How often we use the word only! “It is only for a little,” “only once,” and so on; and how often the thought that only a little longer and we shall be with the Lord cheers on the believer. Again, looking ahead, and taking thought for the morrow, as we often do in spite of Matthew 6:34, how often we find what we dreaded most, was only meant for our blessing!
Many things too we dread are only blessings in disguise.
Standing a while ago by the deathbed of a young woman dying of consumption, I said to her, by way of comfort, “It is only to be with Christ,” alluding to her death, which took place that day. “Ah,” said she, “that is a great only.” I was struck with the words, and have thought since how true. It is indeed a great only.
Reader, have you ever thought of death like that? As only to be with Christ? Have you ever thought of what that only involves? “In Thy presence is fullness of joy,” we find in Psalm 16:11. To be with Christ, is to have every wish, every desire, satisfied.
Again, it is only the blood of Jesus can give you a title to heaven, or make you fit to go there (1 John 1:7). It is only through His name you can be saved (Acts 4:10-12). It is only sinners Jesus saves (Luke 5:32). It was God’s only begotten Son who died on the cross (John 3:16), that not only we might not perish, but have everlasting life. And, in conclusion, I would say to any poor doubting sinner, what the Lord said to Jairus in Mark 5:36, “Be not afraid, only believe.”