Messages of God's Love: 1910

SEE what else I have brought you,” said a young man to his wife, holding up a plain bound book, as he had just returned from a long journey. “Guess first what it is,” he continued smiling, when his young wife stretched out her hand for the book.

“How can I guess, August? There is such an immense variety of books in Paris.”

“Nevertheless, you must guess first.” “Well, then, I guess the latest novel of one our best writers.”

Her husband laughed heartily. “If you had said the oldest book in the world, you would have come nearer the truth. Look here.” With this he handed her the book.

August R. had not been married very long. He was a rich nobleman, possessing a beautiful country place near a village in southern France. On his journey, he had come to Paris and spent several days there buying many fine and costly presents for his much-loved wife. The large table in the drawing room was loaded with precious things, and among all these the plain looking book which Mr. R. had just unwrapped and handed to his wife.

Laughing, she shook her head and said: “But August, how did you get the idea to buy this book?”

“I couldn’t say why I bought it. I saw it in the book store where I bought the other books and I bought it too.”

“O, what an idea?” repeated Mrs. R. “Such an old-time book, that nowadays no one reads, except the ministers.”

“And even they,” interrupted August, “do not believe its contents any more. There must be some queer things in it.”

“And, besides, it makes people downhearted and sad, some say,” added his wife.

“Well, my dear, we will not trouble children they must be up too, ready for breakfast, and then off to school they go.

Here we are in the early part of the year 1911, the first month, January, the

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and able to make one wise unto salvation, was a closed book to them. But when at last they had in their possession that precious treasure, they put it in the bookcase as a queer book of ancient times.

Many months have past since that book found its way into the home of Mr. R. We find him alone in his library, his heart full of sorrow, fear and care. Death had knocked at his door and broken a little bud which had lived but a few days. The firstborn son, whose arrival had been hailed with great joy, had died. But a far greater loss was threatening. The young mother was very ill, and today the physician had said his skill was at an end, and that he had very little hope of her recovery. There the poor man sat without hope, comfortless. Very likely, inside of a few days or even hours the joy of his life would be forever spoiled. The loss of his child had grieved him very much, but the thought of losing his dear wife was unbearable. He saw and heard nothing; in his heart raged bitter despair. Alas, the One who was able to comfort him, he did not know. Then in this moment of deepest trial, his eyes rested on that book which had stood for months in the bookcase. Why was it that at this moment that book should attract his attention? What had his wife said of the book? “It makes one downhearted and sad.” Was it this that attracted him so? Did he hope to find in this sad book feelings similar to his own? Was this influence from above? Was it the beginning of one of those hidden, divine threads which the love of God employs to draw and unite souls to Himself? We know not, neither did the young nobleman know, but it is a fact that a few moments later he had the Bible in his hands. He opened it at random here and there. All at once his eyes were attracted to a place where he read: “Man that is born of a woman is of few days, and full of trouble. He cometh forth like a flower, and is cut down: he fleeth also as a shadow, and continueth not. And dost thou open thine eye upon such an one, and bringest me into judgment with thee? For there is hope of a tree, if it be cut down, that it will sprout again, and that the tender branch will not cease. But man dieth, and wasteth away: yea, man giveth up the ghost, and where is he? If a man die shall he live again?” Job 14.

Indignantly the young man shut the book. That’s enough. Rosa is right, that book does not deserve any consideration. It is bad enough that death is to come some time, but to remind the man in such a rude manner of the uncertainty of life and hopelessness of death is just shameful! So thought our poor friend: but the arrow had hit the mark. This day passed and the following. His wife, Rosa, was still living, but her condition unchanged. No one was allowed to see her, not even her own husband. Again he sat in his library, the sorrows of death were tormenting him. “If a man die, shall he live again?” This question had been troubling him, and he was not able to shake it off. Until now, he had thought that after death all was over. “Let us eat and be merry, for tomorrow we die,” had been his motto. Enjoy life as much and as long as possible, and at last meet courageously the inevitable, he had said, but when the inevitable had come so soon, he lacked both courage and strength to bear it.

“If a man die, shall he live again?” He wished he had never read these words, and yet it seemed to him as though some power was drawing him towards that book. It was not long before the Bible was again before him. He read and read on: hour after hour went by; midnight came and even the morning light found Mr. R. still reading the Bible. Then he laid down to rest, but found none. That night passed by and the following, without any change in the condition of the sick wife, but on the morning of the third day the physician entered the library with hopeful news: “The crisis is over. Take courage Mr. R., your wife is, as far as I can judge, safe. But you must think of yourself; you look ill from sleeplessness.” The doctor was right: the poor man had hardly closed his eyes in all this time.

“May I see my wife now, ‘doctor?” asked Mr. R.

“I am sorry, but you cannot see her today: she is very weak, and it would excite her too much.”

Mr. R., could not sleep, although very much worn out. The reading of the Bible had made a profound impression on him. The first anger had made room for wonder and admiration, and these were followed by deep exercise and self-reproach. Why had he not investigated the matter before? He had accepted the teachings of infidelity without testing them according to the truth. What if they should prove to be false, and the Bible true? At this thought great fear came over him. Yes, God’s word is mighty, it is sharper than any two-edge sword, and so it proved to be in the case of this young nobleman. When alone he was occupied with nothing but that wonderful book. He could riot help it in spite of his constantly increasing fear. He learned to know himself more and more as a transgressor of the holy commandments of God, but had not yet heard of Him who had come to take away the sin of the world.

(To be continued.)

“HE SHALL GATHER THE LAMBS WITH HIS ARM, AND CARRY THEM IN HIS BOSOM.” Isa. 40:11.

Messages of God’s Love 1/1/1911

Morning

HOW beautiful to see the day break! The light quickly spreads over earth and sky, and soon we hear all life stirring itself for the work of the day. Boys and girls must be up too, ready for breakfast, and then off to school they go. Here we are in the early part of the year 1911, the first month, January, the morning of the year. How did 1910 end? Does January, 1911, find you rejoicing in the possession of a loving Saviour who died to save you from sin and Satan’s power? Can you sing:

Poor and feeble though I be,

Saviour I belong to Thee!

Thine I am, Thou Son of God,

Thine the purchase of Thy blood!

The Psalmist says, “Joy (or singing) corneth in the morning.” So, reader, let there be joy over you in this morning of the New Year.

Messages of God’s Love 1/8/1911

The Ancient Book

(Continued.)

The next day he received permission from the physician to see his wife for half an hour as she was now out of danger, although very weak. “August, my poor August,” she whispered, “you have suffered more than I. But I shall not leave you yet, I shall stay with you and we will be very happy together.”

“Never shall I be happy again,” responded August sadly, and when he met the astonished look of his wife, he continued, “do you recollect that I brought a Bible from Paris several months ago?”

“Yes, August; but what about that?”

“When you were so very sick, I could find rest nowhere. I was in a strange state. How it happened I know not, but I began to read in the Bible. Perhaps I did it with the vague hope of finding comfort in this book.”

“And the reading of the book has made you so unhappy? Then we will burn it as soon as possible,” said the patient.

“No, no,” cried Mr. R. “that we will not do.”

“So the book has made you very unhappy? Then it must be a terrible book,” repeated Mrs. R. smiling, thinking it was just a nervous spell. She did not imagine the matter was so serious.

“Let me tell you something.” she continued, “when I get well again, we will read the book together. For if you can never be happy again, then I will be unhappy with you.”

Some weeks passed. The patient made rapid progress. She was able to spend most of the time out of bed. At her request the Bible had been brought into the sick room. Now that her body was growing stronger, she read the book—some times with her husband but more often alone. She had not experienced the fear and dread at the reading of the book that her husband had; but to the astonishment of Mr. R., she was more quiet and peaceful than ever before, and so it was but natural that one day she repeated the former question in a tone of wonder, “So the book has made you very unhappy, August?”

“Then you do not believe in it, Rosa, do you? You think the book does not tell the truth?”

“Do you believe in it, August?”

“I wish I did not,” he answered with a deep sigh. “I can no longer doubt the truth of the book.”

“How is that? You believe it speaks the truth and still you are unhappy. How is this possible?”

“How is this possible? you ask. Well if this book is true and not human invention, then we are both most unhappy people,” said Mr. R., with emphasis.

“No, August, just the contrary. If the book is true, which I do not doubt, then we are both very happy and most blessed people. Yea, happier than I ever hoped to be.”

Mr. R., shook his head. His wife was a riddle to him. Opening the hook, he found the verses which had troubled him so much and showed them to her. “Have you read this, and that, and that?”

Rosa took the book out of his hand and found the verses which spoke of comfort, peace, reconciliation and forgiveness, and said: “But have you not read this, and that, and that? If what God has here promised is true, then we have never yet known what real joy and happiness is.”

“Rosa, do you really believe what this book says?”

“Surely, August; how could I be so happy?”

“Strange,” thought Mr. R., “I believe in that book and it makes me unhappy. Rosa believes in it and is happy.”

“Odd,” thought his wife, “the book makes me so happy, and with my husband, it has just the opposite effect.”

And yet it was not strange. He, through the teaching of God’s holiness and righteousness, had been convinced of his sinfulness and saw nothing before him but terrible judgment.

She, on the contrary; had read less about the holy and righteous demands of God and of the awful threats of the law, but more of the love and grace of God and she rejoiced in the One who had forgiven her sins.

A few days after this, Mr. R. sat again in his library. Previous to this he had read only in the Old Testament, because he considered the New Testament but an appendix to the Old. Having his attention drawn to it by his wife, he now looked through the New Testament. He found several places which described the state of his heart with divine accuracy. With great interest he read on, and what did he find? Ah, it was a real discovery to him, which filled his heart with joy.

He found how God in His unsearchable wisdom and depth of His love had found a way to save such a lost and ruined sinner as he was, and grant him the forgiveness of all his sins, without giving up His holy and righteous character. He read of the offering of God’s only begotten Son, of His death on the cross and the value of His precious blood. Suddenly all was light. In faith he looked on the Cross of Golgotha, and the load of his sins which had laid so long and heavily upon him, vanished like the fog before the sun. He saw that God could be righteous and at the same time justify the sinner that believes in Jesus. His joy was unbounded. Words of thanksgiving and worship came from his lips, and then he hastened to tell his wife the glad news. From that moment a new life began for the young couple. The Good Shepherd had sought and found the two lost sheep, and made them to lie down in green pastures. The book that had been so long ignored, received now the place of honor and first consideration. It became to them a never ceasing spring, from which they drew again and again, blessing, instruction, peace and joy for their hearts and minds.

(To be continued.)

Messages of God’s Love 1/8/1911

The Knowledge of God

No. 1.

“THOU KNOWEST MY DOWN-SITTING AND MINE UPRISING . . . AND ART ACQUAINTED WITH ALL MY WAYS.” Psa. 139:2, 3.

DID you ever think, dear children, just what that means? Did you ever think that God knows just exactly all you do? every single thing? Your parents know a good deal about you; your teacher knows a good deal; your playfellows know a good deal; but God knows ALL. He knows why it took so long for you to go that message, when mother said, “Be quick,” He knows why your lessons were not learned yesterday, He knows that you hurt your little brother or sister. Many things are done in this world, which are never found nut, but God knows all about them, as Job says, “He knoweth the way that I take.”

But not only does He know our ways, He knows our words. “There is not a word in my tongue, but lo, O Lord, Thou knowest it altogether”—every word, the unkind words, the untruthful words, the foolish words, the words spoken in passion, and never thought of again, God knows them all, and He does not forget them. He says, “Every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.” Matt. 12:36.

Yes, God knows all we do and all we say. Is that as far as He goes? Oh, no, deeper than that. Job says in chapter 42:2, “No thought can be withholden from Thee,” and David repeats the same thing, “Thou understandest my thought afar off.” Psa. 139:2. How many thoughts we each one have, which we could not bear our dearest friend to know. We are glad sometimes that no one can guess what we are thinking of, God knows all about them—foolish thoughts, covetous thoughts, thoughts of spite and even hatred. “All things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him, with whom we have to do.” Heb. 4:13.

And yet God knows more than this, more than our ways, our words, our thoughts. He knows our hearts. Hear what the prophet says about it: “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? I the Lord search the heart.” Jer. 17: 9, 10. Perhaps you think that means only the hearts of grown up people. Well, here is another verse, about the heart of a child, “Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child.” Pro. 22:15, and David says, “Thou knowest my foolishness.”

And now, children, do you really believe this, that God knows you, each one of you separately, through and through; that you cannot do, or say, or think any one thing that He does not know all about? And if you do believe it, what effect has it upon you? Are you “In the fear of the Lord all the day long”? Pro. 23:17. If you are a Christian child, are you seeking to please Him in all things? If you are not a Christian, are you afraid when you think that God not only knows, but remembers all you do and say and think, and that some day you must answer to Him for it all? Let me ask you another question, Are you glad that He knows it all? Well, I am, and I will tell you why: In Isaiah, we read, “The Lord hath laid on Him, the iniquity of us all.” Who is meant by Him? Jesus. And who are meant by “us all”? Those who believe in Him. So on the cross God laid upon Jesus our iniquity, and there He was punished for it. Now, if the Lord had not known all the sins, could He have laid them all upon Jesus? If our salvation, depended upon our remembering and confessing our sins, would we not forget a great, great many? But, O, children, is it not a wonderful and blessed thing that God cannot forget one sin, and so everyone was laid upon Jesus, and as He hung there in such terrible suffering, ,bruised and bleeding from the cruel Roman scourging, nails through His blessed hands and feet, a crown of thorns upon His head, mocked and reviled by all around, there, in those hours of darkness, He bore from God the punishment for all my sin, all my bad deeds, all my evil words, all my sinful thoughts. He was “made sin” for me, that I might be made the “righteousness of God in Him.” 2 Cor. 5:21. Children, do you believe this? Do you believe He suffered for all your sins upon the cross? If you do, you are saved, as the little hymn says,

“God who knew them, laid them on Him, And believing, we are free.”

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

“There is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” Acts 4:12.

Messages of God’s Love 1/8/1911

Little Annie's Prayer

LITTLE Annie wept bitterly when she understood that she was a sinner, and therefore not fit to dwell with God in heaven. Her Sunday-school teacher tried to comfort her by saying that Jesus could wash away her sins in His blood, making her whiter than snow.

Annie covered her face with her hands, and was heard to utter these words: “Lord Jesus, I am a poor little sinner; please save me from hell and wash me clean in Thine own blood. Amen.”

Soon her tears ceased to fall, and looking up with a bright face, she said, “Jesus has heard me. He has washed away my sins in His most precious blood. I am made fit for heaven.”

So little Annie believed in Jesus the Lord as her Saviour, and became very happy. Have you, dear child, come to Jesus? If you believe in Him He will make you very glad. He will give you to know the pardon of all your sins and make you quite ready for heaven.

“Jesus calls to little children,

And His words are words of love;

Come to Me, receive My blessing,

Come to Me, and live above.’“

And you, my child, He calls

His glory home to share,

To know and follow Him while here,

And live with Him there,

To make you free from all the sin

And holy, happy, safe with Him.

Messages of God’s Love 1/8/1911

Pilgrims

IN the eleventh chapter of Hebrews we read of many who died in faith, called strangers and pilgrims.

They sought a heavenly country, and God was not ashamed to be called their God for He hath prepared for them a city.

We read that Abraham looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God. Where is that city?

Is the Lord preparing a place for you in that glory?

Had you not better settle this question now? For who knows but the day of grace may soon be over, and your last opportunity of accepting an eternity with Jesus forever gone.

Just as the early settlers of New England, the pilgrims, were in constant danger from the Indians, so you are in constant danger from Satan, the enemy of your souls. Satan tries to have you put off accepting the Lord Jesus Christ now. So, reader, do not delay, but come, while Jesus calls, “to-day, if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts.” Heb. 3:15.

Messages of God’s Love 1/15/1911

The Ancient Book

(Continued.)

One beautiful summer evening, a man appeared on horseback at the village near the home of our friend Mr. R. He was a traveling man, and as he intended to stay overnight in that place, he went to the inn, and asked the keeper, an elderly lady, if he could lodge there. She said she was not prepared for such guests as he was, but the stranger began to beg, and said he was not in the habit of claiming special attention, but would be content with the plainest lodging. It was of no avail: the innkeeper insisted she was not able to take him in.

“What shall I do then?” asked the stranger in a discouraged tone. “I am not able to ride to the next village: my poor horse cannot stand it, and I am all tired out.”

“I will take care of your horse,” said the hostess: “that is not so hard to do.”

“But where shall I go? Can you give me advice? Is there no one in this village who could take me in?”

The innkeeper thought a moment and said suddenly; “Did you notice that large house on the right hand of the road as you came into the village? The owner of the same is a very amiable gentleman. Go and see him: he will gladly take you in.”

The stranger laughed. “Dear lady,” he said, “I thank you for your kind advice, but I cannot knock at a private house and ask for admission. Consider, I am a total stranger to that gentleman.”

“That would not matter,” answered the old lady. “Just go: the gentleman is very hospitable. I know it will give him great pleasure to have you as his guest. But I must tell you one thing: as kind as the man is, he does not seem altogether right up here:” with that she put her hand to her head.

“If I understand you right;” responded the stranger, “the gentleman seems to be suffering from insanity, and in that case I cannot go to him at all.”

“O, no, it isn’t that bad. He will receive you with great kindness, and make no trouble in any way for you, only his conduct will seem queer to you at times, and you may also prepare yourself for some strange questions he may ask. Otherwise he is kindness itself. You could not find a better place to lodge. But what do I see? There he is coming down the road; that is excellent. I will call him at once.”

The obliging hostess motioned for Mr. R. to come over, (for he it was, as the reader no doubt will surmise), and explained the situation to him. She had not exaggerated, for in the most cordial manner he invited the stranger to be his guest. “I will return immediately and take you with me.”

The stranger did not feel too comfortable at the thought that this kind host and his wife, with whom he was to lodge, were somewhat deranged, but he had no other choice: for he was very glad to have shelter for the night, and so he went along with his guide. The guest was shown to his room. A book was lying on the table, and he opened it out of curiosity, and found it to be a French Bible. On the first blank leaf these words were written under the signature of Mr. R.; “I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth.”

“Is it possible,” said the stranger to himself, “that in this secluded and spiritually dead part of the country I have found a believer?” After his bath, etc., he went to the sitting room to be introduced to the mistress of the house. Again the stranger had to admit that the innkeeper had told the truth. Mrs. R. was a lady of very winning ways. It was now supper time, and on the table at Mr. R.’s place lay a book. Just for a moment he seemed to hesitate in embarrassment on account of the visitor, and turned to him with these words; “You have traveled in many countries, have you not?”

“Indeed, sir, I have traveled extensively,” was the answer.

“Then you must have noticed many customs which seem queer to you.”

“Yes, sir; but I have learned to submit to them. That which seems strange and even laughable to the stranger, is to the other a dear custom, from which he would not willingly part.”

“I ask this,” said Mr. R., “because we too have a custom which may seem odd to you, but I hope you will not be offended by it.”

“I beg your pardon sir; I should be a most ungrateful man to be offended at the custom of a home in which I have found such kind reception.”

At a call of the master of the house a door was opened and the servants entered, seating themselves in a circle. Mr. R. read a portion of the word of God, and then all knelt down—the stranger too—and the father thanked the Giver of all good for having graciously preserved them during the past day, and committing his whole household, and also the guest to His keeping. After the servants had left, Mr. R. said to the traveler: “You may have wondered at our custom, but I will relate to you how we came to do so.” He told in brief the story of the Bible as we have related to our readers, and through which he and his wife had been brought to know God as a Saviour-God.

“Since that time,” continued Mr. R., “we have been very happy, and know that the better portion for us is still to come. We consider it therefore our duty, or rather our blessed privilege to tell our friends and acquaintances what blessings we have received from reading that despised book, that they too may have the same blessing. We have told them our experience, and showed them our Bible, and the result has been our best friends have turned their backs on us. Nobody wanted to have anything to do with us. We were branded as heretics and met with ridicule and contempt, but we were happy for we remembered how much our beloved Lord had suffered from the hands of sinful men, and He exhorts His own to take up their cross and follow Him. By and by a change came; when the people saw that we did not recompence evil for evil, but rather showed kindness to our enemies, they were ashamed of their conduct. One after another gave up, and lately we have been able to tell our neighbors what great things the Lord has done for us.

We have a Sunday-school, and every Lord’s Day evening, a few, people, whose heart the Lord has opened, gather here at our house to talk about His great love for us. There are many who think we are not sound in mind; does our guest think so too?”

“Indeed not,” answered the same warmly, while he took hold of Mr. R.’s hand pressing it heartily, “for if you are out of your mind, then I am the same, for I also, through the grace of God, am a Christian.”

Dear reader, can you say the same?

Are you a disciple of the despised Jesus of Nazareth? If so, be faithful in speaking to others of Him.

Messages of God’s Love 1/15/1911

The Knowledge of God

No. 2.

WE were speaking the other day of how God knows everything about us; all we do, or say, or think. To-day, I want to point out a few more verses to you which speak of the knowledge of God. The first two are, “The Lord knoweth them that are His,” 2 Tim. 2:19, and “He knoweth them that trust in Him.” Dear child, does He know you in this way? As you sit in school, can He look down and say, “There is a child who is Mine”? He never makes a mistake, and He never overlooks or forgets one of His own, however small, for the Lord Jesus said when down here, “I know my sheep.” John 10:14. To us a flock of sheep might look each one like the other, but a good shepherd knows every sheep apart, and so the Lord Jesus knows the character of each of His sheep. He knows the bold ones and the timid ones, the strong ones and the weak ones. He knows what is good for each, and puts each one in the place best suited to him, in the place where he can serve Him best, and learn most about Him. And what care the Lord takes of us. How tenderly He watches over us. “Like as a father pitieth his children, so the Lord pitieth them that fear Him, for He knoweth our frame, He remembereth that we are dust.” Poor weak things our bodies are, made of dust, and yet the Lord cares for them.

He knows all about the aches and pains we have; He knows when you have the toothache, or the earache, or when you fall and hurt yourself, or are sick from any cause, and does He care? Yes, even as a Father cares, and He is sorry for you, and ready to comfort you. Don’t be afraid to tell Him all about it, little children. He has a tender love for you, and He only wants to do you good. When the Lord Jesus was down here, He knew well what it was like to be hungry, and weary and thirsty, and so we are told, “We have not an High Priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities, but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” Heb. 4:15, 16.

There is another thing the Lord knows about His children. In Rev. 2 and 3 it is repeated seven times, “I know thy works.” So you see He is looking to see what we each are doing. Are we trying to serve and please Him every day? Do you think a child can do nothing for Jesus? Why, “Even a child is known by His doings,” we read in the Proverbs, and wherever you are, at school, or at home, or at play, you may find opportunities for serving the Lord. There is obedience, which we are told is “well pleasing unto the Lord;” there is a “meek and quiet spirit,” which is in His sight of “great price”; there is the “ruling the spirit” which is “better than taking a city,” there is “the lip of truth which shall be established forever,” and don’t forget that “a soft answer turneth away wrath.” All these things are beautiful ornaments for a Christian child, and ones they may wear every day. But does the Lord love all children? O yes! His watchful care is over every one. Think how He took the little children in His arms when a man down here, and He is just the same now, and longing for the little children to come to Him. “My son, give Me thine heart,”

He is saying to each one; do not put it off. You mean to be a Christian some day, why wait any longer? There is a sad verse in Matt. 25:12, which will be a true one, if you put off too long. There will be a time when, to those who come, the Lord will have to answer, “Verily, I know you not.”

“ACQUAINT NOW THYSELF WITH HIM, AND BE AT PEACE: THEREBY GOOD SHALL COME UNTO THEE.” Job 22:21.

Messages of God’s Love 1/15/1911

A Little Child's Happiness

OH, Mother dear,” cried a little girl, as she ran to her mother’s arms and kissed her, “how happy it is to be good!” There had been many a little scene of strife in that home among the children. Not, dear boys and girls, what generally is thought much of, but little quarrels, little sharp words, and little angry looks. But the power of the name and love of Jesus had entered that home. The mother felt it, her little ones felt it, and when the father came home in the evening he felt it too. And the happiness of His gentle rule caused our little friend to exclaim as she did.

You need to be ruled by the Lord Jesus, as well as to be saved by Him, and He will not only save you from sin, but make you happy in His love.

Messages of God’s Love 1/15/1911

Hens

THE woman is feeding the hens their breakfast. The little one in the doorway is watching the hungry chickens. How they do gather together around the mother hen, eager to eat of the scattered corn! How gladly they come together at the call!

Hens are spoken of in Matthew 23:37 when Jesus told His people, “How often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!”

The Lord yearned over Israel, but they would not come to Him. Are you, too, going to turn a deaf ear to His desire for you to be saved? And to those who are His own, remember, dear children, you have now to please but One.

Messages of God’s Love 1/22/1911

Bible History

Chapter 61. Numbers 22:22-41
Balaam’s Ass

BALAAM rode upon his ass and took his two servants with him to go to Moab to meet Balak. He was bent upon getting the silver and gold promised him, and cared little whether God was pleased with him or not. But God was angry with him for his disobedience, and sent His angel to stand in the way of the wicked prophet; but Balaam was not thinking of God and did not see the angel. But the ass saw him with his drawn sword in his hand, and turned out of the road for fear, and went into a field, and Balaam beat the ass to turn her back again. They came to a road through some vineyards, with a wall on both sides of them, and the ass who saw the angel again in front of her, threw herself against the wall and crushed Balaam’s foot against it, and he beat the ass again. They went further, to where the road became very narrow. The angel stood before them, and there was no room to turn, and the ass fell down under Balaam. Then the prophet was very angry, and beat the poor ass with his kick; but it was not the ass that was rebellious and disobedient, no, it was the prophet who was so wicked, and so foolish, and the angel was sent to him. Balaam did not see the angel, and therefore was cruel to the poor ass.

But God, who has power over all His creatures, did what seems to us a wonderful thing. He opened the mouth of the ass, and enabled her to speak, and she said to Balaam: “What have I done to thee that thou hast smitten me these three times?” Balaam answered: “Because thou hast mocked me. I wish there were a sword in my hand for now would I kill thee.” The ass continued,

“Am I not thine ass, upon which thou hast ridden ever since I was thine unto this day? Was I ever wont to do so unto thee?” Balaam said, “No.” Should not the fact that God had opened the mouth of the ass and her unusual conduct have touched Balaam’s conscience? Alas! when we are away from God, how blind we can be to His warnings and entreaties! Then the Lord opened the eyes of the prophet, and he saw the angel standing before him, with a drawn sword in his hand, and he was very much afraid, and fell down on his face. The angel asked: Why hast thou smitten thine ass these three times? I came out to meet thee because thy way is perverse before me, and the ass saw me and turned away these three times. If she had not done so, I should have killed thee, and saved her alive. Then Balaam told him he had sinned; and did not see him standing in the way; and said to him, “If it displease thee, I will get me back again.” But the angel said, “Go with the men; but only the word that I shall speak unto thee, that thou shalt speak.” So Balaam went on to Moab with the princes. I fear he was not sorry for his disobedience, but only frightened. He could not now curse Israel with his mouth, for God who enabled the ass to speak, took away from Balaam the power to say what he wished. But his heart was not changed; he was rebellious and disobedient, and covetous still, and, alas! such are all our hearts by nature, “deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked.” Nothing but the grace of God, and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ can change them.

Messages of God’s Love 1/22/1911

Soul, This Night

ELLEN was a very lively little girl, and a favorite in our Sunday-school. She was full of fun; rather too much so, her teacher sometimes said. But he was one of those patient, persevering Sunday-school teachers, who had taken for his motto, “My class for Jesus.” He toiled on, Sunday after Sunday, month after month, and many of his scholars were brought to know that they were sinners, and to believe that Jesus was their great Saviour.

But Ellen was not converted. She was very regular, and said her text perfectly, but she was without Christ. She would often come and give us to understand that she was not going to pay any real attention to what was said. Often, at the close of the meeting, I heard her teach r pray that Ellen and others like her might have no rest until they had given their hearts to Jesus.

Well, Ellen had taken her library book home as usual, and intended having a good read, as she called it. While she was reading her book she came to a text of the word of God: “Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee.”

Ellen put the book away, and began to occupy herself with other things. But it was of no use; the words, “Soul, this night,” kept ringing in her ears, until at last she went to her own room in secret. There the reality of heaven and hell filled her young heart. What could she do? How happy for her to have learned of Jesus and His love as she had done, in the Sunday-school. She went to the loving Saviour just as she was, and told Him all about herself.

Do you think He received her? Oh yes, He did; and there was rejoicing in heaven over this little repentant child, who had so many times turned a deaf ear to the words of love. Ellen was truly in earnest, she really believed in her heart, and all her sins were taken away, and she passed from death unto life.

Ellen and I have often spent happy hours together, talking over old times, when she was a little girl, and I remember her saying, “If anyone had no rest until she came to Jesus, it was I.”

And now, dear little children, it is my earnest prayer to-day that you may not rest until you can say from your heart, “Jesus is my Saviour.”

“Oh, come, for time is fleeting fast, The day of grace is hasting past,

And Jesus Christ will come at last,—Come away.”

Messages of God’s Love 1/22/1911

The Knowledge of God

No. 3.

WE can believe that God knows us through and through, but is it not wonderful to think that we may know Him? Three thousand years ago, King Solomon, the wisest man who ever lived, told us that nothing could compare with the knowledge of God: “If thou criest after knowledge, If thou seekest her as silver; and searchest for her, as for hid treasure, Then shalt thou . . . . find the knowledge of God.” Pro. 2:3, 4, 5. And in chapter 8 of the same book, Solomon tells us again, “Those that seek me early shall find me,” so you see it is best to begin to seek for that wonderful knowledge while you are yet young. There is a great deal of searching for silver nowadays and a lot has been found but is there the same anxiety to search for the knowledge of God? A thousand years after Solomon’s time, the Lord Jesus was here upon earth, and in His beautiful prayer John 17:3, He says, “This is life eternal, to know Thee, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent,” and in 1 John 5:13 we read, “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.” Do you know these things, children? I am sure you all know about God, but do you know Him as your Father? do you know the Lord Jesus as your Saviour? do you know that you have eternal life?

The Apostle Paul speaks about “knowing,” too, He says, “To know the love of Christ which passeth knowledge.” Eph. 3:19, and again, “Who shall separate us from the love of Christ?” Rom. 8:35. How can we speak of that love? It is beyond words; A love which led Him to give up all His glory, to come down into this wicked world, to live here in sorrow and suffering for thirty-three years, and then to give His life for us; do we not desire to know somewhat of that love? How can we help saying, “We love Him because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:16. John tells us also in the same chapter, (4) “We have known and believed the love that God hath to us.” And if we do know and believe that love, we can go on a little more and say, We have known the Father. (1 John 2:13.)

Can you say as a little girl once did, “I have two fathers, one on earth, and one in heaven”? Do you know God as your loving, tender Father? One to whom you can come in every difficulty, sure of His sympathy and His help? Are you seeking as an obedient child, to please Him every day? In writing to Timothy, Paul speaks of something else we may know: “From a child,” he writes, “thou hast known the holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation.” 2 Tim. 3:15. There is much learning in these days, but how often the “Holy Scriptures,” are not thought of. Dear children, whatever else you learn or read, do not forget to study your Bible.

A young man had been wounded in battle, and he was carried into a tent to die. “Tell me a verse,” he said to a companion, “something from the Bible before I die,” and his companion had to acknowledge, “I could not remember one.” Was not that a solemn thing, and yet it is true. Children, be like Timothy, and seek to know- the Scriptures while yet a child.

There are many more things which we find from the Bible we may “know,” but it would take too much space to look at them all, but we will just mention two more. In Rom. 8 we read, verse 28 “We know that all things work together for good, to them that love God.” So we need not worry about this or that; “this seems wrong,” or “that is unfortunate,” or “if only things had been different.” Why, all these things are working together for good. The work is going on silently, we cannot understand it, or see it, but God tells us it is for good, and will we not trust Him? It is all in His hand, and in the end, when the time comes, that we shall know even as we are known, we shall see that each bit of our lives was part of a great whole, which God knew from the beginning and was working out for our good. Is that too hard for you to understand? Well, just take God’s word for it then, and if it rains on the day of your picnic, or if you are sick at examination time, or whatever evil befalls you, remind yourself, that God says, and so you know, that is for good. And what is the last thing we are going to look at? We shall find it in 1 John 3:2, “We know that when He shall appear, we shall be like Him.” What a wonderful and beautiful thing to look forward to—the Lord Jesus coming to take us to be with Himself for ever, and we, having our poor bodies changed, and made like Him. We may have defects down here, which distress us but all will be gone then. What more can we desire than to be like Him. And now let us just go over the things which God has freely given us to know. Well: we may KNOW

The True God,

Jesus Christ whom He has sent,

The Father,

The love of Christ,

That we have eternal life,

The Holy Scriptures,

That all things work together for good, and that

When the Lord appears we shall be like Him.

Is there any knowledge in this world can come up to this?

Messages of God’s Love 1/22/1911

The Appian Way

HE Appian Way which leads to Rome was built by the Romans two hundred and twelve years before Christ. The Romans were noted for building good roads. Along this road are the ruined tombs of these people.

The Appian way is interesting to us, because travelled over by the Apostle Paul. He came as a prisoner to Rome and how cheered he must have been to see the brethren that came out to meet him. Acts 28:15 says, “So we went toward Rome. And from thence, when the brethren heard of us, they came to meet us as far as Appii forum, and The Three Taverns; whom when Paul saw, he thanked God and took courage.”

In Rome Paul was allowed to live in his own hired house for two years with a soldier that kept him. To the Jews in Rome he testified and persuaded them concerning Jesus both out of the law of Moses and out of the prophets from morning till evening. To all who came to him he preached with all confidence the kingdom of God and taught those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ.

Are the things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ of interest to you? We hope, dear reader, they are, for “The best Friend to have is Jesus.”

Messages of God’s Love 1/29/1911

Bible History

Cbapter 62. Numbers 23, 24.
Balaam’s Prophecy

BALAAM came to Moab; and when King Balak heard he was there, he went to meet him directly. Balak was glad to see him, and asked him why he did not come before? He told him he was able to give him money and honors and many things. But Balaam answered him: Now that he was come, he had no power to speak only what God commanded him. The next day Balak took Balaam to a high place where they could see the camp of Israel. There at Balaam’s command, they had built seven altars where they sacrificed oxen and rams at the place where Baal, Balak’s idol, was worshipped. Balaam told Balak to stand by the sacrifice and he would go further alone, that perhaps God would speak with him. The Lord went to meet Balaam and put the words in the prophet’s mouth, and the latter went back to the king who was waiting and wishing to hear the curses against God’s people. But Balaam could not curse when God had forbidden him, He said: “Balak the King of Moab hath brought me from Aram . . . saying come, curse me Jacob and come defy Irsael. How shall I curse, whom God hath hot cursed? ... ... . For from the top of the rocks, I see him, and from the hills I behold him: lo, the people shall dwell alone, and shall not be reckoned among the nations. Who can count the dust of Jacob and the number of the fourth part of Israel? Let me die the death of the righteous, and let my last end be like his!” How beautifully God takes Israel’s part! He shows Balak, who wishes evil to fall upon his people, that He is over all and will not allow an enemy to do with them as he pleases. They stood alone, a separate people from all the nations, His chosen people, cherished and cared for, in all their journeying through the wilderness.

It reminds us of Peter’s words, speaking to God’s heavenly people: “Ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people.” 1 Peter 2:9. That is the place the Christian occupies, a blessed wonderful place which brings with it a great responsibility. It is that we walk according to that position, “that ye should show forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” Poor Balaam wished to have their privileges without the walk. He wanted to die the death of the righteous, and have the silver and gold and honors also. But God says.: “Ye cannot serve God and mammon.”

Balak now took Balaam to another place and told him to curse Israel from there. After offering the oxen and rams on Baal’s altars as before, and in answer to God’s command, Balaam took up his parable saying: “Rise up, Balak son of Zippor, and hearken unto me. God is not a man that He should lie; neither the son of man that He should repent: Hath He said and shall He not do it? Hath He spoken and shall He not make it good? I have received commandment to bless, and I cannot reverse it. He hath not beheld iniquity in Jacob, neither hath He seen perverseness in Israel. The Lord God is with him . . . . Behold the people shall rise up as a great lion, and lift up himself as a young lion, he shall not lie down until he eat the prey, and drink the blood of the slain.” The more active Balak had become against Israel, the more did God show His favor upon them. “If God be for us, who can be against us?” Rom. 8:31. Israel might have been murmuring at the very moment God was saying, “He hath not beheld iniquity in Jacob.” This is another beautiful lesson we can learn, that God sees His own, perfect before Him, because He sees them through Christ, and as He is, not what they are in themselves, but what Christ’s work has made them, “Clean every whit.” And the One who said it is the One who cannot “lie” nor “repent.” “It is God that justifieth; who is he that condemneth?” Rom. 8: 33-34. Balak said to Balaam, “Neither curse them at all nor bless them at all.” But Balaam said, “All that the Lord speaks, I must do.”

Balak took him to another place, and, as before, built the seven altars and offered the sacrifices. When Balaam saw that God would bless Israel, he did not go as before to seek enchantments, but set his face toward the wilderness. There he saw Israel in their tents, and the Spirit of God came upon him, and he had to take up again his parable, saying: The man whose eyes are opened says: “How goodly are thy tents, 0 Jacob, and thy tabernacles, 0 Israel! As the valleys are they spread forth, as gardens by the river’s side, as the trees of lign aloes which the Lord hath planted, and as cedar trees beside the waters.” They shall be a blessing to other nations. God who brought them out of Egypt shall give them strength to overcome their enemies. Blessed are they that bless them and cursed those who curse them! Balak was very angry against Balaam, and said to him: I sent for thee to curse this people, and now these three times thou bast blessed them. Now flee to thy place. I was going to promote thee to great honor, but the Lord did not allow it. Balaam answered: Did I not tell thy messengers that if thou gayest me thy house full of silver and gold, yet I could not go beyond God’s commandment either for good or bad? And now that I am going to my people, come I will tell thee what this people will do to thy people. Then continuing his parable Balaam said: “I shall see Him but not now: I shall behold Him but not nigh”; (solemn fact) “there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a sceptre shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth . . . Out of Jacob, shall come He that shall have dominion and shall destroy him that remaineth of the city.” This prophecy we know, was concerning the Lord Jesus, “the lion of the tribe of Judah” who shall subdue all Israel’s enemies in the last days.

What peace and rest the knowledge of these facts give! To know that, we are a separate people, justified before God, beautiful and fruitful in His sight, and that the time is coming when Christ, the One through whom we receive all these blessings shall have His rightful place as King. Every knee shall bow before Him and every tongue shall confess Him Lord!

When Balaam had finished prophesying, he rose up and returned to his place, and Balak also went his way.

Messages of God’s Love 1/29/1911

The Knowledge of God

No. 4.

PERHAPS you will think this paper has a wrong name, as we are going to talk to-day about the things we do not know. Some things we do not know, because we have not yet learned them, and some things we do not know, because God has not been pleased to reveal them to us. Paul tells us “Some have not the knowledge of God,” 1 Cor. 15:34, and Jesus says to Nicodemus, “Art thou a master of Israel and knowest not these things”? also Thomas in John 14, exclaims, “We know not whither Thou goest, and how can we know the way”? and of little Samuel we read, “He did not yet know the Lord.” But all these are things which might have been known. The Lord Jesus has come down here expressly to bring to us the knowledge of God. Jesus Himself explained to that master in Israel the wonderful fact of how a man may “be born again.” Thomas has long ago learned where His Lord and Master was going, and the way to join Him there, and as to little Samuel you all know the pretty story of how God called him by name in the night, and taught him to know Himself. When the Lord Jesus went back to Heaven, He promised to send down His Holy Spirit, that He might teach us all things, and the Holy Spirit is still here, and dwells in God’s children, and is ready to teach them the things of God, for “the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God; now we have received . . . . the Spirit which is of God: that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.” 1 Cor. 2:11, 12. In Rom. 8, we find that we know not what we should pray for as we ought, Rom. 8:26, but again the Holy Spirit comes to our help, “The Spirit itself maketh intercession for us.” (Rom. 8:26.) In old time it could be said, “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him,” but now we find, that “God hath revealed them to us by His Spirit.” 1 Cor. 2:10.

So you see there are many things which God is willing to show us and teach us, which perhaps we do not know yet. If ye are like little Samuel, let us ask God to reveal Himself to us, and He will not refuse; and if we do know God, as our Father, let us ask Him to reveal to us by His Holy Spirit, the things which we do not know or understand in His word, and He will not refuse us either.

But there are some things which God has not told us. Both in the Old and New Testament, He warns us that we know not what shall be on the morrow. Pro. 27:1, Jas. 4:13. “Boast not thyself of to-morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.” “Ye know not what shall be on the morrow.” You all know this is true; you could all tell instances of people being taken away without a Moment’s warning, taken away from earth to stand before God; some we know were ready, it was a joyful surprise to them, but were all? If God were to call you away so quickly would you be ready? And if the Lord Jesus were to come now, to-day, would you be ready? This is another thing we are not told the hour of, “Ye know not what hour your Lord shall come.” Matt. 24:42.. How solemnly the

Lord warns us to be ready. He tells us of the people in the days of Noah; they had been preached to, had been told of the coming of that flood, but they believed it not, they were eating, drinking, marrying, and “Knew not, till the flood came, and took them all away.”

O, dear children, do not be like those people. The ark was there ready to receive them, but they would not believe, until it was too late; and now the Lord Jesus is waiting day after day. He is calling to you to come to Him where you will find peace and safety; will you “neglect that great salvation” until it is too late?

And to those who know that they are ready, I would say a word too. Are you watching, as well as waiting for the Lord from Heaven, to come and call you to meet Him in the clouds? or are you living like the man, who s’id, “my Lord delayeth His coming”? Let us rather “be diligent that we may be found of Him in peace, without spot and blameless,” 2 Pet. 3:14, and let us be encouraged by the words of King Solomon in Eccles. 11:2 and 6, to try and tell others of the great salvation we have learned for ourselves. “Give a portion to seven and also to eight, for thou knowest not what evil shall be upon the earth.” “In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not thine hand; for thou knowest not whether shall prosper, either this or that, or whether they both shall be alike good.”

“THE LORD JESUS SHALL BE REVEALED FROM HEAVEN WITH HIS MIGHTY ANGELS, IN FLAMING FIRE TAKING VENGEANCE ON THEM THAT KNOW NOT GOD, AND THAT OBEY NOT THE GOSPEL OF OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST.” 2 Thess. 1:7, 8.

Messages of God’s Love 1/29/1911

Bible Questions for February

Answers to Bible Questions for December

“And as they were afraid,” etc. Luke 24:5.

“For the Son of Man,” etc “ 19:10.

“And began at Moses,” etc. “ 24:27.

“And being in an agony,” etc. “ 22:44.

“And Herod with his men,” etc. “ 23:11.

“And when He was come,” etc. “ 19:37.

“And then shall they see,” etc. “ 21:27.

Bible Questions for February

The answers are to be found in the Gospel of John, from the 11TH chapter to the end.

Write the verse containing the words, “Follow thou me.”

Write the verse containing the words, “A man lay down his life.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Hateth his life.”

Write the verse containing the words, “The world itself.”

Write the verse containing the words, “The foundation of the world.”

Write the verse containing the words, “It is finished.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Then she runneth!”

Messages of God’s Love 2/5/1911

Caught in a Trap

DON’T say that boys, don’t say that, for it looks as if God doesn’t heed what goes on in this world, yet you can’t just see Him with your eyes. I am older than some of you, and would like to tell you a thrilling story of my life, and I, guess you’ll think differently after you have heard it.

I was a young man of four-and-twenty, living with my mother and brother and working with a large firm, where I had regular employment and good pay. I was very proud of myself in those days, and perhaps with some sort of reason, for I was a tall, broad-shouldered, good looking fellow, and being a good workman was generally singled out by my employer, Mr. Wilson, for any difficult job.

I got on well with my fellow workmen, too, for being strong and in good health, and full of spirits, nothing ever came amiss to me in the way of work or amusement. I was steady, too; I would have been ashamed to be otherwise. No one had ever seen me the worse for drink in my life, nor ever would; no one had ever heard me use bad language, or found me out in anything mean or dishonest, I was far too respectable for that. Yes, that is just what I was, respectable.

But why did my mother look so anxiously at me at times, and when I came home in high spirits, boasting of my doings, why did she sigh, as she listened to silly excited talk, and kept my younger brother Dick away from me? I will tell you. I was honest, sober, steady, trustworthy, but utterly Godless. Of course I was brought up differently, but in an evil day, when I was a young chap, I fell in with a clever, amusing fellow who jeered at religion, and led away by his wicked talk, I gave up one good practice after another, and for years I had not been inside a church, or thought of praying night or morning.

“I don’t see why I need any religion,” I said to mother; “it’s all very well for women and men who are weak and sickly, or who can’t keep straight without it; but I am strong and healthy, and have a long life before me, and no one can say I am not respectable, and well conducted.”

“Yes, that’s true, Harry,” my mother would say, “but it’s only by God’s help, though you don’t know it, that you do keep respectable, because He watches over you, but many a man as young and strong as you are, is here to-day and gone to-morrow.”

I felt uncomfortable at this kind of talk. I had become a sort of leader of the freethinking set at the works, and I didn’t want to give up my position. I had plenty of brains, and, in a sort of a way, eloquent, for I never failed to carry my hearers with me, when I made a speech at the club.

One evening, I shall never forget, I had been giving them a highly spiced speech which had been received with uproarious applause. In the course of my speech I had indulged in a few side sneers against the churches, the clergy and religion in general. When my speech was over, amidst thunders of applause, I left, and was making my way out into the streets, when who did I run against in the door way, but Mr. Elliott, our old clergyman, whom I had known from a boy, and I could see by a pained expression he had heard my speech.

I tried to slip past him, but he laid his hand on my arm, and said quietly “God has given you a gift of speech, Morris, and the power of rousing the passion and guiding the feelings of other men. May He forgive you the sinful use you are making of it. Perhaps someday you may be in some terrible danger, caught in some trap, and then you will feel His hand, and acknowledge His power, but it may then be too late!”

He said no more, but his words struck a chill upon my heart, and I tried in vain to forget them. Fine fellow as I was, I slunk home that night like a beaten dog.

About six months after, I went gaily to work one morning, in higher spirits than usual for I was about to finish an important piece of work. It was a large iron safe, intended to be built into the wall of a bank, and was constructed of immense strength.

The locks especially interested me, as I had made a suggestion about them that met with Mr. Wilson’s approval. It was an invention I had been thinking over for a long time, a contrivance which made it practically impossible for one not in the secret to open the safe door even with a key. It was undoubtedly a clever idea, and I spent a great deal of time and thought in getting it perfected, and was very proud of my success.

The bank manager and Mr. Wilson had both inspected the safe the day before, had expressed great satisfaction, and complimented me very highly. Mr. Wilson had opened and closed the locks many times, and had finally put one of the keys in his pocket, (there were but two, and I had the other,) jokingly remarking as he left the room, that no one could possibly rob the bank but himself and me.

No one else had been allowed to see the working of the locks, though the other men were all much interested in it, and when after about an hour’s work that morning, I announced that it was completed, they all came to examine it.

(To be continued.)

Messages of God’s Love 2/5/1911

Jack, the Irish Mute

Part 1

ABOUT eighty or ninety years ago, there lived in Ireland a little deaf and dumb boy, named Jack. His parents although very fond of him, and willing to do all in their power for him, had no means of educating him. They were very poor, and obliged to work hard for their living. But God had His eyes upon little Jack, and when he was eleven years old, He put it into the heart of a lady, who was staying in the same village, to undertake to teach the poor child to read, and also to speak upon his fingers. It was at first almost a hopeless undertaking. Again and again the lady put before Jack the letters which spelled, dog, cat, hat, and so on; then would point to the cat, or dog, and try to get him to connect the letters and the thing meant. Weeks and even months passed, and still he did not seem to grasp what was intended. His teacher was almost in despair, and all her friends advised her to give up the attempt.

But, at last, one day it burst upon him, and he appeared suddenly to understand what it all meant. He had learned to spell the word “what” upon his fingers, and he would run from one thing to another, pointing to each and asking “what?” It was not easy to explain things to him, as he knew only a few words, but he rapidly learned more, though he never really learned to read, or to write properly. The lady did her best to teach him, but some of his questions, put principally by signs of his own, were difficult to answer. For instance, he was anxious one day to know what was the difference between himself and the dog. He showed that both could eat, drink, sleep, be merry or angry, sick or well; then he asked his one question, “what” “what?” Poor little boy, he felt the difference, but could not explain it.

His next question was a more important one still. I will give you the story in the words of his kind friend. She says, “I do not remember exactly how long after his coming to me it was that Jack began to inquire so diligently about God. He seemed full of grave but restless thought, and then, approaching me, he pointed towards the sun, and by a movement of his hands, as if kneading something, asked me whether I made it. I shook my head. Did my mother? No. Did the clergyman or the priest? (he had a sign for each of these) No. Then, “What, what?” with a frown and a stamp. I pointed upwards, and solemnly spelled the word “God.” He seemed struck, and asked no more at that time, but the next day he overwhelmed me with “whats,” and seemed determined to know more about it. I told him as well as I could that He of whom I spoke was great, powerful and kind; and that he was always looking at us. He smiled at this, and informed me he could not tell how the sun was made, for he could not look at it, but the moon he thought was like a dumpling, and sent rolling over the tops of the trees, as he sent a marble across the table. As for the stars, they were cut out with a large pair of scissors, and stuck into the sky with the end of the thumb.

I was amused, but of course not satisfied. I longed to teach my little charge of God, but how could I until we had accomplished more in the way of education. He had not learned above a dozen of the commonest words,—all names of things—and our signs were all of his own contriving, which I had to catch and follow as I might. But the Lord’s words are, “For My ways are not youf ways, neither are your thoughts My thoughts.” It pleased Him to enlighten the mind of the boy, and who can hinder when the Lord worketh? But I think we must wait to hear how this was accomplished, until next week, as the story is rather a long one, and in the mean time, I should like to ask you, whether you have ever diligently sought after God, as this poor little ignorant deaf and dumb boy did, remembering this verse in the 8th of Prov. “I LOVE THEM THAT LOVE ME, AND THOSE THAT SEEK ME EARLY SHALL FIND ME.”

(To be continued.)

Messages of God’s Love 2/5/1911

Winter

OST children like winter because of the lovely snow. They are delighted when they see the snow fly in the air. As the snowflakes fall around them, touching their faces and clothing they laugh and make merry with each other.

The girl in our picture is enjoying the snow. She is out in the park making snow balls. The park looks beautiful with all the dark trees and bushes surrounded by the white, white snow.

What is whiter than snow? Yes, a soul washed in the blood of Jesus is whiter than snow.

What a cleansing power the precious blood of Jesus has!

What a melting power the precious love of Jesus has!

Messages of God’s Love 2/5/1911

Treasures

WHERE are your treasures?” asked a gentleman of two boys. They pointed upward and said “Our treasures are up there.”

Matthew 6:20, 21 Says, “Lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” Col. 3:2 Says, “Set your affections on things above, not on things on the earth.”

Christ is up there. Let us think more about Him, and less of the foolishness of this world. All earthly pleasures quickly pass.

The little girl’s toys—her precious treasures—will soon all be broken, new ones will take their place and they too will pass away. But the joy we find in Jesus never passes away. It goes on and on forever. We change, He changes not.

Messages of God’s Love 2/12/1911

Bible History

Cbapter 63. Numbers 25.
Baal-Peor.

WE have left Israel in their tents pitched in the plains of Moab, altogether unconscious of Balaam’s doings. Very much against his desire, but at the command of God, he had to bless God’s earthly people at Peor. God would not allow anyone to harm His own, then, as now. “Who shall lay anything to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth”. Rom. 8:33. The enemy was powerless there, and so he must try some other way to harm them. Balaam advised Balak and the Moabites to have their women associate with the Israelites. This advice was followed, and they were called unto the sacrifice of their gods. The Israelites fell into the snare, bowed and worshipped Baal, their god, and ate of the sacrifice. This kindled God’s anger against them and He sent the plague among them so that twenty-four thousand died. Then He commanded Moses that all those who had joined themselves to Baal-Peor should be slain, and hung up before the Lord, that His fierce anger might be turned away from the people.

Among those who had defiled themselves in this way, was a prince of one of the chief houses of the tribe of Simeon, named Zimri. Very boldly, in the sight of Moses, and of all the congregation of the children of Israel who were weeping at the door of the tabernacle, he brought one of the Midianitish women to his tent. At the sight, Phinehas, the son of Eleazar, the high priest, was filled with righteous indignation, and taking his javelin in his hand, he followed Zimri into his tent and thrust both of them through the body. After this, the plague was stayed.

Then the Lord told Moses that He was pleased with the zeal Phinehas had shown for His glory, and he it was Who had turned away God’s wrath, and stayed the plague. For a reward Phinehas should receive the covenant of an everlasting priest-hood. As to the Midianites, the Israelites should smite them, “For,” said He, “they vex you with their wiles, wherewith they have beguiled you in the matter of Peor.”

What a solemn fact this is that God must deal with His children when their ways are not according to His holy character.

The world has become a Baal-Peor to many of God’s dear children who have turned from Him, enticed by the passing pleasures it can give. The apostle John lovingly warns the young in his epistle . “Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life, is not of the Father, but is of the world. And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever.” 1 John 2:15-17.

Messages of God’s Love 2/12/1911

Caught in a Trap

(Continued.)

While they were standing around, 1 got inside the safe to show off the strength of the hinges, and anxious to see whether they worked easily, I pulled the door towards me. Either I gave a harder pull than I intended, or some of the men accidentally pushed against it, but before I could prevent it, the door, shutting with a spring, closed instantly, and a series of re-echoing clangs convinced me that the machinery was working only too well, and that the bolts and bars, so contrived to act simultaneously with the lock, were all falling into their places with exactness.

For a second or so the full horrors of my position did not dawn upon me, till the dead silence followed, and then the awful thought flashed into my mind, I had the key in my pocket. But if it had been in the lock no one could have opened it, no one but the bank manager, by this time miles away, and Mr. Wilson, who had the other key; but would anyone think of sending for him?—Would the men realize that every minute—nay every second was of immense importance.

I knew it was impossible for any amount of strength to break in the safe, but I held my breath, and strained my ears to discover what was being done. Useless! no sound penetrated those iron walls. What were the men doing? Were they wasting precious moments trying in vain to open my prison themselves, or had they sent for the only person who could release me? Suppose Mr. Wilson could not be found, or suppose he had forgotten the trick of the lock?

A sick feeling came over me as I thought what that meant. Even now the air in the safe was beginning to get close and heavy. What an awful thought, that before Mr. Wilson came I might be suffocated. I was truly caught in a trap. I knew I would die someday, but never like this alone—in profound darkness, with every pulse beating high, with the blood bounding swiftly through my veins, in the full vigor of manhood, caught in a trap like a miserable rat. Not like this.

For some moments I think I went out of my mind. I tore at the door and shouted to the men outside, well as I knew they could not hear me, and as I leaned back gasping and panting against the back of the safe, to add to my terror, there came echoing through my brain, Mr. Elliott’s words:

“Someday you may be in some terrible danger, caught in some trap, and then you will feel His hand and acknowledge His power, but it may then be too late.” There alone in the dark I stood face to face with death—and the hereafter—God had indeed laid His hand on me, and made me feel that there is a God that judgeth in the earth. Yes, I knew it all too true in my despair!

The atmosphere of the safe was becoming stifling. I felt like a drowning man sinking in the water—a little further delay and help would come too late! But stay! Stay, what new words of sweetness rushed suddenly into my mind calming my terror for a few moments.

“When they cried unto the Lord in their trouble, He delivered them out of their distress.”

Yes, but how could I cry to the God I had laughed and jeered at, how could I now turn and make a bargain with Him, impossible!

The air got more oppressive, the weight on my head was intolerable. What could I do? I must do something. Looking into eternity I felt convinced that there was a God—a heaven—and a hell! I deserved no pity—but He helped these people in their distress—perhaps He would help me. At least I would cry to Him and leave the rest to Him!

(To be continued.)

Messages of God’s Love 2/12/1911

Jack, the Irish Mute.

Part 2

I PROMISED to tell you a little more about Door Jack, and how he tried to find out about God, so we will go on with the lady’s story. “Next day, Jack came to me in great wrath, intimating that my tongue ought to be pulled out. This was his usual mode of saying a lie had been told. So I looked innocent and said “What.” He reminded me of yesterday’s conversation, telling me he had looked everywhere for God; he had been down the street, over the bridge, into the church yard, through the fields, had peeped into the grounds of the castle, walked past the barrack yard; and got up in the night to look out of the window. All in vain—he could not find God. He saw nobody big enough to put up his hand and stick the stars in the sky. I was “bad,” my tongue must be pulled out; for there was “God, no,” and he repeated “God, no,” so often that it went to my heart.

I thought, and prayed. I was sure that none without divine help, could really seek after God, and felt that if He gave the desire, He would surely increase the knowledge. Here was a poor afflicted boy, getting out of his bed, to look for One by night, whom he had vainly sought all day: and here was Satan at work to strengthen unbelief.

I sat silent, on the opposite side of the fire, and a plan having struck me, shrugged my shoulders, and seemed convicted of deception. He shook his head at me, and frowned, appearing very much offended. Presently, I seized a small pair of bellows, and after puffing at the fire suddenly directed a rough blast at his little red hand, which hung very near it. He snatched it back, scowled at me, and when I did it again, shivered and let me know he did not like it.

I renewed the puff, saying, “What?” and looking most unconscious of having done anything: He blew hard, and showed me that it made his hands cold; that I was “bad” and he was angry. I puffed in all directions, looked very eagerly at the pipe of the bellows, peering on every side,. and then explaining that I could see nothing, imitated his manner, saying, “Wind, no,” shaking my head at him, and telling him his tongue must come out. He opened his eyes very wide, and stared at me, his whole face became crimson, his very countenance seemed altered, while he repeated, “God like wind.” He had no word for like; it was signified by holding the two fore fingers out side by side.

Here was a wonderful step; he had learned to recognize an invisible God. I cared for him, for seven years from that time, and I can truly say, that God reigned in his heart without a rival. Every event of the day, every object that he saw, brought forth some question about God. He made me observe that when trying to look at the sun, he had to shut his eyes, adding, “God like sun,” and yet how had he learned of God’s unapproachable glory?

Before this he had liked to tease the dog and cat, and had a great desire to fish, but now he became most tender to every living thing, moving his hand gently over them and saying, “God made.” At first he would not believe the worms were made by God, as they came up through holes in the earth, and God was above, in the sky, but I set him right on this subject, and he agreed that they might be rolled up in the world, like meat in a pudding, and bite their wav out.”

But though Jack had learned to know about, and to believe in, God, you will notice that he still knew nothing of our Lord Jesus Christ, and we know that He is the One through whom alone we have salvation, but God who loved this poor little boy (as indeed He loves all little boys) was not going to leave His work unfinished.. He wanted Jack to be made meet (or ready) for that beautiful heaven which is prepared for those who are washed in Jesus’ blood, and in the next chapter, I will tell you how he learned to know and love the Lord Jesus.

“Being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of 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.

Messages of God’s Love 2/12/1911

The Sheep in the Snowstorm

HOW deep the snow lies on the ground! Let us hope the shepherd with all his sheep and dog will soon reach the place of shelter. See the dog on ahead leading the way in the best path he can find! Some of the sheep are stupidly going into the deep snow. Sheep are said to be very foolish when in any danger, running hither and thither, seemingly not knowing what to do. That is the reason they need a patient loving shepherd.

The people of God are often likened, in Scripture, both in the Old and the New Testament, to sheep having no shepherd. It is certainly true that “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.” Isa. 53:6.

Messages of God’s Love 2/19/1911

Caught in a Trap

(Continued.)

For the first time in many years, I got on my knees, and leaning my aching head against the cold iron, I begged Him if it was not His will to let me live any longer to forgive all the black catalogue of my sins and rebellion for Christ’s sake. Then I thought of my dear mother, and knew that great as the grief would be, one thing would make it lighter, she would know at any rate I was not dying as I had lived. I felt in my pocket for a pencil, and wrote on a piece of paper which mother has still.

“God bless you, mother—I have asked God to forgive me.”

It took me some time to write. for in the dark I had to feel where I was writing, and I was getting more oppressed every moment, and breathing with greater difficulty.

A buzzing was beginning in my head and a rushing noise in my ears. What were the men about? Surely they might have sent for Mr. Wilson before this—however, it was too late now. The pain in my head was terrible. I was beyond thinking of anything, and only knelt on through what seemed to me endless hours, till something seemed to give way in my brain, and I fell forward unconscious.

I have a confused recollection next of a feeling of suffocation, a tingling all over me, a terrible pain in my head, a hum of voices sounding afar off, a struggle to get my breath and failing, of trying to open my eyes and being blinded by the bright light, then I seemed to die, I sank gradually down, and all was once more a blank.

When I opened my eyes a second time I found myself in my own bed, puzzled to know how I felt so queer, and why my head pained me. Had I an illness? I tried to move but could not, and when I tried to speak, the words came strangely thick. Little by little I remembered what had happened, and something of the terror I had felt came back to me.

My mother took my hand, and said, with tears streaming down her cheeks, “Let us thank God, the God that saved you in your fearful trouble, my own boy.” I was too weak to speak, but I followed mother as she thanked God for the wonderful preservation, and that I had given myself to Christ in that iron safe, and asked, having been so wonderfully spared, that my life might be consecrated to His service.

After this I began to mend, getting better day by day. The workmen were never tired of inquiring for me, bringing flowers, fruits, and gifts. They gathered round my bed one evening, saying what a lucky chap Morris is—never heard of such wonderful piece of real luck before. I let them talk on for a while, thanking them the best I could. I then said I had something on my mind I would like to tell them. I wasn’t up to much yet; would I begin at once? I wouldn’t keep them long.

A chorus of voices assured me they would all be glad to hear what I had to say. I then told them the whole history as simply as I could; what I felt, and what I did when I was locked in that awful safe, and how happy I had felt since—that for the future my life was God’s, and that I hoped to spend it undoing the harm I had already done.

It was a great effort for me speak as I did. I hadn’t said half I would have liked to say but they listened quietly, and no sneers came, but a quiet hush was over them all.

At last a young fellow, who had always backed me up in the old days, said: “Morris, if ever a man had a right to speak to his fellow men, you have. You have come out of the jaws of hell—if ever a man has come back from another world, you have done it; and if you found in that awful safe that there was a God, and He heard and answered you, I for one will trust Him and His Book from this time forward, and I hope you men will do the same.”

I feel, dear friends, I must not refrain from a few words of warning upon this solemn circumstance—a marvelous incident of the grace of God. What I want to bring before you is the fact of how few who are caught in traps like this, are brought into such blessing.

Our attention has just been called to a similar experience of two men in St. Louis who accidently shut themselves into an abandoned steel vault, in a section of a large building where it was impossible to be heard by others.

They were in their prison for nearly three hours, when God in His mercy allowed them to get out, but the result of their being caught in a trap was very different from our friend Morris, as their actions, when they were released, showed.

Do we not read of hundreds, yea, thousands of precious souls being ushered into eternity through traps, which we call accidents, without having time to turn to the Lord?

Do realize your need of accepting Him as your Saviour, now, and, then, come what may, you will be willing and happy to go to be with Him.

Messages of God’s Love 2/19/1911

Jack, the Irish Mute

Part 3

WE left little Jack, in our last chapter, in possession of the knowledge of an invisible God, who had made him, and every living thing around him. But still, you remember, he had never heard of the Son of God, the Lord Jesus Christ. His kind teacher was very anxious that he should learn of Jesus, and prayed much for the poor child. A terrible fever visited the village .about this time, and she brought Jack to her own house, to keep him from the infection. She tells us in her Memoir, that he was much struck with the number of funerals that were passing, and goes on to tell us, “One evening he began to ask me about it, questioning with significant gestures, if they would ever open their eyes again. This struck me as a singular question for he had often been present when the dead were buried, and had also seen the decay of dead animals. It plainly showed that he had, even in his untaught mind, a sense of the immortality of man’s soul.

On the present occasion my heart being lifted up in prayer to God for His help, I caught at the encouragement, and immediately drew on paper a crowd of persons, old and young; near them I drew, a pit, with flames issuing from it, and told him, that all these people, among whom were we, had been “bad,” and God would throw us into the fire. His

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He told me the rescued people were many; He who died was one, and his earnest “What,” showed his anxiety for an explanation of this difficulty.

With great joy in my heart, I rose, and taking from a vase a bunch of dead flowers, I cut them into small bits, laid them in a heap on the table, and beside them my gold ring; then pointing to each, with the words, “many,” “one.” I asked which he would rather have? He struck his hand suddenly to his forehead, then clapped his hands, gave a jump, and with the most rapturous expression of countenance intimated that the one piece of gold was better than a room full of dead flowers. Then he applied what he had just learned, pointing to the picture, to the ring, to himself, to me, and finally to heaven. A smile beamed on his face, his eyes sparkled and danced with delight, until with a rush of tears, his expression softened into a look of deep awe, and unbounded love, while he gently spelled on his fingers, “Good One, Good One,” and asked me His name. How sweet the name of Jesus sounds, “in a believer’s ear.” Jack was not to hear that name with his bodily ears, but he received it into his mind, and the gospel, the glorious gospel, into his soul. In that hour it was given him to believe in the name of Jesus, and in that hour he was saved.

By degrees I was able to give him some knowledge of our Lord’s birth, work upon earth, death and resurrection, and future coming again, all of which he received with great interest and pleasure.”

For seven years, Jack lived with his friend, Mrs. Tonna, and was a great joy to her. You will be interested perhaps to hear that she also was perfectly deaf, although not having become so until grown up. She was able to speak, but her friends, always spoke to her upon their fingers. In spite of her deafness however, she did much work for the Lord, not only writing many books and tracts, but, at one time, conducting a large Sunday-school, teaching the girls from four to five thirty; and the boys from six to eight, on Sunday evenings. Jack always sat behind her in a large chair, and if he saw any of the children inclined to play, or laugh over the word of God tears would fill his eyes, and he would spell on his fingers,” God see.” Oh, that the children of our day would remember poor Jack’s words, while reading God’s word in Sunday-school, or else

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Messages of God’s Love 2/19/1911

Begging

THIS dog is begging Poll to drop him a few crumbs of the biscuit he is eating. Poll seems quite delighted with the beggar’s position and will likely keep him there for some time.

Do you remember .hearing- of the woman of Canaan, a Gentile, in Matthew 15:22 who came begging the Lord Jesus for mercy? Her daughter was vexed with a devil. The disciples said, “Send her away.” But Jesus said, “I am not sent, but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” She then came worshipping Him, saying, “Lord, help me.” But He told her He could not take the children’s bread and cast it to dogs. She saw her true place was that of a Gentile dog, and said, “Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their Master’s table.” Having now taken her true place, she gets the blessing, for Jesus said to her, “O woman, great is thy faith; be it unto thee even as thou wilt.” And her daughter was made whole from that hour.

We must take the low place in God’s presence, for we are sinners every one, deserving everlasting punishment. But God in His wondrous love and mercy provides a way of escape—faith in the finished work of the Lord Jesus.

Messages of God’s Love 2/26/1911

To the Young

REMEMBER, now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them.”‘ Eccl. 12:1.

Remember thy Creator

Now in thy youthful days,

That blessed Mediator,

Who understands thy ways.

Who suffered on Mount Calvary,

For sinners crucified,

That thou may’st go to glory,

Forever to abide.

Remember thy Creator,

While health and strength prevail,

Why wait a moment longer,

The foe may soon assail.

Oh, seek the Saviour early,

He will of thee be found,

And bless and save thee surely,

For mercies rich abound.

Remember thy Creator,

Now in life’s bright spring time,

Be now a blest partaker,

Of happiness sublime,

Before the evil days come,

Or yet the years draw nigh,

When thou may’st almost loathe them,

No pleasure to supply.

Remember thy Creator,

Now is salvation’s day,

To wait a little later,

Might seal thy doom for aye.

Oh hear Him sweetly calling

In mercy, “Come to Me.”

From certain woe appalling,

To Christ the Saviour flee.

Messages of God’s Love 2/26/1911

Wawatam

MICHILIMACKINAC was an old French trading post, protected by a fort built by order of Governor Vandrenil in 1712.

The fort stood on the south side of the strait connecting Lake Michigan with Lake Huron.

The fortifications enclosed an area of two acres, and consisted of a palisade of cedar pickets, and was so near the waters edge, that a wind from the west washed the waves against the stockade. Within the stockade were thirty houses, neat in appearance, and tolerably comfortable.

But in the summer of 1762, it fell into the hands of a detachment of British troops, who took possession of the fort.

Among the residents there, during the spring of 1763, was Alexander Henry, a noted fur trader from Montreal, who had come to this part of the west two years before, for the purpose of carrying on trade. And among the Indians who traded at the post, was one named Wawa-tam, and a friendship grew up between him and the fur trader. And the Indian, according to the custom of his tribe, adopted the white man as his brother.

Wawatam knew that the Indians had premeditated an attack upon the post, and he, full of anxiety for his white brother, was anxious for his deliverance.

But loyalty to his race, or fear of being discovered, prevented him from disclosing all to the trader. Still, the faithful Indian, and his wife, both tried to persuade Mr. Henry to leave the place; saying, the Indians were going to visit the fort in large numbers to ask liquor from the commander, and that they might become intoxicated, then, he would not be safe among them. But after long, and patient, but ineffectual efforts to arouse him to a sense of his danger, they with dejected countenances, and tears in their eyes, withdrew, and left him.

Now, dear children, does not this make us think of such a scripture as “Escape for thy life. . . . lest thou be consumed”?

But there is a great difference, between Wawatam’s testimony to his friend, and the testimony of the word of God to you. The Indian knew that a fearful judgment was hanging over the inhabitants of the little fort, and he longed for the safety of his white brother, but he was afraid to tell him the whole truth.

Now, the Word of God tells us the whole truth plainly, as regards the terrible ble judgment, that will fall upon this scene, when the Lord takes His people away. Is not the language plain in 2 Thess. 1:7, 8? “The Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with His mighty angels, in flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of His power.”

Now, in view of that day of “darkness and gloominess” would you not seek “a hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest”? If so, Isaiah 32:2 tells us that “a Man” shall be that hiding place. Yes, “a Man,” “for through this Man,” who is the hiding place, “is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins.”

And how could it be otherwise, seeing that it is His blood that cleanseth us from all sin, and His beloved people know Him as “the mediator between God and men,” and, He, ever dear to their hearts, is “the Man Christ Jesus.”

Mr. Alexander Henry made no attempt to flee from the judgment, until it began to fall upon the fort.

But when he looked through a window, and saw his countrymen falling before a band of furious savages, he then looked around for some place of safety, which, when found, afforded relief for a short time only, for soon he was discovered by the Indians, and dragged from his hiding place. For some reason his life was spared, but for long enough he was kept a prisoner among them, and had to put up with their wretched way of living. But though Mr. Henry did escape with his life, when the judgment fell upon the fort, those who refuse Christ as their Saviour will not fare as well, for we are told, “they shall not escape.” 1 Thess. 5:3.

Then why, dear children, risk a moment’s delay? “Now is the day of salvation”. “To day, if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts.”

Why wait, like Mr. Henry, to believe when the judgment begins to fall? It will be too late for salvation then, the Saviour of today, will be the judge of that day.

But a refuge is found to-day; a Saviour’s everlasting love has provided one. And that refuge is found in Himself—alone. We are sheltered by His work done for us upon the cross. Therefore we would beseech you to come and rest yourselves under that shelter. For He bore our sins in His own body on the tree.. (1 Peter 2:24.)

Messages of God’s Love 2/26/1911

Jack, the Irish Mute

Part 4

WE have traced the gradual steps by which poor Jack learned of his Creator, and of his Redeemer. We have seen how this poor ignorant child received the good seed of the gospel, with great joy, and how it sprang up, and brought forth the fruit of righteousness in his life. Now we have to hear how the Lord took this poor boy to Himself, after He had cleansed him from all sin, in that ever precious blood.

When about fourteen, he left Ireland with his friend, Mrs. Tonna, and went to England. Here he grew to be a tall, fine boy, and a great help and comfort to his friend in more than one season of great sorrow, but in his nineteenth year, that terrible disease, consumption, seized him, and he gradually faded away. His sufferings were very great, but he never complained. When appearing in the morning looking pale and exhausted, he was asked if he had slept, he would reply with a sweet smile, “No, Jack no slc..1P. Jack thinks good Jesus Christ see poor Jack. Night dark, heaven all light; soon see heaven. Cough much now, pain bad, soon no cough, no pain.” At one time the doctor put leeches on his side, the torture was dreadful, and he said, “very, very pain,” and seemed half wild with agony, but looking at his dear teacher and seeing her in tears, he controlled himself, and told her, that though his pain was great, the Lord had suffered far more; the thorns, the nails, the spear all drew forth His blood, and he added, “It was shed to save me.”

Mrs. Tonna tells us, “He had told me some years before, that when he had lain-a good while in the grave, God would call aloud, “Jack,” and he would start and say, “Yes, me Jack.” Then he would rise, and see multitudes standing together, and God sitting with a very large book in His hand, (he called it Bible book)—would beckon him to stand before Him, while He opened the book, and looked at the top of the pages, till He came to the name of John B. In that page lie told me, God had written all his “bads,” every sin he had done, and the page was quite full. So God would look, and strive to read it, and hold it to the sun for light, but it was all “No, no, nothing done.” I asked him if he had done no bad? He said, “Yes, much bads, but when he prayed to Jesus Christ, He had taken that book, and found the place, and passed His hand over the place, so that God could see none of Jack’s bads, only Jesus Christ’s blood.”

He never doubted his salvation, never knew what fear of death was, because his view of Christ’s all-sufficiency was so exceedingly clear. He never questioned God’s love to him, and would say that the Lord Jesus called him “My Jack.” Another time he said “Good pain; make Jack go to heaven.”

Again he spoke of the Lord Jesus as looking down from heaven, and saying, to sinners, “Come man, come pray.” Through the winter months he failed very fast. He was unable to lie down, but through all his sufferings remained patient and gentle; his great desire being to see his brother and sister brought to know Jesus as their Saviour.

On the 4th of February he was able to walk about a little, though evidently dying. He talked a great deal to Mrs. Tonna, saying, “God would throw the `bads’ into the fire,” “Is not Jack bad?” she asked. “Yes, Jack bad very, but Jesus Christ love poor Jack; wash away all his `bads’.” He prayed for all his family, and begged his dear friend to teach his sister Mary to read, then he sweetly thanked her for all her care and trouble, and lying down on the sofa, put his hand in hers, and fell asleep in Jesus, by and by to awaken in the likeness of that Lord whom he so loved, and who so loved him. “We love Him because He first loved us.” “Who loved me and gave Himself for me.”

“Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.” Rev. 22:20.

“GOD SHALL WIPE AWAY ALL TEARS FROM THEIR EYES; AND THERE SHALL BE NO MORE DEATH, NEITHER SORROW, NOR CRYING, NEITHER SHALL THERE BE ANY MORE PAIN: FOR THE FORMER THINGS ARE PASSED AWAY.” Rev. 21:4.

Messages of God’s Love 2/26/1911

Bible Questions for March

Answers to Bible Questions for Januarv

“He that believeth,” etc John 3:36.

“And He that sent me,” etc. “ 8:29.

“And when she had so,” etc. “ 11:28.

“As long as I am,” etc. “ 9:5.

“Say ye of Him,” etc. “ 10:36.

“But the hour cometh,” etc. “ 4:23.

“And Jesus said unto,” etc. “ 6:35.

Bible Questions for March

The answers to be found in the first fourteen chapters of Acts.

Write the verse containing the words, “The forgiveness of sins.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Not worthy to loose.”

Write the verse containing the words, “NO respecter of persons.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Purpose of heart.”

Write the verse containing the words, “The heavens opened.”

Write the verse containing the words, “This same Jesus.”

Write the verse containing the words. “Thou hast not lied unto men.”

Messages of God’s Love 3/5/1911

Bible History

The Numbering of the People

Chapter 64. Numbers 26.

AFTER the plague which God caused to come upon Israel because of their sin at BaalPeor, the Lord told Moses to number the people according to their tribes, and houses and families, all the men of war, from twenty years old and above. The families of the tribe of Reuben numbered forty-three thousand eleven hundred and thirty men. Of Simeon, twenty-two thousand two hundred. Gad, forty thousand five hundred. Judah, seventy-six thousand five hundred.

Issachar, sixty-four thousand three hundred. Zebultm, sixty thousand five hundred. Manasseh, fifty-two thousand seven hundred. Ephraim, thirty-two thousand four hundred. Benjamin, forty-five thousand six hundred. Dan, sixty-four thousand four hundred. Asher, fifty-three thou sand four hundred. Naphtali, forty-five thousand four hundred. Altogether the men of war among the children of Israel were six hundred and one thousand seven hundred and thirty. Then God said that according to their numbers should the inheritance of the tribes be when entering the land of Canaan. The Levites, who were numbered separately, were twenty-three thousand males from one month old.

They were not to have an inheritance among the other tribes, for they were consecrated to the Lord.

From among this great multitude none of those who had been numbered the first time by Moses and Aaron in the wilderness of Sinai were left, except Joshua and Caleb, for the Lord had said of those who had murmured against Moses: “Their carcasses shall fall in the wilderness.” The faith of these two men was rewarded, as faith always is. “According to your faith be it unto you.” Matt. 9:29.

Unbelief on the other hand, kept the first generation from entering the land of Canaan, and caused them to die in the wilderness, and God uses this as a warning to us. In Heb., He says, “Take heed, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart, of unbelief, in departing from the living God. But exhort one another daily, while it is called To-day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin:” “While it is said, To-day if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation. For some, when they had heard, did provoke: howbeit not all that came out of Egypt by Moses. But with whom was He grieved forty years? Was it not with them that had sinned, whose carcasses fell in the wilderness? And to whom sware He that they should not enter into His rest, but to them that believed not? So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief. Let us therefore fear, lest, a promise being left us of entering into His rest, any of you should seem to come short of it, for unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it.” Heb. 3:12-19, 4:1, 2.

Just as lack of faith caused these six hundred thousand men to die in the wilderness, so it keeps thousands of God’s real children from enjoying His full salvation, and all the promises made to them.

Messages of God’s Love 3/5/1911

A Happy Choice

ONE evening, toward the end of a year, a young girl, the daughter of an innkeeper went through the streets of the city. She met an aunt of hers who asked her about her errand. “I am going to the dance hall,” was her reply.

“And I,” replied her aunt, “am going to a Bible reading. You come with me.”

Dance or Bible reading? That was a conflict. The aunt looked on her niece so earnestly and longingly. She decided to give up the dance, and go with her aunt to hear God’s word. The Lord had triumphed, and now He opened her heart to that word and to Himself. She saw her need of Him and accepted Him as her Saviour.

Toward the spring, the inn became the house of mourning. A coffin was there decorated with flowers. Who could be within? No one else but the young girl who had not long since chosen to go to the Bible reading, instead of the dance hall. Soon after that Bible reading, she became the Lord’s property, and from that time, sought much to be in the company of God’s people, to follow on with them after the Lord Jesus who had given her pardon and peace. It was her last year of grace. She is now at home with the Lord Jesus. But where would she be, if she, instead of the Bible reading, had chosen the pleasures of this world and gone to the dance?

No room for mirth or trifling here,

For worldly hope or worldly fear

If life so soon be gone;

If now the Judge is at the door,

And all mankind must stand before

The inexorable throne.

No matter which my thoughts employ,

A moment’s misery or joy;

But oh, when both shall end,

Where shall I find my destined place?

Shall I my everlasting days

With fiends or angels spend?

Dear friend, how solemn to live in this world. It is here where we make our choice. Moses in his day chose. (Heb. 11).

The multitude in Jerusalem in a certain day chose Barabbas and condemned Jesus. And are not you a chooser also? Every time you go to Sunday-school, or hear the gospel preached, and you go away unsaved and unconcerned, have not you chosen? You surely have, and God keeps record of it, for He is -jealous for His dear- Son, and desires that He should be honored.

Messages of God’s Love 3/5/1911

What Must I Do to Be Saved?

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

O guilty ruined one,

Flee to the Lamb of God,

For Jesus, God’s dear Son,

Came from His blest abode,

To die for you that you might live,

O will you not in Christ believe?

O heavy laden one,

To Jesus flee for rest,

O weary one lay down

Your head upon His breast.

He waits the burdened to relieve,

O, will you not in Christ believe?

O weary, toiling one,

Why ever toil you so,

The work was all well done,

By Jesus long ago,

And now ‘tis for you to receive,

will you not in Christ believe?

Despairing, sin-sick soul,

All helpless and undone,

If you would be made whole,

Believe in God’s dear Son,

‘Twas such as you He died to save,

O will you not in Christ believe?

Disturbed and troubled soul,

Devoid of Life and Peace,

Of sad emotions full,

And sorrow and distress,

O would you Life and Peace receive,

O then on Jesus Christ believe.

Why would you longer wait?

Why not at once decide?

You could not mend your state

If you forever tried,

There is but One that can relieve,

O will you not in Christ believe?

There is no other name,

There is no other way,

But Jesus Christ the same

To-day as yesterday.

He only can your soul retrieve,

O will you not in Him believe?

Jesus with arms of love,

Is waiting to embrace,

Why not His mercy prove,

And taste His Sovereign grace?

He waits eternal life to give,

O will you not on Christ believe?

A never failing Friend,

Jesus will be indeed,

To you unto the end,

In every time of need,

He never will forsake or leave,

O will you not on Christ believe?

O would you gladly dwell

Where sorrow is unknown,

Where happy voices swell

The new eternal song?

O then to Christ the Saviour cleave,

With all your heart in Him believe.

O why not now believe

In God’s beloved Son?

Eternal life receive,

A child of God become;

‘I he joy and. peace you can’t conceive,

Of those who in the Lord believe.

Believe in God’s dear Son,

Whom God so freely gave,

Believe the work He’s done,

Sufficient is to save,

Believe He died that you might live,

Believe in Christ. Only believe.

Messages of God’s Love 3/5/1911

Bread

THE boy is sharing his bread with his animal friends. They are all hungry and will eat heartily of this food. Do boys and girls need any other kind of food besides breakfast in the morning?

Morning and evening are you reading God’s Word? Are you neglecting the Word of God which feeds your souls?

In the morning He showeth forth His loving-kindness and in the evening His faithfulness. Forget not to eat of that Bread which came down from heaven. For this, what is His promise? Life evermore.

Reading God’s Word will show you what you are, a sinner, unfit for God’s presence. You will also learn that Jesus came to seek and to save just such sinners. You will learn, too,

“What a Saviour Jesus is!”

“I AM THE BREAD OF LIFE: HE THAT COMETH TO ME SHALL NEVER HUNGER; AND HE THAT BELIEVETH ON ME SHALL NEVER THIRST.” John 6:35.

“The bread of God is He which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.” John 6:33.

Messages of God’s Love 3/5/1911

Friends

THERE is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother.” Prov. 18:24.

Our picture shows a beautiful friendship. The horses are quite willing to share their food with the pigeons.

They seem to have all things in common.

How affectionate the horses are and what gentle faces they have, and can we not learn lessons from the dumb creatures? Our readers all have their friends, and let us learn to be unselfish, to think more of others than we do of ourselves.

We read in Samuel of a wonderful friendship between Jonathan and David. The soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul. They made a covenant or promise with each other, and Jonathan put his robe on David, gave him his sword, his bow and his girdle.

Jonathan sought to make peace between his father, King Saul, and David. But Saul still desired to kill David, so David left Jonathan and fled for his life. They shed bitter tears at parting, for their love for each other was great.

When David heard of the death of Jonathan, his lamentation was sore. He says in 2 Sam. 1:25, 26, “How are the mighty fallen in the midst of the battle! O Jonathan, thou wast slain in thine high places.

I am distressed for thee, my brother Jonathan, very pleasant hast thou been unto me: thy love to me was wonderful, passing the love of women.

How are the mighty fallen, and the weapons of war perished.” So ended this great friendship, but children there is a Friend that sticketh closer than a brother. Do you know Him?

There’s a Friend for little children,

Above the bright blue sky—

A Friend who never changeth,

Whose love can never die.

Messages of God’s Love 3/12/1911

The Lighthouse Keeper's Daughter

THERE is on a rugged and dangerous part on the coast of Cornwall, an old lighthouse. Its site was formerly on a projecting point of rock, which forms an island when the tide is high, but is joined to the main land by a sort of raised causeway when the waters are low. By means of this causeway, the persons who had charge of the lighthouse held communication with the shore, for the purpose of obtaining provisions, and recruiting their stock of oil.

The family of the light-house keeper consisted of his wife and his little daughter—a child of about ten or eleven years of age. The parents were Christian people, and brought up their child in the fear of God, and taught her early to read and love His word. A little before the time of which we are speaking, the mother died; and the most precious thing she had to leave her child, was a large well-worn family Bible. There
were then left to take charge of the light-house only the man and the little girl.

One morning, after the light-house keeper had trimmed his lamps and got them all ready for lighting in the evening, he set off, with his basket on his arm, along the causeway, for the purpose of getting provisions, intending to hasten home before the tide should have flowed and covered up the path.

But there were some men at a distance on the shore, who saw him coming to land, and who formed a wicked scheme to prevent him from returning to the light-house. These persons were wreckers. These were the people who frequented the coast for the purpose of robbing any wreck which might come on shore. Instead of helping the poor sailors, they illtreated them, and took away what they had saved. It was their wish to have as many wrecks as possible, that they might get the more plunder. The object for which the light-house was built was to prevent shipwrecks. It warned sailors that they were near the dangerous rocky coast; it directed them to keep out to sea; and showed them the channel in which they must sail, if they would reach in safety their desired haven.

A number of these wreckers saw the light-house keeper come on shore. They were expecting some merchant vessels, with valuable cargoes, to come up the channel that very day, to say nothing of the great number of ships which are constantly passing that coast: so they agreed to waylay the poor man. They knew there was only a little child in the lighthouse: and what could she do? If they could prevent the man from returning home, no lamps would be lighted that night, no friendly beacon would shine, no warning ray be thrown out on the dark waters; the vessels they expected would certainly run ashore, or be cast on the rocks, and they would have abundant spoil and riches in return for their wicked and cruel plot. Such was their reasoning. So they came unawares on the keeper, who was now on his road home, surrounded him, took him away to a lonely shed on the beach, tied his hands and feet, and there left him. They supplied him with food, for they did not wish to do him any harm; and, having left two of their party to watch the shed, the rest of them went about preparing for their dreadful night’s work.

Now, let us leave the poor man, who in spite of his entreaties and prayers, is bound in the shed; and let us go to the light-house and see the little girl. For several hours she goes about her usual employment. She makes the rooms tidy, she cuts up a stock of lamp-wicks, she strains the oil for future use, she prepares for her father’s return. Now and then she looks out of the narrow little window facing the shore, thinking that it is time she should see him coming. The waters are beginning to flow over the causeway; but no one is yet in sight. She becomes more and more anxious; the waves rise higher and higher, and at last the road is completely covered with the tide; but she sees nothing of her father. Still the afternoon is not far advanced, and although she is anxious and somewhat fearful, she knows there are boats on the shore, in any of which her father may return. Another half-hour, and she becomes alarmed. She looks out to sea; the waters are becoming black—not black with darkness of night, but with that darkness which, as she well knows, foretells a storm. The clouds are gathering and wind rising, the waves are now tipped with white: she knows that a tempest is at hand. She looks down westward, and just at the entrance of the channel she sees the merchant ships, which the light-house keeper, as well as the wreckers, was expecting: she knows that at midnight, or perhaps before, the vessels will be near that part of the rocky coast where she is; the sailors will look out for the beacon. But her father! He is not coming yet! Is it possible? There will be no light to-night; the vessels will be wrecked!

The poor child sat down and cried. But presently she thought of the text which she had learned that morning: it was this, “CALL UPON ME IN THE DAY OF TROUBLE; I WILL DELIVER THEE, AND THOU SHALT GLORIFY ME.” Psa. 50:15. So she knelt down and prayed. She asked the Lord to be with her, and to show her what to do. When she had finished her prayer, she felt so strengthened that she began to think whether, if her father did not come back, she could possibly light the lamps. She went up into the , lantern, but there were the lamps, far, very far, out of her reach: she was but a little girl, she feared she could do nothing.

And now evening was fast coming on. At sunset the lamps should be lighted; and if they are not, the howling tempest tells her that on that dark night there will be fearful wrecks. She takes one more look towards the shore; but her father is not coming, and she resolves to make another attempt. First of all, she kneels down again to pray; then she carries her father’s ladder up into the lantern, and mounts upon it, to see how nearly she can reach the lamps. But she is still a long way off. There is but one more moveable thing in the house which can be of any service; it is a small table, which, by dint of great exertion, she carries up step by step to the top; she puts the ladder upon the table, and joyfully jumps upon them: now she thinks she shall surely be able to reach the lamps. But, alas! she cannot; she is within a few inches, but she cannot reach them; she might just as well be on the ground; all her labor is lost.

The sun has just gone down, and the storm is increasing in violence. The sailors get nearer and nearer to the rocks. They look out for the lights. Where are they? Have they mistaken their course? They are in great fear. The father in the shed is praying for his little girl, that she may be guided aright, although how it can be he does not know; and she, alone in the lonely tower—no, not alone for God was with her. All of a sudden she thought of her mother’s family Bible. Down she ran to fetch it, brought it up into the lantern, climbed on the table, then up the steps, and laid down her Bible upon them.

She paused a moment. Her mother had taught her to reverence even the outside of that sacred book. “I cannot bear to stand upon dear mother’s Bible,” thought she; “but, if she were here, I think she would bid me do so now. I must try to light the lamps.” So up she climbed, stretched out her little arm to the utmost, lifted up her taper, and in a moment or two, there shone out a lamp upon the black deep, then another and another, and at length the whole lantern sent forth its accustomed light, far, far, out on the stormy sea. The sailors saw the light, and by its help steered their course in safety. The father heard of it too with delight. The wreckers were disappointed of their unlawful gain; for there were no Wrecks that night.

Over the dark and stormy waters of a benighted world, millions of our poor fellow-creatures are hastening onward to destruction. There are dangers all around; but they see them not. But is there no light? Yes, indeed there is: “I,” said the Lord Jesus, “I am the Light of the world, he that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life” (John 8:12). Again, “I am come a light into the world, that whosoever believeth on Me should not abide in darkness” (John 12:46). He was given “for a light of the Gentiles, to open the blind eyes, to bring out the prisoners from the prison, and them that sit in darkness out of the prison-house” (Isa. 42:7). He is the “Sun of Righteousness,” who will arise upon this spiritual dark and dead world “with healing in His wings” giving not only light but life (Mal. 4:2), for, “in Him was life, and the life was the light of men” (John 1:4). At all times it may be said, “Truly the light is sweet, and a pleasant thing it is for the eyes to behold the sun:” but to the poor mariners on that dark gloomy night, the light was not only sweet and pleasant, the light was their life, as the little girl in the light-house well knew. In like manner the Lord Jesus Christ is not only “the true light,” but He is “the resurrection and the life,” for He alone “giveth life unto the world” (John 6:33). When He was on earth, He not only gave sight to the blind, but even life to the dead. Jesus is the sinner’s all. He is the way, the truth, and the life.” Happy they who can say, “The Lord is my light and my salvation,” and who, seeing this light, walk in it, and “shine as lights in the world.’

Dear young reader, do you ever think, as did this little girl, “I am too young, I can do nothing, I cannot light the lamps”? Remember, she did light them nevertheless. First she prayed,—prayed in earnest. Then she did what she could, she tried her utmost, and she was rewarded with success.

If you will open your Bible to the 5th chapter of the 2nd Book of Kings, you will see an account of another noble-minded little girl. She had been taken captive in war, and carried away into a dark heathen country; but there you will see how brightly her light shone forth. She did what she could, and this is all that the Lord asks of you. But see to it, first of all, that you have this light in yourself. Pray that “God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, may shine into your heart, to give you the light of the knowledge of the glory of God, in the face of Jesus Christ” (2 Cor. 4:8). Then, as one of God’s “peculiar people,” see that you “show forth the praises of Hint who hath called you out of darkness into His marvellous light” (1 Pet. 2:9).

So let our lips and lives express

The holy gospel we profess;

That men may see our virtues shine,

And own the doctrine is Divine!”

Messages of God’s Love 3/12/1911

Ruins

THESE ruins are in Italy on the road from Tivoli to Rome. Tivoli is a town beautifully situated on the spur of a mountain seventeen miles east-north-east of Rome. The ruins near this city are wonderful relics of beautiful, costly buildings of a bye gone day. The stones are crumbling, the pillars are breaking. The plants which grow over the ruins seem to hold them together and hide the crevices that time has made.

Change and decay in all around I see, O Thou, who changest not, abide with me.

Man, too, is in ruin. He has gone far from God, and death has come in as the result of sin. Children too must answer for sin, and unless you come to the Lord Jesus, the older you grow the farther away you will get from God. “The wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Rom. 6:23. He goes out to seek and to save that which is lost, and He wants to bring you home rejoicing. You need not stay in your sins, for Jesus offers you to-day a free and full salvation.

“THE LORD . . . IS LONGSUFFERING TO US-WARD, NOT WILLING THAT ANY SHOULD PERISH, BUT THAT ALL SHOULD COME TO REPENTANCE.” 2 Peter 3:9.

Messages of God’s Love 3/19/1911

Number Six

NUMBER Five!’ are you asleep? ‘Number Five!’ are you asleep? ‘Number Five!’ `Number Five!’ “

Such was the whispered call from an infirmary bed. Save for the faint undertones, the ward was still. The occupants had settled down for the night. And as the words were spoken thus, the midnight hour was chimed by a clock outside.

“Number Five” was gradually aroused. At first he thought he must be dreaming, but as the call was repeated, and muffled sobs were mingled with the just audible words, “ ‘Number Five!’ ‘Number Five!’ “ he turned to see who was addressing him. To this great but pleasant surprise he found it was “Number Six” who was thus endeavoring to attract his attention.

“Yes! I am awake,” he replied; andthen asked, “What is it?”

But to make the resulting conversation more intelligible, let me take you back in thought for a few moments to that which led up to the anxious cry of the sick man.

“Number Five” is an earnest Christian. When he learned first that he would have to go to the infirmary and undergo an operation, he had prayed again and again not only that he might recover if it were God’s will, but that he might be the means in some way of bringing glory to the precious name of the Lord Jesus, whom he loved. His wife and some Christian friends had joined him in these requests. He little knew how the answer would come.

He was very ill when he entered the ward, and his spirit was distressed as he found sin abounding amid all the sickness and sorrow of the place. As far as he could judge there were none there who cared for the things which were dearest to his heart. The joy and peace which gladdened his life were unknown to those with whom he was now brought into such close contact.

Feeling his loneliness and weakness he cast himself upon his Saviour’s strength. And that strength became perfected in the servant’s weakness. He was enabled to

“Dare to be a Daniel,

Dare to stand alone;

Dare to have a purpose firm,

Dare to make it known.

A good start is important in a race or in a journey. It is especially important in our Christian career, and when we are forming new associations.

“Number Five,” as he was now to be known in the infirmary, boldly knelt down by his bed and prayed before them all. He would not hide his colors. He would own whose he was and whom he served. Bowed thus he interceded for his new companions, desiring that his God might become their God, and his Saviour their Saviour.

When he rose from his knees, he found himself laughed to scorn and derided. “Lunatic! lunatic!” they called him. Patients and nurses alike joined in mockery.

To their surprise he answered never a word, and in that hour of trial he was succoured and encouraged abundantly. He thought of his Master who had trodden the path of rejection before him. Gethsemane and Calvary were vividly presented to the vision of his mind. The words, “He is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so He openeth not His mouth,” comforted him. All this and how much more the Lord Jesus had done for him. Should he not suffer and witness for Him in his little measure? If he felt pain and sorrow and loneliness, it was nothing compared to the pain and sorrow and loneliness which He felt when He cried, “My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?”

“Number...Five” says, “I felt I was alone, and yet I was not alone, for I had the best company that either rich or poor, small or great, could ever have. The best friend to have is Jesus!’ for while Satan was roaring, as it were, about me, Jesus and His divine presence and power enclosed me. To harm me with either words or actions meant to harm or hurt my Master first. With such an enclosure and such a Friend I was enabled to smile through tears at pain and mockery.”

The worst among those who derided and laughed at “Number Five” was the one who occupied the next bed on the left side of our friend, and was known as “Number Six.” He it was who had awakened him at the midnight hour a few days after “Number Five” had been introduced to the infirmary.

When “Number Six” was asked why he had called “Number Five,” he replied, “I am sorry to rouse you, but I cannot help it. I cannot sleep these last two nights and am most miserable. I want you to forgive me for making fun of you when I heard you praying and when you read your good book. Will you?”

Through tears of joy “Number Five” answered, “Friend, don’t let that bother you. As Christ forgave me, I forgive you freely with all my heart. I must say it upset me a little and hurt me at the time, but I have prayed for you since.”

“You addressed me then as ‘friend?’ I have been no friend to you,” he said; “but from now you have my hand and heart. Little you think how I have been watching you and how I have tried, especially this last night or two, to catch your words as you prayed. I heard you saying, ‘God bless “Number Six.” ‘ I wondered how you could really smile at my hard words and says ‘God bless “Number Six.” ‘ “

He went on to give the story of his life. it had been a bad one. Drink, gambling, and wickedness of every kind had stained his career. He closed the account with the words, ‘Number Five,’ that is what has brought me where I am now, and I shall never go out of here alive.”

When he was told how sorry his listener was for him; he said he should very much like to hear the story of his life, and that he was sure it would do him good. He also stated that he had been brought up in religion, as to which he said a great deal, concluding, “I never saw where it made any one smile at pain, or pray for anybody that hated or did harm to them. I have closely watched every movement of your life in the ward, and I would like to know the meaning of it.”

After reading a letter which “Number Six” had received, and speaking a little about it to him, the life-story desired was told. The precious Saviour and His finished work on Calvary’s cross were quietly spoken of. The Friend above all other friends was pointed to. Soon it became evident that the grace of God had reached him and that he believed the good news. Then he said he would like “Number Five” to pray for him. He did so and read a verse or two from the Word of God and talked of it again. Then “Number Six” knelt up in bed as well as he was able to and cried to God in humble, broken language. He begged for mercy as to his past life and asked God to make him like “Number Five,” for Jesus’ sake.

“Don’t pray that God will make you like me, but pray that God will make you like Jesus, and ask Him for grace and strength to face the enemy and boldly testify what the Lord has done for you,” said “Number Five.”

So he prayed again, asking that God would help him to face his mates in the other beds and stand by him; in conclusion adding, “God, don’t forget to bless `Number Five’ for being awake with me all night.”

It was now 4:15 a. m. The midnight of sorrow and sin was past—the morning of happiness and righteousness had come. “Number Six” was a saved man. It was soon his turn to witness for Christ instead of against Him as aforetime. With tears streaming down his furrowed cheeks he boldly stood and told of the saving grace of God, and while they laughed at him scornfully, he said how he hoped their eyes would soon be opened as his had been.

Day by day his light shone clearly and steadily before them all. All in the ward could see the two believers read the Word of God together and encourage one another in His things. They were evidently rejoicing in the grace of God which they knew—that grace which had provided an all-sufficient Saviour whose precious blood cleansed them both from every spot and stain of sin.

“Number Five” was shortly after able to leave the infirmary to go back to his work and to witness for Christ in other surroundings.

`Number Six” shortly after left the infirmary to be with Christ his Saviour, “where sin, nor want, nor woe, nor death can ever come.”

Messages of God’s Love 3/19/1911

This Is How I Know

How do I know my sins are forgiven? Because I believe, and God says of a11 who believe—Little children, . .your sins are forgiven you for His name’s sake. 1 John 2:12.

How do I know I am justified? Because I believe, and God says of all who believe—All that believe are justified from all things. Acts 13

How do I know I am redeemed? Because I believe, and God says of all who believe—In whom we have redemption through His blood. Ephes. 1:7.

How do I know I am not condemned? Because I believe, and God says of all who believe—There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus. Rom. 8:1. ‘

How do I know I am saved?

Because I believe, and God says of all who believe—By grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God. Ephes. 2:8.

How do I know I have everlasting life?

Because I believe, and God says of all who believe—He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life. John 3:36.

How do I know I shall never perish? Because I believe, and God says of all who believe—They shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand. John 10:28.

Messages of God’s Love 3/19/1911

Thou God Seest Me

Genesis 16:13 Psalm 139:1-12

A YOUNG lady who lives at C said she would like to have a large printed text to give a little girl in her class in the Sunday school. This little girl wanted to do something which she knew was wrong, and she said to another in the class, she should not like her teacher to know it. She had forgotten that there is One whose eye is in every place. and knows all we do, and all we say , and more than that, even our very thoughts, are all known to Him. You will ask, What was that text the lady wanted for the little girl? You may find the words in the thirteenth verse of the sixteenth chapter of Genesis. I hope we may never forget, but delight in them—

Then will our joy and gladness be,

That God in every place can see.

Messages of God’s Love 3/19/1911

A Problem - What Doth It Profit?

YES this is a problem of profit and loss. Some of our readers have had such problems at school, and understand all about them, yet they have not answered the problem given here.

The little girl in the picture is deep in some problem. Her lesson may be hard, but if she is in earnest she will master it. Now here is the problem we ask you to solve to-day.

“WHAT IS A MAN PROFITED, IF HE SHALL GAIN THE WHOLE WORLD, AND LOSE HIS OWN SOUL?

OR WHAT SHALL A MAN GIVE IN EXCHANGE FOR HIS SOUL?” Matthew 16:26.

Which is more valuable to you, your never-dying soul or the whole world? Do you prefer to have that soul of yours saved for all eternity, or rather would you possess some of this world’s goods for a few fast-fleeting years? We bring nothing into this world, and it is certain we can take nothing out, so what is your answer to the problem?

Is there anything that you would give in exchange for your soul, that soul that never dies? The body may crumble to dust, but your soul—where will it go when called from this world?

Do you wish to enjoy this world while in it, and do you desire to possess much of its riches?

Or will you esteem it greater riches to be a child of God by faith in Christ Jesus?

Messages of God’s Love 3/26/1911

Bible History

Chapter 65. Numbers 27.
Moses’ Successor

THE Israelites were nearing the end of their wanderings through the wilderness. They would soon cross the Jordan and take possession of the promised land. The Lord said to Moses: Go to the top of Mount Abarim, and look at the land which I have given the children of Israel, for when thou hast seen it, thou shalt be gathered to thy fathers, because thou and thy brother Aaron failed to sanctify Me at the Waters of Meribah in the wilderness of Zin. Moses then prayed. the Lord to set a man over the congregation, who would lead them to Canaan, that they might not be as sheep without a shepherd. How unselfish of Moses, to think of the others, and not himself, at a time like this! How much like our blessed Lord who “pleased not Himself.” May we, like Moses, learn to live, not unto ourselves, but unto Him who died for us; and that it might not be said of us, as of those of whom the apostle Paul was speaking to the Philippians when he said, “All seek their own. not the things which are Jesus Christ’s.”

God told Moses to take Joshua, the son of Nun (who had pleased God by his faith in the matter of the spies, when he and Caleb resisted the murmuring people, and said to them: “The Lord will bring us into this land and give it us,”) and to lay his hands upon him, and to bring- him before Eleazar the priest, and before all the congregation, to give him a charge in their sight; and that the honor of Moses be put upon Joshua, that all the congregation might be obedient. Joshua would come to Eleazar the priest, who would ask counsel of God for him according to God’s directions. At his word, they should go out, and at his word, they should come in. Moses did all things as God had commanded him. He took Joshua and set him before Eleazar the priest in full sight of the whole congregation; there he laid his hands upon him, and gave him a charge, as the Lord had commanded Moses.

While it is beautiful to see Moses’ unselfish obedience to God, and his care of his people, it is also very solemn to note how sin must bear its punishment, no matter in whom it is found. We might think that this had happened long before, and that Moses, who was such a wonderfully faithful servant of God, had done much since to please God, and that God would pass over it, but it could not be. This brings to our minds the verse of 1St Peter 4:17 “For the time is come that judgment must begin at the house of God: and if it first begins at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?” If God cannot pass over sin in His own children, what will it be for those who refuse God’s substitute for them—the blessed Lord Jesus, who offered Himself to God, “the Just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God.” 1 Pet. 3;18.

Messages of God’s Love 3/26/1911

God Is Not Mocked

A LINEN weaver in S. had diligently worked for many weeks at a piece of cloth, and had only a few stitches to make with his shuttle, and then all would be finished. It was Saturday afternoon. He could still work away today, get his wages, and tomorrow spend a pleasant Sunday afternoon. “Wife,” he cried, “I shall soon be finished now.”

“If the Lord will,” said his wife, who was a godly woman. “Whether He will or not, I shall soon be finished” replied the weaver. He shot the shuttle very eagerly through the threads, but the force was too great; it fell down under the loom. The man, angry at his blunder, jumped down from his seat, and in doing so he slid between the foot-plate; and broke his leg, so that it took six weeks more, before he could say his piece of linen was finished.

“Go to now, ye that say, Today or tomorrow we will go into such a city, and continue there a year, and buy and sell, and get gain: whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away. For ye ought to say, If the Lord will, we shall live, and do this, or that.” Jas. 4:13-14.

Messages of God’s Love 3/26/1911

The Little Singer

O! no! That which I cannot understand, I cannot accept,” said Mr. B. to his friend H., who for several hours had vainly been trying to overcome the stubborn unbelief of his friend.

Sad at heart he left. Six months before, Mr. H. had first tasted the tender and merciful love of God, and had found peace through faith in the precious blood of Jesus. His friend’s state of soul troubled him much, and as often as he found an opportunity, he sought to tell him the message of salvation, but it seemed as though his friend’s heart grew still harder in unbelief, but he would not give him up; though often rebuked crossly. Towards the painful remarks of his friend, he displayed an unshaken meekness, and never ceased to pray for him.

One noon the two friends took dinner together at a hotel. After the meal and when just about to leave, there came from the adjoining room the sweet voice of a child, singing a pretty song.

“O, what a sweet and clear voice,” exclaimed Mr. B., the infidel, but at the same moment the voice of a waiter was heard, commanding the little singer to stop.

“Let the child come in here!” said Mr. B. to the enraged man, opening the door.

“No, sir!” responded the waiter, “we are strictly forbidden to allow such trash in the dining room; but if you will listen to her in the reading room, I have no objection.”

“It makes no difference to us where we may listen to such a sweet voice,” said Mr. B. to his friend. “Come, let us go into the reading room.”

With these words he followed the child, who walked ahead. She seemed to be about twelve years of age. Alas! poor thing; through the old worn-out shawl which hung over her shoulders, the thin and threadbare dress in which she was wrapped, could be seen. In the pale face, the traces of years of misery and sorrow were visible; her whole appearance was a picture to be pitied.

`The child seems to be sick,” remarked Mr. B. sympathetically, as he looked in her face, disfigured through want and misery. “What can you sing, child? Commence once more that pretty song in which you were interrupted before.”

“The girl put the shawl back a little, folded her hands over her chest and sang with as pure. and sweet a voice as any trained singer could have done, a simple song of that blessed and happy region above into which Jesus will usher His own. The contents as well as the expressive rendering of the song wrought visibly upon the feelings of the two listeners. When she had finished, Mr. B. asked the young girl where she had learned that song.

“In the Sunday-school,” she responded. “And do you believe there is up there a life of blessedness and joy?” searchingly inquired Mr. B.

“Yes, sir! I know it quite sure,” answered the girl in such a decided manner and tone that it quite surprised the two gentlemen. “Yes,” she continued, “up there I shall sing much more beautiful songs.”

“You will be singing up there? who has told you that?” again asked Mr. B.

“Mother has told me,” came from the lips of the child with a shadow of sadness passing over her face. “She sang all my songs with me till she became sick; then she said, her lips could not sing any more, but in her heart she was making melody unto the Lord and she would soon sing songs of praise in heaven. But my dear mother was not always as happy; shortly before her sickness, a Christian lady came into our house, and told her about Jesus, who had come to save unhappy sinners. Then my mother cried a long time, and said she was lost and had no Saviour. I too cried a great deal. Often I had to read to her out of the New Testament which the kind lady had given to us. When I came to the place where it reads: ‘Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest,’ then all of a sudden my mother began to cry out for joy, and pressed me to her bosom and said that she had found peace, for the Saviour loved her and had forgiven her all her sins. And you see, Mister, soon after this my mother became sick, and I had to go and sing for bread, for my father too had been lying for two months on the sickbed. Alas, poor mother suffered much; but she was happy, till the Lord took her away out of this world to sing songs of praise to Him in heaven.”

With these words she covered her face with both hands, to hide the tears which began to flow down her pale cheeks.

“But you would rather live and sing your songs here, wouldn’t you, than to follow your mother in the grave?” inquired Mr. B.

“No, no!” responded the little one, “I would rather be where my dear mother is. I know, too, I shall follow her soon, for I often have pain in my side and I cough just as she did; up there I shall not suffer, nor hunger either; all is beautiful there!”

“But how do you know that?” asked the infidel.

“Mother had said so.”

“But your mother might have been deceived.”

“Deceived! Never! She has read it in the word of God, and God cannot lie!”

This simple but decided answer, together with a look which bore testimony of an unshaken confidence, reached the heart of the unbeliever.

Being much touched, he pressed a valuable piece of money into her hand. Rejoicing over the generous gift, she left the room.

“Come, let us follow her,” said Mr. B. to his friend, who was not less moved, “I should like to see the misery of the poor close by.”

Gladly his friend consented; and both followed the girl, unobserved, through several streets of the city, till they came to the door of a small house, into which the child had disappeared. After a little consideration they stepped inside; groping through the dark hallway, they came finally to a room in which they noticed the sick father lying on a miserable heap of straw. Before him knelt the little one telling the attentive listener what had just happened. The two friends heard these words: “See, father, how much money I have; two kind gentlemen gave it to me. Now I can make a strengthening meat broth. Surely, the Lord Jesus has answered my prayer today.”

(To be continued.)

Messages of God’s Love 3/26/1911

Bible Questions for April

Answers to Bible Questions for February

“Jesus said unto him,” etc. John 21:22.

“Greater love hath no man,” etc. “ 15:13.

:3. “He that loveth his life,” etc. “ 12:25.

“And there are also,” etc. “ 21:25.

“Father, I will,” etc. “ 17:24.

“When Jesus therefore,” etc. “ 19:30.

“Then she runneth,” etc. “ 20:2.

Bible Questions for April

The answers are to be found from the l3th chapter of Acts to the end.

Write the verse containing the words, “I am Jesus.”

Write the verse containing the words. “Draw away disciples.”

Write the verse containing the words. “Thpu shalt not speak evil.”

Write the verse containing the words, “He hath ordained.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Prayed with them.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Almost thou persuadest me.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Righteousness.” “Temperance.”

Messages of God’s Love 4/2/1911

The Little Singer

(Continued.)

Before the old man had time to answer, their attention was attracted by the entrance of the visitors. With glad surprise the girl recognized her kind benefactors, and led them to her sick father. He stretched out his thin hand to them and said: “I think you, gentlemen. I have been sick for several years and sometimes suffer hunger with my daughter. May the Lord reward your kindness.” Soon a conversation started, and Mr. B. had opportunity to see here in circumstances of extreme misery, the power of a living faith; for since the death of his wife the man too had found peace with God, and had much comfort amidst many hardships and poverty. With the promise to soon renew their visit, the two men left the sickbed.

After several visits had passed, they noticed that the sick man grew worse, although he was no more in want, for the two friends supplied him with all he needed. One morning, as again they were nearing the little house, they met a funeral. The old man had died, and the little singer was now altogether an orphan and also sick. They found her on the same bed from which God had delivered her father after long suffering. She was pale; the last days had changed her very much, though her eyes showed an unchanged brightness, and they rested a long time on the face of Mr. B. who was sitting before her.

“You are very sick, my child. Have you much pain?” he inquired in sympathy.

“O no, sir!” she answered smiling. “I am very happy, I feel no pain at all. My father is gone to heaven, and now the Lord is going to take me home, too.”

She paused a little and then continued: “I wish I could sing one more song for you.”

“What! You would like to sing?”

“O in my heart sound all those lovely songs, much nicer than I have ever sung them. I cannot sing any more, but above with Jesus I shall sing again, there I won’t be sick either.”

“Do you love your Saviour so much that you would like to sing to Him?” asked the Christian friend, Mr. H.

A beam of heavenly joy transfigured, as it were, at this moment, the face of the dying child, and in tender and heartfelt voice she said:

“Do I love Him? Him who bore my sins on the cross and is now coming to take me home, to be with Him forever? Yes, I love Him, but He loves me, far more; He loves me as no one else can love.”

Mr. B. stared at the floor. The joy of the child laid bare his own misery, and the question: Can you, too, meet death with such rest and joy? pierced like an arrow his very being. One more look he cast upon the joyful face of his little friend, then, overcome by emotion, lie broke down, sobbing aloud.

“Do not weep, Mr. B.!” entreated the girl. “See, I am so happy, so very happy. I have suffered much when mother and father were sick, but mother said, the Lord Jesus would soon make an end of all suffering. He is going to do it now, and that’s why I am so happy. He led me to find you in the hotel; you have been very kind to me, and father has said the Lord would bless you and make you happy. But, oh, how tired and sleepy I am.” She uttered a few more words, and then sleep overcame her, silently the two friends looked at each other, and then again at the sleeping one.

“O,” said Mr. B., breaking the silence, “all my possessions I would give if my heart had such peace.”

“You may have it without any cost,” said his friend. “Become like this child, who simply believes in Jesus. Keep your thoughts subject to the word of God. Must not reasoning be silent in the presence of a faith which gives this poor child such joy at the very hour of death?” Mr. B. was silent. The power of the love of God had touched his heart.

The sleep of the little girl lasted for several hours, but the two friends would not leave her, for it was evident that her decease was near at hand. Her breath was more irregular and the face showed the paleness of death. At last she stirred. With a wild and absent look she gazed around the room; she seemed to have lost consciousness and knew no one.

Mr. B. bent over her. “Are you happy, my child?” he asked. She seemed to listen; and with an indescribable expression of joy passing over her face, she lifted her arms up with all the strength still remaining, and whispered: “Jesus!—glorious!—sing!”

The arms sank down; the tired head fell back on the pillow; and in a few moments the little singer was gone home to sing songs of praise and adoration to the Lamb, who had redeemed her.

Mr. B. stood unmovable before the little corpse. Strange, the strong man, who, not long before, in his unbelief, had said: That which I cannot understand, I cannot accept,” broke down on the face of such revelation of the power of faith against the King of terrors—death; his hard heart melted. What he could not comprehend, he saw here before his eyes. Turning to his friend, he said in grave and earnest tone: you pray with me?”

Beside the bed of the little singer, whose songs had ceased on this earth, the two friends knelt down, and their earnest sobs and prayers for the forgiveness of the unbeliever, were changed gradually into thanksgiving and praise for the wonderful grace, of God. Yes, grace had triumphed. Mr. B. found peace through faith in Jesus, and, falling into the arms of his friend, he exclaimed: “Blessed be God! Now also know that my sins are blotted out for ever through the precious blood of Jesus.” Can you say the same, my dear reader?

Messages of God’s Love 4/2/1911

Joppa

THE city we see in the picture is Joppa, and is in the northern part of Judea, i n Palestine. If you, read t he book of Jonah, you will find how Jonah once went to this place when God told him to go to Ninevah. His disobedience caused him much trouble. If you have not heard the story of Jonah, read it for yourselves from the Old Testament.

What I want to tell you today is something that happened in Joppa about nine hundred years after Jonah was there, and just a few years after the Lord Jesus was on earth.

There was a woman living in Joppa whose name was Dorcas. She was very kind to the poor and made them many garments and helped them in other ways. But after a while she got sick and died.

At this time the Apostle Peter was in a town called Lydda—not far from Joppa. The disciples in Joppa knew this, and sent two men to Lydda to bring Peter to Joppa. When he reached the room where the body of Dorcas lay, he found poor widows there weeping. Dorcas had been very kind to these women, and they loved her, and were very sorrowful to think they had lost her. They showed Peter the coats and garments she had made for them while she was living. Then Peter had them all leave the room, and he kneeled down and prayed. Do you think God answered Peter’s prayer? Yes, dear children, He did. For when Peter spoke to Dorcas, she opened her eyes, and seeing Peter there, sat up. So she was restored to life again. The weeping friends were called, and were made very happy by seeing kind Dorcas alive.

You will find this story in God’s own word,—the ninth chapter of Acts, beginning with the 36th verse.

“HE THAT HATH PITY UPON THE POOR, LENDETH UNTO THE LORD: AND THAT WHICH HE HATH GIVEN, WILL HE REPAY HIM AGAIN.” Prov. 19:17.

Messages of God’s Love 4/2/1911

I Will Go With Him

MANY years ago a little child, who was dying, was asked by a friend, “Where are you going?”

“To heaven,” was the reply; and it was given with such a look of joy that it was plain the child wished to go. `’Why do you wish to go there?” enquired the friend.

“Because Jesus Christ is there,” said the little one.

“But what if Jesus Christ should leave heaven?” asked the friend, wanting to find out whether the child merely spoke in this way because he had been taught so, or whether it came from the heart. “What if Jesus Christ should leave heaven?”

‘Then,” replied the little believer, “I go with Him.”

Now I am sure I need not tell you that this child’ loved the Lord Jesus Christ. To that little heart dying there, wherever Jesus might be, was heaven; , without Him, even heaven itself with all its blessedness and joy, was not heaven to him. Jesus and His presence were to his heart all that makes heaven what it is.

I think this reply very beautiful. It was the fruit of God’s grace in this little child. It was like the answer of Ruth to Naomi: “Whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest I will lodge.” It showed that Jesus was all in all to this child, and that, come what might, he would cleave to Him. Nothing short of this is pleasing to God. Children, and grown-up people too, may speak about having believed in the Lord Jesus Christ, but if they don’t love Him they have not really believed in Him. No one can truly believe in Him without loving Him.

Now, I want to ask you whether you can say from your very heart what this dying child said? Do you so love the Lord Jesus Christ, that His very presence is your joy and delight? Can you say “Yes, I love Him, because He first loved me; He loved me, and gave Himself for me?” If you have really believed in Him you can; If you cannot, may God give you grace to do so.

Messages of God’s Love 4/2/1911

Results of Sin

WHAT beautiful creatures today’s picture shows us 1 They look so gentle and peaceful. They can run very fast, too. Yet they are often shot down by men who like to hunt them.

They are not safe. There are many other animals that men hunt and kill. And there are some wild animals like lions, tigers, and bears that kill and eat smaller animals and even men, whenever they have a chance.

Again, many creatures that have been tamed, as the horse, cow, dog, and cat, are often shamefully treated by man. They suffer from cold, hunger and other things. Dear children, can you tell me why these animals all have to suffer in this way? It is because of sin, which came into the world with the first persons that lived on this earth. The first man and the first woman both sinned, and the first child that was born into this world was a murderer.

Sin has continued and increased ever since—a period of nearly six thousand years. On account of it, the ground is cursed and brings forth thorns and thistles, and the world is full of sorrow and trouble. “For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.” Rom. 8:22.

But this will not always be so. Someday the Lord Jesus is coming to be King over the earth for a thousand years. The barren, wilderness places will blossom with beautiful flowers and fruitful trees, instead of thorns and thistles, and all God’s creatures will be tame.

“The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them: and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose.” Isaiah 35:1. See also Isaiah .11:1-9.

Men, women and children will then be kind and good, and not cruel as they so often are now.

“THEY SHALL NOT HURT NOR DESTROY IN ALL MY HOLY MOUNTAIN: FOR THE EARTH SHALL BE FULL OF THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE LORD.” Isa. 11:9.

Messages of God’s Love 4/9/1911

Bible History

The War With The Midianites.
Chapter 66. Numbers 31.

GOD told Moses that before he could sleep with his fathers (that is, before he could die) he must first avenge the children of Israel of the Midianites. So Moses commanded the people to arm themselves, and to go forth against the Midianites and to avenge the Lord. From each tribe, according to orders, one thousand men went out, armed for war and with them Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest carrying the holy instruments and the trumpets to blow, in his hands. He was the same who had shown himself so zealous for the Lord when the Israelites sinned, enticed by the Midianitish women.

The Israelites slew the five kings of Midian, and Balaam, the false prophet, who had advised Balak to seek to make Israel sin, and all the males. But they took captive the women and their little ones, with the flocks and all their goods. After burning all their cities and their castles, they brought the spoil and the prey to Moses and Eleazer the priest unto the camp in the plains of Moab. Moses and Eleazar with the whole congregation went to meet the warriors, but when Moses saw that the women had been kept alive, he was displeased, and reminded the people of the fact that these women had caused them to sacrifice to their gods. “Now, therefore,” said he, “kill every male among the little ones, and every woman.” Only the girls should be saved alive. Before entering the camp, the men of war were to purify themselves, their raiments, and all the spoil. All that could be purified by fire—the gold and silver—must be made to pass through it. All the rest must be washed in water. On the seventh day they would be clean and could enter the camp.

God wanted them to see how important, or rather necessary it was, they should purify themselves from that which had defiled them. The same now for us. When we have been defiled by sin, we must also be cleansed by the washing of the word, and if according to it, we go to God in confession, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.

Now the Lord told Moses that the spoil must be divided justly. He was to count up the whole sum of it, divide it into two equal parts. One for those who had gone to war, the other for the people who had remained in the camp. From the men of war, a tribute or tax should be levied, one hundredth part of everything for an offering unto the Lord, and from the part that had fallen to the rest of the congregation, one portion out of fifty to be given to the Levites who had charge of the tabernacle of the Lord. This was all done in obedience to God’s command. After this came to Moses the officers of the army, and the captain and said to him: We have counted men who went to the war under ow charge, and not one man is missing; we have therefore brought to the Lord as an offering to make atonement for our souls, that which each man has gotten of jewels of gold, chains, bracelets, rings, earrings and tablets. I am sure it must have pleased God to see them thankful for His being with them in their dangerous work, for keeping and bringing them safely home. Are we thankful for God’s daily mercies to us, and do we seek to show our gratitude in whatever way we can?

Moses and Eleazar took the jewels and brought them into the tabernacle of the congregation for a memorial for the children of Israel before the Lord.

“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.” Heb. 13:15.

Messages of God’s Love 4/9/1911

The Dying Shoemaker

An Extract

I HAD made a special mark against the name of a dying shoemaker in the street, where I had visited the day before, so went to see him first thing in the morning.

I can give no description of the state of the atmosphere on entering the house, before any windows or doors had been opened, nevertheless, I went in to see the poor sick man. He looked pale and very ill, and was so afraid of the cold, that he would not have the window opened; he even asked me to close the door. The poor man was starved in respect of nourishment, as well as air. But his soul was in a worse condition even than his body. I scarcely knew at which end to begin. The parish doctor had given him up, and told him he would soon die. This however did not alarm him. In his ignorance, he thought he was sure to go to heaven, because “he had suffered a sight in this ‘ere world.’ “ I suggested that people did not go to heaven because of their sufferings here, but for what Christ had suffered upon the cross for them. He was very unwilling to give up his hope, though it was so groundless, for he had been cheering himself, poor man, with the fancied prospect. It was hard to take away the little comfort he had—still I could not help trying my best to do so. I spoke to him about salvation, and the forgiveness of sins through the blood of Jesus Christ; and told him that he was a lost sinner.

“Oh no!” he replied, “I’m not lost at all—not I, nor do I mean to be. Poor people don’t go to hell, as far as I know its only the rich.” He persisted that he was not a sinner; no certainly not. He was not like many in that street: he did not drink, steal, fight or swear. He had struggled hard to support himself and his wife. He had worked until the hammer dropped out of his hand, and he could sit up no longer. He was quite sure he should be safe enough when he got to heaven, and he did not care for a better salvation than that.

I asked him if he ever prayed. “Of course, I’m a praying man,” he answered, “I says a great many prayers, and some of them very good ones, too.”

I then offered to pray with him, and hard as it was, I knelt down in that dreadful place, but I soon forgot my surroundings, as I told the Lord about this poor man, his darkness of soul, and his serious illness. I besought God to open his eyes by the power of the Holy Spirit, to show him his dangerous condition, and also the great salvation there was for him in Christ Jesus.

When I first began to pray, the poor fellow was very restless, and muttered, “It’s no good praying like that, I ain’t as bad as all that,” and so on. But when I rose, his wife thanked me, and asked me to come again, and he added, “Come, this afternoon.” I promised to do so, and leaving a text with him, I went out into the street again.

In the afternoon I returned. This time I found the poor shoemaker in a very different frame of mind. He no longer wished to die, but was afraid he might die, before he was saved. He wept much when I told him of God’s love to sinners, and His willingness to forgive them for Jesus’ sake; again I prayed with him, thanking God for opening his eyes, and left him until the evening.

The third time I called on him, I found him rejoicing and praising God.

“Oh,” he exclaimed, “only think if I had died before, I should have been lost forever; but now thank God I know I am saved, and I am so happy.” It was wonderful to hear him, telling to friends who came in to see him, how he had been saved through the word of the Lord Jesus Christ. He was not now clinging to vain thoughts of his own good works, but only thankful to trust in the all sufficient work of another.

“After that the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man appeared, not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us.” Titus 3:4, 5.

Messages of God’s Love 4/9/1911

Danger

DEAR readers, see the interested, anxious faces of these men and women. They are down at the edge of the water, and near them the waves are tossed high by the wind. Far out in the water something is happening. What do you think it is? We fear that a boat has struck the rocks, and that the people on board are about to be drowned,—perhaps already sinking in the water, and those on shore are unable to help them. Or perhaps the boat has already sunk, and husbands, brothers, and friends of those on shore are already drowned. Such accidents have happened thousands of times, and thousands of hearts have been saddened and homes made desolate by the loss.

But something far more dreadful is coming, and coming soon, to all who do not know Jesus as their Saviour.

But for those who do know Him soon, we know not how soon “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 CLOUDS, TO MEET THE LORD IN THE AIR: AND SO SHALL WE EVER BE WITH THE LORD.” 1 Thes. 4:17, 18.

Those who are left behind have nothing before them but a terrible judgment.

Are you, dear reader, one whom the Lord will take with Him when He comes? Have you believed in Him as your Saviour? When that blessed One suffered on the cross, all God’s judgment passed over Him, for He was bearing your sins and mine. And now if you take shelter under the precious blood shed on that cross, the judgment for you is past. You are safe forever. You will have the joy of meeting the Lord in the air.

Messages of God’s Love 4/16/1911

Bible History

Unwilling to Dwell in the Promised Land
Chapter 67. Numbers 32.

THE descendants of Reuben and of Gad, two of the tribes of Israel possessed a great deal of cattle, and when they saw the land of Gilead which had just been taken from the Midianite kings. They said this was just the place for cattle and went to Moses and Eleazer, and the princes of the congregation, and asked that they might be allowed to remain there, instead of crossing the river Jordan, with the rest of the people and entering the promised land of Canaan with them. But Moses was displeased, and said: Shall your brethren go to war, and you sit here? Why do you discourage the heart of the children of Israel from going over into the land which the Lord has given them? You are doing as your fathers did when I sent them from Kadesh Barnea to see the land. When they went into the valley of Eshcol and saw the land, they discouraged their brethren from going there, and the Lord was angry and said that none of the men twenty years old and upward should see the land promised to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. For this reason did they wander into the wilderness forty years, until they had all died. And now, you are risen up in your fathers’ stead, an increase of sinful men, to bring again upon Israel the anger of the Lord. And if you turn away from Him, He will again leave them in the wilderness and you shall have destroyed the people.

But the Reubenites and Gadites answered that they would build sheepfolds for their cattle, and fenced cities for their families; as to themselves, they would go armed to help them fight until they had conquered the land, then would return to their own. Moses spoke to Eleazar the priest, and Joshua his appointed successor, saying: “If the children of Gad and the children of Reuben will pass with you over Jordan, every man armed to battle, before the Lord, and the land shall be subdued ‘before you; then you shall give the land of Gilead for a possession, hut if they, will not pass over with you armed, they shall have possessions among you in the land of Canaan.” And the Gadites and the Reubenites answered; “As the Lord hath said unto thy servants, so will we do. We will pass over armed before the Lord into the land of Canaan, that the possession of our inheritance on this side Jordan may be ours.” So Moses gave the two tribes, and also half the tribe of Manasseh, the son of Joseph, their portion, and they built fenced cities and sheepfolds for themselves, their little ones, and their cattle, unwilling to go on to the land promised to them by Jehovah, that beautiful country flowing with milk and honey. Oh! how many of us are like them, knowing the Lord as our Saviour, and yet unwilling to set our hearts and affections beyond this poor world, on our promised Canaan, the “Father’s house” with the Lord as our daily portion, our hearts weaned from this present evil world!

“Set your affections on things above, not on things on the earth.” Col. 3:2.

Messages of God’s Love 4/16/1911

Rich and Poor Up There

A YOUNG soldier lay in a field hospital. He had been mortally wounded in a battle.

“My friend,” said the army chaplain, as he came to his bedside, “we will make a halt soon now.”

“Halt, so soon?” cried the sick man, “are we marching now into nightquarters?”

“Yes, the march is almost at an end, we shall reach the goal immediately.”

“Ah!” was the answer, “I understand, you really think I shall die soon.” The chaplain assented.

“Well, then sir, I am ready. I rejoice I am going to Jesus. He has finished all for me. I yearn to go to Him up there.”

He then requested the chaplain to convey his love to his bride and to tell her that he had gone to his Saviour and would expect her there. Shortly after he died in great peace, for he knew whom he had believed, and did not fear death, but rejoiced to go to Jesus.

Not far from the spot where the young soldier had gone into eternal life so joyfully, was a great estate. The owner had been visited by a friend of his youth, who was a decided Christian.

After dinner, he conducted him to the terrace on the roof of his castle and showed him the extent of his estate.: “Look” said he, “as far as the eye can reach belongs to me, 40,000 acres—all good fertile land.” .

“How much might it be worth?” asked the friend.

“Two million dollars at least,” was the answer, “And I gained it all myself. When I began I had not 10 cents.” And he looked around with pride in all directions.

“That is really a splendid estate!” said his friend; “Now permit me to ask one question, What do you possess up there?”

“Ah!” said the rich man as his eyes filled with tears, “I fear that up there I am poor.”

The friend pointed him to the Saviour and the unsearchable riches of His grace, which were his, if he would accept them.

We do not know whether he did or not; but we know that one year after, he died suddenly. In Luke 12:16-21, we read of one who had gathered much goods, but was not rich towards God. How does it stand with thee, dear readers? Where are thy riches? Where thy heart? Oh, see to it that thou halt a dwelling up there, “a house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.”

Messages of God’s Love 4/16/1911

Who Is This Jesus?

HERE is a sweet story of a little Indian girl. It shows how a few lessons learned in early life about Jesus, and the way of salvation, enabled her to be a great blessing to her stern old uncle, a great Indian hunter in the cold northland.

Astumastao was the name of our little Indian girl. It is a pretty long name, but it has a nice meaning; it means “Coming to the light.” She was born in a birch-bark wigwam, far north of the Nelson river, but she scarcely remembered her parents, for they were both drowned in the great Athabasca Lake, during a terrible storm, when she was only six years old. A poor little orphan girl, she was now cast upon the care of her relations, who treated her harshly, and often half starved her for days together. One summer it fortunately happened that there visited that country a devoted missionary, who was travelling through those wild regions, preaching the glad tidings of God’s free grace to man, among the different tribes. The boat in which he journeyed was made of sheet tin, and he had with him as canoe-men, two Christian ‘Indians. At last they reached the village in which the- poor little orphan was. Mr. Evans, the missionary, soon noticed the forlorn child, and asked her people to give her to him. This they readily agreed to, so Astumastao was taken to the far away mission home at Norway House.

Such a long long journey it was, of hundreds of miles, in the canoe, and many long rough portages to cross. When the child wearied on the way, one of the strong men would carry her, and at night they gathered old hay from the beavers’ meadows, or cut off balsam branches, to make her a cozy bed. For food they gave her the choicest pieces of the wild ducks or geese or beavers, which they shot on the way.

But at last the long journey came to an end, and you may guess what a ragged, dirty little girl ‘arrived at the Mission School. Soon, however, she was bathed and dressed in clean clothes, and oh! how different she looked. Now she was ready to go to the school, and learn lessons about Jesus and His love for little children, with other little Indian girls and boys.

She was a bright clever child, and it was not long before she could repeat numbers of verses out of the Bible, in her own language, and also sing several beautiful hymns.

But it was not with her head alone that our little orphan learned these verses and hymns. She listened with the deepest interest while her dear teacher explained their meaning, and deep into her heart the precious truths of salvation sank. She was not of the number of those, from whose heart the Devil plucks the good seed. No, the seed fell into “good ground,” in Astumastao’s heart, and brought forth fruit.

A happy year passed away, and then suddenly the poor child was claimed by another uncle. I cannot tell you how sorry the missionary and his wife were to see their little charge carried off in the birch bark canoe of the mighty hunter Kistayimoowin, but they were powerless to prevent it, and could only pray that the child might be kept in remembrance of the precious truths she had been taught.

So Astumastao had another long, long journey, and then a fresh life began. No more school, no more sweet singing of hymns, no more lessons about the good Shepherd. The long cold winter was beginning, and she had to chop wood, carry water from the distant lake, and do many hard and toilsome things. She seldom got a word of encouragement, and was sometimes severely beaten. But the child did not lose heart; she loved to sing over the sweet hymns she had learned, and often tried to repeat all the verses of Scripture she knew, so that she might not forget them, but more than this she tried to please the Lord Jesus, by doing her work, however hard and disagreeable it might be, cheerfully and pleasantly, and also she did her best to obey her uncle and aunt. There are not many little girls in our land who have to work as hard as poor little Astumastao, but I wonder how many do all things “heartily as unto the Lord and not unto men”? The Lord Jesus sees all we do, you know, and He never forgets any action, however small, which we do to please Him, and would it not be well worth a little trouble or self denial, to get by and by a word of encouragement, or praise from His lips?

(To be continued.)

Messages of God’s Love 4/16/1911

The Biter Bit

HERE is a poor cat with her paw caught in a trap. How do you think it got there? The cat was going to take the milk that did not belong to her and so she got into trouble.

Do you know, little reader, that we often get into trouble by doing things that ,are wrong?

Some years ago a minister of the gospel was preaching out on the end of a pier up in Canada. Among the people listening to him were two men whom we will call A. and B. B. was behind A and planning to push him up against the preacher. This would have pushed the preacher into the water, but he saw what these men were about to do, and when B. gave A. a push, the preacher stepped to one side, and A. fell into the water himself, instead of the preacher, who then said, “That was the time the biter got bit.” Many, many times in trying to do harm to others, we get the worst of it ourselves. “Whoso causeth the righteous to go astray in an evil way, he shall faIl himself into his own pit.” Proverbs 28:10.

In the little story you have just read, A. was justly punished for trying to push the preacher into the water. And whenever we wish harm to another, we deserve to have that harm come to ourselves.

On the other hand, if someone tries to harm you, be patient and do not return evil for evil. As Christians and little followers of Jesus, we will have to suffer much wrongful and unjust treatment for His sake.

“BE NOT OVERCOME OF EVIL, BUT OVERCOME EVIL WITH GOOD.” Romans 12:21.

Messages of God’s Love 4/23/1911

Who Is This Jesus?

Part 2

(Cintinued.)

FOR two or three years our little Indian girl lived quietly on with her uncle and aunt, singing her sweet hymns day by day, as she went about her work, or softly repeating the precious verses, which brought such joy to her heart.

But now a great trial came upon her; another uncle appeared on the scene, a hard, cruel, wicked, man, one who hated all white men, and their ways, and above all, the white man’s God.

He took no notice of Astumastao at first, though she tried her best to please him; but one day after a hearty dinner of venison, as both uncles seemed to be dozing over their pipes in the wigwam, she took up a half finished moccasin, and seating herself outside, began to work upon it, at the same time softly singing to herself; little by little her singing got louder, once more she was fancying herself back in the much loved Sunday-school, when suddenly her cruel uncle rushed out, and seizing the little girl, shook and pounded her until she quite lost consciousness, then flinging her from him, he strode away, muttering that he would poison the whole family if he ever heard such sounds against.

When Astumastao regained consciousness, she was lying on a bed of rabbit skin robes, and balsam boughs, in the wigwam, and her aunt was bathing her head with cold water.

It was a long time before she could remember and understand what had happened, but when, at last, her aunt repeated to her the cruel words of her uncle, she was filled with sorrow and distress. She knew that in future she must be silent; there must be no more singing of the hymns, whose words encouraged and helped her so much. “And then,” she said to herself, “I shall forget them all, and I shall forget all about Jesus.” But the Lord still had His eye upon the orphan child, and though she must not speak aloud of the things she loved, nothing could rob her of what was so deeply rooted in her heart. Far off into the woods she would wander, when not busy about her work, and there repeat her verses and hymns, and pour out her heart in prayer to God.

So years passed away, and Astumastao grew to be a tall maiden. She was beautiful to look at and full of life and brightness, but her uncle found her so useful in his wigwam, that he would not part with her, though various Indian: suitors had appeared, offering guns and blankets for her. For this she was thankful, as she could not bear to think of marrying any but a Christian, for all these years her heart had clung to the, truths taught her as a child, and she had kept away from all the Pagan dances and feasts around her, thereby often bringing persecution upon herself,;

One summer her uncle, Kistayimoowin, decided to take his wife and niece to camp upon a small island in a large lake. This was frequently done by these wandering Indians. The waters supplied them with abundance of fish, and there were ducks and geese in great plenty to be shot. The summer passed pleasantly and it was a great relief to the whole party to be free’ from the presence of Koosapatum, the second uncle, who, as you know, was a hard, cruel man.

Astumastao, emboldened by the increasing kindness of Kiotayimoowin, ventured to select a quiet bower in a secluded part of the Island, and there she daily retreated for singing and prayer, or aloud she would repeat over the Scriptures she still remembered. Several times, however, she fancied she heard sounds and imagined someone must be near her. How little she thought it was her old uncle, creeping softly to her retreat, that he might hear the good words about Jesus and His love.

One day when Autumn was drawing on, the old Indian had gone out in his canoe to shoot ducks, his gun was a poor one, and suddenly it burst in his hand, badly injuring him, and causing him to upset the canoe. He was so much hurt; that he could not swim, and called loudly upon his niece. She, fortunately, heard him, and springing into the water, succeeded in rescuing him, at the risk of her life. Carefully and tenderly she and her aunt carried the helpless man to the wigwam. He had lost much blood, and life seemed to be ebbing away, and for a time he lay in a stupor, then rousing himself, he feebly said, “Sing.” Astumastao was greatly surprised, but choking back all her emotions, she sang in her native tongue one of the first hymns she had learned. When two or three verses had been sung, the dying man said, “Who is this Jesus?”

Long years had passed since the Indian maiden had received her last Sunday-school lesson; much had faded from her mind, but still she was able to answer that thrilling question.

“This Jesus is the Son of God, who died to save us. 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’.”

The sick man was astonished and startled. “Say it again, and again,” he said. When she had done so, he whispered, “Do you remember anything more?”

“Not much,” was the reply, “but I know that Jesus said, ‘Him that cometh to me, I will in no wise cast out’.”

“Did He say that meant the Indian too? Are you sure he may go in the white man’s way?” asked the sick man anxiously.

“Oh, yes,” she answered, “I remember that, the missionary told us that God and His Son loved Indians as well as white men, and a verse says, “Whosoever will, may come’.”

“What did you say was His name?” “Jesus,” she sobbed.

“Take hold of my hand, my niece,” he said. “It is getting very dark, I cannot see the trail, tell me His name again.”

“Jesus,” she sobbed once more, and with that name upon his lips, he passed away.

Messages of God’s Love 4/23/1911

Jesus Had Done It

ELKANAH Beard, a missionary who worked many years in the East of India ‘ tells the following story of a little girl who lived with her parents in the city of Benares. He knew the family well and vouches for the actual truth of the story.

The mother of the child lay sick. She had not left her bed for many months, and saw certain death in front of her. Every hope of recovery according to human reckoning was closed.

Her little daughter was eight years old, and clung with the deepest affection to her mother. Her intelligence had early ripened, as is very often the case in these hot countries.

She saw her mother slowly sinking, and her young heart almost broke with the thought of having soon to lose her beloved mother.

One day as she was reading in her New Testament, she found there the promises which God had given to the believer. Among them she read: “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 findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.” ( Matt. 7:7, 8.) For some time she sat thinking, then she rose and entered the sick-room of her mother.

“Mother, dear,” said she, “can the Lord Jesus not make you strong again?”

“Yes, my child, He can indeed; but it is not His will.”

“Why not, mother? Have you ever prayed to Him about it?”

“No, my child. For see _____“.

“But, mother,” interrupted the little one eagerly, “I know that you often pray to God.”

“Certainly, I do.”

“And, what do you pray for then?”

“Ah, my dear, I cannot talk about it with you now; my pain is too great. Go away and play.”

The child hung her head, but accustomed to obey, she left the room immediately, and going into the garden, sat under a large tree. She thought and prayed there for a long time. Suddenly, however, she sprang up, went back to her mother’s room, and kneeling down at her bedside said:

“Mamma, the Lord Jesus has said: ‘Ask and it shall be given you.’ I will pray to Him now, and you, mamma, must pray with met” And without waiting for her mother’s answer, she began:

“O Jesus, dear Lord Jesus, my mother has been sick for three months, and I have no happy days now. She is so sick, that she cannot talk any more with her little girl. O Lord Jesus, she is so ill and has so much pain! O, make my poor dear mamma better again. Lord Jesus, Thou canst do it, and Thou wilt do it. Mamma loves Thee, and her little girl loves Thee——— “. All at once, she sprang up, and clapping her hands, cried: “He will, Mamma, He will, He will!” And what happened? On that very day, the mother, who for weeks had not been able to move a limb, rose up, dressed, and began as formerly to attend to her household duties. She was completely healed. How her heart rejoiced, and yet she felt deeply humbled.

When her husband returned home in the evening, he met her standing at the door and waiting for him. Deeply moved and with tearful eyes, he clasped his dear wife in his arms, who had been given to him again from God, contrary to all hope; and when he heard from her own mouth what had taken place, he sank on his knees, and thanked God, asking Him to make him worthy of the blessing that had so unexpectedly come to his home. His little daughter stood beside him and with her face beaming with joy, she cried again and again: “O papa, Jesus has done it! Jesus has done it!”

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

“According to your faith be it unto you.” Matt. 9:29.

Jesus how much Thy name unfolds

To every opened ear;

The pardoned sinner’s memory holds

None other half so dear.

The mention of Thy name shall bow

Our hearts to worship Thee;

The chiefest of ten thousand Thou,

Whose love has set us free.

Messages of God’s Love 4/23/1911

Indians

IN our picture today we see about forty Indians—some on the land, some in boats and some out on a pier. They seem to be interested in the ship we see off in the distance.

Over four hundred years ago; when Columbus discovered America, there were a great many Indians in this country, and they thought the white men were very wonderful. But the Indians were a savage, cruel people and when they saw the white men increasing in number and taking so much of their land, they did not like it at all. Consequently there were outbreaks from time to time and frequent fighting between the white men and the Indians. Now only a few of them are left.

Many of the Indians have heard God’s word and believed in Jesus. Some years ago an Indian whose name was Mr. R. had heard something about Jesus, and thought he would like to talk to some Christian. One day he was walking back and forth on the porch of a hotel in Canada. He could see into the dining room and there he noticed a man bow his head before eating his meal. Mr. R. thought this man must be a Christian, and, waiting till he finished the meal, spoke to him as he came out. Through him the Indian learned more about Jesus and accepted Him as his own Saviour.

What lesson, little reader, is there for you in this story? Do you let people see by your ways that you are a Christian? Our ways, as well as our words, tell people what we are. A faithful walk and testimony God will use in blessing to others. Let us pray for God’s help that we may let our light shine, and show in all our ways that we are His followers.

“LET YOUR LIGHT SO SHINE BEFORE MEN, THAT THEY MAY SEE YOUR GOOD WORKS, AND GLORIFY YOUR FATHER WHICH IS IN HEAVEN.” Matthew 5:16.

Messages of God’s Love 4/30/1911

Bible History

The Cities of Refuge
Chapter 68. Numbers 35.

THE children of Israel had arrived on the borders of the land of Canaan, promised to them of God. But before they entered it, there were many instructions that He would give them through His faithful servant, Moses, before the latter was removed. So as they stood in the plains of Moab, by Jordan, near Jericho, Moses told his people what were to be the boundaries of the promised land; to the south the wilderness of Zin, to the west the great Sea (now the Mediterranean), to the north, Mount Hor; and the entrance of Harnath; to the east the Chinnereth Lake, the River Jordan down to the Salt Sea. This land was to be cleared of its inhabitants. They must also drive the inhabitants out, else it would come to pass, that those left in it alive, would be as pricks in the eyes of the Israelites and thorns in their flesh. It should be divided by lot among the different tribes, except the two and a half tribes who had received their inheritance on the other side of the Jordan. But as to the tribe of Levi, who, we remember, had been consecrated to God, they were not to receive a set portion gotten by lot as the other tribes, but from each tribe they would receive cities with their suburbs to dwell in, to the extent of about eighteen hundred feet round about; the cities were for them to dwell in, and the suburbs for their cattle. Forty-eight cities they should receive from their brethren, six of which should be cities of refuge for the accidental man-slayers.

The cities of refuge were to be situated, three on the eastern side, and three on the western side of the Jordan, that they might be near at hand ,for a shelter for those in need of them. This was not for a murderer, for, for such the law was: “The murderer shall surely be put to death. The revenger of the blood himself shall slay the murderer when he meets him.”

But if a man had, by accident, and without any hatred toward him, killed his fellowman, he was to flee to the nearest city of refuge, for fear of the avenger of the blood. For it was considered the solemn duty of the relatives of the slain man to see that his blood should be avenged. The law of Moses said: “An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.” Since the Lord came in grace to us, however, it is quite different: “Avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written ‘vengeance is Mine; I will repay, saith the Lord’.” Rom. 12:19. The blessed Lord went further than that in principle, when He said, “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you and persecute you.” Matt. 5:44.

Now is the day of grace, and the day of vengeance will follow for those “who know not God and obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.”? Thess. 1:8. But under the law it was right, and the Israelites had God’s sanction when they punished evil. So as soon as a man had, without intent killed someone, he was to flee for his life to the nearest city of refuge. When there, he would stand at the gate and narrate to the elders what had happened. They would take him in and give him a place that he might dwell among them. And if the avenger of the blood pursue him, they could not deliver him up. And he would dwell in that city until the death of the high priest. Then the slayer could return to his own city, and to his own house. But, if, during the life of the then high priest, the slayer should venture outside the city gate, he was exposed to the avenger of blood. He was an exile, and could not

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Messages of God’s Love 4/30/1911

Grace Marston

“BORN once, die twice; born twice, die once.” These were the strange, striking words that Grace Marston listened to, falling from the lips of a preacher at a special service in a school room.

“Is that true?” asked Grace of herself, fixing her large brown eyes on the face of the speaker. She heard no more of what he said—but sat thinking—puzzling—unhappy. The Holy Spirit was speaking to her weary heart, and all other voices hushed before His: Grace was the vicar’s daughter, well taught, a Sunday-school teacher and parish worker, bright, pretty, and refined, yet to-night she came face to face for the first time in her life with the awful, solemn question, “Am I born again?” “How strange!” you exclaim; “surely she was ft Christian?’ Well, you see, Grace knew a great deal about the Lord Jesus Christ, but she did not know Him as her own personal Saviour; she had lived so long amidst meetings, preachings, and in an atmosphere full of God’s love and God’s truth that, like many others, she had never doubted for a single moment but that she was all right, and as much a true Christian as anyone else. I suppose it was the religion all round her that made her feel “good” (as she called it), and kept her from finding how truly she needed to be “born again” and “saved”—quite as truly as if she had been a godless, ignorant street girl, brought up without knowledge of aught that was good or holy.

“I must find out if I am born again,” said Grace to herself; “I wonder who can tell me?” And she wondered on all the next day, feeling very disconsolate. She wished with all her heart that she had someone to talk to!

The next evening the preacher resumed his subject, telling the well-known story of Nicodemus to whom Jesus spoke in plain terms, saying: “Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God. Nicodemus saith unto him, How can a man be born when he is old? can he enter the second time into his mother’s womb. and be born? Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God. That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit. Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again” (John ‘3:3-7). This second address struck, if possible, deeper into Grace’s heart, and the deep trouble of her mind showed itself in her face. Mr. E. the preacher, noticed it, and determined to manage a walk alone with Grace that evening to her home where he was staying. And he did manage it. Grace found herself half glad, half terrified, walking side by side with the preacher homewards, unable, yet longing to speak to him of the subject lying nearest to her heart. But Mr. E. was a man of prayer and tact, so, almost before she knew it, Grace’s heart and lips were opened, and the question put in startling earnestness.

“Mr. E., please tell me, am I born again?”

“My child, I cannot answer that question. You can. If you know nothing of God as your Father, and Christ as your Saviour, you most certainly are not born again.”

“But do I need to be born again, Mr. E.?”

“Even so,” responded her friend. “If you have never experienced the new birth, you must do so to enter heaven, for `that which is born of the flesh is flesh’ (John 3.:6). ‘They that are in the flesh cannot please God’ (Rom. 8:8), and ‘flesh and blood cannot inherit the Kingdom of God’ (1 Cor. 15:50). Therefore the Lord Jesus Christ said to a religious man: ‘Marvel not that I said unto thee, Ye must be born again’ (John 3:7).”

Several talks, Bible readings and searchings, followed in the next two days of Mr. E.’s stay. It was a wonderful time to Grace; and the last night of the services, when she stood in the village school-room, singing —

“O happy day, that fixed my choice

On Thee, my Saviour and my God!”

tears rolled down her cheeks, but they were not tears of anxiety now; but tears of joy.

Then her new life began. She was full of love to Christ and desire to be a blessing to others. Friends were spoken to, companions written to, her scholars prayed for and with. To one and all she told her secret, “I am born again,” and those who watched her day by day knew that what she said was true.

May I courteously ask, is Grace Mars-ton’s story yours? Are you good, kind, lovable, and “religious,” but not “born again”? Have you a second birthday in your life? Jesus said, “Ye must be born again.” Stop, like Grace, to-day, and ask yourself one question, “Am I born again?”

“Whosoever believeth that Jesus is the Christ is born of God.” 1 John 5:1,

might be near at hand ,for a shelter for those in need of them. This was not for a murderer, for, for such the law was: “The murderer shall surely be put to death. The revenger of the blood himself shall slay the murderer when he meets him.”

But if a man had, by accident, and without any hatred toward him, killed his fellowman, he was to flee to the nearest city of refuge, for fear of the avenger of the blood. For it was considered the solemn duty of the relatives of the slain man to see that his blood should be avenged. The law of Moses. said: “An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.” Since the Lord came in grace to us, however, it is quite different: “Avenge not yourselves, but rather give place unto wrath: for it is written ‘vengeance is Mine; I will repay, saith the Lord’.” Rom. 12:19. The blessed Lord went further than that in principle, when He said, “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you.”

Messages of God’s Love 4/30/1911

Bible Questions for May

Answers to Bible Questions for March

“Be it known unto you,” etc. Acts 13:38.

“And as John fulfilled his,” etc. “ 13:25.

“Then Peter opened his,” etc. “ 10:34.

“Who, when he came,” etc. “ 11:23.

“And said, Behold,” etc. “ 7:56.

“Which also said,” etc. “ 1:11.

“Whiles it remained,” etc. “ 5:4.

Bible Questions for May

The answers are to be found in Romans.

Write the verse containing the words, “Therefore being justified”.

Write the verse containing the words, “Therefore if thine enemy hunger”.

Write the verse containing the words, “Gospel”. “Salvation”.

Write the verse containing the words, “Judgment seat”.

Write the verse containing the words, “Iniquities”. “Sins”.

Write the verse containing the words, “Love”. “Sinners”.

Write the verse containing the words, “Strive together”.

Messages of God’s Love 5/7/1911

The World's Birthday

Chapter 1. Genesis 1:1.
“In the beginning.”

THE book of Genesis is one of the most instructive books. It is the foundation, the beginning and the anticipated explanation of all the others. How necessary it is then, before beginning the study of this book, that we should pray to God that He may give us understanding, and a teachable spirit—a spirit of meditation and prayer. You already know, doubtless, what is meant by the Greek name “Genesis” which this book bears. The name “Genesis” means the birth. In the time of our Lord Jesus, this, book was so named by the Jews who spoke Greek, because it was by this word, “Genesis,” that they translated the word “generation,” in the fourth verse of the second chapter. The expression used in our translation is; “These are the generations (or births) of the heavens and the ‘earth.” They had translated it thus—”This is the book of the genesis of the heavens and of the earth,” so we see that this is a most suitable title to be given to the first book of the Bible, for it makes known to us the birth of all things; the birth cf the heavens, and the earth; the birth of the Light; the birth of the atmosphere; the birth of the great lights of heaven; ‘the birth of continents and seas; the. birth of mountains and valleys; the birth: of ‘plants, birds, fishes and quadrupeds, then last of all the birth of the first man and woman; and then soon after, alas! the beginning of sin, and death by sin; but, also, the birth of the gospel or of the good news of the promise of a Saviour; then the new birth of the earth after the flood; and the birth of the nations who re-peopled it; and lastly the birth of the nation of Israel, by whom the Saviour of the world was to be waited and looked for, and among whom the Saviour was to be born.

You all know that Moses was the author of this book—that it was dictated to him from God who inspired him to write it while he was leading across the desert the millions of Israel; and at his death, Moses left it to be studied by them from age to age, and after them, by Christians of all languages and nations. “These words which I command thee this. day,” said Moses to the people of Israel, “shall be in thine heart: and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.” “Only take heed to thyself, and keep thy soul diligently, lest thou forget the things which thine eyes have seen, and lest they depart from thy heart all the days of thy life: but teach them thy sons, and thy sons’ sons.” Deut. 6:6-7, 4:9.

You see, children, God’s word is very, very important, and He wants us to obey it and not forget it; and we must read it continually so that we may not forget it.

Genesis is a very old book, but you may judge better how old it is when I tell you it was written 1491 years before the time of our Lord Jesus Christ. If we had not the book of Genesis, we should be ignorant of nearly half of the history of mankind on the earth. From Adam to Jesus Christ was a period of 4004 years, and from the time of our Lord Jesus Christ to our time 1910 years, which added together gives a period of 5914 years for the whole time man has been in the world from his creation, to our day.

Now, Genesis alone gives us the history of the world for 2368 years, that is to say, during the 1656 years from Adam to the flood, and the 712 years from the flood to the death of Joseph. You see then, that the book of Genesis alone relates to us more than half of the whole history of mankind. Without this first book of God’s word, what could we know of the creation of the heavens and the earth, of the wonderful six day’s work, of the birth of the first man and woman, their abode in Eden, their first state of innocence, of the trial of their obedience their fall and condemnation, of the first promise of a Saviour, even at the very gate of Eden, of the sacrifices, of the history of Abel the righteous, of the prophet Noah, the preacher of righteousness which is by faith, of the great flood which destroyed the old world and renewed mankind, and the history of man during the first four centuries which followed the flood, of the calling of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the promises made to them of the Saviour, of the patriarchs, of the going down of the children of Israel into Egypt, or of the story of the life and death of Joseph? And yet these are very necessary things to know: Let us thank God that He has given us this light, and think how we should value it, and with what reverence we should receive it.

(To be continued.)

Messages of God’s Love 5/7/1911

The Wonderful Works of God

DID you ever stop to think, dear children, of the many wonderful things that are around us all the time, and how each one of these things, if we were but ready to hear its voice. would speak to us of the God who created all things in heaven and in earth?

Perhaps the word “wonderful” makes you try to think about something very large and great, but that is not what I mean. Think of the little things—the blade of grass, the pretty little blossom, or the smallest leaf, and then, too, the little insect that you may find crawling about on the leaf. No doubt all these things are so common—that is, we see them so often, that they fail 10 attract our special attention, but I am sure that the One who created them is pleased when our thoughts are turned by them to Himself. If you will examine our picture for today, you will see that there are quite a number of different kinds of leaves—each one of its own peculiar type, but perfect in design. And if we could take time to study them carefully, we might see how each one is truly stamped with the finger of God as the All-wise Creator. And then, there are the pretty little flowers, which on the one hand make us think of the words of our blessed Saviour who Himself created them, who when speaking of the lilies of the field, referred to them as being more beautifully clothed than even Solomon in all his glory. But on the other hand, do they not remind us of those words in Peter where it says, “For all flesh is as grass, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away.” 1 Pet. 1:24. You see in the picture, the lady is picking some of the flowers, and no doubt, intends to make a bouquet of them. She may look at them, and enjoy their beauty and freshness for a day or two, and then they will wilt and fade away. And this is just like our lives. The word of God tells us that our lives are like a vapor that appeareth for a little time and then vanisheth away, and likens them to the fading flowers. O, children, your lives are too short, and fleeting, to spend them in any way but for the Lord, and then when the vanishing years of this life are past, they will be followed by an endless life of joy in His presence.

You know that He who created the flowers, has created us too, but with a wonderful purpose in view—that He might have us with Himself, in His bright home on high, for all eternity. And so He wants us, while we are still young, to give our hearts to Him, and learn to know Him as our Saviour, and live for Him down here, that we may live with Him up there.

Won’t you give your heart to Him today?

“Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth.” Eccl. 12:1.

“BLESSED IS THAT MAN THAT MAKETH THE LORD HIS TRUST.” Psa. 40:4.

Messages of God’s Love 5/7/1911

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 to-day, while yet there’s room,

And be forever blest.

Messages of God’s Love 5/7/1911

Sheltered

*****************

FATHER once told his little ten year old son to go and gather up potatoes in the field.

The little fellow went,

ly worked carelessly and unwillingly. The father no-

ticed it, called him over and asked him:

“Can you tell me, Willie, how much you have already cost me?” Receiving no answer, he told him he had reckoned it up that Willie had cost him about 500 dollars.

The boy opened his eyes wide with astonishment at such a great sum he had cost his father. He imagined he saw the actual pieces of money lying before him there in a heap on the ground.

He resolved in his heart to repay his father for all he had done for him, in striving to his utmost to be well pleasing to him in all things. His father’s reproachful question had done more than punishment would have done.

When I heard the story, the thought came at once to my-mind; What have I cost my Saviour? and the words of the Apostle Peter came to me: “Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and • gold, . . . but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot.” (1 Peter 1:18, 19). Yes, I have cost Him, not silver and gold, but His blood, His life, His wounds and pain, yea, God’s judgment. What He suffered and endured was for me, in Order to save me from eternal destruction. And should it not now be my daily endeavor to be well pleasing to Him, since He has paid so great a price for me?

“Our Saviour Jesus Christ, Who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.” Tit. 2:14.

Messages of God’s Love 5/14/1911

Sheltered

HOW much these little folks seem to be enjoying their play at the seaside! They have found a sheltered place, away from the waves which continually break on the shore beyond the rocks.

Here they can wade in and gather the pretty shells and sail their little boats. See, how shallow the water is, too, surely, it is an ideal place for little folks like these in the picture.

There was One who said, “All Thy waves and billows are gone over Me.” Do you know who that was? It was Jesus, God’s/well-beloved Son, who said these words, when bearing God’s judgment against sin on Calvary’s cross. There He suffered the punishment we deserved as sinners. There the “waves and billows” of God’s judgment were upon Him. Nov, do you think God will punish us, too, if we put our trust in Jesus? Surely not!

Are you aware, little reader, that you are a sinner, and in need of a Saviour? If not, may God show you your real condition before Him, that you may accept Him as your Saviour—the One who died in your stead. Then you will be truly sheltered from the judgment which God must send upon those who will not have His Son.

“GOD COMMENDETH HIS LOVE TOWARD US, IN THAT WHILE WE WERE YET SINNERS, CHRIST DIED FOR US.” Rom. 5:8.

Messages of God’s Love 5/14/1911

The World's Birthday

Chapter 1. Part 2
Genesis 1:1

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” Here are five words to be explained before we go further. What is meant here by “the beginning”? What is meant by “create”? What is the meaning of the name “God” or Elohim, here given to the Creator? Lastly what are these heavens and this earth, which were created by God?

“In the beginning,” these words teach us a truth of the most solemn importance; it is that the world has not always existed, that there was once a time when the things that are now in the heavens and on the earth were not yet made, neither you nor I, nor any man, nor any woman, nor any angel; when there was neither sky, nor earth, nor sea. What did exist then? God alone!

When. God proclaimed to Moses this great truth about the beginning of all things, all men except the people of Israel were going on to eternity like one walking in his sleep, in total darkness, that is, ignorant of this great truth; they had forgotten the knowledge of God which their first father (Adam)’ had; they knew nothing of whence they came, of their Creator, or of whither they were going; they were blind to the glory of God as shown in His works; their state is described by the apostle Paul: “Professing themselves to be wise they became fools.” Rom. 1:22. “Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God has shown it unto them. For the invisible things of Him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even His eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse. Because that, when they knew God, they glorified Him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish hearts were darkened.” Rom. 1:19-21.

Such is man without the light of God’s word, and such were they for centuries.

There were many wise among them, wise according to this world, but foolish as to the knowledge of God; and many believed that the world had always been.

The great Plato (who lived about 1100 years after Moses) believed that the stars were gods; and Pliny (who lived in the time of the apostle John) fancied that the world itself was a god. These poor wise men of a dark world were in a state of doubt on all the great questions of which we have been speaking. A little child with a Bible, is wiser than all the so-called wise men of the world without it, for it is by the word of God that we have the knowledge of the truth. “Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.” (Heb. 11:3.)

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth,” but when was this beginning? Remark that Moses says nothing of the time before “the beginning.” This is a time we cannot understand. It is a depth too great for man to look into, too great for man to measure. It is better not to try to reason it out; we do not know how long a time has passed since “the beginning.” One thing is certain, the heavens and earth had a beginning, however long ago it may have been. God alone had no beginning, “From everlasting to everlasting, Thou art God.” (Psalm 90:2). That is why He is called “Jehovah,” “I am.”

The Apostle John begins his gospel as Moses does his Genesis, “In the beginning.” .

“In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the , beginning with God. All things were made by Him; and without Him was not any thingmade that was made.” (John 1:1, 2, 3). Moses says, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” And John says, “In the beginning was the Word . . . . . . All things were made by Him.”

Then, was there anything before this beginning? There was God, and the Word who was with God and who was God. In our Lord’s last prayer while He was upon earth when He knew the hour was near when He was to leave the world and return to the Father, He speaks of having been with the Father before the beginning, He says, “And now, 0 Father, glorify Thou Me with Thine own self with the glory which I had with Thee before the world was.” “Thou lovedst Me before the foundation of the world.- (John 17:5, 24).

(To be continued.)

Messages of God’s Love 5/14/1911

Call the Children

THERE was along the English coast, a shipwreck one day and the crew was in great danger. On shore stood a few spectators, who, when they saw the danger, ran to the lifeboat to float it, and to save, if possible, some, or all of the unfortunate ones. I don’t know how it happened, but the boat stuck fast in the sand. Quickly there came the women, and helped to pull and push, but the boat remained unmovable. Finally some one said, “Why not call the children?”

The children were called, and a great crowd of them came and laid hold with their small hands; they helped with all their might, and, lo, the boat moved, and amidst their shouts it slid into the water. It was manned, and rowed out to the shipwreck, and soon all stood on solid ground. The children could not have moved the boat alone, but they helped, and their little strength was needful to complete the good work.

In, the Bible, too, we read how children have done certain things. Was it not a little boy who had five loaves and two fishes? But the Lord fed 5000 men with them.

You, also, can be of blessing to someone, if you are the Lord’s both at home, and in school, and abroad. And you can pray, and the Lord hears you when you pray to Him. The Lord blesses your little gifts too. When you pray to Him, you are not to speak with your mouth only, but with your heart as well, and when you have something to give to the poor, or for the Lord’s work, see that you do it with joy. First of all, you must give yourself to the Lord Jesus, and then you may serve Him, and you will do it with joy.

Messages of God’s Love 5/14/1911

May 21

The Pheasants

THE pheasants are beautiful birds and have a natural shyness and wildness, apparently impossible to breed out. They make their homes in long grass, willows or alders, and when frightened they start up with a tremendous wher-r-r and shoot off like the wind in search of new cover. They continually chase grasshoppers, flies and other insects for their food and seem to enjoy it as children do their play. But they, too, like all the rest of creation, have their pests and troubles. Hawks of various kinds come down upon them, and foxes, too, are bitter enemies. Then also a disease known as “gapes”, sometimes gets among them and causes a great many to die.

Why, one may ask, does God allow such a condition to be in His beautiful creation?

The answer is, sin has come in, in connection with the head—Adam—and so the whole creation suffers. Just in the same way as when a father is a drunkard,

the whole family suffers. But God will not always allow it to be so. He will make a new creation out of this ruined one, and every trace of sin will be done away. The head of this new creation is His beloved Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. He was the only One competent to bear the awful result of sin, and meet the righteous claims of a holy God, and He did all that on Calvary’s cross. He was forsaken of God, because He became the sin-bearer, and thus met God’s righteous and holy claims that stood against the sinner. Then according to all the value of that death, He will bring in the new creation, and there will be no more tears, nor death, nor sorrow, nor crying, nor pain. Everything will be perfect then, and the full result of the work of the Lamb of God on Calvary’s cross will be seen and enjoyed forever and ever.

Would you, my dear reader, like to be in that new creation? If you would, God does not ask you to do anything in order to have part in it, but simply believe in the Lord Jesus Christ as the Lamb of God. That One,’ who by His sacrifice, has atoned for sin—or covered sin by his blood—must be believed in; and if you do, you can say—”My sins are covered, blotted out and will be remembered no more.” Then you will rejoice in looking forward to the time when all things will be made new. At the present you may point others to the Lord Jesus and say, “BEHOLD THE LAMB OF GOD, WHICH TAKETH AWAY THE SIN OF THE WORLD.” John 1:29.

On the other hand, how dreadful it will be for those who will not believe in God’s Son. The scripture says: “But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with fire and brimstone: which is the second death.” Rev. 21:8.

Messages of God’s Love 5/21/1911

The World's Birthday

Chapter 1. Part 3
Genesis 1:1.

The next word “create,” means make of nothing; these things were not, but God spoke, and they were. Let us look carefully at the two words “created” and “made.” Now Moses shows the difference when he says God rested from all His work which He created and made. (Gen. 2:3.)

Man can make, but God alone ‘ can create.

A watchmaker makes a watch, but he does not and can not create it. He gets the gold, and the copper, and the zinc, and the steel, and all the other materials out of the earth, and then he forms them into a watch, but he could not have made it of nothing. These words, “God created,” ought to fill our minds with wonder and admiration! How far He is above all, not only above us poor worms of the dust, but above the highest of the angels!

The angels are commanded to worship the Eternal Son who created them, as it is written, “Let all the angels of God worship Him.” (Heb. 1:6.) These wonderful words, “God created,” make known to us still further what God is to us, and what we ought to be to God. God is all, and we are nothing. He can do all things since He has called all things out of nothing, and all things are His. “He upholds all things by the word of His power.” God knows all, since He has made all; the immensity of the heavens and the earth, from its surface to its center; the hearts of men and angels are all alike open in His sight. He has numbered the very hairs of our heads, and counted the sands of the sea, and measured, the dust of the earth, as He has also counted the unnumbered starry suns that roll on high in the heavens above our heads. “Lift up your eyes on high, and behold who hath created these, (the stars) that bringeth out their host by number: He calleth them all by names by the greatness of His might, for that He is strong in power; not one faileth.” Isaiah 40:26.

The same God who created all things, governs all things. He keeps them every moment by the same almighty power which called them into being at first—all creatures are depending upon God, they could not live if He did not keep them alive. The Psalmist says, “O Lord, Thou hidest Thy face, they are troubled: Thou takest away their breath, they die, and return to their dust. Thou sendest forth Thy Spirit, they are created: and Thou renewest the face of the earth.” (Psalm 104:29, 30.) This wonderful fact, “God created” is continually repeated, again and again, in every part of the Scriptures, by men of God, prophets and apostles, and in the worship of heaven, the saints, will ever remember this in their adoring praises. “The four and twenty elders fall down before Him that sat on the throne, and worship Him that liveth forever and ever, and cast their crowns before the throne, saying, “Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory, honor, and power: for Thou East created all things, and for Thy pleasure they are and were created.” Rev. 4:10, 11.

(To be continued.)

Messages of God’s Love 5/21/1911

Their Sins and Iniquities Will I Remember No More

HOW is John,” a servant of the Lord asked the mother of one who had brought sorrow to her heart. “Oh, he is so different now,” responded the mother, her face beaming with joy and she told how the Lord Himself had worked in his soul, and brought about the great change. She was grateful for it, and the past was forgotten. Never would she speak about it any more, except referring to it in contrast to the change to all so evident; and her heart seemed to go out more to this one than to any of the others who had not given her the same measure of sorrow and trouble.

We see the same in the father and the prodigal. The confession of his guilt was stopped with the kiss of his father’s love, and his outward appearance was changed to suit the father’s house and presence. Joy was there, because the lost one had returned home to the father, to go out no more. All the past was forgotten and never to be brought up again to him—-he was forgiven and received a son’s place for ever; endless union, and enough for him to feast on. “And they began to be merry.”

Messages of God’s Love 5/21/1911

The Story of Alolo

THERE are still many large districts in Central Africa into which white people have never penetrated, though every year missionaries are pressing on into new lands to carry the message of Christ’s salvation to those who sit in darkness, and in the shadow of death, and where the Spirit works in men’s hearts, there the light of the gospel shines.

Some distance up the country on the west bank of the Niger, stands a native town called Igbodo. There lived a great medicine-man, as wicked as he could be, and yet willing to entertain the missionaries as they passed through his town, and liking to have them for his friends. His wife’s name was Alolo, and some years ago she brought her little daughter to the mission-school that she might be taught to be a Christian, although she had not yet received Christ as her own Saviour.

Soon after, another little child was born which she felt had been given to her instead of the one which she had given to Jesus, and it spite of the opposition of her husband and of her people, she refused to have any heathen ceremonies performed after the birth of her baby. Soon it became sick, and her neighbors mocked her, and told her to go to the Christian’s God for medicine. Taking the little thing in her arms, she tramped six miles through the forest, but when she reached the house of the kind lady missionary, she found that she was away, and that the poor little baby was dead. What a sorrowful walk home she had, but when she laid the dear little body to rest, she thought of the resurrection, of which she had heard, and instead of her sorrow driving her back to the idols, it brought her right into her Saviour’s arms. She burnt her idols amidst a crowd of her heathen neighbors, and testified for Jesus so earnestly, that many of them longed that they too might find in Him a Saviour. But others opposed and persecuted her, especially when she tried to save twin babies which had been thrown away into the bush, for the natives think that it is unlucky to have twins, and always try to destroy them. She saved another little child from the cruel fate of being thrown into the grave with his dead mother, and she has adopted him, and is trying to bring him up for the Lord. When the missionaries were able to come to Igbodo, they found many women anxious to hear, and to receive the gospel, all the fruit of Alolo’s labors amongst them.

Messages of God’s Love 5/21/1911

In a Ring of Fire

AN ungodly European was once trying to convince a convert in India that his religion was of no use, and that he never would be any the better for it. “What, after all,” said the scoffer, “has your Jesus done for you?” “He has saved me!” said the native, with great animation; “He has saved me!” “And what is that?” said the European. “Step with me to the door,” was the reply, “and I will show you.”

So saying, he took him outside of the house, picked up a quantity of dry leaves and straw (of which there were plenty close at hand), and made a large circle of them. He then sought for a worm; and having found one he placed it in the center of the ring. Forthwith he applied a lighted match to the material that surrounded it, the scoffer looking on all the time with no little astonishment. As the heat of the fire approached the poor worm, it began to writhe and to show symptoms of distress; but could not get out of the burning ring. The man darted his hand through the smoke, plucked the worm out of its dangerous position, and placed it on the green grass, out of reach of all danger.

“There,” said he, “that is what the Lord Jesus has done for me: I was ex-. posed to the flames of hell—there was no possibility of escape; I was condemned and ready to perish, and He rescued me by dying for my sins, thus snatching me as a brand from the burning; and has given me a place near His heart.”

Can you thus speak of yourself as saved by the death of Jesus? Are you able to say, like the poor native, “He has saved me”? If not, we entreat you to come now, as a sinner, to Jesus, who is at the right hand of the Majesty on high, and He will give you rest. Take shelter in His blood, and you will be cleansed from sin, and delivered from the wrath to come. Hear ye the gracious words of God: “When we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly” (Rom. 5:6).

“In whom we have redemption through His blood, even the forgiveness of sins.” Col. 1:14.

Messages of God’s Love 5/21/1911

Death

WHAT a sad picture this is, showing a beautiful creature lying helpless in death! He was the prey of the hunter and had to give up his life.

Death is a sad and solemn thing, even if it is the death of only a creature that has no soul. It is hard to see our pet dogs, cats, and-horses die. Yet for them it is the end. We know they will never have any more suffering or pain.

How much more dreadful is the death of an unsaved sinner,—whose parting from this world ushers him into an eternity of woe.

But when a Christian dies,—how blessed! It may cause great sorrow to the loved ones who are left, to give up one whose presence and companionship gave joy and cheer. Yet in the midst of that sorrow, joy comes with the thought that the departed loved one is with Christ, enjoying a peace and happiness far beyond anything we can experience in this world.

Oh, dear reader, if you are not saved, stop and think. Do not go on in a course that will certainly carry you into unending pain and misery. Christ says, “I am the door.” That door of mercy stands open. Will you not enter in? There you will find blessing for time and for eternity.

“I AM THE DOOR: BY ME IF ANY MAN ENTER IN, HE SHALL BE SAVED.” John 10:9.

Messages of God’s Love 5/28/1911

The World's Birthday

Chapter 2. Genesis 1:1.
Three Great words, “God,” “Heaven,” “Earth.”

IN the last chapter we considered only the words, “In the beginning,” and “created.” From these words, you will remember, we learned two great truths: First, that
there was once a time called, “In the beginning,” when nothing existed but God alone.

Second, that God made all things out of nothing. He spoke, and from nothing came the heavens, and from nothing arose our earth, and all that is therein.

We have now to consider the latter words of the verse, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” Let us think of the meaning of these three words, “God,” “Heaven,” “Earth,” I begin with the word “God.” You must understand how very important it is, that, when the Creator of heaven and earth gives to men His written word for the first time, we should study with the greatest care all the expressions He uses: for as He sends us His word to make Himself known to us, He must, of course, have chosen among all possible names, those which might give us the true knowledge of Himself. The name “God” is the word from which is usually translated the Hebrew name, Elohim, used by Moses. If you, dear children, will notice carefully when you read your Bible, you will see that God has given other names by which He wants us to know Him, but you may be unable to understand all that might be written or explained about the glorious names of our God. This name in the first of Genesis is very appropriate where it appears, telling us of a Creator

God, the One with whom we have to do. How thankful we should be that God has been pleased to reveal Himself in His written word, His purposes, His ways, and what He has done for sinful men. It all demands universal reverence, adoration and worship.

Now, as to the rest of our verse, what then are these heavens, and what is the earth which God created in the beginning? The word “Heavens” is used to express the whole universe, all the creation of God, except the earth, all the starry worlds which we see above our heads.

“Earth” means this little planet on which you and I live, a planet so great when compared with man, but so very small when compared with the rest of the universe. Among the numberless starry worlds around it, our earth is only like an almost invisible atom of dust, yet as amongst all these great worlds it is the earth that concerns us most, because it is our dwelling place.

In Scripture, as well as in ordinary language the word “Earth” is used in two different meanings: sometimes it means the whole globe on which we live: and sometimes only the solid dust with which the globe is covered, which is supposed not to be much more than from nine to twelve miles in thickness.

First, the word “Earth” is used to express the whole globe in the first verse of Genesis—”In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” And it is also used in Isaiah, 40:22; and again in Job 26:7, where we are told that the Lord “hangeth the earth on nothing.”

Second, the word “Earth” is also used to express the solid and rocky crust with which our globe is covered, and on which rest the vast waters of the ocean. It is used in this sense in Genesis 1:10, “God called the dry land earth,” and as this word “Earth” has two different meanings in the Bible, so also the word “Heavens” is used to express three very different things.

The first “Heaven,” or “Heavens” is the air and sky over our heads and around us, the sky of the birds and of the clouds, the atmosphere, and it is in this sense that the word is used in Scripture where we read of the “dew of heaven” (Hag. 1:100 “the clouds of heaven” ( Matt. 24:30) “the four winds of heaven” (Dan. 11:4). “And the birds of the heavens” ( Jer. 4:25).

The second “Heaven” or “Heavens” is the starry heaven, far away beyond our atmosphere; where we see the sun, moon, the planets, and the countless stars.

The third “Heaven” or “Heavens” to which the Apostle Paul tells us he was carried, (2 Cor. 12:2) is the Holy place, or Paradise.

I shall first say a few words about the earth, that which God created in the beginning. First, you know the earth is round. (Isaiah 40:22.)

Second, we know that our earth goes around the sun once every year in an immense oval course, turning around upon itself, in the same way as a ball does when it rolls along. It turns round upon itself once in twenty-four hours, with a speed so great that at the equator, it moves at the rate of seventeen miles in a minute, or 1020 miles in one hour; and while it is turning thus, it is at the same time going around the sun at the rate of twenty miles in a second.

Third, the earth has been measured. It is 25,000 miles all around (in circumference), and nearly 8,000 miles straight through, (in diameter).

Fourth, this earth, although covered all round with a solid crust, is all on fire within; its interior is supposed to be a burning mass of melted, glowing metals, fiery gas and boiling lava. This was mentioned in the Bible, long before learned men had found it out for themselves. It is spoken of in the book of Job 28:5. We read also in Scripture of the mountains being melted like wax. (Psalm 97:5), rising and leaping like lambs, and raised from the depths of the earth by the force of the inward fire. This inward fire often breaks out still. “O Lord . . . touch the mountains and they shall smoke.” Psa. 144:5. “The mountains flowed down at Thy presence.” Isaiah 64:3.

The solid crust’ which covers it is inward fire is supposed not to be much more than from 9 to 12 mile.; in thickness. Whenever this crust breaks open, or is cleft in any place, there rush out lava, fire, melted rock, and fiery gases and ashes, sometimes in such floods as to bury whole cities. From time to time. we read of the earth quaking, trembling and sometimes opening. So great is the heat within the earth, that in some parts of the world where the springs are very deep, they bring to the surface the warm mineral water so much used for baths and medicine for the sick, and it is said, if you were to dig very deep down into the earth, the temperature would increase at the rate of a degree of the thermometer for every hundred feet, so that at a depth of 7,000 feet, or a mile and a half all the water you found would be boiling; and at a depth of about 10 miles, all the rocks would be melted.

Such is the state of the globe on which we live, dear children, and Scripture declares to us, that a day yet come when this earth will be burned up with fire. There is fire, as you have heard, within it ready to burst forth at any moment at God’s command.

“The heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth and the works that are therein shall he burned up.” 2 Peter 3:10.

Endless the sinner’s doom,

Darkness and dismal gloom;

Now, in God’s house there’s room,

Jesus will save.

Messages of God’s Love 5/28/1911

Desire for the Word of God

SOME time ago we heard of a native evangelist of East Africa, who, when he was still a boy, had great love for God’s word, and was drawn to the missionary who was stationed about 24 miles up stream. But the heathen parents of the boy took away his canoe from him, to prevent his going any more. What did the boy do? He swam across the river in spite of the numerous alligators, and travelled on the other side to the missionary station. ‘This he often did, for the great longing of his soul for God’s word, which told him of Jesus, the great Redeemer and Friend of lost sinners.

Does not the zeal of this poor heathen boy put some of our young readers to shame; perhaps some of you who profess to belong to the Lord? Do you love God’s word? Does not a little rain keep you at times from going to Sunday-school? And do not some go very unwilling to hear God’s word? What a treasure God’s word is. In it we find the way to God, and to eternal blessedness; in it we find light and salvation, wisdom, peace, comfort and strength. He who lightly esteems God’s word, lightly esteems God, who has given the word. He who hears God’s word and obeys it, hears God and obeys Him. Truly, blessed are they who hear God’s word and keep it!

Messages of God’s Love 5/28/1911

The Right Side

I HAVE a very pretty story to tell my readers of a little girl who loved the stars, and moon, and all that is in the sky, for she would say, “My heavenly Father made them all,” and would lie awake when in her little bed and look through the window at the beautiful sky and would thank God for His love in allowing His only Son to leave those beautiful heavens to come down and die for her upon the cross.

One day her Mamma was working upon some velvet, when little Nellie picked up a piece, and noticed that one side was soft and smooth, while the other was rough and hard, and being very much surprised, asked her Mamma how it could be. Her Mamma explained that nearly everything has a right and a wrong side, and that the wrong side is generally rougher and harder than the right.

The little girl thought over this a great deal, and when lying in her little bed, looking through the open window out to the beautiful sky, her Mamma came into the room. Nellie was quite overcome with the beautiful sky, but her thoughts were above it, as she said, “Oh! Mamma, if God made the wrong side of heaven so beautiful, what must the right side be like?” And is this not true, dear children?

We are not on the right side of heaven now, but when we get where Jesus is, all will be beautiful and fair and bright, for where Jesus is, there can be no sin, no more sorrow, no crying; then we will be on the right side with Him. The Bible says. “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither hath it entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him. But God hath revealed them unto us by His Spirit.” I Cor. 2:9, 10.

How happy to be among those on the right side of heaven in that great day when those who are ready will go in with the bridegroom and—the door will be shut, but how sad to be among those on the wrong side with the door shut between them and Jesus.

Oh! May none of my dear readers know the horrors of being left on the wrong side when Jesus comes.

Messages of God’s Love 5/28/1911

Bible Questions for June

Answers to Bible Questions for April

“And I answered,” etc. Acts 22:8.

“Also of your own selves,” etc “ 20:30.

“Then said Paul,” etc. “ 23:3.

“Because He hath,” etc. “ 17:31.

“And when he had,” etc. “ 20:36.

“Then Agrippa said,” etc. “ 26:28.

“And as he reasoned,” etc. “ 24:25.

Bible Questions for June

The answers are to be found in the first Epistle to the Corinthians.

Write the verse containing the words, “Mortal.” “Death.” “Victory.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Eat.” “Drink.” “Do.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Foolishness unto him.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Without charge.”

Write the verse containing the words, “What sort it is.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Raised.” “Vain.”

Write the verse containing the words, “God is faithful.”

Messages of God’s Love 5/28/1911

The World's Birthday

Chapter 3. Genesis 1:1.

The Heavens

THE chapter for this week is a glorious subject: we are to consider not only the heavens, and the “heaven of heavens” but something even greater than they are, their creation. We are to consider not only the splendor, the extent, the light, the motions, and the infinite spaces of the heavens—we have to think also of the mysterious time when all these beautiful and glorious bodies rose from nothing, when the eternal God called them into being by a single act of His all-powerful will. In the beginning Elohim (God) created the heavens. The Psalmist says “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament showeth forth His handy work. Day unto clay uttereth speech, and night unto night showeth knowledge. There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard.” Psalm 19:1, 2, 3. I shall first try to show you how their voice is heard; they speak to our eyes—they speak to Our understandings—they speak to our hearts. First they speak to our eyes with a beauty, a variety, a power, as wonderful as delightful. They tell us of the glory of the great God, they proclaim it to the most ignorant as well as to the most learned, to the pious shepherd when at the early dawn he opens the door of his mountain cottage, as well as to the astronomer who has passed the whole night beside his telescopes, and who has been watching with admiration and delight the course of the suns and distant worlds, as he sees them cross, with the speed of the eagle, the wonderful field of his magic glass.

Second, they speak to our understandings; they make known to us wonderful things—things too high and too wonderful for us to comprehend; they tell us of wisdom, grandeur, and infinite glory, in a language more forcible and expressive than any words. One day tells it to another, and night teaches it to each succeeding night.

Lastly, they speak to our hearts another language more eloquent and more powerful still. They say to us, O man! The Creator of all this glory is thy God; the God who desires to save thee. O man! hear the wonderful tidings. The only Son of God, the Eternal Word. This Word has become flesh; the Creator of heaven and earth, with a love greater even than His glory, came to live and die on this earth, that thy sins might be forgiven, and when He came to this world which He had made, He had no where to lay His head. Yes, my children, there is a voice in the heavens which is ever saying to us, “The Lord is here.” Each morning, each evening, each moment make known to us, His power and tell of His glory. “In the beginning Elohim (God) created the heavens and the earth.”

It must be remembered that as the word “Earth” has two meanings in the Bible, so the word “Heaven” has three meanings, or rather, Scripture mentions three heavens created by God. The first heaven is meant when it speaks of the “birds of the heaven,” the “clouds of heaven,” “the four winds of heaven.” This we call the atmosphere, but this is not all that is meant by the word in the first verse of Genesis. The atmosphere does not rise, to a greater height than forty or forty-five miles above the earth. Even at the top of some of the highest mountains, the air becomes so light, and there is so little of it that people can scarcely breath there; and forty miles higher, there is no air at all.

Yet, beyond this second heaven, God has created what the Apostle Paul calls the third heaven, (2 Cor. 12:2-4). Also called “heaven of heavens,” because this third heaven is as much beyond the starry heaven as the starry heaven is beyond our atmosphere. Solomon speaks of the heaven of heavens in his letter to Hiram, King of Tyre, about the building of the temple in Jerusalem, “But who is able to build Him an house, seeing the heaven, and heaven of heavens cannot contain him?” 2 Chron. 2:6. It is in this heaven of heavens that the glory is more especially manifested. It is there that the glorious angels stand around the throne of God, there will be the glorified saints in millions and millions.

Messages of God’s Love 6/4/1911

Great Debt; Great Love

O your gods love you?’’ asked a missionary of an Indian.

“The gods know nothing of love,” came the sad reply.

So the missionary read the 16th verse of the 3rd chapter of John’s Gospel “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.”

The poor heathen listened with open mouth. “Read it again,” he asked, and the missionary did so. “Our God ‘so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him, should not perish, but have everlasting life.’ “

“Once more!” cried the heathen, “please once more.”

“My God, your God ‘so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.”

“That is true! I feel it is!” cried the Indian. “That is great light. That is great love! It is true!” Can you say from the heart, dear reader, “The Son of God loved Me and gave Himself for me”?

It requires nothing but to believe. God has loved the world, but each one must apply it to himself. God loves me, Jesus gave Himself for me.

That will bring light into our souls, a light that will grow brighter each day.

Will you, then, thank the Lord for His great love?

Messages of God’s Love 6/4/1911

Contentment

WOULD you be contented, little reader, to have a meal as these children are doing,—with a wheel-barrow for chairs, no table, and only a bowl of soup apiece for food? Perhaps some of you would. Sometimes when very hungry, we are easily satisfied.

But some of you who always have all you want, might think it hard to have such a plain meal so poorly served. How many of you think, when eating, that God is the giver of all you have? To some of His children He gives very comfortable homes and plenty of good food. But with all this they may have troubles and sorrow of heart.

Others may have plainer homes and less to eat with very little sickness and loss of loved ones.

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.

The three children look contented with their bowls of soup, and seem to be enjoying them. And that is what the Lord would like to see in each one of us. Whether He gives us little or whether He gives us much, we should be very grateful to Him for what we have.

The glittering gems of earth are oft-denied,

That with our Lord we may be satisfied.

And yet He showers about us gifts untold,

For God knows when to give and when withhold.

We are much happier when satisfied with what we have than when we are continually wishing for this thing and that thing that God knows we are better off without. In Hebrews 13:5 He says, “BE CONTENT WITH SUCH THINGS AS YE HAVE.” This is an easy verse for you little ones to learn, and one that will make you happy if you act on it.

Messages of God’s Love 6/4/1911

Little Kathleen

BE YE kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” Eph. 4:32.

Have my little readers ever thought of the wonderful love of God in forgiving us all our sins for Jesus’ sake, and have you ever thought of how unlike our Lord it is to go on day after day in an unforgiving spirit towards anyone who may have done us an injury or has been unkind to us?

Think of what He has forgiven us!

Our little friend Kathleen loved the Lord Jesus and wished to please Him and to show the loving, forgiving spirit that He would like to see in a little Christian.

She came home, one day, to her mother with a beautiful bunch of grapes, and holding them up, said, “Look, mamma, see what a lady gave me!”

Her mother replied, “What lovely grapes, and such a lot of them.”

“O,” exclaimed little Kathleen, “she gave me more than this. I gave a lot away!”

Her mamma asked who she gave them to, and she said, “To a little girl who always pushes me off the pavement, and makes ugly faces at me.”

“Why did you give them to her?” asked her mamma.

“Because, I thought,” she said, “it would let her know I wished to be kind to her, then, perhaps, she will not be naughty and rude to me anymore.”

Wasn’t this a nice spirit to show, my dear children? She wanted the little girl to know that she would not “pay her back,” and whether the other girl stopped her unkindness or not, she knew the Lord Jesus would be pleased, for she was a little Christian.

Now, my dear reader, if you are washed from your sins in Jesus’ blood; you are a Christian, Christ’s little one.

He says, “Walk as children of light,” and let us ask Him for grace and strength to walk pleasing to Him.

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matt. 5:16.

Messages of God’s Love 6/4/1911

Thinking

As I look at our picture today, many thoughts come to my mind. Can you tell me, little reader, what those thoughts are?

You may guess at them, or at some of them, for the picture may bring similar thoughts to different minds. Perhaps the spinning wheel makes us all think of olden days when our grandmothers and great grandmothers made their own thread and yarn.

Perhaps the pile of logs in the fire place with the tea-kettle overhanging, suggests to many of us a bright, cheerful fire and a cup of hot tea. So, looking at the same picture we know something of each other’s thoughts.

But here is another question. What is the dear little girl in the picture thinking about? You may guess. I may guess. But we don’t know. She could tell us if she wished to, but we cannot find out in any other way. We cannot read each other’s thoughts. We may clock brings her nearer to eternity. And then—?

Have you ever closely watched an hour-glass, my dear reader? Have you ever turned it over, and watched the sand grains as they slowly glided one after the other through the glass tube? Have you seen how a little pyramid forms in the lower part of the glass, which becomes greater and greater, till you at last cry out, “Now, half of the time is up”? Softly, incessantly glides the sand. You cannot hasten or hinder its speed. With steady almost awesome regularity the grains find their way to the bottom of the glass. There is now only a small quantity remaining in the upper portion of the glass. With rivetted attention you watch it—one second more, and the last little grain falls to the bottom. The glass is run out—everything is over.

The dying woman says she is not afraid of death. Does she know that her hour-glass has been turned over? that the sand is running unceasingly, that each moment brings her nearer to her end? Those standing round watching her, regard her with horror—they know what the end is, of those who “obey not the gospel,” who despise the riches of the mercy of God. The day of wrath and of the revelation of the righteous judgment of God draws near, and she is hastening to meet it.

Everything that lies on the other side of this life is darkness to her. She clings eagerly to the fleeting moment of the present, for she is afraid to look into the future. She does not know, or does not wish to know that the number of sins, yea, blasphemies against God which she has committed, hang like a heavy chain about her neck, and drag her down deeper and deeper into the abyss below. Yes, my reader, into the abyss below It is no phantasm of the imagination; it is earnest dreadful truth! But the unhappy woman will heed no warning word; and yet God says that there is only one way of escape given; only one object that the never dying soul of man can cling to, to keep him from going into the pit of destruction. “I have found a ransom,” the spotless Lamb of God. (Comp. Job 33:24.)

God has revealed Himself in His word. But the poor woman says, she does not believe it, and the Bible is only a beautiful book, like many others.

Meanwhile the sand grains are running unceasingly, soon the last will fall and then —?

Ah, my dear reader, there is a Heaven where God dwells, and there is a Hell, where Satan and all the lost will some time find their place. How awful must it be to wake up too late! How fearful to open the eyes in the place where Mercy, Hope and Love are things which belonged to the past, and where it is no longer possible to be saved.

My dear reader, how does it stand with you? Your hour glass is turned up, mine also, and the sand is running! Will the last grain find you “Safe in the arms of Jesus,” or will it drive you forth to “a land of darkness and of the shadow of death?” Who can say, whether your hour-glass may not have only five minutes more to run? Are you ready?

“Lord, make me to know mine end, and the measure of my days, what it is; that I may know how frail I am.” Psalm 39:4.

Messages of God’s Love 6/11/1911

The Reward

AS YOU look at this little pony and cart, I expectr you can but wish that they belonged to you. What a good time these two must be having in their drive together!

I wonder if this larger boy spent his morning helping mother and was promised this drive with little brother if he was faithful? It is such a happy thing to help mother and others around us. You know it makes them glad to give boys and girls good times when they- are thus helpful. But even above what our parents and friends think of us, we want God’s approval of our doings, do we not? He has told us in His Word to bear one another’s burdens. So when we have work to do which may sometimes seem hard and distasteful to us, we must remember that even these things can be done in a happy spirit and as unto the Lord. He says: “WHATSOEVER YE DO, DO IT HEARTILY, AS TO THE LORD, AND NOT UNTO MEN.” Col. 3:23.

What a sad thing, though for the boy or girl who does not know Jesus. Such have never been to Him for the forgiveness of their sins, and so cannot have the joy in their hearts of knowing that they please Him in their work and play.11How is it with you, reader, are you a stranger to Jesus? If so, remember, it is impossible for you to do anything that is pleasing to Him. What a solemn thought! It makes no difference how many good things in the sight of ‘men you may do, if you are not a saved soul, all your good deeds are but “filthy rags” before God. You must bow your knee to Jesus, His Son, before you are the least acceptable in His sight. When you do this, God will give His Spirit to dwell in you to lead you and enable you to live a life pleasing to Him.

“So then they that are in the flesh cannot please God. But ye are not in the flesh, but in the Spirit, if so be that the Spirit of God dwell in you.” Rom. S:8, 9.

Messages of God’s Love 6/18/1911

Happy in the Poor House?

WHEN you read the title of this little story, my dear reader you may perhaps think, “Happy in the poorhouse? That is not quite the place where one would expect happiness and joy.”

Perhaps not, but what I am about to tell you is literally true, and I have written it down in the hope that it may be of use to one another, who till now have not known that peace and joy which no circumstances can disturb, and may lead them to seek the personal knowledge of the One who is not only able, but willing to give that peace and joy to all who come to Him.

It was a lovely day in harvest, and the bright, kindly rays of sunshine formed a marked contrast to the spectacle which awaited me in the sick ward of the poor house at S———-.

Two long rows of beds filled the ward, and from each a pale face often bearing the traces of pain, met the glance of the visitor.

All the occupants of these beds knew from experience what pain and need meant, and many, if not the most of them, were alone in the world, and no acquaintance troubled about them; no friend spoke a word of consolation or encouragement to them in their suffering.

As I walked along the row of beds my eye fell on a man, who could not have been long in the place, for I had not seen him on any of my former visits.

I stepped up to his bed, and handed him a little book, which he accepted thankfully. To my question of what ailed him, he told me that he was for the present suffering greatly, but that he was hoping to get better. He was the son of a poor widow, and he had been brought to the poor house, because he could not bear the noise at home. His mother gained her livelihood by keeping boarders. In the course of the conversation, he told me that the time seemed very long, and that he longed for the day when he would get out of the hospital, and resume his work again.

While he was speaking, I cast a glance at the card hanging up at the top of his bed, on which his name and his disease were written down. He was called Henry Martin, and the short notice which stood under the name, made me fear that the hope of the poor man for a rapid recovery would not be fulfilled. I looked to the Lord to give me a suitable word for him, and then asked him if he could read.

“Yes,” he replied, “I can read, hut get tired quickly.”

“Then you have plenty of time for thinking, haven’t you? Perhaps more than you want.”

“Yes, that’s just what makes the time appear so long.”

“Have you then ever thought,” said I again, “that you are on the way to eternity, and how many sins are necessary, to shut you out of heaven forever?”

He looked at me astonished. Such a question he evidently did not expect. After a little pause, he replied slowly, “No, I have never yet been occupied with that question; but I think that one sin would be enough. Is that not so?”

“Certainly,” said I; “for God tells us that in the heavenly Jerusalem, nothing can enter that is unclean or defiled, and you can surely remember in your past life more than one sin.”

“Oh, yes,” came with hesitation from his lips, “I cannot really remember having done anybody any harm; but I must say I have sinned many times.”

“I am glad to hear this confession from you,” I said. “But if death came to you now, would you like to die as you are?”

“No, I would not,” he answered thoughtfully.

“Now, then,” I continued, “death can come sooner than you may think. Is it not unreasonable then to live longer in a way which allows you to think of death only with fear?”

“Yes, I believe you are right,” he said, “but I have never in my life thought about these things. I am a plain, unlearned man, and never had anybody speak to me in such a way. I don’t know what to do to be able to think of death without fear.”

Thereupon I endeavored to present to him God’s plan of salvation as simply as possible. I told him what God had done to blot out our sins; that He had sent His only begotten Son into the world, to prepare the way into heaven for us. I read to him the fifth verse of Isaiah 53, “But 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.”

I left him then, promising to visit him soon again. On my, next visit I directed the conversation tai the subject of our previous talk, and asked him “Have you been thinking over what we were speaking about together on my last visit?”

“Yes,” he replied, “that I have, and 1 would really like to know that my sins are forgiven, but I don’t know for certain. I understand little of these things, but perhaps you can help me.”

“I will read to you what God says about it,” I answered, “for I am only a man who can err. I can say one thing to you today, but someone may come along tomorrow, and say the very opposite. If we have the word of God, no doubt or mistake is possible.” I then drew out my testament. I read him Luke 15. The sick man listened with rivetted attention. When the chapter was read through, I added a few words of explanation and tried to make clear to the mind of the listener, how the poor lost sinner is promised a welcome, if he only comes as a sinner and seeks pardon, which the Father is so eager to give.

“But how can I know, that God will have me?” he cried.

“Because the Saviour says, ‘Him that cometh to Me, I will in no wise cast out’“ (John 6:37).

The sick man regarded me with such an eager, questio4ng look, that I continued; “You know, do you not, what it is in natural things to come and ask for what things we need? If a child has need of something which its mother can supply, it goes simply to the mother and asks for it. Will you not also do the same? Will you promise me, that tonight, before you fall asleep, you will go to God, just as simply as a child goes to its mother? God is near to all who call upon Him. He hears every sigh and understands every thought from afar.”

After some thought, the sick man said, “Yes, I promise you.”

“Then, good bye! Do not forget that Jesus has promised, ‘Him that cometh to Me, I will in no wise cast out.’ “

Two days later, I stood again by Martin’s bed. “How are you today?” I asked.

To my question he answered eagerly: “Oh, better, much better! But it is not the doctor’s medicine that has done me good, but I am better because I am so happy. I went to God and asked Him to wash me clean from all my sins, and He did not send me away. Now, I have no fear whatever of death.”

The bright, peaceful expression of his face, spoke louder than his words could. There was no doubt; the anxiety of his soul had vanished, to make place for a deep settled peace.

My dear reader! would you be able to say, if you found yourself in the same situation as Martin was: “I am not afraid of death”? If not, then I would like to ask you the same question as I put to Martin: “Is it not unreasonable, then, to live longer in a way which allows you to think of death only with fear?” Reflect well on what God’s word says, “It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment,” which means—if you die as you are, in your sins, then you will stand before the Great White Throne, an unsaved sinner and will be judged according to your works. (Rev. 20:12).

Martin did not recover, as I feared from the beginning. He lived indeed many months, but gradually grew weaker. But his joy in Christ on the other hand, seemed to grow stronger every day.

One afternoon he said to me: “God bless you for all you have said to me about my dear Saviour! When I saw you the first time I complained that the time appeared so long; but now I am so happy that I scarcely know how the time goes; the days fly so fast. Though I find myself in the poor house, I could not be happier than I am here, and soon I shall be forever with my Saviour.”

And so it happened. Soon after, his happy spirit took its departure from the sick ward of the poor house, to be forever with the Lord, who loved him, and who washed him clean from all his sins in His precious blood.

Messages of God’s Love 6/18/1911

The Answered Prayer

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, lie 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.”

Messages of God’s Love 6/18/1911

Confidence

LET us call the dog in our picture, Rover, and imagine him lying on his master’s porch. See how he looks up at us, so friendly and as though he has the greatest of confidence in us!

Do you think Rover would look so trustful and contented if he saw a tramp or robber attempting to molest his master’s house? Indeed, I am sure he would not. Nor would we see him quietly leaning on his paws, but quite otherwise, would find him up and ready to prevent any evil.

How many lessons can you see ha this for us? I see two. First, how happy it makes us feel to have our friends, dear ones, yes, and even the animals about us show confidence in us. how pleasing then it must be to the Lord Jesus for us to put our entire confidence in Him, and look to Him in full trust as our Saviour and Friend.

Then if you know Him as your Saviour, are you going to be careless and allow evil and wrong in your life? It may seem that some of the things you do are very little things and not very bad:- It is so much easier to go the same way, and do the same things other boys and girls do. It may be you allow yourself to say quick, angry words, think hard thoughts, or speak in a disrespectful manner to your parents. Jesus looks at each of these as Sin. It is only as we overcome these wicked things that our lives will show that we love Jesus, and that We really want to follow Him.

So let us put our confidence in the Lord, and, secondly, ask Him to enable us to avoid evil, and to overcome those wrong- things that make our lives unfruitful to Him.

“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.” Prov. 4:14, 15.

Messages of God’s Love 6/25/1911

Suddenly; A Word for Young Men

Part 1

IN a pleasant evening in July, I walked, according to custom, to a Bible class, conducted within the rooms of a “Young Men’s Christian Association.” As I walked to the room, that beautiful Lord’s Day evening, the brightness of the scene responded fitly to the radiance which filled my soul. The deadly darkness which had once reigned there had been chased away by the reviving beams of the light of life. The same God, which commanded the light to shine out of darkness, had shined in my heart to give the light of the knowledge of His glory in the face of Jesus Christ. Thai Christ I now could claim as my Saviour who had, by His cross, met all my condition as a lost sinner, and in resurrection had become my present life, joy and hope. Oh, how my heart longed to communicate this blessedness to others!

There was a young man named S-- who regularly attended this class. He spoke occasionally, but was naturally reserved. There was something, however, about him which attracted me, and, although he was what might be called not very demonstrative, there was in his whole demeanor that which caused me to think he was one of the redeemed.

That night I purposed to test him by telling him what great things the Lord had done for me. The meeting was in a cool somber looking room on the shady side of the way, and contained little more than a few long seats, a table, desk, and chair upon which the dear old saint, who usually presided, was wont to sit, Through the windows, which were some yards back from the street, could be seen the gay crowd passing along, some returning decently from evening service, but most strolling carelessly to see and be seen. The class concluded, I drew S— to one of these windows, saying I wished to talk with him. We were soon left by ourselves in the room, then placing my hand on his shoulder, and looking him full in the face, I said, “Rejoice with me, my brother, for I have found the Lord.”

A flush covered his expressive face, an inquiring look filled his eyes, and then, after a pause, he replied, “I am very glad to hear you say so.” He seemed embarrassed, there was a deep working within his breast, and then, with much emotion, he exclaimed, “I am seeking Him, too.” “Oh,” I cried, “but I have found Him, or rather He has found me.” There followed a profitable conversation, the details of which have now escaped my recollection.

He was a fair specimen of a troubled soul quickened by the Spirit, conscious of his guilt, and trusting in Jesus, but not with that simplicity of faith which brings immediate rest to the conscience. He required to be established in grace. Dear S— so soon to be plucked from earth, severed in a moment from all below!

Reader, are you a waverer, are you only partly believing in the Lord Jesus Christ? Indecision is the bane of a Christian, and “a double-minded man is unstable in all his ways.” Oh, behold! how that, once for all,’ Christ has surrendered Himself to death for you. Can you forbear surrendering yourself wholly to Him? Henceforth let your motto be, For me to live is Christ... Shine as a light in the darkness. Be true to Jesus now, for the coming Lord may soon arrive to gather His ransomed ones home.

Part 2

The next year a severe hurricane raged, causing grievous loss of life, painful accidents,- and destruction to property.

In a quiet office in the city of—-, on the afternoon of this day, sat three clerks. S— had returned from dinner, and, to some inquiries put by the others as to the effect of the storm, replied that he had witnessed nothing extraordinary, or to cause alarm. This was the last remark uttered by these lips, so soon to be closed for ever. The other young man expressed himself as being much amused at the freaks of the wind, and gave some details of the damage he had seen. The senior clerk sat at a desk apart. He was a man respected by many, and a tried faithful servant; but, alas! sceptical about the Scriptures and God’s beloved Son. During that day he betrayed much disquietude. As the storm increased, so also did the nervousness which he evidently strove to conceal. At length, an alarming gust of wind swept down the chimney, extinguishing the fire and filling the room with a cloud of smoke. The sceptic jumped from his stool, exclaiming, “Good God! what is that:- A moment later, and the exposed gable of the house, against which the tempest had been heating with increasing fury, fell with a dismal crash, carrying all before it, burying several human beings tinder its ruin, and launching four of them into eternity.

Of the three clerks one only escaped. He, like the messenger to Job, could say. “I only am escaped alone to tell thee.- S—and his senior fell, pen in hand, a feeble moan alone coming from the latter. There, side by side, lay the lifeless bodies of the Christian and the sceptic. The believer’s soul, happy with the Lord, whom in truth he loved, as both his life and letters proved; the other hurled into eternity, to learn and prove the awful reality of that which he dismissed and derided here. As the tree falls, so shall it lie.

Oh, careless young man, take warning! Beware of the old serpent, who would fain beguile you to make a mock of sin, to question God’s truth, and seduce you downward to perdition. Turn, now, at Wisdom’s reproof._ For “He, that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.” Oh, sinner, think of the uncared-for Jesus, the Nazarene, the crucified. By faith have to do with that risen Saviour who, on the cross alone, bore God’s judgment against sin. “For to Him give all the prophets witness, that through His name whosoever believeth in Him shall receive remission of sins, and “whosoever believeth in Him shall not be ashamed.”

Jesus Himself also said “Whosoever, therefore, shall be ashamed of Me and of My words, in this adulterous and sinful generation, of him also shall the Son of Man be ashamed, when He cometh in the glory of His Father with the holy angels.- “He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.”

Messages of God’s Love 6/25/1911

The World's Birthday

Chapter 4. Gen. 1:24.

The work of the First Day

IN the wonderful story which follows in this chapter, we hear no more of all the far distant worlds of which I spoke to you in the last lesson. Of all the suns and planets, clusters of stars which are studded over the immensity of the heavens, why should any more be told about them? The object of this paper is not to teach us astronomy, or to maize known to us the history of the angels. No; It is written to tell us of the great work of Grace—of the redemption of lost sinners, on this small but glorious earth, of the everlasting reign of our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, after merely noticing the creation of all the universe by God, we are recalled at once in the second verse of Genesis, to the history of our earth alone, and we are told it was in a state of darkness and confusion it was plunged, before it was made by the six days’ work into a fit habitation for man. Some learned men have thought that the earth was created la the condition as described in our second verse; “And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. But if we turn to Isaiah 45:18, we see that God did not create it in vain, or void) He formed it to be inhabited. So that Moses, in writing the second verse, was describing an after condition. Flow it came to be so, after it came perfect from the hand of God, we are not told. Surely the angels would never have rejoiced as they did, if the earth had been created void and in darkness, but we read in Job: “Where wast thou when I laid the foundations of the earth?” “When the morning stars sang together, and all the sons of God shouted for joy?” Job 38:4, 7.

We see, therefore, that according to the scriptural account of the creation, we must suppose that between the first verse and the second, a long time passed—how long, we cannot tell.

Let us now go on to speak, not of the creation of the earth, but of its new formation, or of the great six days’ work. The earth was without form and void. In other words, the earth was then in disorder and solitude, that is, there were no distinct objects. There were no men, no animals, no birds, no fishes, no reptiles, nor even the smallest insect; no trees, no plants, no fresh green grass, no dry land, no seas, no air, no ligh t— “darkness was upon the face of the deep.” This yet unformed earth, so void and desolate had an abyss of waters all around it, and besides this mass of waters with which it was entirely covered, it was wrapped in a cloud of deepest darkness. There was no light at all, not even the feeble glimmer which we now see on our darkest nights.

We are told in the 28th Chapter of Job and 5th verse that fire is under the earth. This leads us to a very remarkable fact, which at first may appear impossible—that fire and water have united to form the crust of our earth. What two things could agree worse than fire and water Nevertheless this is true. Learned men have discovered this to their own surprise by studying carefully the mountains and crust of the earth. The greater number of our high mountains have been forced upwards by the fire upheaving the rocks as it burst from the burning depths within. Well, you see, in the second verse of Genesis, that such was really the state of the earth—water over and around the fire. This is clearly the case at that time of chaos. And you may also read in the second Epistle of Peter these two facts: first, that the earth has been drawn out of the water, and that it subsists among the waters!

Secondly, that this same earth will one (lay be destroyed by fire (2nd Peter 3 5, 7). You will hear afterwards, in the explanation which is to follow, of the first events in the history of this world’s creation, that many tunes since the first day, these depths of water under which the lire burns, have again and again burst forth, raised up by the force of the fire, and have overflowed various parts of the world.

Messages of God’s Love 6/25/1911

Bible Questions for July

Answers to Bible Questions for May

“Therefore being,” etc. Rom. 5:1.

“Therefore if thine,” etc. “ 12:20.

“For I am not ashamed,” etc. “ 1:16.

“But whj, Bost thou,” etc. “ 14:10

“Saying, blessed are they.” etc. “ 4:7.

“But God commendeth,- etc. “ 5:8

“Now l beseech you,- etc. “ 15:30

Bible Questions for July

The answers are to be found in the Second Epistle to the Corinthians.

Write the verse containing the words, “God of all comfort.”

Write the verse containing the words, “The judgment seat.”

Write the verse containing the words, ,”Glory in the Lord”.

Write the verse containing the words. “Present with the Lord”.

Write the verse containing the words, “Cleanse ourselves”.

Write the verse containing the words, “Image of God”.

Write the verse containing the words, “Jesus Christ”. “God”. Holy Ghost”.

Messages of God’s Love 7/2/1911

The World's Birthday

Chapter 4. Part 2.
Genesis 1:2-5.

The Work of the First Day

But let us go on with our subject. In order to furnish the explanation of our four verses, I must try to answer these for questions:

First, what is meant by these words. “The Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters”?

Second, what are we to think of the light which God caused to appear on the first day? . “God said let there he light and there was light.”

Third, what are we to think about the sun?

Fourth, what are we to think about the evening and the morning of the first day? ‘‘The evening and the morning were the first day.”

To the first question 1 answer: The Spirit of God which moved upon the face of the waters, was the Holy Spirit, whose existence is thus made known to us in the very beginning of God’s word. He moved upon the scene of IUs future actions, a dark scene truly, a scene in which God only could bring light and life.

Let us go on to the third verse,” God said let there be light: and there was light.” God had only to say, “Let there be light,” and light “shone out of darkness,” as the Apostle says in 2 Cor. 4:6. “And God. saw the light, that it was good.” Before entering upon this subject, which is the answer to our second question, we must first try to answer the third. What are we to think of the sun (luring the first three days? Did the sun exist before God created the light on the first day? Or did it not then exist? We must suppose it did exist, because it is part of those heavens which God created “In the beginning.” It was then, as now. a very powerful magnate 1,300,000 times larger than our earth, which. was probably turning round him as it does now, hut turning in darkness, for all was yet dark. The sun was like an immense lamp, unlighted. It was lighted up on the fourth day, and the moon was lighted up by reflection from it. They then became “lights” (verse 14). But you may want to know (and this brings us to our second question) whence came the light at first, if the sun were then only a dark globe? God can give light without the sun, and we must suppose that during the first three days He had caused the light to come from other sources.

Now, as to the fourth question on the subject of the fifth verse, What are we to think of “the evening -and the morning were the first day”?. How long did the “evening” last, and was this “day” a day of twenty-four hours in length,? This is a question that is much disputed and we have no positive scriptural statement as to the length of these days. Yet I believe that inasmuch as God was making this earth habitable for man, He chose this manner of marking time for His creatures, and afterwards when He gave his holy law He said, “Six days shalt thou labor and do all thy work, but the seventh is the rest of the Lord. In it thou shalt do no labor.” I see no reason to believe. as some, that these days were long periods of time.

Messages of God’s Love 7/2/1911

Warranted to Remove All Stains

As I opened my door one morning, I found on the steps a handbill advertising a wondrous preparation for the removal of all stains in cloth — “sure to do it—never known to fail.” I read it, and thought of other stains more foul—stains that had struck into the textures of life, and left a sorry mark upon soul and character—guilty stains. Who is without some of these?

O, what effort is made to keep them out of sight—cover them up—washing “with nitre!” But the spots stick; they will not come out. Much management may keep them out of others’ sight, so that the garment of life is made to look tolerably respectable; but, alas! they glare out, and bring discomfort and terror. One’s very effort to conceal them often makes them the more prominent, and directs attention to them.

Now, what a sale might be made of some mixture that would “take out the stains of sin.” What a market it would find!

Is there anything that will do it?

Yes, a fountain, and—

“Sinners plunged beneath that flood Lose all their guilty. stains.”

Is it near?

Yes, close at hand; always accessible.

Is it costly?

“Without money and without price.” None so poor hut may wash here and be clean.

Where is it? What is it?

“THE BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST. His Son, cleanseth us from all sin.” Dear reader, will you try it? If you try it, you will find to your joyful satisfaction that it will just meet your need—the very thing you want.

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

Wont you come to that fountain? Come now, and you will sing, “Happy day, when Jesus washed my sins away!”

Messages of God’s Love 7/2/1911

Feeding the Farm Yard Chickens

HERE in our picture we see a very common and yet a very pretty sight. How natural this woman looks as she stands there feeding her chickens! I am sure each one of you has, in the same way, scattered bits of food to the chickens, as you called them around you either in your own, or in some farm yard when you were visiting in the country.

Now as you look at this picture, does it make you think of the One who really has provided the food? This woman can give only what He has given her. Who can that One be? Surely it is God, who has given so many good things for His creatures down here to enjoy. He not only provides food and shelter for the chickens, but just think of the birds, animals and other tiny creatures that He has made, and how wonderfully He provides and cares for all! Does this care, then, not include you and me? Jesus tells us in the twelfth chapter of Luke of His care for the ravens: if He watches over the birds, such tiny creatures, He surely watches over us and His care for us is far greater. He says, “Consider the ravens: for they neither sow nor reap: which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls?”

In God’s Word we also read that. “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above.” Of all these good gifts, what is the greatest one that God has ever given us? I am sure you all agree that it was the gift of His only Son, Jesus, to come down to this world to die on the cross for us. What a Great Giver God is! and how dependent we are upon Him; not only for our food and daily needs, but above all for our eternal welfare.

The gift has been given and now it is for you to accept it. There is no real peace for your soul until you do know Jesus, God’s greatest gift, as your own personal Saviour.

“HE THAT SPARED NOT HIS OWN SON, BUT DELIVERED HIM UP FOR US ALL, HOW SHALL HE NOT WITH HIM ALSO FREELY GIVE US ALL THINGS?” Rom. 8:32.

Messages of God’s Love 7/2/1911

Freddie's Sermon

Freddie was a very small boy; his father was a minister, and used to tell people about Jesus, how He came down from heaven to this sinful world to die in the sinner’s place.

Freddie had often heard his father preach, and one day he looked up earnestly at him, and said, “Fweddie wants to peach.” His father answered, “Freddie is too young to preach.” But Freddie could not rest, and the whole week he kept on saying, “Fweddie wants to peach.”

When Sunday came, his father, thinking that it would quiet him, said, “You may come up into the pulpit with me if you sit very still.” But even this did not satisfy Freddie, for he still said. “Fweddie wants to peach.” So the father stood up and told the congregation that his little boy had been worrying him all week because he wanted to preach. Then he lifted Freddie up so that he could see the people. At first Freddie felt frightened at seeing so many faces, but he said slowly, “Fweddie wants to tell you Fweddie loves Jesus.”

That was Freddie’s sermon; only a few words, but it went home to the heart of one old man who was over seventy years of age. He was quite broken down at the thought of a little child loving Jesus when he did not, and this was the means of his being brought to know Jesus as his Saviour, and to love Him.

About six weeks after, little Freddie was taken ill, and the Lord took him to be with Himself. While walking in the church yard one day, someone saw the old man sobbing bitterly over a little grave, and said to him, “I fear you have lost a dear friend.” “Yes,” he answered, “I have lost my dear minister.” “But,” said the other, “that is a child’s grave”. “I know”, he said, “but he was my minister.”

Dear children who read this true store, if you know and love Jesus, you too, may be little ministers. I do not mean that you may speak to large congregations from a pulpit, but you may tell your friends of the Saviour you love, and von may be the means of bringing them to know and love Him too.

Messages of God’s Love 7/2/1911

Preparing a Feast

TODAY we have a peep into the kitchen of what seems to be a log house. It is a simple, home-like looking place. And as the sweet-faced girl stands there with her cups, spoons, kettles, and bowls preparing something good for the meal, we can imagine it is a happy little home.

We are reminded of a verse in the 15th of Proverbs, verse 17. “Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith.” Often we find happier, more contented people in places like this, gathered around a very plain meal, than in the mansions of the wealthy with their bountiful feasts.

Just before the verse quoted above is another. “BETTER IS LITTLE WITH THE FEAR OF THE LORD, THAN GREAT TREASURE AND TROUBLE THEREWITH.” Prov. 15:16. Many, when wishing for more of this world’s goods do not realize that with increased riches come increased cares. And not only that, but the heart becomes occupied with the worldly possessions and the fear of the Lord is forgotten.

The Lord allow each one of us just as much as is good for us, and we will be far happier if we content ourselves with just what we have, rejoicing that we know the Lord and knowing that having Him we have ALL. We can feast continually on Him and be satisfied. Earthly possessions give no more than momentary satisfaction and often not that.

Messages of God’s Love 7/9/1911

Is Jesus Christ a Saviour, the Saviour, or My Saviour, Which?

“A”—”THE”—”MY.” Three words, short; each very different in meaning.

“A” is the indefinite article, very indefinite indeed.

A SAVIOUR, but not mine—not for me. For someone else; whose, I know not.

“THE” is the definite article.

THE SAVIOUR, that is, the only one—not any other; no other helper or refuge; only one.
“MY” is a personal pronoun.

MY SAVIOUR, appropriated by me, has saved me.

CHRIST as A Saviour shows the need.

CHRIST as THE Saviour shows there is but one.

CHRIST as MY Saviour shows that He is mine.

Is He yours?

Messages of God’s Love 7/9/1911

The General's Story; a Boy's Sacrifice

IT was during my service in India that I had in my, regiment a little bugler. I had often. noticed him as being too fragile and delicate for the life he had to lead; but he was born in the regiment, and we were bound to make the best of him. His father, as brave a man as ever lived, had been killed in action, and his mother had just drooped and died six months later.

She was the daughter of a God-fearing mother, a delicate, refined-looking creature, and had brought up the boy strictly, according to her light. In spite of her chapel-going propensities, she was generally liked and respected, and the boy was her image; but, as he liked better going to prayer-meetings with her than joining in the horseplay of the other boys, he was not popular, and suffered from many a coarse taunt and mocking gibe, which made his life almost a misery to him, after his mother

About two years later, when -Willie Holt was fourteen years .old, the regiment was bivouacking some miles from camp for rifle practice. I had intended leaving the lad behind, thinking him to delicate for such work—the ground was swampy and unhealthy—but my sergeant-major begged hard to “take him along.”

“There is mischief in the air, Colonel, he said; “and, rough as they treat the lad—and they do lead him a life—his pluck and patience tells on ‘em, for the boy is a saint, sir; he is, indeed.”

I had a rough lot of recruits just then, and before we had been out a fortnight, several acts of insubordination had been brought to my notice, and I had sworn to make an example of the very next offense, by

Having the Culprit Flogged.

One morning it was reported to me that, during the night, the butts, or targets had been thrown down and otherwise mutilated, and the usual practice could not take place. This was serious, indeed, and on investigation, the rascally act was traced to a man or men in the very tent where Willie Holt was billeted, two of them being the worst characters in the regiment. The whole lot were instantly put under arrest to he tried by court-martial, when enough evidence was produced to prove conclusively that one or more of the prisoners were guilty of the crime. In vain were they appealed to produce the men, and at last I spoke:—

“We have all heard the evidence that proves the perpetrator of last night’s dastardly act to be one of the men before us,”—then turning to the prisoners I added:

“If any one of you who slept in No. 4 tent last night will come forward and take his punishment like a man, the rest will get off free; but if not, there remains no alternative but to punish you all, each man in turn to receive ten strokes of the cat.”

For the space of a couple of minutes dead silence followed; then, from the midst of the prisoners, where his slight form had been completely hidden, Willie Holt came forward.

He advanced to within a couple of yards from where I sat, his face was very pale, a fixed intensity of purpose stamped on every line of it, and his steadfast, shining eyes met mine, clear and full.

“Colonel,” said he, “you have passed your word that if any one of those who slept in No. 4 tent last night comes forward to take his punishment, the rest shall get off free. I am ready, sir, and please may I take it now.

For a moment I was speechless, so utterly was I taken by surprise; then, in a fury of anger and disgust, turned upon the prisoners:

“Is there no man among you worthy of the name? Are you all cowards enough to let this lad suffer for your sins: for that he is guiltless you know as well as I.” But sullen and silent they stood, with never a word.

Then I turned to the boy, whose patient pleading eyes were fixed on my face. and never in all my life have I found myself so painfully situated. I knew my word must stand, and the lad knew it too, as he repeated once more: “I am ready, sir.”

Sick at heart, I gave the order, and he was led away for punishment.

Bravely he stood, with back bared, as I me—two—three strokes descended. At the fourth a faint moan escaped his white lips, but ere the fifth fell a hoarse cry burst from the group of prisoners who had been forced to witness the scene, and with one bound, Jim Sykes, the black sheep of the regiment, seized the cat as with choking, gasping utterance he shouted:

“Stop it, Colonel, stop it, and tie me up instead. He never did it, but I did,” and with convulsed and anguished face he flung his arms round the boy.

Fainting and almost speechless, Willie lifted his eves to the man’s face and smiled such a smile—”No, Jim,” he whispered, “you are safe now; the Colonel’s word will stand.” His head fell forward—he had fainted.

The next day as I was making for the hospital-tent where the boy lay, I met the doctor. “How is the lad?” I asked. “Sinking, Colonel,” he said, quietly. “What!” I ejaculated, horrified and startled past words.

“Yes, the shock of yesterday was too much for his feeble strength. l have known for some months it was only a question of time,” he added; “this affair has only hastened matters”—then gruffly —”he is more fit for heaven than earth:” and with a suspicious moisture in his kind old eyes, he stood aside while I passed into the tent.

The dying lad lay propped up on the pillows, and half kneeling, half crouching at his side, was Jim Sykes. The change in the boy’s face startled me; it was deathly white, but his great eyes were shining with a Wonderful Light. Strangely sweet. The kneeling man lifted his head, and I saw the drops of sweat standing on his brow as he muttered brokenly:

“Why did ye do it, lad: Why did ye do it?”

“Because I wanted to take it for you, Jim,” Willie’s weak voice answered tenderly. “I thought if I did it might help you to understand a little bit why Christ died for you.”

“Why Christ died for me?” the man repeated listlessly.

“Yes, He died for you because He loved you, as I do, Jim; only Christ loves you much more. I only suffered for one sin, but Christ took the punishment of all the sins you have ever committed. The punishment of all your sins was death, Jim, and Christ died for you.”

“Christ has naught to do with such as me, lad; I am one of the bad ‘uns, you ought to know that.”

“But He died to save the bad ones, just them. He says: ‘I came not to call the. righteous, but sinners.’ Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.’

Dear Jim,” the earnest voice pleaded passionately, “shall the Lord have died in vain?

Listen; He is calling you. He has poured out His precious life-blood for you. He is knocking at the door of your heart. Won’t you let Him in? Oh I you must; and then we shall meet again.”

The poor dying boy’s voice failed him, and in a few moments he was gone.

Dear reader, need I add anything to this little story? Do you not see in it a wonderful illustration of what Christ has done?

“He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities. . . With His stripes we are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” Isa. 53:5, 6.

When the awful stroke of judgment descended upon Him none came forward to plead His cause. He was there alone upon the cross, all the powers of earth and hell were arrayed against Him, and the wrath of God too. The hatred of man, whose sin He was bearing, was fully vented upon Him, yet He died to prove His love to man, and the love of God too (see John 3:16, 17). He “once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God” (see 1 Peter 3:18).

Oh, dear unsaved reader, is it nothing to you that He has suffered and died in your stead? Is it nothing to you that He laid down His life and shed His precious blood? If you believe on Him who offered Himself by the Eternal Spirit without spot to God (Heb. 9:4), you will be forever freed from the judgment due to your sins, and will pass from death unto life (John 5:24). No charge can be brought against those who rest on the work He accomplished at Calvary, where He so infinitely glorified God. All has been met by His precious blood which cleanses from all sin ( John 1:7). As the officer’s word stood, so will God’s word stand.

“When I see the blood. I will pass over you.” Exod. 12:13.

I leave, you, dear reader, to ponder over this touching story and what it illustrates, and may it lead you to say like the apostle of old. “He loved me, and gave Himself for me.” (Gal. 2:20)

Messages of God’s Love 7/9/1911

Are You Still Unsaved?

O straight to Christ, just as you are in your sins. He is the Saviour for sinners; He washes us from our sins. No one else does or can do this. No one receives His salvation save from Christ Jesus, Himself. Why spend your life in vainly trying to wash away your own sins, when He is waiting to save and to cleanse you? Go straight to Him. Do not seek to improve yourself: you need salvation—not improvement. “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Tim. 1:15.

Messages of God’s Love 7/9/1911

A Perilous Journey

HERE is a ship—a ship now in existence. But today we are to hear about a ship that sailed the seas over eighteen hundred years ago—one worn out and broken to pieces hundreds of years before you or I knew anything about ships.

The ship in the, picture is perhaps sailing somewhere on the ocean at this very moment—while you are reading about it. It is the “Yacht Thistle,” owned by Robert E. Tod. Most people will never hear or know anything about it.

But the other ship took a voyage that will never be forgotten. The story has been read by one generation after another all these eighteen hundred years.

In the year 62 A. D. this ship sailed from Alexandria, a city in Egypt. She was bound for Italy and stopped at Myra. a city of Lycia, in Asia Minor. Here she took on passengers from another boat that had sailed some time before from Caesarea, a city of Palestine the Mediterranean shore.

These new passengers consisted of a company of prisoners, and the centurion and soldiers who had charge of them. The prisoners were being taken to Rome. Many of you know by this time without being told, that one prisoner in the company, was the apostle Paul.

In those days they did not have great, powerful steamships such as we have now. They had to depend on sails and oars. On this journey the winds were strong, and the ship went very slowly, taking man); days to go a short distance over to the Island of Crete. The ship: men wanted to go on to a better haven (for the winter) than the place they had already reached. But Paul told them that to go on would be with great-danger, both to the ship and to their lives. However, Paul’s advice was not taken and they started off again.

It was not long till a very strong wind arose and the men had to let the ship go just ,where the wind took ‘her. Instead of reaching- the harbor they sought, they were carried far out to sea’ and were tossed about, they knew not where, for many days.

During this storm they had gone fourteen days without eating. After this long fast, Paul, knowing God’s care over them, assured them that they would be safe. Then “he took bread and gave thanks to God in presence of them all.” Acts 27-35. He ate some and encouraged the others to do the same, after which they felt better and more cheerful.

Finally they were driven near . some country and the ship stuck fast in the ground. The waves heating against her soon broke her to pieces. The men who could swim jumped into the water and got to land that way. The others floated to land on boards and broken pieces of the ship.

Why was it that the ship was kept from sinking—all through that long, stormy voyage?

Because there was still a great work to be done by the apostle Paul. When the winter was over, he was taken on to Rome, and there he lived for two years, telling many people the way of salvation and teaching them more about the Lord Jesus. It was at this time that Paul wrote some of the beautiful, precious epistles that we read and enjoy so much now when we open our Bibles.

It was God’s will that Paul should reach Rome, and He carried him safely through all the storms.

Dear reader, in our journey through life we encounter many perils of various kinds, and we often tremble with fear. But the Lord is just as able to take care of us as He was to take care of Paul. I f you love Him there is a work for you to do for Him, and He will not allow anything to interfere with the work He has laid out for you. He may not keep you out of the storms, but He will go with you through them.

He does not want us to be afraid. He wants us to trust Him to keep us both from harm and from sin. If we are in trouble, we should not be overwhelmed by it, but trust Him to take us safely through it.

“The Lord God is a sun and shield: the Lord will give grace and glory: no good thing will he Withhold from them that walk uprightly.• 0 LORD OF HOSTS, BLESSED IS THE MAN THAT TRUSTETH IN THEE.” Psalm 84:11, 12.

For all who early seek His face

Shall surely taste His love;

Jesus will take them in His grace,

To dwell with Him above.

Messages of God’s Love 7/16/1911

The World's Birthday

Chapter 5.

The Work of the Second Day

WE considered in our last lesson the work of the first day, under the operation of the mighty power of the Spirit moving upon the face of the deep. There was first, the wonderful work of the creation of the light. God said. “Let there be light; and there was light.” There was an evening and there was a morning, this was the first day. Our lesson today is to be about the work of the second day, this is also a most magnificent work, the creation of the atmosphere, a work more wonderful, as you will see, than you perhaps have ever before thought it. God said, “Let there be a firmament (or rather ‘expanse’ as the word is better translated) in the midst of the waters.” And God made the expanse; there was something expanded or spread out, a globe of air spread around the globe of the earth. As the air is called Atmos in Greek, this globe or sphere of air, which was then wrapped around our globe, is called atmosphere.

How wonderful all this is! God has been pleased to tell us, His creatures, the exact order in which He worked during those wonderful six days. God, “who inhabiteth eternity” does not work as we do. When we do any great work we have only a few years at the most (for our life is but a vapor, Jas. 4:14) to accomplish it and very often our tasks are unfinished; death collies and puts an end to all things belonging to time. But God has eternity before Him, and so He has wrought all these wonders in successive order. We don’t know how long it took God to create heaven and earth “in the beginning,” we are not told. God could have caused them to spring up in the twinkling of an eye—-”all things are possible with God.”

In all creation we see the divine order marked on everything that grows. When you plant an acorn, you do not have an oak tree at once mighty and high, but a little plant that would go in a tea cup, hut after many years steady, but almost imperceptible growth, you have a grand tree whose size and shade are admired by all. The beauty of the rose is gradually unfolded and so in all nature. All these wonders have a voice for us. if we will but pause and hear.

But we must go on with our lesson. Let us recall to mind, clear children, the state that this world was in at the end of the first day and the beginning- of the second. At the end of the first day, light had come, that glorious creation. This was much in itself, but the globe of the earth was still entirely covered by water. Do you think, my little friends, if you had been placed on it in an ark as Noah afterwards was, that von could have lived? No, because then you could not have breathed. And why so? For a very simple reason, because You would have had no air, and man cannot live a moment without air. Thus then the earth during the time of the first day, was all covered by the abyss of waters, no man, no animal, no plant could live.

Remark, dear children, that the story of this wonderful creation is told by Moses in words an in an order that no ‘man by human wisdom could ever have thought of. Surely we must admit that none other than God the “Creator” has given us this revelation by the hand of His servant Moses. It was about three thousand years later that learned men made the discoveries about the existence, nature and weight of air. Now look at your Bibles and see with what simplicity it tells us of this wonderful creation, so necessary to our existence, verse (3. God said, Let there be an expanse in the midst of the waters. or between the waters, and this space between the waters is the only place that human being’s in the natural body can exist. And God made the expanse and divided the waters which were under the expanse, from the waters which were above the expanse; and it was so. Here we are told of one of the great uses of the atmosphere—it divides the water from the water. The waters above, or the treasures of the clouds, the storehouse of the rain were divided from the waters below by the atmosphere, spread out like a curtain between them on the second day, thus preparing for man a tent to dwell in, between the waters. “The Lord stretcheth out the heavens as a curtain, and Spreadeth them out as a tent- to dwell in.” Isa 40:22.

Dear children, there is a great deal more to be said about the wonders of the atmosphere,—I should have wished to tell you about the winds and their wonderful circuits so well described by Solomon (Eccles. 1:6), but we can not spend the time nor space here. We have said enough at present about this wonderful work of the second day; I must conclude with but one word more. After considering the work of the second day, does it not make us feel how very dependent we are upon God for the very air we breathe, and how seldom we think of thanking Him for these blessings? “Bless the Lord, 0 my soul: and all that is within me, bless His holy name. Bless the Lord, Oh my soul, and forget not all His benefits.” Psa. 103: 1, 2.

Messages of God’s Love 7/16/1911

The King Is Listening

I AM going to tell my little readers of a good way to learn their lessons, for I know how it will please the clear little hearts that get worried over their lessons sometimes.

A little girl found her lessons very hard, and this is how she overcame and learned them: Her mother was having her taught music, and poor little May seemed so dull at learning, and she often shed a little tear at the thought of practicing, when she would rather be playing out of doors. Her mamma tried in every way to make her try harder, but the poor little girl could not take an interest in it.

One day, when she started to practice, her mamma was astonished to hear how well she was playing, and came into the room, saying, “Why, May dear, that was splendid. You are improving. You must be trying harder.”

Little May, looking around to her mamma with a pleased face, said, “Well, I tried to make myself believe the king was listening, and so I played my best for him to hear.”

She always tried the plan after this and soon overcame all her difficulties, for, you see, dear children, she was playing for the king to hear.

Now, I want my readers to try this plan too, but not to think of an earthly king who cannot hear.

There is a much greater King, the “King of kings” in heaven, who really can and does hear. He hears every little word and sees every little act. He sees your lessons, and the little tasks your teachers or parents give you to do, so how careful and how watchful you should be that your work is done for such a great King to see!

Have you ever thought that a King, the Lord Jesus Christ, is watching you all day long, and listening to all you say? Yes, dear children, He is, and it grieves Him when you do or say that which is not right.

Remember He is looking and listening, and He wants you to tell Him all your troubles, for He loves little children.

Children’s prayers He loves to hear,

Children’s praise delights His ear.

Messages of God’s Love 7/16/1911

Washington and His Family

WE see here Mr. and Mrs. Washington, their two children and a servant. None of us need an introduction to the father of this home. His name, and title as “Father of his country” are both familiar to us. What homage has been paid to this man for his deeds of valor and for the love displayed toward his homeland. Men of this world are not slow in recognizing this man who saved his country in a time of peril, but what is their attitude toward the Saviour of the world who gave up all His riches and glory in heaven to save the souls of men? Think of Jesus as giving up His very life, and that not for His friends, but His enemies. We read in God’s Word that He gave up all and became poor that you might be saved. “For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich.” 2 Cor. 8:9.

While this man, Washington, may have the world’s applause, may not Jesus have the praise of your lips? Remember your soul is immortal; the things of this world are but for time. God tells us the world itself will pass away, and then what will be of the most importance to you? God shows Us, too, in His Word, the uncertainty of life. “FOR WHAT IS YOUR LIFE? IT IS EVEN A VAPOUR, THAT APPEARETH FOR A LITTLE TIME, AND THEN VANISHETH AWAY.” James 4:14.

Man may become great in this world, but for how long? His life has also been compared to a weaver’s shuttle, and an eagle’s flight, for it is spent so quickly. Then what for eternity? If you do not know the Saviour who died for your soul, to forgive your sins do come to Him now. “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Cor. 6:2.

Messages of God’s Love 7/23/1911

The World's Birthday

Cbapter 6.

Three great wonders of the third day

WE have now come to the third day of creation. The works of the first two days have been great and wonderful, but the works of the third day are more magnificent still. At the end of the second day our globe was still on fire within, but the reign of darkness and silence was at an end. Light had appeared on the first day, and the air—the instrument of sound—had been created on the second, the waters below separated from the waters above, yet there was no life on the earth, in the air or in the water. On the third day, three wonders appeared which I will try to explain to you.

First wonder—the crust of the earth which had long been forming underneath the water above the burning fire within, burst forth, upheaved from the bottom of the ocean, by the mighty force of the fire within, tossed up by the volcanic forces, thus the dry land rose.

Second wonder—the great abyss of waters which had covered the whole earth threw themselves, at God’s command, into the vast depths prepared for them and were surrounded by His power with barriers which their wild waves dared not cross without His permission. The Lord set a compass (or circle) upon the face of the depth, and gave to the sea His decree that the waters should not pass His commandment: when He appointed the foundations of the earth, (Prov. S: 27-29.) What a terrible scene, and yet how full of majesty.

Third wonder—the last and most wonderful of the three; life at last began on the earth. The earth and the air, the storehouses for the plants were prepared, and the family of plants appeared—what a numerous family it is. It is estimated that there are sixty thousand varieties. What a charming covering for the bare and desolate earth, worn by the waters, tossed by the fire. The reign of plants! What a grand spectacle for the eyes of man, who soon afterwards beheld them in their beauty. We may guess their beauty from their vast remains and dark pictures left upon the rock’ below the surface of the earth. Thus step by step, calling forth one wonderful work after another; God was preparing a dwelling place for men before He formed them. The coal which warms us and the gas that lights us, all were stored up, long ages ago, for our use deep below the surface of the earth. When we learn such facts as these, should we not say with the apostle Paul, “Oh, the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God, how unsearchable are His judgments and His ways past finding out”? (Rom. 11:33).

The evening and the morning were the third day. “And God said: Let the waters under the heaven be gathered together unto one place, and let the dry land appear, and it was so.” God has summoned this earth to appear above the fire and above the water—this earth to which long ages after came the “Word” who “became flesh” to manifest the love and grace of Him who had spoken and all these wonders appeared. And on this same earth, the “Word” who became flesh was hung up and crucified by the creatures of His own hand. Children, can you say that that One (Jesus) who was cast out of this earth and crucified, is your Saviour and that He died for you, and that your sins are washed away in His precious blood?

Remark here the words used—God does not say let the dry land be created, but let the dry land appear, for the land had been long before formed and prepared under the mighty waters. It existed already, but it was necessary that part of it should be raised up, and appear above the waters, and that part of it should be lowered to receive into its depths and hollows the abundance of waters, for God said also, “Let. the waters under the heaven be gathered together into one place.” “Bless the Lord O my soul. O Lord my God, Thou art very great; Thou art clothed with honor and majesty. Who coverest Thyself with light as with a garment; who stretchest out the heavens like a curtain; Who laid the foundations of the earth, that it should not be removed forever. Thou coveredst it with the deep as with a garment; the waters stood above the mountains. At Thy rebuke they fled: at the voice of Thy thunder they hasted away. They go up by the mountains; they go down by the valleys unto the place which Thou hast founded for them. Thou hast set a bound that they may not pass over; that they turn not again to cover the earth.” (Psa. 104: 1-2-5-6-7-8-9.)

Well, dear young friends, consider then that the condition of the earth on which we live, which has risen out of the fire and out of the water, ought ever to remind us of our dependence on God, and teach us that we are guarded and kept from day to day by His mighty power. We know that the crust which covers our globe, on which we build our houses and our cities, is placed above the fires which are surging beneath, like a frail raft floating over a sea of liquid fire. The thickness of the earth’s crust is said by geologists to be about nine miles in depth. What is this when compared
with the size of the earth, a globe twenty-five thousand miles in circumference and eight thousand miles in diameter. The form of the earth. has often been compared to an orange, but the skin of the orange is much thicker, in proportion to its size than the crust which envelopes the fluid part of our globe, when compared with the size of the earth. Think then how thin is the crust on which we tread; what wonder is it if this thin crust is often shaken and disturbed by the outbursts and movements of the fire within.

Well, dear children, I hope that you now understand something about the first two great wonders of the third day —the dry land appearing above the waters, and the waters being gathered together in their appointed place and so forming the ocean and seas of our globe. Do not suppose that the proportion of dry land and sea have been fixed by chance. God has done all by rule and measure. “-Who hath measured the waters in the hollow of His hand and meted out heaven with a span; and comprehended the dust of the earth in a measure, and weighed the mountains in scales, and the hills in a balance.” (Isa. 40:12.)

Before concluding, I must say a few. words about the third, and wonderful work of the third day. This was the birth of the plants. A chemist can form rocks and even precious stones by combining silicium, lime, carbon, etc., but could anyone but God form a tree, a blade of grass, a bit of moss or the smallest living plant? A watch which is one of man’s greatest works, what is it compared to a tiny plant which you can scarcely see without the aid of the microscope? What would you think of a watch which could produce watches, which in turn could produce other watches, and so on from generation to generation, from age to age? Here We see the power and wisdom of God’ the Creator. “And God said, Let the earth bring forth grass; the herb yielding seed, and the fruit tree yielding fruit after his kind, whose seed is in itself upon the earth; and it was so. And the earth brought forth grass and herb yielding seed after his kind, and the tree yielding fruit, whose seed is in itself after his kind; and God saw that it was good. And the evening and the morning were the third day.” Gen. 1:11-13.

“O Lord, how manifold are Thy works; in wisdom hast Thou made them all; the earth is full of Thy riches.” Psa. 104:24.

Messages of God’s Love 7/23/1911

A Gift for You

A GENTLEMAN walking along a railway siding going from the main line to a colliery, looked down upon a roughly-built cottage, with holes in the tiled roof. At first he thought the place was uninhabited, but as he came to the front he noticed an old woman and her grown-up daughter.

Thinking that he might be able to make things a little more comfortable for them, especially as bad weather was threatening, he decided to purchase a pair of blankets when next he went into town on business.

A few days later he took the blankets in a brown paper parcel, and pictured to himself the delight of the couple.

As he passed the window the old woman was looking out, and he held up the parcel. But she only frowned and shook her head.

He opened the door, and was about to speak, when she cried out, “Begone, I don’t want to buy any of your goods,” and slammed the door.

“My good woman,” said the gentleman, as he again opened the door, “I do not want to sell them.”

“Begone about your business,” was the only response.

By this time he saw that she was stone deaf.

“I will show her what it is,” he said to himself; “perhaps she will understand then.”

He untied the parcel and displayed the blankets, but all to no purpose.

“Why don’t you go away? I have told you I don’t want them.”

What more could he do? He took one out and held it up full length and breadth.

Again came the words, angrily, “Why don’t you go away when I tell you?”

He determined on a final effort to make the old woman understand. Taking the blanket, he threw it right around her, and burst into a hearty laugh.

Then the meaning of it flashed upon her. Looking at him, she exclaimed, timidly—

“For me?”

He nodded his head and smiled.

“A gift?” she queried.

Again he nodded.

“A gift for me?” she repeated to herself. She stroked it with her hands and felt the warmth of it, then laughed and cried for joy; she grasped the hands of the giver, and thanked him with all her heart.

Are you deaf and blind to the love of Christ?

“I will give you rest,” says He. Take it with thankfulness. Accept it with gratitude. It is a gift—a gift for you.

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

Messages of God’s Love 7/23/1911

Waters of Quietness

WHEREVER one may look, the provision God has made for His creatures can be seen, and our picture today reminds one of that. The shady, cool retreat for the cows and the running stream for their refreshment, all speak to us of God’s tender and wise care.

Have you thought, dear reader, how tenderly and graciously God cares for you and supplies your needs—giving you food and clothing, health rind strength, yea, all you have? But perhaps there is someone who reads these lines says, “I have not health and strength; I do not have all I need.” If God has withheld these things from you, have you thought why He does so? Perhaps there has not been gratitude in the past for all His mercies, or it may be He wants you to think more of eternal things. There is one thing we may be sure of, and that is, that He has some lesson to teach you, and if you quietly submit He will show you in time what He has for you. It may be you have not yet confessed the Lord Jesus as your Saviour. If that is the case, whether you have the many blessings of this life, or are deprived of them, I pray you, accept God’s greatest expression of His love in giving His Son to die for you, so that you may have eternal life through Him.

If you despise that offer, you will sooner or later get God’s judgment, and that will not be the temporal mercies withheld , from you; but it will be the wrath of God—forever and ever banish: ed from His presence.

God sent His Son to bear that punishment for you, and if you will only accept Him, you will be saved from it.

“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.

0 dear reader, believe in Him now, if you have not done so in the past, and then you ,will know the preciousness of that verse, “He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?” Rom. 8:32.

He will give us all things according to His love and wisdom, but not according to the desires of our natural hearts.

Messages of God’s Love 7/30/1911

The World's Birthday

Chapter 7.

The work of the fourth day.

The great light and the clock of the world. Gen. 1:14-19.

HE work of the fourth day was even more magnificent than the work of the preceding days, and at the same time it was more marvelous to us. On the fourth day it pleased God to alter the form of light, by means of changes and revolutions which our small minds cannot comprehend. He gathered the light around the sun, and caused the glorious light to shine on us and the moon. We know the fact that it was so. On the fourth day the sun and moon became the lights of our world. We may rightly suppose that the sun, that immense globe, distant from us about 95,000,000 miles, around which our earth is ever turning, had not been created on the fourth day. It had most likely sprung into being at the time of the beginning, when God created the heavens and the earth. But it was on the fourth day that it was lighted up for us, and became the light of this world by day; and by night our attendant light, the moon, which is but the mirror and reflector of the sun, began to shine upon the earth with her borrowed light. The sun and moon had most probably been in existence like lamps still unlighted; but when it pleased God to command them to become lights, they were lighted, and then these two great globes became our lights. You may wonder how this earth was lighted when the grass and herbs beautified it. That we do not know; but I may tell you at the same time that all the learned men who have studied the crust of the earth have agreed in this, that before the creation of man the earth wa3 lighted and warmed in a different way from what it is now. You may ask how they know this. I hope to explain this to you in few words. People have dug deep down in the earth, and in, Scotland, and in Canada, colder still—nay, even on the icy shores of Baffin’s Bay and on Melville Island, and there have beer found magnificent buried forests and gigantic trees which could only live now in the warmest countries of our globe, palm trees and immense ferns, which in our day have scarcely light and heat enough to grow even in the torrid zones.

Such was the work of the fourth day. But that you may understand better the beauty of the marvelous creation of the lights of heaven, you must know something of the light which they send to us; for of all the visible works of God, there is none which proclaims so loudly His supreme wisdom and power. I cannot tell you all I should like about the light and its nature, but let us speak of its speed—have you any idea of it? The mind becomes confused when we try to imagine it. For instance, whence, think you, came the bright rays which this morning lighted up your room with their dazzling brightness? Ah! they had traveled very far before they reached you, even all the distance between the sun and earth. If a man could take the same journey traveling at the rate of 95 miles a day, he would take 3000 years to do it. And yet it required only 8 minutes and .13 seconds for those rays of light to travel from the sun this morning to your window—they have come about 95,000,000 miles. The great luminaries were not only appointed to give light, they had another purpose to serve. They were intended to provide a useful help to man, in the regulation of his daily life, when, called into being at a later period, he should inhabit the earth. It was God’s will that man should be able to measure and to reckon time, and for this purpose He placed in the heavens a most magnificent and perfect clock, which tells the hours, the days, the weeks, the months, the seasons and the years, a clock which no one ever winds up but which goes constantly and never goes wrong.

“And God said, Let there be light in the firmament of the heavens to divide the days from the night, and let them be for signs and ‘for seasons and for days and years.” From the most ancient times men have measured upon sun dials the regular movements of the sun’s shadows. Perhaps many of you have never seen a sun dial. If you will take your Bible and turn to the 38th chapter of Isaiah and 8th verse, you will read that there was a sun dial in the days of Ahaz the king of Judah who lived over 700 years before Christ. I should like you all to remember, my young friends, how necessary it is for all of us to measure our time as we read in the 90th Psalm and 9th and 12TH verses. “We spend our years as a tale that is told. So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.” As the great clock of heaven reminds us of the passing precious hours, let us think how much of our time is wasted, gone never to return, gone, into eternity—by speaking idle words, in doing evil actions, thinking evil thoughts! We need to remember how short our time is, and as we are told in 1 Peter 4:7, “But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.”- Reader, are you unsaved? Time is quickly passing, soon, it will have run its course, then, eternity where time is never counted. While time is yours, accept the Saviour who died for you that you might be saved, “Behold now is the accepted time; behold now is the day of salvation.” 2 Cor. 6:2.

Messages of God’s Love 7/30/1911

God Is With Me

A LITTLE girl who had been taught of the Lord Jesus, and His love for her soul and body, was sent out one evening to pay a bill for her grandmother. The distance from home was rather long, and the way somewhat lonely.

After she had paid the money, and received the change, she turned to go home, but it became dark before she reached there.

As she passed along, a man met her in the dark. Surprised at finding a little thing like her alone, he asked, “Little girl! are you not afraid to go in this lonely place in the dark?”

“Ah, no”! she answered “for God is with me!”

Then both of them kept on their ways, and after a little while she reached home, led safely by Him in whom she trusted.

The little girl soon forgot the matter. There did not seem much to remember in simply being asked by a man, if she was not afraid; and a little child of nine years can soon find enough new things to think about, without keeping such trifles of the past in mind.

But this was no trifle; and God made use of it, as He makes the little seed, dropped without meaning, to grow into a bush or tree after many days.

This little girl was sent to Sunday-school after a while, and became fond of her teacher, and was no doubt very much beloved by her.

One day her teacher called her back and told her that her husband wished to see her. So she went with the lady to her home, and after she had taken dinner with her, the husband of the teacher said to the little child, ‘Do you remember, many months ago, meeting a man on the road in the evening, who asked you if you were not afraid?”

“Yes, sir,” she answered, “I do.”

“Well,” he said, “I was that man; I was drunk at the time; but your answer that God was with you, clung to me, and I thought it over when I became sober, and it has really been used by God, to lead me to become His child by believing in the Lord Jesus Christ. I want to thank you, and to let you know, dear child, that the Lord used you in my salvation, not only from drunkenness, but from hell.”

Do you not think this dear child felt very happy and very solemn, in hearing such words?

Can you say as this little girl did, “I am not afraid, for God is with me”?

Messages of God’s Love 7/30/1911

How Old Must I Be?

“HOW old must I be, mother, before I can be a child of God?” asked a little girl. The wise mother answered, “How old must you be, my darling, before you can believe what I say to you?”

“I believe what you tell me now, dear mother; but you have not said how old I must be before I can be a child of God.”

The mother answered with another question “How old must you be before you can trust me for everything?”

“I trust you now,” cried the little girl, throwing her arms around the neck of her mother; “but please do answer my question.”

The mother went on: “How old must you be before you can do what I ask you?”

The child was guessing now what her mother wanted her to understand, and she replied, “I can do that already, without being older.”

The mother said, “Just in the same way, you can be a child of God, without waiting till you are older. All you have to do is to believe what God has told you about His blessed Son—the Lord Jesus Christ, the Saviour for you; and trust Him for everything, and seek to please Him.

He says to you, ‘Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved.’ (Acts 6:31).

`Trust in the Lord with all thine heart.’ (Prov. 3:5).

`Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; and walk in love, as Christ also hath loved .us.’ (Eph. 5:1, 2).

Would you not like to do so now?”

The little one whispered, “Yes,” then they both kneeled down together and asked the Lord to make her His child, and He took her to His heart and made her His own possession.

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

Messages of God’s Love 7/30/1911

Bible Questions for August

Answers to Bible Questions for June

“So when this corruptible,” etc. 1 Cor. 15:51.

“Whether th:4.z-:fore,” etc. “ “ 10:31.

“Bet the natural man,” etc. “ “ 2:14.

“What is my reward,” etc. 9:18.

“Every man’s work,” etc. “ 2:13.

“And if Christ,” etc. “ “ 15:17.

“1 here hath no,” etc. “ “ 10:13.

Bible Questions for August

The answers to be found in the Epistle to the Galatians.

Write the verse containing the words, “The cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Curse of the law.”

Write the verse containing the words,” “Works of the law,” three times.

Write the verse containing the words, “Gave Himself for me.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Present evil world.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Long suffering.” “Gentleness.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Works of the law.” “Under the curse.”

Messages of God’s Love 8/6/1911

The World's Birthday

Chapter 8.

The Work of the Fifth and Sixth Days
Wonders of the Animal Creation.
Gen. 1:20-25.

WE will now consider the work of the fifth day and what a wonderful work of creation it was, and how many things I might tell you about the curious living creatures that were called into being on the fifth day—-the great sea monsters, and all the living things that swarm in the waters, And the birds and insects which fly in the air, from the whale to the smallest fish, from the eagle to the feeble fly. And how many things about the animals created on the sixth day, that walk or creep on the earth, from the elephant and rhinoceros to the snail.

To give you some idea of how numerous they are, it is said that there are at least 4,000 kinds of fish, 3,000 kinds of birds still existing, besides 1,600 species now extinct, which according to Professor Agassiz, have been found in the heart of the rocks. There are 600 kinds of quadrupeds, and 700 kinds of reptiles still in existence, together with 44,000 kinds of visible and millions of invisible insects, besides those which are extinct.

While Scripture does not give us much information as to the various kinds of animals and their size, yet God has been pleased to reveal to learned men who have examined rocks deep down in the earth, some of the facts about these creatures of the fifth and sixth days’ work.

For more than a hundred years scientific men have been learning to read more and more ,distinctly the records written in characters of marble in the mountains and rocks within the crust of the earth. Before going further, I must call your attention to this interesting fact that Moses guided by the Spirit of God ‘when’ writing the account of the work of these two days, divides the work of the fifth day from the sixth day, and also, the living creatures were divided into two great classes. The first sprang from the waters; the waters brought them forth abundantly, but “God created them” says’ the Scriptures. The second sprang from the earth, but “God made” them we are told. Taking the works of the fourth, fifth and sixth-day in their order, we have first, herbs and trees; second, sea creatures and birds; third, animals which walk or creep ‘upon the earth. Some men have thought and said that the fowl was brought forth from the waters; but if you will take time to examine your Bible at the 20th verse, you will see in the margin these words, “Let fowl fly,” (also see chapter 2:19) meaning to let them fly above the earth. Now as to some of the wonderful discoveries in the rocks of some of the mountains of Switzerland and in the deep ravines, sea shells have been found turned into stone. The cornua ammonis (a species of snail) for example, have been found, some of which are as large as a carriage wheel. And what is more wonderful still, is that in the heart of the rock there might also be found a fish petrified, or turned into stone, the form of its eyes, its fins, and all of its parts were distinctly visible, its scales might have been counted. There are also mountains where have been found fish, lizards, winged insects, immense monsters and a kind of very large bat, and in other mountains have been found the remains of cattle, horses, elephants-, lions, tigers, also enormous unknown animals, which can be, seen in some of the great museums. If we consider all these facts in the light of Scripture we can only say, Surely it is a mighty revelation from God. Scientists have tried to cast discredit upon God’s Word by their discoveries which are only partial and therefore incomplete, asserting that Scripture does not agree with science, which Scripture never attempts to do, although true science does agree with Scripture. But remember this, that we have an enemy who ever tries to make us (as he did Adam) disbelieve what God has been pleased to give us in His word which is truth; then let us cling closely to it and seek to be guided by it. Also let us adore God for His mighty wisdom and glory as shown in His great works as also in His Word. We need to be careful in these days, when human science seeks to cast discredit upon Scripture, and always objecting to facts but proving nothing, and Satan’s object is to create doubts in the minds of God’s creatures and thus blind them as to the truth.

Messages of God’s Love 8/6/1911

The Dying Miner

DOWN in the deep, dark coal pit, Willie Smith, a miner lad, was led to the Saviour, through words read to him in the light of his “Davy Lamp,” by a Christian fellow-worker, who had ever since his own conversion prayed for and sought to lead Willie to the Lord. Kneeling together among the workings, the two happy lads thanked the God of heaven together for giving them life in Christ. Then they joined in singing, until the pit rang with the echo—

“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.”

A group of miners gathered around, to see what had happened, and heard from Willie’s own lips the story of his conversion, how it was “not by doing, not by feeling, but just by looking unto Jesus who died on the Cross for sinners.” Prophets, evangelists, apostles say the same, for there is only one Saviour and one way of salvation, the same in all time and for all men. “Look unto Me and be ye saved” (Isa. 45:22). “Behold the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world” (John 1:29). “While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us” (Rom. 5:6), is their word.

A loud report, followed by a cloud of smoke, told that something serious had happened in Pit No. 9. Crowds of screaming women rushed toward the pithead, and soon the sad news spread through the “Rows” that an explosion had bereft several families of their breadwinners. Badly burned and bruised by a falling stone, was Willie Smith, only a month a Christian, and just beginning to testify the Gospel, which had become the power of God in his own salvation, to others. Laid on a stretcher at the pithead, his eyes glazing in death, his lips were seen to move, and kneeling by his side a fellow-workman heard the dying lad whisper—”Look to Jesus on the Cross lifted up like the serpent on the pole to give life. O, I am glad I took the Life-look down there in the pit, and He saved me. I do not fear death. I am going to the land of the living, to see the Lord and be with Him forever.” Then a pause, a deep, solemn silence, while the dying miner lad gathered strength for a last effort, a last testimony. “Look to Jesus, lads; He is mighty to save.” It was all he had strength to say, and then the lips were silent, and the saved and happy lad had passed from that scene of darkness and death, up to “the land of the living” as he rightly named it, to be with Christ. Reader, do you know what it is to take the life look? Have you looked to Christ, the dying Saviour, as the bitten Israelite, at the word of Moses, looked to the serpent on the pole? “Look and live.”

Messages of God’s Love 8/6/1911

Fear

HERE we have two visitors,— a little girl and her grandmother. But it does not look as though they came to this place very often, for the little girl seems quite timid and slow about shaking hands with the kind lady who is reaching out her hand. She does not feel acquainted. She does not know whether the lady will harm her or be good to her.

Children, like many kinds of young creatures are afraid of strangers because they fear being hurt. Even older people sometimes fear certain ones whose faces do not have a pleasant, kind expression. Angry looks repel us, but loving looks draw us.

But dear children, there is One Person whom we do not see, yet sometimes fear. Can you tell me who it is? I hear you say “God.” That is right. Now can you tell me why we are ever afraid of God? It is because we know that we have sinned—that our hearts are wicked and full of sin. We know that we deserve God’s anger and punishment for this sin and that we have no claim on His love. But God is love. God is merciful and He gave His only Son, Jesus, to die on the cross for us—to bear the punishment for our sins. If we accept Jesus as our Saviour, our sins are washed away in His precious blood and then God looks upon us as clean. We can approach Him as a loving Father.

But if we refuse the blessed Saviour, we may well stand in fear—in terrible fear of an angry God. For God will have no mercy on those who despise His blessed Son. He will punish them with an awful and eternal punishment.

To us who love Him, He says, “Fear thou not; for I am with thee,” Isaiah 41:10. No matter what dangers and troubles threaten and surround us, we can tell God all about them and trust in Him to take care of us. Is not this far better and far happier than to be living in fear?

“THE LORD IS MY LIGHT AND MY SALVATION; WHOM SHALL I FEAR? THE LORD IS THE STRENGTH OF MY LIFE; OF WHOM SHALL I BE AFRAID?” Psalms 27:1.

Messages of God’s Love 8/6/1911

Boat Riding

WE all enjoy boat riding I’m sure, and specially so if father is along, for then we feel safe and quite sure that no one will dare reach too far and tip us out.

In our picture we see a father with his two daughters. The girls must be tired, for they sit so quietly and comfortably. Possibly they have been picnicking all day on the other side of the lake and father has come to bring them home. He acts as though he is not just sure what course is best around these bushes; possibly he has not tried this way before and does not know just where to go. You see the sun is

fast sinking behind those trees and he may be a bit anxious.

Have you ever thought how many, many people there are in this world? We might say an ocean of People, and how many of them are hurrying along in the current of this life not knowing where they will go. Many are so busy and rushed that they do not think what their end will be. But God has told them if they would only pause and consider, “It is appointed unto men once to die, and after this, the judgment.” Heb. 9:27.

How sad, too, that the mass of people are not anxious to make sure their eternal welfare. The man in our picture seemed anxious as he saw the sun going down and the day closing, but men and women, yes, even boys and girls today seem indifferent to God’s call and to the fact that His day of mercy is soon to close. He has given His Son to be the light and Saviour of this world. Has He given light and life to your soul? Remember life is uncertain—it may be your days are few; do not neglect God’s salvation for you. Put to yourself the question, “Whither bound?”

“BOAST NOT THYSELF OF TOMORROW, FOR THOU KNOWEST NOT WHAT A DAY MAY BRING FORTH.” Prov. 27:1.

Messages of God’s Love 8/13/1911

Thirty Years in Prison

ON the left bank of the Neva which flows through St. Petersburg, the capital of Russia, there is a long row of beautiful buildings. Opposite, on the right side of the river, is the “Fortress, built on a little island in the middle of the stream, with fortifications, batteries and numerous other defenses. From their midst rises up the Church of Peter and Paul, and on its gilded sharp-sloping roof is supported a tower, with a cross of gold held up by an angel.

This fortress tells of the life and death of every member of the Russian royal house; they all lie buried in that church, but there are underground vaults, the windows of which almost on a level with the river let in little light, which also tell many a striking story of the life and death of those who were imprisoned in them; many have walked out from them for the last time, to end their lives at the hand of the executioner. .

In one of these vaults, a man of many gifts, who on account of his own guilt, had forfeited all hope of life; found peace and happiness.

Batenkow was the name of a Russian officer, who in 1825 was one of the leaders in an insurrection against the czar. Czar Nicolas I. was then on the throne. He defeated the misguided rebels, disarmed them and cast the ringleaders into the dungeons of the Fortess of Peter and Paul.

After a long and thorough trial, 121 of the prisoners were condemned—some to death, some to many years hard labor in the mines and some to banishment to Siberia.

Batenkow was condemned to hard labor for life. But through a remarkable intervention of God, he was not led away with the rest of the condemned on the day when the judgment was pronounced. He remained in his prison, indeed, he remained there 30 long years, till on the ascension of Alexander II to the throne, a general pardon opened his prison door. He stepped forth into life again an old man, with long white beard, a stranger in the world where nobody any longer knew him.

To go back to the beginning of our story, in December, 1825, he was, with eyes blind-folded, brought to the fortress. He heard keys rattling, doors creaking, he was led into the prison vault and not till then were his eyes unbandaged. The cell was dismal, the window high up in the wall was protected with strong iron bars. Only a small ray of light could the prisoner see. A bed with a bluish-gray blanket, a table, and a bench formed the solitary furniture. A little spy hole in the door, covered with a strip of cloth on the outside, permitted the warden to look into the cell by day or night. In silence was the simple prison fare brought in; in silence was the cell cleaned from time to time. The bells of the neighboring church of the fortress allowed the monotonous melody of their chimes to be heard every hour of the day and night —beyond, this, it was mysterious silence.

On the first day of the imprisonment, the warden was informed that it was strictly forbidden for him to exchange even one word with the prisoner. He and his successor in office had faithfully fulfilled the stern command.

Batenkow was a highly educated and wise man, but prayerless and without faith. He thought that for him God and eternity were meaningless terms. One day he found in dusty corner of the cell a few books, which had escaped the notice of the warden in the darkness. They were the treasures of a former inmate of the same cell and had been left behind there; a German Bible, an old German prayer book, and a German calendar. Batenkow did not know a single word of German, nor even the German characters. He had, however, a Russian calendar in his coat pocket. Weeks and months, he spent in the endeavor, by comparing the two calendars, to learn the alphabetical characters and then a few words of the foreign language. The result spurred the gifted man on. After many months he had got so far as to recognize that the book he had found was the Bible. Of. its contents, he knew almost nothing, except from hearsay. The whole direction of his mind had led him to think that a man of his rank had no connection with this ancient book; and in this spirit he went on steadily investigating that book, the contents of which roused his contradiction, yet had a power over his soul that he could not cast from him.

The consciousness of the guilt of his sins against a Holy God was powerfully awakened within him, and the anxious question arose, How could he expiate his sins, and find peace with God? To this question, his wisdom found no answer, and he fell into a condition full of despair. In his narrow, wretched cell, he was now doubly unhappy, for all that he had learned in his life, and of which he had been so proud, became suddenly worthless in the hour of his deep need.

Often the walls of his prison echoed again the loud cry which he had learned out of the Bible; “O wretched man that I am! who shall deliver me from the body of this death?”

Again and again, he grasped his Bible, like a thirsty man, to drink of its waters, and in his long wrestling, he learned to cry, “Lord, I will not let Thee go, except Thou bless me.” Gradually did the light shine into his soul and after years of conflict, the once proud man lay in the dust before the Crucified of Calvary.

Years rolled on, spring, summer, autumn, winter passed over the prison; the frost on the window pane, the warm air, the singing of the birds told the prisoner of the change of the seasons. Of what was happening in the world outside, not a word came to the cell; the warders were indeed changed, but their silence remained the same—pitiless.

And yet what a wonderful change in the deepest recesses of the prisoners soul, through the daily calm communion with his ever present Lord! How the peace of his heart increased, how precious became every word of the power and grace of his God, from whose hands he now accepted the heavy trial of his life, and through Him was enabled to hear everything. All bitter thoughts against the men who had sent him to such a hard fate vanished; he felt happy in his God. In his cell he had become happier and freer, than he had ever been in the days of the unbridled freedom of his youth.

And when after 30 years of solitude, the door of his cell was suddenly flung open and he was led out into the bustle of life, and the rush of the streets of the Russian Capital, he pronounced himself thus:—”The world truly swarms with men, but there is in it no friend for me. My old Bible I have taken with me from the cell; it will no more leave me than my best Friend, whom I received through it, my Lord Jesus Christ.

“Now I know that the life I have lived during these 30 long years has not been wasted. I thank God for that long imprisonment. In it I have found the One who is all to me—my Lord!”

Messages of God’s Love 8/13/1911

The Little Deaf and Dumb Boy

AT a public examination of the pupils in one of the great schools for the instruction of the deaf and dumb, was a fine little boy whose pleasant countenance and attractive manner so much interested a gentleman present that he was induced to write upon the boy’s slate the following question:—”My dear little boy, you see all the stars, and the sun, and the earth around you; can you tell me how they all came there?”

To this the little fellow at once wrote this reply, “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.”

The gentleman then wrote, “But whence come all the misery and death that you see on all sides?”

“Sin came into the world, and death by sin,” wrote the little boy.

The gentleman was surprised, and wrote, “Can you tell me any way in which man may be delivered from all this sorrow?”

“The blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth from all sin,” wrote the little fellow.

Still more surprised, the gentleman again wrote, “I will ask you only one question more. Can you tell me why you can neither speak nor hear, when so many around you can do both.”

“Even so, Father,” wrote the little boy, with a happy smile, “for so it seemed good in Thy sight.”

The gentleman was amazed; and well he might be; for here was a little deaf and dumb boy who had answered these four hard questions in a way that none of the philosophers of the heathen world could have done, and who was happy, peaceful, and contented, because he believed in these great truths, which he had learned from the Holy Scriptures. Now what a precious book must that be from which may be learned truths like those that made the little deaf and dumb boy so happy in believing! The Bible is full of instruction for all. And let not little children think that they are not able to understand it, for if they love it, and read it attentively, asking God to instruct them, He will not refuse the teaching of His Holy Spirit, whereby they will be enabled to better understand it, and to apply it to themselves; thus will they love and prize it more. The smallest child who can read the Bible may learn from it what not any of the wise men of the world can know without the Bible.

“Not all the books on earth beside

Such heavenly wonders tell.”

. . . . . . . .

The Bible tells us Jesus died

A sacrifice for sin:

The gates of heaven to open wide,

That we may enter in.

The Bible tells us Jesus rose,

And left the silent grave,

Triumphant over all His foes,

The mighty One to save.

Messages of God’s Love 8/13/1911

Sheep Shearing

HERE is a sight not familiar to most of us. Everyone has seen sheep and knows what innocent, harmless creatures they are, but I doubt if many have witnessed the shearing of a sheep.

Each spring time in the western part of our country we might see one person alone shearing from ninety to one hundred and twenty of these animals in one day. Shearing machines are also used for this purpose. Not only are sheep raised in our country, but in many other parts of the world: we find that Australia as a continent is noted for its sheep raising. Most people shear these animals twice during the year. Think of how much use their wool is to mankind and how willingly they give it up, —such resistless creatures.

Does this not make us think of the Lamb of God, Jesus, who went before His accusers without a word and endured all insults heaped upon Him for us. We read in Isaiah 55:7 of all that He passed through for us. “He was oppressed, and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth; He is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so He openeth not His mouth.” Think what the death of Jesus did for this lost world. Have you ever thanked Him for giving up His life so willingly for you? The work was finished on the cross, and now it is for you to believe in Jesus and accept Him as your Saviour. There is no other way for you to be saved or to have your sins pardoned.

“NEITHER IS THERE SALVATION IN ANY OTHER: FOR THERE IS NONE OTHER NAME UNDER HEAVEN GIVEN AMONG MEN, WHEREBY WE MUST BE SAVED.” Acts 4:12.

Messages of God’s Love 8/20/1911

The World's Birthday

Chapter 9.

The Creation of Man in the Image of God

Gen. 1:26-28.

WE have now reached the last period of the work of creation, when God made man, the last and the most wonderful of all His works. All was finished, all was ready, all was perfect, for God had looked upon it, and He saw that it was “good.” And now man was soon to appear, for whom all these glorious things had been prepared. “And God said, Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness; and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. So God created man in His own image, in the image of God created He him, male and female created He them, and God blessed them, and God said unto them, be fruitful and multiply, and replenish the earth and subdue it, and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air and over every creeping thing that moveth upon the earth.” Gen. 1:21;- 28. How beautiful the earth (fresh from the hand of God) must have appeared to Adam as he looked around in every direction, and he himself perfect from the creating hand of God, having dominion over the works of God, everything in perfect order. It is very hard for us to think of any other condition than that which surrounds us—sorrow, distress and all manner of disorder, because we have seen nothing else. As to its cause, we will look at that later. Adam was placed by God on the earth ‘in a state of innocence. Man was the last of God’s great works. “And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.” Gen 2:7.

Now let us see what a beautiful home God gave Adam, surrounding him with pleasant things. We read, “And the Lord God planted a garden eastward in Eden; (Garden of Delights—Paradise) and there He put the man whom He had formed.” Gen. 2:8., And God also provided food for Adam, also shade from the heat of the sun. We read in the ninth verse of the second chapter of Gen., “And out of the ground made the Lord God to grow every tree that is pleasant to the sight, and good for food; the tree of life also in the midst of the garden, and the tree of knowledge of good and evil.” Perhaps some of my readers may think if they had been placed there as Adam was, they would have been perfectly happy and contented. And I am sure Adam was, but though he was surrounded with all these pleasures and all the animals which God had created, to which Adam had given names, yet there was not found a fit companion for Adam. Now God had said, It is not good that man should be alone, I will make a companion for him.

Do you think God made a companion for Adam as He had made him out of the dust of the ground? No, God chose a way more wonderful in its meaning. And the Lord God caused a deep sleep to fall upon Adam, and he slept, and he took one of his ribs and closed up the flesh thereof instead and the rib which the Lord God had taken from Adam, made He a woman and brought her unto the man. Now this is the first time we hear Adam speaking and how delighted he must have been. And Adam said, This is now bone of my bone and flesh of my flesh, she shall be called woman because she was taken out of man. Gen. 2:21-23. Now all had been provided by a loving Creator for His creatures’ happiness. Of all those trees that God had caused to grow in the garden of Eden, of which God said to Adam “thou mayest freely eat,” there was only one not to be eaten of, and that was the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. “But of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil thou shalt not eat of it, for in the day that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely die.” Perhaps some of the young readers will wonder why God forbade Adam and Eve to eat of that tree. Well, children, I cannot answer that question very well, since God has not told us in His word, hut I think we can learn from other portions of Scripture, that God was testing Adam to see if he would obey His Word. God desires obedience above all else, even above sacrifice. “Behold to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.” 1 Sam. 15:22. And there are many more verses in God’s word about obedience; happy are we if we obey when God speaks, but woe to us if we do not obey. “For the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven—taking vengeance on them—that—obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 2 Thess. 1:7, 8. There is blessing in every act of obedience. “But to this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at My word.” Isaiah 66:2.

Well, we will now go back to our lesson about Adam. We have said that man was created in the image and likeness of God, but how soon was he changed by the one act of disobedience, and all of God’s lovely creation cursed on account of sin. But God is greater than Satan who caused Adam and Eve to sin, and begins at once to work out redemption, that fallen man may be brought back to Himself and that, Adam could never do. Now he has the knowledge of good and evil because of eating of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil; having the knowledge of good, but not the power to do it, because now he is no longer an innocent man but a sinner, and all that he can do is to sin. So here, praise His Holy Name, God tells of another Man to come; the woman’s seed who would bruise the head of the serpent, and the serpent would bruise His heel; and that one came 4,000 years later, born of a woman, according to the Word of God in Gen. 3:15, and Scripture speaks of Him as the last Adam. 1 Cor.. 15:45. And who was this last Adam? “The first man is of the earth, earthy, the second man is the Lord from heaven.” 1 Cor. 15:47. Well, we have viewed God’s wonderful works in creation, and have seen His wisdom and goodness in fitting up the earth as the dwelling place of His creatures, and have our hearts adored Him as we have considered His majesty, glory and greatness, which are revealed in His marvelous works in those six days? “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament showeth His handywork.” Psalm 19:1.

For Thou exceedest all the fame

Our ears have ever heard;

How happy we who know Thy name,

And trust Thy faithful word!

Messages of God’s Love 8/20/1911

A Glimpse of the Honey Bee

“Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise.” (Prov. 6:6.)

God has made us to understand through this Scripture, that even a tiny insect may teach us a lesson.

There was nothing created without a purpose, and now, dear children, we will for a time consider the ways of that humble, little toiler—the honey-bee.

Thousands of these puny insects are housed in the narrow limits of a single hive; and yet there is never the slightest confusion or discord to be seen among them.

The colony is supposed to be governed by a “queen”—a large, beautiful bee, which during the two or three years of her life, remains continuously—with rare exceptions—inside the hive.

This monarch bee is, in fact the mother of the entire colony, and deposits all of the eggs from which a succession of bees are continually being hatched.

The bees. reared from these eggs are not all similar, the cause of this difference being the size of the cell combs where the egg is laid, and also the manner of nurturing the incubation, which as yet, you are scarce old enough to understand.

It is enough to tell you at this time, that from the same parent bee, are produced drones, workers and queens.

These differing bees through instinct given by their’ Creator, (and not only a Creator of these little insects, but of vast worlds as well—Heb. 1:2,) at once take their suited place of service. They are not like little boys and girls who have to be taught in the schools of learning; God at their birth, endows them with all needed knowledge, and a swarm of bees today, with all of its modern conveniences for honey production, is no more perfect in wisdom than the one which found shelter under the roof of Noah’s ark during the flood of destruction.

But we will first tell you something about the “drone,” even the name of which is suggestive of its character; we trust however, that no child will take this bee as a pattern after which to shape his or her own life. The drones are large, lazy, though very noisy fellows, which do no work aside from the labor of eating a big share of the honey brought in by the industrious workers.

If you were to visit an apiary during some warm summer’s day, you would see numbers of these insects of “leisure,” taking their sun-hath in the genial air. Their loud sounding hum would seem to tell you they were the most energetic of the busy colony; but their energy—if they have any—is generally spent in useless noise.

When these poor, idle dependants have served their day, they are in general stung to death by the workers, and through this terminus of a life of indolence, the sluggard may be taught a useful lesson.

This life dear children, was never intended to be one long idle holiday, nor we, to live upon the toil of others.

There is work for all to do, though the work of childhood is largely to learn the lessons of obedience—not only to parental authority—but also to the greater claims of God, who has said:

“Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth.” Eccl. 12:1. Next week we will tell you something about the little workers.

Messages of God’s Love 8/20/1911

On the Water

HAT a quiet, pretty scene we have before us. Surely no rough wind is blowing, for the sails stand so straight and the boat is not the least tipped. Then look at the water, how beautiful it is, only gentle breezes could make such even ripples as these.

Have you ever been in a sail boat? Maybe you wish you were in this one. I wonder where it is going. It may be out on one of the Great Lakes with some young people in it for a pleasure ride. How small these people look under the big sales. We can barely see them, but I’m sure they are having a good time.

Who knows, though, what might happen to these merry people if a very strong wind should sweep across the waters? How easily this boat might be upset! Then I wonder how many in the boat would be prepared, if such an accident should occur. Far out from the shore, and with no other boat to help. How would it be were you one of their number, my little friend? Doubtless many of you will go boat riding this very summer, possibly not in a sail boat, but if God should allow such an awful thing, would you be ready for a watery grave? Or would you be afraid to meet God because you do not know that your sins are forgiven?

Many sad things may happen to you or your family before you get the next issue of this little paper. Do you heed its warnings? May you allow God’s Word to search your heart, and remember each story you read makes you more accountable to Him.

If you are not very sure that you would be happy to meet Jesus, give your heart to Him now. Come and know Him as your Saviour. He went to death and the grave for you, and is still yearning for your soul’s safety. Listen to His Word: “I AM THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE; NO MAN COMETH UNTO THE FATHER, BUT BY ME.” John 14:6.

Messages of God’s Love 8/27/1911

The Gospel Seen

HAVE you ever heard the Gospel?” a missionary asked a Chinaman.

“No,” was the reply, “but I have seen it. I know a man who was the terror of the whole district. He was at times as fierce as a wild animal, and was also an opium-smoker. When he accepted the Jesus’ religion, he became quite changed. Now he is meek, and is no longer wicked, and has given up opium smoking. I can see by that, that the Gospel and the service for Jesus are good.”

Someone has said: “Lamps do not talk, but they illuminate. Light-houses make no noise, but they give light.”

Thus must the walk of a Christian be a living sermon. Actions speak louder than words.

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Matt. 5:16.

Messages of God’s Love 8/27/1911

The World's Birthday

Chapter 9. Part 2.

We must now see from Scripture the sad results of that one act of disobedience in the garden of Eden; how it has altered God’s creation, and how He will yet triumph over sin and Satan, and will bless His creatures who have been ruined by that enemy. We read in Rom. 5:12, “Wherefore as by one man sin entered into the world and death by sin, and so death passed upon all men for that all have sinned.” Thus all are sinners in God’s sight, and God is of purer eyes than to behold evil, and cannot look on iniquity. Hab. 1:13. So now man, as a sinner can no longer be happy in the presence of his Creator. Not only has man become a sinner through disobedience, and put himself at a distance from God, but on his account, God has cursed the whole of His glorious creation, which came from His hand absolutely perfect. And unto Adam He said, “Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree of’ which I commanded thee, saying, thou shalt not eat of it; Cursed is the ground for thy sake. In sorrow shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life. Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee, and thou shalt eat the herb of the field.” Gen. 3:17, 18. Now turn with me to the 8th chapter of Romans and 22nd verse, and we will read a verse written many, many years after God pronounced the curse. “For we know the whole creation (or every creature) groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.” This is the animal creation suffering. Now the next verse, “And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the first fruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves.” Because of sin, this world was plunged into far greater darkness than that of which we have read in the first chapter of Genesis. That was a physical’ darkness, and God had only to say “Let there be light and there was light,” but this is a moral darkness, and cannot be dispelled as was the other. But we read in John 8:12, the words of the Lord Jesus “I am the light of the world, he that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life, and the light shined in darkness, but the darkness comprehended it not.” Men loved darkness rather than light. You know if we want to see all the rubbish in the dark cellar, you must let the light shine in. So Jesus having come as the Light, has revealed all the sin in the world.. In the first chapter of John and 29th verse, we read of Him as the “Lamb of God who taketh away the sin of the world.” So He, as the Lamb of God’s own providing, had to go to Calvary’s cross, and shed His precious blood and there He died. And it was there at the cross that He bruised the head of Satan while Satan bruised His heel. Now through that cross God has been glorified as to the question of sin, atonement has been made, and now all sinners (that means you and me) can come near to God and dwell in the Light. He (the Lord Jesus) is able to save to the uttermost all that come unto God by Him.” Heb. 7:25. “And the blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7.

Now let us see what about this earth — what will become of it since God has cursed it on account of sin? You will remember in a previous paper we spoke of the earth and all its works going to be burnt up. Read 2 Pet. 3:10. Nevertheless, we, according to His promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness. 2 Pet. 3:13. No stain of sin shall ever enter there, all shall be perfect, and that forever. “For the devil that deceived them shall be cast into the lake of fire and brimstone and shall be tormented day and night forever and ever.” Rev. 20: 10. “And death and hell shall be cast into the lake of fire.” Reader, have you believed God’s Word, that you are a sinner and have you accepted the Saviour He has provided? And is your name written in the Lamb’s book of life? Hear this: “And whosoever was .not found written in the Lamb’s book of life, was cast into the lake of fire.”

Messages of God’s Love 8/27/1911

A Glimpse at the Honey Bee

Part 2

When bees leave their shelter for a new home, the exodus is termed “swarming:” the air then teems with the seemingly excited little creatures,. and resounds with the music of their hum.

The queen, or mother bee, at this migration leads them from the old hive, directing their course, and also is their leader in “settling.”

When this mother bee lights upon a twig, or bush, the entire colony lights about her, forming a mass of separate, creeping particles, which, clinging together, gives the appearance of a whole. All that it is necessary to do at this time, is to shake off the mass of bees at the entrance of an empty hive, and the colony is ready to go to work at once.

And there is no wrangling among these little toilers, which I am sorry to say, is sometimes the case with children, as to choice in the work assigned them.

There are “nurse bees,” which naturally take their places to care for the hatching broods, brushing away each tiny scale or hindrance to their emergence from the cell; while the worker bee—of which the colony in general is composed—goes to the fields and woods for nectar.

At the early dawn of day, these industrious little creatures leave their homes to gather the night’s secreted sweets, and not only for present use, but to lay by in store for their winter’s food.

All through the long summer days, you may see them returning on wearied wings to fall exhausted at the entrance of their tiny homes, from which place they crawl with their burdens to the upper part of the hive to store it away in the honey-comb.

You will also see many bees coming in, the pockets on their legs loaded with pollen, looking much like the old fashioned saddle-bags used in pioneer days.

This useful pollen is carried by the bees from flower to flower, and is a provision made through God’s goodness, to fructify blooms, which without this assistance, would bear no fruit.

But when stored in the hive, it is called “bee-bread,” and is used especially by the young bees for food.

The life of the worker bee is short; six weeks of incessant toil usually tatters their wings and ends their service. But not an hour of their short lives is wasted in selfish folly; and each little deposit has supplemented the hives store for the wintry season, when they can no longer work.

And is there not a lesson taught us by the little bee, dear children? We were not placed in this world to spend our time in idleness and self-indulgence.

The bee lays up store for the time when it can no longer work; though sometimes the wily moth finds an entrance to its hive and destroys the fruits of its labor. We, too, should be occupied with provision for the future; not an earthly provision, where “moth and rust corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal”—( Matt. 6:19.) but with the Lord Jesus in heaven, where we shall be, if we believe on Him, whose blood cleanses from all sin!

When the night with its storms of wind and rain comes on, the bee is safely housed in its little domicile, where destruction cannot reach it. There is a time of dread destruction coming upon this wicked world, dear children—-a time of darkness and descending wrath; where will you be then?

Those who are trusting in the Lord Jesus, will be safe from its power among the glories of heaven; those who refuse to accept His salvation, must endure the “great day of His wrath and who shall be able to stand.” Rev. 6:17.

Messages of God’s Love 8/27/1911

Are You Ready?

Christ is coming, O be ready;

Let not slumber dull your eyes;

Do not say, “My Lord delayeth;”

He is coming, O be wise!

Some with empty lamps will hasten,

Seeking oil for them to buy;

But, alas! they’ll never enter;

Vain for them has been the cry.

Such, with hearts of anguish burning,

When they find the door is shut,

Will in terror, cry, “Lord, open;”

He will say, “I know you not.”

Messages of God’s Love 8/27/1911

Bible Questions for September

Answers to Bible Questions for July

“Blessed be God,” etc. 2 Cor. 1:3.

“For we must all appear,” etc. 5:10.

“But he that glorieth,” etc. “ 10:17.

“We are confident,” etc. “ 5:8.

“Having therefore,” etc. “ 7:1.

“In whom the god,” etc. “ 4:4.

“The grace of our Lord,” etc. 13:14.

Bible Questions for September

The answers are to be found in the Epistle to the Ephesians.

Write the verse containing the words, “A glorious church”.

Write the verse containing the words, “The Holy Spirit of God”..

Write the verse containing the words, “Redemption”. “Forgiveness”.

Write the verse containing the words, “This is right”.

Write the verse containing the words, “Armour of God”.

Write the verse containing the words, “Speaking the truth”.

Write the verse containing the words, “Spiritual blessings”.

Messages of God’s Love 9/3/1911

All Comes From Above

Chapter 1.
Father and Son

IN the prospering village of B____ in Germany there lived some years ago a God-fearing blacksmith. He was married, but had only one son, whose name was William. To this son he was fondly attached, first because he was his only son, and then because William had given him much joy and comfort from his earliest childhood. Not that his son was different in nature than other boys; no, he had the same evil and deceitful heart, but, being faithfully instructed by his believing father, he had learned to know himself a lost sinner, and through the grace of God had opened his heart in child-like and trustful obedience to the blessed Saviour. Because of this, a close and tender tie was formed, which became even stronger when the mother closed her ears to all entreaties of her husband,—and in course of time became more and more embittered against God and His word. William was a happy boy. Because of his real desire to please the Lord, it was not hard for him to take his place as an obedient child toward his unsaved mother. He was indeed an obedient son, whose purpose and heart’s desire was to please the Lord by obedience to his parents. Until his fourteenth year, he attended the village school, after which he became an apprentice in his father’s shop.

It was a pleasure to watch the two at their work. William was not very robust, and it was quite a task for him to work the large bellows. But he worked with a willing heart, and when his father started a hymn to the praise and glory of God, as he was wont to do, then William would join in with all his heart. In this way the hardest work became easy.

The old blacksmith was a happy Christian, and had learned to see the hand of God in every circumstance, no matter what it was. From His good and faithful hand, he took the easy and the hard things, the good and the evil. “All comes from above,” he used to say, and when William entered the little shop as an apprentice, he said: “Listen, my boy, whatever may happen, whether we have much work or little, whether the customers pay well or poorly, whether our money box is filled or empty, remember always that we are children of God and that therefore everything comes from our faithful Father. Do you hear: Everything! For, whatever man may do to ‘us, ,they are nothing but tools in the hands of our .heavenly Father, whether they will or not, for all comes from above. Even the hairs of our head are all numbered, and God has said will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.’ If you keep this constantly before your mind, you will go on your way ‘rejoicing, even though things may not go as you wish.”

That was a good word, and William heard it not only with his ears, but also with the heart. He was resolved to follow his father’s faithful counsel, and asked the Lord to give him strength. Often enough his faith was tested, for his mother was almost always discontented and ill-humored, and seldom had a kind and encouraging word for him. William bore the frequent unjust reproaches without gainsaying, and prayed daily for wisdom from above to treat his mother with respect and love. She was a poor unfortunate woman; it aggravated her to see her husband and son always happy and content. Alas, she did not know the source of their joy and blessing, neither did she care to know. Occasionally William was able to drive away her spirit of discontent, and throw a ray of sunshine on her heart; but he would rather stay with his father, because they were one in heart and mind, and he could talk with him about that which was dearest to his heart. Thus several years passed.; business was good; the population of the village increased constantly, and our friend was the only blacksmith in that neighborhood, so that all the work was given to him. Then all at once, another blacksmith came and settled down for business in the village of B______ . He was just such a man as the world likes, besides being a skillful workman. Thus it happened that he soon gained the favor of the larger number of the inhabitants. William’s father had not neglected to speak to his customers about their soul’s need and God’s salvation for lost sinners. He had warned the mockers and blasphemers of their terrible course. Many a one was only too glad to show his spite against the pious blacksmith. Darkness hates the light. The truth of this saying our friend had experienced before this, but not quite so painfully as now.

The consequences of the decrease in the earnings were soon noticeable in the little household, and one evening the mother said to her husband in a murmuring mood:

“That’s what you get for your religious talk! Why don’t you let people have their own opinions? Is it your business what people believe, or do not believe? We go farther backward each day and it will not be very long until you will have to close your shop altogether! All that we have laid aside will have to be used up now.”

“My dear wife,” said the blacksmith quietly, “your words tell what is in your heart. If you were not so far from God, you would not talk like that. Do you not know that all things work together for good to those who love God? Do you think God would put us to shame, if we put our trust in Him? This too comes from above. Though we may not know why it is thus; surely, our heavenly Father knows; without His will not one hair falls from our head.”

“Oh, don’t come with your pious words,” interrupted his wife in a rage, “can you pay the rent, which is due in two days with that. There isn’t a penny in the box. Never before have we been behind with the rent, but this time I don’t know where it shall come from.”

“Be still, wife,” admonished the blacksmith, “that also comes from above.”

These words made the poor woman so angry that she ran into the kitchen, scolding and running about like one mad. During this time, father and son knelt down and told their faithful God and Father about their difficulties, asking Him for a way of escape; that the rent had to be paid and that they did not know how to get the money. With a quiet heart, they then laid down for the night’s rest.

On the following morning there was hardly any work at all in the shop. In order to be occupied, William cleaned up, sweeping in every corner, and soon the place looked as cosy as never before. Toward noon the door of the smithery was opened. Father and son looked rather astonished. A woman of the village, who was generally known as an enemy to believers, entered and said: “I must have four stoves, and as the other smith cannot deliver them as early as I wish them to be, I come to you. I cannot wait, and because I have the money on hand, I will pay in advance.”

(To be continued.)

Messages of God’s Love 9/3/1911

The Eagle's Feet

WHAT do you see, children, in the nest on the rock? On a higher rock is a mother eagle, and flying over the very high rocks comes the father eagle. Well, I think I hear you saying there are two baby eagles in the nest. You are right. Now, do you know how these young ones learn to fly? The parent eagle has built the nest of thorny twigs and branches, with some soft comfortable material on top. When the little ones get old enough to learn to fly, the parent stirs up the nest so that the thorns hurt the little ones if they stay there. Of course they do not want to be hurt, so they flutter around to get out and thus learn the use of their wings.

Here is another way. The parent eagle sometimes carries the little ones on his back away up into the air and then lets them drop off. They flop their little wings and try to fly. But they haven’t much strength yet and soon begin to fall. Then the old one swoops down under the little one and catches it on his back again. By doing this over and over again, he teaches them to fly. But remember, he is always right there, ready to help them when their strength gives out. He never lets them fall upon the rocks or into the water.

Young readers, can we learn anything from the eagles? Let us see; God does not want young Christians to settle down in a comfortable nest, and He often causes us to feel the thorns—which are the trials and troubles that come to all of us. When we feel these thorns, it makes us think of God and how we must struggle against Satan who is always tempting us to settle down and be comfortable in this world—to enjoy its pleasures and forget about our loving-Saviour and the joys that await us up there in heaven with Him.

And just as the eagle drops the little ones off his back before they know how to fly, so the Lord often places us where we realize our weakness and danger, but He does not .leave us to fall and be harmed. He is always ready to help us at the right moment.

Then let us remember that God .sends us trials to draw our hearts away from the world, and closer to Him. Yet, in the midst of these trials, He is always near and ready to help.

“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 him.” , (Meaning His people Israel, but true of us as Christians.) Deut. 32:11.

“CALL UPON ME IN THE DAY OF TROUBLE: I WILL DELIVER THEE, AND THOU SHALT GLORIFY ME.” Psa. 50:15.

Messages of God’s Love 9/3/1911

Typical Peasant's Home Madeira

HERE is a home on an island far out in the sea. Do you know where Madeira is? It is one of a group of islands in the Atlantic Ocean near the northwest coast of Africa. Although so far from us, you see the people dress quite as, we do.

If we were on the other side of these buildings, I believe we could see mountains, for Madeira is noted for its beautiful mountains and water sceneries. We woad find it very warm, though, if we visited these people, and would also find their habits and customs very different from ours.

What an odd wagon we see in the picture, and what clumsy creatures take the place of horses! Have you ever seen a heavy wooden yoke such as the one around the necks of these oxen? This yoke keeps the animals walking together, so that one does not stray from the other. I suspect the yoke, with the wagon when it is loaded, will make the animals very weary, at least if they have far to go. Does the bearing of a yoke make you think of a verse in the Bible? Jesus says to you, “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. 11:29. He wants you to come to Him and find what peace of soul and joy of heart He can give. He alone can forgive your sins. Come to Him, dear children, and make Him happy by bearing His yoke and walking with Him. Jesus will not let you stray, if you will but occupy yourself with Him and try to please Him. He says, too: “My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” No greater privilege can you have than to be yoked with such an One and to learn of Him. He will put upon you, then, only such burdens .as will be for your good.

Messages of God’s Love 9/10/1911

All Comes From Above

Chapter 2.

Difficult Paths

(Continued.)

“THAT comes from above,” said the smith and his son at one and the same time. “Nonsense, and nothing else,” retorted the woman, “if I were not in such a hurry, surely, I would not have come to you. What is the price of the stoves?”

The blacksmith mentioned the price and the woman counted the money on the anvil.

When the door had closed after her, father and son bent their knees once more in thanks to God for the wonderful answer to their prayer, after which they began to sing a song of praise and thanksgiving.

The last note had hardly died out when the mother stormed into the shop, heaping bitter reproaches upon her husband and son, thinking they had sung to torment her; she thought they should work rather than sing, so they could pay the rent, etc. When she had become a little more quiet, her husband said to her with great earnestness:

“Dear wife, rebel no longer against God. You know we have never wanted for the necessities of life, and if you quarrel about the rent, then let me tell you that our heavenly Father knows we have to pay it; yea, He has already provided for the prompt payment of it. Look here,” pointing toward the money on the anvil; “here is the rent, and more than that. Should we then not rejoice in our God and sing to Him a song of thanksgiving and praise? O, my dear wife, sin no longer against Him, but go with your evil and rebellious heart to Him. He is ready to forgive you and fill your heart with the same joy that ours possess.”

“Keep your sermons to yourself,” answered his wife, but somewhat dejected. When she had gone out, father and son went to work with much energy, and soon the fire was blazing and the sparks flying. The stoves were promptly delivered to the satisfaction of the customer.

Many more times the faithful confidence of our two friends was visibly rewarded. But as often as the Lord would help (and at times it was in a most remarkable way), the poor mother continued in her course, discontented and ill-humored, thus hardening her heart.

About six months after this the strong and healthy blacksmith became very ill and had to stay in bed, his condition growing worse from day to day. Yet even then his faithful trust was not shaken, and he insisted that even this would work for their good. Although his wife mocked him frequently, and in, spite of the outlook getting darker, he bore his sufferings, with great patience, admonishing William not to cast away-his confidence. His words fell in good ground; and indeed William needed to be encouraged to stand fast for all the trials that were to come. His father grew rapidly worse, and after a short time the strength of the sufferer was so far reduced that he could speak only with difficulty. His last words to ‘William were: “My dear son! You have had many opportunities in these last years to commit your ways unto the Lord. Now as to the future: Cast your burdens on Him. Into the hand of our faithful God and Father, who will never leave you nor forsake you, my son, I commit you with a joyful heart. All good gifts come, as you know, from above, from the Father of lights; and now I go to my blessed Saviour, to praise Him continually. Keep close to the Invisible One, and be a help and stay to your mother. All your needs the Lord will provide.”

Soon after this he fell quietly asleep in Jesus, his Redeemer. As sad as it was for William to see his father depart, and now to be left with a fretful and discontented mother, yet he was able to look up with the eye of faith, and to commit all into the hands of his heavenly Father. Things around him looked indeed dark. The income was very small; besides, William’s frail body was not strong enough for the rough and hard work. His mother grew worse in her sad state; the constant worry about the necessities of life overwhelmed her so much that she became sickly. In spite of all this; William followed in childlike simplicity and trust, the path God had chosen for him, never doubting that all would lead to a blessed end. The unwavering trust, coupled with that tender love with which he served his dying mother day and night, would have put to shame many believers, who under less trying circumstances are often cast down.

Not long after the death of his father, the mother passed away also; but alas! she went out of the world as she had lived in it, without God and without hope. She had no ear for the loving entreaties and admonitions of her son, but had until the end, only hard words for him.

On the day of her burial, an old Christian woman from a neighboring village visited him, having heard of his trying circumstances. When she spoke about the same and asked what he had thought to do, he answered: “I do not know, but I will go the way my God and Father may lead me.”

“I would like to take you to myself, William, but you know I am poor too.”

“I know it,” answered William, “but I will ask the Lord to show me the right path. I am sure He will do it.”

The old lady was glad because of this simple and decided answer, and took leave with a hearty handshake, promising to soon see him again. When on the following day she came in, our young friend met her with the words: “I have asked the Lord to show me His way, and He has led my thoughts again and again to accept your offer. If you are still willing, then I will take what household things I need; you may select what you need, and the rest I will sell. The Lord will show us further what to do.”

The assurance with which William spoke made such an impression upon the aged woman, that without further consideration she gave her consent to the plan. They selected what they needed and the rest of the furniture, as well as the blacksmith tools, William sold, paying the rent and other little bills; then there was quite a little sum left for himself; he then went to live with the kind old lady.

But what now? William had made up his mind not to be burdensome in any way to his kind friend, for the little sum he had on hand would not last long. After due consideration and laying the matter before the Lord, asking for wisdom, he concluded to go daily to the nearby little town to run errands and do other work.

On the following day he had the pleasure of bringing home a little sum he thus. earned. Several months passed by, and William found opportunity from day to day to earn a little money to pay his board, but it often happened that the amount did not suffice for all his needs, and thus all his savings were soon gone. In spite of everything to the contrary, he did not cease to praise the faithfulness of his heavenly Father, so that his motherly friend was often put to shame on account of his childlike confidence and trust in God.

One Saturday, a small part of the board bill was still lacking. He had watched the whole day at the depot to see if he could not earn a little money. Toward evening a train came in, which usually brought quite a number of strangers. William looked around to see if anyone needed his services; just then a gentleman with some baggage came right up to him.

“May I carry your things?” asked William politely.

The man gave him his baggage and after a short walk, he stopped in front of a stately house, took his things and paid him a little more than the usual price.

“That comes from above,” said William.

“What is that you said?” asked the stranger.

“Well,” said William, “I had only expected half of that amount, but my heavenly Father has put into your heart to give me double the amount. That’s why I said: ‘That comes from above.’ “

The man stood still a little while surprised, and said smiling: “You are a peculiar baggage carrier. Here is another piece.”

“That, too, comes from above,” said William, much pleased, “now I can pay for my board.” With these words he turned quickly about, and ran home.

(To be continued.)

Messages of God’s Love 9/10/1911

Only an Act of Kindness

Only an act of kindness

That you little child, may show,

While seeking to please the Saviour,

And more like Himself to grow

Only a feeble effort

To lighten the heavy load

Of some weary wayworn traveler

While wending His toilsome road.

Refrain.—

Only a word for Jesus,

Only a whispered prayer

Seeking His help and blessing,

Is heard by our Lord up there.

Only a glimpse of sunshine

That you, little child, may shed,

To brighten a path of sorrow

Where others may fear to tread.

Only some self-denial,

Attended, perhaps, with pain,

But all that is loss at present

Will some day be richest gain.

Only a word for Jesus

That you, little child, may speak;

A word that will reach some sinner

Whom Jesus once came to seek.

Only a little patience

When somebody does you wrong,

For Jesus will judge offenses,—

Dear child, it will not be long.

Only a little service

While seeking to live for God

Mid darkness and sin and sorrow,

Where Jesus, Himself, once trod.

Only a little waiting

Dear child, let your light shine bright,

For Jesus will come and take you

To glory and love and light.

Messages of God’s Love 9/10/1911

The Call

DEAR reader, please notice carefully our picture today. Do you think something has attracted the attention of these cows? All but one seem to be looking in the same direction.

Look again. Do you notice any difference in the five that are looking? Do not three of them seem much more interested than the other two? They hold their heads higher and seem wider awake. The other two are looking, in a lazy, indifferent sort of way.

Let me tell you what this makes me think of. Sometimes our attention is attracted by a call from God. He may speak to us through His word, or through a tract or Sunday-school paper. Or it may be through some person—one of His laboring servants, or a friend.

When we hear such a call, we should listen carefully and hear what God has to say. Not only that, dear reader, but when we hear we should heed.

Sometimes, God calls to those who do not know Him. Sometimes He calls to those who do know Him.

What is the first call? It is expressed in different ways such as the following:

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

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

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 2 Tim. 1:15.

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

Dear reader, have you heeded this call? Have you come to Christ in your worthlessness and helplessness and accepted the free gift of salvation? If not, do not delay. Another day—yes, another hour may usher you into eternity. If you neglect this opportunity, you may never have another.

If you have heeded the call to the lost sinner and have found Christ as your Saviour, are you now listening for other calls? If you read and study God’s word and hear it explained by others, you will find many a call to you as a Christian, such calls as these:

“Search the Scriptures.” John 5:39. “Meditate upon these things.” 1 Tim. 4:15.

“Pray without ceasing.” 1 Thess. 5:17. “In everything give thanks.” 1 Thess. 5:18.

“By love serve one another.” Gal. 5:13. “Children, obey your parents in all things.” Colossians 3:20.

“Be not wise in your own conceits.” Romans 12:16.

“Love not the world.” 1 John 2:15.

These are only a few—a very few, of the many, many calls that fill God’s blessed word. Do not be half-hearted and listless about them, like the two cows that raised their heads only a little way.

Listen earnestly, and respond quickly, willingly and heartily to all that the Lord would have you do. By so-doing you will lay up treasure in heaven—treasure that will give you untold joy through all eternity.

“MY SON ATTEND TO MY WORDS; INCLINE THINE EAR UNTO MY SAYINGS.” Prov. 4:20.

Messages of God’s Love 9/17/1911

The Tongue

“If thou wishest to be wise,

Keep this truth before thine eyes:

What thou speak’st, and how, beware;

Of whom, to whom, when, and where.”

Messages of God’s Love 9/17/1911

All Comes from Above

Chapter 3.
New Experiences

(Continued.)

MEANWHILE autumn had come and the income of William grew still smaller. The poor widow would not listen to William’s suggestion to leave her. She was thankful to the Lord for sending him to encourage and comfort her own heart, for she considered him no longer as a stranger, but loved him as though he were her own son, whom God had given her in her old age. Therefore she never murmured when William’s earnings were small; she was willing to bear all with him, whatever God in wisdom and love would choose to send.

William returned this kindness with childlike love, and thanked the Lord daily that He had given him, a lonely orphan, such a peaceful home. He never doubted that God would supply their need and keep them from starving. One day during a time when the earnings had been very meagre, he asked a richly dressed lady if she had any work for him, it did not matter what, only so that he could earn a little money.

The lady looked at him at first rather surprised, but when she saw the honest, open face of the youth, she said: “I am sorry that I am not able to help you at present, but give me your address, and as soon as I need you, I shall send for you. Here is a little, take it.”

A few weeks passed by, during which they experienced God’s tender care for His own, and also learned to be content with the things they had, remembering that He would never leave them nor forsake them. But one day William received word to call on the lady he had met.

As she was a lady of abundant means, she had invested her money in stocks and bonds, and had received a letter from her agent in the nearby city, advising her to sell certain bonds and buy those of another kind, which were of a promising nature. William was to deliver the package containing the papers before 5 o’clock that afternoon. Time was short, and much depended upon the fleetness of his feet. The lady was very anxious that William should get to the place in time. He went on his errand, and choosing the shortest way, he went through a large meadow, which was crossed by a deep ditch, that William had jumped over many times before. He went along merrily, being glad of the opportunity given him to earn a little. As he came near the ditch, he took the papers in one hand and then leaped over it, but as his feet struck the other side, the ground loosened, and he fell backwards into the water, though managed to hold the hand with the papers above the water, but he himself was wet to the skin. It was impossible for him to continue his errand on account of the cool autumn wind. At first he was rather upset about the matter, for what would Mrs. F. say about it? But the next minute he said to himself: “If the Lord allows everything, then this has surely not happened by chance.”

From a neighboring farmhouse the accident had been noticed, and the owner himself hastening to the scene, invited William to his house to dry his clothes. The invitation was gratefully accepted, and when they arrived at the house, the peasant’s wife had some clothes ready for William to put on while his own would dry, meanwhile refreshing himself with a warm drink, which the kind hostess prepared for him. But when they began to pity him, he said: “Never mind, everything comes from above; my accident, as well as your kind help.”

As soon as his clothes had dried, William left the house, thanking them heartily for their kindness and began to retrace his steps. It had by this time become too late to go to the City of R. Our young friend did not return as briskly as he had gone, for although he was not to blame for the accident, yet he felt sorry for not being able to deliver the message and package. But he comforted himself with the assurance that nothing happens without the will of God. When he handed the package to the much surprised lady, truthfully telling her all that had happened, she reproved him sharply because of his carelessness, and said, she would never get him to go another errand. William listened quietly for a while and then said: “But, Mrs. F., you have told me you are a child of God; then you ought to know that nothing can happen to us without our heavenly Father’s will.”

“Indeed, and are you going to reprove me?” said Mrs. F., angrily. “Why did you go by way of the meadows instead of keeping to the road? As a child of God you should have made no such blunder. Do you know that you have been the cause of a great loss to me? Perhaps I have lost thousands, because Mr. K. should have sold these papers at the exchange. Now go, and never come into my presence again.”

“I will do so, Mrs. F.”, said William quietly, “but please consider that I went by way of the meadows only to gain time, and also remember that God has said, ‘The silver is Mine and the gold is Mine.’ Whether you lose or gain, all must come from above.” With these words he left the room, firmly convinced that he had spoken the truth.

In the evening of the same day, the man-servant of Mrs. F. came to the house of the widow, inquiring if William was at home.

“No, sir! he has gone to look for work,” was the answer.

“I am sorry,” said the servant, “for Mrs. F. sent me to ask William if he could come to see her to-night, she must see him about some business.”

“Very well,” said the old lady, “as soon as he comes home I shall tell him. But I cannot tell where he may be found.”

Quite late in the evening our young friend returned. He seemed to be quite happy, for he was singing with all his heart. On his way home, he had met the servant, who had taken him immediately to Mrs. F. When he entered her room, she said, with tears filling her eyes: “I am deeply ashamed, my young friend, for it was really the guidance of God that you fell into the creek. As I see now by reports from the newspapers, it would have been a great loss to me if I had exchanged these papers for the others, as I wished to do. I am very sorry I treated you as I did. Will you please receive this as a recompense for the wrong I did you IP,” With these words she handed him a sum of money—more than he had seen for many days. When William left, thanking her for the same, she said: “The Lord be with you in all your ways.”

We need not mention that on this night two happy hearts united in thanksgiving and praise to the Lord for His goodness toward them.

(To be continued.)

Messages of God’s Love 9/17/1911

Rose and Bouquet

THE pious and gifted Dutch poet, DaCosta, who died many years ago, announced one day a lecture against the learned German infidel, David Strauss, (which means in English, David Bouquet) whose book “The Life of Jesus” had just appeared and had made a powerful impression everywhere. In this book the author tried to explain away the miracles of the Lord Jesus in a natural way, seeing in the Son of God only a man, though an extraordinarily good man.

The hall was filled with friends and enemies of the Gospel, and the lecture was awaited with the keenest attention.

DaCosta mounted the platform Bible in hand. He read Acts 12:13-15, and preached a striking sermon on the “Rose of Jerusalem,” meaning the pious little maid Rhoda, who was so overjoyed about the deliverance of the Apostle Peter from prison and out of the cruel hands of King Herod, that she forgot to open the door, so that Peter was obliged to knock repeatedly before he gained an entrance. In all the lecture, not a word was uttered of Strauss and his “Life of Jesus.” This naturally astonished the hearers at first, but soon they thought nothing more of it; the glow of DaCosta’s eloquence gripped them so completely, that they could think of nothing else than the person of the blessed Lord, who had worked in that little maid, and kindled in her heart a fire of holy love. The speaker at last came to an end. Every look hung on his lips. Once more he looked around him, smiling and said:

“And now, my friends, one single believing Rose, like Rhoda in the Bible, is more valuable than the whole infidel Bouquet.” With that he closed his Bible, and the lecture against David Strauss was finished. Deeply impressed the audience went home. A single smooth stone out of the brook, thrown with the sling of faith, had once more proved mightier than the whole armory of the giant “Unbelief.”

“Speak none but kind words to-day, lest it should be the last day you have to live.”

“Keep thy tongue from evil, and thy Iips from speaking guile.

Depart from evil, and do good; seek peace, and pursue it.” Psa. 34:13, 14.

Messages of God’s Love 9/17/1911

Reaping

IS there any season of the year grander than Autumn when man is reaping all the fruits and grains that Nature has produced!

Before us is the picture of a man with a well loaded wagon as the result of his labor, hauling the grain to market. Behind him is his field of grain; how thrifty everything looks! It has meant much hard work for this farmer to realize this moment of contentment; he has spent many hours of labor in the hot sun, I am sure. In the first place he had to be careful just what grain and seeds he planted; for he knew that he would reap in the fall just such kinds as he planted. You will find it so in your garden. this spring.

You make sure your seeds are fresh, and then you know that the life and growth of your vegetables and flowers depends upon your care of them.

Can you draw a lesson from this for your own heart and life? If you live recklessly now while you are young, do you think you will grow to be useful, and develop into a noble man or woman?

It is sad to hear young people say, and doubly so those that know Christ, that they must “sow their wild oats some time.” For God’s word is true; it gives us the warning, that, “Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he, also reap.” , The boy or girl who lives as he pleases, regardless of his parents’ instructions or of God’s thoughts, is sure to reap sad results.

But, on the other hand, the one who lives thoughtfully from day to day as before the Lord will be happy in meeting Him. Accept Jesus as your Saviour while you are young, and then seek daily to bear fruit for Him. Even a cup of cold water given in the name of Jesus, because we love Him, is counted as fruit for Him. Are you planting good seeds, such that will bring forth a useful Christian life?

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

Messages of God’s Love 9/24/1911

All Comes From Above

Chapter 4.
Unexpected Help.

THE money which William had received from Mrs. F. lasted quite a while to keep up the little household, so that the severe winter passed by without great cares to our friends, although the young man had found very little to do. They had experienced anew that all blessings come from above.

Springtime brought more work. One day, William was hired by an old-fashioned looking gentleman to take several heavy packages to his residence. When the work had been done, our friend received a very small sum of money for his services. William looked at the piece of money for awhile, and then looking the old gentleman straight in his eyes, he said: “That comes from above.”

“What do you mean by that?” asked the old gentleman.

“This is as little as anyone has ever offered me before,” said William, “and I think my heavenly Father has allowed it to be as little, so that I might learn something by it.”

Ashamed of himself, the old man cast his eyes downward, and giving him another piece, said: “I must know more about you; come to me in the morning. I want to talk with you.”

The following morning William went to the home of his new acquaintance. A servant brought him to the owner of the mansion, who received him with these words: “I am glad you have come, my young friend; your open manner has pleased me; but I would like to know if you take everything from the hand of God, and then, how did you come to have these views?”

William related in simple words how he had, when quite young, come to know his lost condition before God and how he had found the Lord Jesus as his Saviour, and how through Him he was able to approach God and put his confidence in Him, knowing Him as his Father, who has given him so many precious promises in His word, saying that He would never leave him nor forsake him, and that all things work together for good to them that love God. He also related to the old gentleman what a rough path he had had, but likewise the happy experiences he and his kind motherly friend had gone through amidst all the difficulties.

The gentleman listened with great attention, and after asking several other questions, said: “Well, young man, I am not as pious as you are, hut I believe people like you are happy—perhaps happier than I am,” he added slowly. “Well, now, I have kept you quite a while from your occupation. I must give you a little for your time spent with me. Here, take this, giving him a large piece of money, “it will be enough for today for you and your kind old friend.”

“And for tomorrow, too,” added William, thanking him heartily.

“You are welcome,” said Mr. von H., “come again day after tomorrow, about 11 o’clock in the morning; I may have a situation for you.”

Two days after this, William called again at the mansion, at the appointed time, and was led into the private office of his new acquaintance, who rose to greet him, and putting his hand upon his shoulder, said: “William, sit down, I want to tell you something. During the last two days I have inquired about you and found you have spoken the truth. I am in need of a young man to do odd jobs around the house and run errands. The young man who just left the room is going away this week. If you wish, you may have his place. You shall have a pretty suit and are to live here in my house. At present I shall pay you 30 marks monthly. Go home now and think about my proposition; by tomorrow morning I expect an answer.”

“Mr. von H.” answered William “before coming this morning, I prayed God to give me the situation of which you spoke; I need not consider it, but accept your offer with many thanks. Yet one thing I would like to ask: What shall become of my dear friend and mother who has been so kind to me?”

“Well said!” responded Mr. von H., “I thought about that too, she shall be taken care of also.”

With a joyful heart William took leave, returning to the village for the last time, wearing his rather shabby looking suit. The old widow listened with great astonishment to William’s narration, and then both sang a little song of thanks and praise to the Giver of all good.

(To be continued.)

Messages of God’s Love 9/24/1911

Bible History

Deuteronomy 31-34. Chapter 69.

The Death of Moses

MOSES was now one hundred and twenty years old, and the time of his death was at hand. He therefore called the children of Israel together to speak to them once more. When they were assembled, he said to them: I am one hundred and twenty years old today and can no more go in and out. Also the Lord has told me I should not go over Jordan, but the Lord Himself shall go with you and destroy those nations from before you, and Joshua shall lead you as the Lord has said. Therefore be strong and of rood courage, and be not afraid of them, for the Lord will not fail nor forsake you. To Joshua also Moses gave words of comfort and encouragement. Then he gave to the priests which bore the ark, and to the elders, the law he had written, and commanded them to read it before all Israel, men, women and children, and the strangers dwelling with them, that they might learn and fear the Lord, and that the children, who had not seen what God had done for them might hear, and learn to fear the Lord their God as long as they lived. Moses had been with them long enough to know the forgetfulness of their hearts, and that only the constant reading of God’s word could teach them to fear Him. Our hearts are not different from theirs, and the reading of the scriptures, whether at home, or in Sunday-school, or in public meetings, is the only way we have of learning His will, His way, (the only way) of salvation. What a risk we run in neglecting it! We cannot say, “I did not know,” for we are responsible to know, and in this land of Bibles, everybody may know if he wishes. The parents were, to bring their children where they could hear God’s word read, and this solemn duty is the same today as then, for if parents do not teach their children the way of salvation, how can • they expect them to be saved?

Then God commanded Moses to bring Joshua to the door of the tabernacle where He appeared in a pillar of cloud, and He said to Moses; After thy death the people will forsake Me for other gods, and I shall be angry with them, and will hide My face from them, and allow evil and troubles to come upon them, and they will say, God is not with us. So, as a witness for Me against them, write a song and teach it to them, that they may not forget it. So Moses did as God commanded him and wrote this beautiful song which you may all read in the 32nd chapter of Deuteronomy in which he recounts His loving ways with them from the first. He had made them His people, kept them as the apple of His eye, led them, fed them with the very best, butter of kine, milk of sheep, fat of rams, and for a drink, the juice of grapes. But oh, what returns from His people! Instead of being thankful they esteemed lightly the Rock of their salvation, they provoked Him to jealousy, they sacrificed to gods which they knew not, unmindful of the Rock who begat them; therefore He would send upon them hunger, and burning heat and bitter destruction. Were it not because of the wrath of their enemies, He would scatter them into corners, and make the remembrance of them to cease from among them! But no! He could not, for He loved them and yearned over them. Oh! that they were wise, that they understood this, that they would consider their latter end. As to their enemies, He would avenge His people of them when lie comes in judgment. (This time has not yet come, but will when Israel, now scattered, shall have returned to their land, when after much trouble and sorrow, they will return to the Lord, owning their sin and need.) The song ends with these sweet words: “Rejoice, 0 ye nations, with His people; for He will avenge the blood of His servants, and will render vengeance to His adversaries, and will be merciful unto His land, and to His people.”

Moses spoke this song to the children of Israel, urging them to obey God’s words, for it would be life to them, and would prolong their days in the promised land. Then after blessing them, he went up from the plains of Moab, unto the mountain of Nebo, to the top of Mount Pisgah. There the Lord showed him all the land of Canaan, saying to him, This is the land which I sware to Abraham, to Isaac and to Jacob, saying, I will give it unto thy seed. I have caused thee to see it with thine eyes, but thou shalt not go over thither. We all remember the reason why, and it may well make our hearts fear when we think of it. Truly

“God is a consuming fire,” and it is a fearful thing to fall into His hands; and if this dear, faithful servant of the Lord had to be so dealt with for one act of disobedience, how about us? If we are God’s children by faith in Christ Jesus, we are responsible to obey Him as a child his father, and may expect chastening if we do not. He tells us that when we are judged, we are chastened of the Lord, that we should not be condemned with the world. 1 Cor. 11. Again in Heb. 13, we are told that whom the Lord loves, He chastens, and if we are without chastisement, (or correction) we are not sons. So it is a proof of His love. As for those who are not the Lord’s, their judgment will come later, (most terrible doom, to be cast into the lake of fire with the devil and his angels!)

When Moses had seen the land of Canaan, he died there according to the word of the Lord, who buried him in a valley, in the land of Moab, but no one knows where his sepulchre is to this day.

At one hundred and twenty years of age, his eyes were not dim, nor his natural strength gone. The people wept for him, and Joshua, the son of Nun became the leader of the children of Israel as God had commanded. He was full of wisdom, for God gave it to him, and the children of Israel obeyed him.

There has never been a prophet like Moses, one whom the Lord spoke with face to face as with a friend, one who did so many wonders as he did in the land of Egypt, as well as in the wilderness in the sight of all Israel.

Art thou waiting till the morrow?

Thou may’st never see its light;

Come at once! accept His mercy;

He is waiting—come tonight.

Messages of God’s Love 9/24/1911

Bible Questions for October

Answers to Bible Questions for August

“But God forbid.” Gal. 6:14.

“Christ hath redeemed us.” “ 3:13.

“Knowing that a man,” etc. “ 2:16.

“I am crucified with,” etc. “ 2:20.

“Who gave Himself,” etc. “ 1:4.

“But the fruit of the,” etc. “ 5:22.

“For as many as are,” etc. “ 3:10.

Bible Questions for October

The answers are to be found in the epistles to the Philippians and Colossians.

Write the verse containing the words, “Murmurings.” “Disputings”.

Write the verse containing the words, “This is well pleasing”..

Write the verse containing the words, “By Him and for Him.”

Write the verse containing the words, “Will perform it”.

Write the verse containing the words, “Put off all these”.

Write the verse containing the words, “Put on therefore”.

Write the verse containing the words, “To die is gain”.

Messages of God’s Love 10/1/1911

Drifting

IN our picture this week we see the two men in their canoe gliding on the running stream, and able to guide themselves where they want to go, but I would like to tell you about a boat that was sent adrift. Does someone say what is it to be adrift? I will try and explain it to you, because this drifting often ends in shipwreck. I read of a boy who lay down in an open boat to read by the sea-shore. His companions saw him go, and when the tide had risen, and the boat was afloat, they quietly cut her loose, and let her drift away upon the waves. They did it “just for fun,” and meant no harm; but it was a very naughty act. When, at last, he did get up and look around him, he was far out on the heaving waters—too far for anyone to see him, or to hear his cries for help. There were no oars in the boat, and no sails. He could do nothing to help himself; he could only sit and watch the shore, fading away from his view as the shades of night sank down upon the wide, dark sea. How desolate he must have felt as, cold and hungry, he saw the far-off lights, and knew that there he had a home, with light and warmth and food and loving hearts within it! How his heart must have ached as he saw the gleaming lights grow dimmer, and knew that he was drifting farther and farther out into the perils and darkness of the rolling, restless ocean! And when the morning dawned, he looked in vain for land; he did not even know in which direction it lay; nor could he possibly have found his own way back to it had he had the strength to do so. He was adrift, and lost.

Perhaps I am writing to some poor drifting soul that once was happy in the home of God’s light and favor; and, through carelessness perhaps, you have laid yourself down to rest, and have drifted silently, but surely, away from the enjoyment of your father’s love and care. You hardly know how the separation began; it was so very little at first. But now you may have been roused up to find yourself desolate and alone. You may feel you cannot help yourself and do not know where to turn or what to do. You cry out, but there seems no answer. You are like the poor drifting boy. Did he ever get back? Yes, he did; or, rather, he was taken back; for, through the great mercy of God, after he had floated about for two or three days, the captain of a passing vessel caught sight of the open boat, found the perishing lad within it, warmed and clothed and fed him, and bore him back in safety to his home. And how are you to get home again? Just in the same way. There is Some One seeking you—the Lord Jesus. He might use these feeble words to reach your drifting soul. Trust Him. He died—”the just for the unjust to bring us to God.” Rely on Him to do it; He will not fail you,.

“HIM THAT COMETH TO ME I WILL IN NO WISE CAST OUT.” John 6:37.

Messages of God’s Love 10/1/1911

All Comes From Above

Chapter 5. Part 1.

A Peaceful End.

THUS our friend became the faithful servant of Mr. von H., who saw to it that the poor widow was not wanting for anything. The diligence and ambition, with which William served his master was in great contrast to the careless way of the other servants. Mr. von H. was not married, but lived in a large mansion, the care of which required many hands. As soon as our young friend entered his house, there came a change. He did not complain about his fellow-servants; such a course his honest nature would not stoop to, but he told them his thoughts openly and faithfully about their dishonesty and carelessness, to that they soon began to avoid him and hate him. But William went quietly on, serving his master from the heart, remembering the exhortation, “Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ; not with eye-service, as men-pleasers; but as the servants of Christ.” Eph. 6:5, 6.

And because of his faithfulness and fear of God, he soon gained the full confidence of his master, and, although himself unaware of the fact, a gradual change came over the man. While before he had been quite indifferent as to God’s things, he now very often sat down with his servant to talk about things needful for a guilty sinner.

Several years rolled by, during which William had grown into manhood. Then quite suddenly Mr. von H. became sick, and his condition soon grew serious. Night and day he had to be waited upon. William, and a trained male nurse took turns in this service, and although his master’s death would mean the loss of his position, yet it did not disturb him at all. The other servants often made spiteful and wicked remarks on this point, but William’s answer was as ever: “All comes from above!” Their rnockings did not trouble him; he comforted himself with the words of the Lord: “Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on. The life is more than meat, and the body is more than raiment.”

One day, when William’s turn had come to wait on the sick man, he said to him: “William, sit down close to me, I have something to say.”

William obeyed, and the sick man commenced: “Do you think, William, God still loves me, after having spent all of my life for myself and have never thought of Him?”

When William heard these words, he said with a heart full of joy. “O, Mr. von H., that comes from above. Such a question is not of yourself, for the word of God teaches us: ‘There is none that seeketh after God,’ and since you put the question to me, I can tell you happily: Yes, God loves you, for ‘God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life.’ You belong to the world. While you were thinking very little or not at all about Him, He was thinking of you, and His thoughts are thoughts of love and peace. You may fully trust Him and come to Him just as you are, for His word says: ‘God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.’ “

“But, William,” responded Mr. von H., “you have believed from your earliest childhood in Him, and are therefore in God’s eyes much better than I am, as I am just commencing to value His word, to listen to it. O, William, I shall soon die and where will I go? I see what a great sinner I am, and now it is too late.”

“No, no,” said William quickly, “it is not too late. You are still in the ‘Today’ of God’s grace. God has opened your eyes, that through faith in Jesus you may find a refuge in Him. You may yet be saved if you come simply to Jesus and believe in Him who died for sinners.”

(To be continued.)

Messages of God’s Love 10/1/1911

The Law Suit Gained

IT was in a 3rd class compartment of a railway carriage on the way between Posen and Krenz in the year 1897, when a well-dressed man began to tell an older traveler, who had just joined the train, that he had been very unfortunate, for he had been left a splendid estate with a beautiful mansion, but the possession of it had been disputed by some envious relatives raising a law suit against him. The judgment prevented him from taking possession of his inheritance, so that he was now poor instead of rich. He had no means to proceed with the law suit, so that he would lose his precious inheritance.

The person addressed, replied kindly, “Oh, I understand your sorrow very well, for I found myself some years ago exactly in your position. I had left me a splendid mansion it lay in a city, beautiful beyond description, on a pure, mighty river. But a cunning enemy, prevented me from entering into possession of it. He started a law suit against me in the highest court. He claimed that according to my birth the inheritance was not mine, and he proved it by my life. But I found a powerful Friend who undertook my case Himself. This friend proved before the Judge, that through a genuine will, I had a perfect title to the estate, and that according to the will of the deceased, I was to take possession of my inheritance and enjoy myself with it.”

The depressed man with the hopeless law suit listened, and then asked for further particulars. “The splendid mansion”, replied the older man, “the precious inheritance is in heaven; the great enemy who wished to deprive me of my possessions, is Satan. He asserted before God that I was born in sin, that as an enemy of God, I was incapable of gaining an inheritance in heaven. My whole life, with its unnumbered sins, offered the proofs that I had no part in the inheritance of the children of God. But Jesus took my case into His own hands. He procured for me an eternal, lawful testimonial, that in spite of my unlikely state, my many failures, and my low position, I belonged to the family of God. He showed before God, by His blood, that He had taken my sins on Himself on Calvary’s Cross. He answered all the charges against my past life, and He won my case. He washed me from all my sins and clothed me in the garments of salvation. Through faith in Him, I am born again, born of God—a child and heir of God. It is true I am not yet in possession of my inheritance, but it has been made completely secure for me. Jesus has gained it, and God preserves it up there in heaven for me, and in order that I should have an earnest of it, God has given me His Holy Spirit. So I go on my way happy and trustful, and rejoice that the moment is not tar off, when I shall enter my undisputed and undefiled inheritance up above.

There sprang up a light in the dejected and unhappy man, that a higher and more precious inheritance than the earthly one he had lost, lay ready for him, that Jesus the mighty Saviour has come to redeem for him this eternal inheritance.

“An inheritance incorruptible, undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation.” 1 Pet. 1:4, 5.

Messages of God’s Love 10/1/1911

Wandering Arabs

SEE how dry and barren looking the part of the earth which our picture today shows. There are no trees no grass, and no water to be seen. This country is Arabia and the inhabitants are called Arabs. You see some of them on their horses.

Do you know why they are called wandering Arabs? It is because they move about so much. A great part of Arabia is desert land where nothing grows. Many of the people live in tents which they move from place to place according to the seasons. In summer they seek the cooler places.

They take their horses, camels, tents, and all their possessions with them, for they have no home.

Dear readers, one is reminded by these wandering people, of the condition of poor lost sinners. They are seeking one thing and another to satisfy the heart, often going from city to city, and from country to country, in the hope of finding something better.

But this world’s goods give only momentary satisfaction. There is always a restless longing for more. Yet there is one thing that can satisfy the heart. Can you tell me what it is? It is the knowledge of Jesus, and the wonderful salvation He gives to all who will receive Him. In Him we find everything, and when this life is over, and we are with Him forever, we will be perfectly happy.

To the Christian, too, this world is like a vast desert. But, unlike the unsaved, he is not seeking to find in such a place his pleasure and happiness. He is looking forward to his heavenly home and does not need a mansion down here to be happy. He moves along as the Lord leads him, and pitches his tent night by night, “A day’s march nearer home.”

“Here we have no continuing city, but we seek one to come.” Hebrews 13:14.

“IF YE THEN BE RISEN WITH CHRIST, SEEK THOSE THINGS WHICH ARE ABOVE, WHERE CHRIST SITTETH ON THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD.” Col. 3:1.

Messages of God’s Love 10/8/1911

All Comes From Above

Chapter 5. Part 2.
A Peaceful End.

The sick one seemed to be tired out from the conversation, and William, noticing it, said: “Mr. von H., you had better rest now a little, we can talk another time about this matter.”

But he would not listen to that, because, he said, his end was near, “And how awful would it be if I should be called away without having found peace with God. No, I cannot and I dare not rest,” he added.

William was deeply touched, asking the Lord in quietness to give him the right words for his dying master. In great tenderness and love, he then said: “God is able to give you both rest for soul and body. Will we not ask Him for it together?”

With tears in his eyes the sick man nodded. Then William knelt down, taking hold of his master’s withered hand, and talked simply and trustingly with his God and Father for the salvation of the dying man’s soul, so that the old man began to cry and sob. Even before William could say Amen, he said aloud: “Yes, O God, now I believe that Thou lovedst me!”

Then the tears began to flow freely—tears of true repentance and tears caused by the sense of God’s grace. William rose from his knees, retiring a little respectfully, to leave his master alone with the Lord and that he himself might turn to Him to thank Him for this remarkable answer to his prayers.

For a long time Mr. von M. laid there quietly, his hands over his breast, only his lips moving in prayer; finally falling into a refreshing sleep, which he had not enjoyed for weeks. Thus God had given the sick man rest for soul and body.

It was towards evening when the patient awoke again, and when he saw his faithful servant, a beam of joy came over his pale face. He asked for a drink of water, and when William brought it, he said with much feeling.”

“Was it that I might know the love and mercy of God, I took you into my service, my dear William? Oh, how gracious, He is; truly, that comes from above! With all my heart I can say this now with you.”

A few days after this, he felt his end coming. Once more he took William’s hand, saying with a weak, but plain voice: “I am now going to the joys above, my dear friend. The God who has brought us together that I might learn to know Him as my Father in Christ, will never leave you nor forsake you and may He cause you to be a blessing to many. Above we will see each oilier again with all those that love His appearing; then will we praise Him together continually. Farewell.”

With that he gave his hand to all his relatives and servants who were present, laid his head back into the pillows and in a few moments passed away so quietly that those present did not realize it. That was indeed not dying, but a going home, a peaceful going to sleep to awake in His likeness.

According to the wish of the deceased, the funeral was performed without any pomp or show. Soon after, one of the nephews of the deceased took the necessary legal steps to settle the estate. The servants were each told to look for another situation, as the house would be closed soon. When the housekeeper heard this, she could not refrain from saying to William: “Now has your good life come to an end. You may now search for another place, but I will see to it that it will be known all over the town how you upset our good master’s mind with your pious talk.”

William was too happy and thankful toward God for His faithfulness and grace, to answer the envious mocker. He went as ever quietly on his way, faithfully doing his work.

A few days after the funeral, a gentleman came to the door, handing his card, which William gave to the nephew of the deceased. He was led into the parlors of the mansion. The stranger desired that all relatives and servants be present, which assembled, wondering what was going to happen.

The stranger arose finally and declared himself to be the notary public, into whose hands the execution of the last will of the deceased had been committed. Breaking the seal of the same, he began to read the usual legal introductory remarks of the document. When he came to that portion which contained the testament proper, all were in great suspense. The first clause read as follows:

“My mansion and half of my cash possessions, I bequeath to my faithful servant William D . . . .”

All eyes rested on our young friend, who himself did not realize fully what had happened. But when the lawyer went up to him, extending his hand in congratulation to the large and unexpected inheritance, the look of astonishment changed to looks of envy and hatred; but they could not change the fact. William had all of a sudden become a rich man. After the first’ recovery from his astonishment, he exclaimed with deep feeling: “That comes from above!”

The notary continued to read the remainder of the testament. All the servants were remembered by the deceased with smaller sums, while the rest of the possessions was willed to the relatives.

When the ordeal was over, William hastened to his dear old friend, to tell her the wonderful news. She became quite excited about it and thought William would have nothing to do with her now; but he closed her into his arms and said: “No, my dear little mother, you come with me into my new dwelling. What should I do without you?”

And so it came to pass; in quietness and peace, surrounded by every comfort, the poor widow spent her last days with her adopted son. She was happy, and had reason to be so, for the love and kindness she had shown to William in dark days, were repaid her with interest. William did not become proud because of his good fortune; no, the Lord gave him simplicity and humility, grace and love, to serve Him unto the end, as he had done when in poor and trying circumstances. According to the desires of his heart, he spent his time in preaching the gospel of God’s grace, the glad tidings of God’s salvation, and many were through him brought to the Lord, and many children of God were encouraged by his ever joyful spirit and never wavering trust in God. In the sitting room of his home, he had a poem hung up, which expressed their gratitude and love toward the Giver of all good, but the prominent thought was this:

“All comes from above.”

Messages of God’s Love 10/8/1911

Bible History

Joshua 1-2. Chapter 70. Part 1
Rahab

AFTER the death of Moses, the Lord told Joshua not to fear, that He would be with him, that he, Joshua, should bring the people over the river Jordan into the land God gave them, as He had promised. They would have to fight for it, it is true, but God would be with them, and every place the sole of their feet trod upon, would be theirs. God also promised Joshua that all the days of his life, no one would be able to stand before him “Only be thou strong and courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law which Moses, My servant, commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest. This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein; for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. . . . Be not afraid . . . . for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.”

We see that the one thing God wanted of His people was obedience. He had given them His holy law that they might know His will, and they were to study it and do according to it. And it has been written for our learning that we, too, might study God’s word and by it learn obedience. The Lord does not expect from children, wonderful deeds or great wisdom, but He does want obedience, which pleases Him better than sacrifice.

Then Joshua commanded the officers to pass through the host and tell the people to prepare food, for within three days they would cross the Jordan, and take possession of the land. He reminded the Reubenites, the Gadites and half the tribe of Manasseh that they were to go and help their brethren fight as they had promised Moses they would, when he allowed them to settle in the land of Gilead. They were willing to go and promised obedience.

After this, Joshua sent two men to spy secretly the land around Jericho. They went and entered the house of a woman named Rahab and stayed there. Very soon after, the king of Jericho heard that two Israelites were come as spies, and he sent to Rahab and told her to bring out the men. But Rahab took them, and hid them in the house, and told the messengers that the men were gone, she knew not where, and to pursue after them auicklv in order to overtake them.

Messages of God’s Love 10/8/1911

Two Sayings of the Lord Jesus

“I have come” the Saviour said—

“Come from heaven the living bread,

Come the Father’s love to tell,

Come to save from death and hell.”

Yes! He came, the Lord from heaven,

Came that we might be forgiven;

On the cross His work was done

Then ascended to the throne.

“I will come” is now the word

the risen, glorious Lord—

“I will come to take away

All My own, to realms of clay.”

Happy moment for each one,

Who believes on God’s dear Son;

Sad for each then left behind,

Only punishment to find.

Messages of God’s Love 10/8/1911

Tents and Natives, Algeria, Africa

WHAT would you think of calling such a place as this your home? No grass nor trees are near, and everything looks so dry and hot for miles away. See the children on the ground near the tent, and the parents nearby. We surely would find this a very uncomfortable way of living.

We often forget our many blessings until we stop and think about the many people who have no comforts such as we. We not only have better homes, food and. clothing than these people, but we have the opportunity of knowing God and His Son, Jesus. This family in our picture are probably Mohammedans and have not heard the gospel over and over again as you have. You cannot thank the Lord enough that you are not one of these little Moorish children away in Northern Africa. Have you profited from your many blessings? Have you accepted the gospel as you have heard it preached? It is a most solemn thing if you have not. God will hold you far more responsible than these people of Algeria, if you have not accepted Jesus when He has been offered to you time and again. He loves you and besides giving you so many good things to enjoy down here in a temporal way, He gave Himself for you, that you might be happy through all eternity. Nor can you be truly happy in this life, till you know your sins forgiven. Without Jesus, your soul is just as barren and your hearts just as empty and void as these people before us.

“Be it known unto you, therefore, men and brethren that through this Man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins.” Acts 13:38.

“HE THAT BEING OFTEN REPROVED HARDENETH HIS NECK, SHALL SUDDENLY BE DESTROYED, AND THAT WITHOUT REMEDY.” Prov. 29:1.

Messages of God’s Love 10/15/1911

Treasures in the Earth

Part 1

THERE are many and varied treasures in the earth, of which a twin-pair is in my mind, and about which I would like to say a few things. These two kinds of treasures are classed among the stones, and very closely related to each other, but in appearance widely different. While one is so dirty that you cannot touch it without soiling your hands, the other is so beautiful and clear that it shines like the very sunlight. One is put in dark cellars, and treated quite roughly, but the other is found only in the homes of the wealthy, being worn by them on their fingers and otherwise, while some of the best specimens are beautifying the crowns of kings and princes. And yet I don’t know but what the black and homely one is the most useful, if not most valuable.

You may have guessed what the names of the twin-pair of stones are, but if not, I will keep you no longer in suspense: they are the hard coal and the diamond.

You may smile at this and think I call them twins because they have the same Creator—God, and the same mother—earth, and therefore we might call all stones and other things brothers and sisters, and, besides, there is such a difference between hard coal and the diamond, as much as day and night. Quite so, and yet they are twins. Chemistry teaches us that the diamond is in its nature nothing but coal, and can, just like coal, burn, although a far greater heat is necessary, for it burns at the tremendous heat of 800 degrees Reaumur, or ten times the heat of boiling water.

It cost King Francis 6000 florins to find this out, while attempting to melt several small stones into one. Let us then consider first the more useful of the two.

The Hardcoal

Many thousand years ago, when undoubtedly the earth was much more damp and at that time being warmed by a much greater heat, there was a vegetation which in splendor and size by far exceeded what we now see among the plants. Then there grew giant ferns, with trunks 60 feet high, and beautiful foliage; also moss as high as trees, as well as very tall reed-like calamus plants, and that in such places where now nothing but the dwarf-bulrush and turf is to be found.

But in the revolution of earth-matter, of which we read in Gen. 1:2, this growth of giant vegetation must have been buried, as well as large forests in perhaps later days by tremendous natural forces. Thus mighty stores of wood and vegetation were formed; the pressure from above and the heat from below working together, so that these trees and plants became gradually what they are now—coal.

What vast treasures there are still sleeping in the bowels of the earth! But we may thank God for letting us know of what we have found and the use to put them to, especially coal.

What a tremendous amount of work is accomplished by means of the coal. Railroad trains and steamships are driven by steam, as well as many thousand machines, and to make steam, coal is generally used. In connection with many works, coal is the means of giving millions of men work to get food, shelter and clothing; besides warming the homes of rich and poor. So you had better value the dirty black brother of the shining diamond, for it is of such great value. From the black coal we also get illuminating gas, to light our homes and the streets of the cities.

There are also many beautiful colors made from coal. The strong smelling coal tar is used for making colorless aniline, from which are then made many very beautiful colors.

Many more things could be said of the coal, for instance, the dangers in getting it out of the depth of the earth. Every year many .hundreds of miners lose their lives from explosions of coal gas, and other accidents. For many hundreds of years, people stumbled over the black stones, which here and there lay bare, not surmising their great value. In Saxony in the year A. D. 1400, a shepherd, kindling a fire, noticed the black stones of his fire-place burning, and thus its merits were discovered. In England and China they were in use before this time.

How touching and wonderful is the thought that God, thousands of years before man was on earth, thought of his needs and gathered tremendous stores of coal. Could we ever do without the coal? Is it not a precious gift from God, the giver of all good? But is not this God’s way of doing? He makes provision before the need comes, so that the need may be met when it does come.

So it is with the need of our precious souls. He thought of it and had it on his heart to send His only begotten Son, to give Him up to die for us, and bear His righteous judgment against sin, and in this way work out God’s plan of redemption and salvation, to save poor sinners from the wrath to come. May all of our dear readers take advantage of the offered salvation now, while it is called to-day—the day of grace. Then all who have, like the coal, been taken out of a dark place, (this world) shall shine in glory for Him who loved us and gave Himself for us.

Messages of God’s Love 10/15/1911

Bible History

Rahab
Chapter 70. Part 2

As soon as they were gone, she went up to the two Israelites to the flat top of the house, where she had hidden them under some stalks of flax, and she said to them, I know that God has given you the land, and all the inhabitants are in terror because of you, because we have heard of all the great things the Lord has done for you; how He dried up the Red Sea for you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to the kings of the Amorites, destroying them utterly. I know that the Lord your God is the God of heaven and earth. I have been kind to you, be also kind to my family, and give me a true token that you will save us from death when you come into the land. And the men answered: Yes, if you -do not betray us, we will be kind to you when the Lord has given us the land. Rahab let them down from her window by a rope, outside the wall of the city, for her house was on the wall and the gate had been shut as soon as the pursuers went out. She advised them to run to the mountain for fear of their pursuers, and to hide there three days until they had returned, then to go on their way. As the spies departed, they told Rahab that, so there might be no mistake, she should bind the scarlet line, by which she let them down, to her window, and to bring her father, mother and relatives to her home; but they would not be responsible for any of them outside of her house. After they had departed, she bound the scarlet line to the window, and the spies went on to the mountain where they hid during three days, and the men who had gone after them, looked throughout this part of the country without finding them. When the spies had safely returned to the camp of the children of Israel, they told Joshua all about it, saying: “Truly the Lord has delivered into our hands all the land; for even all the inhabitants of the country do faint because of us.”

Was not Rahab’s faith beautiful? She, a Gentile, had only heard of the wonders done by God for His people, but it was enough for her. She knew He must be the Lord of heaven and earth, and she feared at the thought of the coming judgment upon her people, and her great concern was to be sheltered from it. Does the young reader of these lines fear the judgment which is as certainly coming upon this world as it did upon Jericho? And if so, does he or she want to be sheltered from it? Then, do not wait till it comes, for you do not know when that will be, but as Rahab hastened to hang the scarlet line that she might be safe, do you too hasten to put yourself by faith under the shelter of the blood of Christ? for when God sees the blood, He will pass over you. “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus.” Rom. 8:1.

Messages of God’s Love 10/15/1911

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.” Psa. 34:7.

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

Messages of God’s Love 10/15/1911

Straits of Ballachulish

WE have in our picture a scene in Scotland: See. the men out in the boats, driving the cattle ashore. One of the animals is high up on a rock and looks as though he is bellowing to the others to follow him. I suspect the men we see, own these cattle, and live nearby. in the little village Ballachulish.

As one rides along in our country on the train, how many cattle and horses he sees grazing on the hill sides. Then perhaps he sees a lot of pigs and sheep. These creatures have been put out in great numbers on pasture land by their various owners. Although claimed by men, yet there is One who says, The cattle on a thousand hills are Mine. It is God who says this in His precious book, the Bible. Please think of this the next time you pass these animals as they are feeding on the beautiful slopes. Every one of them belongs to the Lord. He has an eye over all, and cares for each of them:?: Let it lead out your heart and thoughts to Him, for you, too, are one of His creation.

Again we have it in God’s Word, “Thou God seest me.” Does this thought please you, that God sees everything’, you do, and knows your very thoughts? If you are seeking to do His will, I believe it will make you glad to know that the Lord is with you and watching over, you. It is a very happy thing for the Christian to hear Jesus’ words, “Lo, I am with you alway,” and again, “I will never leave thee nor forsake thee.”

But if you do not know Jesus as your Saviour, I am sure it must make you very uncomfortable to feel that He sees you and knows that you care nothing for Him. If this is your condition, I beg of you to remember that He does care for you and wants you to be saved. He is longing to give you true happiness. Come to Him now and get forgiveness of your sins. “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.

“FOR THE WAYS OF MAN ARE BEFORE THE EYES OF THE LORD, AND HE PONDERETH ALL HIS GOINGS.” Prov. 5:21.

Messages of God’s Love 10/22/1911

Bible History

Chapter 71. Joshua 3-4
Crossing the Jordan.

AS soon as the spies had returned, Joshua prepared to cross the river Jordan, which separated them from the promised land. He brought the people to the brink of it, and sent officers through the host to say to the people: “When ye see the ark of the covenant of the Lord your God, and the priests—the Levites—-bearing it, then ye shall remove from your place, and go after it. Yet there shall be a space between you and it, about two thousand cubits by measure; (nearly one mile) come not near unto it, that ye may know the way by which ye must go; for ye have not passed this way heretofore . . . . Sanctify yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.” Joshua then, commanded the priests to take up the ark, and to pass before the people, and when their feet touched the water at the brink of the Jordan, they were to stand still in Jordan.

The people removed their tents and followed the priests, carrying the ark of the covenant. As soon as the feet of the Levites touched the water, (for at that time, the harvest season, the Jordan overflowed its banks) the rushing water from above stood up and rose in a heap, and the water below flowed down to the sea, and the people passed on, while the priests, who bore the ark, stood firm on dry ground in the midst of the Jordan until all the people had passed.

Then the Lord told Joshua to have twelve men, one from every tribe, and to take from the bed of the Jordan out of the place where the priests stood, each a stone, and to carry them on their shoulders to the place where they would lodge that night, as a memorial to the children, who, in course of time would inquire what meant these stones, and would be told of the wonderful way in which they had crossed the Jordan. Then Joshua took twelve stones and set them up in the midst of the Jordan, where the priests stood, and they are there unto this day.

When everything had been done as the Lord had commanded, the priests, still carrying the ark, also passed over in the sight of all the people, at Joshua’s command. As soon as they had come out, and touched the shore, the waters of Jordan returned to their place, and ran down, overflowing the banks as before. That night the people pitched their tents in Gilgal on the east of Jericho, and the twelve stones which the men had brought with them were piled up as a monument that they might always remember, and teach their children to remember, what the Lord had done for them, and that they might learn to fear the Lord their God forever.

We have seen, in our previous Bible talks, that the ark was a type of Christ. Here we see it standing in the midst of the Jordan, speaking to us of Christ going down to death for us, and we with Him, for the cross has put an end to us, and we, believers, can say we are dead to sin, crucified with Christ, for all this He accomplished for us, and now we are raised with Him, that we may live in newness of life. When once we are by faith in Christ Jesus, made children of God, we are new creatures, with a new nature within us, and we can henceforth live to please God, for the Holy Spirit within us will enable us to do so.

Then we shall surely desire to remember His love, the love that led Him down to death .for us. If the children of Israel had the twelve stones to remind them of the crossing of the Jordan, the Lord has given us memorials also. On the night in which He was betrayed, He took bread, and after giving thanks, He broke it, and said to His disciples: “This is My body, which is given for you; this do in remembrance of Me.” The cup also, after supper, He took saying: “This cup is the new testament in My blood which is shed for you.” And as often as we do this, we show His death, until He comes.

Messages of God’s Love 10/22/1911

Treasures in the Earth

Part 2.
The Diamond

THE diamond is the king of the entire mineral kingdom, for its radiant beauty outshines, even gold, like as though you would light a tallow candle and put it out in the bright sunlight. It just “eats” the light and sucks it in. When exposed to the sunlight, and then brought quickly into a dark place, it burns, as it were, like a small light. There is nothing on earth that has such a clear, solid, crystal body as we find in the diamond, which, as we said when speaking about the coal, is nothing but coal, having been crystallized in God’s mysterious workshop—nature. While coal sucks in all the light it can get, but does not give it out again, the diamond gives the received light back again. At one time it reflects the clear undivided light, and at another time the red, yellow or green beams of light. Thus its beauty shines in all the colors of the rainbow. Only the little dewdrop in the morning sun can compete with its wonderful radiance. This change of colors is especially beautiful when the natural stone is ground and has even sides or facets; then it is called brilliant or the “shining one.” The natural stone is generally irregular and sometimes round. Now the reason how coal could become so hard and transparent is, because God has made the dust of the earth to settle in such regular layers, that each atom (smallest conceivable part) settles close to the other in a straight line. The diamond which is as clear as the dew-drop, is four times heavier than water, and harder than any other stone or metal known to man. With it, one can cut glass and engrave on other precious stones, as though you would cut cardboard with a pen knife.

Before the year 1456 A. D. the diamond was not merited because of its beauty, for then people began to grind the natural stone, which is being done by diamond powder. The word of God mentions the diamond because of its exceeding hardness. We read in Ezekiel 3:9, “As an adamant, harder than flint, have I made thy forehead: fear them not, neither be dismayed at their looks, though they be a rebellious house.” Also in Zechariah 7:12; “Yea, they made their hearts as an adamant stone, lest they should hear the law, and the words which the Lord of hosts hath sent in His Spirit by the former prophets: therefore came a great wrath from the Lord of hosts.” And again in Jeremiah 17:1, “The sin of Judah is written with a pen of iron, and with the point of a diamond: it is graven upon the table of their heart, and upon the horns of your altars.’

But how good it is to know that even these deep-cut sins of Judah will be erased when Judah shall turn to the Lord their Redeemer, for God has found a ransom and the precious blood of Jesus His Son cleanseth us from all sin. Those young in years should not wait till their sins, like the sins of Judah, are “deep-cut”, for it is for us to remember our Creator in the days of our youth, and to accept the blessed Saviour now—while we may. The Lord Jesus is coming again to take those away from the earth who have honored Him by believing in Him with their heart and confessing Him with their mouth. If we are not ashamed to own Him before men, He will not be ashamed of us in glory, but will confess us before God His father and before the holy angels.

With this we will leave our twin stones, but hope our young readers will learn by the foregoing that we must not judge by appearance. How valuable is the coal to man, and how much God has stored away for us in the depth of the earth.

This whole scene will pass away and the earth with the works of man burned up, and how good it is to have an inheritance that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for those who believe, and wait for the Lord to come and take us into the Father’s house.

An Arab had once lost his way in a great desert of Africa and was at the point of starving. He found a bag of nuts, as he thought, but when he opened the bag they were only precious stones. What could they profit him, when wanting food and none to buy.

How good it is to have a treasure in heaven that thieves cannot take, nor moths can corrupt. Be wise then and make the right choice.

“What is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul, or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul.”

O blessed home of endless rest,

The home of peace and joy!

How sweet will be the song of praise

Above the bright blue sky.

Messages of God’s Love 10/22/1911

Come to Jesus

O, Children, to the Saviour come!

He waits your souls to bless;

To clothe you with His heavenly robe

Of spotless righteousness.

It was for such as you He died

On Calvary’s cruel cross;

To save you from the load of sin,

And from eternal loss.

Love brought Him down from heaven above.

To this sad world of woe,

That you, deserving endless death,

To life through Him might go.

God gave Him up—His only Son—

To bleed and die for sin,

That rebel sinners, great and small,

He to Himself might win.

Alone He suffered, died alone,

But now He lives in heaven,

That all who now believe may know

Their many sins forgiven.

Then, will you come, and own Him yours,

And trust His peerless name?

That when He comes to claim His own

He you as His may claim.

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

Messages of God’s Love 10/22/1911

Ready for a Camel Ride Across the Desert in Arabia

I SUSPECT most of you have seen a camel at some time and probably have wondered at its great size, .queer form and odd looking feet. We cannot see the feet of the camel in our picture, but we can get an idea of the length of his neck, by comparing it with the height of the man pictured here.

The camel has been fitted in a wonderful way for the dry countries where he lives. What animal can you think of here in our land that could possibly make a long journey across a desert? There is none. God has been so good to man in providing him just such animals as he needs in the various parts of the world. We could not take the horse from our country and expect him to do what the camel does, nor could the camel be brought to us and take the place of the horse. Each has been made in such a way as to endure labor in the climate where he is found.

It is a grand thing to recognize God’s hand in everything created; think of the different peoples of the world, how varied their needs and conditions, and how wonderfully has God met all these needs. But is it enough to merely own God’s power in creation and His goodness to mankind? We find in the Bible that even the devils believe there is a God. “Thou believest that there is one Gad; thou doest well; the devils also believe and tremble.” James 2:19.

So it is for you not only to believe there is a Creator God, but to know Him in His saving power, and that He is longing for you to put your trust in His Son as your Saviour. You may believe in a God, and yet be a stranger to His grace. If such is the case, you are lost. It is only as you know His love to you in giving Jesus as your own Saviour that you can be saved. God’s message to you is: “MY SON, GIVE ME THINE HEART, AND LET THINE EYES OBSERVE MY WAYS.” Prov. 23:26.

Messages of God’s Love 10/29/1911

Bible History

Chapter 72. Joshua 6
The Capture of Jericho

WHEN the inhabitants of Canaan, the Amorites, Jebusites, Hittites, etc., heard how the Lord had dried up the waters of the Jordan to allow the children of Israel to pass over into their country, they were greatly afraid. We remember, too, that Rahab had told the two spies that their courage was all gone. They realized that God was with His people, and that they could not stand against Him. But, alas, it did not turn them from their idols to the only true God, else God, who is rich in mercy would have spared them. No, for Jericho shut up its gates, and none could go in and none come out.

At that time, the Lord commanded Joshua to take sharp knives and to circumcise all the males among the children of Israel. Moses had done so after the crossing of the Red Sea, but the children, who were born in the wilderness had not been circumcised, and as none but Joshua and Caleb had been left alive among those who had left Egypt, the whole people was uncircumcised. During this time they all remained in Gilgal; there they kept the passover on the fourteenth day of the month; and they ate of the old corn of the land the next day, unleavened cakes and parched corn, and the manna ceased on that day, and they ate of the fruit of the land.

The time had come for the Israelites to begin their fighting in order to possess the land.

As they were encamped near Jericho, the angel of the Lord appeared to Joshua as a man, and stood against him with his drawn sword. Joshua went to him and said: “Art thou for us, or for our adversaries?” The angel answered: `”Nay; but as captain of the host of the Lord am I now come.” Joshua, at these words, fell on his face and worshipped. No wonder, for as the Lord was for them, could anyone withstand them? “If God be for us, who can be against us?” Rom. 8:31. But the angel said: “Loose thy shoe from off thy foot; for the place whereon thou standest is holy.” Surely, if we want the Lord to fight with us, and for us, we must separate from that which is evil, and displeasing to Him. Now, the Lord told Joshua in what way they were to conquer Jericho. Not in their own strength, but the Lord’s, not with weapons of war such ac men use, but in a way that would seem ridiculous to on-lookers. For six days the men of war should compass the city and go around it once with the ark of the covenant and seven priests bearing rams’ horns, and blowing them. On the seventh day, instead of once, this should be done seven times, and at the sound of the trumpet, the people should shout and the walls of Jericho would fall down flat; then the people were to enter the city, each man straight before him. As the Lord had commanded so did Joshua, the seven priests bearing the seven trumpets of rams’ horns, passed on before the Lord, and blew with the trumpets and the ark of the covenant followed them. The armed men went before the priests, and the rereward came after the ark. Joshua had commanded the people not to shout, nor make any noise, nor to speak a word until the day he should bid them shout. So the ark of the Lord compassed the city, going about it once, then they came back to the camp. The second day they did the same, and for six days. On the seventh, they rose early at dawn of day and went around the city seven times. At the seventh time when the priests blew the trumpets, Joshua said to the people: “Shout, for the Lord hath given you the city. And the city shall be accursed, even it, and all that are therein to the Lord; only Rahab . . . . shall live, she and all that are with her in the house, because she hid the messengers that we sent. And ye in anywise, keep yourselves from the accursed thing, lest ye make yourselves accursed, . . . . and make the camp of Israel a curse and trouble it. But all the silver and gold, and vessels of brass and iron, are consecrated unto the Lord; they shall come into the treasury of the Lord.”

So the people shouted when the priests blew the trumpets, and at the same time the walls of Jericho fell flat and the Israelites entered the city every man straight before him and so the city was taken.

All that were in the city, whether man, woman, young or old, cattle and sheep, were utterly destroyed by the sword.

As for Rahab, according to the promise, Joshua sent the two spies for her and all that were in her house. They brought her out with her father, mother and brothers and all that she had, and took her outside the camp of Israel. The city was burned with fire and all that was in it except the silver and gold and the vessels of brass and iron which were put into the treasury of the Lord. Joshua also pronounced a curse upon whosoever rebuilt the city. And the Lord was with Joshua, and his fame was noised throughout the country.

What a strange picture this must have seemed to the inhabitants of Jericho; this host of people without a weapon of war, parading around their city! Probably they laughed at the sight of them, and felt quite assured that such never could scale their walls nor do them much harm. The trumpet’s warning sound did not disturb them, nor cause them to come and throw themselves at the mercy of Joshua, thereby escaping the judgment of the city. Alas! many at the present time are doing the same thing; they hear around them the sound of the gospel, proclaiming a coming judgment upon this world, offering a way to escape through Jesus Christ the only Saviour. Perhaps day after day, in one way or another, they are reminded of it, and set it aside as unimportant, or laugh at it as foolish, or get used to it and say: We have heard this for a long time, and nothing has yet happened. The gospel sound is getting more and more pressing; this is, at it were, the seventh day with the trumpets blowing full blast. Tons of tracts, inviting sinners to come to the Saviour are daily distributed everywhere; earnest Christians preach salvation to a perishing world, and yet, how few people heed, and flee from the wrath to come.

Nevertheless, as surely as the walls of Jericho fell, and the city was destroyed and burnt, and none saved alive, just as surely is this world going on to judgment, and none shall escape save those who like Rahab, are sheltered under the scarlet line—the blood of Christ. Dear little readers, how is it with you?

Messages of God’s Love 10/29/1911

Now

WHILE I was engaged in mission work in P——- , I visited a young woman who was very low with consumption. She realized that her end was near but thought that the time was too short for her to think about being saved. She was too weak to hold a Bible or to read much, so a large wall text calendar was put up at the side of her bed. She read the verses on it from day to day, and pondered on them through the long hours. She realized that this life, which but a short time before was filled with bright promises for her happiness, was all but at an end. She was engaged to be married to a young man of the city, and on her being taken ill with this dreadful disease, he had at the first been faithful in calling on her. The last time he had been there was the week before Thanksgiving, and he had, much to her delight, promised that he would come again Thanksgiving day and bring her a nice fowl for their dinner together. She was eagerly looking forward to this event, and when the day came round her hopes were high for a happy time with this one who had become so dear to her.

How often the Lord has to teach our hearts the lesson that it is vain to trust in the heart of man. Emma waited in vain for a sight of the expected one. The day passed, and night came on, and still no knock at the door. It was a bitter disappointment, only to be rendered more keen by the passing of many more days and weeks, with never a sight of him whom she had once so fully trusted.

But her heart was to have a far better than any earthly friend. In her hours of grief her eyes had frequently turned to the text on the wall, “There is, therefore, now no condemnation to them who are in Christ Jesus.” How sweet it was, but ah, she was not one of those who were “in Christ Jesus.” She realized that she was one who was under condemnation; that she was dying, and that she was not ready to meet God. I had sought to put the simple story of .the love of Jesus before her, and from day to day as I called on her I waited to see the operation of the Spirit of God in her heart. My hopes were not long to be deferred.

As I entered the house one morning some three weeks before her death, a voice with a glad ring in it greeted me, and out of the fulness of her heart, she said, “Oh, Miss B——, I know now what that word “Now” in the text means! I am saved, now, and for me there is no condemnation; I am in Christ; I’m ready now to meet God whenever He is ready for me, for there is not the least sin left against me. I have found a far better friend than any earthly one could ever have been.”

I rejoiced with her in her new found joy, for now I felt that she was delivered into the hands of One whose care for her soul was such that He would never let her go until she was safe with Himself in the glory. Her progress in the knowledge of the Lord was rapid from this time on. She had a little rack made to hold her Testament at the side of the bed and from this time on she fed on this now precious word. She was anxious to see her mother brought to the Lord before she should be taken home, and when the ‘end was imminent she prayed the Lord that He would spare her just a little longer in order that she might be able to spend another day with her mother. Her desire was granted, and through the day she spoke to her mother about the blessed Saviour whom she had found. Toward evening she grew weaker, and shortly before twelve o’clock, she spoke with a renewed energy, “Goodbye, mother, I’m going home to be with the Lord.” Her eyes closed, she sank back, and her soul was with Him who has bought it with His own precious blood. Can you say that there is now no condemnation for you because you are in Christ Jesus?

Messages of God’s Love 10/29/1911

Bible Questions for November

Answers to Bible Questions for September

“That He might present”, etc. Eph. 5:27.

“And grieve not,” etc. “ 4:30.

“In whom we have,” etc. “ 1: 7.

“Children, obey your,” etc. “ 6: 1.

“Put on the whole,” etc. “ 6:11.

“But, speaking the truth,” etc. “ 4:15.

“Blessed be the God,” etc. “ 1: 3.

Bible Questions for November

The answers are to be found in the First and Second Epistles to the Thessalonians.

Write the verse containing the words, “All appearance”.

Write the verse containing the words, “Patient waiting”.

Write the verse containing the words, “Much assurance”.

Write the verse containing the words, “A thief in the night”.

Write the verse containing the words, “The wrath to come”.

Write the verse containing the words, “Obey not the gospel”.

Write the verse containing the words, “Walk worthy”.

Messages of God’s Love 11/5/1911

Thou Shalt Not Steal

I KNEW a little boy named Edward, who, like most children, was very fond of sweet things. He found out where his mother kept the basin of loaf sugar, and stole out of it a few lumps at a time. He was not suspected, but one day when he was looking out of the window, his mother sitting by his side, a policeman came along, holding a boy by the collar, who had been stealing a pair of boots from a store door, his drunken, wicked father having sent the boy to steal them. The sight of the crowd, and the boy crying, very deeply affected little Edward, and when Mrs. Ford told him that there were some parents who encouraged their children to steal, instead of severely punishing them, the child felt very wretched. He knew he had good parents; he could read the Bible; he had been taught to lift his hands, and bend his knees in prayer; and yet, he was dishonest. How much greater was his sin in stealing the sugar, than the sin of the hoy who had never been taught what is right!

That night, when Edward went to bed, he felt afraid to kneel down to pray. His mother asked him why he trembled so, but he did not tell her. Then Mrs. Ford was certain that her child had fallen into some secret sin, and she knelt down by the side of his bed and prayed for him, that God would show him how evil his sin was, and give him grace to confess it.

For some time after she left the room, Edward could not sleep. He thought of the boy in prison, until his heart ached. He feared to remain alone, for a guilty conscience is a terrible companion; so at length he got up and called to his mother, and, kneeling down at her feet, he told her the truth. “Mother, I have been stealing.” She inquired very gravely all the particulars, and then she said, “My child, you have done very wrong indeed, and I cannot pass this over; for though you have told me the truth, and I see you are very sorry, yet I am afraid you will forget this sad fault, unless it is punished.”

Edward was so ashamed of his fault, and so truly penitent, that he did not say one word. He felt he deserved punishment.. He knew that his mother, in punishing him, was kind, while the father that sent his boy to steal, was cruel.

Mrs. Ford considered a few minutes, and then asked if Edward had any money in his saving-box. He had been saving his pennies to buy a birthday present for his sister, who was at school, and it pained him very much indeed to give up the pleasure of presenting her with his tribute of love; I believe he would rather have had any other punishment, but he knew that, being guilty, he must submit, and so he fetched his box of savings, and gave them to his mother, and then, after a few words of prayer, he went to bed and slept.

Next morning Mrs. Ford desired him to tell her how much sugar he had taken, and Edward honestly told her the full amount; his money just about paid for it, but as paying for what people have stolen, does not undo the act of stealing, she thought it right to keep him without sugar. “I am sorry, my dear boy,” she said, “but as both your father and I tremble at the thought of your growing up to be a thief, and want yon always to remember this fault of yours, we think you ought to go without for a long time.”

“O mamma, I know I have done very wrong; take away my sugar for a month; I think I can never like it again.”

Edward grew up to manhood open and fair in every action; and as he looked back upon his childhood, he always said it was a lesson he never forgot, and that he should thank his mother to his dying day, for treating the matter so seriously.

“Let him that stole steal no more.” Eph. 4:28.

Messages of God’s Love 11/5/1911

The Sun Dial's Warning

ON the lawn at Corby Castle, not far from Carlisle, is a sun-dial which bears the words—

“Deathe, judgment, heaven, hell,

Upon this moment depends Eternitie;

O Eternitie, O Eternitie, O Eternitie.

1658.”

The man who had those words inscribed on the sun-dial evidently had all the realities of eternity before him, but we do not know whether he was looking forward to an eternity of happiness or woe.

Where will you spend eternity? Do not reply, “I do not know,” for if you pass away from this world without Christ you must spend eternity without Him, but if you accept Him as your Saviour now, and as a poor, helpless sinner trust alone in Him, then an eternity of joy will be yours.

“HE THAT BELIEVETH AND IS BAPTIZED SHALL BE SAVED; BUT HE THAT BELIEVETH NOT SHALL BE DAMNED.” Mark 16:16.

Messages of God’s Love 11/5/1911

Lay Hold on Eternal Life

I‘LL bet a dollar you can’t swim under that bridge!” said a youth to his comrade.

“Done!” cried the other, and pulling off his clothes, he dived into the water.

His challenger and other friends followed him with their eyes as they hurried to the bridge to see the feat more closely. Unfortunately, our young friend, whose name was Henry, found the stream stronger, and his own strength weaker than he imagined, so that by the time he got to the bridge he began to sink. When the crowd noticed that, they cried to him—some this, and others that, but nobody hastened to bring him help. Only one tall gentleman, who was known to all about as the president of the Young People’s Union, quickly fetched a rope which he threw to the youth with the words, “Lay hold on the rope!”

All looked on with the greatest anxiety as the rope swung over the head of the sinking boy, even touching him, but he showed no intention to wish to grasp it.

“Take hold of it!” cried his rescuer, “and I will save you!” The drowning boy stretched out his hand and grasped the rope. In a few moments a passing skiff took him in, and he was saved.

“Now get home at once,” said his friend, “or you will catch more cold.”

He went home and to bed. As he lay there, the whole adventure was gone over in his mind. These words he could not get away from, “Lay hold on the rope!” They reminded him of how the same gentleman had warned him and other young people weeks before in the young people’s meeting, to attend to their souls’ salvation, and how he had solemnly called out to them as they left the hall, “Dear young friends, lay hold on eternal life!” and how he had also warned him personally with the words, “Lay hold on it!”

He had forgotten all that, but he now heard again that same voice calling out the same words as he was drowning, and they went to his inmost heart; and when his rescuer visited him some days later, he asked. him if he was aware he had called the same words to him on both occasions.

“Yes, indeed,” was the answer.

“And I was thoroughly in earnest both times. If you had not laid hold on the rope, you would have been drowned; and if you do not lay hold on eternal life, you will be forever lost!”

Henry listened attentively, while his friend talked to him of the blessedness of eternal life. It awakened a longing in his heart, to possess this life, but he knew not how to begin.

The question occupied him so much that he could not get away from it night or day; at last it occurred to him, having heard in the young people’s meeting that Jesus was willing to give eternal life to all who came to Him, and had said Himself, that whosoever believed on Him should not perish but have eternal life.

All at once it became clear to him—that was the rope he must lay hold on —the word of the Lord Jesus. From his perplexed heart sounded the cry, “Lord, I believe!” and the Lord gave him life and peace.

A few days later, when the comrade who made the foolish bet with him, called to see him, he declared firmly—”In the future we will have no more such follies—it might have been all over with me; Mr. S. who threw me the rope, has not only saved my body; he has also saved my soul from .destruction. You must also become acquainted with him. Then you will have no more pleasure in bets, and such like foolishness.”

While he was speaking, Mr. S. himself entered, and ere they separated, the comrade had also decided to lay hold on eternal life.

Henry has often told the story of his rescue, and thereby many light-minded young people have been awakened from their indifference, and have been led to seek Him, who came to give eternal life to all who believe on Him.

“This is life eternal, that they might know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent.” John 17:3.

Messages of God’s Love 11/5/1911

Christ Died for Our Sins

Behold the Lamb of God,”

Nailed to a cross of wood,

In pain and agony, and death

While many mocking stood.

Dear children, do you ask,

Why thus He bled and died?

Why was the spotless Son of God

In shame thus crucified?

It was from love to us,

Our sins were on Him laid:

The holy, harmless, undefiled,

Our sacrifice was made.

The sin and shame were ours,

But God’s beloved Son

Bore all the punishment instead,

For guilt thus to atone.

Messages of God’s Love 11/5/1911

The Great Pyramid and Sphinx

WE have a picture before us of some immense stone structures in Egypt. They were built many, many years before Christ was born into the world. The smaller pyramids were burial places for the kings of Egypt,—one of these great–constructions containing the body of but one person. During the entire life time of a king, his servants’ were busily employed in making such a grand structure for his tomb. The one in our picture is the largest that has ever been found, so has been named The Great Pyramid.

On this side of the Pyramid, we see a strange stone head; it is called the Sphinx. Notice how small it looks beside the Great Pyramid,—we can scarcely believe that it is some sixty-three feet in height. We do not know for what purpose the Egyptians made these queer stone creatures. They may have built this one here; thinking it would protect the entrance to the Nile River valley.

How good it is that we have not been born in these, heathen lands where the people are so filled with superstitions.

We know very well that God alone, can protect us and our country from danger. How terribly sad to think about these people who do not know God, hut who trust in creatures they make with their own hands.

Someday each king will be resurrected from his pyramid and be made to appear before God. There is no hiding from Him: “Every one of us shall give account of himself to God.” Rom. 14:12. At the present day, some wish their bodies to be burned after death, but remember even such God will raise; all will be brought before Him. There is no such thing as getting away from God’s all-powerful Hand, either before or after death. Are you ready to meet Him? He speaks loudly to you; He wants you to seek pardon through His blessed Son, Jesus Christ. It is only by faith in the blood of Jesus that you can approach God.

“AS IT IS APPOINTED UNTO MEN ONCE TO DIE, BUT AFTER THIS THE JUDGMENT: SO CHRIST WAS ONCE OFFERED TO BEAR THE SINS OF MANY.” Heb. 9:27, 28.

Messages of God’s Love 11/12/1911

Bible History

Chapter 73. Joshua 7.
Achan

NOT all the Israelites obeyed God’s command to keep from touching the accursed thing in Jericho. Everything was to be destroyed, except the silver and gold, and the vessels of brass and iron, which would be consecrated to the Lord. But one man, named Achan, thinking no one saw him, disobeyed the command and took some of the riches which he found, and went to his tent, and hid them. Joshua did not know what was done, nor did the children of Israel, but God’s all-seeing eye was upon him, and poor Achan could not hide his stolen treasure from Him, for He it is, who will bring to light the hidden things of darkness, and make manifest the counsels of the hearts.

Of course, God could not bless the children of Israel with such a thing in their midst, nor could He fight for them.

Joshua sent men to spy out Ai, a small city near Bethel, who soon came back saying, We need not all go; there are but few people. Send only two or three thousand men up there to conquer. Ai. They forgot they had no strength of their own, and no power of themselves. It was God, not their marching and shouting, who brought down the walls of Jericho, but they had to be reminded of it. About three thousand men, then, went up to fight Ai, but, far from conquering the city, the inhabitants chased them from the gate and killed thirty-six of them as they were fleeing. When the people of Israel saw it, they were greatly afraid; Joshua tore his clothes, and fell on his face before the ark of the Lord, and he and the elders of Israel put dust upon their heads to show their sorrow. And Joshua prayed saying: Alas! 0 Lord God, why hast Thou brought this people over Jordan to be destroyed by the Amorites? Now the Canaanites shall hear of this, and surround us, and cut us off, and what about Thy great name? Poor Joshua almost reproached God for His grace, instead of inquiring why He had allowed this to come upon them, for God does not afflict willingly. But God said to him: “Get thee up; wherefore liest thou thus upon thy face? Israel hath sinned, and they have also transgressed my covenant which I commanded them: for they have taken of the accursed thing, and have also stolen, and dissembled also; and they have put it even among their own stuff. Therefore the children of Israel could not stand before their enemies, but turned their backs before their enemies, because they were accursed: neither will I be with you any more, except ye destroy the accursed thing from among you. Up sanctify the people, and say, Sanctify yourselves against tomorrow: for thus saith the Lord God of Israel: There is an accursed thing in the midst of thee, 0 Israel: thou canst not stand before thine enemies; until ye take away the accursed thing from among you. In the morning therefore ye shall be brought according to your tribes: and it shall be, that the tribe which the Lord taketh shall come according to the families; and the family which the Lord shall take shall come by households; and the household which the Lord shall take shall come man by man. And he that is taken with the accursed thing shall be burnt with fire, he and all that he hath: because he hath transgressed the covenant of the Lord, and because he hath wrought folly in Israel.”

The next morning, Joshua got up early and had all the people brought as God had commanded him, by tribes, families, households, and when Achan stood before him, pointed out by God as the guilty man, Joshua said to him: “My son, give, I pray thee glory to the Lord God of Israel, and make confession unto Him; and tell me now what thou hast done; hide it not from me.”

And Achan confessed and said: “Indeed, I have sinned against the Lord God of Israel; . . . when I saw among the spoils a goodly Babylonish garment, and two hundred shekels of silver, and a wedge of gold of fifty shekels weight, I coveted them, and took them; and, behold, they are hid in the earth in the midst of my tent, and the silver is under it.”

Joshua immediately sent messengers to Achan’s tent, who found the stolen things as he had confessed. They brought all to Joshua, with his sons and daughters, his cattle, his tent, in fact all that was his, to the valley of Achor. And Joshua said to him: “Why hast thou troubled us? The Lord shall trouble thee this day.”

And all Israel stoned him and his with stones, and burned them with fire; and they raised over them a great heap of stones. And the Lord’s anger was turned away from the people. They called that place The Valley of Achor (or trouble) ever after that.

What a solemn time that was for God’s people, and how deeply they must have realized that God is more holy than to behold iniquity! So many say that God is too loving to punish people, and they can’t believe that He would send any one to hell. God IS love, and He has proved it when He sent His own beloved Son, the Lord Jesus, to die for those who hated Him, but He is also holy, and it is impossible to have Him with us without having separated ourselves from evil. There must be the confession before God of any sin, before our consciences can be cleansed. So He tells us in 1St John 1:9. “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.”

Messages of God’s Love 11/12/1911

The Power of Prayer

The Story of a Pastor’s Wife
Part 1.

A HUNDRED years ago, there lived in the village of Ostelsheim, in Germany, a pastor and his wife. The pastor was a kind and genial man, and beloved by the simple peasants amongst whom he lived, but his wife in addition to her kindness to the poor, was a woman of great faith, and a devoted follower of the Lord Jesus Christ. At the time our story begins, Beate Paulus, for this was the name of the pastor’s wife, had been married about ten years, and had six little children; it was a busy, active life she led, as you may suppose, but in the midst of it she was laid low with a severe attack of fever. Rapidly she became worse and in the middle of the night her husband hurriedly sent for a second doctor. He gave very little hope of her recovery, and before long, death seemed to be approaching. The little children gathered around the sick bed, vainly imploring their mother not to leave them and the villagers also crowded into the room for a farewell word with the Frau Pastorin. With his face hidden in his hands, the father stood by the side of his wife in dumb anguish, and behind him crowded the children, sobbing with grief and distress. It was a touching sight, and many tears were shed by those who looked upon it. Only one soul in all the company was calm, and that was the mother herself; for she believed that all her toil was over, and that nothing remained for her, but to say good bye. And what do you think could make her so calm in the presence of death? Was it the thought of all the good works she had done? 0, no, she had no such thought; she was trusting altogether in the work of another; she knew herself a sinner, but she knew too, that all her sins were put away by the work of the Lord Jesus Christ, that she was saved and forgiven, and so without fear she could look forward to death. She fixed her fading eyes upon her husband, and drawing him to her with trembling hands, kissed him as for the last time; then she beckoned the children to her side and caressed them, and making a sign to those around her, she gave her hand to each in turn, and then in a faint voice murmured “My hour has come; I have reached the goal.” Her tired eyes closed, and all around felt that the end had come.

Suddenly the father roused himself, as from a dream, and beckoning to the children to follow, left the room, the little ones thronging around him as sheep behind a shepherd. Quickly opening the study door, the father led them. to the table, and bade them kneel, himself taking the central place. Then drawing off the little velvet cap from his head, with folded hands, he prayed, that although he did not deserve any such mercy God would take pity upon him and his children and leave them the mother they so sorely needed. Young as they were, the little children felt a thrill pass through them, as though they had been admitted before the throne of the Everlasting God.

“Now, children,” said the father, tenderly, as solemnly they rose from their knees, “we will go back.”

Again they entered that room where the dying mother lay, but now all were quiet, for into the hearts of those young children had entered a calm, that was deep and still, for they felt they had been in the presence of God.

No movement or grief was visible now; all the company were perfectly quiet, their eyes fixed on the colorless face upon the pillow.

It was not long before, suddenly opening her eyes, already closed, as it seemed in death, the mother spoke in the faintest whisper, “Let all the people go, I shall not die.”

The room was noiselessly emptied of its occupants. and from that hour she gradually recovered.

The illness lasted for eleven weeks longer, but father and children felt happy all the time in the quiet confidence that God had given them back the beloved mother.

(To be continued.)

Messages of God’s Love 11/12/1911

The Combat: Morning

WHAT a pitiful sight we see here in our picture! Doubtless these two animals have fought all night and at last fatigued and wounded have fallen, dead.

The poor creatures are lying by a stream of water: it may be that they struggled to get near this pool for a drink, but their horns are so interlocked that one deer could not possibly move without dragging the other. How they must have suffered! Indeed not a day passes but we see sorrow and suffering all about us, both among people and the animal creation.

We are told in God’s word that the whole creation will continue to groan and suffer until Jesus comes. Does this not make us long for Him to come and deliver this poor world from the bondage of sin? It is sin that has cursed everything; even the helpless animals are suffering because they are in a world which is under this curse.

Will you turn to Isaiah 11:5, 6? Here we read of a wonderful time that is coming; a time when the wolf and lamb shall dwell together. You know what different natures these animals have—one so fierce, and the other so gentle. But the time truly is coming when God shall so change the disposition of the wolf that he will be safe by the side of the lamb. Then we read that the leopard will lie down with the kid, the calf with the young lion, and the cow and bear shall feed together. Would you not like to see these marvelous things when they happen? If you are a saved soul, it will be your grand privilege to be with Jesus and you will see these very things come to pass. (Rev. 20:6.)

It will be a glorious time, too, for those on this earth, who, having never heard the gospel of God’s grace, accept Jesus as their King. This period of time we call the millennium, meaning a thousand years. Jesus will reign as King, and nothing but peace and happiness will he on the earth all this time.

The poor heathen nations have not had the open Bible, nor the opportunity for hearing the gospel of God’s grace, that you have had. So do accept Jesus now as your Saviour, if you have not done so already, for you never can accept Him as King. God will hold you responsible for all the privileges He has given you.

“TODAY IF YE WILL HEAR HIS VOICE, HARDEN NOT YOUR HEARTS.” Heb. 4:7.

Messages of God’s Love 11/19/1911

Forbid Them Not

Mark 10:13-16

Let little children come to Me,

From palace, mansion or from cot;

The young I always love to see:

Then let them come,—forbid them not.

I fain would fold them in My arms,

Bestow on them a blissful lot,

And shelter them from all alarms:

Then let them come,—forbid them not.

My blood, which was on Calv’ry shed,

Can cleanse from ev’ry sinful spot;.

And still, as when on earth I said—

Let children come,—forbid them not.

Their artless steps I love to lead

From each unsafe, unholy spot;

On heav’nly food their souls to feed:

Then let them come,—forbid them not.

When saints I summon to the air,

Not one of them will be forgot;

And hosts of children will be there:

Then let them come,—forbid them not.

Messages of God’s Love 11/19/1911

Bible History

Chapter 74. Joshua 8.
Ai

AFTER Israel had judged themselves of the sin of Achan, God could again be with them and fight for them, so He said to Joshua, “Fear not, neither be thou dismayed: take all the people of war with thee, and arise, go up to Ai; see, I have given into thy hand the king of Ai, and his people, and his city, and his land.” What they had done to Jericho, they would, by God’s help, do to Ai, but this time they could keep for themselves the spoil and the cattle.

Joshua chose thirty thousand mighty men of war, and sent them by night to lie in wait against the city, and to be all ready close by, while he and the people with him would advance toward the city, and flee from the inhabitants who would come against them. And when Joshua and the people would flee; the warriors would attack the city from behind, and burn and destroy it. God chose this way probably to show them how weak in themselves they were. At Jericho, He had shown them His power, but they had taken the victory as theirs, and thought that two or three thousand of them could subdue the enemy. It is hard for us to learn that we have no strength for good in ourselves, and that God alone gives victory. It is humbling to ourselves, but blessed to learn that Christ is all, and in all.

So according to the commandment of the Lord, Joshua sent the thirty thousand men to lie in ambush and they hid between Bethel and Ai, while Joshua stayed with the people that night. On the morning, he rose up early, numbered the people, and he and the elders of Israel went up toward Ai, with the rest of the people of war, and encamped themselves in the valley. When the king of Ai saw them, he and his people went out against Israel to battle. And .Joshua and Israel made as if they were beaten before them, and fled toward the wilderness, and all the people of Ai were called together to pursue them, and so were drawn out of the city till not a man was left therein, and the city left open. And the Lord told Joshua to stretch his spear toward the city; for at this signal, the ambush arose quickly from their place of hiding, and ran and took the city and set it on fire. When the men of Ai looked behind them, they saw the smoke ascending, and fear took hold of them, so that they had no power to flee this way or that. Then the Israelites turned back upon their pursuers, and those in the city came forward, so the people of Ai, between the two armies, were smitten, and none escaped. The king they took alive, and brought him to Joshua. All the inhabitants, men, women and children, twelve thousand in all were killed with the sword, and Joshua drew not his hand back, from the moment he stretched it with the spear, until all was destroyed. The cattle, however, and the spoil they kept for themselves as God had told. The king was hung on a tree until evening, but when the sun went down, they took him down, for God had commanded Moses, that in order that the land be not defiled, a body should never remain hanged overnight. Then Joshua built an altar in Mount Ebal. For this he took, according to the book of the law of Moses, whole stones, over which no man had lifted any iron tools. On this altar, they offered burnt offerings and peace offerings unto the Lord. And Joshua wrote on these stones the law of Moses in the presence of all Israel, while the elders and officers and judges stood on one side of the ark, and on the other, the priests, the Levites, which bare the ark of the Lord, and the strangers born among them. Then he read all the law to them, the blessings and the cursings, as it was written. Not one word did he omit before the congregation, men, women, little ones, and the strangers among them. Was it not blessed, their having learned that lesson of weakness in themselves and strength in God? It brought them to worship at the altar, and give God all the praise. So may we, when we learn that to God we owe everything. It is He who saves, He who keeps, He who gives us victory over Satan and our wicked selves. Well may we say then: “Thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Cor. 15:57.

Messages of God’s Love 11/19/1911

The Power of Prayer

Part 2

BEATE Paulus was, as I told you the wife of a poor pastor, in a remote part of Germany. Day by day she had to work hard, caring for all her little children, and doing the work of her house, besides which she had the care of several fields attached to the parsonage. But though she was poor, she was a highly educated woman, and as soon as her children were old enough to learn she began to teach them. Perhaps you wonder why she did not send them to school; the reason was that there was no school within reach, and she knew that it would cost a great deal of money to send them from home even to the nearest school. So, as I have said, she began by teaching them herself, but it was difficult to teach and work at the same time. Sometimes, for instance, when she was hard at work at the washtub, she would have the boys form a circle round her, and jumping up and down in measured steps, sing through the Latin declensions.

She could seldom find time for Bible lessons in the day time, so this was put off till all the children were snugly in bed, then sitting or lying beside them she would tell the Bible stories in such a wonderful manner, that each child was completely fascinated.

For some time, lessons went on in this peculiar fashion, but the boys were growing older, and the mother saw that if they were to be educated at all, they must be sent to a proper school.

But where was the money to come from? This was the puzzling question to all concerned, but Madame Paulus replied that God would help her to provide funds for the purpose, and when the two elder boys were eleven and twelve years old, they were sent to Leonburg, where a friend found for them a good, cheap boarding house. There was only a small sum required for this, but it fell to the lot of the mother to provide it. She could only obtain it by selling the produce of the fields, which I have before mentioned. At the same time she tried to save every penny, and spent nothing on herself and the younger children which was not absolutely necessary. Would you like to hear what they lived upon? For this is a perfectly true story, written for us by one of these very boys, when he grew up to be a wise and good man. Well, they had soup for breakfast, vegetables and dumplings for dinner, and sour milk and potatoes for supper. Meat was a luxury only for Sundays and rare occasions.

On one occasion, shortly before harvest the fields stood thick with corn and the mother had already calculated that their produce would suffice to meet all claims for the year.

She was standing at the window, thinking of this with great satisfaction, when her attention was suddenly caught by some heavy black clouds drifting at a great rate across the summer sky.

“It is a hail storm coming,” she cried in dismay, and quickly throwing up the window, she leaned out. Her eyes rested upon a frightful mass of wild storm clouds covering the horizon and approaching with rapid fury.

“O God,” she cried, “there comes an awful tempest, and what is to become of my corn? Dear Father in heaven, Thou knowest I cannot manage to pay for my boys at school without the produce of these fields. Oh, turn Thy hand and do not let the hail destroy my hopes.”

Scarcely, however, had these words crossed her lips when she started; for it seemed as if a voice had whispered in her ear “Is My arm shortened that it cannot help thee in other ways? Ashamed, she shrank into a quiet corner, and there entreated the Lord to forgive her lack of faith.

In the meantime, the storm passed. And now various neighbors hurried in to tell her that the whole valley lay thickly covered with hailstones, down to the edge of the parsonage fields, but the latter had been quite spared. The storm had reached their border and then turned in another direction.

The whole village was in amazement, declaring that God had wrought a miracle for the sake of the parson’s wife. She listened, silently adoring the goodness of the Lord, and avowing that henceforth her confidence should be only in Him.

Messages of God’s Love 11/19/1911

Columbus Before the Council of Salamanca

WHAT child old enough to go to school has not heard of this man? You all know, too, how many years he had to wait before he could get ships fitted out to undertake his explorations.

During this time he had to submit his papers and plans to these men of the Council of Salamanca. It took a great deal of money and provisions to venture out on the ocean at that early date. So Columbus had not only to appear before this Council, but was obliged to lay bare his purposes in the presence of the monarchs of different countries, before he obtained what he needed.

Do you realize, dear reader, that just as Columbus, though so great a man, was made to come before these persons of authority to submit his reasons for his actions, just so certain must you appear before One who will bring you to account for each deed of your life? How soon you will be called to do this, we cannot tell, but upon the authority of God’s word, we know that, “Every one of us shall give account of himself to God:,” Rom. 14:12.

Note again in Matt. 12:36, “Every idle word that men shall speak,. they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment” This will be a solemn time for the believer as his life is reviewed, , and all things laid bare—both, deeds that have been to the honor of his Saviour, and those that have not. The judgment of his life will not be at the same time as that of the unbeliever.

But how unspeakably solemn for the unbeliever as he comes before the great white throne, for he has not the blood of Jesus to cover all his sins, and he stands before God with nothing to say. He has not one acceptable deed to offer God, for Jesus is a stranger to him. You will not be asked, unsaved one, to excuse yourself, or to tell of any seemingly good deeds you have done in your life. The question above all that will he put to you will be, What have you done with His Son? It will then be too late to accept Him as your Saviour. Are there any sadder-words than, too late!

At present the question is, “What think ye of Christ?” Will you not accept Him as your Saviour? He is the One “IN WHOM WE HAVE: REDEMPTION THROUGH HIS BLOOD, EVEN THE FORGIVENESS OF SINS.” Col. 1:14.

Messages of God’s Love 11/26/1911

Bible History

Chapter 75. Joshua 9
The Gibeonites

WHEN all the wicked inhabitants of Canaan, the Hittites, the Amorites, the Perizzites, the Hivites and the Jebusites heard what Joshua had done to Ai and her king, they all gathered themselves together to fight with Joshua and Israel. But the Gibeonites, another people of the land, were so frightened when they heard of the wonderful victories of Jericho and Ai, that they did not wish to fight, but by deceit to make the Israelites their friends. So they saddled their asses, put old sacks upon them, and bound up old, torn skin bottles, old shoes and garments upon themselves. They also took moldy bread with them, and came to Joshua as ambassadors, and said to him and to the people, We have come from a far country to make a league with you. The Israelites answered: Perhaps you live around here, why should we make a league with you? Who are you, and from whence come you? They said from a very far country, have your servants come, because of the name of the Lord your God. We have heard His fame and what He did in Egypt, and to the two kings of the Amorites that were beyond Jordan, and to the kings of Heshbon and Bashan. So our elders and the inhabitants of our land said to us, “Take victuals with you for the journey, and go to meet them, and say to them: We are your servants; therefore, now, make ye a league with us.” This our bread, we took hot from houses the day. we started, but now it is dry and moldy.

These bottles of wine were filled and new; now they are torn; our garments and our shoes have become old by reason of our long journey.

Now we know that if Joshua had asked God what, to ,do, God would have shown him, but he did not, neither did Israel; but they made peace with the Gibeonites, and made a league with them, when God had commanded that they should utterly destroy the inhabitants of the land, that they might not be a snare to them, because of their wickedness and idolatry. Joshua promised to let them live and the princes of the congregation confirmed the promise. Three days later, Israel heard that the Gibeonites were their neighbors, and dwelt among them. So they journeyed and came upon the cities of Gibeon on the third day, but they dared not kill them because the princes had sworn by the Lord God of Israel to let them live. The people were dissatisfied and murmured; but the princes said: We may not touch them, because of our oath. Let them live, but they shall he our servants, to carry wood and draw water for the congregation. Joshua called the Gibeonites and asked them why they had deceived them; now they were cursed and never would cease to be their bond-men, but would have to be hewers of wood, and drawers of water for the house of God. They answered that they had heard of God’s command to destroy all the inhabitants of the land, and for fear of their lives, had done this thing. They would be content to be servants, and cast themselves upon Joshua’s mercy, who, because of the oath, dared not slay them. But from that day, they became bondmen to the Israelites.

Satan has many ways to tempt God’s people to sin, and we need to be always on our guard, knowing we are weak and make many mistakes unless we ask the Lord to guide us in everything. Joshua and the people of Israel should, by this time have learned their weakness and ask counsel of God, and surely, had they done So, He would not have allowed them to be deceived as they were. Truly we need to “Watch and pray,” lest we enter into temptation.

Messages of God’s Love 11/26/1911

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.’ (Rom. 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.’ (Rom. 10:9.)

Does he want everlasting life? The Lord Jesus Christ says, ‘He that believeth on Me hath everlasting life.’“ (John 6:47.)

Messages of God’s Love 11/26/1911

The Power of Prayer

Part 3.

(Continued.)

BEATE Paulus had now placed five of her six boys at school, and it may be imagined that the task of providing for them almost outstripped her powers. Thus it came to pass one year that the demands for the various payments had been several times repeated. But the mother always boldly said, “God will never leave me in the time of trouble.” The father, however, only shook his head and replied, “We shall see.”

Things were in this uncomfortable condition, when one morning the postman brought three letters from different towns where the boys were boarding. Each letter contained the same message, “If the bills were not paid at once, the boys would be sent home.”

The father read the letters with great excitement, and spread them out on the table to show his wife. “There,” he exclaimed, “look at them and pay our debts with your faith.”

Seizing the papers, she rapidly glanced through them, and then answered firmly, “It is all right; the business shall be settled, for He who says, ‘The silver is Mine and the gold is Mine,’ will find it an easy thing to provide these sums.” Saying this, she hastily left the room.

There was in the parsonage an upper loft, shut off by a trap door from the lower one, and over this door it was that, she now kneeled down, and began to pray to Him, in whose strength she had undertaken the work of her children’s education. She spread before Him those letters from the study table, and told Him of her husband’s half scoffing taunt. She reminded Him how her life had been redeemed from the very gates of death for the children’s sake, and then declared that she could not believe that He meant to forsake her at this juncture; she was willing to be the second whom He might forsake, but not the first, as He has said, “I will never leave thee nor forsake thee.”

In the meanwhile her husband waited down stairs, and night came on; but she did not appear. Supper was ready and yet she stayed in the loft. Then the eldest girl ran up to call her; but the answer was: “Take your supper without me; it is not time for me to eat.” Late in the evening the little messenger was again dispatched but returned with the reply, “Go to bed, the time has not come for me to rest.” A third time, at breakfast next morning, the girl called her mother. “Leave me alone,” she said, “I do not need breakfast. When I am ready I shall come.” Thus the hours sped on and husband and children began to feel frightened. At last the door opened, and she entered, with her face beaming.

The little daughter thought something extraordinary must have happened, and running to her mother, eagerly asked, “What is it! Did an angel from heaven bring the money?”

“No, my child,” was the smiling answer, “but now I am sure it will come.” She had hardly spoken, when a maid entered saying, “The master of the Linden Inn sends to ask whether the Frau Pastorin can spare time to see him?”

“Ah, I know what he wants,” replied the Frau Pastorin: “I will come at once.” Whereupon she started, and the master of the Inn, looking out of his window, saw her from afar, and came forward to meet her with the words:

“O Madame, how glad I am you have come. “ Then leading her into his back parlor, he said, “I cannot tell how it is, but the whole of last night I could not sleep for thinking of you. For some time I have had several hundred gulden lying in that chest, and all night long I was haunted by the thought that you needed this money, and that I ought to give it to you. If that be the case, there it is, take it.”

On this the Frau Pastorin said, “Yes, I do most certainly need it, my kind friend; for all last night I too was awake, crying to God for help. Yesterday there came three letters telling us all our boys would be dismissed, if their board was not paid at once.”

“Is it really so,” exclaimed the inn keeper, who was a noble hearted, and spiritual Christian man. “How strange and wonderful! Now I am doubly glad I asked you to come.” Then opening the chest, he produced three weighty packages and handed them to her with a prayer that God’s blessing might rest upon them. She accepted it with the simple words, “May God make good to you this service of Christian sympathy, for you have acted as the steward of One who has promised not even to allow the giving of a cup of cold water to go unrewarded!”

Husband and children were eagerly awaiting her at home, and those three dismal letters still lay open upon the table, when the mother stepped in radiant with joy. On each letter she laid a roll of money, and then cried “Look, there it is! And now let us believe that faith in God is no empty boast.”

Messages of God’s Love 11/26/1911

Bible Questions for December

Answers to Bible Questions for October

“Do all things,” etc. Phil. 2:14.

“Children obey your,” etc. Col. 3:20.

‘“For by Him”, etc. “ 1:16.

“Being confident,” etc. 1:6.

“But now ye also,” etc. Col. 3:8.

“Put on therefore,” etc. 3:12.

“For to me to live is” etc. Phil.:21.

Bible Questions for December

The answers are to be found in 1St and 2nd Timothy, Titus and Philemon.

Write the verse containing the words, “That blessed hope.”.

Write he verse containing- the words, “Inspiration of God”,

Write the verse containing the words, “Afflictions of the gospel.”

Write the verse containing the words. “In my prayers”.

Write the verse containing the words, “I am child”.

Write the verse containing the words, “The word of truth”.

Write the verse containing the words, “Love of money”.

Messages of God’s Love 12/3/1911

The Parisian Lady

AN English preacher aroused certain “Society” circles in Paris, by preaching the Love of God and Judgment to come. Living in pleasure. forgetting God, with an occasional attendance at a Ritualistic Church, declarations of God’s coming wrath upon all the ungodly, were sounded out in their hearing. One Society lady had openly confessed Christ as her Saviour, and intimated her withdrawal from the world of frivolity and fashion. Her friends, determined to keep the doctrine from spreading, got the family doctor to certify she was insane, and had her committed to an asylum. But they could not keep her light from shining, or her lips from testifying of Christ. She spread the glad tidings of the gospel there, and the matron and several of the servants were led to the Lord. On being liberated and restored to her family, she welcomed her fellow-associates in pleasure, telling them of the better portion she had found in Christ, and setting forth, as one who knows and lives in the enjoyment of God’s salvation only can, the superiority of Christ, to the shallow pleasures in which she had formerly lived, and many were turned to the Lord, who formerly were but worldly worshippers with a little religion on Sundays. There is a vast difference between having a nominal religion, which can be put on and off at pleasure, and having Christ as a personal Saviour. Christ on the Cross as Substitute and Redeemer, Christ on the Throne as Life and Lord, Christ in the heart as Lover and Portion. Have you religion or Christ as your Saviour?

Messages of God’s Love 12/3/1911

Feeding

IN this snow scene the trees look quite bare. They do not look as though they would afford much food. Yet the deer is busy eating —feeding on the twigs.

Eating is a very important and necessary thing. Can you mention any creature that does not eat? You eat several times every day. You see the dogs and cats eating. If you have a canary bird you give it seeds and other things to eat. You see the horses and cows feeding on the grass in the pasture. Yes, every creature has to eat to live. Without any food we would starve to death. Without enough food we may live, but we will not be strong and healthy.

The food we have been talking about is food for the natural body—for the life that each person and each creature gets when it comes into this, world.

Do you know, little reader, of any other kind of food? Have you heard of another kind of life? Jesus said when here on earth, “Ye must be born again.” John 3:7. When a person is born again and becomes a child of God, he has a new life. This life is very different from the natural life we all have. It is eternal. It needs, too a very different kind of food. This new or spiritual life cannot be fed with milk, meat, potatoes, apples, and other things of that kind.

What is the new kind of food we need as children of God? In John 6:35’ Jesus says, “I am the bread of life.” Jesus, when tempted by the devil, said, “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.”

At the well of Sychar He said to His disciples, “My meat is to do the will of Him that sent Me.” When we read God’s Word and act upon it, we feed upon Christ and do the will of God. Thus our souls are fed with spiritual food, and we grow to be strong in the Lord.

Dear reader, it is just as important that you give your soul good, wholesome food every day as it is that you feed the body. Do not starve your precious soul, but feast continually on that heavenly food that always brings with it great strength, blessing and joy.

“I AM THE LIVING BREAD WHICH CAME DOWN FROM HEAVEN: IF ANY MAN EAT OF THIS BREAD, HE SHALL LIVE FOREVER.” John 6:51.

Messages of God’s Love 12/3/1911

The Power of Prayer

Part 4.

PERHAPS today you would like to hear something about the everyday life of the “Frau Pastorin,” or “The Mother” as all the villagers round loved to call Beate Paulus. She was indeed a mother to them, as well as to her own nine children. Her great delight was to help both their souls and bodies. Every week she would gather the poor women together and read to them either from the Scriptures or from some book explaining the same.. This proved very helpful to them, especially to the wife of a charcoal burner, in whose house the neighbors assembled. This good woman seemed to become happier every day as she sat mending the clothes of her large family during the readings, and she often declared “I am only now beginning to find out what I possess.” It was not the riches of this world which made her so happy, you may be sure, but learning something of the wonderful things which God had done for her. And as she began to see what God had done for her, even sparing His only Son to die for her, she began to long to do something too for Him, and many a time she would run over to help the pastor’s wife if she noticed the light burning late at night in the house, saying, “I don’t know how it is, madam, but I cannot sleep when you are up and busy.” How true it is that when we find out how God loved us, we also learn to love those around us, and seek to help them.

But the Frau Pastorin took an interest, not only in the grown up people, but also in the children of the village. There were no Sunday-schools in those days in Germany, but every Sunday afternoon she started out carrying with her a large Bible or colored picture book, going from house to house with the famous books under her arm. She every where gathered a crowd of eager listeners, as she told the beautiful stories to them of Moses and Joseph, of David and Daniel, and best of all, of that Holy Child Jesus, of His birth in a manger, and His death upon that cruel cross.

When the mother left one Cottage, the children intent on hearing more of her attractive stories, ran along by her side into the next. It was a curious sight—this wandering Sunday-school, such as has rarely been seen; the shepherd in the midst of the flock, the crook being replaced by that wonderful picture book, and as she passed up the street her tale was often continued to satisfy her scholars.

But perhaps the greatest labor of this devoted woman was one unseen by others, for it was accomplished when all around her were at rest. When her daily toil was ended, and her household had gone to rest, she spent hours in prayer to God, kneeling in a little corner, beside the stove in her room. When in later days, her family would beg her to go to rest, she always said, “I shall rest in eternity; now I have no time, there are so many to pray for.”

In the midst of this busy, and I am sure, happy life, a severe blow fell upon the pastor’s wife, her husband was taken from her suddenly and unexpectedly. A number of friends attended the funeral, and all wondered at her calm and restful manner, and on one expressing his astonishment at this, she replied with i. beaming face, “I certainly was almost distracted as I started to walk in that sad procession today, with my nine orphan children; especially when I looked upon the coffin, with which all my hopes for this life were to be buried. At that moment it was midnight in my soul; I saw no star in heaven, and no path on earth. Then I lifted my eyes to Him, who, up to this time, had been my only hope and refuge, and begged for one beam of His eternal love to shine into my sorrowful heart. Suddenly it was as if a voice cried in my ear, ‘Be still and take no care, henceforth God alone will provide for you and your children.’ In listening to these words my heart grew light, and I answered, ‘If that be so, I am content, and even the dark path shall be a joyful way to me.’ It is this that strengthens me, for I know He is faithful and keeps all His promises.”

Messages of God’s Love 12/3/1911

The Daughter of Jairus

Long since there lived a little girl,

Just twelve years old was she;

A Rabbi proud her father was,

No other child had he.

One day the roses left her cheeks,

She drooped her little head;

Her mother took her in her arms,

And carried her to bed.

With tears of grief, at Jesus’ feet

His message he doth give:

“My little daughter’s dying, Lord,

O come and make her live.”

Though but a little child was she,

And He the mighty God,

He sought at once this little child,

To heal her by His word.

As to her dwelling He drew near,

The sounds of mourning told

This happy little laughing child

Was lying dead and cold.

“Weep not; the damsel is not dead,

But sleepeth”—thus said He;

“Of every mourner clear the house,

And come, my chosen three.”

Her wondering parents followed Him,

As to her bed He stepped;

They knew it was in death’s embrace

Their little daughter slept..

“My little maid, arise,” said He,

She lived, who once was dead;

She looked, and lo, the Lord of life

Was standing by her bed.

Her parents’ joy was very great

To see their child restored;

“Your little girl is hungry now,

Come, feed her,” said the Lord.

Again He joined the eager crowd

That thronged the busy street,

That other troubled hearts might lay

Their burden at His feet.

Messages of God’s Love 12/3/1911

Waiting

DEAR children, what do these bright pretty faces make you think of? They seem to be waiting—watching for something. Perhaps some of you often sit out on your door step or porch, side by side, waiting for mother or father to come home. And what do you do when you see them coming? You may clap your hands for joy as you run to meet them. You are happy to see again those you love.

Is there anyone else you are watching for? Someone you have not yet seen—one you have learned to love though still unseen? Many of you know and love the blessed Saviour who died for you. You know your sins are forgiven through faith in His name. Do you know also that He is coming to take you and all who love Him to His home above? Do you know that any day—any hour, He may descend into the clouds and call us up to meet Him in a moment—in the twinkling of an eye? (1 Thess. 4:16, 17. 1 Cor. 15:51, 52.)

So He wants you to be always waiting and watching for Him, ready to be called at any moment away from this world of sin and sorrow. Ready to meet Him in the air. Ready to share His home and throne above. Are you watching? Are you longing with joy to see that blessed face?

The Apostle Paul says,—”Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love His appearing.” 2 Timothy 4:8.

“WHAT I SAY UNTO YOU, I SAY UNTO ALL, WATCH.” Mark 13:37.

Messages of God’s Love 12/10/1911

Bible History

Chapter 75. 3osbua 10.
The Five Kings Conquered

SOON after Joshua had made peace with the Gibeonites, the Canaanite kings heard of it. It caused them much worry, for Gibeon was a great city, greater than Ai, and its men were mighty.

King Adoni-Zedec, of Jerusalem, sent to the kings of Hebron, of Jarmuth, of Lachish and of Eglon, asking them to come and join him, and fight Gibeon, because of its league with Joshun and the children of Israel. They all responded, and soon the five kings, with their armies, were standing before the walls of Gibeon to war against it.

The men of Gibeon quickly sent word to. Joshua to the camp at Gilgal to come and help them. So., Joshua went from Gilgal and all the men of war with him, and the Lord said to him, Fear them not for I have delivered them into thy hand, and not one man of them shall stand before thee. The Israelites came upon, their enemies suddenly, having travelled from Gilgal all night. And the Lord discomfited them before Israel and killed many, and chased them. As the Amorites were fleeing, the Lord sent great hail stones from heaven upon them, so that many died. In fact, more died with hail stones, than had been ‘slain by the sword. God did a wonderful thing that day. Joshua and the people were many hours fighting, and they feared darkness would overtake them, and they would not know where to find their enemies. But Joshua trusted the Lord, and knew He could do everything, and that He had promised to do great things for His people. So he asked God to do a miracle never seen before; and he said: “Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon; and thou moon, in the valley of Ajalon.” And the sun and the moon obeyed, for God caused them to do so. Hour after hour passed and the sun and the moon were in the same place still, until all the enemies of Israel were conquered. There never was a day like that before nor after it; but God, who made these two great lights, and set them in their courses, could easily stop them when he chose. It was wonderful, indeed, but not so wonderful as that this same Lord, Creator of heaven and earth, should come down, and be made lower than the angels, in the likeness of sinful man, taste death for every man, and that He, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, should want us to share His glory! That, He had to accomplish through suffering, and now, He is not ashamed ‘to call us brethren l Ah! this surely is wonderful, and beyond our understanding! How great His love, even past finding out!- Well may we trust such a Lord for we, like Joshua, shall not be disappointed.

Joshua and all Israel returned to Gil-gal, but the five kings fled, and hid themselves in a cave at Makkedah. It was told Joshua,. who ordered grea:t stones to be rolled upon the mouth of the cave, and men set by -it to keep them. But the others stayed not but pursued their enemies till they, had made an end of them. ,Then the people returned to. Joshua at Makkedah in peace, and none dared move their tongues against them. After this, Joshua ordered the stones removed from the mouth of the cave, and the kings brought out; he called for all Israel, and said to the captains that went with him: “Come near, put your feet upon the necks of these kings.” They did so, and Joshua continued, “Fear not, nor be dismayed, be strong and of good courage, for thus shall the Lord do to all your enemies against whom you fight.” Then the kings were hung on five trees until evening. But at sundown they were taken down according to the law, and cast into the cave where they had hidden themselves, and great stones laid at the mouth of it. That same day Joshua took Makkedah, and its king, and destroyed every soul in the city. Three other kingdoms, Libnah, Gezer, and Debir met the same fate. Then Joshua went from there to the cities of the five kings who had come against him, destroying them utterly, and all that was therein according to the word of the Lord. All these kings and their lands did Joshua take at one time, because the Lord God of Israel fought for His people. Then Joshua and all the people returned to their camp at Gilgal.

Messages of God’s Love 12/10/1911

The Power of Prayer

Part 5.

THEN Beate Paulus lost her husband, she was obliged to leave her old home in the country parsonage, and go to live in the house of a widowed aunt at Munchingen, where a humble lodging had been offered her, and although it seemed scarcely possible to find space for herself and four children in the two or three tiny rooms placed at her disposal, still having now little or no money at her command, she thankfully accepted her aunt’s offer.

The expenses of moving were greatly beyond her expectations, and being anxious to save every cent, she decided to walk nine miles of the journey. At three in the morning they were to start, but before that time such heavy rain fell, it seemed impossible to think of walking, and yet a coach was to be in waiting nine miles off at six o’clock.

Just as the “mother” was deliberating what to do, and no doubt, placing her difficulties before the Lord, a rumbling noise was heard, and an immense double-teamed wagon drove up to the door. It belonged to a peasant who had intended driving a load of corn to a distance, but seeing the rain, put off his business, so that he might drive the pastor’s widow to meet the coach.

The new home was simple in the extreme, but the great kindness of the aged aunt and indeed of all the neighbors, made the sorrowful little family feel happy and in some degree comforted’.

Soon after their arrival, three of the elder boys came home for their holidays. The small parlor could scarcely hold them all, but the joy of being together was not disturbed by this; but a fresh trouble, however, and one which could not be so easily put aside, now made itself felt. Money had come to an end, and the small store of provisions melted away fast, until one evening all was finished, and there was nothing to do but to go to bed fasting.

This was too much for the mother, and she said, “Am I to have my children here, and not even be able to give them food?” And kneeling on the ground beside the stove, she spent the whole night in earnest prayer to God. When the boys came into the room in the morning, she was still there. “Dear mother,” they said, “let us breakfast. Even if earthly food is not provided, we still have the bread which is given for our souls, the word of God.” So gathering round, they read, sang and prayed.

Hardly was the “Amen” said, when a well dressed, veiled lady entered, after knocking, and begged to speak to the eldest daughter in private. She led her to an attic and then the lady, who was the widow of a professor explained herself, saying,

“I cannot think what has come over me. This morning, I woke at six o’clock with these words in my ear, ‘Get up and take something out of your purse to Madame Paulus at Munchingen,’ I hesitated, never having heard she was in need of money, but the same impression repeated itself upon my mind continually, until, at last, I yielded. So I have come, begging you to accept this sum, although I do not know whether you want it or not.” With grateful joy she took the little packet of coin, and after the visitor had gone, came down triumphantly crying, “Now, mother, our distress is over; God has sent a widow from Kornthal to bring you this help.”

Messages of God’s Love 12/10/1911

Free As the Running Stream

WALKING in the country on a recent Saturday afternoon, I overtook a laboring man man returning to his home from his day’s toil. The recent rains had swollen the streams, and across on the hillside, a torrent of water as pouring itself down the rocks. I remarked on the plenteous supply of pure and refreshing water, and added, “What would they give in many a ‘barren wilderness to have that!”

“Aye,” said the happy day-laborer, “that’s true. And yet we do not value it as we ought, just because we have never been as they are, in real want of it.”

“Just like the gospel,” I said, “only those who know themselves thirsty ‘stoop down and drink and live’! Others let it pass their doors and never think of it.” “I know that by experience, sir, for it’s not ten years yet since the gospel became to me as the water of life. But bless the Lord, He brought me to see I had nothing to do, nothing to pay, nothing to give, that His gospel is as free as the running stream.” We grasped hands as fellow-heirs of the same kingdom, saved by grace, not of works, or by any merit of ours, yet saved and sure of it. Saved on account of a work done by the Son of God, and sure because the word of the Eternal God has said, “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life.” (John 3:36). We walked and talked together of the freeness and fulness of God’s salvation, of the simplicity of its way, and how “God’s easy, artless, unencumbered plan” is often clouded and darkened by men who know nothing experimentality of it. “That’s just where I was misled,” said the aged laborer, as we parted. “I took in what man said, without going to God’s Book for myself, and it nearly ruined me for time and eternity; but, thank God, He opened my eyes to see His own simple and blessed way, and like one of old I now can say, ‘The Lord is my light and my salvation’ (Psa. 27:1). I was for many a year a laborer for salvation, but now having received it as God’s free gift, I seek to do some little work for Him, not in order to be saved, but because I am already saved by grace and sure of glory.” What a splendid testimony to God’s saving grace. Reader, can you truthfully say He has saved you? If not you may, for His salvation is as “free as the running stream.”

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

Messages of God’s Love 12/10/1911

The Coming Storm

A little ago the sky was blue and the sun shone brightly upon a placid sea, or upon waters only rippled by a gentle breeze. Such a scene is very attractive to those who go out in their boats for fishing or for pleasure.

But now the blue in the heavens is no longer seen. The sky is overcast with clouds which are carried swiftly along, growing, heavier and blacker each minute. The waters are troubled by the rising wind and the waves beat higher and higher. The boats are in danger and the men. hasten to row them to shore—letting down the sails that would, in a strong wind, cause them to be overturned. There is not time to be lost and the men are no doubt thankful that the shore is so near at hand. They will soon be safe from the coming storm.

Dear reader, there is a “coming storm” by our picture,—a storm that will carry with it far more desolation, destruction, and death than any storm that has yet been Witnessed. It is the storm of God’s wrath,—a storm that will utterly destroy all in its path. Thousand-s, millions of precious souls are hastening on, engrossed in pleasure and business,—heedless of this storm that threatens. If it were not for God’s. goodness,:-not one would escape it ravages. But God is good and He has made a way of escape. He has afforded a place of shelter in the person of His own beloved Son. We have all sinned and by sin have earned the wrath of a sin-hating God. But the great love of Jesus, the Saviour, led Him to take upon Himself all the wrath due to our sins, and now, for us who are sheltered by His blood, the judgment is past.

Have you taken shelter or are you too much engrossed in the affairs of this life to “flee from the wrath to come”? Oh, do not be blinded by the allurements of this world “for what shall it profit a man if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own ,soul?” (Mark 8:36). Your soul is far too precious to exchange for the pleasures of time, or for the vanities of a Christless world. God who gave it, demands it for Himself. Why not commit it to Him, and in His presence spend an eternity of joy?

Do not delay. The clouds are gathering ‘thick and fast. Flee for shelter to those, loving arms outstretched to receive you just as you are, in all your sin.

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

“HE THAT. BELIEVETH ON .ME HATH EVERLASTING LIFE.” John 6:47.

Messages of God’s Love 12/17/1911

The Royal Recruits

ONE day when George Whitefield, the famous English preacher, through whom in the last century, many thousands were led to the sinner’s Saviour, was preaching in the open air, a royal recruiting officer came along with drums and fifes to disturb the meeting.

Whitefield remained quite calm and collected and cried aloud: “Halt! the recruiting officer of the King of Great Britain is here! Let us hear what he has to say.”

When the recruiter had ceased his uproar, Whitefield said: “My friend, I have kept silence and listened to you a long time. Now in return I have a word for you. I am the recruiter of the King of all Kings. Here”—pointing to the Bible— “are my credentials. Now hear the word God speaks to you.” And then he announced to the completely surprised and eagerly listening man the solemn message of the lost condition of sinners and the glad tidings of Jesus. The royal recruiter was seized by the penetrating words of God’s message, came to a true knowledge of himself and was converted.

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

Messages of God’s Love 12/17/1911

Bible History

Chapter 77. Joshua 11
The Conquest of Hazor

WHEN the remaining nations in the land of Canaan heard of the victory of Israel over the seven kings, they sought by one last great effort to do away with. God’s people. Jabin, the king of Hazor sent to ‘all the remaining kingdoms, to the kings of the north, of the mountains, of the plains in the smith, to the Canaanites on the east and on the west, asking them to unite to destroy the Israelites. They all responded and went out- with their armies, many people. Scripture , tells us, “like the sand of the seashore in multitude,” with many chariots and horses.

This might well strike fear in the children of Israel, had they to fight such a host by themselves; but God said to Joshua, “Be not afraid because of them; for tomorrow about this time I will deliver them up all slain before Israel. You shall hough their horses and burn their chariots with fire.”

And so it happened. Joshua came upon them suddenly, and all the people of war with him, and fell upon the Canaanites. And the Lord delivered them into Israel’s hands who smote them, and chased them, until none remained. And Joshua did as the Lord told him — houghed their horses and burned their chariots with fire. Then he turned back and went to take Hazor and smote the king and all the inhabitants with the edge of the sword—utterly destroying them and burned the city with fire, for Razor had been the head of all these kingdoms. But the spoil of all the other cities they kept for themselves and the cattle, for the Lord gave it to them, but the inhabitants were not allowed to live. So Joshua took all the land, the hills, the mountains, the plains, the valleys, all according to the word of the Lord to Moses and to Joshua. For a long time war continued in the land for God allowed the hearts of those idolatrous people• to harden that they might not make peace with the Israelites in order that they might be destroyed. Then Joshua fought with the Anakims, those giants who had so frightened the spies when Moses sent them to search the land. Joshua cut them off from nearly every place they were, except in Gaza, in Gath and in Ashdod where they remained. The cities taken were burnt and the children of Israel had peace in the land God had given them.

How wonderfully the Lord fulfilled every promise He had made to them! He had blessed them and given them a beautiful rich country for them to dwell in! That was an earthly inheritance, for the Israelites were His earthly people. To His children now, His heavenly people, He has given a still better portion, an inheritance incorruptible, undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for us. But He wants us to enjoy it now, not only, as many think, when we are with the Lord, for we are already blessed with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ. But Satan, (like the king of Hazor) does not intend, if he can help it, that we should enjoy them, and he puts before the Christian all the hindrances he can. He seeks to turn our eyes to the things of this world, or to ourselves, that we may not have them on Christ. He also fills the hearts of unbelievers with hatred for the Lord’s people, so that through fear or shame we should give up Christ. But if God be for us, who can be against us? We have God’s word more fully than Joshua did, and if we obey it, we too have the word, “Be not afraid because of them.” And in 1 John 5:4, we have “This is the ‘victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.”. Also, it says, “Ye are strong, and the word of God abideth in you, and ye have overcome the wicked one.” 1 John 2:14. So we see we have two weapons against the enemy: faith, and the word of God. 0, may we not forget to use them, for in no other way can we successfully fight the great enemy of our souls!

Messages of God’s Love 12/17/1911

The Power of Prayer

Part 6.

I TOLD you last week, how God provided money to buy food for Madame Paulus and her large family. Today I have to tell you how He provided for another great need.

The holidays had come round again, and all the boys were once more at home in the tiny lodging. But small as it was, the lodging must be paid for, especially as the aged aunt from whom they rented it, needed the money for her own necessities.

The approaching rent day weighed much on the mother’s mind. Each day she grew more heavy hearted, often saying that the money must be paid in time, for her aunt was depending upon it. The day actually arrived at last. What was to be done? The family purse was empty. But Beate Paulus knew well to whom the silver and the gold belonged. She called all her family around her, saying, “Come, let us ask God to step into the midst of us, and to take this matter into His own hands.” She then uttered this prayer: “Faithful Saviour, Thou knowest this is the rent day. Once when Thou didst need tribute money, a fish out of the sea was sent to bring it. Wilt Thou let me remain in debt for my rent? I cannot believe it. For in the great ocean of Thy creation, there are still many thousand fishes, who might bring the money I need. Therefore, I beg Thee not to leave me in perplexity, but come and help.” The children were listening, and feeling strangely moved, especially the elder lads, who were now students in the university. The prayer ended, and the family scattered; the mother and girls were busied about the house, while the boys talked to one another in low voices, all the time waiting and wondering as to the outcome of their mother’s faith, but the morning hours slipped by, and they almost decided to give up their watch.

Shortly before noon, however, they were roused by a knock at the door, and the village pastor, an old friend of their father’s entered. “I will soon tell you what has brought me,” he exclaimed, “On my way to the prayer meeting, I was met by the postman, bringing a packet from the Dean of Leonburg. I opened it and found a note directing that the enclosed grant of money should be placed in the hands of Madame Paulus, and as I knew the gift would be welcome, I hurried over with it as soon as possible.”

At this moment the mother entered the room, and the pastor asked her if she knew why the grant of money had been sent to her.

“I forwarded a petition, sir,” she replied, “not to the Dean, however, or, indeed, to any man at all, but to Him whose cabinet of exchange is established on high.”

The kind pastor was much moved, and as for those tall students, the tears stood in their eyes, and they confessed that they had that day gained a lesson worth many hundreds of university lectures.

Well, I have not much more to tell you of this remarkable woman. After a year or two, her boys, now grown into men, were able to earn plenty of money for their own support, and also for their mother and sisters. One of the young men began a school, which rapidly grew, and soon he had a hundred pupils all boarding in the house. Over all these boys, the “mother” watched with great interest; almost every evening she would spend with them, sometimes entering into their games, and other times delighting them with her stories.

On these occasions she sat amongst them surrounded by the smallest ones, the remainder in a circle around her, while those who could not see her, would climb on chairs and tables, so that the mother was almost buried amongst them.

For several years she lived happily with her boys, and at last passed peacefully away, surrounded by her children. Almost her last words were: “Glory already! Children I am going home.” “Therefore I say unto you, what things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.” Mark 11:24.

Messages of God’s Love 12/17/1911

Living Water

OUR picture today presents a very beautiful scene. The cows are enjoying a good drink. The sheep is grazing contentedly on the grass, and the woman is interested in watching these pretty creatures. She seems to have the care ‘of them, and no doubt thinks as much of them as we do of our pet dogs and cats.

In the distance there are more cattle, and the whole valley looks beautifully quiet and peaceful. Do you think that after while some more of the cows will be coming up to this fine big trough for a drink? Probably they will, for they all need water. And we can draw a lesson from this. You know you could not get along without water. I could not. None of us could. The body requires it.

Now, if this water we all drink is so necessary for the body, can you tell me what kind of water is necessary for the soul? For the soul thirsts as well as the body. If you will read the fourth chapter of John’s Gospel you will see that Jesus is the living water. He alone can satisfy the thirsting soul. In this chapter we find the Lord Jesus by a well, talking with a poor Samaritan woman. He tells her that she drinks from the well only to thirst again, but that if she asks of Him He will give her living water, (verse 14). Then He says to her, “Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” John 4:14.

Have you found this “Living Water”? Have you drunk at this satisfying fountain? If not, do not delay longer. Accept this wonderful offer of everlasting life for Jesus says, “LET HIM THAT IS ATHIRST COME: AND WHOSOEVER EVER WILL, LET HIM TAKE THE WATER OF LIFE FREELY.” Revelation 22:17.

Messages of God’s Love 12/24/1911

Bible History

Chapter 78. Joshua 12-19
The Division of the Land

WE have seen, after the conquest of Hazor that the land rested from war. All the Canaanites who had come to fight Israel had been slain, and all the land conquered, and those who remained, had no more power to resist Israel. Joshua had grown quite old and saw the time approaching when he would have to leave this scene. He called the children of Israel to divide unto them the land.

Moses, according to God’s command, had told Joshua that the division should be made by lot, for the nine and a half tribes. We have not forgotten that the tribes of Reuben, Gad and half of Manassah had been content to dwell on the other side of Jordan, therefore they could have no part in this. The whole congregation assembled together at Shiloh, where they set up tabernacle. From there, Joshua sent three men for each tribe to go through the land and describe it, that it might be divided by lots. So it was done, and each tribe, according to their families drew lots and had their land apportioned to them. But of the tribe of Levi, the Lord had said, He would be their inheritance. No land was given them; but according to Moses’ command, Joshua and Eleazar, the priest, gave them cities from all the other tribes, and the suburbs thereof for their cattle; forty-eight in all.

And the Lord gave them rest round about, and not a man of their enemies could stand before them; for the Lord delivered them all into their hands. Nor had any good thing failed which the Lord had promised them, for all came to pass.

We have not forgotten Caleb, the brave man who was among the spies sent to Canaan by Moses. When he had come back, and he and Joshua alone had given a good report of the land, Moses had promised that he should be given the land he had trod upon and to his children, because he had wholly followed the Lord. According to this promise, Caleb now came to Joshua and claimed his inheritance, saying “Thou knowest the thing that the Lord said unto Moses the man of God, concerning me and thee in Kadesh-Barnea. Forty years old was I when Moses, the servant of the Lord sent me from there to spy out the land, and I brought him word again as it was in my heart. Nevertheless my brethren who went up with me made the heart of the people melt, but I wholly followed the Lord. And Moses swore on that day, saying, Surely the land whereon thy feet have trodden shall be thine inheritance, and thy children’s forever, because thou hast wholly followed the Lord my God. And now, behold, the Lord hath kept me alive, as He said, these forty-five years, even since the Lord said this to Moses, while the children of Israel wandered in the wilderness. I am eighty-five years old, yet I am as strong as the day Moses sent me ; as my strength was then, so is it now, for war, both to go out and to come in wandered in the wilderness. I am eighty-five years old, yet I am as strong a’s the day Moses sent me; as my strength was then, so is it now, for war, both to go out and to come in.

Now therefore, give me this mountain whereof the Lord spoke in that day; for thou heardest in that day that the Anakims were there, and the cities were great and fenced. If the Lord will be with me, then I shall be able to drive them cut, as the Lord said.”

All these forty years, the heart of Caleb had been set upon this inheritance. All through the desert path, through the burning sand, the thirst, the weariness he was sustained by this hope. He remembered the riches of Canaan and went on steadfastly “wholly following the Lord” till the hope had become a reality.

We, believers on the Lord Jesus Christ, also have a hope, not only heaven but Christ, the One who loved us and gave Himself for us. With Him for our object, we shall also be enabled to “wholly follow the Lord,” for He tells us that “every man that hath this hope in Him purifieth himself, even as He is pure.” 1 John 3:3.

Could Joshua refuse to fulfill such a request? No, indeed, but he blessed Caleb and gave him Hebron for an inheritance which was to go down to his children after him. But in that city, those giants, the three sons of Anak, still lived, and Caleb had to drive them out before he could enjoy it. From there he went up to the city of Debir, which used to be called Kirjath-Sepher, and offered his daughter to wife to whosoever would take this city. Othniel, his nephew, took it and Caleb gave him Achsah, his daughter to wife. She moved her husband to ask a field of her father, and alighting from her ass she asked for springs of water. And he gave her both upper and lower springs.

These springs of water are types of spiritual blessings. Shall we not ask them of Him who giveth to all liberally and upbraided not, and it shall be given us? I et us read His word more, and ask Him to water it and cause it to bear fruit in our hearts. Our answer will surely be like Caleb’s to his daughter.

Messages of God’s Love 12/24/1911

Happy Childhood

Happy, happy childhood,

Happy, happy days,

How I love the children

And their merry ways,

How I love to watch them

Free from every care,

Thinking all that happens

Trifles light as air.

Eyes undimmed with sorrow,

Brows all smooth and clear,

Lips just made for laughing,

Dimples everywhere.

Young days should be cloudless,

Childhood, one sweet song,

Little ones as happy

As the days are long.

Yes,—and teach the children

Of the love of One,

Who alone can shield them .

Till their race be run.

Tell how fully Jesus

Meets our every need,

And you’ll place before them

Happiness indeed.

Messages of God’s Love 12/24/1911

Noah's Contemporaries; Or the Men Who Laughed and Perished

THERE were many great and talented men in Noah’s time, mighty men and “men of renown,” we are told. Yet not one of them believed God when He said He would send a deluge of waters to destroy mankind because of their sins in His sight.

They heard Noah preach (2 Pet. 2:5). they saw the ark being prepared, some of them very likely helped to build it, yet not one of them believed the word of God, but went on as if things were to continue forever as they were. “They did eat, they drank, they married wives, they were given in marriage, until the day that Noah entered the ark, and the flood came and destroyed them all.” (Luke 17:27). People get rid of this solemn fact of ancient history by saying it is a legend, and the devil gets learned men to corroborate this, which helps him to make dupes of many who are glad to catch at anything to keep them at ease in their sins. What puts it beyond all doubt that the story of the flood is genuine fact, that it occurred exactly as it is recorded in the Book of Genesis is, that the Son of God puts His imprimatur upon it, and attests its awful fact by using it as a warning to others of a more fearful judgment yet to come. He knew all about it, because He was there. He was in the beginning “with God” (John 1:1), and saw from the holy heaven in which He ‘dwelt, these unbelieving men and women of Noah’s time, who sneered at the warning voice, perish. What a sight it was! Slowly but surely, the waters of judgment rose, covering hill and mountain, until the last place of refuge was doomed, and the last unbeliever sank to rise no more.

Reader, be warned. The Son of God does not mock you when He says, “As it was in the days of Noah, so shall it be in the days of the Son of man”—that is, when He comes in judgment. There will be no escape, no refuge. Great men and mighty men, we are told, will cry out in terror (Rev. 6:16) “The great day of His wrath is come.” It has not come yet. Thank God the day of His grace and salvation is still with us. While it lasts, flee to Christ, the only Ark of salvation, the one Deliverer from “the wrath to come” (1 Thess. In Him there is salvation. Out of Him, all is judgment and destruction.

Why unbelieving? why wilt thou spurn

Love that so gently pleads thy return?

Come, ere thy fleeting day

Fades into night away;

Now mercy’s call obey;

To Jesus come.

Messages of God’s Love 12/24/1911

Puzzle Corner

No. 1. A poor little people are we,
Whose houses are nothing but mines;
While we search for ourselves busily
Where the sun in his majesty shines.

No. 2. We are poor little trembling souls
And carefully have we to hide,
In the funniest corners and holes,
Which always have foxes defied.

No. 3. To each other we’re loyal and true,
No monarch or ruler we own;
And yet when you see what we do
You’ll find we’re as firm as a throne.

No. 4. Despised as we are as a race,
And looked on as horrible things,
We dwell in a beautiful place.
And oft the companions of kings.

Now little ones search once again
And ask neither mother nor nurse,
The puzzle is simple and plain,
But mind—I want chapter and verse.

Messages of God’s Love 12/24/1911

Safe

WHAT an interesting picture! What does it all mean’ What are the dogs trying to do? Why is the cat on the donkey’s back? I think most of you can tell the story. The dogs were chasing the cat, as dogs so often do, and the cat jumped up on the donkey, knowing she would be safe there. Dogs cannot jump high and climb the way cats do. If they could they would often hurt and kill the poor cats. You have often seen cats run up a tree very quickly, or over a fence when dogs were after them: The dogs do not often catch them.

Whose friend do you think the donkey is? Will he help the dogs to get the cat? No, hardly. That hind leg looks ready to kick the dog if he should come any closer. The cat has a friend that is stronger than her enemies—a friend quite willing and able to protect her. She is in a safe place.

Dear children, does this picture make you think of another place of safety?. Do you know One who can protect you from harm? Jesus, the Son of God loves you so much that He does not want to see you in trouble or danger, and He came down from heaven and died on the cross that you might be safe. You and I and all others have sinned and are in great danger unless we have reached this place of safety—which is Jesus, Himself. In His arms we are safe. Some of us have found shelter in His blood. Have you? If you love Him He will take care of you. He is stronger than all your enemies and you may safely trust Him at all times.

“THE ETERNAL GOD IS THY REFUGE, AND UNDERNEATH ARE THE EVERLASTING ARMS: AND HE SHALL THRUST OUT THE ENEMY FROM BEFORE THEE.” Deut. 33:27.

Messages of God’s Love 12/31/1911

Bible History

Chapter 79. Joshua 20.
The Cities of Refuge

WHEN God gave Moses the law in the wilderness, among the numerous commands laid upon that man of God, one was to set apart six cities when they were come into the land. These cities would provide a refuge for the man slayer and were to be called “Cities of Refuge.”

Now that the Israelites had come into their inheritance, God told Joshua that it was time to appoint them. According to the law, Joshua selected six cities; three on one side of Jordan, three on the other, all about the same distance apart, about seventy miles, so that no one would be any further away from one of them than thirty-five miles. The names of these cities were Kedesh, Shecheni, Bezer, Hebron, Ramoth and Golan, and they were given to the Levites, and the elders of the cities were appointed as judges.

We read in the sixth Commandment “Thou shalt not kill,” and God told Moses that murderers must be punished with death, else the land would be defiled with blood, and could not be cleansed of it, but by the blood of the one who shed it. (Num. 35:33.)

But sometimes a man might kill another without wishing to do it; without being angry, or hating the person he killed; he might kill him by accident, he might throw a stone when he did not see any one, and the stone might fall on the head of a man and kill him. Was the man who threw the stone, a murderer? Must he be put to death? No, a merciful God did not wish this; that man was not like a cruel murderer who hates his neighbor, waits slyly for him, and at last kills him.

God made a way of escape for the unintentional manslayer. He was to run directly to one of the cities of refuge, he was not to wait; if he were found on the road he might be killed; he was to run to the city, and stand at the entering of the gate and declare his cause to the elders, who would take him in and care for him. Then he would be judged by the congregation whether he was guilty or not. If judged guilty, he was given into the hands of the avenger of blood, usually a relation of the dead man who would kill him; but if found innocent, he was to remain in the city of refuge until the death of the high-priest who had been anointed with oil, and then he could return to his home and possessions, and no one dare touch ‘him then.

God wanted to give Israel, by this appointment of cities of refuge, not only a present place of safety for their man slayers, but also a foreshadow of what was to come. When the Jews, many years later, crucified the Lord of Glory, God in His grace looked upon it as being done in ignorance, and so the Lord Jesus said on the cross: “Father forgive them, for they know not what they do.” They did not realize who Jesus was whom they crucified. They should have known, of course, for none but God could work the works He did—healing the sick, curing the lame, opening the eyes of the blind and even raising the dead. But they were blind to the glories of the Lord and failed also to see the wondrous grace of God revealed in Him.

After the death and resurrection of the Lord Jesus, His servants spoke of who He was and that He was exalted to God’s right hand, and many believed in Him then, for His servants not only could convince the people by the word, but power was given to heal the sick in His name.

Those who believed were forgiven of their sin and were given to know that the death of the very One whom they had crucified was the means whereby God could be just in forgiving. They were sheltered from judgment through His shed blood. So we who are sheltered by Jesus’ blood can never come into judgment, but we have past from death unto life. John 5:24.

Messages of God’s Love 12/31/1911

He Died For All

ONE day I visited a poor woman, who for many years had been bedridden and had suffered much. When I had offered her some words of sympathy she replied:

“Yes, it is true I am suffering much; but Jesus is with me. My case is not half as bad as that of an old woman in M. of whom. I heard lately. She is above eighty years of age and has nobody to care for her, but her old husband, who is feeble from old age. She has incessant pain and continually cries, `O, if I could only die and get rid of this torture!’ But O! she is without hope, without Christ, and will allow nobody to speak to her about her soul.”

It was too late to go then to M. but I could not get what I had heard out of my mind. So old, such pain, longing for death, and yet before her only an endless, dark eternity—how dreadful!

The next day I found myself on the way to M. I wished to make at least one visit to speak with the old sick woman. The little garret in which she lived with her husband was soon found. A narrow steep stair led up to it. Even outside the door I heard the poor creature groaning loud and painfully. When I entered, she looked at me astonished, and asked me somewhat disagreeably:

“Who are you, and what do you want with me?”

I told her my name, and said in a few words that I had heard of her illness and was come to visit her.

The thought that I had come so far to visit her, seemed to surprise her, so she made no objection when I drew in a stool and sat down near her bedside. But as soon as I produced my pocket testament, she said in angry tones:

“Shut that book! I know all you want to say to me—O what pain, what torture!”

I still made an attempt to speak with her about what a lost sinner needed to know. But she would listen to nothing of it: she could only sigh over her lamentable condition and wished to speak of nothing else.

O, my dear unconverted reader! Will you not be reconciled to God now, when you are in possession of health and strength? Thousands and thousands delay coming to Jesus and think they still have time enough. But suddenly death comes, or an illness so painful and acute that it robs them of all thought and they become unable to occupy themselves with divine and eternal things. Yet God has made Christ, His well-beloved, who knew no sin, to be made sin for us that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him, and the apostle Paul writes, “Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God,” (2 Cor. 5:20). God beseeches and prays, warns and invites: and you remain indifferent?

On the following day it snowed heavily, and I was busily occupied with preparations for a long journey. But the old woman would not go out of my mind. I felt I must make a last attempt to reach her heart.

I found her suffering as much as on the previous visit, and whatever I might say on the condition of her soul, she could only talk of her fearful pain, her weakness and her sad plight. I felt utterly helpless, as she began to talk of what, for years past she had gone through. It was indeed a terrible story. I stood speechless near her bed and could only cry to God that in His grace He would lighten that dark heart and open these poor blind eyes to recognize the work of Christ, ere it would be forever too late. Finally she finished her story, and when I remarked that Christ Jesus had come down to invite just such poor, weary laden souls to Himself, she replied impatiently:

“I know that Jesus came down to this earth and died for all.”

“For all” I asked, “has He then died for you”?

“Yes, I know that He died for me.”

“Well,” I replied, “if He died for you, then you must be saved, for it is not possible that His death could be in vain.”

The sick woman was surprised, and stared at me for a time, then she directed her gaze slowly upwards. A solemn stillness prevailed in the room. No noise could be heard, even the groaning of the sick one had ceased. Her face, which a few minutes before had borne such a hard, repulsive expression, gradually changed. With inward joy, I marked the change. At last she began with stammering voice, speaking to herself more than to me! “He died for me, and I am saved. O, God, is it possible?

He died for me, yes, for me! Yes, I know it, He died for me!”

The next moment she seized my hand and as a stream of tears poured down her wasted cheeks, she cried out: “God be praised, that He sent you to speak to me. I understand it all now. How dark and blind I have been! Christ my Lord and Saviour has borne all my sins. He died for me, yes I know, it was for me. Thanks and praise to Him for ever I”

With hearts overflowing, we thanked Him now together. Then. I wished to leave; but the happy old woman would not let me go. She must hear still more of Jesus. She talked, no longer of her pain, but only of Him who loved her and had given Himself for her. When I was finally obliged to go, she said, “Well, the Lord reward you, my dear friend! You have indeed been a good friend to me and I know that I shall see you again up there.”

I never saw her again down here. I was obliged to travel and she went home soon after; yet many of my acquaintances visited her and always found her happy, resting in the finished -work of Christ. He had died for her and had made everything secure for her.

My reader, can you say, “He died for me”?

His blood can wash the vilest clean,

O! come, confess thy sin;

A full salvation, vast and free,

Through Christ the Lamb once slain.

Messages of God’s Love 12/31/1911

Messages of God's Love: 1910

Table of Contents

Bible Questions for January

The Ancient Book

Morning

The Ancient Book

The Knowledge of God

Little Annie's Prayer

Pilgrims

The Ancient Book

The Knowledge of God

A Little Child's Happiness

Hens

Bible History

Soul, This Night

The Knowledge of God

The Appian Way

Bible History

The Knowledge of God

Bible Questions for February

Caught in a Trap

Jack, the Irish Mute

Winter

Treasures

Bible History

Caught in a Trap

Jack, the Irish Mute.

The Sheep in the Snowstorm

Caught in a Trap

Jack, the Irish Mute

Begging

To the Young

Wawatam

Jack, the Irish Mute

Bible Questions for March

Bible History

A Happy Choice

What Must I Do to Be Saved?

Bread

Friends

The Lighthouse Keeper's Daughter

Ruins

Number Six

This Is How I Know

Thou God Seest Me

A Problem - What Doth It Profit?

Bible History

God Is Not Mocked

The Little Singer

Bible Questions for April

The Little Singer

Joppa

I Will Go With Him

Results of Sin

Bible History

The Dying Shoemaker

Danger

Bible History

Rich and Poor Up There

Who Is This Jesus?

The Biter Bit

Who Is This Jesus?

Jesus Had Done It

Indians

Bible History

Grace Marston

Bible Questions for May

The World's Birthday

The Wonderful Works of God

All Things Are Ready

Sheltered

Sheltered

The World's Birthday

Call the Children

The Pheasants

The World's Birthday

Their Sins and Iniquities Will I Remember No More

The Story of Alolo

In a Ring of Fire

Death