IN the early spring of 1907, while waiting for a conveyance, I picked up a piece of waste paper. It proved to be a page of a magazine containing a short record of Christian experience. The writer told how he had been arrested by the words, “HAVE FAITH IN GOD” (Mark 11:2222And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God. (Mark 11:22)). He was so deeply impressed, and so greatly blessed through these few words, that he wrote them on every page of his Bible, so that whenever he read the Scriptures he might be reminded of this great truth and the important lesson he had been taught.
Before this, in his service for Christ, he had been unduly influenced by atmosphere, numbers, music, antecedents, and other things which appealed to the senses; but henceforth he became more steadfast, more independent of outward appearances, and more persistently earnest in seeking the glory of God in Jesus Christ alone.
The incident, and the words especially, deeply impressed me. I had often been helped by them, but they came home to my heart at that time as a special message from God, and, as subsequent events have proved, a most timely message also. Since then I have often had them ringing in my mind, making music in my heart, leading me to look to God alone, and to endure as seeing Him Who is invisible. It is difficult to express in words the thoughts that have been helpful in spiritual life, yet I will try and state very briefly the reflections that have been, through the Holy Spirit, so very helpful to me.
Have faith in God alone. God only is; and there is none beside Him. All others owe their existence to Him, and are dependent upon His will. Men and methods, institutions and organizations, gifts and callings are nothing, only as He is above all, in all, and through all. On this ground He alone claims our confidence. “My soul, wait thou only upon God.” Have faith in God at all times. In seasons of loneliness, trial, affliction, loss and bereavement; when all things dark appear; when cisterns are broken and creatures all fail; in every condition and under all circumstances, Jesus bids you “Have faith in God.” He remaineth; His lovingkindness changeth not; His word liveth and abideth forever. Therefore, like Abraham, believe in hope even against hope.
Have faith in God now. I have often been helped by the present tense of the familiar words, God is love. He loves this moment, every moment, eternal love includes all time and all times. For present need in service or suffering, in worship, for present claims and responsibilities, count upon a faithful God. Believe that He is with you always, caring for you and keeping you every moment.
Have faith in God absolutely. Trust Him utterly. Trust Him with all and for all. God in Jesus Christ gives Himself to you without reserve. He rejoices over you to do you good with His whole heart. He is worthy of your whole-hearted confidence. Faith honors Him and is well-pleasing to Him. Let there be no reserve in your confidence, so will you come into full harmony with Him, and be kept in perfect peace. O. T.