Oliver Cromwell's secretary was dispatched to the Continent on some important business. He stayed one night at a seaport town, and tossed on his bed, unable to sleep.
According to old custom, a servant slept in his room, and on this occasion, soundly enough. The secretary at length awakened the man, who asked how it was his master could not rest.
"I am so afraid something will go wrong with the embassage," was the reply.
"Master," said the valet, "may I ask you a question or two?”
"To be sure," answered the envoy.
"Did God rule the world before we were born?”
"Most assuredly He did.”
"And will He rule it after we are dead?" "Certainly He will.”
"Then, master, why not let Him rule the present, too?”
The secretary's faith was stirred, peace was the result, and in a few minutes both he and his servant were in a sound sleep.
Beloved in Jesus, your heart has been aching within you. You were busy at work for the Master; many depended upon you. You seemed almost to be the mainspring of the machinery. But sickness comes, and you lie helpless on the couch, and unbelief creeps in. Dear friend, let God rule the present. He allows your affliction. He sits by the refiner till He can see His own image formed in you, and there is some gracious purpose to be accomplished in the present dispensation.
THIS IS MY BLOOD OF
THE NEW TESTAMENT,
WHICH IS SHED
FOR MANY
FOR THE REMISSION
OF SINS"
"IT IS THE BLOOD
THAT MAKETH
AN ATONEMENT
FOR THE SOUL."