Messages of God's Love: 1938

In a happy home, with loving parents, and all that could make their young lives happy, lived Alice and Mary W. Life seemed so bright to them, as they played among the flowers and trees in the garden, or sat by their mother’s side in the winter evenings, while she read or talked to them, that they scarcely ever thought of the possibility of any change coming to cloud their happiness.

Their mamma and papa often spoke to them of Jesus; how He came to die for His people’s sins, and might soon come again to take them to Himself, and Alice and Mary knew all about it, and could answer any questions that were asked them, very readily.

But it was only in their heads they knew it. Their hearts were untouched, and they would run away to play, and forget all about it.

One afternoon Mr. and Mrs. W. were obliged to go out, and, as they said “goodbye” to their little girls, they said they would be back by tea-time. The children played about merrily through the afternoon, and as tea-time came on, they placed themselves at the gate to watch for their parents.

An hour passed but there was no sign of them: and a servant came out to bid them come in to tea. They went in and sat down, but they did not care to eat or to talk. At last little Mary said,

“O, Alice, do you know what I have been thinking? supposing Jesus has come, and papa and mamma have gone, and we are left behind!”

“I was thinking the same thing, Mary; O! what shall we do? If Jesus has come, it is too late for us, we shall never see them anymore; what can we do?” Alice burst into tears.

“Let us see if we can find anyone to tell us,” said Mary. And the two children put on their hats, and opening the gate, went down the road.

The first person they met was a woman, who only stared at them in answer to their questions, and said she did not know what they meant.

“O,” said Mary, “she does not know anything about the Lord Jesus; He must have taken all the people who do know.” And their tears began to flow afresh.

You can imagine how much delighted they were, when a few minutes afterwards, they caught sight of their papa and mamma driving towards them. They had been detained in town, but had come home as soon as possible.

Alice and Mary never forgot that evening’s lesson; it was the means in God’s hands, of bringing them to Himself; and may you never forget it till you can sing with them,

“I am now a child of God,

For I’m washed in Jesus’ blood.”

“The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God; and the dead in Christ shall rise first, then we which are alive and remain, shall be caught up together with them in the air, and so shall we ever be with the Lord.” 1 Thessalonians 4:16,17.

And those who are not in Christ, dead or alive, will be left behind.

Dear children, have you ever thought what this means, and what it will be, if those you love were taken, and YOU were left, with nothing in prospect but the judgment, the undying worm, the quenchless fire?

“They that were ready went in with Him to the marriage: and the door was shut.” Matthew 25:10.

ML 01/02/1938

"Who Hath Created These Things"

As we look at this wonderful scene of God’s creation, how we are made to realize Luis greatness and glory!

As you look at such a picture, or as you witness such a scene, do your thoughts go out to Him whose hand has formed it all?

“In His hand are the deep places of the earth; the strength of the hills is His also. The sea is His, and He made it: and His hands formed the dry land.” Psalms 95:4,5.

“O COME, LET US WORSHIP AND BOW DOWN: LET US KNEEL BEFORE THE LORD OUR MAKER, FOR HE IS OUR GOD.” Psalms 95:6,7.

ML 01/02/1938

Two Mountains in Canaan

Deuteronomy 27 and 28

It shall be...when ye shall pass over Jordan unto the land. which the Lord thy God giveth thee, that thou shalt set up, great stones, and plaster them with plaster ... ye shall set up these stones...in Mount Ebal... And thou shalt write upon the stones all the words of this law very plainly.”

Mt. Ebal is near the center of Canaan and across a narrow valley is Mt. Gerizim.

Moses told the people that all should gather there, six tribes on one mountain side and six on the opposite mountain side.

Then he told them that men on Mt. Ebal should read to them very loudly the words of the law; and afterward, men on Mt. Gerizim should read how God would bless them with all good things if they kept His words: then men on Mt. Ebal should read how they would have sorrows and be sent out of their good land if they would not do the right; these are called “curses.” And the people were to answer “Amen”, which means that they agreed that all read was true.

God warned them much not to make or bow down to idols. Yet there are people with these words in their Bibles who pray before images.

All God’s laws show that He cared about their homes, food, clothes and friends; and that He wished them to be kind to one another, to the poor, and the stranger. Even the little ones were to listen to His Words.

Some rules were only for Israel, yet we too, may dishonor God in everyday things, as perhaps many have never read the verse which says a woman should not dress like a man, nor a man like a woman, yet it is a truth not changed for the Christian. Deuteronomy 22:5. “The Word is nigh unto thee in thy mouth, and in thy heart that thou mayest do it.” Deut. 30:14; Rom. 10:8.

ML 01/02/1938

All Things Are Ready

All things are ready now,

The Sacrifice has bled,

The thorns have pierced the royal brow,

Of Jesus’ sacred head.

All things are ready—yes,

The Substitute has died,

He bore our sins upon the cross;

By faith we’re justified.

All things are ready—come,

Why tarry longer now,

Uncertain of a future home,

Our God would fain endow?

All things are ready—but

Your time may soon be o’er,

The Gospel door of mercy shut,

For you to ope no more.

All things are ready—come,

Before it be too late,

Let not reluctance seal your doom,

In sad perdition fate.

All things are ready—come,

Come to the Gospel Feast,

O, come today, while yet there’s room,

And be forever blest.

ML 01/02/1938

Kindness

I wonder who owns these animals? It must be some very kind man for they seem to be eagerly waiting in a group for him.

The big dog is holding the whip in his mouth, so his master is surely about ready to start on a drive. How interesting it is to see the clogs so anxious to be with their owner; they would not care to be near him if he were unkind to them. We read in the Scriptures,

“A righteous man regardeth the life of his beast.” Prov. 12;10. How can a Christian man or woman, boy or girl, be unkind to any person, or any of God’s creatures, when they realize each day how much God is doing for them?

Let us think often of Jesus and His grace to us in forgiving our sins.

“O, THAT MEN WOULD PRAISE THE LORD FOR HIS GOODNESS, AND FOR HIS WONDERFUL WORKS TO THE CHILDREN OF MEN!” Psalms 107:8.

ML 01/09/1938

When Boys and Girls Are Like Stars

I expect you have many times been out on a clear, dark night, and as you have walked along you have looked up at the stars. Perhaps as you have been looking up you have seen a bright star run along the sky and then disappear. Do you know what it was? “Yes!” I think I can hear some bright boy answer; “It was a shooting star.” Quite right, but what is a shooting star?

Perhaps I had better try and explain. All stars, like our earth, have an orbit of their own in which they move. Sometimes, for reasons which we do not know, some of these stars get out of their path. As they wander round in space they get into the track of our earth, and are attracted toward her by the force of gravitation. The speed with which they travel is so tremendous that as they touch the atmosphere which surrounds our earth they are set on fire. The bright object which we see traveling across the sky is this blazing star falling to the earth.

Usually they are all burnt up, but I have a few pieces of brown looking stone, which are the remains of some of these shooting stars. The terrific force with which they struck the earth had carried them down through the soil, until their progress was stopped by the hard rock beneath.

In the Epistle to Jude we read of “wandering stars, to whom is reserved the blackness of darkness forever.”

Now that is just like some boys and girls, and grown-up people too. God intended them to be like stars, and lead bright, happy, useful lives for Him; but instead of that, they have got out of God’s way, into the ways of sin.

“The ways of sin” (Rom. 6:23) lead down to the tomb, to the “blackness of darkness forever” (Jude 13). God’s way leads up to where we “shall shine as stars” in His crown for all eternity (Dan. 12:3).

Unlike the stars, we have to choose our way for ourselves, but we must choose, we cannot drift. If we are not in God’s way, then we are out of our course, like a wandering star. May God help each one who reads this to choose the way of life.

ML 01/09/1938

How Robert Got His Dog Back

Robert Black, a seven-year-old boy had a dog named “Queenie.” One day the “dog-catchers” got her, and carried her away to the pound; for, sad to say, she had no license-tag. My boy—readers know what an exciting day it is when the dog-catchers come around, especially if you happen to have a pet without a tag.

The cost of a license was $3.00, which must be paid before his dog could go free. Robert had no money, but he loved Queenie, and he must get her out some way. It was nearly three miles to the dog-pound, and he walked all the way. Finding a stray dog, he took him along, and asked the Superintendent to exchange Queenie for him. His idea seemed to be that “a dog was a dog,” and that the demands of justice would be satisfied by giving, one for the other. But the strange dog must account for his own tagless condition, and instead of being accepted in Queenie’s place was subject to his own penalty.

That will help you to understand how that none of us human beings “can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom. for him” (Psa. 49:7.) We could not take another’s punishment, because we deserve punishment for our own sins.

When Robert was allowed to see Queenie “behind the bars,” the boy broke into tears, and his pet “carried on something furiously,” according to the newspaper account. Mr. P., the Superintendent, is seven times seven years old, and he loves boys and dogs. He felt something tugging at his heartstrings. Once upon a time, when he was a boy, he lost his dog, and a man helped him find it again. He offered to pay the $3.00 for a license for Queenie out of his own pocket, and you can imagine how Robert’s eyes glistened with smiles through the tears.

The Superintendent, being free from the law against stray dogs, could redeem Queenie at his own expense.

In the same way, the Lord Jesus, the Son of God, “holy, harmless, undefiled, and separate from sinners,” gave Himself a ransom for us, and God can now be “just and the justifier of him that believeth in Jesus.”

Queenie had three puppies, which Robert said he would sell for $1 each, and then return and pay back the $3, but Mr. P. said it was worth that much to see the boy happy with his dog again.

Queenie must be redeemed as a free gift from the Superintendent, or not at all. So there is nothing that you and I need to do for our salvation, and if we tried to do or give something, it would not be accepted. We must accept salvation as a free gift from the Lord Jesus, who paid the penalty in full. And it makes Him very happy when a boy or girl trusts Him and gets saved. It is a happy time both in heaven and on earth.

Really, it strikes me that we are all very much like that dog. Because of our sins, we are all condemned, and not entitled to life under the eyes of the law. In the case. of Queenie it was not that she had bitten anybody, but she was not redeemed. And the main question before God is not whether you have sinned much or little, but whether you have accepted the redemption that is in Christ Jesus. She was not protected by the tag, and therefore not entitled to live. So “he that believeth not, is condemned already” (John 3:18).

If you are not protected by His precious blood, judgment, like the dog-catcher, is on your track. Indeed, you are like Queenie who was allowed to live a few days in the pound instead of being put to death at once, to give her a chance to be redeemed; for it is only the grace of God that you have been spared to this day that you might have another opportunity to receive the free gift of eternal life.

Mr. P, the Superintendent, acted very much like the Lord Jesus on this occasion. He was the agent of justice and must fulfill the demand of the law; yet his heart was full of love and kindness, and he willingly paid the penalty himself so that the law could be satisfied, and the dog go away with her master.

How remarkably this reminds us of Him who was once here on earth, a boy and then a man, and who loves boys and girls (and older folks too) so much that He paid the price with His own blood to satisfy a holy God about our sins and set us free. How happy He will be, and you too, if you will now accept His free gift of pardon and eternal life.

“Redeemed...with the precious blood of Christ.” 1 Peter 1:19.

ML 01/09/1938

Little Harold and the Snow

Little Harold lay on his couch by the window watching the failing snow.

“Mother,” he said, “do you know why the snow has come?”

“No,” she answered.

“Jesus sent that snow,” said Harold, “to show me that I am whiter than snow, washed from my sins in His Blood.”

Harold used to be very fond of going to Sunday school, he loved to hear God’s Word, and to sing hymns, but he had a bad fall some time ago, and now he cannot leave his couch. He is only nine years old, but he is waiting for the Lord to call him home to heaven.

He said one day, “Mother, it has been a rough road these months past, but heaven is at the end of it.”

He has given little keep-sakes to his brothers, and painted a ship for his mother, “And when I am gone,” he said, “do give my playthings to some little children who have nothing to play with; don’t put them up in the cupboard, mother.”

Happy little Harold! safe in the arms of the Good Shepherd, and very nearly home!

No one is too young to come to the Lord Jesus, no one is too young to have their sins washed away. O come to Jesus, little children, come to Him now, for He is waiting to receive you, longing to make you “whiter than snow.” Perhaps you say that you don’t know how to come, but the Lord Jesus is close beside you, you have not got to go a long way to find Him. Just speak to Him where you are, tell Him that you need Him because you are stained with sin, tell Him that you come to Him because you cannot do without Him, and you will find it true, as He said long ago,

“Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

ML 01/09/1938

The Song of Moses

Deuteronomy 32:1-45

Part of the last words of Moses were a song, which the people were to learn. These words do not seem like a song to us, and perhaps were more a chant. They probably were sung with instruments the same as the people used when they sang at the Red Sea.

In this, are very beautiful words of praise to God, which have been read and loved by many since then. The verses about the eaglet are often read: “As an eagle stirreth up her nest, fluttereth over her young, spreadeth abroad her wings, taketh them, beareth them on her wings: So the Lord alone did lead.” (Verses 11-12). While in the wilderness the people perhaps had often seen the eagles fly about their nests high up tin some rocky cliff. They knew how the mother bird shakes the nest so the young ones will have to try to fly; then how she flies about underneath them with her great wings spread out, and if the young eagles cannot fly, or become tired, they rest on her strong wings and she carries them to safety.

And so carefully God had led the people of Israel!

The last part of the song was not of joy, but of the sorrows which must come if the people worshipped idols, as the nations around them did.

After the song we read in the next chapter of the blessings which the tribes should have in the good land. One tribe, Simeon, is not spoken of in these blessings, but that tribe shared in the portion of the tribe of Judah. Joshua 19:1 and 9.

The last words given us by Moses are in praise to God:

“Happy art thou, O Israel: who is like unto thee, O people saved by the Lord!” Deuteronomy 33:29.

ML 01/09/1938

The Snow

Who sends the white and feathery snow

From yonder inky cloud?

Its gentle flakes fall soft and slow

Till shrubs and flowers they shroud.

Now scarlet berries, leaflets green,

Are hidden from our sight;

Nor is the earth e’en longer seen,

All, all is spotless white.

Dear children, He who makes the snow,

And sends it from the sky,

Is God, who to us long ago,

Sent Jesus here to die.

And by His blood our souls are made,

Ah! whiter than the snow;

Thus speaks His word, and what’s there said

Is true, we fully know.

“WASH ME, AND I SHALL BE WHITER THAN SNOW.” Psalms 51:7.

“The blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7.

“Come now, let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool:” Isa. 1:18.

ML 01/16/1938

"Today"

Hannah had not been accustomed to the Sunday school as most of us have. She had gone with her parents to a lovely seaside resort. On the third day a novelty appeared on the beach —a Children’s Seaside Service. What could it mean? The speaker gave out a peculiar text:

“The Holy Ghost saith, ‘TODAY.’” Hebrews 3:7,8.

He had explained to the children that the Lord Jesus wants to save them in early life; that there is danger in delay; that although He calls now He will not always invite sinners to come to Him; that the Holy Ghost saith: “TODAY.”

Hannah went home very sober. All through the rest of the afternoon and evening the words were ringing in her ears: “The Holy Ghost saith, ‘TODAY.’”

At last she told her mother what the speaker had said, just before she was going to bed. Her mother, who did not know the Lord Jesus as her Saviour, tried to remove the impression made on the child’s mind by saying: “You are very young, Hannah; there is plenty of time yet for you.” So, as the child went upstairs to bed she said:

“Mother says there is plenty of time; the Holy Ghost saith, ‘TODAY.’

Hannah kept a little diary in which she jotted down important things that happened in her life day by day. After writing briefly her impressions of the address and quoting the text:

“The Holy Ghost saith, ‘TODAY,’” she wrote under it: “I will come to the Lord Jesus in a month’s time.”

Then she undressed and got into bed. She could not sleep, however, and at last got out of bed and wrote in her diary:

“I will come to the Lord Jesus in a week’s time.” But still she could not sleep. She turned from side to side while the Holy Ghost whispered in her ear: “TODAY.”

At last she could bear it no longer. Kneeling by the side of her bed, she yielded herself to the Lord Jesus and her heart was full of joy as she realized that He had forgiven her sins, and made her a child of God. How glad she was to be able to write now in her diary that she had yield to the Lord Jesus, and accepted Him today, and that He had saved her.

“Wherefore as the Holy Ghost saith, Today if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts.” Hebrews 3:7,8.

“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:2.

ML 01/16/1938

Songs in the Night

A little girl who was a Christian met with an accident with fire and was badly burned. She was taken to the hospital. She suffered very much, yet she did not complain. During all her sufferings she was very happy. One night as she lay in bed, and the other patients were all quiet, her little voice was heard singing,

“Jesus, the name to sinners dear,

The name to sinners given;

It scatters all their guilty fear,

And turns their hell to heaven.”

And then a pause, and nothing was heard but the ticking of the clock, when the little girl again sang,

“Happy, if with my latest breath

I may but speak His name;

Preach Him to all, and call in death,

Behold, behold the Lamb.”

What a happy child to know such a Saviour.

Reader, is Jesus precious to you? Are you saved?

ML 01/16/1938

The Happy Cripple Boy

Daniel had never walked, but sat quietly by the window, or on pleasant clays his mother pushed his chair out in the yard under the trees, where he could see his little brother Charlie and other children at play, or watch the people going to the sea shore, which was near.

One day a little girl came into the, yard and talked with Daniel, while her father, who was weak and tired of riding, rested under the trees outside the gate. Their house was in the city, and they often passed the cottage when riding to the beach.

The child, whose name was Lily, felt sorry for the crippled boy, and she told him how her father, too, was ill and could not rest at night.

“Does he know Jesus?” asked Daniel. He had learned when very young of the love of Jesus, and spoke of Him as a dear Friend who made him happy.

“O, I expect he does,” said Lily, “only he never says anything about Him. Do you love Jesus?”

“Yes”, said the boy, “because He loves me, and if I say ‘Jesus’ in my heart He makes me forget my pain.”

“I will tell my father to say ‘Jesus’ too,” and Lily ran to tell what the boy had said.

But her father made no answer, only that they had better start home. That night was a dreary one again for the sick man, though in his fine home with many comforts. He wished he had not let Lily visit the cripple boy. All night he seemed to hear the words, “Just say ‘Jesus’”, and he did not want to think of that name.

But a few days after, to please Lily, he went with her to see Daniel, whom they found weaker and in bed, yet quiet and patient. They talked together, then Daniel asked very respectfully,

“Don’t you know Jesus?”

“I am afraid not, my boy.”

“It is easy—it is only ‘Come unto Me.’ Mother, please say the verse,” and the mother repeated,

“Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28.

“I would give all I own’’, said the man, “to have such rest.”

“Sir, it need cost you nothing. The salvation of God is without price to us. The Lord Jesus paid the price when He died on the cross.”

Lily’s father had traveled in many lands, but had not learned to trust the humble name of Jesus, and he could not answer Daniel or his mother, so bade them “goodbye” and he and Lily returned home, but not forgetting the sick boy’s words and his verse.

“Please, Aunt Ellen, find where it says, ‘Come unto Me’”, and Lily handed her aunt a large finely bound Bible, but it had seldom been used.

“Why, child I do not know where to look, you better go play.”

“No”, answered Lily, “Father wants to read what the sick boy said about ‘Come unto Me.’” Her aunt opened the Book and in surprise said,

“Why here it is, I opened to the very place.”

Lily eagerly took the big Bible to her father, who was now too weak to leave his bed, and watched as he slowly read over the words.

It was a few days later that Lily’s father told her he could now say ‘Jesus’ and, at last, felt rest and joy. This made the little girl happy too.

“Can I go tell Daniel?” she asked.

“Go my child, it will comfort him.”

Lily’s aunt went with her to the small cottage home. All was very quiet there. And the sad mother told them that the night before Daniel had gently said, “Good night, dear mother”, and quietly gone to sleep, not to wake again to the pain of this world, but to be with Jesus who loved him.

It comforted the mother to hear of the blessing her boy had been to Lily’s father, as he had been to all who knew him, because he had so simply trusted in Jesus.

Very soon the sick man also bade his family “goodbye”, telling them how thankful he was to know the love of Jesus, his only regret was that he had not come to Him early in life.

After the death of their loved one, Lily and her young aunt tried to honor the Lord who comforted them, and they often. visited Daniel’s mother.

“Just say Jesus.”

Do not reply “Tis yet too soon

To look to heaven or think of death,”

A flower may fade before ‘tis noon,

And life is only just a breath.

ML 01/16/1938

"Papa, Mamma, I"

One dark, stormy night mother woke up. Hark! who is talking? The wind is blowing. It is not that. Who is talking? Why, it is Alice in her crib. Mother did not speak; she kept still to hear what her little girl said. Alice was not fretting; she was not worrying. She was not afraid of the dark or the wind. How do you know? I will tell you what she was saying—saying all to herself in her snug little bed by mother’s bed. “God, take care papa, mamma, I. God, take care papa, mamma, I. God, take care papa, mamma, I. God, take care birdies. Dear God up in the sky, I love you, I do, I do;” and with that her little voice died away, and she fell asleep again.

Were they not sweet thoughts for a little child in the dark night? God loves to be in the thoughts of a little child.

ML 01/16/1938

The Death of Moses

Deuteronomy 34

Moses wished very much to see the land which God had promised Israel. God had said he could not go in with the people. But the same day he finished the last talk to them. God told him to go up on Mt. Nebo.

This mountain was on the east side of the Jordan river, and from there God showed Moses the land of Canaan: he looked north and south, east and west, over its mountains, valleys, fields, and forests. Men since have climbed the high mountain peaks in that land, and have seen Canaan very plainly, but do not know the exact peak on which Moses stood.

Moses’ eye was not dim and his body was still strong, but God’s time had come for him to die: “So Moses, the servant of the Lord, died there,... according to the word of the Lord.” And he was buried in a valley by the Lord, and no one then, nor since, knew the place of his grave. The people mourned for him thirty days.

Moses had been a great and kind leader of these people. He loved them, and had given up a high place with the king of Egypt to share their burdens. He had sat all day to judge over them; when they sinned, he had earnestly prayed God to forgive them. He is called the greatest prophet of Israel. A prophet is one who tells God’s Words: what He wants people to do; and what is to happen; and Moses had very patiently told God’s Words. God had done the greatest signs and wonders for Israel by Moses He ever did for any people.

Moses lived forty-years with the king of Egypt; forty years in the lonely desert lands tending the herds; and forty years as leader of Israel on the journey to Canaan. How old was Moses when he died? Deut. 34:7.

Do you know a still greater work Moses did, than to be the leader of the big camp of Israel? It was to write God’s words, and thousands of people since have read those writing’s. We will talk more of this next time, the Lord willing.

ML 01/16/1938

Wolves

Wolves are fierce creatures, living in forests, enemies to cattle,—ravenous, greedy and crafty.

In times of great famine, when they can get no food, wolves are said to destroy one another; they run around in a circle, and the first to fall through dizziness is devoured by the rest.

When they set upon sheep, they make choice of a dark cloudy day, that they may escape the more safely; and they go against the wind, to prevent the dogs from smelling them. They are very cautious and difficult to entrap. They rarely attack a man unless rendered fearless by hunger.

Scripture takes notice of this animal, as it does many others, and if you will react carefully the Scriptures that relate to the wolf, you will see that the Word of God takes notice of it, that it is violent, cruel and greedy.

In John 10:12, you may read of the Lord Jesus Himself speaking of the wolf catching the sheep and scattering them.

God, in His Word, likens all of us to sheep.

“All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way.” Isa. 53:6.

We too have an enemy, but like the poor sheep, helpless and defenseless against wolves, we are powerless against the great enemy of our souls, Satan, but, as we read in John 10:11,

“I am the good Shepherd: the good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep.”

We learn that the Lord Jesus Christ as “The good Shepherd” has died, given His life, that He might save all who put their trust in Him, from the power of Satan, and from the consequences of their sins.

Have you put your trust in the Lord Jesus yet?

“BELIEVE ON THE LORD JESUS CHRIST, AND THOU SHALT BE SAVED.” Acts 16:31.

ML 01/23/1938

Jack and the Waves

The waves were quietly receding on a lovely golden stretch of sand at a coast town. Jack, a young boy, full of vivacity, and glorying in all the possibilities of play, busied himself at castle-building, digging and wheeling loads of sand from one part to another. In every direction he would run, very likely imagining himself an engine-driver on some important undertaking.

“I think I’ll sit down now on that big rock before I make another run with my engine.” So saying, he carried his thought into action. Here he viewed the stretch of sands, saw the great blue sea, and watched the little groups of people, particularly the children.

Suddenly he drew himself up as if about to obey the command of a general. His eyes traveled over all these sands where he had jumped, digged, and wheeled his barrow. Here was, a huge hole, there a small one; the footprints. were very evident with the winding trails of the wheelbarrow.

“Did I do all that? All these big holes, these winding trails, the footprints? What a pity! I’ve spoiled the lovely stretch of sand. If every boy and girl did that, would not the seashore be ugly. I do wish I had not done it; or if I had just stayed in that one big hole I made where I built the castle. What can I do? I’m not at all happy.”

Suddenly-he recollected part of the address he had heard only the day previously at the seaside service. The speaker had particularly emphasized the awfulness of sin, and of the necessity of being cleansed from it by the precious blood of Jesus. A link was immediately formed between that talk and his experience.

“These marks are just like my sins—the unkind words, the acts of rebellion, O, so many things I’ve said and done, and I cannot get rid of them.” Then, like a flash, as from Heaven itself, a voice seemed to say,

“Jack, do you see what you have done?” Too well he knew it, and could only answer a silent “Yes.” Again the voice, but how different was the message and its effects,

“Watch what happens. See what I will do.” A huge billow soon came rolling in, mightier than all the others, splashing and dancing as it drew nearer. The spray sparkled like diamonds in the sunshine, then the rush of water simply spread itself over all the area where Jack had been playing. With eyes filled with bewilderment and joy, Jack saw every hole refilled, everything leveled with such a wonderful evenness and smoothness. Could it be possible?

Immediately he thought of that beautiful text again which had been hung upon the walls of his mind just the day before,

“The blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7. Could anything be plainer to him now after such an illustration?

When I trust the Lord Jesus my sins are all gone. They are just like all these marks and holes I have made on the sand, not a single one remains to be seen.” Again and again that wonderful verse revolved in his mind until it reached his very soul.

Is it any wonder that he jumped for very joy and ran home to tell mother that he had realized the truth of the words, “The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin?” All who are cleansed in that blood are happy and safe.

And what about you, my dear young reader? Looking over the past of your life, is it full of holes and ruts made by sins which have been committed every day? Well, God can cleanse you too in the precious blood. Christ died for you, too, and longs to hear you tell Him that you will accept Him as your own personal Saviour. Will you not receive Him?

“As many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to those that believe on His Name.” John 1:12.

ML 01/23/1938

The Captive Indian Boy

A small band of American trappers were wending their way across the western wilderness when they suddenly came upon an Indian encampment.

They were horrified to find that an Indian boy belonging to a hostile tribe had been captured, and was about to be burned at the stake. He was securely bound, and the faggots were ready to be lighted. Their deepest compassion was aroused in favor of the little fellow who was so soon to feel the scorching flames amid the fierce exultation of his savage foes, and they resolved to redeem the captive if that were possible. Advancing towards the Indian chiefs, they offered to pay a ransom price to give the boy his liberty. But this offer was firmly rejected. They were not going to deny themselves the pleasure of carrying out their wicked desires of cruelty. The white man could keep his gold.

At this juncture the trappers held a hurried consultation, and determined that the Indian boy must be delivered. They could not stand by and see him slowly burned to death before their eyes. If gold could not redeem him, they were prepared, if need be, to shed the last drop of their blood to effect his rescue. They knew the risks they were taking, but they had counted the cost, and were prepared for the consequences. Approaching the redskin warriors again, they said,

“The Indian boy must not be burned. If you do not take the price we have offered, we will fight for the boy, although the last man of us should have to die on the spot where we stand.”

It was a striking situation. The little captive had no claim whatever on the white men’s compassion. He belonged to an alien race. It was in a sense no affair of theirs.

Surely this is a striking picture of the love that gave Jesus to die on Calvary. We had no claim on His pity. We were enemies, and He might have left us to perish. Yet He had compassion—a compassion so deep and strong that when no ransom could be found, He gave Himself.

“Christ died for the ungodly.” Romans 5:6.

When the Indian warriors saw the set and determined faces of these few white men, each with his rifle ready to do its deadly work, they considered matters more carefully, and then said

“We will take the white man’s gold.” Immediately the ransom price was paid, and at the same moment the sharp knife of a trapper cut the bonds that held the captive boy, and he was free.

What joy would fill the little fellow’s heart! He understood all that was done. He knew he was delivered, and he knew what he had been delivered from. How true this is also of all who have received Christ as the “‘ransom of the soul,” and been delivered from the condemnation of sin.

But the work of the trappers was not yet done, they were resolved to keep the little captive safe till he was clear out of danger. Taking him along with them, they continued their journey, leaving the Indian encampment far behind. On the third clay a solitary Indian was seen on the distant prairie. As he drew near, the boy’s keen eye recognized him.

“This is my father,” he said. And in a few minutes the trappers had the joy of presenting the boy safe and sound to him.

This speaks to us of a day yet to come, when Jesus, the great Shepherd of the sheep, shall present each one who has been redeemed through His precious blood, to His Father in heaven. Will you be there?

“God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8.

“Giving thanks unto the Father,... Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son, in Whom we have redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of sins.” Colossians 1:12-14.

ML 01/23/1938

The Writings of Moses

When the Lord Jesus was on earth and wished to make plain to people that He was the Christ, the Messiah, who had been promised, He began with Moses’ writings to explain to them. We learn from this that God’s first lessons were written by Moses who lived many years before the Lord Jesus came. His writings are the first five books of the Bible.

Moses did not write what he thought; but what the Lord told him; much he wrote of happened before he lived,—all the book of Genesis. The Lord spoke directly to him and told him what to write. (Deuteronomy 34:10. 2 Peter 1:21).

You may hear sometimes that what was written so long ago is not likely to be true. But we may be sure that the One Who was Creator of this earth and all on it was able to have a true account written and to keep it safe. If God had not had the Bible written we would not know who made all, or what is right or what is wrong to do, nor of God’s love and care.

The earliest writings were not on paper but on rolls of skins. The ones first written by Moses are not in existence now. They were written in Hebrew and kept in the gold ark many years, always greatly prized by that nation. It is said that when any rolls became worn, they were so carefully copied, that if a mistake were made they wrote an entire new copy.

If you open the Bible to Psalms 119 you can see the Hebrew alphabet, one letter and its name before each eight verses (count how many letters). Notice how a tiny mark or curve makes one letter different from another, so the writings must have needed great care.

Psalms 90 is also a writing of Moses. Moses writings are quoted from many times in the New Testament, many times by the Lord Jesus Himself. He told men of Israel, if they had believed Moses’ wrings, they would have believed Him. John 5:46,47.

These are the names of the five books of Moses:

Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy.

ML 01/23/1938

The Wrong Man

Our little darling’s dolly’s head has come off and it needs to be fixed on again, but what do you think she has done?

Why, she has gone to the blacksmith with it. Poor little thing, she did not know any better, and we can easily over-look her mistake. The kind-hearted blacksmith will send her to the right one, who will put it on properly.

Would you think children who are able to read, and grown up people too, would ever make such a mistake as this little girl? I expect most of my little readers would say, “Surely not.”

But let me tell you, there are a whole lot who are making such a mistake about the salvation of their souls. Instead of going to the Lord Jesus to save them, and who alone can save, they go to a preacher, and hope he will be able to save them, maybe, by baptizing them, or praying over them, or doing some other things for them. Others will turn to do good works with the hope they will get their soul saved that way, not knowing, perhaps that the Scripture says,

“NOT BY WORKS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS WHICH WE HAVE DONE,BUT ACCORDING TO HIS MERCY HE SAVED US.” Titus 3:5.

May you, dear reader, go to the Lord Jesus Christ for the salvation of your soul, for He is the only One who can save you, and He has said,

“Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

ML 01/30/1938

"Have You Such Love for the Bible?"

Little George was sent by his mother one day to a store to buy soap. The store woman weighed the soap and then prepared to wrap it up.

On the table, among some old papers, lay a thick book which she took in her hand to tear off a page. George looked at the woman with surprise and cried out: “Why that’s the Bible!”

“Well, what about it?” replied the woman.

“It is the Bible,” repeated the boy, “what are you going to do with it?”

“Wrap the soap in it,” was the answer.

“Surely you would not tear up that beautiful book? It’s the Bible,” said the boy with special emphasis.

“What’s the harm in that?” replied the woman somewhat annoyed. “I bought it for old paper to use in the store.”

With greater emphasis, George said: “What! the Bible? O, how I wish it were mine! I would certainly not tear it up.”

“Good,” said the woman, “if you pay me what I paid for it, you. can have it.” She told George the price. It was only five or six cents, and being quite glad he said:

“I will run right home and ask mother for the money.”

With these words, George left the store and ran home at full gallop. Breathless, he said to his mother,

“Please, dear mother, give me some money!”

“What for?” she asked.

“To buy a Bible:” he replied. “The woman in the store was going to tear up the Bible and I asked her to please not; and she was willing to sell it to me. O please, dear mother, give me some money to buy it and she will not tear it.” The mother replied,

“I cannot, dear George. I have really no more money, George was sad, but the mother could not help him. He turned back to the store sobbing and said:

“My mother is poor, and cannot give me any money; but please do not tear the Bible, for there are so many beautiful things in it about our Lord Jesus.”

The real sorrow of the boy softened the heart of the store woman. She patted him kindly on the head and said:

“My dear, don’t cry anymore; you shall have the Bible, if you bring me as much old paper as it weighs.”

George had not expected that. He dried his tears and said,

I’ll do that willingly, and thank you very, very much.’.’

He ran quickly back to his mother and begged for old paper. She gave him all she had. Then he went to the neighbors’ houses, and asked the people for more. And when he believed he had enough, he hurried back to the store with the bundle of paper under his arm. Stepping in, he cried:

“Here is the paper.”

“Good,” said the woman; “let me weigh it.” The paper was laid on one scale, and the Bible on the other, and the scale on which the paper lay, went down, and with tears of joy in his eyes George exclaimed, “The Bible is mine!” He then ran home to his mother and holding up the Bible in his hand, cried, “I have it, mother! I have it!”

Now, are you pleased with little George my dear young readers? Do you also love the Bible? George knew there were beautiful and glorious things in it. It tells us of God, who dwells in heaven, and of the Son of God, who came down from heaven, and died for sinners on the cross, and to hear and read it was such a joy for George, that he spared no trouble to possess the old Bible.

Is it so with you? You certainly have a Bible at home, and don’t need to. bring money or old paper to possess one. Take it, and open it to 2 Timothy 3:15, and let us read together,

“From a child thou hast known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.”

ML 01/30/1938

"Whose Boy Am I?"

Mother, whose boy am I?” inquired little Freddie, as he looked into his mother’s face.

“Why, certainly, you are my boy,” said his mother; but why do you ask?”

“Well,” said Freddie, “when I was by the seaside an old sailor tarring his boat, said, ‘Keep clear of the tar, my little man.’ When we went to get a ride in the coach, the man who was washing the wheels said, ‘Keep clear, my little man.’ Yesterday, when you took me on a visit to old Mrs. Jones, who is sick, she said, ‘I am so glad to see you, my little man.’ Mother, whose boy am I?”

“Why, mine, of course,” said the mother. “Who feeds you, clothes you, tucks you up when in bed, and cares for you always?” A warm hug of her little boy and he had the assurance that he was mother’s boy.

Long, long ago, a company of soldiers found a poor man in a field, who had not eaten any bread nor drunk any water for three days and three nights. They brought him to the king, and the first question the king asked him was;

“To whom belongest thou”? (1 Sam. 30:11-13). If a king could ask that question long ago, I may surely ask you that question to-day: “To whom belonst thou?”

You know whose boy or girl you are, as far as your earthly parentage, your home, and all that pertains to this life is concerned. I wonder if you know whose you are in relation to your soul? The Apostle Paul could say concerning

“GOD.. whose I am, and whom I serve” Acts 27:23.

Can you say the same? If you do not belong to the Lord Jesus Christ, you must belong to Satan, for “no man can serve two Masters” (Matt. 6:24).

Yet anyone may change Masters at once. If you belong to and serve the Adversary, the Devil, make up your mind to quit his service. You do not need to give him notice, but accept the Saviour’s invitation,

“Come unto Me ... and I will give you rest” Matthew 11:28.

You will find Him a good Master, and will be rewarded at last for all service done for Him. Accepting the Lord Jesus Christ as your own Saviour, Lord, and Master, you will rejoice and be able to say,

“I am my Beloved’s” and “My Beloved is mine” (S. of S. 2:16). No better time than “Now.”

ML 01/30/1938

The Price of a Chinese Boy

A poor boy of the streets was taken into a mission home in China. The common practice of his life had been to lie and steal, so he gave much trouble to his new friends. He disliked very much to attend the services, and disturbed often with his noisy movements.

One morning a man who felt much interest in Jimmie, as he was called, said to him,

“How much is a good slave boy worth, in China?”

“O, ‘bout $60, mister, some parts.”

“Well, Jimmie, there is Someone who wants to buy you. How much are you worth?”

The boy was indignant to think that anyone wanted him to be a slave, and said he would not be a slave to anyone, “It is the Lord Jesus who wants you, Jimmie. Would you be worth $60, to Him?” the man said.

“No,” said the boy slowly, “me no worth $60 to Lord Jesus.”

“Would you be worth $50 to Lord Jesus?”

“No, no worth $50 to Lord Jesus.” The man kept lowering the price, until Jimmie said,

“Me no worth nothing to Lord Jesus.”

You see, he had learned one great fact, although the workers thought he was not learning anything. He had learned that there could be no sin in the presence of the Lord Jesus, and he remembered his dishonest honest ways.

The friend told him that the Lord Jesus wanted him anyway, and had already paid for him with His own life. This made Jimmie feel that the Lord loved him in spite of his sins, and he said he would like to serve and be a “slave” to the One who had bought him.

Jimmie soon became a good helper at the mission and since that time has walked many miles, suffering many hardships, to give out Christian papers and portions of the Bible.

Would you be worth more to the Lord Jesus than the street boy of China? Jesus can pay no more for you than He did for Jimmie. He has paid His own blood to claim you as His own.

“For ye are bought with a price.” 1. Cor. 6:20.

“...For Thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by Thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation.” Revelation 5:9.

ML 01/30/1938

What the Boys and Girls Saw

We will go with our young and with our old; with our sons and with our daughters.” This was the answer of Moses when the king of Egypt asked who was to go to serve God. Exodus 10:9.

And in that big company who hurried away from Egypt after the Passover, there must have been many boys and girls. They could not ride as you do on a journey, but probably walked all the way. Some would help carry the bundles, or the little children; others help drive the sheep, goats, and cattle.

There was no place to sleep the first nights, only under tree branches; and the bread dough must have been cooked on hot stones. But they saw many wonderful sights no other boys and girls have ever seen, but also some sad things.

They must have been very frightened when they saw the king’s army after them, until they saw that God had made the deep waters of the Red Sea divide and stand up like great walls, with the dry road between. How happy they must have been when safe across, to sing with their pants thanks to God!

When hungry how glad they would be to see and eat the small, round, white manna, and to help gather it. When thirsty they saw the great rock open, and water flow out, plenty for all.

The awful lightning and thunder at Mt. Sinai would make them tremble, but many were not too young to hear God’s voice and to obey Him.

How sad that a short time after, they saw the people dance around the calf of gold, when God had said to make no images!

After the people had sorrowed for their sin, they saw the two stones with the ten laws engraved on, and heard Moses read them. Exodus 34:29-33.

They must have seen the work for the court and Tent of God: the wood cut for the pillars; and the women spinning goats’ hair, and also, the blue, purple, and scarlet to embroider the fine linen curtains. Exodus 35:25,26.

Can you think of other things those boys and girls saw the first year of that journey?

ML 01/30/1938

Answers to Bible Questions for December

“The Children’s Class”

1.“And I heard,” etc. Rev 12:10.

2.“And I saw,” etc. 20:12.

3.“And a voice,” etc. 19:5.

4.“Then saith he,” etc. 22:9.

5. “These shall make,” etc. 17:14

6.“And they sung,” etc. 14:3.

7.“And they sing,” etc. 15:3,4.

Bible Questions for February

“The Children’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in Matthew, chapters 10-18

1.Write in full the verse containing the words, “And lose his own soul.”

2.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Because of your unbelief.”

3.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Wherefore didst thou doubt?”

4.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Despise not one of these little ones.”

5.Write in full the verse containing the words, “More value than many sparrows.”

6.Write in full the verse containing the words,

7.“I will have mercy, and not sacrifice.”

Unto whom has the Father revealed the things which are hid from the wise and prudent?

Answers to Bible Questions for December

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

1.The lake which burneth with fire and brimstone. Rev. 21:8.

2.Forty and two months. Rev. 13:5.

3.Work miracles; call down fire from heaven. Rev. 13:13-14.

4.Revelation 22:17.

5.The ten horned beast. Rev. 17:16-17.

6.“Come out of her, my people.” Rev. 18:4.

7.Armageddon. Rev. 16:14-16.

Bible Questions for February

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

The Answers are to be found in Matthew, chapters 10-18

1.How many different kinds of ground received the Seed of the Gospel?

2.Where is the first mention of the Church in the Bible? And what confession is it built upon?

3.From-whom are spiritual things hidden?

4.List the seven parables in the 13th chapter.

5.What verse shows the Jewish character of the Lord’s ministry in Matthew?

6.What is the first step in settling a personal trespass?

7.What defiles a man?

Note: The Answer to Question No. 1, of Nov. should be Revelation 7:3; instead of Revelation 11:4, given in Jan. 2nd paper. We are sorry for the error.

ML 02/06/1938

Trust

Look, Johnny,” says Elsie, “the sparrows have come again, because the door is open. Throw out some more crumbs. There, isn’t that one bold!” and Johnny calls it, and it hops right in at the open door. Johnny’s sister Elsie had been taught the verse:

“Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall to the ground without your Father.” Matthew 10:29.

“Yes, Johnny, I think they trust us because we are kind to them, and isn’t it wonderful that God in heaven, the great God, who created us, should say in my verse that not one of those little brown sparrows falls without Him?”

Just then father came home, and hearing what Johnny and Elsie had been saying, called them to him, and read these verses to them as a little lesson to them on trust.

“The Lord is great in power.” “The Lord is good.” “He knoweth them that trust in Him.” Nahum 1:3,7.

“There is no fear in love, (God’s) perfect love casteth out fear.” 1 John 4:18.

“I will trust, and not he afraid.” Isaiah 12:2.

“Fear ye not, therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.” Matthew 10:31.

ML 02/06/1938

Harold and Willie

I came to God as a lost, guilty sinner, and accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as my own personal Saviour, as I was on my way home from school. I had always to pass the church going and coming from school, so this day as I was passing, I saw the church door open, and I looked in to see who was there, and it was my chum, Willie Hodge. Willie had taken the Lord Jesus Christ as his Saviour a few weeks before this, and seemed very happy, so turning to me he asked me this question,

“Harold, if you were to die now where would you go?”

“Down to hell,” I said, for I knew that I was a sinner, and had to be saved before I could say I’d go to heaven; for I had read in the Bible that all have sinned and come short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23) and my Sunday school teacher told me that Jesus said,

“If ye die in your sins, whither I am ye cannot come.”

Willie took his Testament, and turned to John 3:16, and read,

“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,’’ then he read Romans 10:9.

“If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.”

“Harold, do you believe with all your heart?”

“Yes, Willie, I do.”

“Then God says you’re saved,” so I took God at His word, for I believed with all my heart, and God’s Word says, “Thou shalt be saved; so I was saved then and there, by taking the Lord Jesus Christ as my personal Saviour, and I’m saved now, and will be forever. So, dear boys and girls, I hope you will accept the Lord Jesus as your Saviour, and be able to say,

“I love Him because He first loved me.” 1 John 4:19.

ML 02/06/1938

"My Precious Bible"

While, in the house of a friend, I went one day to my room and found the baby of the house playing with my Bible. I quite startled the little fellow by exclaiming,

“O Andrew! give it to me, my precious Bible!”

He handed it to me at once, for he knew that he ought not to have it, and later on he begged of his mother an old coverless book which he showed to me, saying triumphantly,

“See my precious Bible.”

I hope as he grows older that Andrew will find the Bible a precious book indeed. It is my earnest prayer for all my young friends that they may believe its precious truths, trust in the Saviour revealed there, and be faithful to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, sent by God to teach us all things.

We read much in the 119th Psalm of the Word of God and what it was to the writer. We are told in the New Testament of the life, death and resurrection of the Saviour Jesus.

Will you not add to your prayers this petition, that you may always love and honor God’s Word?

May the Word of God become so precious to us that we may say,

“O how I love Thy Law (Thy Word)! it is my meditation all the day.” Psalms 119:97.

“The Word of the Lord endureth Forever.” 1 Peter 1:25.

ML 02/06/1938

God's Wonderful Works

How wonderful are all God’s works! Wherever we may look, we see the finger of an all-wise Creator.

Seeing God’s beautiful creation reminds us that we are responsible to God our Creator, so God has given us His Word, the Bible, where we read,

“EVERY ONE OF US SHALL GIVE ACCOUNT OF HIMSELF TO GOD.” Romans 14:12.

This is a very solemn thing, and there is one question above all else that God will have us answer and that is, what have we done with His Son? God has asked us to believe on Jesus, His Son, as the One who died for us. Have you accepted Him as your Saviour? If you have, read John 3:36,

“He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life.”

If you have not accepted. Jesus as your Saviour, read the rest of the verse, “He that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.”

02/06/1938

What the Boys and Girls Saw

The first great event the children saw in the second year of the journey to Canaan was the keeping of the Passover Feast, which many Hebrew children since have seen.

Soon after, they saw the tents taken down and all marched from Sinai.

How glad they must have been when they heard they had come to the border of the good land God had promised; and how beautiful the fine fruits the spies brought, must have seemed! But they were disappointed: the men were afraid to go in, and they had to live a long time in the wild lands, and not much is told of those years.

They saw the dreadful sight when the ground opened and the three families, whose fathers had spoken against God, fell into the earth. But the children of the leader, Korah, “died not’’, and long after sons of that family were singers in the Tabernacle, Numbers 26:11; 1 Chron. 6:31-38; and Psalm 84 was one of their songs.

The children must have seen animals taken to sacrifice for sins, and have learned that was God’s way then to forgive them.

Every day they saw the cloud which sheltered them from the hot sun, and every bight they saw the pillar of fire lighting the camp. No other children ever saw those.

They would see the serpent of brass up on the pole; Aaron’s rod that grew almonds; the silver trumpets; and perhaps yon, can think of more.

At last, after forty years, they were ready to enter Canaan, but the boys and girls who left Egypt were grown up. We will read of them and their children there.

It is good for us to remember about that strange journey, for it makes us know better God’s holy ways, yet His care for all His people.

“O satisfy us early with Thy mercy, that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.” Psalms 90:14.

ML 02/06/1938

Now

Three little letters form the word,

Of import vast and great;

A solemn word on which oft hangs

Man’s everlasting-state.

That word is “Now;” a little word,

Yet spoken by the Lord;

Recurring oft—again, again

Throughout the written Word.

Now is the Lord’s accepted time, Now is Salvation’s day,

Now whosoever will may come,

Now Christ’s the Life, the Way.

Now pardon’s offered—full and free—

Now heaven is opened wide;

Now peace is offered through the blood,

Now—for the Lord hath died.

O children! heed the call of God,

And “now” in meekness bow,

The words of God are true indeed,

And He will bless thee “now.”

ML 02/06/1938

The Lighthouse

When we read of great heroes who fearlessly give their lives for some cause or other, we admire them very much; we think them wonderful. But we often pass by unnoticed some who, in an obscure way, endure and suffer silently in doing that which they know God has called them to do.

In a lighthouse, two miles from shore, on the French coast, lived the guard with his wife and four children.

One day, Matelot, this was his name, became ill. Night was coming on, and the light in the tower had to be lighted, Mrs. Matelot left her husband in the children’s care to go and light the lamp. On her return the oldest boy said,

“Mother, the light is not burning.”

And so it was, the revolving light was stationary, and would be mistaken for any other light, and it might lead to serious results to ships in that dark night, and threatening storm. Once more she climbed the steep stairs to see what could be done. A long time she worked, but in vain. Matelot was cleaning the machinery when he took ill, and had not been able to put it together again.

Returning to her quarters, she sent the two oldest boys, ten and seven years old, to the tower where all night, from nine o’clock until seven in the morning, the two children with all their strength, turned the lamp this way and that. Not one moment did they falter.

How many ships owed their safety to these brave little boys?God knows, if no one else. He also knows and takes notice and will reward the little boys and girls who, knowing what awaits those who do not have Jesus as their Saviour, warn them of the judgment to come. All children, no matter how young, who have learned of the Saviour’s love, can tell their playmates, or give them a scripture card, or a Sunday-school paper, that will tell them how to be saved.

“GO HOME TO THY FRIENDS, AND TELL THEM HOW GREAT THINGS THE LORD HATH DONE FOR THEE.” Mark 5:19.

ML 02/13/1938

"That Was Me"

It was a cold, dark evening in January. Snow had been falling a few hours before, making it difficult for walking, and the road being not very well lighted, and well out of the town, I could only walk on at a steady pace towards my destination.

Being a stranger I was not very sure of the nearest way to reach the street where the gospel preaching I desired to attend was to be held, so I thought it best to ask someone to tell me the way.

Not far behind me, and going in the same direction as myself was a young boy, so I waited a bit to allow him to overtake me. As he drew near he was humming a bright tune and appeared to be very happy.

I said to him,

“Can you tell me the way to—-Street?”

“O! yes,” he replied, “I am going that way myself.”

So we walked on together. After walking a little way in silence I thought I would ask him another question, and I think you who have been brought up by Christian parents and friends will suite agree that the question I desired to ask was a most important one, and I do not doubt most of you would be able to give me an answer. But I wonder how many could tell me about themselves what this dear boy was able to tell me, besides being able to give me a straight answer to what I was about to ask him. Are you really interested to know what my question to him was?

Well, do you think you could give an answer to the question I asked this happy boy? But, you say, you have not told us yet what it is. Listen, then, this is what I asked the lad, “Can you tell me the way to heaven?” “O! yes,” he replied, “I am on my way there myself.”

“Indeed,” said I, “and how do you know that you are on the way to heaven?”

“Don’t you see,” he answered, “there were a hundred sheep, and one of those sheep was lost, so the good Shepherd left the ninety and nine sheep and went after the one which was lost, and when He found it He put it on His shoulders and brought it home rejoicing. That was me,” said the boy brightly, “and I have been on His shoulders ever since, and He is taking me home to heaven.”

“When was it that the good Shepherd found you?” I asked the boy, as I was deeply interested and pleased to find him so happy.

“O! it was three years ago, when I was at a gospel service, that He found me, and I have been to the services ever since. How true are the words of the good Shepherd, ‘My sheep hear My voice ... .. and they follow Me.’”

I dare say most of you young readers would have been able to tell me the way to heaven,” had I asked any of you. But I wish you to ask yourself this question and give the answer to the Lord Jesus, Could I truly say I was on the way to heaven myself, like this boy we have been talking about?

I earnestly wish that you would really tell the Lord Jesus that you are the sheep gone astray and are lost. It is a dreadful thing to be lost. When we came into this world we were lost, and so the good Shepherd came to seek and to save the lost. No one can find the way to heaven without the good Shepherd.

If you are not saved, tell Him you are lost, and you want Him to find you, and He will hear your voice and know just where to find you, and when found He puts you upon His shoulders rejoicing. Then you will know what it is to be happy, truly happy, like the boy you have been reading about.

“Blessed are all they that put their trust in Him.” Psalms 2:12.

ML 02/13/1938

One of His Lambs

In a town in Province W— lives today a God-fearing family, who were brought to know the Lord through their little daughter.

The little girl one Sunday came (I do not know how) to the Sunday school at A—. There she heard, precious things. She heard of the love of God and the Saviour’s love to us, and of the happiness of all who know that love and follow that voice. The child was deeply touched by what she heard. She would speak of it after she came home again, for “out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.”

But the parents, especially her father, did not care to hear any more about these things of God, and so forbade his child to go again to the Sunday school. But since the child was so earnestly longing to hear more of these precious things, her mother got her ready and sent her secretly to A—to Sunday school.

Later on, when her father learned of it, he became very angry, and threatened to punish the child if she should go to Sunday school again. This caused the little girl much sorrow. But see what happened!

She took down sick, spoke much of wanting to go to Jesus, and the following Friday, the good Shepherd took His little lamb home to Himself. The following Sunday instead of her going to Sunday school it was the day of her funeral.

This deeply touched the parents, specially her father. He longed to hear God’s Word where his child heard it, and he was made happy through it. The Lord opened the hearts of the parents, they believed and found peace in. Jesus.

Was not this blessed fruit of the faithfullness of one of Jesus’ lambs?

She was at Home with her blessed Lord Jesus, and realized the truth of

“To depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better.” Philippians 1:23.

ML 02/13/1938

John 3:16

GOD, moved with sympathy to man

SO very far from Him,

LOVED to reveal Himself in grace

THE heart of man to win.

The WORLD had wandered far from God

And in THAT distance lay

Till HE in mercy interposed

And GAVE His Son to die.

HIS Son He gave our love to win,

His ONLY Son from heaven—

Only BEGOTTEN Son was He—

That SON for us was given.

THAT tells His heart of love for us,

And WHOSOEVER now

BELIEVETH on His precious name

Shall ON to glory go.

All who in HIM have placed their trust

SHOULD ever seek and pray

That NOT on things their hearts should set

Which PERISH in a day.

BUT follow in His footsteps here

And HAVE their hopes above

Where EVERLASTING glory reigns,

A LIFE of peace and love.

ML 02/13/1938

Joshua, the New Leader of Israel

Book of Joshua, chapter 1

Before Moses died, God had chosen his helper, Joshua, to be the one to lead the great company of Israel into Canaan, the land God had promised to give them for their own (Num. 27:15-23).

Joshua had once been in Canaan (Numbers 14:6-8), so he knew of the land, and God now told him where the borders should be (vs. 4). He told Joshua to think much of the book of the law, which had all God’s directions for just what the people should do and have in that land, written while they were still in the deserts. And we find Joshua followed God’s words and was a brave leader.

There were many men to help Joshua, but there were many fierce enemies in Canaan, who would not want the people of Israel to enter. But God told Joshua, “Be strong and of good courage: be not afraid, for the Lord Thy God is with thee, whither-so-ever thou goest.”

So Joshua told the officers to go among, the people to tell them to be ready in three days to cross the River Jordan, winch they were near, and must cross before they could be in Canaan.

Joshua spoke to the men of the two tribes of Reuben and Gad and half of the men of Manasseh to remember that they had agreed to help the rest into Canaan, and afterward could come back to their homes on the east side of Jordan where they were to leave their wives and children, because they liked the pastures there.

Later we learn how the Jordan River was crossed (Joshua, ch. 3 and 4).

How could Joshua have good success? (Joshua 1, vs. 8).

In the Book of the Law which Joshua was to read, were the words we read in Leviticus and Deuteronomy.

Do you know, the first mention of “a book” in the Bible, is the one written for Joshua to remember how, in the wilderness, the Lord helped him win his first battle? (Ex. 17:14).

ML 02/13/1938

A Christian or a Sinner?

There was a certain lady who had been in deep anxiety about her soul. She had read her Bible, prayed over and over again, and could get no rest for her soul. One day she came in to us, looking so happy that I knew something had transpired.

“You are happy now,” I said.

“Yes,” she replied, “I am. I found the secret at last. I was trying to make myself a Christian, and to come to the Lord Jesus Christ as such; but having given up, the idea of being a Christian, I found I was a sinner, and I accepted the redemption for the sinner. “Now,” she said, “I know Whom I have believed,—now I know I am saved.”

My dear young friends, don’t try to make yourselves Christians before you come to Christ as sinners. Accept the Lord as your own Saviour, and you will be eternally saved, through the fished work of Christ on the-cross, for lost sinners.

“The Son of Man is come to seek and to save that which was LOST.” Luke 19:10.

ML 02/13/1938

The First Lesson

This little dog seems to be a rat-terrier, for she has caught a rat and is teaching her young pups all about it.

They look very much interested, but also rather puzzled, for this is probably the first rat they ever saw.

Their mother wants them to learn to catch rats, and she is showing them just how to do it. Soon they, too, will be catching rats.

When you are children you have many lessons to learn. You learned to walk, and then you learned to talk, and you have learned many other things since.

Have you learned about God and His love? That is the most important thing of all.

Proverbs 8:17 says, “I love them that love Me; and those that seek Me early shall find Me.”

We see and learn plenty of bad things, but if we have learned to love God and are seeking to please Him, He will give us strength to do what is right, and to refuse to do what is wrong.

Others know by what you do, whether you are one of God’s children.

“Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work he pure and whether it be right.” Proverbs 20:11.

We don’t look for thorns on an apple tree, and we don’t look for bad deeds from one who knows and loves the Lord Jesus.

I hope each one of you is living in such a way that others see only good fruit,— that they see Jesus shining out in you. “WHEREFORE BY THEIR FRUITS YE SHALL KNOW THEM.” Matthew 7:20.

ML 02/20/1938

Bennie's Faith

Bennie was considered “simple” by the villagers. He certainly had not much of the wisdom of the world, hut he knew what many of the wise and great of earth know not—God’s salvation. Bennie was a peddler, and as he was on his rounds one day, he called at a blacksmith’s shop, where a number of loiterers usually were found.

“How do you know the Bible is true, Bennie?” asked one who stood by the fire.

“Because it’s God’s Book,” answered the simple boy.

“But how do you know that what it says is true?” asked another, for they were eager to get Bennie into an argument. “I know that God always speaks the truth. When He told me that Jesus died for sinners, I believed Him, and when He said, ‘Come unto Me and I will give you rest,’ I just came to Him, and I got it. When he said, ‘Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and you’ll be saved,’ I believed, and He saved me.”

There was no further question put to the boy; His faith was firm in the Word of God. Standing there, neither men nor demons can move the believer.

So Bennie went on His way, clinging to the Word of God, which can never be broken, can never fail.

Men trust one another; they believe what one another says, in the market, on the exchange, at the counter. Sometimes they are disappointed, for some do not keep their promise; others who may be willing are not able.

But the God on whose Word the believing sinner relies, the eternal God, is both able and willing to perform His Word.

He is worthy of your trust; for as Bennie the peddler truly declared, “God always speaks the truth.” This is true alike in grace and in judgment. If God says,

“He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life” (John 3:36), it is absolutely true; he has it. Equally true it is, that if God says,

“He that believeth not shall be damned” (Mark 16:16), the unbeliever’s damnation is sure.

What say you to this, reader? Are you a believer in the Lord Jesus? Have you taken God’s Word for your guide, your authority in things relating to salvation? You will never get anything more sure, more reliable. Men may fail, but “God who cannot lie,” never fails. As the peddler boy truly said, “God always speaks the truth,” and what He says is found in His written Word.

“There is a Book, a holy Book,

By God to sinners given,

To show the way of life and peace,

And mark the path to heaven.”

ML 02/20/1938

Don't Forget Your Lantern

It gets dark early now, so you had better take the lantern,” said Charley’s mother, as the boy was starting for an afternoon at his cousin’s farm.

“O, I don’t need it. I am not afraid of the dark. The lantern is just a bother,” and Charley ran down the path and on across the fields.

The boys had a good time together, and it was growing dark when Charley said he must go home; A lantern was offered to him, but he was too proud to accept it, because of his boast to his mother. He said,

“O, I could find my way blindfolded!”

For as little way he could see the path; then he came to a fence and thought he would climb over the old stile for the shortest way home. His coat caught on a nail, and he tumbled down into a patch of nettles.

After that there was a wooded lot to cross, which was very dark. He was afraid he would lose his way. Once he fell into a water hole, and his wet clothes felt cold and uncomfortable.

At last he came out to the open field and saw the light his mother had put in the window. He was very glad to get home, but he felt ashamed of his torn, muddy clothes, and said, “I’ll take the lantern next time, Mother.”

A few years later Charley was a tall young man, ready to start for work in the city, from which he would not be home often.

“Don’t forget your ‘lantern,’ my boy,” said his mother, as she handed him his Bible. “That will show you the right way.”

And Charley found he needed that “lantern” to keep from evil ways more than he had needed the lantern in the dark woods.

“Thy Word is a Lamp unto my feet, and a Light unto my path.” Psalms 119:105.

ML 02/20/1938

"I Am a Sinner"

A little girl, a scholar in one of the Sunday schools was, during her affliction, visited by a lady, who asked her “Are you afraid to die?”

“No,” replied the little girl, “I am not afraid of dying.”

“But,” answered the lady, “where will you go when you die?”

“I shall go to heaven,” said the little sufferer.

“What makes you think so?” rejoined the lady.

“Because,” said the girl, “Jesus Christ has died for sinners, and I am a sinner!”

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Timothy 1:15.

ML 02/20/1938

The Value of a Name

I was in a Grain Market, and according to the custom there, after the market is over, the buyer the seller meet together in another room to settle for the purchases of the day. Payment is made in various ways, my habit being to pay by a check on one of the banks.

I had on that day bought a quantity of wheat from a farmer, and on handing him a check for the money—after carefully looking at it in a somewhat suspicious manner, he said,

“But do you think the bank will pay it?”

“O yes,” I said. “It’s all right; they will pay it.”

“But,” said he, “I have no money in the bank.”

“But I have,” I answered; “and you have my signature to the check, and it does not depend upon what you have in the bank, but what I have; and if it is not right, come back again.”

On my word of assurance he departed; though whether he was fully persuaded in his own mind until he had received the money, I cannot tell. At any rate, he never returned.

Now, dear young friend, is this not a good illustration of Christ’s own words in John 16:23:

“Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father, in My name, He will give it you?”

Are we not, like this farmer, anxious to go in our own names to God’s bank to draw from our own funds, forgetting that we have nothing in our own account, instead of going in the precious Name of Jesus in whom “all fullness dwells,” and who has never yet sent a poor seeking sinner away empty.

Man’s banks of gold have often failed, hut God’s resources never fail; for we are “not redeemed with corruptible things as silver and gold, but with the precious blood of Christ,” “O! the depth of His riches.” We read in Eph. 6:32.

“God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you;” and in 1 John 2:12, “Your sins are forgiven you for His name’s sake.”

Dear young friend, doubt not nor hesitate any longer, but remember that at once you may have “boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus.” Hell, 10:19.

“Why will ye doubting stand,

Why still delay?”

ML 02/20/1938

A House on a Wall

Joshua 2

Two young men were sent by Joshua to see the city of Jericho. Like most of the great cities of that time, it had a high wall, so wide, that a house was built on it, where a woman, named Rahab, lived. No doubt it had steps up from the inside of the wall, and these men came there.

The king heard about the men, and he did not want them to carry back a report of the city, so he sent his men to take them.

Rahab knew the king would do harm to the men, and she wanted to save them because she had heard of God’s great power to Israel. So she hid the men under some flax which she had drying on her roof. And she told the king’s men they had gone away, and for them to hurry after them.

Then she talked with the men of Israel, telling them how frightened the people of Jericho were, because they had heard how God had brought the camp of Israel out of Egypt, and not long before had saved them from the wicked kings across Jordan. She seemed to have heard that they would come against Jericho, and she asked the men to promise to save her and her father, mother, brothers and sisters. They said they would do so if all would be in her house when they came again to Jericho.

It was then night, and she let the two men down to the ground outside the wall from her window, by a scarlet rope. And they told her to fasten that same rope from her window, so they could see it when they came to save her.

Do you not think that Rahab would begin at once to tell her relatives, and perhaps her friends and neighbors, that the only way for them to be saved from the dreadful judgment that was to come upon Jericho, was to come into her house?

May we too, tell all whom we know, that the only way for them to be saved from the dreadful judgment that is surely coming on this poor, Christ-rejecting world, is to come to the Lord Jesus Christ, through Whom alone salvation is to be found.

The men hid in the hills and got safely back to the camp, and told Joshua all that had happened. Later we find they kept the promise to Rahab.

Perhaps you notice that Rahab told the king’s men what was untrue. God could have saved her and the men from the king if she had told the truth. Rahab lived among a wicked people, and had herself sinned, but when she heard of the Lord, she believed in Him, and said, “The Lord, your God, He is God in heaven above, and in earth beneath.”

Later God gave her great honor, so she must have given up her wrong ways.

God has always shown mercy to any who will believe in Him.

Do you notice Rahab did not wait to ask to be saved until the trouble came?

“Behold now is the accepted time; bold now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:2.

ML 02/20/1938

Rahab's Scarlet Line

Rahab heard, believed, and without delay

She hastened the Word of Life to obey.

Her fears were all gone, for by oath and by word

Salvation and peace to her house were secured.

Ah, say, has your faith like Rahab’s of old,

On the Word of the God of Truth laid hold?

Have you bound in your heart the scarlet line?

Can you say, The Saviour of sinners is mine?

For the day of the Lord is near at hand,

And who before Him may abide to stand

When trembling nature shall quiver with fear,

And the earth depart like a hunted deer?

ML 02/20/1938

The Crocodile

If there is a beast that can rival the snake for ugliness and the horror it inspires, it is surely the crocodile, yet this great creature is looked upon as a god by many black tribes.

The Egyptians built for him, temples containing large basins, carved in marble. Many cities near the Nile, from Memphis to Thebes, had sacred crocodiles.

These horrible reptiles had no need to hide in the mire to lie in wait for cattle who came to drink in the river, or even for human flesh. Well nourished with delicate meats, which were brought to them by numerous servants, and presented on the end of golden prongs; and they also received, on certain days, the worship and the prayers of the people. It was a happy omen when these monsters devoured greedily, not only the flesh of the victims sacrificed, but cakes made of fine flour, with wine and hydromel.

The inhabitants of Central Africa and Madagascar also had the same superstitious fear and the same worship. Many negro tribes worship the crocodiles as gods; they have feasts in their honor when they dance at the sound of weird music, and parade upon the shore of the river.

In this land of Bibles, we do not see such heathen worship; and we may well be thankful for it; but God holds us much more responsible, and if we refuse Christ as our Saviour, we shall be lost for eternity, just as the poor heathen who have not heard of Him.

“WHOSO TRUSTETH IN THE LORD, HAPPY IS HE.” Prov. 16:20.

ML 02/27/1938

"I Do Love You, Mother!"

Some years ago I knew a lady who had been sick for two years, she had only one child, a little boy.

One afternoon. as I was sitting by her side, little Harry came and put his arms round his mother’s neck, and laying his head on her breast said “I love you, mother. I wish you were not sick.”

This soothed Harry’s mother, who loved her little boy. But an hour later the same boy came into the room all aglow, shaking the snow from his feet, and said, “O mother! may I go skating? Edward and Charlie are going.”

“No, Harry dear,” said his mother feebly.

“It is too bad,” sobbed the boy.

“I would like my little boy to go,” said his mother, “but I feel sure the ice is not strong enough yet;” then, looking at Harry, whose face was covered with frowns,

“You said you loved me, now be a good boy.”

“No, I don’t love you now, mother,” said the boy, going-out and slamming the door.

We thought no more of the boy, but I noticed the tears falling fast upon her pillow, and she sank into a light sleep.

In a little while we heard the muffled steps of some men coming into the house, as if carrying something.

What had happened?

Simply this: Harry had left his mother in anger, and in direct disobedience had gone to skate. The ice, as his mother had said, was very thin; it broke, and let Harry into the water. He was only saved from a watery grave by the prompt action of these men who were near the spot.

I closed the door, feeling there was more danger for her life than the boy’s, and coming softly back to her bed, she said,

“I heard them, it is Harry; O, I knew he went. Is he dead?”

She did not seem to hear my answer, but a violent fit of coughing came on during which she passed away from this world to be forever with the Lord.

In an hour’s time I went to the boy’s room to see how he was. I could not tell him then that his mother had gone. He said,

“I wish I hadn’t told mother I didn’t love her; tomorrow I’ll tell her I do,” and the child sobbed. The next day he came running to her room and said,

“Mother, I do love you,” and leaned over to kiss her lips, but they were cold and lifeless, there was no response, also the hand he touched was cold and heavy. His sorrow was very real as he repeated,

“Mother, I do love you, I do love you,” but it was now too late to hear her voice again on earth.

After this, the boy’s whole life was changed, he has always since been sober and sad. He is now an old man, but he can never forget that one great act of disobedience in his boyhood, and the last words that his mother heard him say, and which he would have given all the world to recall, or to be able to apologize for.

Will the boys and girls who read this story remember that every-act of disobedience, naughty behavior or cross words are like arrows in their mothers’ hearts; and more than that, God takes account of it, for He has said,

“Children, obey your parents.”

On the other hand, such is God’s great love to us, that though we grieve Him with our sins, yet He gave His dear Son to suffer and die on Calvary’s tree that all our sins might be washed away by His precious blood, and we made fit for the holy presence of God.

It is, however, by faith in. Christ that forgiveness and blessing, comes to us; hence, dear reader, let me urge you not to delay in trusting yourself to that blessed One who has proved His love by bearing our sins in His own body on the tree.

Then you will indeed be able to say,

“He loved Me and gave Himself for Me,” Galatians 2:20.

The Apostle Paul it was who made use of these words, and we may use them too, if we first own the Lord Jesus as our own Saviour.

God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8.

ML 02/27/1938

"His Right Name"

How eager children are to run after anything that is being given away in the street. I was in the district of W—with a friend of mine, giving away gospel books, after which we held a children’s meeting on the green.

The children sat round in a ring. The little ones in front and the older ones at the back, and all were pleased to join in the singing. But after a few weeks the interest wore off, and the numbers decreased.

On one occasion at the close of our meeting we were walking away with some tracts in our hands, and giving them to passers-by.

I met two girls and handed one to both of them, and stood chatting with them, when up, ran a little boy, brother to one of the girls, I said to him,

“Well! Tommy, would you like a book?” While I was giving him one his sister remarked,

“You have called him by his right name.”

I did not know his name was Tommy, but the girl’s remark reminded me of the fact that we are all well known to God, He knows our right name, and we are all of the same name in His estimation.

If you just take your Bible and read carefully Romans 3, you will see that all are on the same level—sinners. All have sinned, and none doeth good, not even one.

But we need not remain in that condition. God has provided a Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ, who, as the Shepherd, has given His life for the sheep. He is known by the sheep, and He knows their names, and calls them by their names. He goes before them and leads them, and they follow Him, because they know His voice. (See John 10.)

Well now, dear children, do you know His voice? Are you among the sinners or the sheep?

It is His delight to fold the tender lambs in His bosom, and you may be among them. The number will never be too great for His loving arms to embrace, and if you put your simple trust in Him you may be conscious of being folded in them.

“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish.” John 10:27,28.

ML 02/27/1938

A Sunday School Class

In speaking today to some children, I put some questions and received answers as follows:

“Why did God’s Son come into the world?”

“To redeem and save us.”

“What did He do to redeem and save us?”

“He died for our sins on the cross.” “How do we get the benefit of His death on the cross?”

Here the bright little girl that had given the other answers, rather hung her head, and said under her breath that she didn’t know the answer to that.

Well, my dear young readers, I daresay most of you could give an answer and it would be something like this:

“By believing on Him,” and this would be a fine answer, but I will tell you what I told those children today.

I read to them the fourth verse of the first chapter of Leviticus: “And he shall put his hand upon the head of the burnt offering; and it shall be accepted for him to make atonement for him.”

Then I told them that in the days of Moses, people, if they sinned, used to bring a bullock, or a lamb, or a kid, and offer it to the Lord. Its blood was shed, and the person who had sinned and brought this offering had just to lay his hand on the animal’s head, and it was accepted for him. But Jesus Christ has already died on the cross to redeem and save us, and God has raised Him up from dead and put Him at His own right hand in heaven. Now, God has accepted the offering, and it only remains for us to lay our hands on the head of the offering, each for himself.

Do you, dear child, feel the burden of your sins? Christ has offered Himself to God; His precious blood has been shed. Come, then, to God with Christ as your offering, saying not only that Christ died for sinners, but that “Christ died for me.” He is my offering. Fear then, no longer.

“He shall lay his hand upon the head of the offering and it shall be accepted for him.” Not for someone else, but for hint. Rest, dear child, in the work of Jesus, and in the word of God, which says,

“The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7.

ML 02/27/1938

Crossing a Wide River

Joshua 3

The people of Israel were ready to go into Canaan, but between them and that land was a wide, deep, river, and there were no bridges or boats.

The river was not always so wide, but in the warm season of the year the snow on the mountain tops in the north, where the river began, melted, and so much water came swiftly down the river, that it overflowed the banks, and no one could cross it. It was just at that time that the camp of Israel came to cross.

There has never been a report of such a large company anywhere to be moved at one time, as that big camp of Israel. No one knows just how many people there were. But from Numbers 26:51-62, we learned there were 601,730 grown men, besides those of the tribe of Levi, and there must also have been very many thousands of women and boys and girls and little ones besides there were great herds of cattle and sheep to be led or driven; and the many annuals carrying the loads with all their tents; and also, the Tabernacle.

Yet God had said they were to cross over: how could this be clone? They were to see a wonder which only God could do.

You remember about the chest, called the ark, which was very beautiful, but covered over when they marched, and was where the cloud of God rested (Ex. 25:10-23). This was to go before them. And when they saw the men carrying the ark start forward, they were to start, but not to crowd close, but leave a long space between.

The men with the ark walked into the very edge of the water, and stood still, while Joshua spoke to all the people and said, “Behold the ark of the covenant of the Lord of all the earth passeth over before you into Jordan,” and he told them the waters should be stopped.

And so they were; the water on their right stood up in a heap far from them, and the water on the left also stopped, leaving the river dry for a very wide space, and the men with the ark stood still in the middle, while all the great company went over the dry sand. Was not this a wonderful event?

Look for the River Jordan on the eastern edge of a map of Palestine. Israel crossed near where it empties into the Dead Sea opposite the place marked Jericho.

Note: Numbers 31:32,33,34 gives a part of the number of animals of Israel, so we may form an idea of the great number they had.

ML 02/27/1938

Answers to Bible Questions for January

“The Children’s Class”

1.“Behold the fowls,” etc. Matt. 6:26.

2.“While he spake,” etc. 9:18.

3.“And when they,” etc. 2:11.

4.“But the men,” etc. 8:27.

5.“And they straightway,” etc. 4:20.

6.“And Jesus,” etc. 3:16,

7.“And she shall,” etc. 1:21.

Bible Questions for March

“The Children’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in Matthew, chapters 19-28

1.Write in full the verse containing the words, “As the Lord appointed me.”

2.Write in full the verse containing the words, “The Lord hath need of them.”

3.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Come, see the place where the Lord lay.”

4.Write in full the verse containing the words, “The LORD said unto my Lord.”

5.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.”

6.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.”

7.Why did the young man, who came to the Lord Jesus, go away sorrowful?

Answers to Bible Questions for January

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

1.By quoting the Word of God. Matthew 4:4,7,10.

2.No. Matthew 7:22.

3.By healing those so afflicted. Matthew 8:16-17,4,.

4.Believers. Matthew 5:13.

5.In the house. Matthew 2:11.

6.Saviour. Matthew 1:21.

7.False professors who worked in the Name of Christ. Matthew 7:21-23.

Bible Questions for March

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

The Answers are to be found in Matthew, chapters 19-28

1.What is the secret of being truly great and chief?

2.What power did the Lord claim at the close of His ministry?

3.Where does the Lord definitely pronounce eternal punishment?

4.Why did the Sadducees err?

5.What shall be the sign for the faithful Jewish remnant to flee in the coming tribulation?

6.Out of whose mouth has the Lord perfected wisdom?

7.Where did the Lord definitely prophesy His condemnation and death?

ML 03/06/1938

How Little Willie Became a Preacher

When I am big enough,” said little Willie one day, “I want to be a preacher.”

“What is a preacher?” asked his grandmother.

Willie, who was very much astonished at this question, said: “But, don’t you know, grandma? A preacher is a man who reads to the people from the Bible and explains it, and who says at the close, ‘Thirdly, my beloved.’... ‘I find it nice to have hearers.’” Grandma smiled and said:

“I think you are big enough now to begin to preach.” Willie opened his eyes wide and said:

“Do you really mean this, grandma?” After a pause he said: “I have no fear to preach, but I don’t know how.”

“What does the preacher do first?” asked grandma.

“He selects his text and then explains it I could not do this.”

“O, yes, indeed you could,” said grandma. “Here, for instance, is a nice text you could expound to me:

‘Be ye kind one to another.”’ Eph. 4:32.

“But that does not need explaining, said Willie; “one needs simply to be kind to everybody; that’s all.”

“But it is none the less a nice text for my little Willie’s first sermon. I would like to have you preach on this one week.

“To preach on this text for one week, grandma, how could this be possible?”

“Say, Willie, can you not be kind to all with whom you have to do, for a week?”

Willie looked thoughtful, then said astonished:

“Would that be a sermon?”

“It certainly would be the best sermon you could preach, my little man. A good preacher must himself do what he tells others to do, or else no one cares to hear him. At any rate the living sermon is the strongest one. The Saviour does not want words only, but deeds. The people, too, want to see in the preacher what they hear from him.”

“Well,” said Willie with a deep sigh, “I think I might make an attempt with this sermon, but I have never thought of this kind of a sermon.”

“I am much pleased, my dear, to hear you will be a preacher from tomorrow,” said grandma. “Remember your text: ‘Be ye kind one to another!’ Expound it well; show to all its meaning.”

And Willie began. The first thing next morning he said to himself:

“It would not be kind to the teacher if I should whisper in school today, so I will not do it.”

So Willie was careful and never whispered once. This gave the teacher joy. She was pleased with Willie’s sermon, yes, all the more, since the sermon was continued the next day, and so on every day in the week.

During recess, and on the way home from school, Willie had often amused himself by annoying his schoolmates and had been into all manner of mischief at the cost of others. But now, since he had become “preacher,” he remembered well his text:

“Be ye kind one to another.”

The evening of the first day his grandmother said:

“Willie, how did you get along with your sermon?”

“O,” said the young preacher, “this is a long sermon from morning till night, but I got along very well; the Saviour helped me.”

Willie continued daily to preach on this beautiful text. Later on his grandmother gave him yet many other texts, and though the young preacher often stumbled his Saviour ever reminded him of his lesson, for Willie loved Him in his heart.

And now, dear children, what do you think? Would it not be nice if every Sunday school scholar, big and little, boys and girls, who love the Lord would become such preachers? Will you not, by the grace of God, begin today?

ML 03/06/1938

Do You Know the Lord?

Do you know the Lord Jesus as your own Saviour?”

I asked this question of a woman, who had passed by some years the “seventy” appointed to man, and whose snowy hair showed that the winter of life had settled upon her. Her reply was—

“I trust Him night and day. I’ve no one else to trust.”

No one else! Who else is needed? Who so worthy of our trust as the blessed Son of God? and who so faithful to the confidence placed in Him? What saith the Scripture?

“Blessed (or, Happy) are all they that put their trust in Him.” Psalms 2:12.

“Whoso trusteth in the Lord, happy is he.” Proverbs 16:20.

ML 03/06/1938

A Mother's Love

Our picture today appears to be very interesting. It is almost a story in itself. The surroundings seem to be very plain, but the children look to be happy over their baby brother. Notice how the mother is smiling at her darling baby. It is because she loves him.

I wonder, dear children, if you know the One whose love for you and me is stronger than a mother’s? Ah! dear children, it is the Lord Jesus Christ, the Saviour of sinners. He is the One who left the glory to die on the cross that those, who put their trust in Him might someday live with Him in glory.

Come to Jesus now, dear children, and accept Him as your Saviour. He wants you to be His little lamb, and when you once are His, you can never be lost, because he says, they shall never perish.” Would you not like to have that promise of never being lost, but saved for eternity? If so, accept the Lord Jesus Christ today.

“BELIEVE ON THE LORD JESUS CHRIST, AND THOU SHALT BE SAVED.” Acts 16:31.

ML 03/06/1938

Stones from the River

Joshua 4

After the people of Israel had safely crossed the dry road made in the Jordan River; while the men holding the ark were still standing in their place, Joshua sent twelve men, one from each tribe, to each take a stone from that place, and carry them on their shoulders to the side where the people were, in Canaan.

This the men did, and set them down there.

Then Joshua set up twelve other stones, in the midst of the river, in the place where the men with the ark stood, and those were left there.

After all this was done as God had said, He told Joshua to tell the men with the ark, to come up out of the river, and they came out to the place where all the people were.

Then God allowed the water to flow again, and there was so much that it again overflowed the banks.

But the people of Israel and the ark were safe in Canaan.

Joshua set up the twelve stones which the men had brought from the river, at the camping place in Canaan.

People still use stones to mark places, often very beautiful ones. Perhaps those twelve stones from Jordan were very plain. Yet, when the small children, who did not see or remember, the crossing of Jordan, would ask, “What mean these stones?” their parents would tell them how the great company crossed the Jordan on dry ground while the ark was in the midst. So the children would learn of the greatness of God in bringing them to that good land.

Those stones remind us of still greater power: as the ark was in the river, and the people could pass safely across, so Christ was in the place of death that we might he saved; and as the ark was taken up to the other side, so He was raised out of death, which gives His people peace and joy.

The twelve stones in the river, which the waters covered over and only God could see, remind us how He counts His people to have been in that place of death with Christ.

ML 03/06/1938

Trusting Jesus, Only

I would follow Jesus

Closely in the way,

Going where He pleases,

Loving to obey;

On His arm be leaning

In this weary place,

Constantly be tasting

Of His precious grace.

Learning very sweetly

Lessons of His grace,—

Catching, through the portals,

Glimpses of His face,

Shining from the glory.

Of my home above,

Shedding sunshine o’er me,

Telling of His love.

Trusting Jesus only,

Keeping by His side,

Taking Him who’s worthy

As my trusty Guide;

Gently to the haven,

Nearing day by day,

I would walk with Jesus—

Jesus is “the Way.”

ML 03/06/1938

Jerusalem From the Mount of Olives

Of all the cities of this world, I suppose we may say Jerusalem is the most noted. It is the place where God had seen fit to put His Name. It was there the wonderful temple stood that Solomon had built which was God’s house then, and the people there were God’s people, and they owned Him as their God, although the hearts of many of them were far from Him.

When the Lord Jesus came near to Jerusalem, at the descent of the mount of Olives and a multitude of His disciples with Him, they rejoiced and praised God with a loud voice for all the mighty works that they had seen, “Saying, Blessed he the King that cometh in the name of the Lord: peace in heaven, and glory in the highest.” Luke 19:38. Then the Lord had to answer them,

“I tell you that, if these would hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out. And when He came near, He beheld the city, and wept over it.”

He knew what would happen to that city, for they would reject Him, they would cry out, “Away with Him, we will not have this Man to reign over us.” They would put Him on the cross between two thieves, and rejoice that they were getting rid of Him. But O, the sorrow it brought to them.

The city was destroyed, according to the Lord’s word, not one stone left upon another, and many of the people were slain, and the rest from all over the country were scattered among the nations of the world.

Now I ask you, dear reader, How is it with you? Are you still rejecting God’s Son, the Lord Jesus Christ? What will your punishment be? For you not only know the wonderful works of God among them, which they knew of, too, but you know the terrible results.

“HOW SHALL WE ESCAPE, IF WE NEGLECT SO GREAT SALVATION.” Hebrews 2:3.

ML 03/13/1938

God's Care for the Shepherd Boy

In a lonely valley in Scotland lived a poor shepherd, named Robin. He was nearly eighty years old, and his beard and hair were white as snow.

His wife and children were dead, and there was only left to him a little grandson, whom he called Jimmy. Jimmy dearly loved his grandfather, who had taken him to his home when he became an orphan, and was the only friend he had in the world. The shepherd taught Jimmy to read, and when the old man’s eyes were dimmed with age, it gave him great pleasure to hear little Jimmy read two or three chapters to him every evening. Jimmy was pleased, above all, to see Jesus Christ spoken of as the Good Shepherd, for the little boy took care of his grandfather’s flock. When sitting on the top of a mountain, eating his dinner, often a piece of dry cake, he would say to himself,

“If I, who am but a child, am able to take care of a flock, how much more able is Jesus Christ to take care of those He calls His sheep. The children are little lambs, and I am sure He always guards them with tenderness. What did my grandfather say when children did not obey their parents, as God has ordered them? ‘Some evil will befall them like my stray lambs.’”

The time which Jimmy passed all alone on the top of the mountains never seemed to him long, and besides his Bible, he had his little book of hymns, which he liked to learn by heart.

Robin had a dog, named Watch, which had been of great service to him. The faithful creature followed jimmy every morning when he went out with his flock; and when the little shepherd was tired with reading and reflecting, he would play with his dog. The good dog loved him so much that he never left him; and if Jimmy hid from him, Watch was never easy till he found him. One day Jimmy forgot his duty, and wishing to make a sling, like King David when he was a shepherd boy, he left his grandfather’s flock and ran to the house to look for a cord. It was very naughty, and Jimmy ran back to his sheep as fast as he could, for his conscience told him he was guilty; but when he reached the mountain, he saw that four of his sheep were gone; he looked on all sides, but he could not see them; he went up higher, but saw nothing. He ran home directly and told the truth to his grandfather, who, instead of being angry, put his hand upon his head, and said, “The sheep are probably gone to the right side of the mountain to go into the other pastures; go and look for them, my child: make haste, for it will snow soon. Bring home your flock quickly.”

When Jimmy reached the top of the mountain the snow was falling, and the ground was soon white, Old Robin began to repent that he had told Jimmy to go out; for he knew that if the poor child were once to lose his road on the mountains when they were covered with snow, he would not be able to find it again all night, and that he would be dead with cold before morning. The old man sat near the window, listening with anxiety. The shades of nigh grew thicker and thicker, and at last the old man could see nothing, and he made up the fire. He was very uneasy about the child; he saw in a corner of the room the little stool on which Jimmy sat every night, and his eyes filled with tears. He did not hear any noise in the village; the people were all gone into their houses to take shelter from the storm; he heard nothing but the wind in the valley, and the ticking of the clock, which was placed in the corner of the room; at last it struck seven. Robin fell on his knees, and prayed God to restore him his poor child. While he was praying, the tears ran down his cheeks, though he did not forget that God has promised to help those who put their trust in Him. Old Robin then put on his coat, and was going to his neighbor Mackay, to beg him to go and look for Jimmy, when he heard a scratching at the door, What do you think he saw when he opened it? Do not be disappointed; it was not Jimmy, but only his good dog Watch, Poor dog! when he saw Robin he gave a sad glance at him, and then ran a little way from the door and came back again. The dog wanted to make the old man understand that he came to show the way to the place where his little master was.

Robin then went as fast as he was able to his neighbor, Mackay.

“What is the matter, my friend?” said John Mackay; and having heard, he at once said, “I shall go and look on all sides for jimmy. Courage, my good neighbor; do not despond. God has not left your dear Jimmy. No, no, Robin; you will have him again.”

He was going to add something, but Watch interrupted him by jumping upon him and running towards the door.

“Well, Watch, well,” said he, “go on before, and I will follow you.”

And on very fast he went, but not so fast as the dog wished. Watch ran always in front, when suddenly the dog stopped, but Mackay heard him uttering bitter cries. Mackay then came up, and saw Watch scraping the snow with all hip might. A moment after, he heard a feeble voice which said,

“Help me, save me”; and he saw the head of little Jimmy appearing, above the snow.

The poor child had fallen into a deep hole, which was nearly full of snow, and his little body was almost buried. He was so feeble and benumbed with the cold that he could not move; and Mackay had a great deal of trouble to take him out.

When Mackay reached his house, and old Robin saw Jimmy motionless on Mackay’s shoulders, he covered his face with his hands, and all his body trembled; but Mackay said,

“Did not I tell you to put your confidence in God?”

When these kind neighbors saw how weak the boy was, they put him in their own bed, made him take some hot porridge, rubbed his benumbed limbs, and took off his wet clothes, the old man watching all the time near the bed. The night’s rest did Jimmy a great deal of good; and the next morning, when all in the house met round the breakfast table, and while Watch was placed at the feet of his young master, Jimmy told all that had happened to him.

In trying to find the sheep, as his grandfather told him, he had fallen into the hole out of which the good Mackay had taken him.

“When Watch saw me,” said he, “in danger, he seemed not to know what to do; at one time he pulled me, and then, all of a sudden, he ran away as fast as he was able. When I was alone, I asked God to take me out of that dreadful place,”

Thus you see that God cares for those who put their trust in Him.

“Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord.” Jeremiah 17:7.

“Trust in Him at all times.” Psalms 62:8.

ML 03/13/1938

God Loves Sinners

A father once heard one of his little boys say to his brother,

“If you are naughty, father won’t love you!” His father called him, and said,

“My boy, you must never say that. It is not true.”

Is it not true father? Will you love us if we are naughty?”

“Yes,” said Ids father. “When you are good, I love you with a love that makes me glad; but when you are naughty, I love you; but it is with a love that makes me sorry.”

That is like God’s love. He loves the sinner, but it is a sad love, a love which longs to see the sinner different.

“God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son.” John 3:16. “God commendeth His love to us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8.

The Beginning in the New Land

It was on the tenth day of the first month of their year that the people of Israel came up from the Jordan River and made their first camp in the land of Canaan (Josh. 4:19).

They were the children, grown to be men and women, whose parents were slaves in Egypt; perhaps some of them could remember the crossing of the Red Sea. Their parents could not enter Canaan because they had not believed God’s power to help them. He had told them their children should have the land, and now that was to come true. And He gave them the chance to keep His laws and have His blessings.

They kept the passover feast on the 14th day of the month, at this camping place, which was called Gilgal. The tune of the Passover in our land is our spring season, but in Canaan it is the harvest time. And the next day after the Passover, they ate of the grain of Canaan. The next day the small, white ‘manna did not lie on the ground for them to gather, as it had all the forty years, but their food was the grain and fruit of the land (Joshua 5:10-13).

As we read of these people and their new life in Canaan, we think of the new start God gives all who trust in Jesus: to keep His words and honor Him. He does not now promise houses or fields, but joy and peace and to learn of Him.

ML 03/13/1938

Abraham and Isaac

Children, will you hear the story?

Will you quietly attend?

Hear what once the God of glory

Said to Abraham, his friend?

Children, did not sorrow fill him

When the Lord told him to go,

Take the son he loved, and kill him

In the place that He should show?

But the friend of God obeyed Him;

With his son he journeyed on;

Tied him, on the altar laid him,

Took the knife to kill his son!

But the Lord did not afflict him,

Though He tried his faith so far;

God had found another victim;

O, how great His mercies are!

And He always will deliver

All who put their trust in Him,

God is love, and loves forever,

Like a light that can’t grow dim!

But there once was One forsaken,

Though He did His Father’s will;

Jesus to the cross was taken,

There the sinner’s place to fill.

Think, O think, what Christ has suffered;

Think, the love that God has shown—

Spared the son that Abraham offered;

But He did not spare His Own.

ML 03/13/1938

A Little Ship was on the Sea

When the Lord Himself was in the vessel with His disciples, as the lines tell us,

“It sailed along so pleasantly, And all was calm and bright.”

How graphic is the scene depicted,

“The sun was sinking in the west.” All appeared so bright and happy, and the disciples were at rest as to reaching home in safety.

But, as is often the case in this world, a change passed over the scene in a few moments, the brightness and peacefulness were gone, the sea was in turmoil, and the winds blew wildly.

But happily they had the Lord in the ship, and the storm served but an occasion to show forth His marvelous power; while on the part of the disciples, it proved how little confidence they had in that blessed One in their midst.

Who could sink in the waters with the Lord of life and glory, there? Yet they had some thought of His love and power, for in their distress, instinctively they turn to Him and in answer to their cry, almost of despair:

“He rose, rebuked the winds and waves,

And stilled them with a word.”

So it is ever now with those who look to Him in distress. No winds are too boisterous for Him to still; no wave too great for His power, for all must yield before His mighty word. How sweet the peace that follows the storm! How calm the rest!

“COME UNTO ME, ALL YE THAT LABOR AND ARE HEAVY LADEN, AND I WILL GIVE YOU REST.” Matthew 11:28.

ML 03/13/1938

The Schoolboy's Prayer

A brave schoolboy, a true follower of Christ, who never feared to own his Lord before his fellows, and who was used in leading many of them to the Saviour, passed away to be with Christ.

Two of his companions returning from his burial, were overheard conversing together about their departed comrade.

“I wonder what was the secret of his fearless confession of Christ?” said one.

“I never seem to have courage to own the Lord among my schoolmates at all, unless anyone asks me if I am a Christian, and even then I often give them a muffled answer.”

“I don’t know,” replied his companion; “but I wish I knew. Jack was an out-and-out Christian: everybody knew he was saved, and his life as well as his lips showed it. I only wish that I could witness for Christ as he did.”

A friend who overheard the boys’ conversation said,

“Would you like to know what was the secret of Jack’s decided testimony for Christ?

“Yes, very much,” replied the two boys.

“Well, I think we have it in a small slip of paper which was found yesterday in his Bible, with several verses written on it, ‘On confessing Christ’,” and under them the following lines,

My Daily Prayer.

“O God, give me courage to own my Lord always, and everywhere, and to fear none but Thee.”

The boys looked at each other and nodded their assent. No doubt this was the secret of Jack’s constant and consistent life and testimony for his Lord. He walked before God in His fear, and was not disturbed or put to silence by “the fear of man which bringeth a snare.”

I daresay many who are saved know what the fear of man is, and what it does. Has it closed the lips and put a stop to all true testimony for Jesus? The best, yea, the only cure for it is, to walk in the fear of the Lord, and as dear Jack’s daily prayer put it, “to fear none” but the Lord.

To maintain a bright and steady confession of Christ, you must have your soul fed on the Word, and strengthened by the grace of God. You cannot do it by mere determination, or by good resolutions. If your soul is kept happy in the love of Christ, then you will find no difficulty in speaking forth to others the praises of His Name.

You will find joy in telling others of what gladdens your own soul, and yields you true satisfaction and delight.

“Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before My Father which is in heaven. But whosoever shall deny Me before men, him will I also deny before My Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 10:32,33.

ML 03/20/1938

Do You Want to be Saved?

A soldier boy had been troubled because of his sins. He had tried to find peace, but somehow he had not found it,

“Tommy,” said the chaplain; “did you ever hear how Jack got to be a soldier?”

“No sir,” said Tommy, “how was it?”

“Jack was only eighteen,” explained the chaplain. “He applied for admission in the army. He was refused.

“‘You are two inches short,’ the officer told him. ‘And you have that crippled foot.’

“Jack was heart-broken. He could never be a soldier, he thought. He told me about it one day.

“‘I’ll tell you what you can do,’ I said. ‘I have a friend who is a doctor. He trains young athletes. Put yourself in his hands. He’ll make a soldier out of you, I promise.’

“Jack went to the doctor and talked things over.

“‘If you’ll quit depending on that brace, and put yourself in my hands, I’ll make a soldier of you,’ the doctor promised.

“Jack did that very thing. He took off his brace and put himself in the door’s hands. He did as the doctor said. He depended on him. The doctor fixed his bad foot. He gave him some special treatments. And he made good his promise. He made a soldier out of Jack.”

“God makes you a promise just as that doctor did. He says, ‘Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.’ That means put yourself in Jesus’ hands.” Tommy drew a long breath.

“Why, sir,” he said, “is it as simple as that? I can trust Him to save me right now.”

Tommy did just that. He put himself into the hands of Jesus. He depended on Jesus to save him. And he found the peace that passeth understanding—it is the peace of heart that Jesus Christ gives to all who really trust Him.

The Bible makes it very clear that one does not become a Christian when he reaches a certain age, nor because his father and mother are Christians; that one does not become a Christian because he goes to Sunday school and church, nor because he tries to be honest and truthful. He becomes a Christian only by believing on Jesus as his Saviour from sin.

Here are three verses that tell you how to be saved,

“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.” John 3:16.

“He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” John 3:36.

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31.

ML 03/20/1938

Little Elsie

A little girl named Elsie,

Of four or five years old

(Whose parents were in heaven

And safe in Jesus’ fold),

Was taught in early childhood

To love His precious name;

And in His Word believing

A Christian thus became.

Now, Elsie had a brother,

And Jesus was his joy,

She also had another—

A wild and wayward boy.

And by his naughty manners,

His sister’s heart he grieved,

She wished he loved the Saviour,

And on His name believed.

One day her elder brother

Met Elsie on the stairs,

Her face seemed full of sorrow,

Her mind seemed full of cares.

“What ails my little Elsie?

And what has made her cry?”

But Elsie seemed unwilling’

To tell the reason why.

He lovingly embraced her

And asked her yet again—

“What is the little trouble

Which gives my sister pain?”

At length she gently whispered,

While looking on the floor.

“I’se just been asking Jesus—”

And then she said no more!

Her brother seemed astonished,

But joy was in his face,

To find his little sister

Had sought the throne of grace.

Then Elsie, gaining courage,

Her secet told to him—

“I’se just been asking Jesus

To save dear brother Jim!”

“Pray on, my little sister,”

Her brother then replied,

“And always go to Jesus,

And in His love confide;

For He is ever faithful

To those who trust in Him;

And may our gracious Saviour

Soon save dear brother Jim.

For even naughty children,

Are objects of His care;

No doubt that He will answer

My little sister’s prayer.

He bids us not be weary,

But always watch and pray,

And from a child’s petition

He will not turn away.

And though He is in glory,

And angels worship Him,

He hears the prayer of Elsie,

To save dear brother Jim.”

“This is the confidence that we have in Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He heareth us: And if we know that He hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions we desired of Him” 1 John 5:14,15.

ML 03/20/1938

The Great Captain of Israel

Joshua 5:13-15

We have read of Joshua as the leader or captain of Israel but there was another Captain greater than he. Joshua saw that One standing before him, with a sword in His hand. He told Joshua He had come as Captain of the host (army) of the Lord.

It must have given Joshua courage to know this mighty One was over the army to conquer all enemies. The sword in His hand showed all evil must be punished, for He was holy and worthy to be obeyed.

We are not told of that great Captain being seen again, yet it was because of Him that the army of Israel won their battles. The nations of Canaan had become very wicked in their ways, but sadder still they were not sorry, and would not believe, or honor God. He has always shown great patience to all, but at last sends punishment.

Since the Lord Jesus came to earth, meek and patient, His people are not told to fight with swords: yet there is a war now even for boys and girls, if they love the Lord Jesus. God has given them precious lessons in the Bible to enjoy. But there are those who try to keep them from knowing and enjoying God’s Words.

Some say the Bible is only part true: some say it is all a fable: others say it cannot be meant for us now.

When we hear those doubts we are to answer by the words of the Bible, that is the Christian’s sword. This sword will also drive away our own doubts and wrong thoughts, by which Satan is able to tempt us to doubt God’s love (Eph. 6:17).

“The Word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword.” Hebrews 4:12.

ML 03/20/1938

The Shepherd

The shepherd and his flock have been down to the river, and he has led his flock across. As our Lord says of a good shepherd, he goes before, and the sheep follow. Not all in the same manner, however; some enter boldly, and come straight across. These are the loved ones of the flock, who keep near by the footsteps of the shepherd, whether sauntering through the green meadows by the still waters, feeding upon the mountains, or resting at noon beneath the shadow of a great rock. And now others enter, but in doubt and alarm.

Now, can you watch such a scene, and not think of that One “Who leadeth His flock like a Shepherd?” He, too, goes before, and, as in the case of this flock, they who keep near Him, fear no evil. They hear His voice saying,

“When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee; and through the floods, they shall not overflow thee.” Isaiah 43:2.

“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand.

“My Father, which gave them Me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of My Father’s hand.”

“I and My Father are one.” John 10:27-30.

“I AM THE GOOD SHEPHERD: THE GOOD SHEPHERD GIVETH HIS LIFE FOR THE SHEEP.” John 10:11.

ML 03/27/1938

What Is Real Prayer?

Some years ago, a minister was doing temporary duty in a seaport town in France. He had three little children, whom he loved dearly and who loved him in return with all their hearts. One evening when they came to say good-night and give him their evening kiss, he said, “You must give me two kisses tonight, for I am going away, and you won’t see me again for several days.”

They threw their little arms round his neck and kissed him many times, but when they got to their bedroom they burst into tears at the thought of parting with their dear papa, their great grief being lest he should be drowned in the stormy sea, whose big waves they had been watching that very morning from the beach. The nurse tried to comfort them, but in vain, and long after they had been in bed she could hear them sobbing softly to themselves.

At last the elder child, a boy of six, said to his sister,

“I’ll tell you what we’ll do, Lizzie, we’ll pray.”

The two little ones then knelt up in their beds, and in their own simple words asked the Lord Jesus to take care of their clear papa and bring him back safe, and if a storm came on while he was in the ship, to say to the waves, “Peace, be still?” as He did when He was in the boat with the disciples. When the prayer was finished, the little boy said,

“Now, Lizzie, let us go to sleep,” and in five minutes they were slumbering peacefully, all their trouble forgotten.

Now the dear children who may read this true story will learn from it to answer the question I have put at the top. Real prayer is just asking God for what we want. Those little ones wanted the dear Saviour to take care of their father on the sea. They knew He could do it for had He not saved His own disciples when there was a great storm, and so they just asked Him to do it, and felt quite sure that He would. That is a very different thing from “saying our prayers.”

Many little ones, I fear, and grown up people, too, repeat very beautiful prayers with the lips, while their hearts and their thoughts are busy with other things. They don’t really ask God for anything at all. No wonder, then, if they get nothing; this will help us to understand what the Apostle James means when he says,

“Ye ask and receive not, because ye ask amiss” James 4:3.

Even a little child can pray, asking in the Name of Jesus, at every time of need. The Lord’s own words are:

“Ask and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full” John 16:24.

ML 03/27/1938

The Officer's Mistake

An officer was one day accosted by an artillery-man, who asked to speak with him.

The officer granted him his request. After a few words the man, with evident earnestness, asked,

“Are you ‘saved?’”

“Well,” replied the officer, who was a doubting believer, “I hardly know what you mean, but if you had asked me if I am going to heaven, I should have said,

‘I hope, so.’

The man looked straight at the officer, who, not being in uniform, supposed himself unrecognized, and said, “If I were to ask you if you were an officer in His Majesty’s army would you say, ‘I hope so?’”

From that day the officer never had a doubt as to his salvation; he took the Word of God just as it stands,

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31.

“By Him all that believe are justified from all things.” Acts 13:39.

“He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life.” John 3:36.

Dear reader, if you are a true believer, you belong to Christ, and God, and heaven, as much as that officer belonged to the British Army, and it is your privilege to be certain of it, for

“These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God, that ye may know that ye have eternal life,” 1 John 5:13.

ML 03/27/1938

The Bright and Blessed Day

The bright and blessed day will come

When Jesus we shall see,

And with Him in the glory bright

For evermore shall be.

The Shepherd’s heart will then rejoice

That all His lambs are there,

And every heart and every voice

In His great joy shall share.

The Lord will see us pure and bright,

And whiter than the snow,

And we shall be His heart’s delight,

Because He loves us so.

He then will sing and praise our God

For all His love and grace,

That we, who once were-far away,

Now stand before His face.

In His sweet song we too shall join,

All standing round His throne,

Like lilies in His garden fair,

Each pure and spotless one.

Let those who love Him bless His Name

For all the joy to come,

When we shall be with Christ above,

In God our Father’s home.

O! then we’ll praise Him for the joy

Of Jesus Christ our Lord,

For His eternal deep delight,

His endless bright reward.

ML 03/27/1938

"Plenty of Time for a Boy Like Me"

I’ve something to tell you,” said Wilfred W—one day as his aunt, who had just come to see her nephew, entered the room. Wilfred had just re-turned from school, where he was succeeding in his lessons very well, being a clever boy, and fond of his studies.

His aunt had heard lately how Wilfred had not only been taking an interest in his studies, but also in the study of the Word of God, and of this she was deeply thankful. So she replied,

“Well, what is it, Wilfred?” wishing to test him. “A new toy?”

“O no,” said Wilfred, “something so much better than that; the best thing of all!”

Wilfred knew that his aunt would guess by this that he had made some discovery she was only too anxious he should make. So in reply to her astonished look of joy and satisfaction and question how it came about, Wilfred continued;

“Well, you know it all came about like this. My Sunday school teacher said she wanted all her boys to come over to the Lord’s side and take the Lord Jesus as their Saviour and serve Him, and I said I did not want to, because I wanted to do as I liked, and I knew that if I became a Christian, I should not be able to do that. Besides there is plenty of time for a boy like me,’ I said.

“‘Well,’ said the teacher, ‘I am not so sure of that Wilfred, but suppose you look me out a text that says that there is plenty of time, so that I and you can be quite sure that you need not come yet.’”

“So I took my Bible, auntie, and began to read it. One of the first texts I happened to come across was,

‘It is time to seek the Lord’ (Hos. 10:12), and then I read about little Samuel and I noticed that he was listening to the Lord, so that when he was called he heard Him speak, and came to him at once. And later on another text I read was in the New Testament:

“The Master is come and calleth for thee.’ John 11:28. So I just thought I ought to come, and mother prayed with me; and the next Sunday I told my teacher, and she said, ‘Thank God.’ O, Auntie, I am so happy now. I wish I had come to the Lord Jesus before; but now when He comes we shall all be ready.”

How good it is to hear and come at once when God calls us. I came when young myself, and I know it is good to trust and serve the Lord.

“Him that cometh to Me, I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

ML 03/27/1938

How a City's Walls Fell

Joshua 6

Jericho was a large city with great, strong walls, and no doubt, watch towers and guards. It must also have been a beautiful city, being spoken of as “the city of palm trees” (Deut. 34:3).

We know from what the woman, Rahab, said, that its people had heard of God’s great wonders to Israel, and were very frightened at their coming to Canaan. They should have gladly welcomed them and God would have forgiven all, as He did Rahab. But, instead, they shut their gates that none should eater.

God told Joshua to have his soldiers march around the city, followed by seven men blowing trumpets; the men with the ark following and a guard. They did this early in the morning and then returned to camp.

Each morning for six days they marched the same, making no noise only the blowing of the trumpets. We do not know what the people of Jericho thought, to have that army march around their city; any way, they did not open the gates, although the trumpets were really warnings to them.

Early on the seventh day the men of Israel again started their march around Jericho. That day they went around, not just once, but seven times—the last time Joshua told all the men to shout, and there must have been a very loud shout from all that army of men. God then made the walls of Jericho fall flat and the men of Israel went in, destroying all there, because they would not trust in God, or honor Him.

But before the walls fell, Joshua sent the young men to bring away Rahab and all her family and all that were in her house, and they took them to the camp of Israel.

God’s Word to us now says:

“Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near.” Isaiah 55:6.

ML 03/27/1938

Is the Bible True?

Did the Book we call the Bible

Come to us from God in heaven?

Are the words which fill its pages

By His inspiration given?

Were the men He used to write it

So entirely in His hand,

That they only wrote the message

They received at His command?

Yes, the precious, Holy Bible

Is from God, and not of man,

None on earth have made its equal—

Let them do it if they can!

All its words were breathed from heaven,

And are perfect, proved, and sure;

They have stood the test of ages,

And forever shall endure.

As the waves of the angry ocean

Beat against the mighty rock,

But unmoved and undiminished,

It repels their every shock!

So the Word of God remaineth,

While its enemies have fled,

And it lives, and shall forever,

While they lie among the dead.

Let us love the precious Bible,

As God’s holy Word of truth;

We will own it as our standard,

And our guide in years of youth:

Through the paths so fraught with danger,

It will safely lead us on,

Till we reach the golden city,

And the Lamb upon the throne.

ML 03/27/1938

Answers to Bible Questions for February

“The Children’s Class”

1.“For what is a man,” etc. Matt 10:26.

2.“And Jesus said,” etc. 17:20.

3.“And immediately,” etc. 14:31.

4.“Take heed that ye,” etc.18:10.

5.“Fear ye not,” etc. 10:31.

6.“But if ye had,” etc. 12:7.

7.“At that time,” etc. 1:25.

Bible Questions for April

“The Children’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in Mark

1.Write in full the verse containing the words, “When Jesus saw it, lie was much displeased.”

2.Write in full the verse containing the words, “As soon as Jesus search the word.”

3.Write in full the verse containing the words, “And straightway coming up out of the water.”

4.Write in full the verse containing the words, “But he could not be hid.”

5.Write in full the verse containing the words “Early the first day of the week.”

6. Write in full the verse containing the words, “It is nigh, even at the doors.”

7. Whom did the Lord Jesus acknowledge as his brother, and sister, and mother?

Answers to Bible Questions for February

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

1.Four. Matthew 13:4,5,7,8.

2.Matthew 16:16-18.

3.From the wise and prudent of this world. Matthew 11:25.

4.Matthew13:3,25,31,33,44,45,47.

5.Matthew 15:24.

6.Tell the matter to the offending brother alone. Matthew 18:15.

7.Those things which come out of the heart. Matthew 15:19, 20.

Bible Questions for April

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

The Answers are to be found in Mark

1.What was the centurion’s confession?

2.Why do we give a cup of cold water to a believer?

3.What verse shows that every believer has work to do for the Lord?

4.Who takes away the Word sown in the heart?

5.Who are the Lord’s spiritual relatives?

6.What question in profit and loss did the Lord ask?

7.How much did the poor widow cast into the treasury?

Note: As some of our young people did not seem to understand the Question of Jan. 2nd, No. 3, “How did the Lord take ‘our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses?’” we insert the following:

Isaiah had prophesied about our Lord Jesus that “Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses.” Isa. 53:4.

The carrying out of this we witness in our Lord’s life in Matthew’s Gospel where we find Him casting out spirits with His word, and healing all that were sick (Matt. 8:16). Inasmuch as the Lord Jesus felt in His own spirit the sorrow and burden of these afflicted ones, and entered thus sympathetically into their physical distresses, He is thus said to “take our infirmities,” and “bare our sicknesses.”

That our Lord either was ever sick or infirm Himself, or that He, as a substitute at the cross, suffered for our sicknesses and infirmities, is a purely human invention with not one word of Scripture to support it.

ML 04/03/1938

Guarded by God

The women of India have very large earthen pitchers, which they use for carrying water. Such a pitcher, worth only a few cents, was noticed one evening by three English officers, lying in a field. At some distance from the pitcher were a few natives working.

The officers had been tiger hunting all day, but they had not fired a shot, as not a single tiger had been seen. Their guns were therefore still loaded, and in order to give themselves a little amusement, one of the officers proposed to shoot at an object to test which of ‘them was the best shot.

Seeking for a suitable object, their eyes fell on the pitcher lying in the field. A better target they could not have wished for, so they began to shoot. The pitcher lay at a considerable distance away, but all three were experienced shots. But how was that! The first shot missed, the second shot missed, and likewise the third.

Astonished and annoyed, they went towards the pitcher, to see where their shots had struck. They were quite near it, when the sound of plaintive crying reached their ears. And what did they see, when they looked in? A little child, which had been hidden in it by its mother, as a protection from the dangerous insects which abound in that hot land.

The mother, who was working among the natives nearby, terrified by the shots, came running up. The officers stood petrified. Quite near the child their bullets lay stuck in the ground, but neither pitcher nor child were hurt.

They compensated the mother for the unintentional fright she had received, and went off in earnest conversation as to the wonderful way God had protected the child from death, and themselves from murder.

“The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear Him, and delivereth them.” Psalms 34:7.

“Their angels do always behold the face of My Father which is in heaven.” Matt. 18:10.

ML 03/03/1938

"Able to Keep"

I heard the Gospel many a time before that night on which God saved me, but that night I heard that Christ was able to keep as well as to save. That was what I needed. So I trusted Him and have learned that His power can save and keep me.

I hastened home and told of my conversion, and next day it was rumored I had gone mad. But it is blessed madness to know one is saved, and on the way to glory.

Reader, are you going there? “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.” Phil. 3:13, 14.

ML 04/03/1938

Deer

How pretty they are, with their heads thrown up, and the big gazelle-like eyes are wide open and luminous.

They live among the woods, and shrubbery, but they are timid creatures, sleek, and ever on the alert.

They dread wild beasts, and still more, dangerous man, and they quickly run away from them.

Boys and girls should have greater intelligence than the deer of the field, for God has given them a never dying soul, and yet we see them running straight into all sorts of danger, but the deer run away from it.

Satan is the enemy of boys and girls, and he wishes to hold them in his grasp. The word is,

“Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” James 4:7. Listen, dear ones,

“There’s a Friend for little children,

Above the bright blue sky.”

Now, you all know that a friend is one who loves you, and is just the opposite to an enemy. This Friend came down from heaven to suffer, bleed, and die on the cross for all who have sinned. He went to the cross, and there laid down His life, because He loved you. There was no other way by which you could be saved,— there had to be a sacrificed life.

“Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the Just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God.” 1 Peter 3:18.

“HOW THAT CHRIST DIED FOR OUR SINS ACCORDING TO THE SCRIPTURES; AND THAT HE WAS BURIED, AND THAT HE ROSE AGAIN THE THIRD DAY ACCORDING TO THE SCRIPTURES.” 1 Corinthians 15:3,4.

Now, He is sitting at God’s right hand in heaven, and from there He is inviting you to come. to Him, and know that your sins are washed away in His precious blood.

ML 04/03/1938

Hid in a Tent

Joshua 7

A part of Israel’s army went against a small city, called Ai, but they were driven away and some of the men killed. This defeat made all Israel discouraged: for God had said they should win over all the cities of Canaan.

So Joshua prayed to God to know the reason of this: God told him that there had been sin; that His command had been disobeyed. Before the men of Israel had gone into Jericho, God had said they should not take anything there for themselves, but could take of the gold, silver, iron and brass for use in the tabernacle.

Joshua called all the men together for the Lord to show who had disobeyed; the Lord showed it was a man named Achan. Joshua asked Achan what he had done, and he said he had seen a fine garment in Jericho which he wanted, and took, and also much silver and a large wedge of gold, and had hidden thou in the ground inside his tent.

This was a sad way to do—should not Achan have known that the One Who had brought them across Jordan, and made the walls of Jericho fall, was wise to know the right commands to give, and was worthy to be obeyed? He had not only taken the garment for himself, but the sinner and gold, which was to be used for the tabernacle, and had not confessed his sin until God had shown it.

Joshua sent men to Achan’s tent, where they found the things hidden. Then he, and those with him, were taken to a place where they were put to death. The stolen things were taken there also, and a great heap of stones piled up as a warning to all. The sons and daughters of Achan must have been old enough to know of and to help keep the stolen things, or else they would not have been punished, for the law said no one should be put to death for another’s sin (Deut. 24:16).

We learn by this sad story that God cannot help or bless His people if they disobey Him, and do not confess the wrong.

Afterward God let the army of Israel take the city of Ai.

ML 04/03/1938

His, by Right

Little one, who made thee?

Lost thou know who made thee?

“God Almighty” is His name,

“Jesus” when.to earth He came,

He thy little frame designed,

His delight in thee to find.

He it was Who made thee.

Little one, who loves thee?

Dost thou know who loves thee,

Saw thee in thy lost estate,

Burdened with thy sins so great, Went to Calvary’s cross for thee,

Bore thy sins upon the tree?

He who made thee loves thee.

Little one, who owns thee?

Dost thou know who owns thee?

He who made thee, bought thee, too,

Tasted shame and death for you,

“Lord of all” is now His name,

Yield thee to his double claim.

Jesus rightly owns thee.

ML 04/03/1938

The Storm at Sea

“IT IS I: BE NOT AFRAID”

The Saviour’s voice we love to hear

Above the waves and wind,

It stills the tempest far and near,

And calms the anxious mind.

Our bark had sailed away from land

In time of peace and calm,

Had scarcely stretched across the strand,

Ere tempest gave alarm.

Then Jesus came across the seas,

Unhindered by the storm,

To put to silence winds and waves,

And make a sudden calm.

Where Jesus comes—Where Jesus is—

What room for doubt or fear?

His voice upon the ocean waves

Will soothe the list’ning ear.

Nor does He on the water stay,

When sailors find Him room;

But comes on hoard to show the way,

And bring them safely home.

“HE WILL BE WITH THEE; HE WILL NOT FAIL THEE, NOR FORSAKE THEE.” Deuteronomy 31:8.

ML 04/10/1938

Bedtime

Lord, teach a little child to pray

To Thee in heaven above;

And lead me in Thy blessed way,

That I may trust Thy love.

And in my childhood, and my youth,

Be Thou my heart’s delight;

And guide me by Thy precious truth,

And keep me day and night.

ML 04/10/1938

The Lie

“Go, at once to the store” said widow Hilden to her son Hermann and fetch a half-pound of coffee. “Here’s a shilling; the money you get back wrap up carefully, or you may lose it.”

Hermann went off and soon reached the store. The shop man weighed the coffee and gave him back out of the shilling two pennies. Hermann put them carefully in his pocket and started homeward. When he had gone a short way, he saw two boys like himself quarreling and fighting. “Come, Hermann and help me,” cried one of them; “Fred is too strong for me!”

“No,” replied Hermann, “I won’t play with such rude boys as you.” A moment later he suddenly stopped as if he had thought of something. What might it be? Was he going back to the boys? No; he stood still a moment, looked round him stealthily and then hurried down the next street. Here was a fancy baker’s store. Hermann disappeared in the door of the store and came out again soon after with four little cakes, which he had bought with the half of the money he got back at the coffee store. He quickly ate the cakes and started home.

Before he entered the house, he wiped his mouth carefully and saw that no telltale crumb was sticking to his clothes, so that his mother would not guess what he had done. As he gave her the coffee he said: “Mother, two of my school chums were fighting on the road, and they wanted me to join in with them; but I told them I was not going to be wild like them. Was that not right of me?”

“It is right, Hermann,” replied the wise mother, “not to be wild and quarrel: but for all that, I do not believe you are better than these boys.”

“Why not?” asked Hermann surprised. “Because you have praised your own good behavior; and proud children are not better than wild ones, but sometimes quite the opposite. But where is the change you got back at the store?”

Hermann put his hand in his pocket and drew out a penny.

“‘Did you not get back two pennies?” asked his mother.

“No,” replied Hermann, “he gave me only one.”

“Are you quite sure?” asked the mother, looking him sharply in the eyes.

“Yes, I am” said Hermann but he could not look his mother in the face but looked out the window.

“Hermann,” said the mother again, “I am afraid you are telling a lie. Remember you can deceive me, but you cannot deceive God.”

“No, no,” cried Hermann, beginning to weep, “I have not told a lie! I have not told a lie! I only got one penny back.”

Just as Hermann was crying, the door opened and his sister entered the room with his handkerchief in her hand.

“Mr. Schelf in the next street has sent this handkerchief,” she said, “Hermann left it behind in the shop when he was buying cakes.”

Hermann stood there, as if struck by a blow. His mother looked at him and tears came into her eyes. Ah, she knew now how the matter stood. Hermann made no sound, he stood speechless in the middle of the room, his face covered with his two hands.

“O, Hermann, Hermann!” began the mother at last in painful tones, “what a bad boy you are! You are a liar, for you have repeatedly told me an untruth, you are a thief, for you have stolen a penny, and bought yourself good things with it. And you are a hypocrite, for you wished to make me believe that you were better than your schoolmates and on the contrary you are worse than any one of them.”

Mrs. Hilden then opened the door and ordered Hermann up to the garret where he was kept all day and got only dry bread and water for his dinner. Hermann wept bitterly; in his solitude, he had time to think of the great sin he had committed. Not till late in the evening was he allowed downstairs, and before he lay down to sleep, she kneeled down with him prayed God that He would forgive his godlessness and turn his heart to Jesus. Hermann burst into tears. He had never seen himself thus in God’s sight. A liar—a thief—a hypocrite! Hermann trembled when he thought of it. Let us hope that this solemn experience led him to Jesus and that the prayer of his mother was not in vain.

“Lying lips are abomination to the Lord: but they that deal truly are His delight” Proverbs 12:22.

“Deliver my soul, O Lord, from lying lips, and from a deceitful tongue.” Psalms 120:2.

ML 04/10/1938

The Tower and Its Sad Story

There is an old ivy-covered tower in the Isle of-Man, of which a story of thrilling interest is yet told by some of the old Manxsmen of that coast on which it stands. Within that tower, one of the best governors of the ancient Manx was hanged. He lived during a time of civil war, and one who hated him and wished his death, went and told the king a lying story, accusing the good governor of treachery. The king at once ordered his arrest. He was secretly conveyed to the tower, and after a hurried trial, in which false witnesses were bribed to appear against him, he was sentenced to death.

The people, who generally believed he was innocent, got up a petition for his release, and presented it to the king, who recalled the death-sentence, and sent a royal message ordering his release. The king’s message fell into the hands of the governor’s worst enemy, who, instead of handing it to the jailor, kept it locked up in his desk till the good governor was hanged. What can we think of the conduct of that wicked man to hide the king’s message which would have set the prisoner free?

Does he not remind you of Satan, the great adversary, who seeks to keep the gospel of God, the glad tidings sent from heaven to give liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound? How he tries to keep boys and girls from hearing and believing the gospel, and thus gets them down to hell. Are you allowing him to do this with you?

“If our gospel be hid, it is hid to them that are lost: in whom the god of this world hath blinded the minds of them which believe not, lest the light of the glorious gospel of Christ, who is the image of God, should shine unto them.” 2 Corinthians 4:3,4.

ML 04/10/1938

The Fisherman and His Boy

A fisherman and his boy were sailing together in a boat one morning. About noon the sky became clouded, and soon a hurricane began to blow. Lowering the sail, the boat heeled over, and both oars were lost. The frail boat was now at the mercy of wind and waves, and it seemed certain that a watery grave must soon he the portion of that brave fisherman and his boy. The father removed the boat’s seat and strapped his son firmly to it, in the hope that he might by this means float to the shore if the boat swamped. When the boy saw this, he cried out,

“No, no, father, tie me to yourself, we must sink or swim together.”

A lull in the storm and a rift in the clouds, showed the lighthouse a short distance off, and in a very short time two of the brave keepers, who had been on the look-out and had seen their danger, appeared in a boat, and rescued them.

The fisher-boy’s touching request aptly expresses what has been done for every saved sinner. He has been bound up in the bundle of life with Christ, so that Christ and he must sink or swim together.

Sink did I say? No, never. The Son of God risen from the dead dieth no more. Death has no more dominion over Him. He liveth evermore. So must all His people, for He has said,

“Because I live, ye shall live also,” John 14:19.

ML 04/10/1938

The Reading on the Mountains

Joshua 8:30-35

Near the center of Canaan is a bare, rocky mountain, called Ebal, and about half a mile south, another mountain rises, not as high, but much like it.

God had said that when the people of Israel got into Canaan, the words of the law should be written on big stones on Mt. Ebal, and the people should come there to hear them read. Joshua did not forget to do thin He brought all the people, and also the ark, which held the law written at Mt. Sinai, to the valley between the two mountains.

The big stones were first plastered so the writing would show well; then the words of the law were written plainly on them, and read to the people. This law was what we call the “Ten Commandments,” given first at Mt. Sinai to the people of Israel, and repeated to their children here at Mt. Ebal (Ex. 20:1-18). It was the agreement between God and Israel, also called, “the covenant”, and spoken of many times in the Bible.

If the people kept the words of the law, God had told the good things He would do for them; those promises were called blessings: if the people worshiped idols, and did not keep His law, God had told the sorrows they should have; those were called, the curses.

After the law was read from Mt. Ebal, the blessings were loudly read by men on Mt. Gerizim, while men from six of the tribes stood there; then, the curses were loudly read by men on Mt. Ebal, while men from the six other tribes stood there. Each time all the people said, “Amen”, that meant they agreed God’s words were true (Deut. 27).

What a loud answer it must have been from all those people! Even the little children were there. Perhaps many of the children did not understand all the reading from the mountains, yet God wished them to listen. And we may be sure He wishes all now to listen to His words. We hear a more wonderful message than they. We hear of One, the Lord Jesus, Who took the curse of that law, that all who trust Him may be blessed forever.

“Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree.” Galatians 3:13.

ML 04/10/1938

Calvary

There is a green hill far away,

Beyond a city wall,

Where the dear Lord was crucified,

Who died for sinners all.

I may not know, I cannot tell,

What pains. He had to bear;

But believe it was for me

He hung and suffered there.

He died that I might be forgiven,

He died to do me good,

That I might go at last to heaven,

Saved by His precious blood.

ML 04/10/1938

Spring Time

Spring has come, and in many parts of this country the trees and bushes are looking beautiful. All rejoice to see the trees come out in full leaf, and the pastures in beautiful green.

There is another thing we might think of, and that is the restfulness and apparent contentment of the people who live in this beautiful place, as we see them sitting and dining under their vine.

God does not give any of us everything, for if He did, we would be too ready to be satisfied down here, and forget that He is the “Giver of every good and perfect gift.”

But while God does not give us all we might wish of this world’s goods, He does give us all we need.

Contentment is not by having everything that the heart could wish in this world. These people did not have the many comforts of life that people have today, but very likely were more content, and if they knew the Lord Jesus Christ as their Saviour, and God as their Father, and walked in His ways, they surely would be happy and contented.

Whether He gives us little or whether He gives us much, we should be very grateful to Him for what we have.

“BE CONTENT WITH SUCH THINGS AS YE HAVE.” Hebrews 13:5.

ML 04/17/1938

Schoolmates!

Jim and I were schoolmates, and bosom friends as well. We walked to and from school together for many a day, and after that we went to the Academy. What a lot of “castles in the air” we built during these walks. Sometimes we were to be soldiers, and go out to fight our country’s foes right and left. At other times we were to sail the stormy seas, and come back laden with riches from distant shores. I don’t think we ever took thought of dying, or anything of that kind. There was little said to young folks in these days about eternal things, in our circle at least. We went to church on Sundays, and that was about all.

During our second year at the Academy, a younger boy, the son of a farmer, accompanied us on the road. He was a few years younger than we were, and of a very quiet retiring nature. When. Jim and I were discussing our prospects, and planning for the future, he would listen with evident concern, and, smile. One day after we had carried our program forward for some ten or twenty years, Willie quietly asked—“What if you do not live so long as that?”

Jim looked at me, and I at him. We never had thought of that; never reckoned on the possibility of dying young at all. Willie saw we were brought to a halt, and quietly added, “It’s good to be ready to the anyhow; living or dying, the Christian has the best of it.”

We suddenly remembered that Willie’s father held meetings, and spoke to people about their souls, and I have no doubt, the devil stirred up the enmity of our natural hearts against the Gospel, and the simple but honest testimony of Willie, our converted school-fellow.

I laughed—I remember well the scoffing sneer—and ran on before, skipping and leaping, to show how strong and unlikely to die I was. Jim got very angry, clenched his fists, and said sonic very wicked things to Wille, who meekly bowed his head and said nothing.

This was the first time so far as I remember, when Eternity was brought before me, and like a fool, I thrust the thought of it from me. How many do so still, and tread with determined step, the road to death and hell.

Years passed on Jim and I were parted, he going to one city to learn his business, and I to another. Willie continued in the old country home with his father, and I believe bore a bright and steady testimony for Christ there.

Unknown to me, Jim had been converted, and so had I, unknown to Jim. We had both accepted Christ as our Saviour. I had often prayed for my old schoolmate, and wished I could find his whereabouts, that I might tell him of my new-found joy.

I was home for holidays, and now that I was saved and on my way to glory, I had a new way of spending them. There was to be a Conference, and I made up my mind to go, hoping I might either see or hear of Willie. I had not long taken my seat, when to my great delight he came and shook me warmly by the hand. He had heard of my conversion, and was longing to see me. Before we had spoken long, he asked,

“Have you seen Jim?”

“No” I said, “where is he?”

Taking me by the arm, he led me up to a seat near the platform, and there sat Jim, our old schoolmate and friend, by his sister’s side, Bible and hymn book in hand, his face beaming with joy, converted to God, and on his way to heaven too.

What a meeting that was to the three of us! How much we had to tell of the great deliverance grace had wrought for us. All saved and set free from Satan’s chains, to live for Christ and serve Him, in the golden days of youth. I can tell you, that when the hymn,

“O Happy day, that fixed my choice,

On Thee, my Saviour and my God,”

was given out, we stood there side by side and sang it with full hearts, and when our pilgrim days are done, we shall swell the song of redemption together up there before the throne.

Such is the story of God’s grace, dear boys and girls, to us who were schoolmates.

Is the one who saved us your Saviour? Do you know the joy of having Him as your own personal Deliverer and Friend? I can testify to this, that there is none like Him. None but Christ can fill the youthful heart with real joy and pleasure, and none but Christ can save the sinner from a godless life, a miserable death, and a lost eternity.

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Timothy 1:15.

ML 04/17/1938

Would the Rice Be Ready?

Happy school days in India do not last long. At a very early age, little girls are taken from school, and are shut up in their homes.

When this time comes, many of them are very glad to go on with their reading, and Bible lessons with Bible-women, whose work it is to visit and teach them. By this means many have learned to love and pray to the one true God.

I will tell you the story of a little girl, who was no longer allowed to go out of doors, and for some time had been learning at home.

Her grandmother was old and went to work in the fields, but before going, used to go to the well and draw up the water in the palmyra basket (made of one large leaf, twisted together in a very clever way). A cord was fastened to this curious bucket, and it was let down again and again into the well. Each time it was drawn up and emptied into a brass vessel, and when this was full she would lift it on her hip and carry it home.

The little girl ten years old was left to cook the rice and make the curry. This is the usual food of the people of South India.

One day, alas! the grandmother went off to work, but had forgotten to draw the water. What was to be done? The little girl was forbidden to go out. She could not cook rice without water, and there was no one in the house to draw it.

The child was very much troubled; she knew how angry her father would be, if he came home and found no food ready for him.

What would you have done in such a case? Would you have remembered the Lord’s words,

“All things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive”? Matthew 21:22.

This little girl remembered that her teacher—the Bible woman—had told her there was a God who hears prayer, and helps those who pray to Him.

“Now I will see,” thought the child, “whether the Christian’s God will hear me in my trouble.”

So she went into an inner room, and kneeling down and putting her hands together, as she used to do at school, she prayed to the great and loving God of the Christians.

The prayer had only just ended, when she heard a knock at the door; she went to open it, and there found a little friend who had come to see her, and ran off most willingly and quickly to fetch the water; so the rice and curry were cooked and dinner was ready in good time.

Some months after this, a missionary went into the village, and heard this story from the girl. She ended it by saying,

“Now I believe your God does hear and answer prayer. I always pray only to-Hint. I want to be His child.”

ML 04/17/1938

A Good Answer

A lady was asked to pay a call, but on arriving at the house found she had been given the wrong number.

The door was opened by an old woman, and on finding out her mistake, the visitor said,

“I am so sorry to have troubled you.” Opening her bag, she took out a little book, and handing it to her, she asked, “Can you see to read?”

“No, I am going blind,” was the reply, “but my little grandson will read it to me.”

“That’s right,” said the lady, “the words on the cover are, ‘If thou knewest the gift of God.’ I wonder if you know what that is.”

“Why yes,” said the old woman, “eternal life, and I have it.”

Can you say the same?

“The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23.

ML 04/17/1938

Why the Men Wore Old Clothes

Joshua 9

Some men came to the camp of Israel who had on very old clothes and old shoes, and wanted to speak with Joshua and the leaders.

Joshua asked them, “Who are ye? and from whence come ye?” They told him they were from a very far country, and that when they started, their clothes and shoes were new, but had worn out on the long journey.

In those lands people carried water or wine in the skins of animals, often a goat’s skin, tied together; those were their bottles for a journey, and after some time they would get torn. These men showed Joshua such bottles, with torn places tied up. And they showed the bread left from their provisions, all dry and moldy: they said it was just fresh baked when they started from their homes.

They said that they had heard how God had saved the people of Israel out of Egypt and from the kings, who had fought against them, and they had come to make friends with them.

So Joshua, and the leaders, without first asking the Lord what to do, promised to be friends with this nation.

Rut those men had not told a true story: in a few days Joshua learned that they were not from a far land, but nearby. They had worn the old shoes and clothes, and taken the old bread and bottles to deceive the people of Israel.

So Joshua sent for the men, and asked why they had done so. They said it was because they were afraid of Israel. They had not come because they wanted to worship God, but because they were afraid of His power. If Joshua had first asked the Lord What to do, He would have shown him that they were deceitful.

Because they had acted in deceit, Joshua made them to be servants to Israel, to cut wood and carry water. But he spared their city, Gibeon, and later, when the other nations went to fight them, God sent Joshua to help them. We will read of that great battle another time, the Lord willing.

ML 04/17/1938

The Love of Jesus

His heart is full of kindness,

Sweet words He has to tell;

Come listen to Him, children,

For He loves children well;

And many to Him gather,

From every clime and land;

Come, welcome, happy children,

And join the happy band.

He on the cross once suffer’d;

Nails pierced His hands and feet;

But all His pain and sorrow

Make us for heaven meet.

His blood our sin-stain cleanses,

And takes our guilt away:

Come, welcome, happy children,

For Jesus says you may.

ML 04/17/1938

Sparrow

There is no bird so common, or of as little value as the sparrow. There are not only a great many of them, but their feathery coat is not beautiful, am their song is not sweet like many other birds. But there is one thing that is good to remember—God’s Word lets us know that He takes the same needed care of the sparrow as He does of other birds, “Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? And one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father;” and the Word continues, “But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.” Matthew 10:29,30.

How many there are who fret and trouble themselves about the affairs of this life, and have little or no time to give to God’s Word, or to pay attention to eternal things.

They forget that God cares for all, and provides food and raiment for all His creatures, and thus He is the preserver of all men, but especially of those who believe. God has loved them so much that He did not even spare His own Son, but delivered Him up for them all.

May each one, young or old, who reads these lines, seek first to know and confess the Lord Jesus as the One whom God sent for them, and rejoice, not only that He has saved them, but that they are such objects of His care, that the very hairs of their head are all numbered, and that they are of more value than many sparrows. “MY GOD SHALL SUPPLY ALL YOUR NEED ACCORDING TO HIS RICHES IN GLORY BY CHRIST JESUS.” Philippians 4:19.

ML 04/24/1938

"Because He Loved Us"

I was standing at the door of a house, when I heard some childish voices singing. As I listened I could distinctly hear the words,

“Jesus loves me, this I know

For the Bible tells me so.

Little ones to Him belong,

They are weak, but He is strong.”

I wondered where the sound came from, but I remembered seeing two or three little children playing on the doorstep of a house opposite, as I had entered the court. I expect it was these children who were singing this lovely hymn.

How I should have liked to have stopped to listen longer. But the little girl belonging to the house I was calling at, had already told her mother I was there, so I could wait no longer.

When I came out the little singers had gone, but their words lingered with me—words I had often sung myself when I was a little girl—yes, sweet words telling of the love of Jesus.

As I thought of those words, “Jesus loves me,” I was reminded of one Sunday afternoon. I was speaking to a class of little boys and girls about the time when cruel men took Jesus and nailed Him to Calvary’s cross. I told them that if Jesus had wished He could have gone back to heaven without dying.

“Can anyone tell me why Jesus suffered all this?” I asked. Only one little hand was held up, and the answer was given by a little girl of seven,

“Because He loved us!”

Yes, that is the reason. Not one of us could ever go to that beautiful home in heaven if the Lord Jesus had not taken our place and died instead of us.

Don’t you think He must have loved us very much to have suffered for us there? And now He wants each one of us to believe in Him and thank Him for all that He has done for us.

Then the little verse will be true of us,

“We love Him because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19.

ML 04/24/1938

A Golden Chain

For all those who are Christ’s

I will give you a golden chain of seven links, telling how completely Christ is for you, and how freely He is occupied on your account.

No shepherd ever watched his flock, no mother ever cared over her child, no watchman ever guarded his charge, as the Lord Jesus does you. Hear what He says,

His Arms are underneath you (Deut. 33:27)

His Eyes’s are over you (1 Peter 3:12).

He goes before you (John 10:4). He follows behind you (Isa. 52:12).

He encampeth round about you (Psa.34:7).

He lives in you (Gal. 2:20).

He is coming for you (John 14:3).

ML 04/24/1938

Maggie's Hymn

Maggie’s favorite hymn was,

“Tell me the old, old story

Of Jesus, and His love.”

It was this hymn that brought light and joy to her heart the night she was converted, and she sang it over and over the most of the night. The last verse says,

“And if this simple message

Has now brought peace to you,

Make known the old, old story,

For others need it too.

Let everybody see it,

That Christ has made you free,

And if it sets them longing,

Say, ‘JESUS DIED FOR THEE.’”

The next morning, Maggie went across the fields to tell a neighbor of her newfound joy. She found her sitting in her door knitting.

“What brings you here so early, Maggie, dear? I hope you have good news with you,” said the old lady.

“The very best, Grandma,” said Maggie with a smile, as she seated herself on a stool by her side. “I was saved yesterday, and I could not rest till I had come and told you the old, old story too. It has made me so happy. Have you believed it yet, Grandma?”

The woman looked bewildered, and shook her head. She had been religious all her life; she went to church as often as she was able, but she was only “hoping to be saved,” and that chiefly by her own efforts, with “God’s help,” of course.

Maggie’s heart now filled with the love of Jesus, longed to see the dear woman saved, but the difficulty was, to get her to see the simplicity of the gospel.

“I’ll sing you my favorite hymn,’’ she said, and, seated by the woman’s side, she sang the verses of “The Old, Old Story” from first to last. As she finished, she saw the tears come down her face, and in the simplicity of her heart she said, “You have believed it too, Grandma, haven’t you?”

And such was indeed the case. The message that had won the young and tender heart of Maggie the previous day, had also entered into the heart of the aged woman and she was won for Christ.

“If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” Romans 10:9.

ML 04/24/1938

Everlasting Life

Well, Bobbie,” I said to a little man of eight summers; “your mother tells me that you are saved. Is that so?”

“Yes,” he replied.

“Come and tell me how it took place,” I said, and the dear child drew toward me, tears starting to his eyes as he did so.

“Was there any special verse in the Bible that God used to give you the peace you sought?” I asked of him.

“Yes,” he said; “it was— ‘He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life.’” John 3:30.

“Very good,” I said; “and do you know, Bobbie, that you have everlasting life?”

“Yes,” he said.

But I thought after Bobbie had quoted this verse that in all likelihood he did not understand its meaning, and so I said to him

“But what is everlasting life, Bobbie?”

I fully expected to hear him say, “It means that I am saved,” or that “I have peace,” or that “I shall go to heaven when I die,” or some such answer. And all that would be true enough, but, to my delight, he said,

“It is the knowledge of the living and trite God!”

What a splendid answer to the question of eternal life from the lips of a babe in the family of God and a child of eight years of age!

This child knew that he had eternal life, and that it was much more than security from judgment. He said it was the knowledge of God and Jesus Christ.

“This is life eternal that they might know Thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom Thou hast sent.” John 17:3.

ML 04/24/1938

The Longest Day

Joshua 10

There was once a day about twice as long as any other day. This was during a great battle in Canaan. For when the king of Jerusalem heard that the men of Gibeon had made peace with Israel, he was very angry, and sent to four other kings to join, their armies with his against Gibeon. These kings did not want to worship God, nor have anyone welcome His people, Israel, to Canaan.

Gibeon was a strong city and the men mighty, but they were afraid when these five armies came against them, and sent to Joshua for help. The Lord told Joshua not to fear, but that Israel should win over them. So Joshua and all his army marched all night to go to the help of Gibeon.

While they were fighting, Joshua wished for more daylight, and said, “Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon.... And the sun stood still in the midst of heaven, and pasted not to go down about a whole day.” And the moon waited to rise, while the great battle was finished.

“There was no day like that before or after it.” Joshua 10:14.

The five wicked kings tied, but were captured later.

This great battle at Gibeon was mentioned by a prophet who lived long after, and who called it “God’s strange work.” So we know God took no delight in the battle, and only punished when the people would not turn to Him (Isa. 28:21; Ezek. 18:23).

Someone may say to you that this story cannot be true, because it is not the sun which moves, but the earth. Men have learned this fact and we believe it, and yet we speak the same as Joshua of the sun “setting”, because it appears to us to do so. This long day could have come only by the power of God, Since He made the earth, the sun, and the moon, He was able to change time, and to give us a true record. If there is someone who doubts God’s power, you could ask such to read the questions of God, given in the Book of Job, especially chapter 38.

There is one other day told of in the Bible, when time was lengthened, but not for long. (2 Kings 20:8-11).

It may be of interest for you to know that there is a record among the Chinese and others, of one very long clay. It was about 1450 years before Christ lived.

“How should man be just with God?... Which commandeth the sun, and it riseth not.” Job 9:1-10.

ML 04/24/1938

Never Perish Who?

Listen— “They shall never perish!”

Who “shall never perish,” who?

We would learn to whom it, speaketh,

Who, and whence they are, would know.

Listen—’tis the word of Jesus, And ‘tis spoken of His sheep—

In His hand in perfect safety,

He has promised each to keep.

Born they were, as sons of Adam,

Sinful, fallen, of the earth,

They have heard the word of Jesus,

And have now a heavenly birth.

Now, from Satan’s power delivered,

Jesus sets on them His love:

They shall “never, never perish”

He will bear them safe above.

ML 04/24/1938

Answers to Bible Questions for March

“The Children’s Class”

And gave them,”etc. Matt. 27:10.

“And if any man,” etc. 21:3.

“He is not here,” etc. 28:6.

“The LORD said,” etc. 22:44.

“Watch therefore,” etc. 24:42.

“His Lord said,” etc. 25:21,23.

“Hut when the,” etc. 19:22.

Bible Questions for May

“The Children’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in Luke, chapters 1-12

1. Write in full the verse containing the words, “And was subject unto them.”

2.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Will come forth and serve them.”

3.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Mightest know the certainty of those things.”

4. Write in full the verse containing the words, “To the poor the gospel is preached.”

5.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Continued all night in prayer to God.”

6.Write in full the verse containing the words, “The Son of man must suffer many things.”

7.From what Old Testament book did the Lord Jesus read when he was in the synagogue at Nazareth?

Answers to Bible Questions for March

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

1.Matthew 20:26-28.

2.All power in heaven and in earth. Matthew 28:18.

3.Matthew 25:46.

4.Not knowing the Scriptures nor the Power of God. Matthew 22:29.

5.The setting up of the abomination in the holy place. Matthew 24:15-16.

6.Babes and sucklings. Matthew 21:46.

7. Matthew 20:18.

Bible Questions for May

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

The Answers are to be found in Luke 1-12

1.What renders a man unlit for the kingdom of God?

2.How did the devil misquote Scripture?

3.What solemn title was given Christ before He was born?

4.Whom did God call a “fool”?

5.Where is the believer’s name written?

6.How does one get saved?

7.What prophet promised in the Old Testent is found in Luke?

ML 05/01/1938

The Shepherd Boy

A traveler from a commercial house, while crossing the extensive plains in W. was joined by a man passing the same road. The traveler, a pious man, observed, with regret, that the conversation of the man was of a light and trifling cast, often bordering on profanity; and resolved to take the first opportunity of slipping away from so unprofitable a companion. Before, however, such an opportunity occurred, they reached a place where the road separated. Uncertain which way to take, they proposed to inquire of a shepherd boy, who was reclining near the spot with a book in his hand.

The man, disposed to exercise his wit on the simple country boy, thus addressed him,

“Halloo! my lad; what book are you reading?”

“The Bible, sir!” was the reply.

“The Bible! so! so you read that in hopes to find out the way to heaven?”

“Yes, sir!”

“Very well; that road I neither know nor care anything about; you tell me, if you can, the road to S.; and I will leave you to dream about the other at your leisure.”

“That, sir,” pointing with his crook, “is the road to S.; and the road to heaven, blessed be God, is so plain that the wandering men, though fools, shall not err therein.” Isaiah 35:8.

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Timothy 1:15.

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31.

“Well said, simple shepherd,” thought the pious traveler, and raised his heart in gratitude to the Lord; “how true it is that God has chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise, and the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty, that he that glorieth should glory in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 1:23-31.

ML 05/01/1938

Hiding Prince's Halter

George and his father were walking near the pasture gate, and George said,

“Wait, Father, and see me catch Prince without any oats.”

He took a halter, which hung on the gate post, and, carrying it in one hand behind him, started toward the young horse. With his other hand George held out his cap as though there were something in it, but it was empty.

“Here, Prince, come Prince!” he called, and Prince came to him, and began to smell of the cap expecting to get some oats as the boys always gave him.

Then George quickly drew the halter from behind him, threw it over the horse’s head, fastened it, securely, and led him the gate.

“There, Father, wasn’t that easy?” he asked.

“Yes, my boy, perhaps it is an easy way to catch Prince, but I am afraid he will not trust you after this.”

“George, have you ever been caught in a halter without any oats, as you caught Prince?” said his father that evening as they sat on the porch.

“What do you mean, Father?”

“Do some of the boys want you to go where you know Mother and I do not think good for you, and do they tell you how fine it would be? And do they try to have you smoke and use bad language, and call it just some fun?”

“Yes, Father, they do.”

“Do you see such things are like the hidden halter for Prince? There would soon be bad habits holding you fast like the halter. And the good they promise is empty like the cap. Christian boys need. to be very careful, and I hope the easy way Prince was caught will be a lesson to you, George.”

There are many warnings in the Word of God to show the danger of being lead into wrong ways:

“If sinners entice (coax, or deceive) you, consent thou not.” Proverbs 1:10.

“Enter not in the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil. Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away.” Proverbs 4:14,15.

ML 05/01/1938

Receiving the Gift

The little girl in our picture is being offered a gift of cherries, and we hope she will accept them from her kind friend. To refuse a gift is treating the giver very unkindly.

The Lord Jesus Christ is God’s Gift to us, “God sent His only begotten Son,” we do not deserve this wonderful Gift, because we are all sinners, but God in His great love, is offering Him to us as Saviour, and Christ died for us. If we believe God’s message about His Son giving Himself for us on the cross, we are saved. Let us thank Him for His wonderful salvation, and seek to please Him in all our ways, till He comes for us to take us to His Home in glory.

“THANKS BE UNTO GOD FOR HIS UNSPEAKABLE GIFT.” 2 Corinthians 9:15.

ML 05/01/1938

Rest from War

Joshua 11 and 12

After a long time, the battles of Joshua and his army were over. All the nations of the land had fought against them, excepting the people of Gibeon, who had sent to make peace.

These nations did not have much land as we think of nations having, but each had a king and high walled cities, and were greater than Israel. They joined their armies, so there were more men than could be counted, some of them were giants, like those across Jordan. They had many horses and chariots, as were common for wars then, but we do not read of any for Israel’s army.

Yet God gave Joshua and his army victories over the kings, thirty-two in all, because He knew their evil ways. However, there were a few people, not driven out of the land, yet they did not want to give up idols, nor worship the living God, whose wonders they had known of, but they were always enemies of Israel, and often made war against them.

You have seen pictures of soldiers of long ago with their heavy armor,—the strong helmets, of leather, or metal; the big shields to keep off the enemies’ weapons; and the sharp swords and spears.

God still expects His people to be soldiers, but not like those who fought other men. He does not now tell them to take a land, but He has given them a great possession, the Holy Scriptures, which we can call the Bible. In that, are His promises for blessings for now and in heaven, but which some would keep from them. So God tells the armor each Christian is to put on: “the helmet of salvation”, which is trust in the death of Christ to save us; then “the shield of faith”, which is true belief in God, and “the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God.” This is very different armor than a soldier’s in battle, but it is the one God would have us wear, and we need it as long as we live (Ephians:1148).

Some verses about the nations of Canaan are: Exodus 23:30; Numbers 13:28; Deuteronomy 9:1-6.

ML 05/01/1938

Not Too Young for God to See

I’m not too young for God to see;

He knows my name and nature, too;

And all day long He looks at me,

And sees my actions through and through.

He listens to the words I say,

And knows the thoughts I have within;

And whether I’m at work or play,

He’s sure to know it if I sin.

O, how could children tell a lie,

Or cheat in play, or steal, or fight,

If they remembered God was nigh,

And had them always in His sight?

If those we know and love are near,

It makes us careful what we do;

Then how much more we ought to fear

The God who sees us through and through!

Then when I want to do amiss,

However pleasant it may be,

I’ll always strive to think of this—

“I’m not too young for God to see.”

ML 05/01/1938

Watching

What an interesting picture we have before us! Did you ever have a dog? It is touching, many times, to see how devoted a dog is to his owner.

See how this dog is looking and watching for the return of his master, the shepherd. One dog is tired, and not as faithful as the other; he has lain down for a rest.

Do you see the shepherd’s hat with his Bible on top of it? He must surely be a Christian; at least we are glad that he cares to have God’s Word with him, as he is left alone up there in the mountains, away from all people, with his sheep and dogs.

God has preserved His blessed Book to us for hundreds and hundreds of years; it has passed through many dangers. Wicked people have tried many times, in years gone by, to destroy all copies of it, but God never permitted them to succeed in their evil efforts. How thankful we ought to be to Him for this wonderful Book, the Bible! David the Psalmist, says,

“Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Psa. 119:105.

Surely, every saved person can say the same. There is no other book that can be a daily guide to us as this book can God. wants us to make it such—a daily guide.

Remember as you read it, dear children, that it is God talking to you through His inspired writers.

May we take a lesson, too, from the faithfulness of the dog that is watching so eagerly for his master.

Our Master is gone, our blessed Lord, and how pleasing to Him if we Who are saved, are eagerly watching for His return! Too many of us are like the dog that has grown tired watching, and is resting and thinking only of his own ease. Jesus says to us,

“BLESSED ARE THOSE SERVANTS, WHOM THE LORD WHEN HE COTH SHALL FIND WATCHING.” Luke 12:37.

ML 05/08/1938

The Gospel

The gospel of Christ is, indeed, glad tidings—cheering to the heart. For what does the sinner want?

Does he want forgiveness?

The gospel proclaims redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins. (Eph. 1:7).

Does he want to be counted righteous before God? The gospel says,

“To him that worketh not, but believeth on Him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.” Romans 4:5.

Does he want salvation? The gospel says,

“If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” Romans 10:9. Does he want everlasting life? The Lord Jesus Christ says,

“He that believeth on Me hath everlasting life.” John 6:47.

ML 05/08/1938

Doing Something for Jesus

I would like to do something for the Lord Jesus!” said a little girl one day.

Mary had not long been out of the infant class in her Sunday school. Her parents were very busy people, who had very little time, so they said to think about God or God’s Word. Mary’s teacher in her new class had talked so earnestly and so plainly about serving the Lord Jesus, that the child’s heart was warmed with love to Christ.

“The Lord Jesus was so kind and good: I would like to do something for Him if I could!” Mary said to herself. She knew the way to please Him was to do something for others for His sake, and that day she had learned His words,

“Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, ye have done it unto Me.” Matthew 25:40.

Her teacher had talked a great deal about these words, and Mary listened attentively.

“We all have our hands, with their ten fingers,” the teacher said. “Can we not find something they can do, for the kind Lord Who gave those hands to us?”

All that day Mary thought over the question, and for several days it was still on her mind. She had no money to give to the poor, and she had to go to school every day, and what with doing her lessons and the little household errands for her mother, she had not much time to spare.

“I expect I am too little to do anything for the Lord,” she said to herself, as she walked home one day from school.

It was very cold with frost and snow on the ground, but Mary did not mind the cold as her clothes were nice and warm. Just then she saw an old man coming tards her carrying a pail of water from the village pump.

He had been crippled in his youth, and had been obliged to hobble along on a wooden leg for twenty years. He was not a particularly pleasant old man, and the village children generally liked to keep, out of his way if they could. Today Mary could not help noticing how difficult it was for him to carry the water along the slippery road, and he could scarcely steady himself with his stick to keep the water from splashing over.

Mary thought this was just her opportunity, so she ran forward and offered to help him. She managed to hold the pail so steady, that the old man got on ever so much better. Each day on her way from school she stopped to fill the old man’s bucket with water, and helped him along with it. He soon began to look forward to her coming.

Mary had not forgotten her longing to do something for the Lord. This carrying of the water down the slippery road was a very little thing, but she thought to herself, if this old man belonged to the Lord, then she would be doing it for Him. One day she ventured to ask him, but the old man did not understand her in the least. He kept wondering and thinking over her words all the evening. He had a New Testament pushed away somewhere, and Mary’s words reminded him of what he had read there long ago. He had scarcely opened the covers of that book since he had been a schoolboy.

As he turned over the pages his eyes fell on words with a pencil mark against them, and these words were underlined,

“God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.

Mary still came every day to carry the water for him, and the old man would get her to talk to him. She was delighted to repeat what she had heard the teacher say, and she told him all about her longing to do something for the Lord. She was so happy when the old man told her that he had now put his trust in the Lord Jesus, and that she had been the one used of God to lead his soul out of darkness into His marvelous light.

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31.

ML 05/08/1938

Whomsoever

A messenger came to a Sunday school superintendent and said,

“Hasten as quickly as you can, there’s a boy in a garret wanting to see you. He is dying.”

The superintendent hastened to the place, and found, lying on a heap of straw, a boy who had been crushed by a cart.

As he entered, the boy quickly said, “Didn’t I hear you say the other Sunday, ‘that whomsoever a fellow comes to Jesus, he would be saved’?”

“Yes,” replied the visitor, “I said something like that.”

“Well,” said the boy, “then I am saved. I have been a bad boy, but I’ve been thinking about that, and I have taken God at His word, so I’m saved.”

He did not quote the words exactly, but he had grasped the meaning of them, and believed them too.

“God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten son, that whosoever, believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.

“Him that cometh to Me, I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

ML 05/08/1938

"He Could Not Love Me Better"

Do you love Jesus better now than you did three months since?” I asked a young girl who had then trusted in Him as her Saviour.

“Yes, I love Him better every day,” she replied.

“Tell me, does Jesus love you better now than He did three months since?” In a thoughtful and decided tone she replied,

“No, He could not do that; He could not love me better!” Her calm, quiet response brought most forcibly and preciously to my mind that beautiful verse,

“Jesus Christ, the same yesterday, and today, and forever.” Heb. 13:8.

Dear reader, have you learned to trust: in Jesus as your Saviour? If so, can you rest in Himself as the unchangeable One, as the One who, with unabated affection, “having loved His own which were in the world, loved them to the end;” as the One who is filled with untiring, unchanging love to each and all who have trusted in His finished work for salvation—as the One “who could not love you better”?

The secret of my young friend’s growth in the knowledge and love of the Lord Jesus, and “of her loving Him better every day,” was her rejoicing in the unclouded sunshine of His unchanging love.

ML 05/08/1938

The Tent of God Set up in Canaan, and the Land of Canaan Divided

After the wars in Canaan were ended, and Israel could live safely, the Tabernacle was taken from Gilgal to a place called Shiloh. The people all met there and the Tent was set up, no doubt as it had been at Mt. Sinai, with its pillars and coverings, its court and furniture.

Shiloh was near the center of the land and must have been the place chosen by God for that time. As He had told them before they entered, that they should bring their sacrifices and gifts to a place He would choose (Joshua 18:1; Deut. 12:11).

Later, God chose Jerusalem. This must have been a happy time, when they could thank God for their new homes and lands.

Also, before Israel crossed the Jordan River, God had said that when they had taken the land of Canaan, it should be divided among them,—the largest shares to the large tribes, and smaller shares to the small tribes (Numbers 33:54.)

Excepting the tribe of Levi should have no land by themselves, for the men from that tribe were to care for the Tabernacle and the worship of God. But they were to have cities in each of the other tribes, where they could live with their families, and have fields for their cattle (Josh. 14:4).

You remember all these people were of the families of Jacob’s twelve sons, who had become so many that those of each son were called a tribe.

But the people of Joseph were divided in two tribes, Manasseh and Ephraim. Judah was the tribe and was given the most land, the country south from Jerusalem to the Dead Sea. The tribe of Simeon was given their share with Judah (Josh. 19:9). The tribes of Reuben and Gad and half of Manasseh got no share in Canaan, because they had wanted their land across Jordan.

So the land was divided just as the Lord said, and the people went to live in their lands.

We cannot now know just where all the boundaries were, as the names are not all the same now. But if you look on a Bible map of Canaan, you will see the land marked for each tribe, as well as is now known.

How many cities were given to the people of Levi? (Josh. 21:41).

Can you name the thirteen tribes? Their names can be found in Joshua 18:7,11, and 19:1,10,17,24, 32, and 40.

ML 05/08/1938

The Name Above Every Name

“Thou shalt call His Name JESUS: for He shall save His people from their sins.” Matthew 1:21.

‘Twas God Who gave the precious Name

Of “Jesus” to His Son,

Because for all His people’s sin

And guilt He should atone.

The Name of “Jesus” Saviour means,

And such He is indeed,

To all who know the weight of sin,

And peace and pardon need.

His Name was Jesus when on earth,

His Name is Jesus now;

And God declares that to that Name

All heaven and earth shall bow.

And truly happy is the child

Who loves that precious Name;

He soon shall Him in glory see,

Who once in mercy came.

ML 05/08/1938

Little Harry's Reason for Loving Jesus

One evening I was visiting at the house of a friend, where were three children. The eldest was Harry, a serious, thoughtful boy, between four and five years of age; the next was Freddy, a merry, roguish little fellow; the youngest was little Matty, who never liked to be still a minute. Matty sat in my lap, and Harry and Freddy stood by my side, while I told them a story about a little boy who loved to pray to Jesus.

They all listened very attentively till the story was ended, when I asked them whether they loved Jesus. Harry said he was sure he did; and just as he said so his mamma came into the room. I told her what her little boy had been saying, when she took his hand and asked Him,

“But why does Harry love Jesus?”

“Because,” he replied, looking up to his mamma’s face with a sweet smile, “Jesus first loved Harry, Mamma.”

“We love Him, because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19.

ML 05/08/1938

"Behold I Come Quickly"

“Behold I come quickly.”

Yes, this is the word,

The promise once given

By Jesus our Lord.

“Behold I come quickly.”

E’er sweetly the same;

Then why should I care

For earth’s riches and fame.”

“Behold I come quickly.”

If sorrow is mine,

With this cheering promise

Why should I repine?

“Behold I come quickly.”

Is joy mine below?

Still greater my joy

When to Jesus I go.

“Behold I come quickly.”

Let come, then, what may,

This comforting promise

My spirit shall stay.

“Behold I come quickly.”

His word must abide.

I’ll soon be with Jesus,

Safe, safe at His side.

ML 05/08/1938

Happy Children

A number of children have gathered in the grounds of a large home and are having a pleasant time. Some poor children have come in and are looking wistfully at all the good things they see.

One little girl, with pity and love in her heart for these poor children, has left the others, with a basketful of fruit and other good things, to give to these children.

We hope our dear friends will not forget the poor. We should share with them what God has given to us. This is what the Lord would have us do, and even more, for the word is,

“When thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind; and thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee.” Luke 14:13,14.

You will notice one boy seems afraid to go near, although he sees the others getting the fruit freely, and the little girl is handing it out to them as fast as she can. He seems to be the oldest one in the hunch.

This is like many today; they hear of the offer of salvation, full and free, but they are afraid to accept it. The Word of God says,

“Let him that is athirst come; and whosoever will, let him rake the water of life freely.” Rev. 22:17.

The Lord wank us to come to Him, for He came from the highest glory, down to this poor world of sin to save us. Do not then be like the boy who is holding off, but come to the Lord Jesus now, if you have not already done so.

“Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

“HE THAT HATH PITY UPON THE POOR, LENDETH UNTO THE LORD: AND THAT WHICH HE HATH GIVEN, WILL HE PAY HIM AGAIN.” Proverbs 19:17.

ML 05/15/1938

The Expected Arrival

A distinguished nobleman’s parliamentary engagements detained him in L. during the summer months. I need not stay to tell you of the extended lawns, and gardens, and its lovely lakes, because I want to impress upon your minds a thought of quite another character—readiness.

Quite unexpectedly a letter was received at the mansion to the effect that his lordship would be at his seat in a few days. Now, supposing everything, both in the house, and about the grounds, had been neglected and left to disorder, how much would have had to be done, and how quickly, too, for the master’s return.

Happily it was not so; but still there were many things to be righted, and much to be seen to, that nothing unseemly should meet the eye of the master, so beloved and revered.

Now, cannot we, dear children, draw a lesson from this incident? You know that the One whom the disciples called Master, and whom Christians now call Lord, is gone away for a time. He is gone to heaven, occupied there with His people, and He has sent a message that He is coming again. You know that even before He left this world He not only said, “I am come,”but “I will come.”

And one peculiarity about His coming is that He did not say when, but “soon.” So that the Lord’s coming may be called—as was that of the nobleman—an expected arrival.

Are you ready for Him? Have you left all in disorder, like the poor world that does not believe He is coming at all? Or, having thought of His coming at some time or other, have forgotten that it will be “soon?”

You know what the first concern is—to have peace through His precious blood, and then to be adorned with all the precious fruits of His Spirit—love, joy, and desire of heart for His return. I know some of my dear young readers can say from the heart “Come, Lord Jesus,” not next year, or next week, but now. The perfecting of our bliss, and His joy, await that moment.

O that His near, His expected arrival, may waken up our hearts! that like the virgins of the 25th of Matthew, we may “go forth to meet Him.”

ML 05/15/1938

A Child's Faith

Little Rose was one of the youngest members of a Bible class in which they were taught to trust God, not only for the salvation of their souls but also for their care and the provision of all their needs. Her parents were at one time in easy circumstances, but money owed to her father had not been paid, and at the time of our story, food was very expensive; so it happened at times the children were in want, and yet were remarkable for their blooming appearance. There was too much dignity of character about the parents to make their privations public, and, as the mother had a skillful hand, the children were always neatly attired.

Little did Rosie’s teacher, or indeed any of her companions, guess that the child often came hungry to Sunday school, or with no other dinner than the vegetables their little garden afforded.

One Sunday, as the family were at dinner, Rosie, who was ‘the eldest, noticed that there was but a small piece of bread left for tea, so when her mother offered her a little of it, she refused it. On retiring to her bedroom the child began to speak to herself after this fashion:

“My father and my mother are Christians, and Jesus is my Saviour. He loves me I know, and I love Him, for I am His. Does He not care that I am hungry?” She had closed the door, and falling upon her knees, with the tears streaming down her cheeks, she said:

“O, my Father in heaven, who loved me so much as to send Jesus, Thy dear Son to die for me, wilt Thou not let the people pay my father what they owe him, so that we may have plenty to eat? The Bible says to those that belong to Thee—and I belong to Thee—‘Bread shall be given him; his waters shall be sure’ (Isa. 33:16). O God, Thou knowest we have not bread enough for all of us! Thou knowest my father will not allow us to go in debt for anything. O God, do help us according as Thou hast promised, for the sake of the Lord Jesus.” After this prayer Rosie went to Sunday school.

“Perhaps,” thought she, “some of my schoolfellows will invite me to take tea with them; if so, I will go.”

The Bible lesson was a cheering one that afternoon, and the heart of the child was lifted above the things of time to the things of eternity. After an affectionate farewell to her teacher, Rosie, was met at the door of the school by one of the elder girls of the class, who said rather confusedly,

“I hope you will not be offended, Rose, but yesterday, while I was helping my mother to bake, the thought kept coming in my head, to make a cake for you; and here it is,” added she, tugging at something under her shawl, and producing a currant cake sufficiently large to provide tea for a whole family. Seeing Rosie’s stare of blank astonishment, the girl continued,

“Once, when you were at our house, I heard you say you liked our plain currant cake, so that was why I made you this one. My mother said you would be offended, but I knew you better than that. So here it is,” and leaving the parcel in Rosie’s hands, Bessie Green an away as if half ashamed of her kindness.

For a moment little Rosie stood at the door of the schoolhouse, with the parcel in her hand, and then she hurried home, to fall upon her knees and to give thanks to her Father in heaven, who, even before she called, had been answering.

Rosie could but wonder why Bessie should think of doing such an unusual thing as to bring a cake to the Sunday school! But the Lord leads people to do, strange things in order to be His messengers, in caring for those Who put their trust in Him.

The next day one of her father’s debtors called and paid him some money, and in this she saw an additional answer to her prayer. The quick response to that Sunday afternoon’s appeal has never been forgotten, and is still most sweet to her. During all the many years that passed since that day, she was never again in such need for bread.

Years after the occurrence of the incident, she confided these details to her teacher.

Well would it be for us all if we would thus learn, with the faith of a little child, to cast our care upon the Lord, for He careth for us.

“All things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” Matthew 21:22.

ML 05/15/1938

In the Shepherd's Bosom

There is a special blessedness in being saved while we are children—a place of peculiar nearness to Jesus, that only those who become His in youthful years have the promise of receiving. Concerning those who are converted when young, and brought into His flock, it is said,

“He shall gather the lambs with His arm, and carry them in His bosom.” Isaiah 40:11.

Those “little ones who believe in Him” He takes into this place of special affection, near to His heart, and carries them safely along the way to the Home of ills love in heaven.

What a mistake for little boys and girls to refuse to accept Him as their Saviour, and to say they will come to Jesus when they are older.

Even were this possible—and it is not always so, for they sometimes die—they lose the special place that the Shepherd would have given them, had they but come to Him. when they were “little children.” He carries in. His bosom—the lambs of His flock. Jesus said,

“I am the good Shepherd: the Good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep.” John 10:11.

ML 05/15/1938

The Rewards of Joshua and Caleb

Joshua 14:6-14 and 19:49,50

You remember that twelve men were sent from the camp of Israel white they were in the desert land, to learn about the land and people of Canaan.

When the men returned, ten of them said it was not a safe land to go to because there were giants there. But two of them, Joshua and Caleb, said it was a good land and the Lord would help them go in. The people became very angry at them and tried to stone them, but the Lord saved them, and they were the only ones of the men who later got into Canaan (Num. 14:6-10).

In the Book of Joshua we learn that God had promised to give Joshua and Caleb special kind to be theirs and their children’s. Caleb asked for his part in a mountain, which was not easy to take from the men of Canaan who were mighty men, but he took it, although he was then eighty-five years old. And Joshua received his part also in a mountain and lived there. So these men were both very brave and strong, although they were not young. The reason they had so much courage was because they really believed God’s promises, and that He would help them.

A daughter of Caleb, also thought the land good to be used. Her father gave her and her husband a field and she asked for a part with a spring of water and her father gave her two places of springs, which would refresh them and others (Josh. 15:17-20).

Perhaps you remember of some other daughters who asked for a share of land, because their father was dead, and there were no sons. These five sisters came to Joshua and he told them where their share should be (Num. 27:1-8; Josh. 17:3-6).

Then there were some of the people who asked for more lands than were allotted to them, and they were told that they could take more (Josh. 17:14-18 and 19:47).

You see it is not greedy to ask for more of God’s gifts, because there is plenty for all, and He wishes to give. But His gifts now are not of fields or springs, but of joy and comfort of His Word, and He will add to our joy and knowledge, so we may also help others, if we value and use what He already has given.

ML 05/15/1938

How to Be Saved

We are not saved by trying,

From self can come no aid;

‘Tis on the blood relying,

Once for our ransom paid.

‘Tis looking unto Jesus

The holy One and just;

‘Tis His great work that saves us,

It is not Try, but Trust.

ML 05/15/1938

Pigeons

The pigeon is a well-known bird, and perhaps our little readers have often watched them as they gently and quietly picked up the grain thrown down to them; so we will not take the time to speak of their interesting habits.

Perhaps you would like to know why this bird is so frequently mentioned in the Bible. It was, along with the turtle dove which is of the pigeon tribe, often used by the poor in various sacrifices. Pigeons are very common in Palestine, and if any persons were too poor to buy a pair for an offering, the young could easily be caught in the rocks. Thus God graciously ordered it that the poorest could obtain what they needed.

In connection with the trespass offering; if a person was too poor to bring a lamb, he was permitted to bring two turtle doves or two young pigeons.

Now here we may learn a very important lesson: we, as sinners, in order to approach God, must bring-a suitable sacrifice, and that Sacrifice is Christ who has offered Himself on the cross.

“So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many.” Hebrews 9:28.

Surely none can say they are too poor for the Sacrifice! It was the poor, the Lord said, who had the gospel preached unto them (Matt. 11:55) So that all are without excuse now who have not salvation.

“THEREFORE BEING JUSTIFIED BY FAITH, WE HAVE PEACE WITH GOD THROUGH OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.” Romans 5:1.

Have you, dear reader, put your trust in Christ and His work on the cross? Do you have peace with God? You may have it.

ML 05/22/1938

Ben's Banner

After this the judgment where will you spend eternity?

It was a procession day. Crowds of people lined the streets. Banners were hung out of the windows bearing various mottos, in keeping with the great celebrations of the day. At the end of the street leading up to his father’s house, Ben stood with his banner also. There were few, if any, of the banners of that day, that were looked at so eagerly as Ben’s. The others spoke of Time: Ben’s of Eternity.

The many mottos and devices fluttering in the breeze, proclaimed the deeds of men, and their wonderful skill. Ben’s banner reminded them of what comes after all—the Judgment.

I could not but admire the dear boy as he stood there hour after hour, while thousands passed by, with a happy smile on his face, delighted that he was able to thus bear testimony to the Lord Jesus. Ben knew Jesus. He trusted Him, when quite a little boy, and his heart was happy in His love. Now his delight was to tell others of Him, and it was this that brought him out with his banner, and his school satchel full of Gospel Tracts that day.

One at least confessed that he never could forget the question on Ben’s banner. It followed him night and day, till he was converted. Look what the question is, and see if you can answer it, reader. “Where will you spend Eternity?” Solemn is’nt it. Eternity—that wonder full word! It means for ever. For ever in glory with Christ, or for ever in the lake of fire. Do you ever think in which of theses two, your eternity will be spent? All who believe in Christ as their Saviour now will be in glory hereafter. So you may easily know. Are you in Christ?

“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Cor. 6:2.

ML 05/22/1938

"And What Then?"

As I looked upon a number of young friends whom I had not seen for some years, I thought 01 The words written concerning Esau and Jacob,

“And the boys grew.”

These friends of mine had grown taller and stouter since I last saw them. Their tenderer years were passing; childhood was merging into youth. Soon youth would pass into manhood, the summit of the hill would be reached, and then the descent begin, and so “eternity.”

Do you remember the story entitled And what then?’ A boy was asked what he was going to do after leaving-school.

“I shall go to college,” he replied.

“And what then?”

“O, I shall get my degree.”

“And what then?”

“O, I shall study law,”

“And what then?

“I shall pass my examinations and be called to the Bar.”

“And what then?”

“I shall get to be a judge.”

“And what then?”

“Well...well, I shall be getting old then.”

“Well what then?”

“O! then...then I shall die.”

“And what then?”

He had not looked so far ahead, and did not like the question.

Have you faced it? Life appears long indeed to the boy. But it passes unnoticed, “swifter than a weaver’s shuttle,” and soon is over. Time will end.

“Eternity is drawing nigh.” And what then?

O, give Christ your boyhood and youth and manhood. Then will Time be happy and useful; and “Eternity” be blessed and glorious.

“Seek ye the Lord while He may be found; call ye upon Him while He is near.” Isaiah 55:6.

ML 05/22/1938

A Brave Boy

A ship was once returning from T. to H. with a rich cargo and many passengers, when she was overtaken by a violent storm.

The captain saw the danger the ship was in on such a rocky coast, and gave orders to put out to sea, but the wind drove the vessel towards the shore.

Among the most active on board was a young boy, James by name, acting as cabin-boy. His mother, who lived at H., was very poor, but James loved her tenderly, and he was very proud of the prospect of taking to her $2.50 which he had earned and saved on this voyage.

All at once a shock was felt; the vessel had struck on a rock.

“Lower the boats,” cried the captain. This was done, but no sooner were the boats in the water than they were carried away by the violence of the waves.

“We have but one hope of safety,” said the captain. “One of us must run the risk of swimming with a rope to the shore”; but who would undertake it, that was the question. At this moment there was a stir among the sailors.

“Captain,” said one, “this little chap, the cabin-boy, is asking if he may swim to shore.” And he pushed James into the midst of the circle.

“Does he know how to swim?” asked the captain.

“O yes,” replied one, “he can swim well.”

The captain hesitated at first, but as the lives of all were in danger, he consented to let the boy go. James ran to prepare for the terrible struggle in the water, but first he said, “Captain, as I may be lost, may I ask you to take charge of this money, and if you get safely to land give it to my mother who lives at H.

“Certainly, my boy,” said the captain, who was half sorry he had said the boy might risk his life.

One end of a ball of string was then tied round the boy’s body and the ball itself kept on the ship, to be let out slowly as he made his way through the waves. James was soon in the water, and in a little while seemed nothing but a black speck rising on the top of the waves as they rolled towards to the shore.

How anxiously they watched that ball of string, for it told them how the boy was making progress towards the shore. Sometimes the string was pulled out quickly and then it would seem quite to stop.

After watching and waiting for about an hour, all at once a violent pull was given to the cord, and then a second and third. These three strong pulls was a signal that the boy had reached the land and the sailors gave a shout of joy. They quickly tied a strong rope to the cord, which was drawn on shore as fast as they could let it out and firmly held by the people who had come to help the cabin-boy.

By means of this rope the sailors reached the shore, and not long after they saw the vessel sink.

But what about the boy James? Ah! he was ill for a long while as a result of the great fatigue and also from the bruises he received. But we must love that boy for the way he risked his life to save the others, for he might have been drowned in the attempt.

What a beautiful illustration of the way in which the Lord Jesus laid down His life for us sinners, who could not save ourselves. He died that we might never die, if we believe on Him who raised up Jesus our Lord from the dead.

“God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8.

ML 05/22/1938

The Refuge Cities Named

Joshua 20

We read that God said the people should have cities of refuge. Those were cities where any person, who, by accident, caused another person to be hurt and die, could run to, and be kept safe from the one who would punish him.

There were to be six of these cities, each in a central part, and all the people were to be told about them.

The plan for these safe cities had been written down before they cone to Canaan. Yet Joshua might have forgotten to tell the people just which cities were for refuge. But the Lord did not forget, and reminded Joshua to appoint them.

So three cities on the west side of the Jordan River were named, and three cities on the east side. Those on the east of Jordan had been chosen before by Moses (Deut. 4:41-43).

The people who lived in the refuge cities were of the tribe of Levi, and the men took care of the Tent of God. Some of those men were to listen to the story of any man who ran to a refuge city, and judge if true, and keep him there where no one could hurt him.

The plan for the cities of refuge shows us how well God knew the troubles which the people would have, and how carefully He planned to save those who would do as He said.

We do not read after this of any who ran to a refuge city, but surely there were those who had such trouble and believed God’s way to save them, and would quickly run to the nearest refuge city.

But if anyone hated another person, and caused his death on purpose; that one could not stay in a refuge city, but must be punished for his sin (Num. 35:9-16; Deut. 19:1-11).

May years after, God sent His Son, the Lord Jesus, to that same land of Canaan, and He was cruelly put to death (Acts 3:14-19). Yet God has made Him to be the Refuge for all who will trust in Him, to save them from their sins.

“There is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” Acts 4:12.

ML 05/22/1938

"God so Loved the World"

John 3

Salvation! what a precious word!

Salvation! what a theme!

It casts across the sinner’s path

A radiant, heavenly beam!

However cheerless, dark, and sad,

The path before he trod,

Salvation conies with blissful rays,

And lights the soul to God.

Salvation is the precious boon

Of love divine to man;

Salvation is the grand result

Of God’s redemption plan.

It finds the sinner far from God,

And brings him very nigh;

It finds him full of sin and shame,

And makes him full of joy.

Salvation is the song on earth,

Of all who love the Lord;

Salvation is the theme of heaven,

Its fullest, sweetest chord.

The Saviour bids the sinner come,

And join the glorious strain;

Rest in the Saviour’s precious love,

And light and joy obtain.

ML 05/22/1938

Can You Fix This?

Dolly’s cradle has been broken, and, like everything else in this world, needs repairing in a very short time. Nothing here lasts forever, any more than we do.

A few things on this earth last longer than we do, but after this life, there is eternity for us. God breathed into man’s nostrils the breath of life, so man is in contrast to all the animals, and therefore he lives forever. We have spirit as, well as soul. The great question is,

Where are we going to spend eternity?

We cannot get fixed up, so that we can spend eternity on this earth. The oldest man that ever lived on this earth was Methuselah, but he died at the age of 969 years. There is an end here it is well for us to think of it, for eternity has two sides to it: one of joy, and the other of sorrow. Which will it be with you, dear reader?

God has provided the salvation for us that we need, so that we might have the eternity of joy, and all that He has asked us to do, is simply to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. He is the One who took our place, and bore what we deserved while He was in the three hours of darkness on Calvary’s cross.

“He believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on Him.” John 3:36.

“THESE THINGS HAVE I WRITTEN UNTO YOU THAT BELIEVE ON THE NAME OF THE SON OF GOD; THAT YE MAY KNOW THAT YE HAVE ETERNAL LIFE.” 1 John 5:13.

ML 05/29/1938

Which Are You Like?

One, day my father brought home a magnet that looked very much like a little horseshoe, and gave it to us to play with. We used to have great fun with it, making, it pick up nails and screws and needles and all sorts of pieces of steel, but I think the thing I remember best about it was a lesson he once taught us about it.

He got some needles and some pins, and mixed them all up together, and then took the magnet and held it over the top of them. All the needles jumped up to meet the magnet, and all the pins were left bind. Can you tell me why this was, children?

O, you say, the needles were steel, and the pins were brass. Yes, that was it, though they both looked the same color outside, the inside of the pins was not right to be attracted by the magnet.

Now you know, dear children, if you and I are to go to be with the Lord Jesus, we must be right inside. We must be born again. Last night some children were singing that hymn,

We know there’s a bright and a glorious home,

Away in the heaven high,

Where all the redeemed shall with Jesus dwell;

But will you be there and I?”

I said to a little girl, “Will you be there, Flo?”

“O, yes,” she said, “I’ve always been a good girl. I’ll be there!”

She looked all right outside, but she was

There was another difference between the needles and the pins. The pins all had heads and the needles all had eyes. Now that is just the difference between a great many people who are not saved, and those who are. You know we use our heads for thinking, don’t we? So some child says,

“I think the way to get to heaven is by being good,” and so they use their heads and don’t get to heaven, because God says, “There is none that doeth good, no not one,” and instead of going God’s way, they go the way they think is right.

Now some other child, perhaps, has all eye—an eye of faith—and uses it to look to Jesus. God says,

“Look unto Me, and be ye saved.” Isaiah 45:22. I daresay you remember how, when the people in the wilderness were bitten with the fiery serpents, all they had to do was to look to the serpent of brass on the pole, and they were made better (Numbers 21). So Jesus says,

“As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even Cu must the Son of Man be lifted up: that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:14-15.

That is how we look to Jesus, just believe in Him. We trust Him to take us to heaven, instead of trusting to what we think.

And now, dear child, which are you like, the pin that looks all right inside, but is not right inside? Are you trusting to being good, or something else you think of; or are you like the needle, with an eye to look to Jesus. Do you believe on the Lord Jesus Christ? Have you eternal life?

“There is life in a look at the crucified One,

There is life at this moment for thee; Then look sinner look, unto Him and be saved, Unto Him who was nailed to the tree. Look, look, look and live!”

ML 05/29/1938

"My Sins Are Remembered No More"

Hullo! so you have come at last. Have you enjoyed the holidays? Why didn’t you come sooner?” Such were the questions which welcomed Jean back to school after the holidays.

Jean was a favorite among the girls, and as she stood on the threshold of the old school, the feelings of home-sickness which had brought tears to her eyes as her father kissed her, fled at the sound of the cheery voices around.

There was such a lot to be said and done, such unpacking of trunks and cases, and such excitement as each newcomer arrived. So the first day soon passed, and before long the holidays were almost forgotten in the round of duties which each day brought.

Jean was a Christian, and she often talked to the girls about the Lord Jesus, Who was her Saviour and Friend.

At night, when the lights were out, the senior girls were allowed to talk quietly for a while before going to sleep.

“Jean,” said Madge, one night, “do sing to us some of the hymns you have at your home.” So Jean sang softly,

“I’ll give you a piece of good news today,

My sins are remembered no more.

For Jesus has taken them all away,

My sins are remembered no more.”

When the whole hymn had been sung she said,

“Madge, can you say that your sins are all forgiven?”

Reader, what would your answer be to this all-important question? Can you answer in the words of the hymn,

“My transgressions were many, my soul was black,

My sins are remembered no more,

For God has cast them behind His back,

My sins are remembered no more.”

Madge could not say that. She answered carelessly,

“O, I’m all right, my Daddy is a Christian, so I need not worry. Jesus won’t take him to heaven without me.”

Jean tried to explain to her the necessity of coming to the Lord Jesus herself as a guilty sinner, but Madge would say little more on the subject, and before long they were both fast asleep.

It is Satan who blinds the minds of the young, and so they go on heedless as to where they will spend eternity.

These two girls grew up and left school; Jean still trying in a small measure to serve her loving Saviour, Madge still unsaved. They have never met since. Jean often wonders if she will one day meet Madge, and hear that she has since trusted in the Lord Jesus. If she never sees her again on earth she longs that she may meet her in heaven.

Reader, do not trust any of your own foolish thoughts, but put your trust simply in the Lord Jesus Christ.

“Blessed are all they who put their trust in Him.” Psalms 2:12.

ML 05/29/1938

Ethel's Question

A little, girl, four years old, inquired of her mother one moonlight night: “Mamma, is the moon God’s light?”

The lights had just been turned out, and the timid little girl was afraid of the dark; but she saw the bright moon out of the window, and so she asked the question.

“Yes, Ethel; God’s light is always burning,” replied her mother.

“Will God blow out His light and go to sleep, too?”

“No, my child; His light never goes out.”

Then the timid little girl gave an answer which thrilled her mother’s heart:

“Well, mamma, while God is awake, I am not afraid!”

One of the comforting statements of God’s Word is,

“He that keepeth thee will not slumber.” Psalms 121:3.

What a wonderful God we have. He loves to have us love and believe His Word and trust Him fully.

ML 05/29/1938

The Big Altar by the River

Joshua 22

You remember that only the of war of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh went with the rest of Israel across the Jordan River into Canaan; but they left their families with their flocks in the land east of Jordan, where they wanted to live, because they liked that land for pastures (Josh. 1:12-16)

As we think of the children of those tribes, we wonder if they watched their fathers and relatives cross over the dry road God made. in the river; perhaps they were too far away, or too busy keeping the cattle and flacks. And they missed the joy of entering Canaan.

After those men had helped in the battles in. Canaan, Joshua told them they could go back to their families, only to be sure to remember the words God had spoken to all.

The men started back to the country east of Jordan. As they journeyed., they. seemed to have been thinking how their children would miss learning of the Lord, as the children of their relatives in Canaan would, at the Tabernacle.

So when they crossed the Jordan, and came to the place where God had led the big company across the river, they stopped and built a great altar. Usually an altar was made to burn sacrifices on (Ex. 20:24). God had said to all Israel that they should not take their offerings to any place except the one He chose, which was then at the Tabernacle in Shiloh (Deut. 12:13,14; Josh. 18:1).

The tribes in Canaan heard of the altar by the river, and they sent men to ask the men of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh why they had made another altar.

They answered that the new altar was not for sacrifices, but only for all their children to see; to remember that the same Lord was God of all.

Those men could, no doubt, have had pastures for their cattle with the rest in Canaan, if they had believed God’s promises. Then their children could have enjoyed the feasts and times of praise to God with the other children in Canaan. The big altar at Jordan could not really help them any, because it was not one God had said to build, and the place to have God’s blessing is always where He tells His people to go.

ML 05/29/1938

"Will Jesus Take Care of Me?"

“Will Jesus take care of me, Mother?

Who lives in the mansions on high;

Can He see me, here in the darkness?

And watch me while sleeping I lie?”

“‘Will Jesus take care of me, Mother?

I don’t like the darkness, you know:

O! was that the cat on the window?

Those noises do frighten me so!”

“O! don’t shut the nursery door, Mother,

For then I can’t hear when you speak:”

“Hush! hush! do not cry so, my dear one;

To trust Jesus’ love, ever seek.”

“Please kneel down and ask the Lord Jesus

To watch me,” then Emily said,

So We asked Him who loves little children,

To watch by dear Emily’s bed.

“Remember He cares for you, dearie;

If a poor little sparrow should fall,

His watchful eye scent the birdie;

You know He takes care of us all.

“So fret not because of the darkness,

But ask the Lord Jesus to stay,

To be with you there in the corner,

To care for you every day.”

ML 05/19/1938

Answers to Bible Questions for April

“The Children’s Class”

1.“But when Jesus,” etc. Mark 10:14.

2.“As soon as,” etc. 5:36,

3.“And straightway,” etc.1:70.

4.“And from thence,” etc.7:24.

5.“Now when Jesus,” etc.16:9.

6.“So ye in like manner,” etc. 13:29.

7.“For whosoever,” etc. 3:35.

Bible Questions for June

“The Children’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in Luke, Chapters 13-24

1.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Came down, and received him joyfully.”

2.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Receive the kingdom of God as a little child.”

3.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Go and sit down in the lowest room.”

4.Write in full the verse containing the words, ‘‘Who shall give you that winch is your own?”

5.Write in full the verse containing the words, “He was known of them in breaking of bread,”

6.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Not an hair of your head perish,’’

7.What would the Lord Jesus have done for the children of Jerusalem, but they would not?

Answers to Bible Questions for April

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

1. “Truly this man was the Son of God.” Mark 15:39.

2. Because he belongs to Christ. Mark 9:41.

3.“To every man his work.” Mark 13:34.

4. Satan. Mark 3:15.

5.Those who do the will of God. Mark 3:35.

6.“What shall it profit a man if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?” Mark 8:36.

7.Two mites—all her living. Mark 12:42,44.

ML 06/05/1938

Bible Questions for June

“The Young People’s Bible Class” The Answers are to be found in Luke 13-24

1. To whom was the parable of the Pharisee and the publican spoken?

2.What shalt happen except ye repent?

3.Into what three parts did the Lord divide the Scriptures?

4.What healed the enmity between Pilate and Herod?

5.What verse shows that a restored backslider may still be acceptably used in testimony for Christ?

6.How long are we to occupy for Christ?

7.Is being “taken” in chapters 17, blessing or judgment?

ML 06/05/1938

The Word of God

What a lot of pretty toys these dear little girls have and how interested they seem in their lovely picture books. No doubt their kind parents delight in making them happy.

As these girls grow older, they will want other books, and we all need to be very careful what kind of books we read. Some are very helpful to us and some very harmful.

The Bible is the very best book to read, and will never harm us. It is the Word of God, and as new born babes we are to desire the sincere milk of the Word, that we may grow thereby (1 Peter 2:2).

The Bible tells us that we are all sinners (Rom. 3:23), and that the Lord Jesus came down to die on the cross to save poor lost sinners (Rom. 5:8). How He must love us to have died for us, and to have borne the punishment for us. We have many verses in Scripture which tell of His is wonderful love. Can you think of one?

“ALL WE LIKE SHEEP HAVE GONE ASTRAY; WE HAVE TURNED EVERY ONE TO HIS OWN WAY; AND THE LORD HATH LAID ON HIM THE INIQUITY OF US ALL.” Isaiah 53:6.

And now, dear reader, He wants every boy and girl, man and woman to put their trust in Him, and accept Him as their own personal Saviour. Have you done so? If not, won’t you come to Him now, just as you are?

ML 06/05/1938

The Way

Are any of you, I wonder, as fond as I am of taking long walks? You may like walking, but until you are older probably your walks will not be very long. Whether they are long or short, if we are not sure which way to turn to get home, is it not a comfort, when in answer to our question,

“Which way?” someone says, “That is the way?” We may think the person is mistaken, and go the way we think is the right one; but we soon find we are wrong, and that one way only is right.

During the summer we were spending our holidays in a new place, and one morning my sister and I came to a part we did not know very well. I said,

“I think we turn to the left here.” So we did, but soon found we were going quite the wrong way, and, I am sorry to say, were a little late in reaching our destination. Had we taken the turning that she said was the right way we would have been in time.

Now we are all on the way through life, and we all hope it will lead to heaven; but let us ask ourselves,

“Am I in the right way?”

Someone was writing lately about seven ways to heaven! So how can we tell which way to go? You will find the answer in John 14:6,

“Jesus saith unto him, I am THE Way,” That is quite plain, isn’t it? Yes, there is no question there as to a number of different ways, or as to which you think is the right one. The verse, which is God’s Word, speaks only of one way—faith in Him Who shed His blood on Calvary’s cross to wash away the sins of everyone who believes on Him. That is not a way of our own choosing, but God’s way—the strait gate and narrow way “which leadeth unto life.”(Matt. 7:14).

God speaks of another way—a wide way with a broad gate; but it does not lead to heaven, and if you read the verse (Matt. 7:13), you will see how sad is the end of all who walk in it.

Ere it is too late, may each of you choose God’s way—the narrow way, the only way to heaven.

“I am the way, the truth and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me.” John 14:6.

ML 06/05/1938

Mary's Faith

One day, in a school in one of our large cities, a cry of fire sounded, and the teachers and children rushed towards the door and crowded, till there was danger of trampling some of the smaller children under the larger ones feet. During the panic one dear little girl sat still in her place, tranquil and quiet.

Presently the alarm was found to be false, and the pupils again took their seats. Then the girl seated next to Mary said to her,

“Mary, how was it that you could sit so quiet when we were all so frightened?”

“My father told me,” said Mary, “if there was an alarm of fire, it was best for us to sit still in our seats and wait for the teachers to tell us what to do. My father is a fireman, and he knows best.”

Ah, here was faith—faith in a father—and by this faith Mary was enabled to remain calm when others were dismayed.

Just so, children, faith in God will enable us to face danger without fear.

“Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on. Thee: because he trusteth in “Thee,” Isa. 26:3.

ML 06/05/1938

Something to Choose

Joshua said to the men and women, boys and girls of Israel: “Choose you this day whom you will serve.” How could they serve the Lord who lives above, and they on the earth? By doing as He had told them.

The Lord speaks to our hearts now by those and other words, for us to choose also. He has done for us even more for them, because since then, the Lord Jesus came to be the Saviour of the world. All who believe in Him can serve Him, if they remember His Words.

This was Joshua’s good choice: “As for me and my house (that meant all he had) we will serve the Lord.” Josh. 24:13.

“Praise the Saviour, ye who know Him!

Who can tell how much we owe Him?

Gladly let us render to Him

All we have and are.”

“If any man serve Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there shall also My servant be: if any man serve Me, him will My Father honor.” John 12:26.

ML 06/05/1938

A Talk Under a Tree

Josh. 23 and 24

Joshua was the brave leader of Israel many years. When he was old and knew he could not be with them longer, he wanted to tell them of God’s words once more. The people no longer lived in the big camp of tents, but each tribe had its own land with homes, fields, and gardens for all.

Joshua sent for the people to come to one place, called Shechem. This was the same place where all had come to hear the blessings and the curses read from the two mountains, some years before. It is said, by people who have been to this place, to be in a beautiful valley, with room for a very large crowd to gather. The older people and many of the children must have been at both of these meetings (Josh. 8:30-35).

Joshua stood, or sat, under an oak tree, and the Lord told him what to say to the people.

We would call this talk a review of their history. He reminded them how the Lord had led their parents away from the cruel king of Egypt; and the older people listening, could remember that time, when they themselves were children.

Joshua spoke of how God had made the army of Israel win over the many strong, but wicked men living in Canaan, so now they dwelt safely, although there were still a few enemies there, whom the Lord, would drive out also, if the people would do as He told them.

Some seem to have kept the heathen idols, and Joshua told them that those must be cast away, for they could not bow down to the images of animals or other things, and also worship the living God. So he asked whom they chose to serve. They said, “The Lord our God will we serve and His voice will we obey.”

Joshua’s words were written in the book of the law of God, so, no doubt, were placed in the ark with the writings of Moses.

Then Joshua had a great stone set up under that tree, so when the people saw it, they would be reminded of God’s words. Then all returned to their homes.

Do you remember what Jacob hid many years before under an oak tree at that same place? Perhaps it was under the same tree, for they grow to be very old (Gen. 35:4).

Can you find Shechem on a map of Canaan? (near the center).

Find the age of Joshua when he died (Joshua 24:29).

ML 06/05/1938

Seeking

It is hard to tell just what these children are doing, but they are busy with something that seems quite interesting.

The girl on the left is holding her hands out, as though she had just had them in the water, and the little one in front of her is stooping over at the water’s edge.

Another is going with her hands full to her older sister, while two others are playing with their treasures on the end of the big log.

Whether they are collecting pebbles, shells, or seaweed, or getting mud for mud-pies, it is hard to say. But it represents the story of life, —your life, and mine. We are all looking for—seeking something.

Most people, when old enough, have to look for work, so that they can earn the money they need for food and clothes.

Many are looking for pleasure. Others spend much dine searching for knowledge.

But some day our need and desire for all these things will be over, for we cannot carry them with us when we leave this world.

There is something, however, that can give us joy and blessing both in this life and in the life to come. This treasure we should all accept, if we have not already done so.

“And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life and this life is in His son.” 1 John 5:11.

“God commended His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8.

Dear young reader, if you do not already know Jesus as your Saviour, believe in Him now.

ML 06/12/1938

True Blue

A boy who worked in the docks was poor, but rich. He had little of this world’s goods, but he had come to Christ. He had come to Him in simple faith and was made rich—really rich for time and for eternity. Those riches which alone give heart satisfaction could never be taken away from him.

When in deep distress of soul he had come to the Saviour, and he had cried,

“O Lord, save I me! Do save me, Lord. If you will save me, I will be sure to be true blue, Lord.”

By being “true blue” he meant that he would be faithful and loyal to Christ.

The Lord received him and saved him. His word was true for him as it is for all.

“Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” He called and the Lord saved him.

Bright and happy in his new-found joy he sought to live true to his Saviour and Lord.

The test soon came. One of the men who was employed near him at the clocks wanted him to do a wrong thing. He offered the boy some money if he would do it. For a moment the boy hesitated, for he was very poor, and the money looked most tempting. Then suddenly the remembrance that he belonged to Christ, flashed into his mind. He felt his need of the strength of Christ to keep him, and immediately sinking down on to his knees he prayed,

“Lord, I told You if You would save me, I would be sure to be true blue, Lord. O, keep me true blue, Lord!”

Rising from his knees he at once said,

“You may keep year money, for I cannot do a wrong thing.”

This was a brave confession of Christ,

“Whosoever therefore shall confess Me before men, him will I confess also before: My Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 10:32.

ML 06/12/1938

Little Benny

Benny was a very little boy, so perhaps we need not wonder that he was not a very wise boy. He lived in a cozy little house, on a small farm, with his father and mother, several brothers, and a baby sister. All around Benny home stretched the wide prairie; covered in summer time with waving grass, and lovely flowers, roses of every shade of pink, grew in the greatest profusion, tall tiger lilies, yellow daisies, and many other flowers of every kind and color. Funny little gophers skipped in and out of their holes; field mice made their pretty nests in the tall plants, and now and then a harmless snake glided through the grass.

You will think that Benny had plenty of nice places to play in, but he did not care about any of these things; he soon got tired of picking wild flowers or chasing gophers, but one place he never wearied of. Can you guess what place it was? Well I do not believe you can. It was the big stable, in which his father kept a number of horses.

As soon as the little chap could walk, he toddled to the stable, and was more than once found asleep in the mangers. When he grew a little older, he spent his time playing with the harness, mixing up the pieces, buckling, and unbuckling the straps, until it was in such a tangle, it was hard to harness a horse. And how he loved the horses, he thought them nicer than any playfellows, and often he begged to be allowed to take his dinner or breakfast out, and eat it beside them.

“Mother,” he said one day, “I wish I was a horse.”

“Would you rather be a horse than a boy?” she enquired in surprise.

“Why, yes,” he answered, “ever so much rather. I wish, I do wish I could turn into a horse.”

Now, do you not think Benny was a foolish little boy? but as I said before, he was very young, only five years old.

Not long after Benny said this, a lady came to see his mother. She loved children and had a little Sunday school. While she was in the house, the little boy came in, and then his mother told the lady what a strange wish he had, and how he liked to be with the horses better than anything else.

“Why would you like to be a horse, Benny?” asked the lady.

“Well,” he said, “they are so pretty, and they can run so fast, and I love them.” Then the lady called the little fellow to her, and she said,

“Benny, when God made a man, He breathed into his nostrils, the breath of life, and a man will live forever and ever, but God did not breathe into the horse’s nostrils. When the horse dies, they dig a big hole, and put it into it, and that is the end of it, but when a man, or a little boy dies, that is not the end of him, his body is put in the grave, but the spirit, which God has given him, can never die; it goes on living forever and ever and ever, and some day God will open the grave of the little boy, and raise him up again; but the horse will never come out of his grave.” Benny was much pleased to hear this, and he asked:

“Where will the little boy go, when he comes out of the grave? Will he come back and live with his mother again?” But the lady shook her head.

“O, no,” she said, “I will tell you about it; there are two places, one is very happy and beautiful, and God lives there; and the other is very dark and very sad, and Satan will be there.”

“I would like to go to the happy place,” little Benny said, “may I?”

“Yes,” said the lady, “God wants you to come there, but He cannot have any naughty boys there,” Then Benny looked sad, for well he knew he was often naughty.

“But,” continued the lady, “God wants you so much to come and live with Him, that He sent His only Son into this world, and He was punished for all the naughty things you have done, was not that very kind of Him?”

Benny said, “Yes,” though I do not know how well he understood what he was told, but I am sure he thought about it, for he never again wished to be a horse. No, he felt glad that he was a boy.

Did you ever think what a wonderful thing it is to have a soul, that can never die? And have you ever asked yourself,

“Where would MY soul go, if I were to die?”

“These shall go away into everlasting punishment: but the righteous into life eternal.” Matthew 25:46.

“Having a desire to depart, and to be with Christ; which is far better.” Philippians 1:23.

ML 06/12/1938

On a Railroad Platform

A young Indian girl had brought some baskets to the station of a western town, hoping to sell to the travelers who often stepped from the train for a few minutes of outdoor air.

Several gathered around the girl, and admired the weaving and patterns of the various baskets. One lady bought a basket.

“You ask too much,” said a man, then turning to the others he said, “O they are here to cheat.”

“These are no cheat,” said the girl, “we make the baskets, and they take us many days.”

“So you say, but then, why not cheat? You will never see these people again,” and the man laughed. The next answer of the girl came slowly:

“‘What shall it profit a man if he gain the whole world and lose his own soul?’ We learned that verse at the mission and I will not cheat, or lie, to sell my baskets.”

Just then the call of, “All aboard!” was heard, and the people hurried back on the train.

We hope the wise answer of the Indian girl did good to the man. Anyway the Lord will help her to do the right, since she believes the true words she has learned, and she will be happy, if not rich.

“The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.” Prov.15:3.

ML 06/12/1938

Promises Which Came True

A Review

Sometimes we make promises, but are not able to keep them. But God has always kept His promises. And we notice many which came true in the time of Joshua.

God had said to Abraham: “Unto thy seed (a descendant, one born of his family) have I given this land (Canaan) (Gen. 15:18). Abraham owned no land there (except a burial ground). He lived in tents, moving to different parts of the wild lands.

God repeated this promise to, Abraham’s son, Isaac, and to his no Jacob, who also owned no land: “Unto thy seed, I will give all these countries.” They were told their “seed” should be a great multitude, and would spread to the north, south, east and west (Genesis 26:4; and 28:13,14).

Did these promises come true? Yes, that company, led by Joshua, which God brought into Canaan, were from the families of Jacob (also called Israel), so they were the “seed” of descendants of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. They were divided in tribes you remember, according to which son of Jacob they belonged. Each tribe received its share as had been told many years before. And the people all had homes, fields and gardens for their own (Joshua 24:13). Land promised especially to certain persons was given to them: to Caleb and Joshua; and to the five daughters whose father had died (Joshua 14:12-14; 19:49; 50; 17:3-4).

There were also other things told before which came true, as you will notice if you read over the Book of Joshua. But even these make us know how true were these words:

“There failed not ought of any good ting which the Lord had spoken unto the house of Israel: all came to pass.” Joshua 21:45.

The tribes of Israel are spoken of many times in the stories of this people. Do you remember the names?

Reuben, Issachar, Gad

Simeon, Zebulun, Asher

Levi, Dan, Joseph

Judah, Naphtali, Benjamin Joseph’s family was divided into two tribes, Manasseh and Ephraim.

ML 06/12/1938

Read the Bible, Children

Children taught to read the Bible,

In this highly-favored land;

Teach the children, Lord, to prize it!

May it prove the children’s friend!

Favored children!

Who its truths can comprehend

May this sacred Revelation,

Well instruct the youthful mind,

To escape the world’s temptation,

And its evils leave behind.

Happy children!

Who may this true wisdom find.

Hark! those children now in glory,

How they sing of Jesus there,

‘Twas His grace that made them holy;

Yes, before they entered there.

Blessed children!

Taken from the evil here.

ML 06/12/1938

Cattle

How much these cattle seem to like the water; they have hunted this marsh to get away from the heat. The trees, too, spreading over the water, make it more comfortable for them here. We are glad they can have such a refreshing spot.

Not only cows like to wade in water, but how much little boys and girls enjoy doing so, too. You have been wading at some time, I know; how cool the water seemed to your tired, hot feet, and how you liked to splash about in it. These little lakes and marshes are of so much comfort to us.

Isn’t it good of the Lord to give you these things for pleasure, as well as the things which supply your needs? But these things you can enjoy only as long as you live down here on the earth.

Does His love for you stop here? No, indeed, He has made a way for you to be saved, so that you may go to heaven, and have eternal life with Him. How has He made this way possible? It was by the death of His Son, and if you believe in Him as your Saviour, you may be sure of happiness, not only in this life, but for eternity.

Do you know that you are a sinner? Have you been to Jesus to ask Him for forgiveness of your sins?

Where will you spend eternity?

“Who is like unto Thee, O Lord?” Exodus 15:11,

“HE THAT IS OUR GOD, IS THE GOD OF OUR SALVATION.” Psa. 68:20.

ML 06/19/1938

A Little Messenger

A gentleman was passing through one of the busy streets of a city, when a little boy ran up to him, and touching his arm, offered him a tract.

He took it, and the boy went on giving tracts to one and another of the passers-by. Mr. M’s attention was arrested, so he followed, and stopping him asked, “My boy, why are you giving those tracts away?”

“O! sir, I am so happy, I cannot help it,” he answered.

“But what makes you so happy? I see many happy boys and girls who are not giving tracts away.”

The boy looked up with a smile, as he said, “I know I am saved. I know that the Lord Jesus died to put away my sins, and that makes me happy.”

“I am glad to hear that, but how do you know it?” Mr. M. questioned again.

“Sir! the Word of God says so.”

“Where does it say so? can you tell me any verse?” The boy paused thoughtfully, and then said,

“There are so many verses, I hardly know which to choose, but it says, ‘His that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life.’” John 3:36.

“It was through that verse I was converted, nineteen years ago,” said Mr. M.

Then Mr. M. told his young friend that he had been asked to go that evening to speak to some boys and girls about the Lord Jesus, and that he had been hesitating a little as to what he should do.

“What would you have me do?” he asked.

“O! go sir,” the boy answered.

“Why?”

“Jesus is coming, and it may be the last time,” was the answer.

“What shall I tell them? Can you give me a message for them?

“Yes. Tell the boys and girls to give their hearts to Jesus now.”

This was the message this little servant of the Lord Jesus Christ sent to the young people at that meeting, and it is the message we would give to you, readers. We do want you to be saved, and to be saved now, and then, like our little friend, you may seek to lead others to the Saviour.

“Those that seek me early shall find me.” Prov. 8:17.

ML 06/19/1938

"Pass it on"

Bertie and Bill had a pretty little yacht given them by their uncle, with which he meant them to enjoy themselves while they were on their holidays at the seaside.

“When you are done with it boys, pass it on to some other boy whose parents are unable to give him one,” said their uncle, and the boys remembered his word, and gave it to a poor boy, when their holidays were over.

That little incident of their boyhood was never forgotten by the two boys. After they had trusted the Lord Jesus as their Saviour, and received salvation through believing the Gospel (Rom. 1:16), they began to “pass it on” to their comrades and acquaintances, and the Lord blessed their testimony to the conversion of not a few. And that was only the beginning of a happy and useful life of service to the Lord.

They used their money and their talents in “passing on the glad tidings to many a weary soul, and many a needy town, making others happy, and spreading the message to those who had never really heard its joyful sound.

If you have received the great salvation which Jesus died to procure, and which the Gospel has brought to your own heart, “pass it on” to others.

Every saved person is a steward, who is entrusted with God’s glad tidings to make it known to others; and the best way is to begin in your own, home and among your companions and schoolmates, telling them the story of Jesus and His love.

“Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee.” Mark 5:19.

ML 06/19/1938

Two Sunday Afternoons

PART 1

Last week I told you about wee Benny, the boy who wished to be a horse, and I think you would like to hear a story today about his brother, Charley. Charley was a good deal older than Benny. I think he must have been twelve or thirteen years old, and he could take one of the ponies Benny loved so much out of the stable, and jumping on its back, trot over the wide prairies. He enjoyed this more than going to school, or, I am sorry to say, than going to Sunday school.

There was no regular Sunday school in the little town, near which they lived, but the kind lady, of whom I told you before, used to gather all the children she could, to her house, on Sunday afternoon, and teach them to sing sweet hymns, and then she would read to them out of the Bible. Charley’s mother liked her children to go, for she loved the Lord Jesus, and knew that He had saved her, and washed away her sin, in His own precious blood, so one bright summer afternoon she got them all ready, and away they went.

The lesson that afternoon was taken from the Gospel of Matthew, the first fourteen verses of chapter twenty-two. If you read it, you will find that it is a beautiful story of a king, who made a marriage for his son. One would suppose that everyone who got an invitation to such a wedding would be glad to come; but the story goes on to tell that not one person who was asked was found there.

“Was not that strange?” the lady asked her little class, and then she went on to tell them that it is just the same now, that people are so busy with their work, and with their pleasure, that they cannot find time to accept God’s invitation to come to Jesus, His Son, and to be made ready for that glorious Home. He has gone before to prepare. “If’ she added, “you believed that it was Satan, who tempts you to disobey God, and longs to destroy you, both body and soul, perhaps you would not be so ready to listen to him.”

I once read a story about a boy called Alexander. He was a disobedient boy, and one Sunday when his widowed mother told him to go to Sunday school he went off with two evil boys to spend the afternoon in boating. Ah, Alexander did not know that Satan was saying to him, “Alexander, come out and be drowned,” but so it proved, and that poor deluded boy never came home to his mother again.

“Children,” said the teacher, “beware of listening to Satan, when he comes with tempting promises to you, but open your ears and your hearts to the voice of the loving Saviour, who is longing to save and to bless you.”

All the children listened attentively, and they said to one another, as they walked home in the pleasant sunshine, that they would never be like Alexander, and listen to Satan.

How little we know of our own hearts. God, who sees right into them, says, they are “deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked,” but we do not know the quarter of the evil that is in them. We often think we can be good, if we wish, without any trouble; as these children did.

Next week I will tell you how our little friend Charley succeeded.

ML 06/19/1938

"Because He Likes Me"

Dear little Alice, just four years old, was asked:

“Do you know what Jesus has done for us?”

“He was put on the cross,” was her reply,

“Why was lie put there?”

“To make a way for us to go to heaven,” said the child.

“Do you love Him, dear?” was asked.

“Yes,” was her reply.

“Why do you love Him?”

“Because He likes me,” said little Alice.

What a happy little answer! For we, indeed, “love Him, because He first loved us.”

“Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that He loved us, and sent His Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” 1 John 4:10.

“Hereby perceive we the love, because He laid down His life for us.” 1 John 3:16.

ML 06/19/1938

A Pleasant Land

Psalms 106:24

We read in the Bible much of one certain country, of its cities, valleys, and mountains. It used to be called Canaan.

Not long ago some boys were asked if they thought Canaan were a real land, and if people still live there. One boy said he thought it was not a real land, another boy, older, said, “Yes, it is a real land, only it is called a different name now.” That was the right answer. The name now used is Palestine.

Look on a map or globe and you will find this narrow country in the west of Asia, along the Mediterranean Sea. It is only about 40 miles across to its east borders, the Jordan River and the Dead Sea. The north and south borders have sometimes changed, but it is about 200 miles in length.

Some places have different names than they once had, others have the same as in the early times. The walls and buildings of many cities have been thrown down in wars, then leveled off and re-built. The city we hear most of is Jerusalem, and it has been built over many times. Men dig in the old ruins, and often find dishes and articles of long ago.

Many races of people have lived in those cities, but it has been the special land of the Hebrew people. Now there are many Turks, Arab, and others there. And there are railroads, highways, and all modern inventions, yet in some ways many there live as people did so many years ago.

The same mountains, valleys, and streams are seen now, as in Old Testament times. It is very warm in the southern plains, cooler in the north and on the mountains.

All kinds of trees, grains, and plants grow in Palestine. We would all like to see the fruit trees: fig, date, orange, banana, apple, peach, pear, and others; besides olive and nut trees, and very many grapes. Many beautiful flowers grow wild.

It was to this land the Lord Jesus came, and lived all His life on earth. So it is often spoken of as The Holy Land. At that time it was divided into parts called Galilee, Samaria, and Judea.

If you can learn more of this land you will find it very interesting and you will enjoy the Bible stories more (Deut. 11:12).

ML 06/19/1938

"Come"

Is there a little soul that pants

To taste redeeming grace,

And longs to pour out all its wants

Before the Saviour’s face?

He is a kind and gracious Lord—

Love fills His gentle breast;

“Come unto Me,” is His own Word,

“And I will give you rest.”

ML 06/19/1938

The Singing of Birds

There are many of my little readers who are delighted by the singing of birds, even if it be but the chirp of the city sparrow.

I was once in a place where each morning there was such exquisite music of birds, as only you who live in the country can know.

God wants praise, not only from the birds, but from people, though how little is given to Him. It is only those who are washed from their sins in the blood of Christ, that can sing songs of praise to Him. This is one of the happy songs of praise:

“Unto Him who loved us, and washed us from our sins in His own blood, and hath made us kings and priests to God, even His Father; to Him he glory and dominion for ever and ever.” Rev.1:5,6.

There is also a New Song to be sung in heaven that never has been sung there before; even the angels listen to this song in adoration and wonder. And what is so wonderful about it, is that none but blood washed sinners can sing it:

“AND THEY SUNG A NEW SONG, SAYING, THOU ART WORTHY, ... FOR THOU WAST SLAIN, AND HAST REDEEMED US TO GOD BY THY BLOOD.” Revelation 5:9.

ML 06/26/1938

Two Sunday Afternoons

PART 2

The next Sunday dawned clear and bright, the sun shone in a sky without a cloud. As we read in Psalms 19, “The heavens declare the glory of God,” for who else could make that glorious sun to rise, day by day, giving light and heat to those upon the earth. When Charley awoke that bright morning, he longed to be out in the sunshine.

“It is a shame,” he said to himself, “for a boy to be shut up in the house a day like this. My Father is not using any of the ponies today, I will catch one„ and have a good long gallop,”

“AH, Charley, is not that Satan tempting you? But even as Eve was deceived by the serpent 6000 years ago, so little Charley was deceived that Sunday morning. He was not on the watch; he only thought of his own pleasure and cared nothing for disobeying his good mother or grieving his kind teacher.

Have you ever done the same, I wonder, thought only of self, and your own pleasures, and cared nothing about the wishes or even commands of those whom God has put over you? Remember this verse,

“Children obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.” Just think of it, “well pleasing”—a little child to be able to please the Lord well.

It took Charley a long time to catch one of those frisky little Indian ponies. Just as he thought he had his hand on one, it would toss up its head and kick up its heels, and away it would go like the wind. At last he caught one, and slipped the bridle he held in his hand over its head. No need of a saddle for him—he is off, as fast as his pony’s nimble little feet can carry him. He is soon long past the village, past the little wood to the right, past the pretty pond in the hollow where the wild ducks gather in autumn days. No fear of father or mother or teacher finding him here. Sunday school is dull, he says to himself, he will not go today, it cannot matter for once, and no one need know he is out riding.

Did you, dear boy, ever make that great mistake and think no one knows? Then, remember, that there is One who always knows. One to whom the darkness is even as the day, and remember, too, that He never forgets, that He has a book in which all your sins are written down, and by and by, when He sits upon His Great White Throne, those books will he brought out and small as well as great, will be judged out of them.

O, dear children, will you not come now, before it is too late and confessing your sins to God, ask Him to forgive you for the sake of the Lord Jesus Christ, who bore the punishment of sin upon the dreadful cross!

The afternoon was closing in before Charley thought of turning his pony’s head towards home. The boy and his steed were both tired, and perhaps neither were heeding the holes on the prairie, dug by the in mischievous gophers, or prairie dogs, as they are sometimes called. Be it as it may; the pony stumbled, and away went poor Charley over its head, falling with great force on the hard ground. At first he was conscious of nothing, but before long he came to himself, and tried to rise and catch the pony, who was quietly grazing nearby; but with a groan, the boy went back in an almost fainting condition, from the terrible pain he felt in his leg. Again and again he tried to get up, but each time fell back screaming with agony.

“It is of no use,” he moaned at last “my leg must be broken. He was right, it was broken and very badly, in more than one place.

For many hours he lay there faint and exhausted, but quite conscious, and as he lay there his mind went back to the last Sunday, and the story he had heard of Alexander, and as he thought it all over, he said to himself, “I am just like him, and Satan said to me, ‘Charley, come out and break your leg.’ Why was I not warned, why did I listen to him.”

But it was too late now, we can never undo what we have once done, we may weep bitter tears of repentance and we may know the rest of being forgiven, by the God we have sinned against, because the punishment of the sin has been borne by Another, even God’s own Son, but we cannot undo the deed, and we cannot get away from its consequences.

Charley was found by friends after several hours of great suffering, and carried home, to be upon a sick bed for many, many months. I am sure he repented of his sin, for he told his Sunday school teacher when she came to visit him, how often he had thought about Alexander, and how like his own conduct had been to his.

Yes, he repented of his sin, and that is the first step, but I do not know whether he ever got to the second step. What is that? you ask. Well, it is,

“Faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.” Charley knew himself to be a sinner, but I am not sure, though I very much hope, that he learned as he lay and suffered for so long, that there is forgiveness of sin, because Jesus has been punished instead of the sinner.

Have you, my dear boys, for whom have especially written these stories, taken either or both of these steps?

“With the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” Rom. 10:10.

None can to glory go,

Or dwell with God above,

Save they who Jesus know,

And taste a Saviour’s love;

The holy words of truth declare

No other grounds of entrance there.

ML 06/26/1938

"God Is Love"

O you think your God will love me?” was the question of a Hindu woman of a Christian lady. She had become possessed of a small portion of God’s Word. The words “God is love” were all she knew. Would this God love her?

What joy it is to speak to such, and to present the truth of God’s love to the world —that all have been embraced in His thoughts of blessing—that not one need exclude himself or herself from the sunshine. His love is full and free, and the salvation. He has provided is for all.

“In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him.” 1 John 4:9.

ML 06/26/1938

"If Ye Love Me, Keep My Commandments"

Jessie, do you love the Lord Jesus?” a friend of mine asked a very little girl one day.

“O, yes!” was the quick, glad answer.

“How do you know, Jessie?”

“Because I feel it in my heart.”

“Do you think He knows you love Him?”

“Yes, I am sure He does.”

“How does the Lord know, Jessie?”

“He can see right into my heart.”

“But I cannot see into your heart. How am I to know that you love Jesus?”

Jessie slipped a little text card into her friend’s hand, and pointed to the verse on it. It was this,

“If ye love Me, keep My commandments.” John 14:15.

And I think Jessie was right, for obedience to Christ is the best proof of our love to Him.

ML 06/26/1938

The Judges of Israel

God had said that the men of Israel should drive out the wicked nations in Canaan, and destroy their images (Deut. 7:22-26.)

But some of Israel did not obey Him, and, instead, worshiped the images too, and made friends with their heathen neighbors, following their evil ways.

They had no leader like Joshua or Moses. But they had God’s words written down, if they had only obeyed them.

At last the people of Israel became so wrong that God allowed a heathen king to come from another country and force them under his rule. This was very sad, and they served him eight years, before they prayed to God for help. Then God gave a brave man, named Othniel, the wisdom to deliver them; from the king ( Judges 3:5-11).

And Othniel was the first Judge of Israel and they had peace while he lived.

Afterward God gave other judges. One Judge, named Shamgar, saved Israel from the enemy by using a queer weapon, a stick with a sharp, prong in it, made for driving oxen (Judges 3:31).

One Judge was a woman, Deborah, who believed God would save Israel, and went with the army to a great battle. After that there was no trouble for forty years.

But the people of Israel again worshiped idols and did many evil ways, so God let nations front different parts come to trouble them. Those people camped in great numbers in the land, and took the herds and grain of Israel for themselves.

They destroyed so much that there was not enough food left for Israel, and some even had to hide in dens and caves in the mountains for fear of being hurt.

This great trouble caused the people of Israel to pray to God for help, and He gave them another judge, named Gideon, them. The stories about this Judge very interesting and we will learn of him another time, the Lord willing (Judges 2:16-19 and Judges 6:1-10).

ML 06/26/1938

Only, What?

Only a book for a child to read,

But what is the theme of its story?

Telleth it aught of a Saviour’s love?

Of a Risen Man in the glory?

Only a song for a child to sing,

But what is the note it is sounding?

Is it of Him whose wonderful love

Is ever, and all-abounding?

Remember the charge concerning that child,

That to you in His Word is given;

“Suffer the children to come onto Me;

For of such is the kingdom of heaven.”

ML 06/26/1938

Answers to Bible Questions for May

“The Children’s Class”

1.“And he went down,” etc. Luke 2:51.

2.“Blessed are those,” etc. 12:37.

3.“That thou mightest,” etc. 1:4.

4.“Then Jesus answering,” etc. 7:22.

5.“And it came to pass,” etc.6:12.

6.“Saving, The Son of man,” etc. 9:22.

7.“And there was delivered,” etc. 4:17.

Bible Questions for July

“The Children’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in. John, chapters 1-10

1.Write in full the verse containing the words, “‘The scripture cannot he broken.”

2.Write in full the verse containing the words, “He knew what was in man.”

3.Write in full the verse containing the words, “The honor that cometh from God only.”

4.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Except it be given him from heaven.”

5.Write in full the verse containing the words, “He shall know of the doctrine.”

6. Write in full the verse containing the words, “Abraham rejoiced to see to my day.”

7. What did John the Baptist answer when the Jews asked him “What sayest thou of, thyself”?

Answers to Bible Questions for May

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

1.Looking back. Luke 9:62.

2.By omitting “in all thy ways.” Luke 4:10; Ps. 91:11.

3.“Son of God.” Luke 7:35.

4.The man who made no provision for his soul. Luke 12:20-21.

5.In heaven. Luke 10:20.

6. By believing. Luke 8:12.

7. John the Baptist. Luke 7:27; Mal. 3:31.

Bible Questions for July

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

The Answers are to be found in John 1-10

1. What is the secret of knowing whether or not Christ’s doctrine is true?

2.How may we “live forever”?

3.Where did Jesus say, “I am the Son of God?”

4.Who said, “This is the Son of God?”

5.What sign did Jesus promise the unbelieving, Jews?

6. Was Jesus in heaven when He was here on earth?

7. To whom did Jesus declare plainly that He was the Christ?

ML 06/03/1938

Bill's Letter

Bill was spending his holidays in a pretty glen. Before he left home, an arrangement was made with a school-mate that they should exchange letters every week, telling each other all the news of fishing, and other matters that boys like to know about. The first and second letters passed with nothing striking in them. Bill and his sister Bessie stood by the roadside, awaiting the traveling postman on a Monday morning, eagerly expecting their letters from home.

“One for me,” shouted Bill, as he took the packet from the postman’s hand, “and a jolly big one it is, lots of news from Tom I guess.”

Bill burst open the envelope, and sat down on the grass to read his companion’s letter, while Bessie quietly read one from her mother. When Tom had finished reading, he handed part of Tom’s letter to Bessie, saying in a bewildered tone,

“That beats all. Tom Gray converted! That’s my last companion gone now.”

Yes, Tom had been saved, and turned to the Lord, and his first work for his new Master, was to write and tell his companion what God had done for his soul, closing with an earliest appeal to Bill to turn to God.

For several days Bill went about very unhappy. Tom’s letter had upset him, until unable to endure it any longer, he started by an early train on Saturday to see his companion. I cannot tell you all that passed between them but I know that Tom led him to Jesus that day.

Bill returned to the glen, singing the glad new song of one who knows his sins forgiven, and when his holidays were over, he joined his companion at school, where the two boys testified for Christ, and let their light shine for many days.

There is nothing half so grand as being saved in early days. Reader, are you? There are hundreds of schoolboys and schoolgirls who are saved, and on the way to heaven. I meet with some of them every day, and they are the truly happy ones.

“Blessed are all they that put their trust in Him.’ Psa. 2:12.

“Whosoever believeth on Him shall not be ashamed” Rom. 9:33.

ML 07/03/1938

Saved in the Hay Field

At a gathering of Christians on Speyside, a farmer’s lad told the story of his conversion as follows:

“We were working at the hay. I hail been attending meetings held by an evangelist in the town for two weeks, and was very troubled about my soul. Three at our farm were saved, and they sang while at work all day. I was miserable. At dinner-time I sat alone, and I suppose the others saw what was wrong with me. One who had been my companion in sin came across to where I sat, and said:

‘Jamie, you will never be happy till you are saved. You should just take Jesus, and be like the rest of us.’

‘How did you take Him?’ I asked, for the ‘taking’ was the difficulty with me, I just said:

“If Jesus saves sinners, I am a sinner, and He’ll save me.” I took Him by believing He died for me, just for myself, as if there had been no other.’ I saw then what was meant by ‘taking’ Jesus. And without saying anything to anyone, I took Him that afternoon, and I knew I was saved. I could not keep it to myself. I told Jamie as we went home, and we rejoiced together. Many happy days we have been together since then in the service of the Lord, and we have seen others take Jesus as their own Saviour.”

“Him that cometh to Me, I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

“He that believeth on the Son, hath everlasting life.” John 3:36.

ML 07/03/1938

The Saviour's Love

The Saviour is gracious,

His love is a well;

His love is most precious,—

It’s worth, who can tell?

He loved us so truly,

He came from the sky,

That He, the Most Holy,

For sinners might die.

From heaven, His dwelling,

That bright, happy place,

He sweetly is telling

Us all of His grace.

The love of a mother

And father is great;

The love of a brother

And sister so sweet.

Yet, who but the Saviour

For us would have died,

That we, blest forever,

With Him might abide?

In mercy delighting

He speaks from above,

Dear children inviting,

To trust hi His love.

ML 07/03/1938

The Shepherd's Children

The boy and girl who are shepherding the sheep and lamb in our picture, appear to be in deep thought. We trust their hearts are occupied with the Good Shepherd who gave His life for the sheep. We know, dear children, the Good Shepherd is ever mindful of His sheep and lambs down here, and has provided good food for them.

Are you among the sheep and lambs of His flock? and are you feeding upon His Word? His Word is the food God has so graciously given us. And, dear little ones, are you storing it up in your hearts?

“Thy Word have I hid in mine heart.” Psa. 119:11.

Only those who have taken the Lord Jesus as their Saviour, and have come under the shelter of the blood, knowing their sins are all washed away, can say,

“I WILL NOT FORGET THY WORD.” Psa. 119:16.

ML 07/03/1938

The Visit of an Angel

Judges 6:11-32

A man of Israel, named Gideon, was threshing out grain at his father’s place. There were no machines for separating grain as now, and small amounts were often done by beating the dry heads of the grain with a stick called a flail. But such work was usually done in an open place where the wind would carry off the chaff, but Gideon was working among trees and vines, to keep the grain hid from the enemies, who were camped not far away, and who watched to take any grain or food they could from the people of Israel.

While Gideon was working, all Angel of tile Lord came and sat under a tree, and spoke to him saying, “‘The Lord is with thee, thou mighty man of valor.” Which meant that Gideon was strong and brave.

Gideon asked why the Lord let the enemies trouble them so greatly, for he had heard the wonders God had done for them in years before, which shows Gideon believed in God’s power.

Then the Angel of God told him that he should go and save Israel. Gideon did not think himself a great enough person to lead Israel. But he was told that the Lord would help him. Gideon wanted to serve food to the Angel, and went for meat and bread, which the Angel told hire hi put on a rock. Then the Angel touched it with His staff and fire came out of the rock and it was burned as a sacrifice to God. Then the Angel of God disappeared. This made Gideon afraid, but God spoke to him to “Fear not.”

On this same farm, or land, of Gideon’s father there was an altar to an idol, called Baal, with a grove of trees around it, and his family and others of Israel came there to worship. “Although they knew the great care God had given them, they were bowing to idols, the same as their heathen neighbors which was foolish and dishonest, for they knew the idols could help no one.

That same night the Lord. told Gideon to throw down the idol-altar and cut down the trees (which they seem to have worshiped and which were also to hide their sin).

Gideon obeyed God: taking ten servants to help, he broke clown the altar and cut off the trees.

In the morning the men who had worshiped the idol, saw their altar broken and the trees cut. They were very angry, but Gideon’s father told them to let the idol “plead”, or save itself. So he was not sorry the altar was spoiled.

After the idols were destroyed, then the Lord told Gideon how to deliver Israel from the enemy. But God could not use Gideon to help as long as idols were worshiped at his own home (Read Psa. 115:3-10).

ML 07/03/1938

Sheep

We all love to watch a flock of sheep quietly feeding on the hillside, and the little lambs skipping about, without any thought of where they are to get their food.

Their shepherd takes them from one place to another, and he finds out the best pastures for them.

The Lord Jesus has a flock of sheep and lambs, and He is their Shepherd,

“The Lord is my Shepherd; shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures; He leadeth me beside the still waters.” Psalms 23:1,2.

Where are these green pastures and still waters to be found for us? They are, dear children, in His blessed Word.

If we read and meditate on God’s Word, and art according to it, a shall be following Him.

“MY SHEEP HEAR MY VOICE, AND I KNOW THEM, AND THEY FOLLOW ME.” John 10:27.

Are you one of His sheep, dear reader? If you believe on Him, (this is hearing His voice), you are one of His sheep.

If any of you have not yet come to Jesus, listen now to His loving call, and you will then be one of His lambs, whom He will love and care for, until He takes you to be with Himself forever.

ML 07/10/1938

The Far Seeing Eye

As the astronomer, Mitchell, was one day observing the setting sun through a large telescope, and gradually lowering the instrument to keep in view the great body of light slowly sinking in the western sky, there came within his line of vision the top of a distant hill, upon which grew a number of apple trees. In one of these trees were two boys, apparently stealing the apples. One was getting the fruit, while the other appeared to be keeping watch, to make sure that they were not seen in their guilty act; both, no doubt, hoping to be undiscovered. But there sat Professor Mitchell, seven miles away, with the great eye of his telescope directed fully upon them, and perceiving their every movement as clearly as if he were on the hill-top.

The above related incident puts us in mind of how all are under the continual observation of God; according to the Scriptures.

“All things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to do.” Hebrews 4:14. And again,

“The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good.” Proverbs 15:3.

It has been remarked by another, that, for the Christian, it should be a pleasing reflection that the eye of his. God is at all times upon him. The remembrance of the fact should be a check upon sin, and an encouragement to holiness. And besides, as we read,

“The eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward Him.” 2 Chron. 16:9.

ML 07/10/1938

"Go and Do Thou Likewise"

Who is my neighbor?” asked a poor boy of his Sunday school teacher. Then he read Luke 10:27:

“Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart,....and thy neighbor as thyself:”

“What do you find so hard in this verse?” asked the teacher.

“When I think of the goodness of God, and how He cares for us every moment of our lives; gives us food and clothing, and above all, gave His only begotten Son to die for us, then it seems to me we are obliged to love Him. But the second part of the verse I do not understand, ‘Thou shalt lave thy neighbor as thyself,’” said the boy.

“And why not?”

“My neighbors next door are very bad people: they drink and quarrel, and the man swears, and they even send their children out to beg. I can’t love these people, even if I want to, and I don’t want to have anything to do with them.”

“You think this verse compels you to be intimate with these people, when other passages of God’s Ward tell us to keep away from bad company?” questioned the teacher. “Can you recall a verse which tells us to avoid such people?” And William repeated these two:

“Evil communications corrupt good manners.” 1 Cor. 15:33.

“Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil.” Proverbs 4:14.

“That is correct, and Scripture never contradicts itself. We are never to make companions of those who are going on in a wicked course.”

They read the story of the good Samaritan, closing with words,

“Go, and do thou likewise.”

“Does not this tell to whom you should show the kindness of a neighbor?” asked the teacher.

“It is anyone to whom I can show kindness and love,” replied the boy.

“Yes. These wicked people of whom you spoke are not your neighbors because they live next door to you; but if you could in any way show them love and kindness, you would be showing in a small measure the love the Lord Jesus has shown you when He loved you and died for you. He is the only One who has fully loved His neighbor as Himself, but you would be going directly against the Word of God if you sought their company, and amused yourself with them. If, on the other hand, you saw them in misery and sickness, and went to visit them, telling them of Jesus and His love, helping them in any way you could, doing as you would be done by if in the same position yourself, you would be proving by your actions that you love your neighbor.”

William thought because his parents were poor, and he had nothing to give it would be impossible to carry out this word. His teacher urged him not to hide his one talent and continued,

“You can treat all with whom you come in contact in a kind, amiable way; and since you know the Lord, you can pray for those in need. Remember, it is the love of God that is the motive: just as His love flows into your heart, you will be able to show love to your neighbor. Our neighbor is anyone whom we can serve in any way. No matter how small the service, if it is done in faith and love, it will rejoice the heart of God. You can lead others to Christ. In His sight it will be far more than giving great gifts to the poor.”

Some years later when William had a good position in a commercial house and was going to night school, he was seen frequently to take his Bible and leave too early for his night classes. One evening his father followed him and found him in the room of a very poor afflicted boy who was dying.

William had heard of the sufferings of this boy, and of his fear of death. Here was an opportunity to show the great love the Lord Jesus had shown to him when He gave Himself for him. William hastened to the dying boy with the water of life, and the thirsty soul of the boy drank in the words of eternal life on hearing them the first time. He was drawn by faith to that One who says,

“Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

“He that believeth in Me though he were dead, yet shall he live.” John 11:25.

Thus William carried out what he had learned. He made use of the talent God had given him in his feeble way.

Dear readers, if you know Jesus as your Saviour, go and do likewise. If you have not yet been washed in the blood of Christ, you can know nothing of what it is to love your neighbor in this way. Before you can lead others to Him, the word to you is first,

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31.

ML 07/10/1938

How Habits Grow

When I was a little boy,” said an old gentleman, “somebody gave me a cucumber in a bottle. The neck of the bottle was small, and the cucumber was so large that it wasn’t possible for it to pass through, and I wondered how it got there. But out in the garden, one day, I came upon a bottle slipped over a little green fellow that was still on the vines, and then I understood. The cucumber had grown in the bottle.

I often see men with habits that I wonder any strong, sensible man could form, and then I think that most likely they grew into them when they were young, and cannot slip out of them now; they are like the cucumber. Beware of such habits, boys!”

“Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? By taking heed thereto according to Thy Word.”

“Blessed is every one that feareth the Lord; that walketh in His ways.” Psalm 128:1.

ML 07/10/1938

Where the Dew Fell and How an Army Was Chosen

Judges 6:33-40

God had told Gideon he should save Israel from the enemy, who had come into their land. Gideon had blown the trumpets to call the men nearby and had sent messengers to those farther away to come and help.

Gideon believed God was able to do great wonders, yet he did not feel sure he was the man to be the leader. So he asked God to prove this to him: he said he would put out some fleece (wool cut from sheep), and if dew fell on the fleece and not on the ground around it, he would know he was the one to lead the army.

In that land very heavy dew falls on summer nights: Gideon put out the fleece and early the next morning he went to the place: all around the fleece it was dry, but the fleece was so wet from dew that he wrung the water from it, enough to fill a bowl.

Yet Gideon was not really sure that he should lead the Italy. And he asked the Lord to give him a second proof: this time he asked that dew should not fall on the fleece, only on the ground around it. In the morning the fleece was dry, but all around it there was dew.

Chapter 7:1-8. After that Gideon trusted God, and had courage to prepare for the battle. Many men of Israel came to go with him.

There was a rule for Israel that, if any men who gathered for war were afraid, they should be allowed to go home (Deut. 20:8), And Gideon told the men than those who feared need not go with and ever so many left for their homes.

Still there were 10,000 men with Gideon. But the Lord said that was toc many, because they would think he battle won by their own number, instead of by His power.

So He told Gideon to watch the men as they drank water (probably from a stream nearby): those who got down on their knees to drink as much as they liked, were not to be taken to fight; only those who drank more quickly, by just dipping in their hands and lapping what water was held, were to be taken.

Only 300 men drank the quicker way, showing they were eager to start for the battle. But we later learn how God gave Gideon and those few inert a great victory.

How many men of Gideon’s army were afraid and went home? (vs. 3).

ML 07/10/1938

Come and Learn

What though I’m but a child,

And little can discern;

Christ is a Teacher, meek and mild,

And bids me come and learn.

When Jesus, dwelt below,

The infants He caressed,

He prayed for them, and blest them, too,

And surely they were blest.

Then let me not delay

To learn the road to Heaven,

For Jesus tells me He’s the way,

And grace is freely given.

ML 07/10/1938

Afraid

A little city girl and her mother went to the sea shore during the summer to get the refreshing breeze and rest.

Everything was new to the little girl, and consequently she was much pleased with the new surroundings.

One day, another little girl, who lived in the place, was there with a little calf that evidently had become fully acquainted with her, and did not run away from her, as a calf generally does, so she invited the little city girl to come and see the calf and pet it, She certainly would not go without her mother, nor would she let loose of her mother’s dress, but she did venture to pet the calf, but both calf and she were afraid of each other.

Why is it, do you think, that there is so much fear with the young, both of man and beast? It is all on account of sin being in the world, and Satan being the prince of it (John 12:31), and the power of the air (Eph. 2:2).

There is a time coming when Satan shall be bound for a thousand years, and the Lord Jesus will reign then, and all shall be at peace (Isa. 11:6-9).

Peace and quietness, gentleness and kindness may be shown now, and those who know the Lord Jesus as their Saviour, should show these characters to one another and to the animals as well. This is a wise way to act, and the results, are always good.

“THIS IS MY COMMANDMENT, THAT YE LOVE ONE ANOTHER, AS I HAVE LOVED YOU.” John 15:12.

ML 07/17/1938

No Place to Pray

I’ve no place to pray,” said a little girl in a pitiful voice one day, as her teacher was talking to her about prayer. She lived in a lodging-house, in three little rooms, with her father, mother and six brothers and sisters. There wasn’t much chance for her to get away alone, surely.

But her teacher told her she could sometimes slip away into one of the little bedrooms, and shut the door. There she could be alone with God, and the rest of the family wouldn’t miss her for a few minutes. Minnie promised to try it. Most everybody can find a lone corner for prayer if they want to.

I once heard of a man who worked in a large machine shop, who, after eating his lunch at noon, used to go inside an old boiler to pray. One of his companions found it out, and asked if he might come, too. Then others came, and after a while they had quite a little prayer-meeting in the old boiler, and souls were saved there.

I knew a man who lived in a small house, and always went out in the barn to pray. I also knew a young girl who couldn’t get a chance for secret prayer till all the day’s work of a large family was done, and then she had to go down into the cellar to be alone. But what sweet seasons of prayer she had down there in the dark!

We read in Acts 10:9 that Peter, when in Joppa “went up upon the housetop to pray about the sixth hour.”

God is everywhere. If we cannot be alone, we can pray to Him in our hearts.

He can hear even a thought-prayer.

“The eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and His ears are open unto their prayers.” 1 Peter’s 3:12.

ML 07/17/1938

Bob's Thorn

Bob had no love for school. He greatly preferred roving in the woods, and even working in the fields, rather than books and lessons. His father was generally away all day, and this gave him good opportunity of playing truant.

It came to the school teacher’s ears that Bob had been absent from school for a whole week without his parents’ knowledge, and he determined to capture the truant, if possible; but that was not so easy, as Bob was very swift on foot, and knew where to hide himself.

Early in the morning, four school-boys were set to watch Bob’s movements. He saw that he was watched, and made a rush toward the woods; but, poor fellow, barefooted as he nearly always was, he forgot how thick the thorns were, and how difficult it would be to flee from his pursuers there.

Before he had gone many paces, a great thorn stuck fast in his foot, making it bleed badly. He pulled it out as best he could, and made for the road, thinking he would find a hiding-place in some of the houses by the way-side. So on he ran, limping as he went, and soon got a good way along in front of the boys.

He got into a house, and thought he would he quite safe there, as they would never think of going inside to look for him. So he seated himself, and, lifting his foot on his knee, he began to search for thorns in his foot. But alas for Bob’s secret hiding-place. The bleeding wound in his foot had left its mark all along the road, so that the boys had no difficulty in tracing him. He was caught, and of course punished for his evil-doing.

This story of school-days reminds me of a text in God’s Book, which I wish every boy and girl to remember. It is this,

“Be sure your sin will find you out.” Numbers 32:23. You cannot hide it or yourself from God. Justice and judgment will find you out, if you remain unsaved.

The precious Blood of Christ trusted in, alone can cleanse your sins away, and make you fit to appear in peace before God.

“It is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul.” Lev. 17:11.

“Redeemed... with the precious blood of Christ.” 1 Peter 1:18,19.

ML 07/17/1938

A Little Maid

Now Naaman, captain of the host of the king of Syria, was a great man with his master, and honorable, because by him the Lord had given deliverance unto Syria: he was also a mighty man in valor, but he was a leper.

And the Syrians had gone out by companies, and had brought away captive out of the land of Israel a little maid; and she waited on Naaman’s wife.

And she said unto her mistress, “Would God my lord were with the prophet that is in Samaria! for he would recover him of his leprosy.”

Then went he down, and dipped himself seven times in Jordan, according to the saying of the man of God: and his flesh came again like unto the flesh of a little child, and he was clean.” 2 Kings 5:1,2,3 and 14.

A dear little Israelite maiden,

A captive was taken one day,

And far from her country and people

To Syria was led away.

No bitter resentment she harbored,

That this was her portion in life,

But cheerfully took up her duties,

And waited on Naaman’s wife.

Now Naaman, who was her master,

Though mighty in valor was he,

Exceeding in greatness and honor,

Was stricken with dread leprosy.

But this little Israelite maiden

With confidence trusted her Lord,

She believed in the true God of Israel,

Whose love had become her reward.

She knew he could succor poor Naaman,

She knew He had power to heal,

So to Naaman’s wife she went boldly

And fervently made an appeal.

Just a few earnest words that she offered,

But they comforted Naaman’s soul,

And he went to the prophet in Israel,

Where he was restored and made whole.

God honored the plea of this maiden,

So simple, so sweet, and sincere,

And He blessed her few words fitly spoken

In faith, without doubting or fear.

So today, if you trust in the Saviour

Who died upon Calvary’s tree;

If you choose to tell others of Jesus,

His blessing will be upon thee.

Wherever He sees best to place you,

Little boy, little girl, little maid,

Just a few simple words for your Saviour

He will honor, so be not afraid.

For the faith of a child is most precious

To the Father in heaven above,

And by giving His message to others

May help them to trust in His love.

ML 07/17/1938

Only Trust

One day I saw a little girl of twelve years lying in one of the beds of a hospital, and I asked her, “Do you love the Lord Jesus?”

“No,” she said, “but I want to very much.”

“Why?” I inquired, and her reply was— Because I am a sinner. I have tried to be good, but I do want to come to Him, and to love Him.”

“Well; dear,” I said, “think for a few moments of these two verses: ‘God hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all’ (Isa. 53:6), and, ‘His own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree’ (1 Peter 2:24). Now, if God laid your sins on the Lord Jesus, and He bore them, where are they?”

“Well,” she said slowly, “if God put them on Jesus, and He bore them, I can’t bear them too.”

“No, dear,” I answered, “but let us look at it like this: God hated sin. He could not look upon it, and must punish it, but the Lord Jesus loved little Emily, and bore her sins and her punishment instead of her, upon the cross.”

She looked up so brightly, and said, “Is that what trust, or believe means? Then I do trust, and will give Him my heart now, and try to be good.”

“But you must leave off trying to be good, and only believe or trust the Lord, and He will give you power to be good, after you have truly trusted Him,” She waited a moment before speaking, and then said, is that really all? I do trust Him now.”

I think little Emily, then and there, really put her trust in the Lord Jesus, her Saviour. To you, dear children, who feel your need of a Saviour, I would say, come to Him, as Emily did, in all your sins, for He will save you. Take your place before God as a sinner, and ask him to show you the Lord Jesus on the cross bearing our sins.

“He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life.” John 3:36

The Lord Jesus shed His precious blood for sinners, and all who put their trust in Him, have their sills washed away, and are made whiter than snow.

“Come now, and let us reason together, saith the Lord: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” Isaiah 1:18.

ML 07/17/1938

A Dream of a Barley Cake

Judges 7:9-16

A great number of strong, rough men, many thousands, were camped along a valley in Israel’s land. They were called the host of Midian, and were the enemies who had been stealing the food of Israel. They had ever so many camels, which probably had carried them to that land with their tents and burdens.

Gideon and the three hundred men of Israel were on the hills above them, perhaps hidden by trees or the darkness of the night. They were ready to go against the enemy although it would seem useless for so few to try to fight so many, only that God had told Gideon they should go.

But first, the Lord told Gideon if he would go down into the valley he would hear what would give him new courage.

So Gideon, with a servant, went quietly down the hill, and came near the edge of the camp. It was night and no one saw or heard them, for no doubt most of the men were asleep. But Gideon overheard two men talking. These probably were guards.

One man said he had dreamed that a cake of barley bread tumbled into their camp and overturned a tent.

Such people as these used to cook their bread as we do what We call pancakes. Of course one of such cakes could not turn over a tent. But there was something to happen to this big camp as quickly as what the man had dreamed about the cake and the tent.

And the other man seemed to know what would happen. He said the dream meant that the sword of Gideon would come; that God was to deliver the host of Midian to him.

When Gideon heard what the two men said, he knew God had sent fear to the enemy, and he thanked God and hurried back to his men on the hill, and told them how they should do. And we shall find the battle was not won by the strong enemy, but by the men of Israel who believed in God.

ML 07/17/1938

Sheep

We all love to watch a flock of sheep quietly feeding on the hillside, and the little lambs skipping about, without any thought of where they are to get their food.

Their shepherd takes them from one place to another, and he finds out the best pastures for them.

The Lord Jesus has a flock of sheep and lambs, and He is their Shepherd.

Are you one of his flock? And is He your Shepherd? Can you say, with the Psalmist,

“The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters?” Psalms 23:1,2.

Where are these green pastures and still waters to be found for us? They are, dear children, in His blessed Word.

If any of you have not yet come to Jesus, listen now to His loving call, and you will then be one of His lambs, whom He will love and care for until He takes you to be with Himself forever.

“HE SHALL FEED HIS FLOCK LIKE A SHEPHERD HE SHALL GATHER THE LAMBS WITH HIS ARM, AND CARRY THEM IN HIS BOSOM.” Isaiah 40:11.

ML 07/24/1938

A Noble Girl

A little girl living in a pretty cottage on the hillside heard a missionary tell how a child, by saving her pennies, had sent a Bible to a Foreign country, which had been the means of leading a young girl to Christ.

Emma Evans had no spare pennies, but she had two hens, and it occurred to her, that by hatching their eggs and selling the chicks, she might be able to buy a Bible and send it to some Indian child, to teach her the way of salvation.

Emma herself knew the Saviour and could truthfully say,

“Jesus is mine.”

She fed her hens well, and reared her chicks for God, and so abundantly did He bless her work that she was soon able to send twelve Bibles to the Lord’s servants in India to be given to orphan girls under their care. Followed by prayer, God blessed them, and Emma had the joy of hearing that some of these Indian girls had been saved through reading the Bibles she sent to them.

It is truly wonderful what a saved child can do for the Lord, and how God blesses the simplest heart-service done for Him. But it needs to be remembered that salvation must come before such service. You need to accept the Lord Jesus Christ as your Saviour before you can be of any use to God in His work. Saved by grace, then serve Him.

Thus it was with Emma, she had taken Christ as her own personal Saviour, then out of love to Him, she read His Word, and sent it to others, and her service was blessed to many a weary soul.

If you would be blessed, and made a blessing to others, make your own choice first, receive the Lord Jesus as your own Saviour, and confess Him as your Lord.

“If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” Romans 10:9.

Have you thus believed on Him, and confessed Him as your Saviour?

“I do believe, I will believe

That Jesus died for me,

That on the cross He shed His blood,

From sin to set me free.”

ML 07/24/1938

Wonderful Things About the Bible

The most wonderful book the world has ever seen, or will see, is the Book of God—the Bible.

It is the oldest book. The five books written by Moses, were written at least a thousand years before the first historian, Herodotus by name, wrote his first book; and seven hundred years before Rome was built.

It is the truest book. Other books may err: the Bible cannot; simply because its Author is the eternal God—the God who cannot lie. All that He says is truth.

It is the book most widely circulated in the world. It is estimated that there are over 200,000,000 Bibles, in 350 languages, in existence at the present time. Placed side by side, they would form an area of 700 acres. Placed end to end, they would make a line 17,000 miles long.

It is the most hated book in the world. Infidels, scoffers, scientists, critics—all oppose, and seek to deny or destroy the Bible. It has been burnt, imprisoned, exiled and prohibited; yet it exists, and is more read today than ever.

It is the best loved book. Men have laid down their lives for it; purpled the heather on Scotland’s hills with their blood; died in Italy’s valleys, in Spain’s inquisitions, in Rome’s prisons; rather than give it up. The rack, the gallows and the stake have each failed to make the Lord’s saved ones give up, deny, or cease to love the Bible.

God is its Author, Christ its Theme, the Spirit its Teacher, the heart its home, the world its field. It is to be reverenced, read, believed, obeyed, treasured in the heart, practiced in the life. Do you read, Believe, and love the Word of God? Have you received Christ? Can you say truly,

“Holy Bible, Book Divine,

Precious Treasure, thou art mine?”

ML 07/24/1938

More Than Conqueror Through Christ

Bobbie was not strong. He had never been able to take long walks or climb trees like most of the boys he knew. A very painful disease in one of his hips had made the poor little fellow so lame that he was obliged to walk on crutches.

Still Bobbie was able to get to Sunday school, and he dearly loved to listen to the faithful, earnest words of his teacher. The seed thus sown soon bore fruit, and he confessed his faith in the Lord Jesus as his own trusted Saviour.

Soon after Bobbie’s conversion, he and his brothers were playing with a large dog, when, though only meaning it for play, it jumped upon our little friend with such force that he fell to the ground.

A cry of pain brought his mother to his side. Lifting him gently in her arms, she laid him on his bed. Then finding that he seemed badly hurt, she sent for the doctor, who said Bobbie’s leg was broken in two places, and must be set at once. Setting the bone hurt the little boy very much, but he bore the pain without murmur. Once when the kind doctor, who saw by his face how much he suffered, said, “You may say ‘O’ if you want to, little man.”

“Doctor, may I sing?” Bobbie asked. And when the Doctor said, “Yes,” Bobbie began to sing in a low, sweet voice:

“This is my story, this is my song,

Praising my Saviour all the day long.”

He kept on singing till the broken limb was set and bandaged. So there was praise which was unchecked by pain, and a song in the presence of suffering, and thus dear Bobbie let his light shine brightly for the Lord Jesus.

“Jesus bids us shine,

Upon all around;

Many kinds of darkness,

In the world abound.

Sin and want and sorrow,—

So we must shine,

You in your small corner,

And I in mine.”

“Our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:17,18.

ML 07/24/1938

"Wee Samie"

Samuel, or as the children called him, “Wee Samie,” was our youngest scholar. He must have been only about three years old, when he first came to our Infant Class. Young as he was, he always had his Memory Text, and when the story of redeeming love was being told, there was no more attentive listener than Samie. I cannot doubt but at the age of four, his heart was truly opened to receive Christ as his personal Saviour. He confessed Him, and told his mother when he reached home that afternoon, that Jesus had saved him. From that day, Samie was a Christian: a true follower of Christ, and his ways and spirit clearly showed that Christ had won his heart.

It was truly wonderful to see the deep interest he manifested in the things of God, and how he longed and prayed for the conversion of his brothers and sisters, who were still unsaved.

When Samie was six years old, he went to school, and there he witnessed for Christ among his schoolmates. School, with its temptations and companionship, is a sere test to many young believers, and some get “swamped” in their testimony for the Lord, and lose their brightness. But Samie went on following the Lord, and testifying for Him. He now tells the story of redeeming love, and seeks to lead little boys to that dear Saviour, who called him early to know and believe His love.

“Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:1.

ML 07/24/1938

A Great Victory

Judges 7:16-24

Gideon and the three hundred men of Israel were ready to go against the thousands of fierce men of Midian, camping in the valley of Jezreel.

God had given wisdom how they should do: Gideon divided the men into three companies; each man had a trumpet in one hand and a lighted lamp, or torch, hidden in a pitcher, in the other hand. They were told to go down to the edge of the enemy’s camp and stand around it, and when. Gideon blew his trumpet and showed his light, every man was to do the same.

They went quietly down the hills. It was night, and we can imagine that great crowd of men asleep, close together in their blankets on the ground, some, or perhaps all, in tents. New guards had just taken their places, at what is called, the “middle watch”, thought to have been near midnight. They did not see or hear the men of Israel.

Suddenly, Gideon and the men with him blew their trumpets, and quickly broke their pitchers to let their lights show. So almost at once the three hundred lights shone around the dark camp, and the men of Israel shouted, “The sword of the Lord and of Gideon.”

The noise of the trumpets awakened the men of Midian. Seeing all the lights and hearing the shouts around them, they, no doubt, supposed a big army had come. They were so frightened they fought and killed one another; while those who lived fled toward their own country.

Gideon and his men followed after; later, other men of Israel helped them, and the great enemy was driven from Israel’s land.

Gideon and his men won this great victory because they believed God and had done as He had shown them. Gideon is named with others who had faith in God (Heb. 11:32).

Surely this story was written to teach us, for as that big enemy had been robbing Israel of their food, so there are those now who would keep us from enjoying the Bible, which is the food of our souls.

If Christian boys and girls tell others the words of God, and show in their ways that they believe His Word, they will be using their “trumpets” and “lights.”

“Among whom ye shine as lights’ Philippians 2:15.

ML 07/24/1938

Decide for Christ

Decide for Christ today,

And God’s salvation see;

Yield soul and body, heart and will

To Him who died for thee!

Decide for Christ today,

Thyself thou canst not save;

Helpless and guilty, dead and blind,

No longer judgment brave.

Decide for Christ today,

Confess Him as thy Lord;

Proclaim to all, the Saviour’s worth,—

How faithful is His Word.

ML 07/24/1938

The Queen

With a plain, little chair for a throne, an old umbrella for a canopy, and a wreath of grape leaves for a crown, the youngest child makes a contented little queen.

Just outside the door you see the grape vines. The basket inside is full of the fruit, and now the children are feasting on the grapes they have gathered.

The rest of the children are serving their queen very attentively and kindly.

You may learn from this that you should play contentedly with your little brothers and sisters, or friends. You should be unselfish, and ready to give them first place.

If you know the Lord Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour, you have eternal life, and you will take pleasure in seeking to please Him in all your ways. He is the unselfish One who gave up all that He had in order to save us. So let us seek to please Him in everything.

“BE YE KIND ONE TO ANOTHER, TENDER-HEARTED, FORGIVING ONE ANOTHER, EVEN AS GOD FOR CHRIST’S SAKE HATH FORGIVEN YOU!” Ephesians 4:32.

ML 07/31/1938

Josey, the Truant

It was a bright morning, the birds warbled among the trees, and Josey and his schoolmates walked along the flowery lane leading from their country home, to the village school. A pretty bird flew out of a thick fir tree in the wood, close by the road, and two of the boys cried out at once, “A nest!”

In a few minutes satchels were thrown down, and one or two quickly climbing the tree looking for the nest. After quite twenty minutes’ search, they had to descend disappointed, for no nest was there. While all this was going on, time had been passing, so that while they were still in the wood, the school bell tolled. This, as they knew well, meant that they would be “late” and “kept in” at the close of lessons.

“Let’s stay in the wood till dinner-time” said one, “nobody will ever know.”

That arrangement found general favor, and although Josey knew well that his pants prohibited him from nesting in the wood, and would be very grieved if they knew that he played truant, he fell in with the plan, and was soon as much interested in the proceedings as the rest. Still he was far from easy, and while the others were up searching for nests, he listened, thinking every passing step might be his father going to the market. A baker’s van passed along the road, and the driver, probably seeing the lads robbing a nest, shouted as he passed,

“Be sure your sin will find you out!”

Whether the boys in the tree heard them or not, the strange words fell distinctly on Josey’s ear, as they echoed through the wood. How he wished he had not come there, but it was no use wishing that now. He was glad to get out of the wood, but very unhappy at the thought of appearing before his father and mother. The words echoed through the wood, seemed to still sound in his ear,

“Be sure your sin will find you out.”

Nothing was said at dinner-time, his parents not suspecting anything wrong, but at night when Josey came to give his father and mother his evening kiss, and say “goodnight,” he broke down, and told the whole story. Grieved as his parents were, they sought to show him how God had sent that voice to sound the warning text in his ear, that he might be awakened to the sinfulness of his ways, and thus made to see his need of a Saviour.

Josey never forgot that day on which he played truant, nor the text that was echoed through the wood. He is now a happy Christian boy, saved and on the way to heaven.

Dear boys and girls, let the echoed words speak this clay to you, “Be sure your sin will find you out.” Numbers 32:23.

Sin may be very sweet in its bud, but the fruit thereof will be bitterness and sorrow. Hasten to the Saviour in the days of youth; He also can remove sin’s stains, and break sin’s power, giving peace to the conscience, and rest to the heart.

“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:2.

ML 07/31/1938

Ready to Pardon

A king once visited a prison with the intention of releasing one prisoner. He asked several of them why they were there. Three laid the blame on others, and one on the jury; but one confessed that he deserved the punishment, and the king said to him,

“You are the man I will release.” So he let him go free.

Those who take that ground, and confess that they deserve punishment, receive God’s pardon and go free. We never read in God’s Word that a repentant sinner was turned away. Take for instance the thief on the cross, in the 23rd chapter of Luke. He deeply felt his guilt and confessed it. Did the Lord turn away from him and refuse his request because he was such a sinner? Listen to “His gracious answer,

“Verily, I say unto thee, Today shalt thou be with Me in paradise.” Luke 23:43.

Perhaps you are like the Pharisee in Luke 18:11, and think you are better than Many you see around you. If that is the case, may God open your eyes to see your lost condition, that you may cry like the publican,

“God be merciful to me a sinner.” Jesus said,

“I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” Luke 5:32.

“I say unto you that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance.” Luke 15:7.

ML 07/31/1938

The Two Roberts

One Sunday evening many years ago, two young fellows, both named Robert, were at a Gospel meeting. As they wended their way home, one of them who knew the Lord as his Saviour, turned to the other and said,

“Well Robert, what did you think of the message tonight? Are you going to trust in the Saviour?”

“That way of being saved is far too easy,” said his friend, and for some time they walked on talking of the all-important subject of being saved.

Presently they came to a stone bridge which went over the railway line, and as they stood looking over the rails the Christian boy said,

“Do you remember the building of that tunnel yonder? It took some years to build, it cost a large amount of money and more than one man lost his life over the job. Since then, you and I have often been through that tunnel. It was easy for us to get in the train and go through, but it was pretty costly to make such a thing possible. So, in the same way it wasn’t easy to make it possible that you and I might be saved. It cost God the giving up of His Son: it cost the Saviour the sufferings of Calvary, the bearing of the judgment, in order that you and I might be eternally blessed. O! Robert, it wasn’t easy for God, although we may find it easy to trust the Saviour.”

“I hadn’t thought of it like that before,” said his friend, and after a little more conversation the two Roberts went down on their knees on the stone bridge, and the one who until that night had not heeded the gospel message, there and then took the Lord Jesus as his Saviour, owning his need of Him, and thanking Him for making it possible that he might be saved.

It was two happy young fellows who left that bridge. On their way home they called to see a Christian friend, and the one who had so recently trusted the Saviour told how the Lord had saved him that evening on the bridge.

What rejoicing there was in that little room! And what is more, there was rejoicing also that night in the courts of glory over another sinner repenting.

Has there ever been joy in heaven over you, my dear young reader? There has, if you have come as a needy sinner to the Saviour and trusted in Him.

“Blessed are all they that put their trust in Him.” Psalms 2:12.

ML 07/31/1938

What I Learned when I was a Child

A very earnest preacher of the Gospel, named John E. was telling how he was brought to the Saviour,

“When I was unite a little child, a friend of my father came on a visit to our home. He was a loving, godly man, very fond of children. I remember he lifted me up in his arms, and whispered in my ear,

“‘There is such a thing as pardon, and there is such a thing as knowing it.’ These words never left my memory. I thought of them when a schoolboy, and although I was not then converted, they never left me. Bless God, I know now there is such a thing as pardon through the blood of Jesus, and I know it is mine, because God in His Word has said of all that believe, Your sins are forgiven.”

“These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life.” 1 John 5:13.

ML 07/31/1938

A Bad Use of Gold

Judges 8:22-28

After Gideon’s great success in driving away the enemies of Israel, the people wanted to make him their ruler. But He said. “I will not rule over you.

The Lord shall rule over you.” This was a right answer because the Lord had not said for Gideon to be king.

Gideon had honored God very much, and Israel had no more trouble from enemies while he lived.

But there was something which Gideon did which was very wrong: he asked for the gold earrings which the men of Israel had taken from the enemies, who seem to have had many ornaments, even on their camels. The men said they would willingly give Gideon the gold earrings. So a cloak was spread on the ground, and the earrings were laid on it, also jewels and choice garments, and chains from the camels’ necks.

The gold and jewels Gideon had made into what is called an ephod, which we suppose, was like the ephod worn by the high priest of Israel. Perhaps you remember how God told Moses to have the ephod made (Ex. 28). It had very much pure gold with jewels on the shoulder pieces and breastplate with the names of the tribes engraved there, and all joined by gold chains, It was “for glory and beauty”, to be worn in the Tabernacle in the worship to God, to show that all Israel was represented there.

The Lord had not given Gideon the work of a high priest. He had chosen the family of Aaron for that, so Gideon was wrong in this. And, besides, his ephod seems to have been used as an idol, worshiped by his own family and others in Israel, which was as evil as the worship of Baal whose altar he had thrown down. And we read that after Gideon’s death the people of Israel “remembered not the Lord their God, who had delivered them.”

ML 07/31/1938

Book of Books

Love the Book of God Eternal,

For its sacred pages care;

Have no friends who scorn or hate it,

None who sneer at what is there.

Fear not to confess it faithful,

For its truths to stand and dare;

God will honor all who reverence

All that He has spoken there.

Teach its truth and spread its message,

Of the fear of man beware;

God will give you strength and courage,

Sure as He has promised there.

Soon amid those heavenly regions,

Free from all earth’s din and care,

We shall know in full fruition;

All it told of Christ is there.

ML 07/31/1938

Answers to Bible Questions for June

“The Children’s Class”

1.“And he made haste,” etc. Luke 19:6.

2.“Verily I say,” etc. 18:17.

3.“But when thou art,” etc. 14:10.

4.“And if ye have not,” etc.16:12.

5.“And they told,” etc. 24:35.

6.“But there shall not,” etc. 21:18.

7.“O Jerusalem,” etc. 13:34.

Bible Questions for August

“The Children’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in John, chapters 11-21

1.Write in full the verse containing the words, “He will guide you into all truth.”

2.Write in full the verse containing the words, “He it is that loveth me.”

3.Write in full the verse containing the words, “There shall also my servant be.”

4.Write in full the verse containing the words, “And the world hath hated them.”

5.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Feed my lambs.”

6.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Behold the man.”

7.Which Mary was it whose brother Lazarus was sick?

Answers to Bible Questions for June

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

1.Those which trusted in themselves and despised others. Luke 18:9.

2.Ye shall all likewise perish. Luke 13:5.

3.The law, the prophets, and the Psalms, Luke 24:44.

4.Enmity to Christ. Luke 23:11-12.

5.Luke 22:32.

6.Till he comes. Luke 19:13.

7.Judgment. Luke 17:26-36. Compare Matthew 24:39.

Bible Questions for August

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

The Answers are to be found in John, chapter 11 to 21

1.Whom did our Lord gather together in one?

2.How is the Father glorified?

3.How long is the believer to follow Christ?

4.What verse would show that our Lord did not practice secret rites?

5.By what is the believer sanctified?

6.What must the believer expect in the world?

7.Through Whom must we come to the Father?

ML 08/07/1938

The Door Was Shut

The Lord Jesus is coming again! A great separation is about to take place. Soon all who believe in Jesus will be caught away into heavenly glory, as Enoch and Elijah of old, and all others will be left outside. Perhaps many of those personally known to you, and even related to you, will presently disappear suddenly from this scene, and you will be left behind. What dismay will fill your soul then!

The times are serious, and you will do well to face your position thoughtfully. How do you stand in relation to the Lord Jesus? Do you know Him as your own personal Saviour and Lord? Have you, as a lost sinner, found refuge in Him? Is His great Calvary-work the ground of your confidence and hope?

He “once suffered for sins, the Just for the unjust, tit He might bring us to God” (1 Peter 3:18).

“They that were ready went in with Him to the marriage: and the door was shut.” Matt. 25:10.

Thus will it be at the Lord’s return. On which side of that door will you be found? It will be of no avail to plead religious pression, or morality. None of these constitute readiness to meet the Lord. Faith in His Name, and cleansing by His blood, are what He looks for. If you are not thus ready, now is your time to seek His grace. Ere the door is shut, we entreat you to obtain His salvation.

“Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near.” Isa. 55:6.

ML 08/07/1938

My Little Class of Five

Only five little girls! Who would waste their time with such a class as that? Better go where you can get something worth doing.”

So I was told again and again, but I stuck to my little class of five. They were sometimes unruly enough, and more than once I was tempted. to leave it to someone else, though I never did it, but toiled on, seeking their salvation. Today, my little class of five, are all Christians, saved by grace, serving the same Lord of whom I told them twenty-five years ago, seeking in the same old Sunday school to lead others to Christ.

C. the youngest, was the first to be saved. Her sister died, and was laid in the snow-covered churchyard on a New Year’s day. This aroused C. to think of her own salvation. A week after she came to tell me she was saved by believing,

“As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.” John 3:14,15.

One after another, of the other four, “came to Jesus” during that year, and the whole five have gone on steadily, devotedly following the Lord, and serving Him ever since.

What a joy it is to me to see them, and to hear from their lips how happy they are in the Saviour’s love. Not one of them regrets being early brought to Jesus, to accept Him as their own personal Saviour, and to confess and own Him as their Lord. I am sure neither will you, if you decide to be His, and allow Him to save and set you on the way to heaven. Trust and confess Jesus now.

ML 08/07/1938

A Feast

Here is a happy little girl with the baby chicks perched on her shoulder and arm, and climbing over her lap after some food. The birds in the window above, too, are hoping for some of the slice of bread that looks so good.

The animals get hungry just the same as you and I do, and we ought to do all we can to see that they have plenty of food. Let us think about the birds too, and put food where they will find it.

Our fathers and mothers work hard to earn money for our food and clothes. Day after day they labor for it. When Jesus was here He said,

“Labor not for the meat (or food) which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you.” John 6:27.

While in this world we have to have food, but we are here for only a few short years, and then what? Bread, milk, meat, vegetables, and fruit are food for our earthly bodies to keep us alive, but we need another kind of food for everlasting life.

Then Jesus explained to His disciples what He meant by the “meat that endureth unto everlasting’ life.” He said.

“I AM THE BREAD OF LIFE: HE THAT COMETH TO ME SHALL NEVER HUNGER; AND HE THAT BELIEVETH IN ME SHALL NEVER THIRST.” John 6:35.

Dear reader, have you come to Jesus? Have you found in Him the Bread of life for your soul?

ML 08/07/1938

The King of the Trees

Judges 9:7-16

A very wicked man wanted to be king in Israel. He was not chosen by God as the Judges were, and he did not help, free Israel from their enemies. But with money, he hired men to follow him, and did most cruelly to his brothers for fear they would hinder him. One brother, the youngest, named Dothan, escaped and hid himself.

The day the men of Shechem gathered together to make this wicked man their king, Dothan climbed up on the mountain above them and called to them to listen to him. There is a great rock which is still called “Jothan’s Rock”, and it is said a man’s voice can be heard very plainly in the valley below. It was from the same mountain that Joshua had the blessings read to all the big company of Israel (Joshua 8:32-35).

The story Jothan told was what is called a fable, because trees which cannot talk are told of as though they could, to teach a lesson. This was the story:

Once the trees wanted a king over them: First, they asked the olive tree, saying, “Rule thou over us.” But the olive tree said it would not be well for it to leave the growing of its good fruit and oil to be the king.

Next, they asked the fig tree. But the fig tree said it did not want to stop growing its sweet fruit to serve as king.

Then, they asked the grape vine. But the vine did not want to stop growing its nice fruit, either. So, at last, they asked the bramble bush to be their king. A bramble bush is full of prickers, and of no good use for anything. It was very willing to be king over the trees, and said all must come under its shadow, and if any would not do so it would send fire to destroy them, even the great cedar tree! What a cruel, boastful ruler the bramble bush would be!

Jothan wanted to show the people that they were making as bad a choice of a king, as if the good trees would choose a thorny bramble bush to rule them. He told them to refuse the wicked king, and God would help them.

Yet they did not take Jothan’s good advice, and he had to run away.

Three years after, the wicked king was killed in a battle.

God has always sent warning to His people, as he did by Jothan. He again gave. Israel judges to save them from the enemies. But there were many sad, evil deeds done, because the people worshiped idols more and more, instead of obeying the Lord.

ML 08/07/1938

Come to Jesus

Shall Jesus suffer death for me,

That I might never die;

And I not long His face to see,

Nor to His bosom fly?

Shall Jesus call and wait for me,

His arms extended wide;

And I refuse His child to be,

Nor in His bosom hide?

Shall Jesus open wide the gate,

And bid me enter in;

And I despise His love so great,

And perish in my sin?

“How shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation?” Hebrews 2:3.

ML 08/07/1938

The Meadow Lark

Do the birds ever waken you early in the morning with sweet songs? The meadow lark is a specially sweet songster; this one looks very happy with his mate. Their nest, though we cannot see it, is nearby in the meadow.

We should thank the Lord for giving us the birds and so many things out of doors to make us happy. Saved boys and girls have the right to be the very happiest of all of God’s creatures, and if their hearts are full of love for Jesus, they will want to open their mouths often in songs of praise to Him.

We read a great deal about our mouths in Scripture. In Matthew 21:16 we find that even babes and children may say things that will bring praise to the Lord’s name. We can tell what people are interested in, too, by what they talk about; so the Lord Jesus says in Matthew 12:34, that “out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaketh.”

So, dear children, let is think more about the Lord Jesus each day, and about what He has done for us; then I am sure our mouths will speak for Hint, and we will love to praise Him, too.

“BY HIM, THEREFORE, LET US OFFER THE SACRIFICE OF PRAISE TO GOD CONTINUALLY, THAT IS, THE FRUIT OF OUR LIPS, GIVING THANKS TO HIS NAME.” Hebrews 13:15.

ML 08/14/1938

Eternity

A minister was dying, and he called his son, who was a thoughtless boy, to his bedside.

“Tom,” he said, “will you promise me one thing before I die? I only ask that, when I am gone, you will go every evening alone for fifteen minutes and say, ‘What is eternity? and where shall I spend it?’”

The promise was given, and faithfully kept. At first the boy thought little of the words; but he went on doing as he had promised his father, until, at last, he was not able to face the awful question any longer, and was led to give himself to Jesus.

Where will you spend eternity, my reader? You do not wish to spend it in the lake of fire: but have you fled to the only place of refuge from that fearful place of woe, the Lord Jesus Christ?

Every tick of the clock is bringing us nearer eternity. O, come to the. Saviour now. The Word of God tells us: “Behold, now is the accepted time, bold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:2. And again,

“Him that comteth to Me, I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

“Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth My Word, and believeth on Him that sent Me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.” John 5:24.

“Eternity! Where? O, friend have a care!

For soon God will no longer His judgment forbear.

Eternity! Where? O! Eternity! Where?

This night may decide your Eternity—Where?

Eternity!! Where? Eternity! Where?

Soon the Saviour will come for His own in the air;

Then sleep not, nor take in the world any share,

Till answered this question—Eternity: Where?

ML 08/14/1938

A Wonderful Magnet

I wonder how many of my readers know what a magnet is. I suppose many of you have seen the strange little piece of steel that can pick up another piece of steel or iron and hold it tight to itself. Today I want to tell you about a large round magnet. Besides little pieces of steel or iron, this one can lift great big pieces—pieces far bigger than any man could lift.

Some men had to move a very big pile of little tiny pieces of steel, some no bigger than your little finger nail, and yet the pile was as big as a house. They shoveled all the top part of the pile into railway cars and took them away. When they got down to the bottom of the pile, they could not do this, as they shoveled too much dirt up with the steel or else left much of the steel behind.

At last someone thought about this magnet I was telling about, They brought it over to the place where the pieces of steel were lying and moved it about in the air a little above the steel, and O! children, it was wonderful to see all those little pieces of steel come out from under the dirt and go up to meet the magnet in the air.

They were all caught up by the magnet. None was left behind. Bright, shining pieces—old, dirty, rusty pieces, the magnet drew them all up to itself in the air. But none of the dirt went up to meet the magnet. It was every bit left behind.

I am sure this reminds you, as it did me, of a far more wonderful time, when, instead of little pieces of steel being caught up to meet a magnet, boys and girls and men and women, whose sins are washed away in the precious blood of Christ, will he caught up to meet the Lord in the air. It makes us think of that time when “The Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God; and the dead in Christ shall rise first; then we which are alive and remain, shall he caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air, and so shall we ever be with the Lord.” 1 Thessalonians 4:16,17.

Just as every bit of true steel was attracted by the magnet from the midst of all the dirt around, so everyone, who is a true believer in the Lord Jesus, will be attracted by His power, to Himself, and when He gives that shout, each one will rise off this sad old earth to meet the Lord in the air.

O, dear reader, will you be caught up to meet the Lord in the air, when He comes for His own, or—awful thought—will you, like the dirt, he left behind?

“Yet a little while, and He that shall come, will come, and will not tarry.” Hebrews 10:37.

ML 08/14/1938

His Love and His Power

The question was asked in a Sunday school, “When the Good Shepherd found the sheep, how did He bring it home?”

Many of the clear children answered the question correctly, “On His shoulders.”

I have sometimes heard it read, “On His shoulder,” but this is not true. A butcher might unfeelingly sling a poor sheep over one shoulder, but the Shepherd could not do so. How uncomfortable the poor thing would he, with its head hanging over the shepherd’s back! No, the Good Shepherd holds all the legs firmly, two in each hand, and places the sheep gently on His shoulders, its poor weary head resting on His loving bosom. What a place of love and peace, ourselves the object of that love and power!

A dear aged servant of the Lord would often ask the question,

“On Whom does it depend now whether the poor, silly, straying sheep gets safely home?’’

Does it depend on the sheep at all when once he is securely placed on those powerful shoulders? The Shepherd is responsible now, and He is all-powerful and all-loving. No fear of His footsteps slipping, or His strength failing, until His sheep is placed safely in the home which He has prepared for it

“Now unto Him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy, to the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.” Jude 24,25.

ML 08/14/1938

Little Minnie

A little company of young boys and girls were spending the clay together in the country. A little girl named Minnie, who formed one of the company, overheard a cluster of girls speaking of their joy and peace in Christ, and of the certainty of being in heaven. Little attention was being paid to the little girl, until she gave a great sob, and burst into tears. Her eldest sister took her on her knee, and said,

“What’s the matter, Minnie, dear?” Sobbing bitterly, Minnie answered, “I’m not saved, and I know that I cannot go to heaven with you until I am converted.”

The girls were glad to see the Spirit of God working with one so young, and making known her sinful and lost condition to her tender conscience. They told her of the love of God, and of Jesus’ death for sinners on the cross, and pointed her to Him who gives the weary rest. Her young heart was opened to receive Him as her own and only Saviour. She bore a clear and bright testimony to the reality of her conversion to God, and God gave her a clear grasp of the truth.

One day she heard it whispered that Tom—a boy who professed to be a Christian—had done something inconsistent with such a profession.

“O,” said Minnie, “when old Tom was alive he used to do that. Now new Tom lives, and old Tom should not be there.”

The Lord, who saved Minnie at so early an age, can save you too, my dear young reader, and He will, if you trust Him. Then you will know and enjoy the happiness of being a iamb of the good Shepherd’s flock.

“He shall feed His flock like a shepherd: He shall gather the lambs with His arm, and carry them in His bosom.” Isaiah 40:11.

“I am the Good Shepherd: the Good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep.” John 10:11.

ML 08/14/1938

The Strongest Man

Judges 13 and 14

You have heard of Samson, who was stronger than any other man. But perhaps you do not know why he was so strong, nor that he was a judge of Israel.

At that time the people of Israel worshiped idols so much that God let a fierce nation rule over them.

There were some in Israel who still trusted in God, and He sent an angel to a woman and her husband to tell them that they should have a son who should begin to deliver Israel from the enemy. This family were of the tribe of Dan whose land was by the side the enemy’s.

When this promised son was born he was named, Samson, which means “strong”. The angel had said he should drink no wine or any liquor, nor ever have his hair cut. The words of the angel were obeyed and when Samson was grown a man, he had long hair. As we read of what he did, we know he was indeed very strong.

In that land there were fierce, wild animals, and one day Samson was walking alone, and a young lion came toward him, ready to spring upon him. He had no weapon to strike the lion, but he took hold of it and quickly killed it.

Afterward he came that way again, and he stopped to see if the dead body of the lion were still there. It was, and there were bees making honey in the torn body. Wild bees make honey in all sorts of places, hollow trees or stumps, or among rocks, and the wax keeps the honey clean and good. But we might not like to eat that taken from a dead lion. But Samson ate of it and took some to his parents, but did not tell where he had found it.

Then he made a riddle about the lion and the honey and told it to some men. Perhaps you have heard the riddle:

“Out of the eater came forth meat,

Out of the strong came forth sweetness,” No one could guess the riddle, until they heard about the lion and the honey. Then they said to Samson:

“What is stronger than a lion?

What is sweeter than honey?”

It was God who gave Samson such strength that he could kill a lion.

This story makes us think of the verse which speaks of Satan as “a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” And the next verse says, “Whom resist steadfast in the faith.” 1 Peter 5:8,9.

So when we are tempted to do or say, or listen to something wrong we are to trust in God, and He will help us to keep from the wrong, that is what it means to “resist”.

ML 08/14/1938

The River Jordan

What a beautiful spot on the River Jordan! There are many rivers in the world that present such a picture, and many more beautiful than this one, yet we know that many of our Sunday school children are interested in that river on account of the many incidents recorded in Scripture in connection with it.

Many people are quite superstitious about it, as if it were more sacred or holy than any other river on account of the children of Israel having been brought through it on dry land; and John the Baptist having baptized people in it unto repentance; and the Lord Jesus associated Himself with the repentant few who were confessing their sins and turning away from them. But these things do not make that river any better than any other, save that it has a particular interest.

As we have mentioned the fact of the Lord associating Himself with those who were confessing their sins, it will be well for us to mention that the Lord Jesus had no sins to confess, but it was a. righteous thing for those people to confess their sins, and therefore the Lord could say to John (who wondered at the Lord for wanting to be baptized of Him), “It becometh us to fulfill all righteousness.”

God at that moment opened the heavens, and said,

“THIS IS MY BELOVED SON IN WHOM I AM WELL PLEASED.” Matthew 3:17.

God would not allow the people to think that the Lord Jesus was a sinner, like the rest of them.

ML 08/21/1938

A Small Boy's Gift

Ivan was the name of a boy to whom his father and mother often told of the love of God, and how the Lord Jesus came to bear the punishment of sin. Ivan loved to hear God’s Word read, and was a happy boy.

But when he heard that there were many boys and girls in the world who never heard of the Saviour, many who bowed to images of wood and stone, he felt very bad for those sad children. He began to wonder if he could help send them the story of Jesus.

Ivan’s parents were poor, and there was but little money even for needed things. But Ivan had four little coins which had been given him; they were only as much as a few pennies in our money, but Ivan thought of how they could be used.

He knew that the men who made Bibles and Testaments used small lead pieces, called type, to print the words, and he thought that his four coins would be enough to pay for the small type that would print the dot above the letter, i, in the name, Christ Jesus.

Ivan told his father his plan and his few coins were sent to a man in a far land who told out the Gospel Story, and were used for the Name the little boy loved so much. Ivan could have used his coins for candy or a plaything, but think how much better he spent them!

There still are very many children who, have not been told of the Lord Jesus, whom we might help to hear God’s Word, if we are as willing as Ivan to do so.

“He that hath pity upon the poor, lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given, will He pay him again.” Proverbs 19:17.

ML 08/21/1938

Binnie's Fear

I would like to be a Christian too, mother; same as Kitty, but I’m afraid I might profess without being real.”

Binnie had come home from the Sunday evening meeting, which had been an unusually solemn one, and after sitting thoughtfully in the parlor beside his mother and sister, he broke out in the words quoted above. Kitty had been converted a few weeks before, and was very happy. Their mother had known the Lord, and followed Him for many years, and their father had gone to heaven. Binnie was the only one of the little circle yet unsaved, and he felt his position very keenly. He was an obedient, gentle boy, a real comfort to his dear mother, yet a burden on her heart, because unconverted to God.

Binnie knew quite well that he was a sinner, and needed a Saviour, but he feared, as he said, lest he might profess to be Christ’s and then go back to the world. These fears were strengthened by the fact that several boys of his own age and acquaintance, who had professed conversion some time before, seemed to be worse than ever. The devil uses such cases to stumble and hinder those who are truly seeking after the way of life.

Binnie’s mother tried to show him clearly from God’s Word that all who trust Christ are “kept” as well as saved (Rom. 1:16 by “the power of God” (1 Peter 1:6). He seemed to grasp the meaning of that “kept.” He said,

“That’s just what I need. I have been anxious many a time at nights, but when I thought of trusting myself to Jesus, and believing His Word, the thought came upon me—what about tomorrow? And when I remembered that I had to go to school, and be there amid so much temptation, I thought it was no use, I could never stand it.”

“But you see, Binnie, dear,” said the mother, “it is not your strength, but God’s, and the question is, will His power be sufficient to keep you cleaving to the Lord, and following Him?”

“Yes, I see that now,” said Binnie, and the cloud passed from his brow.

That was the night of Binnie’s conversion. He trusted himself to Jesus, for today, tomorrow, and all along, and he has proved that Jesus is both able to save and keep. He. has often been tempted by wicked boys to leave the “paths of righteousness,” and to sin against God, but in these moments of trial, Binnie has trusted the Lord, and sought to obey His Word, which says,

“My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not,” (Prov. 1:10), and it has preserved him and kept him.

My dear boys and girls, some of you may be in the same difficulty as Binnie—afraid to face tomorrow. But you need not. Jesus is a daily Saviour and Keeper for all who trust Him. He saves from an eternal hell, once and forever, the moment you believe on Him; and from daily temptation and every evil thing day by day, on to the gate of heaven.

“Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5, 6.

ML 08/21/1938

Jesus Loves Me

Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.” Luke 17:18.

One cold morning a boy, looking miserable and ragged, was seen in the street of a large city. A gentleman, in passing, was struck with his hungry appearance and abject looks. After a few questions had been asked and answered, the promise of food and shelter for the day induced the boy to consent to attend a. Sunday school not far off.

The story which he heard of the Lord Jesus and His love, came to him as a new and wonderful thing—he had never heard of it before, Poor fellow! He had never known a mother’s love, and his father was a drunkard, and paid little heed to him. Gradually the light shone into his soul, and it became evident to all around that Willie was indeed one of Jesus’ little lambs. He carried such a well-spring of happiness with him, that even his miserable home seemed brighter. One evening he sat singing to himself,

“I am so glad that Jesus loves me!”

“Stop that!” roared his father, and Willie was silent, but soon, with the forgetfulness of a child, began again,

“I am so glad—”

This time he was ordered to bed and, though he went quietly enough, the words kept ringing in his head, “Jesus loves me,” and he felt he could not be unhappy now that he knew that was true. In the middle of the night he was awakened by hearing his name called,

“Willie, Willie, sing that again!” Could it be a dream? No; there sat his father beside his bed. So Willie sat up and sang the hymn.

“Is it all true, Willie?”

“Quite true, father. Jesus died for you and me, so He must love us,”

“O! Willie, can you pray for me?”

“I don’t quite know what to say, father.”

“Say, I am the biggest sinner on earth, but I want Jesus to love me, and make me good.”

With his arms clasped around his father’s neck, Willie prayed, “Lord Jesus, this is my father, and he says he has been very wicked. O, Lord Jesus, make him fit to live with Thee in heaven, and teach him to love Thee.”

Little Willie’s prayer was answered, His father received the forgiveness and peace and joy he sought, by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

“Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:1.

ML 08/21/1938

How the Strong Man Became Weak

Judges 15 and 16

Samson, who was a judge in Israel, did many deeds no other man could do alone, because God gave him very great strength.

One night he was in Gaza, a city of the enemy, and the men there, who hated Samson, planned to kill him at daylight. The city had a high wall and the gate was locked and barred. But while the men slept, Samson lifted the gate, posts, bars, and all, and went away carrying them on his shoulders.

Twice he let himself be bound with strong ropes, and the men of the enemy were very pleased, for they wanted to put him in prison. But after the ropes were fastened tight, he broke them, as if they were only threads, and went free.

Once he was bound with seven stout green branches or vines, which are very hard to break, yet he easily broke them all.

Also, he let his seven long locks of hair he pinned fast to a beam of the ceiling; then he walked away, taking the beam of wood!

No one could understand such strength; and it is sad that Samson did not use his great power more to help Israel; instead, he made friends in the enemy’s land, which God had said not to do. One friend was an evil woman, who had been offered money if she could get Samson to be taken a prisoner. She begged him to tell her how he was so strong. At last he told her that if his long hair were cut off he would be no stronger than any other man.

So, while Samson was sleeping, the woman had a man come and shave off his hair. When he awoke the men stood near, ready to take him. He tried to go free, as at other times, but could not; his great strength was gone! The men took him to Gaza and treated him very cruelly, putting out his eyes. They kept him chained in prison, but made him grind their grain.

So the strong man became weak because God’s words were disobeyed, for the angel of God had said that Samson should never have his hair cut.

These people, who were enemies of Samson and all Israel, were the Philistines. At last, because of them, all the country of Canaan was called, “Palestine”, and is still so named.

Find the place, Gaza, on a map of Palestine, near the Mediterranean Sea. There is a large city there now.

ML 08/21/1938

The Saviour's Invitation

Sweet the words by Jesus spoken,

While on earth He used to be,

“I have loved the little children,

Suffer them to come to Me.”

Now arrayed in Heavenly glory,

On the throne of God above;

Still He calls the little children,

With the same unchanging love.

I believe Thy invitation,

Young and feeble though I be,

And to Thee I come, Lord Jesus,

Thine own little one to be.

ML 08/21/1938

Life Is Short

Blessed Saviour, Thou art with us

In this lovely wood today.

Joying to behold our gladness,

Pleased to see the children play.

Lord, the leaves to us are speaking,

Waving gently in the breeze;

“Life is short,” they seem to tell us,

“Not for long we grace the trees.”

Lord, we thank Thee for the sunshine,

For the sweet and balmy air;

All around us Thou hast lavished

Gifts which tell that Thou art here.

Ah! Lord Jesus, Thou hast told us,

As a leaf we all do fade;

But in death we hail the advent

Of a life beyond the grave.

Spring is ours, as well as autumn,

An eternal, fadeless spring;

On the Resurrection Morning

Perfected, Thy praise we’ll sing.

Never more shall we be weary,

Never bear one taint of sin;

Speed the wings of time, Lord Jesus,

Love’s eternity begin.

“AS FOR ME, I WILL BEHOLD THY FACE IN RIGHTEOUSNESS: I SHALL BE SATISFIED WHEN I AWAKE WITH THY LIKENESS.” Psalms 17:15.

ML 08/28/1938

Little Margaret and Her New Treasures

Little Margaret was early taught by God’s grace to follow the Lord Jesus, and to know Him as her Saviour. The Holy Spirit opened her young heart to see herself a sinful child, and to come to Christ to save her soul and make her His forever.

After she had heard the Shepherd’s voice, she desired to learn more and more of His love, and read the Scriptures for herself. God’s Word became her dearest book, and she loved to search it to find its treasures for herself.

When little Margaret found any sweet verse, she would come and tell her mother of another treasure she had found. She asked her mother if she might read any part of her Bible that she wished, and having permission, she always turned to some portion which she thought contained spiritual instruction, or some sweet promise to feed her soul.

She was very fond of the Proverbs, and came to her mother one day, saying with much delight,

“O, mother I have found such a beautiful text. I think I shall never forget it all my life.”

“What is it, dear Maggie?” inquired the mother.

“It is the fourth chapter of Proverbs, verse eighteen,” answered little Margaret.

“The path of the just is as a shining light, which shineth, more and more unto the perfect day.” “And” added the little girl, “it is all true mother, for it is God’s Word, and it means that our path will shine brighter and brighter until we see Jesus, and are with Him in heaven.”

Another passage gave her also great pleasure; you will find it in the sixth chapter, from the twentieth to the twenty-third verses,

“My son, keep thy father’s commandment, and forsake not the law of thy mother: bind them continually upon thine heart, and tie them about thy neck. When thou goest, it shall lead thee; when thou sleepest, it shall keep thee; and when thou awakest, it shall talk with thee. For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life.”

Happy little Margaret! God’s blessed, Word was indeed her companion, her guide, and her comforter. Her earthly path was like the shining light, which shineth more and more unto the perfect day.

Those children who truly love and follow the Lord Jesus, and who delight in God’s Holy Word, glorify Him whom the angels in heaven worship; they will be to His praise. Like the morning light, they softly and sweetly shine on all around in holy, loving, humble, Christlike ways; and the Saviour says of all dear children “Of such is the kingdom of heaven.”

How dear to Christ is the little child who believes in His Name. How much happier to be a little lamb in the Shepherd’s bosom, than running wild on the mountains where sin and darkness are.

ML 08/28/1938

Do You Know Anybody Yonder?

Dear young friend, suppose yourself in a railway train, on your way to New York. You have never been there before. The place is unite new and strange to you. You know nobody. But a friend of your own has gone on before you. He knows you are coming, and has agreed to meet you on your arrival. You depend can on him. He will take charge of you at your journey’s end; and among the crowds of strange faces, and the din and loneliness of the great city, you will be free from all anxiety when under his care. That one assurance will dispel all your fears.

But what a sad case yours would be, if in undertaking that same journey you, an inexperienced traveler, had no such one to meet you! You must go. The night is dark, and cold, and wet. You are a perfect stranger, without means and without friends. You are being carried swiftly along to your destination, to be turned out of the train at midnight, desolate and lonely in the heart of that great city. Would not sad misgivings and anxieties overwhelm you, as to what you would do, and where you would go, when the end should have come? Certainly you would think and plan some course, and seek with earnestness any possible advice or help.

Dear young reader, you may in reality he in circumstances far more sad than such I have supposed. Human life is a journey. You are being surely and swiftly carried along. You must go. Soon you may be at your journey’s end—the hour of death. And perhaps you shall find yourself friendless, and helpless, and homeless, when that solemn hour shall have come. Have you any friends or any means? You will be in sad want if you have not. Are you not concerned about what you will do, and where you will go?

Some time since, I was called to visit a dying boy. He was very engaging and lovely, about nine or ten years old. His godly mother was greatly concerned about his salvation. One day, as he lay on her lap, she said to him, with tenderness and tears that told her heart was breaking,

“Jamie, are you afraid to die?”

The tears gathered in his big, bright eyes, too, and, looking up through them, he replied,

“Yes, mother, I am.’’

“What makes you afraid, my darling boy?”

“Ah! mother, I don’t know anybody yonder. They are all strangers to me.” Then, after a short pause, during which mother and child wept together, he added,

“Mother, I would not be afraid to die if you would go with me; but O! I am afraid to go away all alone to be among strangers.”

Before his end came, through the Lord’s mercy and grace, he had become a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ, and had Him for a friend; and so was delivered from all his fears.

There is only ONE who can be our Friend in the hour of death, and that is Jesus, who did die and has risen from the dead, and took away the power of death to the Christian. It is only to go to live with Him forever.

“Absent from the body,...present with the Lord.” 2 Cor. 5:8.

“To die is gain.” Philippians 1:21.

ML 08/28/1938

Let Go of the Rope

A boy, on the roof of a high building where several men were at work, was gazing about with apparent unconcern when his foot slipped and he fell. In falling he caught a rope and hung suspended in the air where he could only hold on for a short time. He knew his danger and expected in a few minutes to be dashed to death on the stones below. At this moment a kind and powerful man rushed out of the house, and standing beneath him with extended arms, called out,

“Let go of the rope, I will catch you.”

“I can’t do it,” said the boy.

“Let go and I promise you won’t be hurt.”

The poor, frightened boy hesitated for a moment, and then let go and dropped easily and safely into the arms of the man.

Here is a simple act of faith. He knew he was in danger of death, he saw that someone was ready to save him, he believed what he said, he let go every other dependence and hope, and dropped right into the arms of his saviour.

“The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.” Deuteronomy 33:27.

ML 08/28/1938

The Death of Samson

Judges 16:21-31

We do not know how long Samson was in the prison at Gaza, after the enemy had cut his hair. But his hair began to grow again, and his strength came back to him, but he could not see, for they had put out his eyes.

One day a great number of the chief men and women of that land came tether to hold a feast and sacrifice to their idol, because they said the idol had given Samson to them. This feast must have been in a very large building. We read of there being three thousand people in it.

They called for Samson to be brought out of the prison so they could all see and laugh at him.

A boy led Samson by the hand, and Samson asked him to bring him to the middle pillars which held up the great roof, or porch, where the people stood to see and rejoice over him. They did not know he had become strong again.

Samson felt very angry at them because of the loss of his eyes, and wanted to punish them. He put his right arm around one big pillar, and his left arm around the other big pillar; then he bent forward with all his great strength, and pushed the pillars out from under the roof, so the whole house suddenly fell, and all the people were killed. This was a dreadful thing and Samson too was killed. His relatives heard of his death, and came after his body and buried him on his father’s land.

So the story of the strong man is a sad one, because of his making friends those who did not believe in the Lord.

Find how long Samson was a judge of Israel (Judges 15:20; and 16:31).

There were two more men who judged Israel, but are not told of in the Book of Judges, but later, in the Book of Samuel. There were many sad things done in the land of Israel because the people worshiped idols and did not keep God’s words. The last verse of the book says,

“Every man did that which was right in his own eyes.”

ML 08/28/1938

"I Will Come Again"

Dear children, have you ever heard

Jesus the Lord will come,

With archangel’s voice and trump of God

To call His people Home?

Then they who live shall changed be

And they who sleep shall rise;

The graves shall yield their ancient charge

And Christ His people take.

The saints of God, from death set free,

With joy shall mount on high;

The heaven shall ring with praises loud,

They’ll meet Him in the air.

Together to their Father’s House

With joyful hearts they go,

To dwell forever with the Lord,

Beyond the reach of woe.

O, say, If He should come today,

Would you in terror be?

Or would you lift your heads with joy,

The blessed Lord to see?

O! children, seek the Saviour now—

The Saviour full of love;

And when He comes He’ll take you up

To His bright Home above.

ML 08/28/1938

Answers to Bible Questions for July

“The Children’s Class”

1.“If he called them,” etc. John 10:35.

2.“And needed not,” etc. 2:25.

3.“How can ye,” etc. 5:44.

4.“John answered,” etc. 3:27.

5.“If any man,” etc. 7:17.

6.“Your father,” etc. 8:56.

7.“He said, I am,” etc. 1:23.

Bible Questions for September

“The Children’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in Acts, ch. 1-14

1.Write in full the verse containing the words, “It shall he told thee what thou must do.”

2.Write in full the verse containing the words, “What was I, that I could withstand God?”

3.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Silver and gold have I none.”

4.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Confirming the souls of the disciples.”

5.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Full of faith and power.”

6.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Shall so come in like manner.”

7.Whom did Stephen see standing on the right hand of God?

Answers to Bible Questions for July

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

1.Willing to do His will. John 7:17.

2.By eating of that heavenly bread. (Christ) John 6:51.

3.John 10.36.

4.John Baptist. John 1:34.

5.That he would rise from the dead. John 2:19.

6.Yes, always. Jim. 3:13.

7. To the Samaritan woman. John 4:26.

Bible Questions for September

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

The Answers are to be found in Acts, ch. 1 to 14

1.What was the birthday of the Church?

2.How long was Jesus on earth after His resurrection?

3.From what place did Paul and Barnabas go forth?

4.What did the church do about Peter’s imprisonment?

5.What chapter gives the admission of Gentiles into the church?

6.Where is the Son of Man now?

7.What were the two first recorded sins in the church?

ML 09/04/1938

The Everlasting Arms

An interesting and touching incident is recorded in the life of Dr. John G. Paton, the famous missionary who labored for God in the Islands of the South Seas. He had been speaking on behalf of his work at a meeting in L., and said, in the course of his address,

“How precious is the knowledge that we have the everlasting arms of Jesus round us to keep and comfort us in all our difficulties through life.”

A little girl who heard these words was much impressed, and could not get them off her mind. That evening, when sitting on her father’s knee, she gave utterance to her thoughts.

“Papa, wouldn’t you like to feel the everlasting arms of Jesus round you to keep you safe and happy?”

The father was somewhat taken aback for he knew nothing of spiritual experience.

“Why, darling, what do you mean?” he asked.

“Well, papa,” said the little girl, “I heard the missionary say how happy he and all of us might be, by having the everlasting arms of Jesus round us, and I felt sure you and I would like to have them round us, wouldn’t you now?”

The Holy Spirit used that young child for her simple, but pointed question was the means of her father entering into a definite experience of salvation. Father and daughter became conscious that the everlasting arms were ever around them.

What of you, dear reader? Are you yet unmindful of the loving arms of Jesus?

ML 09/04/1938

Charles and Jane

The Bible tells us that the way to be saved is to “believe on the Lord Jesus Christ.” To believe in Jesus, or to have faith in Jesus, means the same thing as to trust in Him. When Jesus hung bleeding and dying on the cross, He was suffering the punishment of our sins. And because He has suffered for our sins, we go free. We are pardoned and saved when we believe in Jesus, or when we trust in Him.

I was reading about two little children —a brother and sister, Their names were Charles and Jane. They loved each other very much, and were generally good children. But sometimes they gave way to bad tempers, and then they had to be punished.

One day little Jane, who was but four years old, had been doing something wrong. To punish her for this her mother told her she couldn’t go out to play, but she must sit still in the corner of the nursery for half an hour. Presently Charles came in. He was older than Jane. Finding that his sister had to be punished for doing wrong, he said,

“Mother, please let me sit in Janie’s place, and take her punishment for her,”

His mother was pleased at his kindness, and said he might. Then he ran up to his sister and kissed her and said,

“Now Janie you may go and play, and I will stay here in your place.”

When Janie was gone he settled himself down quietly and seemed to be engaged in thinking earnestly about something. After a while he said,

“Mother, isn’t this like Jesus?”

“What do you mean, my child?” asked his mother.

“Why, didn’t Jesus take our punishment when He hung upon the cross, that we might not be punished forever, just as have taken Janie’s punishment?”

That little fellow was right. He understood God’s way of salvation. His sister was out playing because he was bearing her punishment. The Bible tells us,

“He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities and with His stripes we are healed.” Isa. 53:5. What any poor sinner has to do in order to be saved, is to trust in Jesus. This is what Jesus meant when He said,

“God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.

“Whosoever believeth”—or trusteth Jesus, “hath everlasting life.”

ML 09/04/1938

Where God Is

I will give you a shilling, Tommy, if you will tell me where God is,” said an infidel to a little boy, whose godly mother had taught him the truths of God’s Word.

“And I will give you the shilling back,” said Tommy, “if you will tell me where God is not.” The infidel had no answer to give.

“The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good,” Prov. 15:3.

Listen to this, boys and girls, at home, in school, at work, at play, “Thou God seest me.” Gen. 16:13.

ML 09/04/1938

God's Wonderful Creation

“He spake, and it was clone.” Psa. 33:9.

Who made the world, so fair and bright,

And hung it up in space,

And made two orbs to give it light,

And set them in their place?

Who binds the water in the clouds;

Who rules the raging sea;

Who holds the overflowing floods,

At whose rebuke they flee?

Who formed the everlasting hills,

Which tower to the sky?

Who made the sparkling little rills,

That laugh and bubble by?

Who made the trees, the grass, the flowers,

The little birds so gay;

Who gives the sweet, refreshing showers,

And sends the sun’s bright ray?

‘Tis God alone, who can create,

Who made the earth and sun,

The Firmament so vast and great;

Who “Spake, and it was done.”

And He made man, and when he fell,

Devised a plan in love,

To save him from the depths of hell,

And give a home above.

Then let our hearts go forth to God;

All praise to Him be given!

We’ll bless Him, and adore, and laud,

The Lord of earth and heaven.

“BY HIM WERE ALL THINGS CRTED, THAT ARE IN HEAVEN, AND THAT ARE IN EARTH.” Col. 1:16.

ML 09/04/1938

In a Time of Famine

Book of Ruth, ch. 1

A man, who had fields and a home at Bethlehem, took his wife and two sons to live in another country, Moab. They left their own land because there was so little food there,—it was a time of famine.

This family stayed in Moab about ten years, and the sons each married a young woman of that land. But it was not a happy country, because the people worshiped idols.

And all did not go well with the family of Israel: the father and the two sons died. After their deaths, the mother, whose name was Naomi, was very lonely, and decided to return to Bethlehem. And, also, she had heard the famine there was ended.

The sons’ wives wanted to go with her. Their names were Ruth and Orpah, and they had been very good to Naomi. So the three women started out on the joey.

But Naomi thought the young women would not be happy in another land, and said they should stay in Moab with their own people. She asked the Lord to reward them for their kindness to her, and kissed them goodbye.

So Orpah stayed in Moab. But Ruth loved Naomi still more, and she had learned of the true God, Who was honored at Bethlehem, and she was willing to leave her own people. She begged earnestly to go with Naomi. She said,

“Thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God.”

Then Naomi took Ruth along with her. We are not told how they traveled, but we suppose they walked, for they were poor. And we do not know how many miles they had to go, but it must have been a journey of several days at least, and over rough, hilly roads.

At last, they safely reached Bethlehem, and Naomi again, was with her people who were surprised to see her.

Find Bethlehem on a map of Palestine. It is south of Jerusalem, and Moab was east and south of the Dead Sea.

Note: There would have been no fane in Israel if the people had obeyed God’s words, but after they were sorry for their evil ways, God again blessed them with plenty for all (Deut. 28:11,12).

ML 09/04/1938

The Faithful Dog

The shepherd-dog has been sent after the flock of sheep and goats, and now he is bringing them home. They run in front of him because they are afraid of him, nevertheless he will bring them to their shepherd, and the place of pasture the shepherd has for them.

How different this is from the way the Lord Jesus does with His sheep. He goes before them, as He knows the way and He leads them. If we are His sheep, and we follow Him, we shall be led in paths of righteousness, and we shall have a happy path, and shall be to God’s glory, pleasing Him in all our ways. We shall also be able to say,

“The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures. He teadeth me beside the still waters” Psalms 23:1,2.

That would be a good and happy place for the sheep, and it is such a place the Lord ever leads His own, if they are willing to follow Him.

On the other hand, there are those who do not love the voice of the Lord Jesus, they do not know Him, and they like to follow in the paths of sin, and thus they reap bad results.

Dear children, do not rest till you know the Lord Jesus as your Saviour and Shepherd, and then seek to follow Him closely, and you will not only please Him, but your path will be one of happiness.

“I GIVE UNTO THEM ETERNAL LIFE; AND THEY SHALL NEVER PERISH, NEITHER SHALL ANY MAN PLUCK THEM OUT OF MY HAND.” John 10:28.

ML 09/11/1938

"That Sir, Is My Dear Friend"

A little Indian boy, living in an old hut, was visited by a Christian who asked if there was anything he could do to relieve his wants. The poor boy replied,

“Nothing, sir, I am very happy. Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, died for my sins; and I trust only in Him.” When asked if he found comfort in his Bible, he replied,

“That, sir, is my dear friend. Last year I went to visit my sister, two hundred miles up the lake. When I was half way back, I remembered I had left my Bible. I turned directly round; and myself and my canoe were nine days tossing on the lake before I reached the house. But I got my friend at last; and I never mean to part with it till I am dead; and then, sir, I want you to give it away, so that it may do good to others.”

I wonder how many of our little readers can say, with this clear little Indian boy, that

“THE BIBLE IS MY DEAR FRIEND”?

We like to have a dear friend near us, and to hear that one speak to us, and if the Bible is “MY DEAR FRIEND” will I not read it often to hear it speaking to me? It is God’s message to me telling out all His thoughts concerning His beloved Son, and the greater our love for the blessed Lord, the greater will be our love for that Bible which the little Indian boy could call “MY DEAR FRIEND,”

The Bible tells us ALL may come,

And drink at mercy’s stream;

That Jesus soon will share His Home

With all who trust in Him.

“From a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” 2 Timothy 3:15.

ML 09/11/1938

Rosa's Message

Rosa ran across the street to a rough-looking man, who sat on the cold stones alone, dejected and miserable-looking. Raising her bright blue eyes, she looked into his face, and said,

“Poor man, I am sorry for you, can I do anything to help you?”

The child’s sweet voice fell strangely on the ear of that hardened sinner, so accustomed to loud, harsh words, but so seldom to words like Rosa’s. He looked upon the child, and said in dismal tones,

“I am without a home or a friend on earth, child.”

“God will be a Friend to you—He loves you,” said Rosa, softly.

The drunkard held out his trembling hand towards the child, and she bent down and kissed it. It was all that she could do, dear child, to speak a kind, loving word, and to couple with it a token of her love for the friendless, homeless man. But it was enough. That act of love reached his heart, and softened it. That word of Gospel grace reached his soul, and God owned it, and blessed it to his conversion.

Years passed on. A silvery-haired, patriarchal-looking man stood addressing the children of, a Sunday school one afternoon, and finished his discourse by telling he children to miss no opportunity of speaking a kind word, or doing a good deed, for, said he,

“It was a word spoken to me by a dear child, when I was friendless and homeless, that God used to save me.”

When the stranger had finished, and the children had gone, a lady walked up to the aged Christian, and, holding out her hand toward him, said,

“Sir, do you know me?” He looked at her for a moment, and then, clasping both her hands in his, while the tears flowed from the eyes of both, he said,

“Yes, it was the word spoken by you, when a child, that God used to bring me to Himself.”

How vast a work a saved child may do. A word spoken from a tender heart, filled with God’s compassion for sinners, will often reach the hardened heart. A kind act done for Jesus’ sake, may be the honored messenger of leading a soul to God. Saved children can do a great work for God and eternity.

Reader, are you saved? If so, what are you doing to bring sinners to the Saviour?

You cannot help others out of the mire until your own feet are on the Rock. You must be saved yourself, and on the way to glory, before you can lead others to Christ.

“Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee.” Mark 5:19.

ML 09/11/1938

Bob's First Bet

Be sure your sin will find you out, boys,” said the old Christian postman as he passed a group of schoolboys arranging a “bet” by the roadside.

“I’m sure if your parents knew you were spending your money in that way they would be very much displeased.”

The boys separated half ashamed, and more than half afraid they might be found out. There is always a fear in wrongdoers, and especially in the first stage of the path of sin before the conscience is hardened.

Bob Asher hid his “bet slip” in the playground, where his sister found it, and knowing what it meant, brought it to him. When Bob saw he was found out, his countenance fell, and he made a clean breast of the whole affair to his parents. That incident of early school-days left a lasting impression on the boy’s mind, and taught him the bitterness of having a bad conscience, through doing that which he knew to be wrong.

Bob is a Christian young man, saved by grace and serving the Lord Jesus, and often tells, when warning others of the deceitfulness of sin, that first experience he had of the misery of the way of transgressors, when he made his first and last bet, and was found out.

“Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men. Avoid it, pass not by it, turn from it, and pass away,” Proverbs 4:14,15.

ML 09/11/1938

A Brave Schoolboy

Down the hillside a torrent of rain poured the whole morning, encircling our school, and flooding the road for half a mile below. Some of the smaller children had to be carried to school by their parents, and others took off their shoes and stockings to wade. One tiny girl in crossing fell, and a great cry arose that she would be drowned. A brave boy threw off his bag and books, and wading into the deep water, lifted the little girl, bearing her in his arms to the school door. We all cheered him and next week he was presented with a watch. Who do you think made the presentation? The little girl whose life he saved.

So, those Jesus saves give themselves to Him.

“My sheep hear My voice, and I know there, and they FOLLOW ME,” John 10:27.

ML 09/11/1938

In a Harvest Time

Ruth, chapters 2:3,4

It was just at the beginning of the cutting of the barley grain that Naomi and Ruth came to Bethlehem. In those days there were no big machines for harvesting grain; men cut the stalks down with scythes; and others gathered them and tied them in bundles. So many hands were needed for the work, and women also helped.

There was a law in Israel, given by God, that when they cut their fields they should let those who were too poor to have fields of their own, gather up any bundles that were dropped, or the stalks which were missed, and have the grain for their food (Lev. 19:9; Deut. 24:19).

Ruth must have heard of that law for she said to Naomi that she would go to the fields and try to gather some grain for them, as they were very poor. Picking up the scattered stalks of grain in the hot sunshine would not be easy work, but Ruth was willing to do it. She came to a field owned by Boaz, a well-known man of Bethlehem, and gathered the stalks left by his reapers.

When Boaz saw the strange young woman in his field, and learned she was Ruth, the daughter in law of Naomi, he spoke very kindly to her, because he had heard of her leaving her own land to come with Naomi, and of her kind help to her, and of her belief in the true God. Boaz knew well about God’s love and power, for his father, Salmon, had been one of those who had come across the Jordan River when God divided the waters. And his mother was Rahab, who had been saved from the house on the wall of Jericho (Joshua 6:25; Ruth 4:21).

Boaz told Ruth that the Lord would reward her because she trusted Him, and he said she could gather grain in his field each day; he also invited her to eat the noon lunch with him and his helpers, and gave her grain ready beaten out to carry to Naomi. Also, he spoke to his reapers to let some stalks fall on purpose for Ruth to gather.

So each night Ruth had grain to carry home to Naomi. They could cook it whole, or grind it for flour.

After the harvest, Boaz helped Naomi and Ruth much more. He bought back their land, which had been lost by the going to Moab, and Ruth became his wife. Theirs must have been a happy home for all trusted the Lord.

The story of Ruth is one everyone enjoys, because of her love, kindness, and humbleness.

The names of Boaz and Ruth are in the New Testament, for it was of their family that the Lord Jesus came, and to that same city of Bethlehem (Matt. 1:5, and 2:1).

ML 09/11/1938

Books of the Bible

In Genesis the world began;

‘Twas then that God created man.

In Exodus the law was given,

As Israel’s guide from earth to Heaven.

Leviticus, from Levi’s name,

Tribe from which the priesthood came.

Then Numbers teaches to obey,

And walk in God’s most holy way.

Deuteronomy, which means “twice told,”

The truth once learned must ne’er grow old.

Then Joshua came, in Moses’ place

When law had failed, God brought in grace.

He next by Judges Israel ruled;

His love toward them never cooled.

And then, the story sweet of Ruth,

Foreshadows very precious truth.

ML 09/11/1938

"A Good Time"

How the children delight to go into the country and get a ride in the hay wagon, and wade through the running stream, and enjoy the beautiful scenery, trees, flowers and the lovely refreshing fruits in all their varieties.

I wonder how many of my young readers, who enjoy these things, think of the One “who giveth us richly all things to enjoy”? I fear many take all these things, and have what they call “A good time”, and very seldom, if ever, think of the Creator. May you be enabled to see His all-wise handiwork wherever you may look, and adore Him for it.

You may say, “I see thorns and thistles growing, and many other such things that are a nuisance. Did God give us these things?”

Yes, God’s Word lets us know that He sent these things on account of our sin. When Adam disobeyed God, and wanted a higher place than God had given to him, which was sin, then God sent all the pests as punishment, and thus His beautiful and fair creation was spoiled.

Let us remember, God did not stop there; such things may prevent us from settling down here as if everything was all right, but He has also shown us that sin put us at a distance from Him because He is holy.

There was no hope ever to deliver ourselves from such a condition so God sent His Son, the Only One who was able to enter into the full results of sin, and rise triumphant out of it all, to deliver all who would put their trust in Him, He then gives us to share with His all that belongs to Him in that bright scene above. It is only those who will accept Him as their Saviour that will get the benefit.

May you dear children, as you enjoy the country, think of these things.

“O LORD HOW MANIFOLD ARE THY WORKS, IN WISDOM HAST THOU MADE THEM ALL.” Psalms 104:24.

ML 09/18/1938

Who is the Seeker?

Walking one afternoon, I noticed a clergyman coming towards me.

“Perhaps he will offer me a tract,” I thought; but as he passed me he said, in a low, deep voice,

“Seek God!”

I walked on, thinking of those words. Were they right? Could I, in my lost condition, seek God? Could the lost sheep find its way back to the fold? if so, then no need for the shepherd to go and seek it. And what need for a man who loses his way to cry out, as many have wisely done, “Lost! Lost!” if he could find his way home again?

“No, we are all, by nature, lost, and unable to seek God apart from His grace, for it is the Holy Spirit who shows us we are lost. So I thought it would have been better if he had said,

“The Lord is seeking you!”

But I am very thankful to tell you, my dear young readers, that the Lord has sought and found me. Can you say so too?

“He sought me, and He found me; Yes, Christ has done it all!”

“There is none that seeketh after God.” Romans 3:11.

“The Son of man is come to seek and save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10.

ML 09/18/1938

Little Jennie's Faithfulness

‘Twas little Jennie, and she sat

Upon a heap of hay,

Beneath the shadow of a tree

And read the “Peep of Day.”

The blackbird sang his merry song

Above her curly head,

And hopping boldly at her feet

Was little robin red.

But Jennie did not care to hear

The merry blackbird sing,

Nor watched the robin redbreast smooth

His pretty shiny wing.

For bending o’er her book she read,

Of Jesus in the sky,

And how He left His glory bright,

For sinful man to die.

The aged gardener working near

Would often look that way,

And wondered why Miss Jennie loved

Her reading more than play.

At length he close and closer drew,

And, “Little Miss,” said he

“You have a pretty book; I wish

You’d read a bit to me.”

And little Jennie’s eyes of blue

They sparkled as she said,

“I’ll read about the death of Christ,

And how He left the dead.”

“The death of Christ?” the gardener asked;

“First tell me, who was He?”

Said Jennie, “Don’t you know the Lord,

Who died for you and me?”

“Ah, miss, I never went to school,”

The poor old man replied;

“It seems as if I’d heard His name,

But nothing else beside.”

The tears came into Jennie’s eyes,

And, “O, how sad!” she said;

“What! have you not in all your life

The Holy Bible read?”

“No; I was never taught at all”

The aged gardener sighed;

“A single word I could not speak

When both my parents died.”

“O, dear!” said Jennie; “if you like

I’ll come here every day,

And sit beneath this shady tree

And teach you, if I may.”

“Come, sit beside me on the grass,

And let us now begin

To read about the Lamb of God,

Who took away our sin.”

With many thanks the gardener sat,

The gentle girl beside,

And heard her tell of Jesus’ love,

So boundless, deep and wide.

And when she closed her pretty book

He scarce a word could speak;

His heart was full of thought, and tears

Were on his withered cheek.

And often as he worked next day,

Across the field he’d look

To see if little Jennie kind

Was coming with her book.

She came at last—that happy child—

At summer morning bright,

Plucking the king-cups in her way,

And pink-edged daisies white.

And down again they sat and read;

And all the summer long

He listened to that pleasant voice,

As sweet as wild birds’ song.

And he would talk of God and heaven—

Of Jesus and His love,

And how he learned to know of Christ

Who lives for him above.

“That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; ... ..and to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge.” Eph. 3:17,19.

“Be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.” 1 Corinthians 15:58.

ML 09/18/1938

A Little Girl's Song

Meg and other poor children from a crowded street played in a vacant lot.

One day a kind man came by and talked with the children and asked if they would like to learn a song. It was not often these boys and girls had anyone show an interest in them, and they were pleased to repeat after him the words of a song, and soon knew the tune.

As Meg ran home she was singing the words she had just heard:

“There is rest for the weary, There is rest for you!”

She passed a door where a poor lame woman, called Nan, was sitting.

“What is that you say, child? A rest? Where is it? how could I get there?” Poor Nan had known little of rest in her hard life.

But Meg could not tell her where to get “the rest”, and went on to her own home.

The man came again to teach the children, and that time sang of a beautiful city. Meg could not listen to all he said, because she had the care of her baby sister, who cried. She pushed the baby’s cart along the street home, singing what she could of the pretty tune. Again the poor woman stopped Meg to learn if she had heard where “the rest” was.

Still Meg did not know, but she sang what she could remember of the new song:

“Beautiful Zion, built above

Beautiful City, that I love.”

But Meg could not tell where the fair city was. However, they both liked the pretty tunes and became good friends.

It was not long after this that a sister of the man who had talked with the children came to the playground, and Meg asked her if she could please come to tell the neighbor about the place to get “rest”.

The lady went with Meg to see old Nan, and gently told her that it was not a place on earth to go to, but, better far, the Lord Jesus was Himself the rest for every weary heart. And that He had said,

“Come unto Me, all ye that labor, and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:23.

Nan had lived without thought of God since childhood, but now she eagerly listened to the story of His love in sending His Son, and of the Lord Jesus giving His life on the cross to save sinners. And the poor woman simply trusted to that wondrous love.

After that, the children went to Nan’s room and sat there when the lady came, and she taught them many songs and stories of the Lord Jesus. They often sang of the city where all who trust Jesus will be.

So you see how even a little girl helped to tell one who did not know of the love of the Lord Jesus. Perhaps you know, not part, but all of many pretty hymns, and could sing them to cheer someone, for God is ever ready to bless.

ML 09/18/1938

A Boy at the Tabernacle

1 Samuel 3

Samuel was a boy of Israel who, when very young, was taken by his parents to Shiloh and left in the care of Eli, the Priest of God. because they loved the Lord and wanted their child to serve Him. They must have missed their little boy very much, for they did not see him often, but came each year to bring their gifts at the feast time.

We do not read what Samuel learned to do, only that he opened the doors in the mornings. And as Eli was old and growing blind, even a small boy could help by leading him about, and doing as he directed.

One night after Samuel had gone to bed, he heard his name called; he supposed Eli wanted him and ran quickly to his bed. But Eli had not called and told Samuel to lie down again.

Twice more Samuel heard his name called, and each time he went promptly to Eli. Then Eli said that it was the Lord who had called, and he told Samuel to answer, “Speak, Lord, for thy servant heath.”

So the boy went again to his bed. Soon he heard, “Samuel, Samuel.” He answered, “Speak, for thy servant heareth.”

The Lord did speak to Samuel, and told him that trouble would come to the sons of Eli, because they were doing such wicked ways. Samuel did not like to tell Eli the sad message, but when Eli asked, he told him all God had said.

We are not told how old Samuel was at this time, but perhaps about twelve years, for he is called, a child. Afterward the Lord talked more to Samuel of what he should tell the people, and Samuel “let none of His words fall to the ground” that means he listened carefully, and did as God said.

It was very many years ago that God called to Samuel. But He still knows the names of boys and girls, and we have His words in our Bibles. He calls to all by His Spirit for “whosoever will” to believe in Him. When we hear or read His words let us obey promptly as the boy Samuel.

Do you know what Samuel’s mother made and took to him each year? (1 Samuel 2:19).

ML 09/18/1938

"Can't You Talk?"

Can’t you talk?” Surely a fine noble-looking dog like this one would have many pleasant conversations with his pretty winsome little mistress. Even kitty would express its devotion in words, too.

Although God has withheld speech from our pets, He has bestowed especially upon the dog, such faithfulness to and trust in his master, that man is put to shame. Whoever saw a dog that considered himself too intelligent to serve his master? No, the better clog he is, the better he learns his master’s desires and tries to please him.

We in our natural state can know God only as our Creator, Sustainer and Judge. To any person who does not know Jesus Christ as his Saviour and Lord, the question in the title may be addressed: “Can’t you talk?”

If you do not know the Lord Jesus as your Saviour, you do not desire to talk with Him, because of His holy character; but He longs to give you eternal life, if you will only confess your sins and take refuge in Christ.

Do hasten this moment to accept God’s gracious, loving provision for your hopeless condition.

“THE GIFT OF GOD IS ETERNAL LIFE THROUGH JESUS CHRIST OUR LORD.” Rom. 6:23.

Having been made a new creation in Christ Jesus through believing in Him, we can indeed talk intimately with the Lord Jesus and with God our Father. Let us thank God often, and present our requests to Him.

ML 09/25/1938

Wise Little Animals

Some men were traveling in eastern Africa by the Blue Nile River, where the rocky banks were so steep, no one would dare to climb them.

On those great rocks they saw some small animals, quiet, as though enjoying the sunshine. But, at once, they saw the men, and giving sharp squeals, they instantly ran and disappeared in the cracks and holes between the big rocks.

The little creatures had gone so quickly that the men could scarcely describe them, except to say they were of a brown color, and like little fat dogs. The guide told them they were conies.

These little animals are not found in all lands, but are in parts of Asia and Africa. They have no way to fight an enemy, and are very afraid of other animals, or of the great eagles which often take larger animals than they. So they never venture far from their homes in the rocks, and at any alarm, swiftly hide in the rocks.

One of the men who knew the Bible verses about the conies said that seeing these proved to him how very true were the Bible words about these small animals:

“The conies are but a feeble folk, yet make their houses in the rock.” Prov. 30:26 and, “The rocks are a refuge for the conies.” Psa. 104:18.

Only by blasting the big rocks could those conies have been found.

The food of the conies is grass and plants, and their feet are so shaped to easily run among rocks. God has fitted all creatures for their special places and given them the instinct to protect themselves. And He says of the conies that they are little, but “exceeding wise”.

We learn from the conies, for we too are feeble, and could not endure the judgment of God against sin, nor fight the enemy, Satan. But Christ is spoken of as our Rock and refuge. If wise, we will trust, or hide, in Him.

“The Lord is my rock....and my refuge.” 2 Sam. 22:2,3.

The conies are a “feeble folk”,

But make “the rocks” their home;

Whatever dangers are abroad,

To them they cannot come.

The beasts go forth to seek their prey

The lion leaves his lair,

But in the rocks all safely hid,

They cannot reach them there.

The thunders overhead may roll,

The lightnings flash and kill,

Within their rocky, refuge home,

The conies fear no ill.

Like them I am a feeble one,

Yet hid in Christ the Rock;

I fear no mighty roaming foe,

Nor coming judgment’s shock.

ML 09/25/1938

Old Dan

Little Annie Gale knew the Saviour. She really knew Him in her heart. She had, in her simple faith, seen Him as it were dying on the cross for her sins, and now in the same way she saw Him seated up there in heaven on His Father’s throne.

Her deep, sincere desire was now to please that dear Saviour in her everyday life. She knew that from ups there where He is, He saw her all day long, heard all she said, and knew all her thoughts. So she wanted to think, and say, and do what He could approve of.

One morning she was made quite sad. A man had called at her father’s house and had laughed at the idea of Annie being converted. Such a good little child as she was, he said, didn’t need such a thing. That would do for “old Dan,” he said. If Dan should be converted and become good, then he would believe there was some reality in believing in Jesus.

Then Annie went to her room, and, falling on her knees, she said,

“Lord Jesus, this man does not believe in Thee, and he does not believe that Thou art really my Saviour. He does not believe there is this real tie between Thee and my soul; but he says if old Dan turned to Thee and was made a good man, then he would believe there is reality in Thee. O Lord Jesus, convert old Dan, that they may believe on Thee.”

Having thus poured out her heart to the Lord Jesus, she went straight to old Dan’s house. Now old Dan was well known to be the very crossest man in the village. He was a wheelwright, and as he worked in his yard, he growled and grumbled all day long. No poor woman ever came in that yard to get some shavings for the fire, and no boy dared creep in there for a basket of chips. No one came near old Dan save those who must have his work.

This morning he was at his work, bending at his saw, when a pleasant little voice said,

“Good morning, Dan! Please, Dan, I want to speak to you, and I am sure you won’t mind; will you?”

That little voice made Dan look up, and so sweet it was that he forgot to scowl. It was long since any one had approached him in that fashion, and he could not resent it; so he sat down as good-humoredly as such a man was capable of, to hear what the sweet little girl had to say.

“Dan,” she said, “the man at our house says that if Jesus could change you, he would believe that there is reality in Jesus. Now I know that no matter how wicked and hard your life has been, Jesus loves you, for He died an awful death on the cross to save you and me; and, Dan, He wants you as well as me. He wants to forgive your sins as well as mine. O Dan, I know He loves you, and I wish you believed it and began to love Him too.”

Poor old Dan! Such words were not what he looked for. They seemed to come from another world. They were from the lips of a little child, but there was a power in them which broke the hard crust of his heart, and tears began to run thick and fast down his wrinkled cheeks.

“Don’t be sorry, Dan,” pleaded the gentle voice; “though we have sinned I know God loves us, for He sent Jesus into the world to die for us.”

But the fact had reached Dan’s heart, and it had broken it, and he wept tears of repentance. Then he thought, If Jesus has died for my sins, then that settles it; that saves me; yes, I see it, God loves me, even me, a hard old sinner. And he began to praise God for His wonderful love and grace.

Annie ran home, and finding the man, she said,

“Now, sir, you must believe in Jesus for He has changed old Dan.”

The message was received with a smile of incredulity, but the little messenger only replied,

“Well, you’ll see.”

And he did see. And so did everybody else in that place see. They saw that old, hard, frowning face turn to joy and gladness; they saw the ill-tempered old man become so kind that everybody found a friend in him; and when you passed the place where he worked you could often hear him singing about the wondrous love of God, and the value of the blood of Jesus.

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Tim. 1:16.

“The blood of Jesus Christ His Son, cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7.

ML 09/25/1938

Praise

Jesus, Lord, almighty Saviour,

Now we sing to Thee;

To thy name, O tender Shepherd,

Praise and glory be!

Thou, O Lord! art our Salvation,

Thou our Strength and Song;

Thou hast saved us, Thou hast bought us,

Thou art great and strong.

So we bless Thee and we praise Thee,

Praise Thee and adore;

Glory be to Thee Lord Jesus,

Now and evermore!

ML 09/25/1938

The Ark of God in Battle

1 Sam. 4

The most precious thing in all Israel was the Ark of God which they had kept in the Tabernacle several hundred years. It was a chest of wood covered inside and out with gold. On the golden cover were figures in pure gold having gold wings. But it was not the gold which made this most precious, but because there God showed His glory and spoke to them, and there the blood was sprinkled each year to show the sacrifice for their sins had been made. And also in the Ark were kept the words of God written clown by Moses and Joshua.

This Ark was to be most carefully kept to teach them that God was holy. But many did not think of God’s words, even the men who helped in the Tabernacle were doing evil.

Because of these sins God let a strong enemy come to fight Israel. Then they said if they had the Ark with them in battle they could drive the enemy away. So they sent to Shiloh for the Ark. When it was brought into the camp, they all shouted with joy.

The enemy heard the shouting, and, when they learned the cause, were much afraid, for they knew of the Ark, perhaps, how it had been carried around Jericho and the high walls had fallen. They spoke of how God had taken Israel out of slavery in Egypt. Yet their captains would not honor God, but told the soldiers to fight harder than ever against Israel.

After the Ark had been taken to the battle, Eli, the priest of God, who war very old, sat at the gate of Shiloh to hear what news would come. He was anxious about the Ark for God had not said it should be taken to the battle.

At last a man came running: he had torn his clothes and put earth on his head, which was their way to show great trouble or sorrow. All the people cried when they saw him and heard his sad news. He told Eli that Israel had lost the battle, that his sons and many more. were dead, and that the Ark had been carried away by the enemy.

When Eli heard that the Ark had been taken, he was so grieved, he fell from his seat and died. He had been the judge, as well as the priest of Israel many years. He loved the Lord but had not kept his sons from sin, and when he did speak to them to do right, they would not listen, so this trouble came, as God had told Samuel to warn them.

There was a baby boy born at this time whose mother was so grieved for the Ark, she named the baby Ichabod, which means “the glory is gone.” We do not have a golden Ark, but we know of the Lord Jesus who came to earth to show God’s glory, and we have God’s words in our Bibles. But if we are careless of Him, and want to do our own wrong ways, we too will have sorrow.

We will hear more about the Ark next time.

ML 09/25/1938

Answers to Bible Questions for August

“The Children’s Class”

1.“Howbeit, when he,” etc. John 16:13.

2.“He that bath,” etc. 14:21.

3.“If ally man,” etc. 12:26.

4.“I have given,” etc. 17:14.

5.“So when they,” etc. 21:15.

6. “Then came Jesus,” etc.19:5.

7. “It was that Mary,” etc.11:2.

Bible Questions for October

“The Children’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in Acts, chapters 15-28

1.Write in full the verse containing the words, “That thou shouldest know his will.”

2.Write in full the verse containing the words, “So that I might finish my course with joy.”

3. Write in full the verse containing the words, “Inheritance among them which arc sanctified.”

4.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Dwelleth not in temples made with hands.”

5.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ.”

6.Write in full the verse containing the words, “The name of the Lord Jesus was magnified.”

7.For what purpose was it that “God at the first did visit the Gentiles?

Answers to Bible Questions for August

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

1.The children of God that were scattered abroad. Jno. 11:52.

2.By our bearing much fruit. John 15:8.

3.Till He comes. John 21:22.

4.John 18:20.

5.God’s Word. Jno. 17:17.

6. Tribulation. Jno. 16:33.

7. Christ. Jno. 14:6.

Bible Questions for October

The Young People’s Bible Class The Answers are to be found in Acts, chapters 15-28

1.What verse shows the wives and children included?

2.May a servant of the Lord accept creature comforts from one who is not a believer?

3.Who said, “Whose I am and Whom I serve”?

4.What did Paul testify to both Jews and Greeks?

5.What was the result of “searching the Scriptures daily?”

6.“What must I do to be saved?”

7.Is there any difference between Jew and Gentile as to the terms of their salvation?

ML 10/02/1938

My Pet Dog Prince

I spent my happy childhood under the care and love of a Christian father and mother. I may say, grandfather and grandmother also, for although they both died when I was a child of seven, I never can forget some of the words they spoke to me, or the beautiful old age they had, all so loving-and full of joy.

I had a pet dog whose name was “Prince,” and being an only child, with no brothers or sisters, Prince was my playmate. I spent many an hour playing with and talking to Prince; who seemed to understand all that I said to him, and to take a real interest in all that I did.

One day I was sitting with Prince by my side, and the thought came into my mind—where will Prince be when he dies? I ran off to ask my mother, and she took me up on her knee and told me the difference between my pet dog and me. I remember with what eagerness I listened to my dear mother’s story, and how I learned that day, that I, having a soul and spirit, would live forever, and not cease to be, like a dog when he dies.

That conversation I never forgot, and young though I was, I believe I was then convinced of my need of a Saviour, and was never really at rest after that, until I came to Jesus and believing in Him was saved. That one thought of having something in me that would always live, and never cease to be, kept me thinking about God and the great eternal world often during my early years.

One day Prince died, and I cried for the loss of my play-mate, but I remembered that when Prince died he was done with, and had no life beyond, as I would have after death. I lost my mother, and two years later my dear father went to be with Christ. I was then left an orphan in the world. Life did seem a blank to me, and often I sat on my parents’ grave, and wished I could join them in their happy home above.

That early lesson of my childhood came back to me with great power, and with it the question, Where will you live forever? I knew that saved ones go to God’s holy heaven, as my mother had often told me. Although familiar with the Gospel story from my earliest years, yet I had no personal assurance that I was Christ’s. The day on which I was brought to a decision, will ever be a memorable one to me. It was the anniversary of my mother’s death, and I was looking over some of her gifts to me when a child, and found among them several leaflets and papers in her handwriting. Everything belonging to her was sacred to me, for the remembrance of her happy life was ever with me. On a slip of paper she had written the words,

“No refuge, no safety in self could I see,

Jeltovah-Tsidkenu my Saviour must be.”

I learned afterward it was part of the hymn written by Robert Murray M.’Cheyne of Dundee, telling of his conversion in early years. I had tried to find rest but it was in “self,” and it had failed. I had tried to live a Christian, but in my own righteousness. There I saw how my mother confessed her trust in Jehovah-Tsidkenu—”The Lord is our righteousness” alone. I wept at the remembrance of her, and kneeling down there all alone, tinder the eye of God, I accepted Christ as my Saviour, and yielded myself up to Him, to be His then and forever. I had no shadow of doubt but that He received me, and that I was saved then and there. I commend the same Saviour to you with all my heart .

“Him that cometh to Me, I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

ML 10/02/1938

Saved by Grace Alone

A bright little school-boy received a nice text card sent him by his aunt who was a lover of the Lord. Jesus, bearing the words,

“BY GRACE ARE YE SAVED.”

He had just been converted at some children’s meetings held in the town where he lived. So when he received the card, he at once replied, telling his aunt of his conversion, and how happy he was, and adding the following lines, which are very simple, and sweetly express the faith of one who had just come to the Saviour. What do you think of them, reader? Can you say as much of yourself?

“I am not saved by ‘doing,’

My ‘works’ receive no place;

But I delight in telling

That I am saved by grace.

And when in heavenly glory,

I see the Saviour’s face,

I’ll tell the same glad story,

That I was saved by grace:”

Charlie hung his text card on the wall, and people who came into the house, went forward and read it. This gave Charlie a nice opportunity of telling how God saved him, and of repeating his verses.

Not long after, his mother became anxious about her soul, and she also was “saved by grace.” A meeting was begun in their house, and for many a Thursday evening, the grand old story of Jesus and His love was told out there, And Charlie lead the singing, making-melody in his heart to the One who saved him lay His grace. How grand it is to be saved in early years, and to give the best of one’s days to the Lord Jesus, and to His service.

“By grace are ye saved thy:m.101 faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” Ephesians 2:8,9.

ML 10/02/1938

Autumn

The autumn has come, and the beautiful roses

Are gradually falling and fading away:

The leaves and the blossoms, now falling, discloses

That all that is beautiful sinks to decay.

The birds of the woodlands, whose songs have so gladdened

Our hearts, as we wandered through meadow and lane,

Wilt soon take to flight—but while we are saddened,

We know that in Spring they are coming again.

Mid all that is changing—in gladness and sorrow—

Believers in Him who is now on the throne,

Wait joyfully still for that precious tomorrow,

That moment when Jesus returns for, His own.

“YET A LITTLE WHILE, AND HE THAT SHALL COME WILL COME, AND WILL NOT TARRY.” Hebrews 10:37.

ML 10/02/1938

The Ark Returned to Israel

1 Samuel, chapter 5 and 6

The Ark of God was taken from Israel to an enemy’s city and set in their heathen temple beside their idol, as though they would worship both.

Their idol, called Dagon is said to have been made with head and hands like a man, and a body like a fish, which shows its how hideous and foolish such images are (Rom. 1:21-24).

The next morning the men of the city came to their temple and found their big idol on the floor before the Ark. They set it back in place, but the next morning when they came it was again on the floor with its head and hands cut off. This frightened the heathen priests and people so that they did not dare go to the temple anymore and sent the Ark to other cities for their land.

But wherever the Ark was taken, in that land God sent sickness to the people, so they decided to return it to Israel. They made a new cart and placed the Ark on it with a box in which were some gold images to make up for their wrong in tang the Ark. Then they got two cows to draw the cart, keeping their little calves shut up at home. It is not natural for a mother animal to go away from its young, and besides these cows had never had a yoke on, so were not trained to draw a cart. So the men said if the cows would draw the Ark straight to the land of Israel by themselves, they would know that it was of God.

The two cows started at once along the road that led to the border of Israel, and did not once turn aside, but walked long, which means, crying, for their calves. They kept on till they came to a field where men of Israel were cutting grain and stopped by a big stone. The men of Israel were greatly pleased when they saw the Ark once more. They took it from the cart and offered sacrifice in thanks to God.

Men of the enemy had followed after the cows to see where they would go. They should have worshiped the true God of heaven when they saw the dumb animals go straight to Israel, hut they returned at once to their land and idols.

The Ark was not put into the Tabernacle then, but was kept many years in a house, for the enemy seem to have been camped at Shiloh 1 Samuel 17:1,2 and 10:5).

ML 10/02/1938

The Song of the Sparrow

I’m only a little sparrow,

A bird of low degree;

My life is of little value,

But there’s One who cares for me.

I have neither barn nor store-house

And I neither sow nor reap;

God gives me a sparrow’s portion,

But never a seed to keep.

if my meal is sometimes scanty,

Close picking makes it sweet;

I’ve always enough to feed we,

And life is more than meat.

I know there are many sparrows—

All over the world we’re found,

But the Father in heaven knoweth,

When one of us falls to the ground.

Though small, we’re never forgotton;

Though weak, we’re never afraid;

The Father in heaven keepeth

The life of the creatures He made.

And I fold my wings at twilight,

Wherever I happen to be,

The Father in heaven watcheth,

And no harm can come to me.

I’m only a little sparrow,

A bird of low degree;

But I know my Father loves me,—

Dost thou know His love for thee?

“Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? Fear ye not therefore; ye are of more value than many sparrows.” Luke 12:6, 7.

“CASTING ALL YOUR CARE UPON HIM; FOR HE CARETH. FOR YOU.” 1 Peter 5:7.

ML 10/09/1938

Salvation, Eternal, Present and Free

It was a little girl, a cousin of my own, who was the means of leading me to Jesus. I was staying at my uncle’s farm in a pretty part of the midlands, during my summer vacation. All the day long, I went in for boating, fishing and swimming in the river that ran along the end of his fields, and was enjoying myself, as I thought, immensely. But an incident occurred one day which turned my thoughts to a subject I had not thought much about before. Being very hot, I went in for a bathe, and took cramp. “Unable to move a limb, I sank like a stone, and must have been drowned, but for the aid rendered by a servant from my uncle’s farm, who heard my cry, and came along to the spot just in time to save me alive. I had never been so near death before, never in fact had I thought of it as far as I personally was concerned, or where I would be after. But that narrow escape set me thinking, and brought realities of eternity very near. My uncle and aunt were true Christians, and I have no doubt, had prayed for me, and watched an opportunity to speak to me of Jesus; but they possibly knew that I was very proud, and would resent it, unless the Lord gave a suitable opportunity.

When I got to the farm, still shivering with excitement, my uncle gave me a warm bath, and put me to bed, patting my cheek as he left me to sleep, and saying,

“What a mercy, Walter, you were rescued: you might have been in Eternity.”

That word “Eternity” stuck to me. Next day I was better. My cousin May, a bright little girl of eleven, came up to me as I was going off into the country, and said,

“Cousin Walter, we are going to the tent tomorrow: will you come with me?”

I had heard my uncle and aunt speak of a friend of theirs, an evangelist, who had pitched a tent in a village some miles away, and was preaching in it. Uncle proposed that we should drive across on the Sunday afternoon, and attend the meeting. He had not definitely asked me to go, perhaps he thought it wise to leave it till nearer the time, in case I had some excuse; but May, of her own accord, was the first to invite me, I could not well refuse, and, although I had no particular wish to spend the Sunday evening in that way, I was in a rather religious mood after my late deliverance, so I told my cousin I would go. This pleased her immensely, and she ran into the house to tell her mother, A long drive through a finely wooded country, brought us to the tent, which stood in the corner of a field near to a river. The seats were all filled, and the canvas sides taken down to allow those who sat on the grass outside to hear. My uncle and aunt found seats near to the speaker, and little May—who clung close to me—pointed to a spot on a grassy knoll, where we might sit close enough to hear, yet not to be seen by the preacher.

The address was on “Salvation—eternal, present, and free”; and, although I do not now remember all its points, it showed me that I needed to be saved, and that God had provided salvation for me. I believe it was during the meeting that I trusted myself to Jesus, but it was only on the way home, while uncle was telling me how God saved him thirty years before, that I really saw clearly I was saved, and confessed the Lord. That was a happy day to me,—the beginning of days—for on that day I was born into the family of God. Praise His Name, I am there still, and ever will be. So may you too, for Jesus is still mighty to save.

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31.

ML 10/09/1938

A Sunday School Class

In speaking to some children, I put some questions and received answers as follows: “Why did God’s Son cone into the world?”

“To redeem and save us.”

“What did He do to redeem and save us?”

“He died for our sins on the cross.”

“How do we get the benefit of His death on the cross?”

Here the bright little girl that had given the other answers, rather hung her head, and said under her breath that she didn’t know the answer to that.

Well, my dear young readers, I dare say most of you could give an answer and it would be something like this: “By believing on Him,” and this would be a fine answer, but I will tell you what I told those children. I read to them the fourth-verse of the first chapter of Leviticus:

“And he shall put his hand upon the head of the burnt offering; and it shall be accepted for him to make atonement for him.”

And then I told them that in the days of Moses, people, if they sinned, used to bring a bullock, or a lamb, or a kid, and offer it to the Lord. Its blood was shed, and the person who had sinned and brought this offering had just to lay his hand on the animal’s head, and it was accepted for him. But Jesus Christ has already died on the cross to redeem and save us, and God has raised Him up from the dead and put Him at His own right hand in heaven. Now, God has accepted the offering, and it only remains for us to lay our hands on the head of the offering, each for himself. Do you, dear child, feel the burden of your sins? Christ has offered Himself to God; His precious blood has been shed. Come, then, to God with Christ as your offering, saying not only that

Christ died for sinners, but that “Christ died for me.” He is my offering. Fear then, no longer.

“He shall lay his hand upon the head of the offering and it shall be accepted for him.” Not for someone else, but for him. Rest, dear child, in the work of Jesus, and in the word of God, which says,

“The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us front all sin.” 1 John 1:7.

ML 10/09/1938

Blind Susie

Susie, was 12 years old, but had never been able to see, We who can look around us can little understand what it is never to be able to gaze upon the wonderful works of God on every hand—never to see those by whom we are loved and cared for. But such was the case with little blind Susie.

The first time I saw her she was very sad, and did not wish to talk to me. I tried to gain her interest by telling her about the love of Jesus in conning down into this world to die for sinners, and asked her if she knew that she was a sinner.

She made no reply, and I soon had to leave her.

Some weeks passed before I saw her again, and then it was at a gospel meeting where I noticed her singing at the beginning of the meeting.

After it was over I said to her, “Well, Susie, do you know anything about what Mr. C. has been telling us tonight?”

“Yes,” she replied, “I know that Jesus is my Saviour, and that my sins have been washed away in His precious blood.”

“But how do you know that?” I inquired. A bright smile shone upon her face as she said,

“Jesus did it, God says it, I believe it.”

Little Susie was very happy now that she knew that her sins were forgiven, and that she was saved. She had taken her place before God as a lost sinner, and then had believed His Word.

If you are not saved yet, come to this loving Saviour at once,—He has never turned one away.

ML 10/09/1938

The First King of Israel

1 Samuel, chapter 9 and 10

The people of Israel had lived in the land of Canaan over three hundred years, but had never had a king. They had been directed, first by Joshua, then by the judges given by God. Samuel was the last one of the judges, he was also a prophet and offered the sacrifices. But Samuel was no longer the young boy but an old man, and his sons were not host with the people, which is sad to read, lint it shows us God does not bless children, just because their fathers do right, but they also must obey Him.

The nations who lived around Israel had kings to rule them and lead their armies to war. The people of Israel told Samuel they wanted a king also. They forgot the Lord had cared for them all those years. Samuel told the Lord of their wish, and He said they could have a king, and this is how he was chosen: A rich man of Israel lost his donkeys and sent his son, named Saul, and a servant to find them. They went all around the country but could not find the animals. After three days they came to the city where Samuel was, and he told Saul the donkeys had been found. Then the Lord told Samuel that this was the young man who should be king.

So, before Saul started back to his father’s home, Samuel put oil upon his head, as a sign that he was to be the head over Israel, and told him things which would show Saul that Samuel spoke for God.

Afterward Samuel called the people of Israel together at one place for them to see the one God had chosen for their king. But Saul could not be found, for he did not then want the high place of king. The Lord told Samuel where he was hiding by the baggage, and he was brought out and stood before the great company. They were well pleased when they saw him, for he was a tall fine looking young man, and they all shouted words which have since been used many times for kings, “God save the King!”

Samuel spoke to Saul and the people, for them to “only fear the Lord and serve Him in truth with all your heart, for consider how great things He hath done for you.” 1 Samuel 12:24.

For a time Saul did well as king, and the Lord helped him to save the people from the enemies, but later he became proud and unwise in his acts, and would not do as Samuel told him God wished him to do.

Once Saul forbade the men who were fighting to eat any food all day, so they became very weak. His son Jonathan, who was a brave young man had not heard, this order, and found sonic honey in the woods and ate of it. His father was angry and would have killed him except the people had kept him from doing so. So Saul wanted his unwise order kept, but did not obey God’s words.

ML 10/09/1938

The Sheep

I want to talk to you a little about the picture. It seems to me that the friend who drew it thought more about the lambs and sheep than about the shepherd; but thought there ought to be someone to look after them, so he put a man sitting down, a good way off, and looking half asleep. I am afraid this is too much like we all think of our own “good Shepherd.” We think more of ourselves, and how we take care of ourselves or of one another, than of what it is to belong to the “one flock” of that good Shepherd that never sleeps. He “ne’er forgets the least,” and He holds in His “hand” the lambs as well as the sheep, He “gathers” them with His “arm,” holds them in His “hand,” carries them in His “bosom” or on His “shoulders,” And. does He not love them with His heart? if He does not, I cannot tell why He should say,

“THE GOOD SHEPHERD GIVETH HIS LIFE FOR THE SHEEP.” John 10:11.

May you, dear little readers, and may I, learn more about this Shepherd of the sheep!

My Shepherd is the Lord,

The living Lord who died:

With all things good I ever am

By Him supplied.

ML 10/16/1938

The Gospel Bedspread

This my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found.”

One of the boxes intended for the sick and wounded in the front of the army, contained a beautiful soft bedspread.

“How beautiful! how soft and warm! it will be for the comfort of our soldiers!”

These were our exclamations as we drew it from its hiding place. And it did indeed cause great joy in the hospital and a source of great comfort to many a suffering one.

What? a bedspread doing all this you say? Yes, listen. As we unfolded the spread we found a piece of paper pinned and these words written on it:

“I have prepared this spread for the field hospital thinking it might cover a sick body, as well as speak a good word to the soul. Those Scripture texts are balm for the wounded heart. The Lord bless the dear soldiers among whom I also have a son.”

“Amen,” said we as our tears fell down on the spread. Were these the first tears? No, not the first, nor the hundredth. The spread was, as I learned later on, the work of a widow, wrought with much prayer and many tears.

The spread was put together of many different colored pieces of goods in a very clever and tasteful way. The most remarkable thing about the spread was a good many white pieces of cloth, and on each one was a Scripture text or a verse of some hymn, and all was done so neat and clean, you could see how much pains the one took who made it. On the centerpiece was in large letters.

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners,”

and below that, the publican’s cry:

“God be merciful to me a sinner.”

The upper border, nearest to the eye of the patient, contained a number of texts full of love, comfort and hope. Between the border and the center you could see:

“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.”

“If only all our beds had such spreads,” remarked some of us; “how many of the sick and wounded would be helped and profited!”

A few days later a number of sick arrived, and one of them received this remarkable spread. At first he was too ill to notice what was going on around him. But as he grew stronger, he could be noticed reading the texts carefully. Then he said: “How good that these are here.” “Indeed! and do you know the value of these Scriptures?”

“Yes, thank God, I do!” was his reply.

“Do you know the verse: ‘Thy word is a lamp unto lily feet, and a light unto my path?” Psalms 119:105.

“I have often heard the verse, and it is right here on the spread.”

ML 10/16/1938

"Somebody Wants to Come in"

It was the evening fur the children’s meeting at the Gospel Tent, and the boys and girls were streaming in through the gate in the high black fence by which the tent was surrounded.

Soon the hour arrived and the meeting began. Still, however, the children came in twos and threes, while a little group stood round the entrance watching the others go in, but not entering themselves. Hymns, and prayer being over, up got a kind friend to speak, and then not wishing the meeting to be disturbed by any more late comers, a helper went to the gate and gave a last invitation to the little group standing outside.

“Won’t you come in?” he said. They shook their heads. “Well! it’s your last chance,” he added, and then pointing to a little girl,

“You’ll come in, won’t you?” But she, too, shook her head and said softly, “No!”

The big gate swung on its hinges, and the little group were left outside without even being able to see what was going on inside.

Hardly a minute passed when there was a knock, and then another knock, still louder.

“What do you want?” said the man inside,

“Please, sir, somebody wants to come in!” said a voice.

He opened the door to see who the somebody was, and who do you think he found? Why, the very little girl who had said “No!” so decidedly, not two minutes bore.

What made her change her mind so quickly? It was the door being shut.

I expect some of my young readers are already thinking of a Bible story about the shut door. In Luke 13:24,25, we read:

“Strive to enter in at the strait gate; for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able. When once the Master of the house is risen up, and hath shut to the door, and ye begin to stand without, and to knock at the door, saying, Lord, Lord, open unto us: and He shall answer and say unto you, I know you not whence ye are.” Luke 13:24,25.

The time is soon coming when the opportunity of believing the Gospel and being saved will be gone. When the Lord Jesus rises up and comes into the air for His own people, the Gospel door will be shut.

The little girl missed her chance of the meeting for that evening, but we had more meetings to which she was able to come. If you miss the Gospel offer, and the Lord Jesus comes and has to leave you behind, you will be outside the shut door forever.

O! what a terrible thing that would be. God save all my young, readers from it, and lead them to enter NOW, at once, through the door which stands so widely open. Jesus said,

“I am the door; by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved.” John 10:9.

ML 10/16/1938

A Happy Family

Father and mother were Christians, on their way to heaven. They taught their children in their early days, the Word of God, and one after another trusted in Jesus, and confessed His name.

Three little cousins came to visit them, and also were won for Christ, and went back to their homes to testify for Him. It was a pleasant sight to see that family circle all happy in the love of Christ, and to hear them sing, as they sat together,

Heaven wears a brighter blue,

Earth a robe of sweeter green,

All around, a happy hue,

By my former eyes unseen;

Brighter scenes around me wheel,

Brighter stars around me shine;

Everywhere I only feel,

I am Christ’s, and He is mine.

This was the secret of their joy: they had Christ. Reader, have you Christ? Christ alone can make a happy heart, and a happy home.

“Rejoice in the Lord always; and again I say, Rejoice.” Philippians 4:4.

ML 10/16/1938

A Shepherd Boy of Israel

1 Samuel 16

Many boys of Israel must have tended their fathers’ sheep and goats, for in those lands the people lived in villages and their flocks were fed on the wild lands outside. One boy who did this, named David, became one of the greatest men of Israel. He was a strong, healthy boy and took good care of the sheep. Once a lion came and took a lamb, but David saved the lamb and killed the fierce lion another time a bear took a lamb and again God gave him strength to kill the bear and save the lamb (1 Sam. 17:34,35).

One day Samuel, the prophet of God, came to his father’s house in Bethlehem on a very important errand: the Lord had sent him to anoint one of the sons of this family to be the king of Israel, but Samuel did not know which son would be chosen.

First, the oldest came before him and he thought this fine young man must be the one for king, but the Lord showed him that he was not six more sons were brought in, one by one, but they were not chosen. Then the father said there was one more son, the youngest, David, who was watching the sheep, so David was sent for and came before Samuel. The Lord said to Samuel, “This is he.” So Samuel put the oil on the head of David, which was a custom to show one had been chosen for a special place.

But it was not until David was much older that he was king. He kept on tending his father’s flocks, and must have learned other useful thing’s. He became a very skillful player on the harp, and perhaps often played while the sheep were quietly feeding. He was also learning of the Lord and His words. David was a great grandson of Boaz and Ruth, and he surely would have heard of God’s care for them.

King Saul heard of David’s beautiful music and sent for him to play for him, because at times his evil thoughts greatly troubled him. The music quieted the king and he was well pleased with the young shepherd and kept him with him for a time.

In later years David not only played sweet music but wrote the words of many Hebrew poems and hymns, which with others are in the Bible, called, The Psalms.

One of theses many, many boys and girls have learned to repeat. It begins, “The Lord is my Shepherd”, and shows David’s trust in God to keep him as he had kept the sheep.

Read over the story of David in your Bible and notice the name of David’s father, also see Book of Ruth 4:16:17.

ML 10/16/1938

The Shepherd Psalm

The Lord is my shepherd;

I shall not want.

He maketh me to lie down in green pastures:

He leadeth me beside the still waters.

He restoreth my soul:

He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.

Yea, though I walk through the-valley-of-the-shadow-of-death, I will fear no evil:

For Thou art with me;

Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me.

Thou preparest a table before me in the-presence-of mine enemies:

Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over.

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the-days-of my life:

And I will dwell in the house of the Lord forever.

ML 10/16/1938

Sound Asleep

Our dear little boy has fallen sound asleep after playing till he was tired. How refreshing when wearied to go quietly off to sleep. It is a wonderful provision God has made in order to refresh our bodies.

But for those who are not saved—do not know Jesus as their own Saviour—we wonder how they can lie quietly down and go to sleep, knowing they may waken in hell; or the Lord might come and they would be left behind, and the door of mercy be forever closed against them.

O, dear children, do not delay another day in taking your place before God, a lost sinner, and accepting His precious gift—the Lord Jesus Christ as your Saviour and Redeemer.

There are some precious verses in God’s Word for those who are saved,

“I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep; for Thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety.” Psalms 4:8.

“HE GIVETH HIS BELOVED SLEEP.” Psalms 127:2.

“When thou liest down, thou shalt not be afraid: yea, thou shalt lie down, and thy sleep shall he sweet.” Proverbs 3:24.

O, how blessed to know that whether asleep or awake, all those who belong to Jesus when He conies, will go up with Him to the Father’s house, to be “forever with the Lord.”

Happy children who are waiting

For that bright and joyful day,

Knowing Jesus as their Saviour,

They can watch for Him and say,

“Come, Lord Jesus! come Lord Jesus!

Take Thy little ones away.”

ML 10/23/1938

The Gospel Bedspread

After this patient left the hospital, the occupants of this bed changed oftener. Most all of them read the texts with great interest, and many committed them to memory. Once a young soldier had the bed who tossed day and night on account of severe pain and fever and could not rest. One morning his eye caught that precious verse:

“COME UNTO ME, ALL YE THAT LABOR AND ARE HEAVY LADEN, AND I WILL GIVE YOU REST. TAKE MY YOKE UPON YOU, AND LEARN OF ME; FOR I AM MEEK AND LOWLY IN HEART: AND YE SHALL FIND REST UNTO YOUR SOULS.” Matt. 11:28.

He called the nurse to his bed and cried:

“Rest! where can I find rest, rest for my body and my soul? I am sick and weak in body; you can see that. But I am more than sick, and that you can’t see. I am very unhappy, and don’t know what to do. Tell me, is there real rest for an unhappy heart like mine? Where can I find rest?”

“Don’t you know the way?” asked the nurse, touched by the earnestness of the sick man; “have you never heard of Jesus the Saviour of sinners?”

“I have, but it is long since; tell me of Him, but so simple, as though you were telling it to a little child.”

His request was granted and the life of the Lord and His death were simply told.

The patient listened with the greatest of attention, then asked: “And did He die for my sins also?”

“He surely did. He saw us all in our sins; He pitied us; He loved us and died for us to give us rest, peace and happiness. He would like to make you happy and to save you from eternal ruin.”

“I have never been happy,” said the soldier sadly. “No, never! Oh, if you knew me better you would understand. I have lived a bad, very bad life. I am a great sinner. But is it really true that He died for me?”

“Yes it is true, indeed.

‘This is a faithful saying-and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.’ 1 Tim, 1:15. Is not this plain?”

“I never heard anything like this before. It is too wonderful. I can’t believe it,”

“Yes, it is wonderful. The love of God and of the Lord Jesus Christ passes all knowledge. But I trust that you too will soon be able to realize some of this in your own soul, and find peace.”

“If I only were not so sick and weak,” sighed the young soldier; “but as I am, I cannot, do one thing, not one thing!”

“You have nothing to do, the Lord Jesus has done it all. Listen to His own words: ‘Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth My word, and believeth on Him that sent Me hath everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment; but is passed from death unto life.’ John 5:24. He who hears and believes, possesses.”

With these words I left him, commending him to the Lord, who is ever the best teacher. And, lo, soon after, this poor man found the much desired rest, first for his soul, then for his body also. He left the hospital a different, a happier man.

ML 10/23/1938

The Most Precious Thing

Many years ago, a Hindu convert came to an American missionary to be baptized. Now, it happens sometimes that persons ask to be baptized without being truly converted at all; they merely exchange the profession of one religion for that of another; but I am glad to tell you that this dear Hindu had been really-”saved” (Acts 16:31), and washed front his sins, in the precious, blood of Christ. At his baptism he took the name of Kai Das, which means “the servant of Christ,” and we shall see how well it suited him. It was his delight to serve his blessed Master, and to go about in his native country, preaching the glad tidings of the grace of God.

But traveling there is not so easy as it is here, and especially in the part where he lived it was attended with many dangers. As he was riding along late one evening, on his little pony, six highwaymen attacked him, and asked for his money. He handed them all he had, which was scarcely five annas (about fifteen cents), and they then stripped him of nearly all his clothing. On looking it over, one of them discovered his watch. What a lovely thing! They had never seen one before, and Kai Das was questioned as to its use and its history. After satisfying their curiosity, he quietly remarked,

“The most precious thing I have, you have not found yet.”

Dear children, can you guess what this was? The robbers certainly could not, and they wondered where he kept it!

“Give it at once,” they said.

“Wait a bit first,” he replied, and much to their amazement, he struck up a hymn in their native language. Would you not like to have seen this dear captive, all undisturbed in spirit, singing the Lord’s praises in the midst of these fierce men? It reminds one of the scene in Acts 16; Paul and Silas singing praises to God at midnight in their prison. You might say there was not much in their surroundings to make them happy, and besides, after having “many stripes” laid upon them, their bodily suffering must have been great. Ah! but they possessed the same “precious thing,” which Kai Das spoke of, and that was the secret of their joy!

Well, when the hymn was finished, he went on to tell his captors of the blessed Saviour, who left His Father’s home on high, and came down to this poor world to suffer and to die in the sinner’s stead. His love for sinners had made him willing to undergo all this suffering that they might be saved. Would they all take their place as guilty ones before Him? Then He would receive them, one and all, (see John 3:16, and John 6:37). In a word, Jesus was his precious treasure, and he longed that Jesus might be theirs.

The hearts of the robbers were touched; they restored the stolen goods, and their leader invited Kai Das to his own house. Here he was able to speak to many more about his Master, and we may hope the good seed thus sown brought forth fruit in due time.

And now, dear young reader, let me ask if you have yet responded to the call of the loving Saviour? He stands ready, waiting to receive you. O, come to Him without delay, and you will then own a priceless treasure, which none can ever take from you.

ML 10/23/1938

Left Behind

When I was a little child, I dreamed one night, that I was sitting in the garden waiting for the coming of the Lord Jesus. It seemed to be the day fixed for Him to come for His people, and I wanted to go too. I waited for some time, but could not see Him coming, and, at last, I found out that the Lord had indeed returned and was gone back again, but alas! I was “left behind.” O how sad I felt at the thought of being “left bind,” but someone told me, “He’s coming again tomorrow,” and I was comforted, because there was still hope for me.

Now, dear children, this was only a dream, but it is quite true the Lord Jesus will come in the clouds someday. He has not told us what day, but He has promised to come again, to receive those who love and trust Him, unto Himself.

What a happy day it will be for those who are ready when He comes for them—they shall see Him, and be like Him, and be forever with Him. O how delightful! But how very sad for those who are not ready, they will be “left behind.” How will it be with you? Some of you have fathers and mothers, some have brothers and sisters who are Christians. They will be “caught up’’ to meet Him. Will you be “left behind?”

“Yet a little while, and He that shall come will come, and will not tarry. Hebrews 10:37.

“They that were ready went in with Him to the marriage; and the door was shut.”

“Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour,” Matt. 25:10:12.

ML 10/23/1938

A Giant Soldier

1 Samuel 17

The enemy of Israel came with their tents and camped on a mountain ready for battle. King Saul with the army of Israel camped on another mountain opposite, a valley between them.

But the two armies, did not start a battle, because each day a giant, named Goliath, came out of the enemy’s camp and called for a soldier of Israel to come and fight him alone, and whichever lost, his people should be servants of the other’s people, he said, and not for all to fight.

This big man wore a brass coat and helmet to keep him from being hurt, and carried a great heavy spear, Of course he did not think there was anyone strong enough to kill him, so day after day he stood in front of the army and called. The men of Israel were in terror, not one dared to tight him, although King Saul offered rich rewards to any man who would.

One day David came to bring food to his brothers, who were soldiers in the camp. of Israel, He saw the giant stand calling for someone to fight him, and David spoke to men near him saying this heathen man could not: win over the men of Israel who belonged to the living God.

King Saul heard what David said and sent for him. David said he would go to fight against Goliath. The king answered that David was not able, for he was only a youth. Then David told the king how he had killed the lion and the bear which came after the lambs, and said,

“The Lord that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, He will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine.”

So thee Saul had his own armor put on David and gave him a sword, but David was not trained to use those and he put them aside, and took only his staff and sling, picking up five smooth stones, he started toward the giant.

Goliath had called to Israel for someone for forty days; now when he saw this youth come toward him, he was very angry, as though Israel thought he had no strength, and he called for his idols to curse David. David’s reply was,

“Thou comest to me with sword and spear and shield: I come to thee in the name of the Lord.”

Goliath started toward the brave youth: David quickly put one of the stones in his sling, whirled it swiftly, the small stone striking Goliath in his forehead, and the great giant fell to the ground dead.

When the enemy saw their big soldier was dead, they left their tents and fled. Older boys will be interested to read this story in the Bible. You can learn about the height of Goliath, for a cubit is nearly 1 1/2 feet and a span about 10 inches.

But this story is not to teach how to fight, for since the Lord Jesus came to earth His people are told to be meek and gentle, instead of warlike. But we are to learn from David to have courage, and trust God for whatever we can do for Him.

ML 10/23/1938

The Rock of Gibraltar

Many of the readers of “Messages of the Love of God,” may never have seen even a picture of this wonderful rock that stands so high up, out of the water at the entrance into the Mediterranean Sea.

Many have advertised their business as being “strong as Gibraltar”, but after all, that is not so very strong or secure, for an earthquake could bring it down, and cover it with water. Then, too, there is a time coming when the earth and the works that are therein shall be burned up.

It is indeed good that our salvation is not like even strong Gibraltar, for there would be a time when it would fail and pass away; but Christ is the rock of our salvation, and He abides forever. No change can come to Him, and He has said,

“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me; and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand. My Father, which gave them Me, is greater than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of My Father’s hand.” John 10:27-29.

Are you rejoicing in that blessed, competent Saviour, and can you say,

“He is the One on Whom I am resting?”

If you can, then this scripture shall be true of you.

“Blessed are all they that put their trust in Him.” Psalms 2:12.

“THE LORD IS GOOD, A STRONGHOLD IN THE DAY OF TROUBLE; AND HE KNOWETH THEM THAT TRUST IN HIM.” Nahum 1:7.

ML 10/30/1938

The Gospel Bedspread

At last came the man who had the first right and title to the bedspread arid its manifold comforts—the son of the good woman who made and sent the spread to us. Is it not striking that He should come to rest under that spread? Yet such is the fact. How wonderful are God’s ways!

The newcomer was lying unconscious for a whole week. After that, he was observed examining the spread very earnestly and kissed it repeatedly. The nurse thought he must have found a verse which proved a comfort to him. She went nearer the bed to see the spot he kissed. There was no text there; she saw only a piece of goods with a red flower on dark ground. His eye rested still on that spot, and finally big tears began to chase each other down his sunken cheeks. He is delirious, the nurse thought. But no, he was fully conscious. Upon being questioned why he wept, he said:

“O, this piece of goods reminded me of my good mother. She wore such a dress when I secretly ran away years ago O, my dear mother!” and again the tears were seen coursing down the pale face of the young soldier, “Do you know where this bedspread came from?” he finally asked.

“Some good woman set it to us for the sick,” was the reply.

“What is the woman’s name?”

“That we don’t know; but we kept a little slip of paper that was pinned to the spread, no doubt written by the woman.

Shall I get it?”

“If you please.”

When I returned to the ward, he reached his hand out eagerly for the paper, his lips pale, his hand trembling, but as he looked at the handwriting he said:

“It is from my mother!” The next moment he covered his face with both his hands and sobbed aloud. I left him alone.

The next day I found him quite calm, I was desirous to know if he had not only noticed that piece of goods, but if he had observed the Scripture texts. But ere I. could say a word, he pointed with his finger to one, and whispered: “Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and no more worthy to be called thy son. Luke 15:21.

I am no more worthy,” he repeated in such a sad tone, that it cut to my very soul.

I drew his attention to the text just below that one and read aloud: “And he arose and came to his father. But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion, and ran, fell on his neck, and kissed him.”

When I looked up, his eyes were full of tears anti his lips trembled.

“A few days later, having gained some in body, he showed me the same text I read to him and said:

“But when he was yet a great way off, his father saw him, and had compassion ... .”

The happy expression in his-face made me ask involuntarily

“Are you sure that you too are dear to the Father?”

“I am sure; I know now that He has forgiven me for Jesus sake, and this makes me very happy”

“Shall I write your mother that her son which was dead is alive again and that the lost is found?”

“If it is not asking too much of you.”

“Not at all, on the contrary, it gives me great joy.”

I sat down to tell his mother in what a wonderful way God had answered her prayers.

What joy this letter must have given to the mother’s heart, and what thanksgiving and praise there went up to the God of all grace, who had again given above all asking and thinking!

But what about the bedspread? If it was of great value before, it is to me, to us, of a thousand-fold more value since then.

ML 10/30/1938

Serving the Lord

Teacher,” said a young servant to the Christian lady in whose Bible Class she had been converted, “I wish I could do something for the Lord; but you know I only get out on Sunday afternoons, and have no opportunity.”

“O yes, Mary, you have many opportunities of serving the Lord,” said the lady. “Will you open your Bible, and read Colossians 3:22,23? Read the verses aloud, please. And Mary read,

“Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eye-service, as men-pleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God. And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men.”

“There you see your opportunity for serving the Lord, Mary. “Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord.” You are Mrs. W’s servant, it is true, but you are the Lord’s servant too, and in serving your earthly mistress well, you serve Him.”

“I never knew that before, ma’m,” said Mary. “I thought it was only when we were giving-away tracts, and speaking to people about their souls, that we were serving the Lord. Now I see that I may serve Him all the day.”

“Yes, Mary, as truly as if you were a missionary preaching Christ in far-off lands. Your place of service is where the Lord has placed you, and if you serve Him faithfully in your chosen sphere, He will reward you at His judgment-seat.”

Mary went away to her rather lonely place of service, with a new motive filling her soul. She formerly did her work Only as for Mrs. W., now she went to do it for the Lord as well. And what a difference she found. Instead of murmuring and repining, because she could not get to meetings every night, as some of the girls did, to give away tracts, and gather the people to hear the gospel, she joyfully stuck to her post in the kitchen, cooking and cleaning as if the kitchen was the Lord’s. The work was a great deal better done, and Mary had more joy in the doing of it.

So may it be with all who serve an earthly master. It is their privilege there to serve the Lord, and to do the ordinary routine of daily work as unto Him. Do it well, and do it heartily, as to the Lord. This will make many a yoke easy, and many a burden light.

“Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily as to the Lord, and not unto men; knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.” Colossians 3:23,24.

ML 10/30/1938

Happy Lizzie

Bright as the morning, was Lizzie’s testimony to the saving grace of God, even when a child of five summers. When she was three years old, she sang at our Sunday school treat the well-known hymn,

Jesus loves me, this I know; For the Bible tells me so.”

As the sweet childish voice rang through the large hall, strong men wept, and one said, “It is the best sermon I ever heard.”

I have not the slightest doubt Lizzie was saved by grace, and knew it at that early age.

It is sometimes said that all “good children die young,” but Lizzie did not die, but lives still, happy in the dear Saviour’s love. There was no lapsing into frivolity, no running after the things of the world, when the days of childhood were past. Her life has been one of continual joy in the Lord, following in His ways and delighting to serve Him.

If be truly happy, from the days of youth right on through life, it can only be by knowing and believing that Jesus loves you, and that He is your personal Saviour and your Lord.

“Jesus Christ; whom not having seen, ye love, in whom, though now ye see Him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory.” 1 Peter 1:7,8.

ML 10/30/1938

Two Friends

1 Sam. 18-21

After David had saved Israel. from the enemy by killing the giant, King Saul did not want him to return home, but gave him charge of a part of the army.

The king’s son Jonathan was greatly pleased with David; he gave him his own robe and sword and bow, which was a great honor to receive from the king’s son; it was as though he would give his own place to David, and he was a true friend all his life. Jonathan trusted in the Lord and was a brave soldier; once he had climbed up steep rocks with his servant alone to fight the enemy’s men, and said, that the Lord could “save by many or by few” (1 Sam. 14:6). He knew David had been chosen by God to be king after Saul, so he did not plan for the high place, although he was the king’s son.

But it was not long before the king himself greatly envied David; he heard the people praise him, and saw how wisely David did in all things. Instead of giving honor to God as David did, he let his hate grow more and more, although David did only good to Saul in every way and obeyed his commands.

At last one day David was playing for him, and Saul threw his weapon to kill David but missed him. By this time had David was older and had a home of his own, and his wife was the king’s daughter, but even Saul sent men to take him; his wife knew of it and helped him escape from a window at night. David hid in the woods and went from one place to another; once he went to Samuel, but there was no place safe.

Jonathan tried to have his father change his evil plans, and he met with David in a field and told David he would let him know in three days if the king would change and it were safe for him to return home. He told David to hide at a great rock, and he would come there and shoot three arrows as though for practice, and if he shot the arrows far, David would know he must flee.

Jonathan went again to his father and pleaded earnestly for him to do right by David, but Saul was more than ever intent on his death, and so angry at his son for asking for David’s life, that he threw his weapon at him.

On the certain day Jonathan took a small boy and went to the field where David was hiding by the big rock. He shot the arrows far and told the boy to run for them, calling out, “Make speed, haste, stay not!” Then he sent the boy back to the city with his bow and arrows, and spoke with David, even though it was not safe for his own life to do so. They spoke of the Lord, that He would keep them and their children, and bade one another a sad goodbye and Jonathan returned to the city and David fled away.

ML 10/30/1938

Answers to Bible Questions for September

“The Children’s Class”

1. And he,” etc. Acts 9:6,

2.“Forasmuch,” etc. 11:17.

3.“Then Peter said,” etc. 3:6.

4.“Confirming,” etc. 14:22.

5.“And Stephen,” etc. 6:8.

6.“Which also said,” etc. 1:11.

7.“But he,” etc. 7:55. (or 7:56.)

Bible Questions for November

“The Children’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in Romans, chapters 1-8

1.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Let God be true, hut every man a liar.”

2.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Being now justified by his blood.”

3.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Raised again for our justification.”

4.Write in full the verse containing the words, “He that is dead is freed from sin.”

5.Write in full the verse containing the words, “That we should bring forth fruit unto God,”

6.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Nor any other creature.”

7.How was the Lord Jesus Christ “declared to be the Son of God with power?”

Answers to Bible Questions for September

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

1.Pentecost. Acts 2:1-4.

2.Forty days. Acts 1:3.

3.Antioch. Acts 13:14.4.

4.Prayed. Acts 12:12.

5.Chapter 10. Acts 10:45.

6.At God’s right hand. Acts 7:55.

7.Lying and murmuring. Acts 5:3; 6:1.

Bible Questions for November

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

The Answers are to be found in Romans, chapters 1-8

1.When do we have “peace with God”?

2.Why was Paul not ashamed of the gospel?

3.What is the wages of sin?

4.What testimony does the Spirit of God bear to us?

5.What did Paul say about his “flesh”?

6.What kind of people does God justify?

7.What is said about the “secrets-of men”?

ML 11/06/1938

The Fog Horn on the Bell Rock

It was on a foggy night that we sailed from the harbor of A. for L. The fog-horn kept sounding every now and again, and the experienced captain told us all was perfectly safe. Most of the passengers had gone to their berths, and many were asleep. About midnight we were startled by the loud boom of a cannon which seemed close at hand.

There was a good deal of excitement among: the passengers as to what this meant. The captain was applied to for information, and he replied that we were passing the famous “Bell Rock” Lighthouse, and that during very foggy weather a cannon is fired every three minutes as a warning to passing vessels, which might run upon the rock in the darkness and be wrecked. Thankful for the wise provision thus made for our safety, we returned to our berths in peace.

In former days, before that warning gun began its useful work, many a noble vessel had been dashed to pieces upon that dangerous rock. Sailing along in the fog unwarned, her captain and crew saw no danger: it came upon them unawares. Now if any run upon that rock, it must be because they fail to hear, or to heed that warning gun. In the midst of reveling’ they might drown its sound; or, hearing it, they might take no notice, but turn again to pleasure.

The Bell Rock gun reminds us very much of the warning gun of Scripture, booming out its solemn word to mariners on life’s rocky shore.

“Flee from the wrath to come.” Matt. 3:7.

Some there are who hear and heed the warning voice. Others rush on to destruction.

Reader, if ever you-find yourself a wreck for time and eternity, lost, you will never be able to blame God for not warning you of your danger. He has told you as plainly as can be, that if you live and die in sin, you will be shut out from God and heaven forever. Heed the warning voice of God and choose eternal life.

“He that believeth on the Son, hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” John 3:36.

ML 11/06/1938

At Bessie's Cot

When I was a little girl, I met with an accident, and lay in the Children’s Hospital for many weeks. I was lonely there, and longed to be able to play with my little school companions again. In the winter evenings there were many visitors to the ward, and one little girl, who always came with her mother, brought me some nice toys. I was delighted, and spent many an hour dressing my doll. One night, just as Amy was leaving my cot, she bent her head close to my ear, and whispered,

“Do you love Jesus?”

I could not answer, for I had not thought much about Him. Amy saw that I was unable to answer, so she whispered again,

“Jesus loves you, Bessie, and wants to save you.”

I thought all next day about that, and wished Amy would come again. When she did come, she brought with her a pretty book, saying,

“That’s for you, Bessie,” Then she told me that Jesus had saved her two years ago, and she was happy.

“How did He save you?” I asked.

“I came to Him as a sinner, believing He died for me on the Cross—that was all.”

I came to Jesus in that way too, and He saved me.

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Timothy 1:15.

ML 11/06/1938

Teaching the Children

How our picture speaks to us of the loving interest the mother takes in the instruction of her children, and also of the attention shown by two of them.

It reminds us of those verses in 2 Timothy 3:14,15:

“Continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them; and that from a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation, through faith which is in Christ Jesus.”

May you, dear children, be eager to hear what God has to say to you in His Word, for there we get instruction for our whole path, and it shows us the way of salvation.

I expect most of our readers have learned before this how we can be saved, that God has provided the Saviour, and all we are asked to do is to accept Jesus, God’s beloved Son, as our own Saviour.

If we have done so, it is for us to learn how we should act, by looking at the Lord Jesus in His path while in this world.

He was a little child, a servant and a master, so we can have His life as an example for us.

“MY SON, HEAR THE INSTRUION OF THY FATHER, AND FOAKE NOT THE LAW OF THY MOTHER.” Proverbs 1:8.

ML 11/06/1938

Jesus Loves the Children

Jesus loves the children dearly,

In His Word He tells them so;

Once He took them up and blessed them,

Many, many years ago.

We are little lambs of Jesus’;

He, our Shepherd kind and dear,

Speaks, and though we do not hear Him,

In our hearts His voice we hear.

ML 11/06/1938

Hiding in a Cave

1 Samuel 22

There are often large caves in hilly lands, some with separate parts as though rooms were dug out of the rock or earth. Perhaps you have been in a cave, and wondered how you could find your way in the darkness if there were no one with a lantern to show you. It was in such a place David hid from King Saul who envied David because he had been chosen by God to rule Israel after him and was seeking to kill him.

This cave seems to have been not far from Bethlehem, so perhaps David had often been in. it when a boy. When David’s brothers heard of his trouble they came to him there, but he sent his father and mother, who must have been old, to another land to stay, for the king was so angry, that no one who cared for David or helped him, was safe. He wickedly put to death some who gave David and his men bread when they were hungry. So, many who liked David and others who also were in trouble, came to him in the cave, in all about four hundred men, so it must have been a very large cave. People have measured one cave a few miles from Bethlehem, and its length inside is about 500 ft.

There were some very brave soldiers with David: once when he was weary and thirsty he wished for a drink of water from the well at Bethlehem; the enemy were then camped there, but three of his brave men heard his wish, and went past the enemy; got water from the well, and brought it to him. David knew the great danger they had been in and he felt that the water was too precious to drink, so he gave it as an offering to God. It must have cheered David to know he had such brave friends (2 Sam. 23:13-18).

There was one rich man in the land who had several thousand sheep and goats in his “locks and while his servants were shearing the sheep, David’s men kept watch that no robbers should come. Later, David thought this man would give his followers some food and sent to ask him, hut he would not. But his wife knew of God’s care for David, and she brought many loaves of bread and meat and fruit for them.

We do not know how long David and his followers lived at the cave, perhaps a long time. Sometimes David was discouraged; but in his sad troubles he asked help of the Lord and many of the Psalms he wrote show his sorrow, but also how the Lord comforted him.

“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear.’’ Psalms 27:1.

ML 11/06/1938

Unchangeable Love

True human love is passing sweet,
As found in friend and brother;
Or where its choicest virtues meet,
The bosom of a mother.

But love that’s known through Jesus’ Name,
Naught from its power can sever;
It always flows, no ebb it knows,—
God loves, and loves forever.

ML 11/06/1938

Happy Girls

What a peaceful scene we have before us in our picture! Do you wonder what these girls are talking about? It must be something good, for they have such kind, happy faces. They are busy girls, though, for one has a pitchfork in her hand, and the other is tending the cow and calf. They are beginning a day’s work, and are happy in it.

Did you know that the busy people are always the happiest ones? Idle ones are sure to get into mischief—they are apt to be saying evil and unkind things, and doing harm to others.

God has a message in His Word to idle people. He tells them to watch the tiny ant; it is always busy.

Little people can run errands, and do many deeds of kindness for others. All these things will make them very happy, if done because they love Jesus. He is watching us all the time, and knows whether we are doing our work to please Him. Big and little people can do their duties as under His eye, and have a peace and a real happiness down in their hearts, because they are doing faithfully the work He has given them strength for.

“WHATSOEVER YE DO, DO IT HEARTILY, AS TO THE LORD, AND NOT UNTO MEN.” Colossians 3:23.

ML 11/13/1938

The Temptation

PART 1

I tell you, Charles, this world is full of manifold temptations, and the devil leaves nothing undone to catch us in his snares. The Lord Jesus says:

‘Watch and pray that ye enter not into temptation.’ Matthew 26:41, a needed warning, indeed. God alone can keep us and give us strength to resist. In regard to this I could tell you a most precious incident out of my own life.”

Thus spoke an old man one evening to his grandson, Charles. One could tell from the old man’s words that they came from his heart; which, rich in experience, was ever ready to impart to others for their good, Tears were in his eyes. Charles, a youth of about sixteen years, showed in his looks and ways that he would be much pleased should his grandfather relate the story.

The old man understood, and since Charles was of an age when temptations would come in on him from every side, he was all the more ready to grant the request, to warn him by his own experience, and to turn his eyes to the Lord Jesus, who is ever ready to stand by His own, and to give them courage and strength in temptation’s hour.

The old man began after a pause: “When I was in my seventeenth year, my circumstances in life differed from the present. My father, who up to that time, had a well paying position, was obliged to give it up for health’s sake, and his income being much smaller, we had a hard time to make both ends meet, since our family was a numerous one.

Out of eight children I was the only one able to earn anything, and I was overjoyed when I obtained a position as bookkeeper. My employer was a hard-hearted, money-loving man who took advantage of our pressed circumstances, paying me very scanty wages, so that, after all, I could be of but little help to my poor parents. My position was therefore not an enviable one; nevertheless I can thank the Lord who led as into this; for the sorrows and trials I had to pass through were the means used to lead me to Christ, who died on the cross for my sins. My trials led me to accept the invitation of Him who said,

‘Come unto Me all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.’ Matthew 11:28.

I had in those days a sincere friend who invited me to a gospel meeting held at his house. I went, and this proved the turning point in my life. The Word of God which is sharper than any two edged sword, pierced my soul. Afraid and troubled on account of my sins, I fled to the arms of Jesus and found peace through His precious blood. How happy I was then! God had shined into my dark heart. Now I had a mighty and sympathizing Friend in heaven to whom I could go and tell everything. Now I had His Word as a lamp to my feet and I possessed a living hope, hastening on to eternal glory, after a little sorrow and trials.

“Teach me Thy way, O Lord, and lead use in a plain path.” Psalms 27:11.

ML 11/13/1938

A Blind Man's Trust

Many years ago there was a man who spent the whole of his life caring for cattle and otherwise wisely using his time. At last, through old age and infirmity and long exposure to the wild weather of these moorland hills, he became totally blind.

As he neared his last days, the unseen things of eternity became to him more real and abiding. The old man was frequently visited by one of his granddaughters, who read to him portions of the Word of God One day, while this little girl was reading to him the first Epistle of John, when she reached a certain verse, the old man stopped her, and gently raising himself up, he said with great earnestness,

“Is that there, my dear?”

“Yes, grandpa.”

“Then read it to me again, I never heard the like before.” Again she read it. “You are quite sure it is there?”

Yes, quite sure!”

“‘Then take my hand and lay my finger on the passage, for I should like to feel it.”

So the little girl put the old blind man’s finger on the seventh verse, when he said,

“Now read it again to me.” The little girl read with her soft, gentle voice,

“The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7.

“You are quite sure that is there?” “Yes, quite sure!”

“If anyone should ask you how I died, tell them I died in the faith of these words,” he said.

Not long after, the blind old man passed from all the sorrows of earth to the land that is fairer than day.

Dear young friend, this text can save you also.

ML 11/13/1938

Freddy's First Day at School

It was a long promise, that Freddy should be allowed to go to Sunday school as soon as his sixth birthday was come. It was New Year week, and the snow lay thick upon the ground. But what of that, to Sunday school Freddy must go. So, well wrapped up in his overcoat, with his Testament, Freddy set off by his brother’s side, to school.

They had fully a mile to walk, in deep snow, from the country house where Freddy lived, to the village school-room. When they arrived, the first hymn was being sung, and Freddy thought it was grand. The words were:

Around the throne of God in heaven,

Thousands of children stand,

Whose sins through Christ are all forgiven,

A holy, happy band,

Singing glory, glory, glory.

He was put into a class, and the teacher told them about the paschal lamb slain in Egypt, and how its blood was put upon the doors; to shelter the firstborn child inside from the sword; then about “The Lamb of God” dying on the Cross, that sinners might be saved from death and hell. At the close, his teacher gave a pretty Text Card, on which the words,

“The blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth us from all sin” were printed. He was told to learn the text during the week, and to be able to repeat it when he came the following Lord’s day.

Freddy went home, greatly delighted with what he had seen and heard, that first day at school, and it was found after many days, that some of the good seed that was dropped into his young heart that day, took root, never to be forgotten. All through the week, the cottage rang with the precious words,

“The blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth us from all sin,” until Freddy could repeat them without a mistake. Not only so, but they became so familiar to him, that he kept thinking about them every day for long after. But Freddy did not know their meaning then, nor did he know how great a sinner he was, and how he needed the “blood of Jesus Christ” to cleanse him.

It was some time after this that Freddy came home from a Children’s Meeting one evening, really anxious to be saved, convinced that he was a sinful boy, unfit to be in heaven. His first text, these glorious words learned on his first school day, were brought to his memory; they had been there since the time they were sown, and Freddy trusted the precious blood, and was cleansed from all his sins, and made fit to be in heaven. How he loved then to trace along the pages of his Bible, the various things the precious blood of Christ has done, and is doing, for all who believe on Jesus. On a page in his well-read Bible, you might read,

Sheltered by the Blood (Ex. 12:13). Cleansed by the Blood (1 John 1:7). Peace through the Blood (Col. 1:20). Made nigh in the Blood (Eph. 2:13). Victory through the Blood (Rev.12:11)

Dear boys and girls, have you known, like this dear boy, the cleansing of the blood of Christ? Are you made clean from all your sins, and fit for heaven in “the precious blood of Christ?”

ML 11/13/1938

David's Mercy to King Saul

1 Samuel, chapter 24 and 26

King Saul had tried many times to kill David, and when he heard that David had fled to a desert land he took his soldiers to hunt for him there.

He came to a dark cave where David and his men were hiding behind the rocks. They saw Saul enter, but he did not see them. David’s men thought it was a good chance to punish Saul for his treatment of David. But David would not harm him, although he was so close to Saul, that he cut off a piece of his robe while Saul was asleep without Saul knowing he had done it.

Soon the king and his men went away from the cave. Then David came out and called after Saul. The king stopped and looked back. David bowed low in respect; then he held up the piece of the robe to show the king how near he had been to him, yet had not hurt him.

When king Saul saw the piece of his robe in David’s hands, he knew how easily David could have harmed him, yet had not, and he felt ashamed of his hatred tard David, and after speaking a few words, he and his men went back to their city.

But David could not trust the king, so he stayed in the wild land. After a time the king forgot about David’s mercy to him, and took his soldiers again to hunt for him.

They camped at night on a hill, and David knew they had come near, but he did not run away; instead, he asked his men who would go with him to Saul’s camp. One brave man said he would go, so the two went to the camp.

It must have been a moonlight night for they could plainly see King Saul lying asleep on the ground with his captain and soldiers asleep on the ground around him.

There was no guard, and David and his man came close. The man wanted to kill Saul for David’s sake, but David said they must not hurt him, but to take his spear which was stuck in the ground beside him and his water bottle which was also bide him.

So they took Saul’s spear and water bottle and quietly went away. No one heard them because God had made all sleep so soundly.

When it was day David stood on a hill across from King Saul’s camp and called loudly to the captain, asking why he had not watched over his master better, and held up, the king’s spear and water bottle to show how close he had been to Saul.

The king knew David’s voice and again felt ashamed of his evil wish because David had spared his life a second time. He called to David and said he would not try to hurt him anymore, and returned home with his army.

But David did not return to his home because he knew he could not believe Saul’s promises.

Was not David good to the king who was so angry toward him? He was even sorry he had cut off the piece from the king’s robe. It was right for David to give respect to King Saul, because God had given Saul the place of ruler, and it is right now for Christians to be respectful in speaking of those ruling our countries, and not to speak evil (Romans 13:7; Titus 3:2).

Did David want to keep the king’s spear? (1 Sam. 26:22).

ML 11/13/1938

Unseen Danger

This picture tells its own story pretty clearly, it is enough to make one shudder to see those great eager eyes, and that savage face, and that immense mouth of the lion; and then to nice the thoughtlessness, and fancied security of the innocent little deer.

Soon he will spring upon them and devour them. Poor things!

Ah, well! such things are happening all over the country, everywhere, and it is sad enough.

“What?” you may say, “you do not mean that there are any lions in our neighborhood? It is all safe and quiet, and I am not afraid to run around anywhere.”

This is exactly the way with these little animals; they do not see the enemy, either, and yet there he is. If they were to see him, they would bound away in a moment, before he could catch them.

Who, does the Scripture say, is our enemy?

“YOUR ADVERSARY THE DEVIL, AS A ROARING LION, WALKETH ABOUT, SEEKING WHOM HE MAY DEVOUR.” 1 Peter 5:8.

Remember, he already has those who are not Christ’s; he is their prince; they are led by his will.

Satan is conquered by two things (see Rev. 12:11), the blood of Christ and the Word of God. First of all if you are resting on the blood of Christ alone, there is safety. Stand to that, for Satan will want to tell you that you are not saved.

“The blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7.

ML 11/20/1938

The Temptation

PART 2

My position in business now became with each day more difficult. My employer became more rigid and hard, as he saw the change in me. He was a thorough man of the world, and thought that godliness was only a cloak for covetousness and hypocrisy, and therefore he looked on me and my actions with suspicion. But all this only caused me to cleave closer to the Lord.

At home everything seemed to go wrong; father did not get better, debts accumulated and in addition, house rent was due in a few days; there seemed to be no way out of it all.”

The old man paused for a while in his narrative. Tears were chasing each other down his wrinkled face as all these things pressed themselves upon his mind, yet the expression of his face showed that those days of sorrow did not pass over him without the desired effect, but that he owned in all of these things the hand of Him who is the “Father of mercies, and God of all comfort.”

Silent and expectant, Charles sat waiting for his grandfather to continue.

“One afternoon, shortly after this, my employer told me to leave the office a little earlier, in order to pay some bills which were due. Several of the creditors lived quite a way off, so that not till after two hours’ walking did I find myself at the house of the last one—Mr. W—. I was shown into a room, and since I had to wait quite a while, I drew from my pocket the money I was to pay, to count it over, and found to my astonishment that I had a greenback of $100 too much. I counted the money repeatedly, with the same result—I had one hundred dollars too much. I hurriedly hid the bill in my pocket, just as Mr. W—stepped into the room. He approached me with these words:

‘You look very pale my young friend. Are you sick?’

I am tired from rapid walking, and I feel a little sick, indeed said I, and so I was.

‘I thought so,’ was the reply.

We then transacted our business. I received my receipt and left the house. Arriving at home, I found things as I had feared. Our landlord had come and threatened to sell some of our furniture, if the rent was not paid promptly. My poor father lay in bed. My sorrowing mother sat weeping at the table.

‘Can nothing be done?’ said she as I entered the room. ‘It is too bad that for the small sum of ninety or one hundred dollars we should lose this furniture. Is there no outlet to be found?’

“In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:6.

ML 11/20/1938

Saved in a Dug Out

This is the simple and joyful story of a soldier’s conversion, in his own words, to his mother.

“Mother, you will be surprised, and so will my friends, when you read this letter, the best piece of news you ever had from me. I have received Christ as my own personal Saviour. I am so glad I hardly know what to say. The men out here will make fun of me, but I don’t care. I still hold fast by faith in Christ my Saviour. I have some tracts, and I read them. I am sending you a portion of the one I found in the dug out. I was sitting by myself, and no one to speak to me about anything. This is the portion I read in the tract, it said, ‘Lost and found.’ Then we have a wondrous story to tell you, the Son of Man came to seek and to save that which was lost.

“That was the point at which I stopped. I looked, and found out it was for me. I stuck to the point, and found I was forever lost if I died as I was. I just said, ‘Yes, Lord, I do believe that Jesus died for me, and by the shedding of His precious blood I am saved.’

I just believed he died for me as if there was no one else in the world but myself. Thank God, when I found out I was lost, I trusted Christ, and I know I am saved, and if I am called away, (as you never know the minute out here you may be,) I know I am safe for all eternity. With love to all Your loving son.

ML 11/20/1938

Lost and Found

What’s your name, dear?” asks the kind lady of the shy little girl with her kitten on her lap.

“Lotty,” is the answer, as the finger goes in the mouth, and the other hand draws pussy closer to her.

“Lotty what? What is your other name, dear?”

“Smif.”

“And where is your home?”

“Up dere,” says the child, pointing tards a cottage two fields beyond.

“We had better take her home, my dear, as her mother will be in a sad way.”

The kind-hearted gentleman takes the little wanderer by the hand. As pussy is Lotty’s personal property and “darling pet,” she cannot give up the charge of it, although the lady offers to carry it.

The fields were not very big ones, and the three were soon in sight of the cottage, and a little turn in the lane brought them right close to the door; and Mrs. Smith set up such a cry as she saw her little runaway coming in between the lady and gentleman, and Miss Pussy hugged up close to her side.

The gentleman explained where they found the little girl, and Mrs. Smith was glad to get her little girl back again.

The little one had been lost while mother went upstairs to “tidy up the room.” They had searched round the house, but she had not been gone long when the lady and gentleman found her.

Well, Lotty and Kitty sat at the door having a little game. But presently Miss Pussy thought, I suppose, she should like a run, and so she frisked off, stopping and looking round at her little playmate, and wagging her tiny tail, as much as to say,

“Come along, Lotty, into the fields.”

Then off again. Poor Lotty, afraid to lose her kitten, followed, and a little hole in the hedge which puss had found out, was big enough for Lotty, and so they ran over the meadow. Sometimes Lotty would stoop to pick up a bluebell, and Kitty would hide herself in a little tuft of grass, till her companion cried out, “Tits, Tits, where are oo?” They came to a nice quiet corner, when both being tired, they agreed to have a rest.

Pussy seems happy enough. Lotty was tired, and one little shoe lay on the grass, as she sat among the flowers under the trees.

Pussy, Pussy! you were at the bottom of the mischief, leading the little girl away from home; but the punishment was not a heavy one—not quite so much milk as usual. But I don’t think there was above a spoonful difference, as Kitty was a general favorite, and Bobbie thought,

“She did not do it on purpose, only for a game.”

The lady and gentleman did not want thanks even, for they were more than paid as they saw Lotty’s mother and brother so happy when the little wanderer was brought back.

But they could not help thinking of that dear father who was so happy when he got his poor wandering boy back safe and sound that he did not know how to do enough to show his joy, and ordered his servants to fetch the best robe in the house for his son, some new shoes, and all that he wanted, and then put a sparkling ring on his finger. The fatted calf was killed (they must have kept it on purpose, I should think, for the occasion), and it was a merry-making time; and as the father looked round on the company who were at the table, he said,

“For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost and is found” Luke 15.

And when Lotty was old enough to go to the Sunday school with Bobbie, she perhaps remembered how she was lost and found, as she heard the teacher read that most beautiful of all stories. She is sure to hear about it. It is such a favorite at school—and I don’t wonder at it. Do you ask why? Because that was about the first Bible story I learned, and it brought me to Jesus, and I have been happy ever since.

ML 11/20/1938

David Made King of Israel

2 Samuel 1 and 2:1-5

David had been named by God to be king over the people of Israel while he was a boy tending his father’s sheep, but it was a long, time before he really became king. He had much trouble first, because King Saul envied him and tried many times to kill him.

At last King Saul killed himself, after being badly wounded in a battle with the enemy, and his son Jonathan was killed the same day (1 Sam. 31).

At that time David was staying in another country for fear of Saul, and a man who had seen the battle came to tell him that Saul was dead. He brought the king’s crown to David and expected he would be greatly pleased to hear his story, and even told what was untrue to win David’s favor. But David was not glad to hear the enemy had defeated the army of Israel and he and his men wept, and David mourned very much that Jonathan was dead.

After Saul’s death, David did not need to fear to go to the land of Israel, yet he did not go back until he asked of the Lord if he should go, and to what place. The Lord told him to go to Hebron, which was not far away, and there he was made king over the tribe of Judah. David’s father was from the family of Judah.

For a time many of the other people of Israel wanted one of the sons of Saul to be their king. But after a few years those men also, wanted David to be their king because they knew he was the one God had said should be their leader.

So, very many men from all parts of the land came to Hebron and made David king of all Israel. The people from other places brought their camels, oxen, and mules carrying loads of meat, meal, and fruit, so they had plenty to feast together for three days. There was great joy among them, because they were honoring the king God had chosen (1 Chron. 12).

After this David and his men took a strong city on Mount Zion, northeast of Hebron, which had not been ruled by Israel before, but belonged to their land. And this place became the center city of all Israel, Jerusalem, called the “City of David,” and it was his home the rest of his life. A special house was built for him there, which must has been very different from living in the dark, rocky, desert cave.

With the help of his brave soldiers, David drove the enemies from the land of Israel. The reason David became so great a king was because he asked the Lord what he should do, and tried to keep His Word, which king Saul had not done. David showed great kindness to the ones who had been against him, and was loved by his people. When he himself sinned he confessed his sins to God and was truly sorry.

How old was David when he was made king? (2 Sam. 5:1-6. Read also 1 Chron. 1.2:38-40.

ML 11/20/1938

The Gray Wolf

There is no animal, outside of the domestic, more generally known than the wolf, as it is found in every part of the world.

In our picture we see them out on the cold snow hunting for food, and no doubt it will be very difficult for them to find any, but we know God takes care of all His creatures in one way or another.

The way the wolf is described in Scripture is as ravening and seeking its prey in the evening. It is very destructive among sheep, destroying more than it can eat. This makes the wolf a fit emblem of the wicked, who molest the sheep and lambs of God’s flock, and even creep in among them.

During the Millennium ( or one thousand years) when the Lord Jesus will reign over the earth, and Satan shall be bound, “The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf, and the young lion, and the fatling ‘together; and a little child shall lead them.” Isa. 11:6.

“THE DESERT SHALL REJOICE, AND BLOSSOM AS THE ROSE.” Isa. 35:1.

ML 11/27/1938

The Temptation

PART 3

Ninety or one hundred dollars! My heart repeated again and again. My pocket contained the round sum of one hundred dollars, and no one knew about it. Who would ever think of it? Well did I know how forgetful my employer was. Ah! that money burned in my pocket.

Without a word to any one, I went to my room, and sank on my knees to pray. But in this hour of temptation I found no word to say. Overwhelmed by the dreary prospect and all the sorrow that pressed in on me, I could not form one sentence or find words to utter. I rose from my knees and paced the room with loud, beating heart. Why could I not carry out my plan? My employer was a rich man, and will never miss this small amount, and by it I could save the few household goods of my dear parents. He is without care, and will scarcely miss the loss of one hundred dollars. Moreover, the salary he pays me is so scanty, that he really owes me this sum and more, too. Now, it would be different, too, if I were going to use the money for a bad purpose; and could it not also be possible that God had allowed this error to take place, to put the money in my hand to help, my dear parents?

These thoughts had somewhat of a soothing influence over me; so I cast myself into a chair, to quietly think over any further steps to be taken. The bills with receipts were once more taken from the pocketbook and carefully compared, everything was correct. Then taking everything once more into consideration, I moved toward the door, putting my hand on the knob, and so doing I looked the room over, when my eye fell on my Bible, which lay on my trunk. I paused. If the step I am about to take is a good one, then the Bible will set me clear on it, I said to myself. I went back to my seat, opened the Bible, and, what do you think, dear Charles, were the first words my eyes fell upon? They were these:

‘Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love Him. Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God: for God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth He any man. But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed. Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.’ James 1:12-15.

ML 11/27/1938

The Faithful Slave

The following account was given to me by a faithful old slave.

“My master’s son gave me lessons every evening of all he had learned during the day. Thus I learned to read. Then we read, verse by verse, all through the New Testament. We learned we were sinners, and began to pray earnestly for the salvation of our souls. Through the grace of God, we were saved by the blood of Christ.

Sometime after we began to have meetings among the slaves, for prayer and reading of the Word, seeking to lead them to Christ. My old master was very angry when he knew his son was saved. Under penalty of the whip he forbade me to continue these meetings.

I paid no attention to the threats, but kept on preaching the gospel. My master beat me with a terrible whip, so that my back was sore from Monday to Monday. It was with difficulty I went about my work, during the week. Thus a year and a half passed by. One morning as usual, my master ordered my fellow slaves to tie me to a tree to be whipped. They obeyed him. He stood before me, a dark look on his face, the whip hanging by his side. His conscience was stirred up; he had come to a decided moment in his life.

‘James,’ he said, ‘your back is covered with wounds and scars. I do not know where to strike you, miserable creature. How long are you going to keep on in this determined way?’

‘Master,’ I replied, ‘I shall keep on as long as God gives me life to do it.’

My master was silent. Then he told the slaves to untie the ropes that bound me, and sent me back to my work in the field. Late in the evening he came to me.

‘Sit down, James,’ he said, ‘and tell me the truth. For a long time your back has been covered with wounds; you have to work very hard, and you are only a miserable slave. Tell me, notwithstanding all these trials, are you really happy?’

“Master,” I said, ‘I do not think there is a happier man in the world.’ He was silent for some time, then he said,

‘James, you told me once that your religion taught you to pray for your enemies. Will you pray for your old master?’

“With all my heart,” I said. We both knelt down, and I prayed for him. From that time he would often come to me in the fields, always asking me to pray for him. At last he found peace through the blood of the Lamb. Then we lived as brothers in the Lord.

On his death bed he gave me my freedom, asking me to preach the gospel as long as I lived.”

This dear slave rejoiced that he was counted worthy to suffer for the One who died for him. Many of you too, know the Lord Jesus as your Saviour. Will you not speak a word for Him, and show by your ways that you love Him who first loved us? (1 John 4:19).

“Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man’s sake. Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven.” Luke 6:22:23.

“Consider Him that endured such contradiction of sinners against Himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.” Hebrews 12:3.

Yes, dear reader, think of how much the Lord Jesus suffered for us: “He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.” Isaiah 53:5.

If you do not yet know Him as your Saviour, won’t you come to Him at once? Don’t delay!

ML 11/27/1938

Nothing but the Blood

Washing away past things? Nothing but the blood, sir—nothing but the blood!”

“When did you learn that?”

“Only last Sunday evening, but I’m too full to speak of it tonight, sir.”

Such was the short conversation that took place between a Christian and one of the railway employees who was washing the time-bills off the boards, ready to put fresh ones up for another month.

Has the love of God filled your heart with joy unspeakable? Such joy as this the world cannot give; it is found in Christ alone. He said to His disciples: “These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.”

“Without shedding of blood is no remission.”

“The blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7.

“Nothing but the precious blood

Can give lasting peace with God,

For the heart so dark,

So stained with sin and guilt;

There is nothing can atone

But the blood of Christ alone,

Blood which Christ in love,

For guilty sinners spilt.

Trusting in that precious blood, There is perfect peace with God; Saved for glory, wondrous story, Saved through Jesus’ precious blood.”

ML 11/27/1938

Carrying the Ark to Jerusalem

2 Samuel 6

The gold-covered ark had been neglected while Saul was king of Israel, and left in a man’s house many years. The writings of God’s Words were kept in the ark, so we suppose the reading of those Words was not heard by the people, only what they had written in their own houses, for they had been told to write God’s Words on their doorposts and talk to one another about them.

When David became king he wished more than anything else to have the ark at Jerusalem, where all could worship the Lord. So he talked to all the people about it and a very large company went with him to get the ark. They took harps and other musical instruments, and at first were very happy.

They put the ark on a new cart with oxen to draw it, much as the enemy had once carried it (1 Sam. 6). But God had said for His people to carry the ark by the staves on the shoulders of men of Levi, and they seem to have forgotten His directions, or else wanted to take it an easier way. The ark was where the Lord placed the cloud of glory, to show the people He would be with them, and was most holy, so it was right for them to do His way, and not as they thought to do.

The Lord was displeased with them, so they did not get the ark to Jerusalem that day, but again left it in a man’s house and David was very disappointed.

But soon after, David learned how they should carry the ark, and they went again for it. This time the Levites carried it on their shoulders, and David and very many singers and players of music were with them, all dressed in white linen robes. They blew the trumpets and gave much praise to God (1 Chron. 13 and 15).

So the ark was safely brought to Jerusalem and placed in a tent made ready by David. And there was great joy in all the city, and each person was given his food. David had written a special song and given it to the chief singer,—some of the last words were:

“O give thanks unto the Lord for He is good,

For His mercy endureth forever.”

All the people answered, “Amen”, and when all the singing and words were ended, David sent the people to their homes (1 Chron. 16).

The ark of God teaches us of the Lord Jesus Christ. He is most precious to all who believe in Him. But if we neglect Him and all the Words of God to us, we too will dishonor Him as Israel did. The Lord still wants us to read His Words, and sing praises to Him.

Note: The tabernacle made by Moses seems to have been moved about during the years of trouble with the enemies of Israel. Not much is told of it, but it was not at Jerusalem in David’s time, but was kept by God, protected by an angel (1 Chron. 21:29,30).

ML 11/27/1938

Answers to Bible Questions for October

“The Children’s Class”

1.“And he said,” etc. Acts 22:14.

2.“But none of these,” etc. 20:24.

3.“To open their eyes,” etc.26:18.

4.“God that made,” etc. 17:24.

5.“Preaching,” etc. 28:31.

6.“And this was known,” etc. 19:17.

7.“Simeon hath,” etc. 15:14.

Bible Questions for December

“The Children’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in Romans, chapters 9-16

1.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Power to stablish you according to my gospel.”

2.Write in full the verse containing the words, “And bring glad tidings of good things.”

3.Write in full the verse containing the words, “That he might have mercy upon all.”

4.Write in full the verse containing the words, “I will have mercy on whom I will have mercy.”

5.Write in full the verse containing the words, “By the mercies of God.”

6.Write in full the verse containing the words, “Let us put on the armor of light.”

7.If the “kingdom of God is not meat and drink,” what is it?

Answers to Bible Questions for October

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

1. Acts 21:5.

2.Yes. Acts 28:7-10.

3.Paul. Acts 27:21-23.

4.Repentance and Faith. Acts 20:21.

5.Many believed. Acts 17:11-12.

6.“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ.” Acts 16:31.

7.No. Acts 15:9.

Bible Questions for December

“The Young People’s Bible Class”

The Answers are to be found in Romans, chapters 9-16

1.How are we to overcome evil?

2.Who had the Church in their house?

3.What verse declares Christ is God?

4.What is to be our attitude toward government?

5.How long is blindness to hang over the Jew?

6.What part do the heart and the mouth have in salvation?

7.What is said about the Old Testament Scriptures?

ML 12/04/1938

The Temptation

PART 4

Like a bolt of lightning these words came into my heart; again I went on my knees, and this time I could pray. I was as one who had stepped out of a thick fog bank; the way was clear to me, and my heart beat fast and loud in joy and triumph. The Lord had delivered me out of this temptation. I hastened down to my dear father’s bedside, as one who was transformed, assuring him that on the following day, I would do all in my power to bring relief.

My dear Charles, what grace the Lord had shown me! Never, in all my life, have I forgotten the Lord’s faithfulness to me in that hour of temptation.”

Again the old man paused in his narrative. He seemed to taste again the joys of that hour, when by God’s grace, he triumphed over the enemy.

The old man continued again. The next morning I went to work with that one hundred dollar bill in my pocket. Upon arriving at the office I found my employer already there at his desk. As I entered he looked at his watch to see if I had got there on time.

‘Here, sir, are the receipts,’ said I, approaching his desk.

‘Very well,’ was the answer, ‘lay it altogether over there.’

‘Would you be so kind as to look over bills and receipts, to see if all is in order, Mr. M— ?’ as I laid the papers before him. It seemed to me he was both surprised and annoyed, as he looked straight at me for some time. He glanced over the papers and continued to write again.

Seeing that I remained at my post before him, he asked me:

‘Well, what are you waiting for?’

‘I desire to know if all is in order,’ I replied.

‘I should have told you at once had it not been so,’ he answered, ‘and now oblige me by going to your work at once.’

‘I want to tell you first that you gave me one hundred dollars too much yesterday.’ With these words I laid the money on the desk before him. The colors in his face chased each other for a few moments, and then he said in a hardly audible tone: ‘Very well, just let it lie there.’

ML 12/04/1938

Disobedience

The following little incident was written by an eleven year old girl, who wondered if it might not help some other little boy or girl if it were printed in the Sunday school paper, so we trust it will, and also that this little girl will always remember her experience and ask the Lord to help her to please Him.

“I had an experience not long ago that taught me a good lesson.

I wanted ever so much to go to my married sister’s home, so before leaving for school in the morning I asked my mother if I could stop there on my way home from school that evening.

‘No,’ she said, ‘the roads are too muddy for you to walk, so you must ride home on the school bus.’

After school the sun was shining so brightly, I thought the road couldn’t be so very muddy, so decided to walk to my sister’s anyway. Satan was tempting me and I thought it wouldn’t hurt fur once, but it always does when you are disobedient.

When I reached home my mother looked disappointed. She said she had been looking and looking for me. It was around my birthday, and I had received two packages through the mail that day. Mother was very sorry that I had been disobedient, and said,

‘I am sorry, but for your punishment you may not open one of your packages until tomorrow.’

At first I felt vexed and brought up all sorts of excuses, but I knew I had been disobedient and felt very unhappy and sorry that I had been so naughty. I knew too, that the Lord Jesus saw me, and it made Him sad too. How I wished that I had listened to my mother. I just had to cry and cry. At last I got down on my knees and told the Lord Jesus all about it.

I told my mother how sorry I was, then I wished daddy would come in from work so I could tell him, too. Not because I wanted my presents, no, but I just wanted to tell him how sorry I felt for disobeying. Finally he came in and I told him, and he and mother both forgave me, and now I am happy again.

I know the Lord Jesus is very well pleased if we do obey our parents. He tells us so in this verse:

‘Children obey your parents in all things, for this is well pleasing unto the Lord.’” Colossians 3:20.

ML 12/04/1938

The Lion

I look on the lion with wonder and fear,

And tremble in awe when his roaring I hear,

And think, if he could but escape from the cage,

He’d tear me in pieces in fierceness and rage.

That great man of valor, called David the king,—

Goliath he slew with a stone and a sling;—

Once fought with and killed both a lion and bear,

To save the poor sheep which were placed in his care.

The battle he won in the strength of the Lord,

A much surer weapon than arrow or sword;

He faithfully fought for the poor little flock,

And stood in the conflict as firm as a rock.

A mightier than David—God’s own blessed Son—

A vict’ry far greater than David has won:

He, Satan has vanquished, and sin put away,

Delivering sinners, of Satan the prey.

He now lives, the Saviour, in heaven above,

And safe is each soul in the arms of His love;

No lamb of the flock will He ever let go,

But guard it and keep it secure from the foe.

How blessed with Jesus in heaven to be,

From Satan and sorrow and sin ever free,

With none to disturb, to mislead or destroy,

And nothing to check the o’erflowing of joy.

“WHEREFORE HE IS ABLE TO SAVE THEM TO THE UTTERMOST THAT COME UNTO GOD BY HIM.” Hebrews 7:25.

ML 12/04/1938

A Cripple at King David's Table

2 Samuel 9

There was one person who lived in King David’s house in Jerusalem and ate his meals with the king’s sons, who did not really belong there. He was a poor cripple, the son of Jonathan and the grandson of King Saul.

When Saul and his sons were killed in battle, and the sad news was told to their families, they were greatly frightened, for they knew the enemy would come to capture their city. So they all fled away.

Jonathan had a little son who was carried by a woman who had the care of him, but in her great hurry she let him fall, and that fall made him lame on both his feet all his life (2 Sam. 4:4). We do not know if he could walk at all or not, and perhaps he did not have a good home, for the name of the place where he was taken was Lodebar and means “there was no pasture.” We do not know how long he lived there.

At last, one day after David was king he asked if anyone knew if there were any of Saul’s family left, for he would like to help them for the sake of his friend Jonathan. So he was told of the cripple son of Jonathan, and David sent for him to be brought to Jerusalem.

The cripple boy had grown older, and seems to have known how wicked his grandfather had been to David, and so was afraid to come before David; but David said, “Fear not,” and told him he would surely treat him kindly for his father Jonathan’s sake. And David said he should have the lands which had belonged to his father’s family, and that a servant should have charge of them and bring him the fruit and grain, but he should himself eat with the king’s sons at his table. So he stayed at Jerusalem, and runt have been much happier, but was always lame.

Once King David had trouble and had to leave Jerusalem for a time. The lame man stayed there but he loved David and felt very bad for him. When David came back he was so happy, he was willing to lose all his lands since King David was home safe again.

This lame man had a long hard name, Me-phib-o-sheth. Say it over a few times and you will remember it.

Do you know there is a way we are like that lame boy? The Lord, who is King over all, has invited us to come to him.

We could not get to Him ourselves, any more than the lame boy could get to Jerusalem, and we could not work for Him, as the lame boy could be of no use to a king. We, too, in our hearts, have been against God because of sin, much more than the lame boy had been against David. Yet, He invites us for the sake of the Lord Jesus.

We do not here on earth enter God’s palace, but even now He will give each of us the place of His own child, if we believe His Words. We. will no longer fear Him, but we will love Him as the lame man loved King David.

“We love Him because He first loved us.” John 4:19, also read Gospel of John 1:12 and Ephesians 2:4-10.

How old was this boy when he became lame? (2 Sam. 4:4). Read this story in your Bible.

ML 12/04/1938

Praying Always

A little girl who knew and loved the Lord Jesus, was in the habit of praying at bedtime. Her mother, who was a Christian, had taught her to bring her little troubles to the Lord, in the full confidence that He would guide and help her.

One day she told her mother she wished that it was night so that she might pray, thinking that this was the only time that prayer was in order. She was told that she could pray at any time. We do not know what this dear child had on her mind, but we feel sure that it was pleasing to the Lord to hear the prayer of the trusting little heart. God encourages His children to “pray always,” and “pray without ceasing.”

If we wanted to ask anything of our earthly parents, we would go to them at any time or place, and they would doubtless help us as far as they were able.

We should be just as free in asking anything of our heavenly Father, and we know that His power and wisdom are without end. And not only this, but His love is boundless.

What a wonderful privilege we have of going to God, in the name of the Lord Jesus, and telling Him all that is on. our hearts, knowing that He hears us, and will give us all that He sees is best for us to have.

“WHATSOEVER YE SHALL ASK THE FATHER IN MY NAME, HE WILL GIVE IT YOU.” John 16:23.

ML 12/11/1938

The Temptation

PART 5

Having nothing more to say I went to my work. You can imagine what my feelings were as I sat all the forenoon, I thought of my dear parents, the difficulties they were in, how I had promised them to do all I could. But what could I do? The Lord comforted me. His word, ‘I will never leave thee nor forsake thee,’ was very consoling to me and quieted the loud beating of my heart. Noon hour came on. I took courage to speak to my employer. In a few words I told him of the trouble my parents were in, and asked him if he would pay me part of my salary in advance that I might help them. He answered in a harsh and unfriendly way as usual, and refused to grant my desire, and left the office.

As I stepped into the hall, the janitor asked me if something unusual had taken place between myself and my employer.

‘Nothing that I am aware of,’ I replied; ‘why do you ask me this question?’

‘Something must have taken place about money matters,’ said the honest old man.

‘I should not have asked you the question only for this, that our employer knows no mercy when his money is involved.’

‘Do not be concerned about me, Joseph. I have not done anything wrong; but will you please explain what you mean?”

‘You see, my dear young friend, there must be some storm approaching,’ said the janitor; ‘late last night he sent me to the police station; and early this morning a detective came to the house. Do not be provoked with me if I have been concerned about you; you are very young, and—the temptation—!’

‘I thank you for your interest in me, but do not be troubled about me anymore, everything is all right,’ was my answer, as I pressed the old man’s hand.

I can tell you, Charles, tears of joy flowed as I left the house. According to the janitor’s story, my employer had discovered his mistake the evening before, and, feeling sure that I could not resist the temptation, had the officer in the house, the following morning, for my arrest. At first, I felt hurt over his conduct, and for sometime could not quiet down. But soon better thoughts came into my heart. I recognized the hand of God in love. My heart was filled with thankfulness and joy, and though everything at home looked dreary for myself and parents, yet I could shout in joy and triumph:

‘The Lord is my helper,’ and ‘I will never leave thee nor forsake thee.’ “Hebrews 13:5,6.

ML 12/11/1938

Ned Johnson

There was a boy in our village named Ned Johnson; he was an orphan, and had been brought up from his birth by people who did not love him, and who took no trouble to teach him anything that was good.

At the time I first knew Ned he was ringleader of all the bad boys in the neighborhood, and the first in any mischief they committed. Having heard the sad story of his life, I was much interested in him, and so determined, with God’s help to try and lead him to the Saviour; hoping, at the same time, to win some of his companions also. It was a difficult task, but I knew that “there is nothing too hard for the Lord,” so I did not despair of success. I watched for an opportunity of speaking with Ned alone, and, after talking to him kindly for some time, I asked him if he would come to my class on Sunday afternoon.

Ned laughed, and said I need not expect to catch him inside the Sunday school, for that he would never go there, and, before I could say another word, he had jumped over the fence, and was gone.

For some time after that, my efforts to see him again were quite useless, but one morning, having gone for a walk before breakfast, through a neighboring wood, I thought I heard a groan, so I turned from the path to discover whence it came. At the foot of a tall, old tree I saw a boy lying upon the ground, and going up to him, found a broken bird’s nest crushed in his hand, and guessed what had happened to him. The injured boy was Ned Johnson. I found that I could not carry him, so I called a man who was working in a field close by to help me. We took him to the cottage of dear old Matty, a Christian woman, who I knew would nurse him kindly, and then I went for a doctor.

Ned’s injuries were great, and it was very long before he was even well enough to talk, or to listen to me. I was with him a great deal, and often sat up with him at night to rest old Matty.

One night Ned opened his eyes, after a long term of unconsciousness. He recognized me, and asked me how I came there, but seemed too weak to say more. The next day, when I went in to see him, he said old Matty had been telling him what care I had taken of him; and he said he could not think why I should do so much for a bad boy like him.

I told him that there was One who had done far more for him than I had.

“Who is that?” he asked.

“You have been lying at death’s door for the past few weeks,” I replied, “and God has been very good to you; He knew you were not prepared to die, so He has spared you yet for a season, that you may turn to Him.”

“Yes,” he answered, “that was good of Him, and it was more than you could do.”

“But he has done more than that,” I said.

“What?” he asked, looking up at me wonderingly,

“He has given His own only Son to die for sinners, to bear their punishment, that they may be forgiven, and go and live with Him in His own bright home in heaven.”

“No, surely that’s a mistake; He don’t want the likes of me there,” answered Ned.

I did not reply to him, but took my Bible and read passage after passage to prove what I had said, and when I had finished, Ned’s eyes were full of tears, and he had evidently understood it all.

“Can you not believe that He loves you?” I asked; but there was no answer, so I went on reading. When I stopped again, he said,

“It seems too good to think that Jesus should do so much for such a fellow as me;” then, turning to me, he said, “I never knew before all that you have been telling; I don’t think I should have been so bad if I had known it all, but I will live for Him now if He will help me.”

His after life proved the reality of his conversion.

“God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.

ML 12/11/1938

The Power of a Smile

One day, recently, a lady was crossing a certain station, when an old man stopped her and said:

“Excuse me ma’am, but I want to thank you for something.”

“Thank me,” exclaimed the lady.

“Yes, ma’am. I used to be ticket collector at B., and whenever you used to go by you always gave me a cheerful smile and a good morning, and you do not know what a difference it made to me. Wet or fine it was always the same, and I thought to myself, wonder where she gets that smile from; one cannot be always happy, yet she seems to be, and I knew that smile came from inside.

“Then one morning you came by, and you had a little Bible in your hand, and I said to myself, perhaps that is where she gets her smile from. As I went home that night I bought a Bible, and have been reading it, and have found Christ, and now I can smile, too, and I want to thank you.”

“Who so trusteth in the Lord, happy is he.” Prov. 16:20.

For Thou exceedest all the fame

Our ears have ever heard;

How happy we who know Thy name,

And trust Thy faithful Word.

ML 12/11/1938

A Son Who Wanted His Father's Place

PART 1

2 Samuel, chapters 15:16,17

King David had given his sons places of rule, and they should have been happy as king’s sons (2 Sam. 6:18). But one of them wanted more.

He wanted to be king himself, although he must have known that the Lord had given that place to his father.

This young man’s name was Absalom. He was a very handsome person, and much praised by all the people. He went to the city gate, where people in those times talked over any business, and he told the men how much better their affairs would be settled if only he were ruler. You see he was proud and boastful.

One day he told his father he wanted to go to Hebron to keep a promise to the Lord. But this was not true, for he went there to make himself the king. And he sent word over all the land of Israel that lie was king, and many went to him.

When David heard what his son had done, he feared Absalom would come to kill him. We are not told if David asked the Lord what to do in this trouble, but anyway he took his family and left Jerusalem.

Many people wanted David for king, and they followed him, but it was a sad time and all went weeping. They crossed the brook and went up the hill toward the wilderness beyond. As they went, one man, who did not like David, walked along the hillside and threw stones and dust at David and his men, calling out evil against him. But there were others who showed David kindness and brought food for him and mules to ride on.

At first the priests came after David with the ark of God, but David told them to return to the city, and said if God blessed him He would bring him back again, and he told them to send word by their sons of all he needed to know.

Soon Absalom came to Jerusalem and made a plan to take an army to go after his father to kill him—a dreadful plan for a son to make!

The two sons of the priests started to go to warn David of this plan, but a boy saw them going and he told Absalom, who sent men to take them.

But the two young men had hidden down in a man’s well, and a woman there spread a cover over the well and put ground corn on it as though it were drying, and no one could see there was a well. The men came but could not find them any place, so they returned to the city. Then the young men got out of the well and ran to David and told him to go quickly across the river Jordan. So those two young men risked their lives to help David.

David and all with him crossed the river Jordan that same night and camped on the other side in what seems to have been a wild land. Many came there to be with him and brought much food that they should not suffer from hunger, and also brought beds and dishes.

Later Absalom with a great army, came across the river, but God did not let him kill David, because God knew who should be the king.

“Man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7.

Read the list of things brought to David (2 Sam. 17:28,29).

ML 12/11/1938

Edith and the Snowflakes

“Come, look at the snowflakes, mother,

So pure and white and fair!

They are falling all around us,

And resting everywhere.

No leaves are seen in the garden,

The snow has covered all;

I think I should never weary

Watching the snowflakes fall.

“To me they seem just like treasures,

Strewn by some unseen hand;

By one who delights to spread them

Upon both sea and land.

I wonder not that their beauty

Is far too fair to last,

For their pure and dazzling brightness

Can never be surpassed.”

“The snowflakes are pretty, Edith,

And pure, and fair, and white;

But I know of something fairer—

More spotless in God’s sight,

I’ll tell you about it, darling,

For you would like to know

How ought on earth can be fairer

Than e’en the pure white snow.

“He saw we were lost and guilty,

So He devised a plan,

By which to bring full salvation

To sinful ruined man.

God sent down His Son from heaven,

He spared Him from His side;

And that we may be forgiven,

The blessed Saviour died.

“Yes darling, He came to save us

By dying on the tree;

And He bore the awful judgment

Bore it for you and me,

By His blood has made atonement

For all who will believe

And He waits today to bless us,

If we His Word receive.

“His blood is so precious, Edith,

It cleanses from all sin,

And it leaves the soul as spotless,

As though no stain had been.

It is fit for God’s own presence,

Christ’s blood has made it so;

The soul that has trusted Jesus,

Is whiter far than snow.”

“WASH ME AND I SHALL BE WHITER THAN SNOW.” Psalms 51:7.

ML 11/18/1938

The Temptation

PART 6

With folded hands the aged man sat in long and solemn silence, which his youthful listener dared not to interrupt.

“With such thoughts in my mind, I passed on through the streets, not knowing which way to turn. All at once, I felt a hand on my shoulder, and on turning, I found at my side, the manly form of Mr. W—at whose house, I had, the evening before paid the last account. With a kind smile he stretched out his hand and saying as he did so,

‘You have given me a long chase, my young friend, I have followed you from High street, and was not able to get near you till now.’

‘From High street!’ I said, astonished.

‘Yes, I was near your office when you stepped out, but in your haste you did not observe me. Joseph, the old janitor, informed me that you had gone to your dinner. But how does it come that you are not homeward bound?’

‘I do not intend to dine today,’ I replied.

‘I beg to differ with you,’ said he smiling. ‘Chasing after you through the streets has given me an appetite; moreover, I want to have a little talk with you, and therefore, I ask you to accompany me.’

Saying this, he took me by the arm, leading me back to the city, where we were soon seated at a table loaded with tempting food.

Having satisfied our appetites, Mr. W—began: ‘And now, my dear young friend, I trust you will be open and honest with me, and to make it easy for you, I will meet you with openness and honesty.’ He then told me that on the evening before, while I was in his room, thinking myself to be alone, he had seen me hide the hundred dollar bill in haste in my pocket.

‘I thought immediately,’ continued he, ‘ah; something is wrong with this young man. But I followed you, thinking you would enter some saloon; I was mistaken about this, and so followed you to your parents’ house. What to do then I was not clear about, but waited for you to come out again. Soon my hopes were realized, and you started for the bakery. Here, I thought, he will have the bill changed. Again I was in error, for I was close enough to see that you paid with some small coin. From your countenance I could see that you were unhappy. I made inquiry about you in the neighborhood, and then returned home. But I could not dismiss you from my thoughts and a could not sleep. I kept turning in my bed. I thought, perhaps, the cares of this life press on this youth; he may be in need, and in a weak moment had listened to the enemy, and stretched out his hand after that which was not his own. This thought was torture to me. Much wrought up, I left my bed; and do you know what I did? I went down on my knees and cried to the Lord that you might be preserved and sustained.”

“God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” 1 Corinthians 10:13.

ML 12/18/1938

"This Very Night"

Many of my readers are Christians, I know, and love the Lord Jesus very much for what He has done for them on the cross, and so they are anxious that all those around them should know of His love, especially mother and father, if they are not Christians.

I am going to tell you of a little boy who loved the Lord Jesus, and so did his mother, but although he had a dear, kind father, he was not a Christian, and the little boy was very anxious that he, too, should know the Lord Jesus, who was such a dear Friend to his mother and him.

One day a Christian lady called on his mother, and after speaking for a little while about the wonderful love of Jesus in dying for them, they had prayer together, and the little boy heard his mother pray that her husband would be saved. When the mother finished praying, he, too, prayed that his “father might be saved this very night.” He was so anxious for his father to know his Saviour.

Soon after this, he went to bed, and then father came home. After kissing his little boy “good night,” he, too, went to bed, but the Lord had heard the little boy’s prayer, for though his father went to bed, he could not sleep.

The Lord showed him his sins, and his need of a Saviour; and he saw his sins rise up black and high before him. At last, rising from bed, he knelt down and his dear wife beside him, and he prayed for mercy and that the Lord would save his soul. Soon after this, he found peace and joy in believing, for Jesus has said,

“Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out,” so, in the morning, the dear boy had the joy of knowing his father had been “saved this very night.”

The Lord may not always see fit to answer our prayers so quickly. Sometimes He lets us wait, but, dear children, do not be discouraged; God will answer your prayer as He did this dear boy’s, in His own time. Just bring “everything to God in prayer.” Remember, He is listening, and He will bring in blessing, if we only wait on Him, for He has said,

“Ask, and ye shall receive.”

“Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My Name; ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.” John 16:24.

ML 12/18/1938

Only a Penny

It is wonderful what a penny given by each of God’s true people, old and young, would do, to bring the Gospel to the millions who sit in darkness and the shadow of death. The pennies of a number of saved children given to a missionary, going to a heathen land, enabled him to give to each native in the village where he lived, a Bible. Many of the villagers have been truly converted, and even among those who are not in heart the Lord’s, the Bible has a power and exerts a wonderful influence.

Only a penny I heard them say,

A penny for Jesus if given each day,

Would send the Gospel to every soul

Now sitting in darkness from pole to pole.

Only a penny from every one,

Who bears the name of God’s dear Son.

Only a penny from young and old,

From the lambs of Christ within the fold,

From orphans and widows and all who share,

The love of God, and the Shepherd’s care.

Only a penny from every one

Who is cleansed by the blood of God’s clear Son.

Only a penny to show our love

For Him who left His home above

To die for the world, and whose last command

Was “Preach the Gospel in every land.”

Only a penny from every one

Will send the Gospel of ‘God’s dear Son.

Only a penny, from day to day,

As the years go by, and we haste away

To the glory land, where a ransomed band,

Shall be gathered to Christ out of every land:

All saved by grace, their hearts were won,

By believing the Gospel of God’s dear Son.

“He which soweth sparingly, shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully, shall reap also bountifully.” 2 Corinthians 9:6.

“God loveth a cheerful giver.” 2 Corinthians 9:7.

ML 12/18/1938

A Son Who Wanted His Father's Place

PART 2

2 Samuel 18

The Captains of David’s army made ready to go against Absalom’s army, but they asked ‘David to stay in the place where they had camped. He gave them orders to do no harm to Absalom, for David loved his son very much, even when he was so wrong.

It was in a great forest that the two armies met, and ever so many were lost there. Absalom was riding on a mule through these thick woods when his long heavy hair became caught in the branches of a great oak tree. The mule went out from under him, leaving its master hanging from the tree by his hair, He had seemed to have been vain of his heavy hair, and had it cut but once a year, then weighed it; but now it caused his death.

A man who saw him hanging from the tree told David’s chief captain. This man knew the king’s command, but he was a cruel man, and taking his arrows he shot Absalom and put his body in a pit, covering it with a big heap of stones. Then he blew the trumpets for the battle to stop.

Two men ran to tell David, where he was waiting at the gate for news of the battle. He asked at once about his son, and when he learned he was dead, he sorrowed greatly and there was no joy over winning that battle.

This story of Absalom is a very sad one. He had once said he would serve the Lord, but he did not. He might have been king after David if he had done right and waited, for he was the oldest son at that time. The Lord did not honor him in Israel, as He could not honor the evil sons of Eli and Samuel, even though the fathers were good men, because the sons were not honest, and did very wicked things.

David and his family and all the soldiers crossed the Jordan river and returned to Jerusalem. And David was king over all Israel until the end of his life.

The man who had thrown stones at David went to meet him as he returned, and told him he knew he had sinned.

You can find how David and all the company got across the Jordan river (2 Sam. 19:18).

ML 12/18/1938

The Forbidden Fruit

The children in today’s picture are helping themselves to the good things in the basket. Hungry, and seeing food that looks so good, they cannot resist the temptation to take some. They ought to be taking it home to mother instead. She would then give them their share. But they are just like many other children, and older people too, who sometimes yield to temptation.

Adam and Eve, the first man and woman who ever lived in this big world, were tempted to eat the fruit God had told them not to eat. They disobeyed God, and had to be put out of the garden of Eden.

As Adam brought death into the world, so Christ has brought salvation and life eternal to all who believe in Him.

“HE THAT HEARETH MY WORD, AND BELIEVETH ON HIM THAT SENT ME, HATH EVERLASTING LIFE, AND SHALL NOT COME INTO CONDEMNATION; BUT IS PASSED FROM DEATH UNTO LIFE.” John 5:24.

I trust that many of you young readers have accepted God’s wonderful gift, and know Jesus as your Saviour.

If you know Him and love Him, you will try to please Him. You will ask Him to keep you from temptation, and make you obedient children,—not doing the things that would displease your parents, as the children in the picture are doing.

ML 12/25/1938

The Temptation

PART 7

CHARLES! I will never be able to describe to you how I felt at that moment. Here was a stranger, but a brother in the Lord, who in that hour of temptation prayed for me when I was alone and felt so forsaken. I was deeply moved and could only say;

‘Do you mean, Mr. W— that you prayed for me at that time?”

‘Yes,’ was his reply, ‘the Lord had laid it on my heart, and, I doubt not, heard my cries. But I have not yet finished telling you. This morning I went to the house of your parents, and later on to your landlord, and the latter promised to wait two weeks longer with the selling of the furniture. After this I hastened to High street, feeling still uneasy about you. The rest you know. And now I beg of you to be open to me, tell me all your experience, and what you have gone through. How much I am interested in you and your welfare you can see, and therefore tell me all.’

How could I close my heart to such a man as this? I told him the whole account, for I felt I had found in him a real friend. He was indignant when he learned how my employer had acted.

‘How much is your salary?’ he asked me. After telling him he said, ‘Would you like to take a position in which you could earn double the amount you have named?’

You will easily understand, dear Charles, with what joy T would accept such an offer. Then after a pause in which Mr. W— seemed to reflect, he said,

‘I have never made it my business to meddle in other peoples’ affairs; but in this case it seems to be unavoidable. Will you please wait a little here till my return? I’ll excuse you to your employer.’

With hasty steps he left the room, to return again after about a half hour’s absence. With a friendly smile he reached his hand to me, saying as he did so,

‘You need not go back to your office. Come to me tomorrow and I will give you employment. And now go quickly to your parents’ house, take also this hundred dollar bill which your employer has given me for you. God speed, till tomorrow.’

So saying, my friend disappeared, while I stood on the spot amazed. I felt as if a ton weight had been removed from me. With hasty steps I went home. I could have shouted aloud, and desired to tell all whom I passed how the Lord had dealt with me. Arriving at home, what glad surprise awaited me there! The selling of the furniture had indeed been postponed for two weeks; moreover, Mr. W— had ordered a large stock of provision to be sent to the house, so that instead of being in need, we had abundance.

Truly the Lord had shown that His arm. was not shortened. He gave more than we could ask or think. How great is His love!

And now, dear Charles, my story is ended. Many years I remained, as you know; with my benefactor; first as his bookkeeper; then as a partner in his business, and finally as his son-in-law.

And now, my dear Charles, the Lord grant that when temptations of this world, and the devil come near you, you may be kept by the power of His grace.

“If any man suffer as a Christian, let him not be ashamed; but let him glorify God on this behalf,” 1 Peter 4:16.

ML 12/25/1938

I Don't Know Him

A beautiful young mother in New York City returning to the building in which her little infant lay asleep was appalled to see the building in flames. The firemen could not restrain her and she dashed through the flames and rescued her child, but in doing so, she was so severely burned that her face was horribly disfigured for life. When she looked at her face in the glass after it was healed, she was shocked at her disfigurement, but was comforted by the thought that when her little daughter grew up, she would appreciate the sacrifice that her mother had made to rescue her. The child did grow up to be a young woman of uncommon beauty. She was much admired and petted.

One day there was an excursion up the river, and both mother and daughter went. The beautiful daughter was on the front deck surrounded by a host of admirers, laughing and talking. The disfigured mother was on the rear deck looking after the wraps and other things. The mother had occasion to go to the front deck to speak to her daughter. As she drew near, a gay young man asked the beautiful girl, “Who, is that hideous looking woman coming?” In a low tone the beautiful daughter said, “I don’t know.”

But the words were not so low but what the mother caught them and that loving heart was broken by the gross ingratitude of the daughter for whom she had sacrificed so much.

How we shudder at the thought of such awful ingratitude, but are we not guilty of a grosser ingratitude towards our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ? His visage was more marred than any man’s, and His form more than the sons of men, and yet how many today are ashamed of Him and say,

“I do not know Him.”

“Whosoever shall be ashamed of Me and My words, of him shall the Son of Man be ashamed, when He shall come in His own glory, and in His Father’s, and of the holy angels.” Luke 9:26.

ML 12/25/1938

The Little Children's Saviour

The Little Children’s Saviour

Jesus Said: Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God ... And He took them up in His arms, put His hands upon them, and blessed them.” Mark 10:14,16.

Little babes with Jesus resting,

Nothing know of sin or care;

Naught of sorrow they are tasting,

Naught of pain or sickness there.

Every trouble left behind them,

Never to be felt again,

If remembered, would remind them

Of their great and endless gain:

Of their first and fallen nature,

Far from God and born in sin;

And how such a ruined creature

God to heaven could welcome in.

Babes who have not known transgression,

Yet are helpless, hopeless, lost:

But to make them His possession

Jesus paid a priceless cost.

Happy babes! with Jesus resting,

Safely on His bosom laid;

Nothing ever there molesting,

Nothing there to make afraid.

How they love their tender Saviour,

Thank Him for His precious blood,

And for such a home forever,

Home of pleasures there with God.

ML 12/25/1938

Faith

A poor woman, a widow, being unable to procure sufficient work to support herself and her little ones, theirs seemed to be a very hard lot.

She had, however, been led to put her trust in the Lord: not only for eternity, but also for time, and soon her faith was to be tested.

One night she was obliged to put her children to bed without any supper, for there was no food in the house. The next morning she proposed to them to take a walk to the top of the Fort. Having ascended the hill, the children dispersed to play, leaving their mother reading her Bible.

As they were returning home, a lady passed, who asked the woman how she was, and then slipped some money into her hand, and walked rapidly away. The poor mother had told no one but the Lord that she needed help, and she trusted Him to send it at the right time.

O, that the Lord’s people were more trustful, moan confident that their Father was doing the best thing for them and with them.

“Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you: for every one that asketh, receiveth; and he that seeketh, fineth; and to him that knocketh, it shall be opened.” Matthew 7:7,8.

ML 12/25/1938

The Last Days of King David

1 Chronicles, chapters 22-29

David was king over Israel many years and was loved by the people. He had wanted very much to have a beautiful house, or temple, built in Jerusalem where all should come to worship the Lord. But instead the Lord had said his son Solomon, who would be king after him, should build such a temple.

But in his last days, David sent for the chief men and the people to come together, so he could tell them his wishes for the temple, and said for them to help Solomon in all the work. He spoke of the great stones already cut for the walls, and much cedar wood ready for the inside, with much iron for the nails and bars; brass, marble, gold, silver, and precious stones, for this was to be a very grand house.

David rejoiced that the people had already been so willing to give, and we will learn of that great building later, the Lord willing.

David also spoke to Solomon to keep all God’s words, and he said God had said to him:

“He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God” 2 Samuel 23:3.

Although David did not build the temple, yet he left a greater work, for very many of the songs and prayers we have in our Bibles were written by David, and have been read and sung and enjoyed by people ever since, and have been a great comfort and a help to all. He loved to praise the Lord and wanted others to know Him, He said:

“O taste and see that the Lord is good, blessed is the man that trusteth in Him.” Psalms 34:8.

David’s life teaches us to trust in the Lord, and to ask His help whatever our trouble. He said the Lord was his rock, his fortress, his deliverer, his shield, his horn of salvation, his high tower, his refuge, and his lamp (2 Sam. 22:2,3,29).

It was from the family of ‘David that Jesus was born into this world, many years after David.

David makes us think of the life of the Lord Jesus, who took the humble place and was obedient. Yet David sometimes sinned and forgot God’s words, while the Lord Jesus did no sin, but was perfect in all His ways.

How long was David king of Israel? (1 Kings 2:11).

Look over the Psalms in your Bible and see if you do not find many marked “A Psalm of David.” Perhaps you could choose one you could learn. Many boys and girls have learned the 103rd Psalm, although it is quite long. David wrote much of the One to be the Great King not only of Israel, but of the whole earth.

“Who is this King of Glory? The Lord of Hosts, He is the King of Glory.” Psalms 24:10.

ML 12/25/1938

Messages of God's Love: 1938

Table of Contents

A New Year's Greeting

Answers to Bible Questions for November

Taken or Left

"Who Hath Created These Things"

Two Mountains in Canaan

All Things Are Ready

Kindness

When Boys and Girls Are Like Stars

How Robert Got His Dog Back

Little Harold and the Snow

The Song of Moses

The Snow

"Today"

Songs in the Night

The Happy Cripple Boy

"Papa, Mamma, I"

The Death of Moses

Wolves

Jack and the Waves

The Captive Indian Boy

The Writings of Moses

The Wrong Man

"Have You Such Love for the Bible?"

"Whose Boy Am I?"

The Price of a Chinese Boy

What the Boys and Girls Saw

Answers to Bible Questions for December

Trust

Harold and Willie

"My Precious Bible"

God's Wonderful Works

What the Boys and Girls Saw

Now

The Lighthouse

"That Was Me"

One of His Lambs

John 3:16

Joshua, the New Leader of Israel

A Christian or a Sinner?

The First Lesson

Bennie's Faith

Don't Forget Your Lantern

"I Am a Sinner"

The Value of a Name

A House on a Wall

Rahab's Scarlet Line

The Crocodile

"I Do Love You, Mother!"

"His Right Name"

A Sunday School Class

Crossing a Wide River

Answers to Bible Questions for January

How Little Willie Became a Preacher

Do You Know the Lord?

A Mother's Love

Stones from the River

Trusting Jesus, Only

Jerusalem From the Mount of Olives

God's Care for the Shepherd Boy

God Loves Sinners

The Beginning in the New Land

Abraham and Isaac

A Little Ship was on the Sea

The Schoolboy's Prayer

Do You Want to be Saved?

Little Elsie

The Great Captain of Israel

The Shepherd

What Is Real Prayer?

The Officer's Mistake

The Bright and Blessed Day

"Plenty of Time for a Boy Like Me"

How a City's Walls Fell

Is the Bible True?

Answers to Bible Questions for February

Guarded by God

"Able to Keep"

Deer