity constitute one person.

There are three things which I should often think of:

what I have been,

what I now am, and

what I shall be.

A threefold freedom is granted me:

from the law of God,

from the reign of sin, and

to make use of, and enjoy the Lord Jesus.

I am an heir of three worlds:

the natural,

the spiritual, and

the eternal.

There are three things which will never grieve me:

that I have been poor in this world,

that I have preached the gospel fully, and

that I am related to Jesus Christ.

There are three things which comprise all I wish:

to know God, and glorify him,

to see Jesus, and be like him; and

to be united to the saints, and be eternally happy.

There are three things which shall never be heard by me:

Christ reproaching me,

God disowning me, and

the devils triumphing in my everlasting destruction.

There are three things which shall be eternally enjoyed by me:

the love of God,

the presence of Jesus, and

the company of the saints.

There are three things which will eternally delight me:

to be filled with holiness,

to be employed in praising Jehovah, and

to have gained a complete victory over all my foes.

There are three things which must come down:

the pride of men,

the devil's kingdom, and

the cause of error.

There are three things which will stand:

the house built on the Rock,

the purpose of God, and

the Messiah's kingdom.

There are three things which cannot be removed:

the church of God,

the covenant of grace, and

the kingdom we receive.

There are three things which will stand the fiery trial:

genuine faith,

the Word of God, and

a real Christian.

Lost sinners are like Satan in three things:

their nature,

their employment, and

their end.

Three things make Hell:

the wrath of God,

the stings of a guilty conscience, and

black despair.

Three things prove a man a Christian:

worshiping God in the spirit,

rejoicing in Christ Jesus, and

having no confidence in the flesh.

Three things are never satisfied:

a doubting Christian,

a worldly miser, and

the man of pleasure.

Christ fills three offices:

a prophet — for the ignorant,

a priest — for the guilty, and

a king — for the depraved.

Christ has been in three states:

ancient glory,

deep humiliation, and

merited dignity.

What more shall I say!

If you, reader, are a sincere Christian — do three things daily:

search God's Word,

be much at God's throne, and

be diligent in God's work.

If you are an unconverted sinner — do three things immediately:

believe in the Lord Jesus Christ,

repent of every sin you have committed,

seek the witness and pledge of the Holy Spirit in your heart, so iniquity shall not be your ruin.

By James Smith 

(if you carried on reading this far, please let me know your thoughts.) 

This evening's poem and a George Muller quote that may have inspired the last line

 https://youtu.be/Qyx-7pk3tlY

Having Googled some sections of the poem, (to make sure I wasn't plagiarising), I remembered reading this quote from George Muller. I think it's lovely. 

"The precious Lord Jesus Christ is our friend. Oh, let us seek to realize this! It is not merely a religious phrase or statement, but truly He is our friend. He is the Brother ” born for adversity,” the one who “sticks closer than a brother.” Who will never leave and never forsake us.

How precious even on earth to have a heavenly friend, for this brings the joys of heaven in a little degree into our hearts now. This is just what our heavenly Father desires regarding His children, that they might be as happy as they are capable of being while here in the body. Have we entered into this, that the One who is “altogether lovely” is ready hour by hour, to be our Friend?

When we cannot sleep at night, say to Christ, ” My precious heavenly Friend, wilt Thou give me a little sleep?” When in pain, say, ” My precious heavenly Friend, if it may please Thee, wilt Thou take away this pain? But if not, if Thou sees better that it should continue, sustain, help, and strengthen me, my precious heavenly friend!” When we feel lonely and tired, turn to the precious Lord Jesus; He is willing to be our friend in our loneliness. For sixty-two years and five months I had a beloved wife, and now in my ninety-second year I am left alone. But I turn to my precious Lord Jesus as I walk up and down in my room, and say, ” My precious Lord Jesus, I am alone, and yet not alone, Thou art with me; Thou art my friend; now Lord, comfort me and strengthen me, give to Thy poor servant everything Thou sees he needs.”

Oh, this is a reality, not a fable, that the Lord Jesus Christ is our friend. We should not be satisfied till we are brought to this, that we know the Lord Jesus Christ experientially to be our friend and habitually to be our friend. Just ponder this. Habitually, never leaving, never forsaking us, at all times and under all circumstances ready to prove Himself to be our friend.

He is willing not merely to grant this for a few months, or a year or two, but to the very end of our earthly pilgrimage. David, in Psalm 23 says: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me.” Oh, how precious this is. For this “Lovely One” is coming again, and soon. Soon He will come again; and then He will take us home and there we shall be forever with Him. Oh, how precious is that bright and glorious prospect. Here again the practical point is to appropriate this to ourselves. “He is coming to take me-poor, guilty, worthless, hell-deserving me-He is coming to take me to Himself.” And to the degree in which we enter into these glorious things, the joys of heaven have already commenced!"

Some words of wisdom from A. W. Tozer

"We must meet the present emergency with a spirit of optimism. This is no time for repining, no time for looking backward, no time for self-pity or defeated complaining. We are on the winning side and we cannot lose. “Lo I am with you” makes ultimate defeat impossible.

Surely the days are evil and the times are waxing late, but the true Christian is not caught unawares. He has been forewarned of just such times as these and has been expecting them. Present events only confirm the long-range wisdom of Jesus Christ and prove the authenticity of the prophetic Word. So the believer actually turns defeat into victory and draws strength from the knowledge that the Lord in whom he trusts has foretold events and is in full command of the situation.

Let us beware allowing our spiritual comforts to rise and fall with world news or the changing political and economic situation. We who leaned Upon Jesus and Trust in the watchful love of a Heavenly Father are not dependent upon those things for our peace.

We have no desire to deny that the signs are ominous and the end is drawing near. But we refuse to get panicky, regardless... We must face today as children of tomorrow. We must meet the uncertainties of this world with the certainty of the world to come. To the pure in heart nothing really bad can happen. He may die, but what is death to a Christian? Not death but sin should be our great fear. Without doubt the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the earth and the works that are therein shall be burned up. Sooner or later that will come. But what of it? Do not we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new Earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness?

Surely this is not the time for pale faces and trembling knees among the sons of the new creation. The darker the night the brighter faith shines and the sooner comes the morning. Look up and lift up your heads; our redemption draws near.

A.W. Tozer 

Of God and Men - Maranatha! Glad Day!

How many bananas?

 Someone recently shared an account of how the Lord showed His faithfulness to one American Missionary to Indonesia who was imprisoned during World War Two.

Here’s the blurb from the book “Evidence Not Seen”:

“As a new bride, Darlene Deibler followed her veteran missionary husband to the jungles of New Guinea, where the two worked to spread the word of the gospel to tribes who had never before seen a white woman. When World War II erupted, Darlene and her husband, Russell, were forced to go to separate internment camps where both endured countless horrors and degradations. Never to see her husband again, Darlene’s faith never wavered despite test after test. “

(While she was in solitary confinement, Darlene found a small window overlooking the courtyard where other women were permitted to take air and exercise.)

This is how events unfolded as told by Darlene herself:

“The actions of one woman in particular fascinated me. Every time the sentry on duty turned his back to her and marched to the other side of the courtyard, she inched over toward a fence covered with Honolulu Creeper. When the guard clicked his heels, turned about, and began to stroll in her direction, she stopped. There he went, and there she went.

“Aha, intrigue. She’s going to make contact with someone who’s hidden in those vines. Isn’t this exciting! Oh, do be careful. With no books to read, I’ll watch the drama taking place here before my very eyes!” I empathised with her. I wanted her to succeed, and not to be caught. Finally, reaching the vine-covered fence, the woman stood very still. The guard clicked his heels and went off again. At that moment, I saw a hand shoot through the tangle of vine. It held a big bunch of bananas. Quickly she grabbed the bananas, slipped them into the folds of her sarong, and strolled nonchalantly back to join the other women. Nobody knew she had those bananas. But I did- bananas!

I dropped to the floor of my cell. Exhausted from my efforts, I shook all over. Worse still, I began to crave bananas. Everything in me wanted one. I could see them; I could smell them; I could taste them. I got down on my knees and said, “Lord, I’m not asking you for a whole bunch like that woman has. I just want one banana.” I looked up and pleaded, “Lord, just one banana.”

Then I began to rationalize- how could God possibly get a banana to me through these prison walls? I would never ask the guard. If he helped me and was discovered, it would mean retaliation. I would certainly never ask a favor of the Interrogator! There was more chance of the moon falling out of the sky than one of them bringing me a banana. Then I ran out of people. These three were the only ones. Of course, there was the old Indonesian night watchman. “Don’t let it even enter his thinking to bring me a banana. He’d be shot if caught.”

I bowed my head again and prayed, “Lord, there’s no one here who could get a banana to me. There’s no way for You to do it. Please don’t think I’m not thankful for the rice porridge. It’s just that- well, those bananas looked so delicious!”

What I needed to do was link my impotence to God’s omnipotence, but I couldn’t see how God could get a banana to me through these prison walls, even after the knife episode and my healing.

When the Japanese officers from the ships docked in Macassar Harbor visited the prison, great hardships were inflicted upon the prisoners. We were laughed at, scorned, and insulted. When the cells were opened, we were expected to bow low at a perfect 90-degree angle. If we didn’t perform to their satisfaction, we were struck across the back with a cane. These were humiliating and desperate experiences.

The morning after the banana drama, I heard the click of officer’s leather heels on the concrete walkway. The thought of getting to my feet and having to execute a bow was onerous, to say the least. My weight had dropped during those months in the converted insane asylum, until now I was skin drawn over bones. One nice thing about my streamlined proportions was that the thinner I got, the longer my dress became, so I had more covering at night. I stretched out my hands often and laughed at my “bird’s claws”. The meagre daily meals were not designed for putting on weight. I had been healed, but I needed food for strength. I wondered if I could manage to get to my feet and remain upright, but I was determined that when that door opened, they would find me on my feet.

The officers were almost at the door. I reached up, grabbed the window ledge, and pulled myself upright. “Now, Lord,” I prayed, “officers are coming. Give me strength to make a proper bow.” I heard the guard slip a key into the door, but he had the wrong one and ran back to the office to get the right key. I dropped to the floor to rest, then came to my feet again when I heard his tennis shoe-shod feet moving quickly down the walkway. My legs were trembling, and I clutched the bars of the window to steady myself. “Lord, please help me to bow correctly.”

Finally, the door opened, and I looked into the smiling face of Mr. Yamaji, the Kampili camp commander. This was early July, and it had been so long since I had seen a smiling or a familiar face. I clapped my hands and exclaimed, Tuan Yamaji, seperti lihat sobat jan lama, “Mr. Yamaji, it’s just like seeing an old friend!”

Tears filled his eyes. He didn’t say a word but turned and walked out into the courtyard and began to talk with the two officers who had conducted my interrogations. At roll call in Kampili, I had had to give certain commands in Japanese, but I had made a deliberate effort to learn as little of the Japanese language as possible. It was better not to know it. I couldn’t understand what Yamaji was saying – but he spoke with them for a long time. What had happened to the hauteur and belligerence with which those two always conducted themselves toward me? I could see their heads hanging lower and lower. Perhaps he spoke to them of my work as a missionary, or maybe he shared with them concerning that afternoon in his office after I had learned of my husband’s death, when I spoke of Christ, my Saviour, Who gives us love for others- even for our enemies, those who use us badly.

Finally, Mr, Yamaji came back to my cell.

“You’re very ill, aren’t you?” he asked sympathetically.

“Yes, sir, Mr. Yamaji, I am.”

“I’m going back to the camp now. Have you any word for the women?”

The Lord gave me confidence to answer, “Yes, sir, when you go back, please tell them for me that I’m all right. I’m still trusting the Lord. They’ll understand what I mean, and I believe you do.”

“All right,” he replied; then, turning on his heels, he left. When Mr. Yamaji and the Kempeitai officers had gone and the guard had closed the door, it hit me – I didn’t bow to those men! “Oh Lord,” I cried, “why didn’t You help me remember? They’ll come back and beat me (for not bowing). Lord, please, not back to the hearing room again. Not now, Lord, I can’t; I just can’t.” I heard the guard coming back and knew he was coming for me. Struggling to my feet, I stood ready to go. He opened the door, walked in, and with a sweeping gesture laid at my feet – bananas! “They’re yours,” he said, “and they’re all from Mr. Yamaji.” I sat down in stunned silence and counted them. There were ninety-two bananas!

In all my spiritual experience, I’ve never known such shame before my Lord. I pushed the bananas into a corner and wept before Him. “Lord, forgive me; I’m so ashamed. I couldn’t trust You enough to get even one banana for me. Just look at them – there are almost a hundred.”

In the quiet of the shadowed cell, He answered back within my heart: “That’s what I delight to do, the exceeding abundant above anything you ask or think.” I knew in those moments that nothing is impossible to my God.

After God assured me it was His delight to send me those bananas, my heart was salved, and it took all the character I possessed not to eat all ninety-two in one sitting. After months of meagre rations of rice porridge, I knew that to gorge could make me deathly ill, so I portioned out so many bananas per day, saving the greener ones for last. This was God’s provision, and strength began to flow into my body.

“Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies.” (Psalm 23:5)

I hope you are as challenged and blessed as I have been by this. 

22nd September excerpt from "Traveling toward Sunrise "

 "And they that know thy name will put their trust in thee: for thou, Lord, hast not forsaken them that seek thee." Psalm 9:10

Lord, give me faith! - to live from day to day,

With tranquil heart to do my simple part,

And, with my hand to thine, just go Thy way.

Lord, give me faith - to trust if not to know ;

With quiet mind in all things Thee to find, 

And child-like, go where Thou wouldst have me go. 

Lord, give me faith! - to leave it all to Thee, 

The future is Thy gift, I would not lift

The veil Thy love has hung 'twixt it and me.  

(by J. O) 

Lord, we would learn to trust in Thee at all times. We think we are trusting Thee when the sunlight falls unbroken and bright upon our way; but when the clouds gather and the storm breaks, our hearts faint and our faith loses its vision. May we have such faith as will feel Thee in the dark and walk calmly through the storm. We should learn when we are weary and fretful or tempted and discouraged to be still and know that Thou at God. May we cease our struggling and worrying and let Thee have Thy way with us until around our restfulness flows Thy rest. But may such rest renew our vigour that we may fight the good fight of faith and win the victory. Amen.

When obstacles and trials seem

Like prison walls to be, 

I do the little I can do, 

And leave the rest to Thee. 

(by F. W. F.) 

If you would like to listen to my latest Christian song...

 Here's the link :

https://youtu.be/AWUaCVVCFr8

A few quotes on which to muse from a Liverpool Bishop.

"Believe me, you cannot stand still in your souls. Habits of good or evil are daily strengthening in your hearts. Every day you are either getting nearer to God, or further off. Every year that you continue unrepentant, the wall of division between you and heaven becomes higher and thicker, and the gulf to be crossed deeper and broader. Oh, dread the hardening effect of constant lingering in sin! "

From J. C. Ryle's "Thoughts for young men".

(In which authority do you trust? Man's opinion or God's Word?)

Are you guilty or innocent?

 I heard most of this story earlier today and thought it was powerful so wanted to share.

 God is willing to forgive, cleanse and save all who call to Him in truth, recognising their need of Him.

CHRIST SAVES.

D. L. Moody in Prison. 

I have good news to tell you--Christ is come after you. I was at the Fulton-street prayer-meeting, a good many years ago, one Saturday night, and when the meeting was over, a man came to me and said, "I would like to have you go down to the city prison to-morrow, and preach to the prisoners. I said I would be very glad to go. There was no chapel in connection with that prison, and I was to preach to them in their cells. I had to stand at a little iron railing and talk down a great, long narrow passageway, to some three or four hundred of them, I suppose, all out of sight. It was pretty difficult work; I never preached to the bare walls before. When it was over I thought I would like to see to whom I had been preaching, and how they had received the gospel. I went to the first door, where the inmates could have heard me best, and looked in at a little window, and there were some men playing cards. I suppose they had been playing all the while. "How is it with you here?" I said. "Well, stranger, we don't want you to get a bad idea of us. False witnesses swore a lie, and that is how we are here." "Oh," I said, "Christ cannot save anybody here; there is nobody lost." I went to the next cell. "Well, friend, how is it with you?" "Oh," said the prisoner, "the man that did the deed looked very much like me, so they caught me and I am here." He was innocent, too! I passed along to the next cell. "How is it with you?'" "Well, we got into bad company, and the man that did it got clear, and we got taken up, but we never did anything." I went along to the next cell "How is it with you?" "Our trial comes on next week, but they have nothing against us, and we'll get free." I went round to nearly every cell but the answer was always the same--they had never done anything. Why, I never saw so many innocent men together in my life. There was nobody to blame but the magistrates, according to their way of it. These men were wrapping their filthy rags of self-righteousness about them. And that has been the story for six thousand years. I got discouraged as I went through the prison, on, and on, and on, cell after cell, and every man had an excuse. If he hadn't one, the devil helped him to make one. I had got almost through the prison, when I came to a cell and found a man with his elbows on his knees, and his head in his hands. Two little streams of tears were running down his cheeks; they did not come by drops that time.

"What's the trouble?" I said. He looked up, the picture of remorse and despair. "Oh, my sins are more than I can bear." "Thank God for that," I replied. "What," said he, "you are the man that has been preaching to us, ain't you?" "Yes." "I think you said you were a friend?" "I am." "And yet you are glad that my sins are more than I can bear!" "I will explain," I said "If your sins are more than you can bear, won't you cast them on One who will bear them for you?" "Who's that?" "The Lord Jesus." "He won't bear my sins." "Why not?" "I have sinned against Him all my life." "I don't care if you have; the blood of Jesus Christ, God's Son, cleanses from all sin." Then I told him how Christ had come to seek and save that which was lost; to open the prison doors and set the captives free. It was like a cup of refreshment to find a man who believed he was lost, so I stood there, and held up a crucified Saviour to him. "Christ was delivered for our offenses, died for our sins, rose again for our justification." For a long time the man could not believe that such a miserable wretch could be saved. He went on to enumerate his sins, and I told him that the blood of Christ could cover them all. After I had talked with him I said, "Now let us pray." He got down on his knees inside the cell, and I got down outside, and I said, "You pray." "Why," he said, "it would be blasphemy for me to call on God." "You call on God," I said. He knelt down, and, like the poor publican, he lifted up his voice and said, "God be merciful to me, a vile wretch!" I put my hand through the window, and as I shook hands with him a tear fell on my hand that burned down into my soul. It was a tear of repentance. He believed he was lost. Then I tried to get him to believe that Christ had come to save him. I left him still in darkness. "I will be at the hotel," I said, "between nine and ten o'clock, and I will pray for you." Next morning, I felt so much interested, that I thought I must see him before I went back to Chicago. No sooner had my eye lighted on his face, than I saw that remorse and despair had fled away, and his countenance was beaming with celestial light; the tears of joy had come into his eyes, and the tears of despair were gone. The sun of Righteousness had broken out across his path; his soul was leaping within him for joy; he had received Christ as Zaccheus did--joyfully. "Tell me about it," I said. "Well, I do not know what time it was; I think it was about midnight. I had been in distress a long time, when all at once my great burden fell off, and now, I believe I am the happiest man in New York." I think he was the happiest man I saw from the time I left Chicago till I got back again. His face was lighted up with the light that comes from the celestial hills. I bade him good-by, and I expect to meet him in another world.

Can you tell me why the Son of God came down to that prison that night, and, passing cell after cell, went to that one, and set the captive free? It was because the man believed he was lost. 

Another song

 https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=CHJUtUewPMo

Latest song: Abundant Mercy

 Abundant mercy, praise His Name,

For His gift we don't deserve.

Glorious salvation, through His blood.

God has been so good to us!

Obey His statutes, keep His Word,

In your life, He'll be glorified.

Choose to walk His way, He will give you strength, 

Rejoice in Him all your days. 

Beloved, accepted, child of God,

By His Grace, He has set you free

So be diligent to be found in peace

By the Lord Who reigns over all.

Reserved in Heaven, kept for us;

An inheritance undefiled.

He has granted us this living hope.

Blessed be our Heavenly King!

Thinking of Heaven

 "Heaven is a wonderful place

Filled with Glory and Grace

I want to see my Saviour's face

Heaven is a wonderful place."

(written by Debby Kerner & Ernie Rettino)

 I remember hearing this chorus as a child and singing along. I think it means more to me now than it did then. 

I'm also looking forward to seeing again the faces of the dear saints I knew and loved who are already experiencing the joy of seeing the Lord Jesus Christ face to face. 

As I looked through many references about Heaven, I was encouraged. 

He is the One who keeps us and has reserved a place for us. 

(I had only heard this partially quoted previously; I'm glad I found the fuller version as I find it encouraging and hope you do too.) 

There are many things we don't know, but we do know that Heaven is wonderful. How could it not be when we remember Who created it? His Name is Wonderful so everything He does must also be wonderful! (even though it might not always feel like that to us at the time. When we reach that land of pure delight we will thank Him as we realise the things we couldn't understand down here and recognise He led us every step of the way. How we need His grace and mercy daily!) 

The thing that most stood out to me as I looked through the verses, was the paradox of Heaven being the Lord's dwelling place when the Universe / Heaven of Heavens cannot contain Him. Also, how amazing that He condescended to dwell on this earth with us and offers us the way to share this bliss of Eternal Glory with Him!! 

I didn't include the descriptions given in Revelation; the Water of Life, the bountiful fruit trees, the pearly gates, the golden streets, and the other precious gems. 

These will all be outshone by the radiance of the Glory of the Lord. 

When the things of this life are taking up too much headspace, I like to reread the last 3 chapters of Revelation to remind myself of these truths. The Lord Jesus is returning for His people soon! And Heaven will be infinitely more amazing than my mind can think!

We who have trusted the Lord for salvation will be with the Lord, the angels, and the saints forever! It will be so glorious! I need to make sure I'm living ready! 

I'm so glad of the reminders that it is all by His grace as none of us could ever hope to earn a place in Glory. The Lord Jesus Christ has done everything necessary! We just need to trust, love and thank Him! 

As I was writing this, this verse came to mind... "Nevertheless do not rejoice in this, that the spirits are subject to you, but rather rejoice because your names are written in heaven.” Luke 10:20. I think that's definitely worthy of rejoicing, don't you? 

I'll close with these, 2 of my favourite passages from the last 2 chapters. 

I hope they bless you as they do me! 

"And God will wipe away every tear from their eyes; there shall be no more death, nor sorrow, nor crying. There shall be no more pain, for the former things have passed away.” Then He who sat on the throne said, “Behold, I make all things new.” And He said to me, “Write, for these words are true and faithful.” And He said to me, “It is done! I am the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. I will give of the fountain of the water of life freely to him who thirsts. He who overcomes shall inherit all things, and I will be his God and he shall be My son." Revelation 21:4-7. (BTW, I composed this blog last week and these verses have cropped up 3 or 4 times since then.) 

"And there shall be no more curse, but the throne of God and of the Lamb shall be in it, and His servants shall serve Him. They shall see His face, and His name shall be on their foreheads. There shall be no night there: They need no lamp nor light of the sun, for the Lord God gives them light. And they shall reign forever and ever. Then he said to me, “These words are faithful and true.” And the Lord God of the holy prophets sent His angel to show His servants the things which must shortly take place. “Behold, I am coming quickly! Blessed is he who keeps the words of the prophecy of this book.” Revelation 22:3-7.

An old hymn by Joseph Swain

I came across part of this lovely old hymn in a book I'm re-reading. 

I don't recall noticing it very much last time. I'm very glad I looked it up this time. 

(Most versions I found had been altered and only 3 verses.) Have you come across it before? 

I hope you are also encouraged by it. 

 

Some thoughts...

 

When I read this verse, it challenged me. 

Do I actually wait on Him continually?

Waiting implies that sometimes I will have to be patient. Do I struggle to submit to the Lord patiently? 

Am I listening moment by moment for His voice? Or do I too often allow other voices to crowd my mind so hearing His voice is more difficult? 

I found the first phrase encouraging. 

It is only by His help that I can do anything! If I try to do things without His help, I will fail, but when He directs, He also gives the wherewithal to accomplish the task.

What a great blessing it is to have His promises and to know He is holding us every step of the way. Nothing escapes His notice. He sees and knows what is around each corner. If we will simply trust Him and wait on Him continually, He will guide us safely home, no matter what unexpected hills or valleys we may have to traverse. He is so gracious and merciful and His way really is the best way.

These words of an old chorus came to my mind last week:

 "I want God's Way to be my way as I journey here below,

For there is no other highway for the child of God to go.

Though the way be steep and rough,

If He leads me, that's enough,

I want God's Way to be my way every day."

Heavenly Father, please help me to choose continually waiting on You. I thank You that Your plan is best (even when it might not always feel like it to me at the moment.) As I read Your Word, I see so many times that You have always been faithful and You never change! Father, I thank You for Your great lovingkindness. In Jesus's name I pray. Amen.

Time for some encouraging reminders.

 Keep thine eye simply on Him; let His death, His sufferings, His merits, His glories, His intercession, be fresh upon thy mind; when thou wakest in the morning look to Him; when thou liest down at night look to Him. Oh! let not thy hopes or fears come between thee and Jesus; follow hard after Him, and He will never fail thee.

Charles Spurgeon

I thought these were rather good encouraging reminders. 

How blessed we are who accept the Lord's wonderful offer of grace and mercy!

How much He loves those He bought with His own blood!