Messages of God's Love: 1926

BEAUTIFUL pet! Do you think you could find anything more contented, or happier looking, than this fine creature held so carefully by her gentle mistress!

Pussy looks perfectly satisfied and does not seem to have a shadow of fear, but rests quietly and lovingly in the arms of the one who is holding her.

And as you look at the face of this dear young girl, do you not see kindness written there? You would not think of her as giving blows or harsh words for her handsome pet, would you? And you will find usually that those who are kind to animals are kind to people.

God has shown great kindness to you in giving His blessed Son to be your Saviour. Do you know Him as your own blessed Lord and Saviour?

Some boys think it manly to be rude in their speech and rough in their ways; but such a thought is a great mistake. The only perfect Man that ever trod this earth, the Lord Jesus, was characterized by "meekness and gentleness." (See 2 Cor. 10:1.) And the more like that blessed One you are, the meeker and more gentle you will be. If the Spirit of God is working in you, gentleness and goodness will be part of the fruit that will be borne.

"THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT IS LOVE, JOY, PEACE, LONG SUFFERING, GENTLENESS, GOODNESS, FAITH, MEEKNESS, TEMPERANCE." Gal. 5:22,23.

Messages of God’s Love 1/3/1926

Give Thanks

THE year that has just past has been to many, a year of joy in a new-found Saviour, and such are able to rejoice in that they are now children of God, and on the road to glory to be forever with their blessed Lord, who loved them, and gave Himself for them.

To many it has been a year 'of trial, suffering and perplexity. What need of prayer and endurance! But in the midst of sorrow, how much we have to give thanks for.

The time is short; His coming draws near, and our great exercise should be to please Him who, in divine grace, has redeemed us to Himself by His own precious blood.

"For yet a little while, and He that shall come, will come, and will not tarry." Heb. 10:37.

Messages of God’s Love 1/3/1926

Bible Lessons

Judges 14

The close of the thirteenth and the beginning of the fourteenth chapters presents a contrast, for it was not at all according to the mind of God that His people should marry Philistines. Indeed He had solemnly warned them in Deuteronomy 7: 3, 4 against marriages with the nations who were idolaters:

"Neither shalt thou make marriages with them, thy daughter thou shalt not give unto his son, nor his daughter shalt thou take unto thy son, for they will turn away thy son from following Me, that they may serve other gods; so will the anger of the Lord be kindled against you, and destroy thee suddenly." Samson's father and mother knew it was sin on Samson's part to wish a wife of the Philistines, and begged him to give her up, but their son was acting in self-will, and untrue for the time and in this respect, to the separation which God had through the angel imposed on him.

From verse 4 we learn that God makes use of what He does not sanction; God's principles do not alter, but He looks beyond Samson to the discomfiture of the enemy. Samson was weak, morally, and what he did was more individual than any of the earlier judges. He represents to us the tendency of the church, or assembly of God, and of the individual Christian, to fall away from the standing given by God. This tendency does not always produce the same amount of evil fruit, but it leads the heart further and further away from God, into the world. God may and evidently He does still use those who neglect to maintain the position He has purposed for the assembly; He may glorify Himself through them, and doubtless He does, but there is great loss to the unfaithful ones. It cannot be otherwise, and the evil is progressive.

While then Samson is only measurably true to his calling as a separated man, the Spirit of God uses him in feats of strength; he kills a lion, and the riddle he propounds about it leads to his killing thirty of the Philistines.

Samson had strength from God while going on in a measure of faithfulness to Him. This is the "riddle", the secret of God's children. The lion has no strength, though he may roar at them, against those who belong to Christ, and by the Holy Spirit's power, victory is gained and honey is found. Unhappily, Samson did not keep himself apart for God, and he exposed his secret to his own loss.

God mercifully preserves Samson from this marriage, and he returns to his home. The will of God is done, but we do not see much to commend in the ways of the man whom God at this time raised up.

What of ourselves, who profess the name of Jesus?—are we each seeking to occupy the position of true separation from the world which God has given us? Alas! it is to be feared that the self-will of God's children today is relatively greater than Samson's self-seeking. But the remedy is ever available—the Word of God and prayer. May we seek His face!

Messages of God’s Love 1/3/1926

Help in Time of Need

I WAS lately taken by a friend over a hospital where, as is usual in such places, there were many and varied cases of suffering. In the corner of one of the wards lay a young girl, whose bright face and rosy cheeks were a striking contrast to the pallid looks of several around her. Drawing near to her bed I said,

"You look very happy, why are you lying here?"

Elsie soon told me her story: she had been taken to the hospital with a bad foot and the doctor had found it was necessary to amputate it. After a few words of sympathy I said,

"How glad you must be that the operation is over; did you feel very nervous about it?"

"No, not at all," she said, and the same bright smile with which she had greeted us lit up her face.

"Then I think you must have known where to look for strength and help?"

"Yes, I did," she replied, and in a few simple words told me that she had come to Jesus just two years ago, and now she was proving Him to be "a Friend that sticketh closer than a brother."

Ah! there was the true secret of happiness. Elsie had found in Jesus a living, loving Saviour, One who could help her in every time of need, so she was just rolling her burden upon Him. I think she must have known that sweet verse in 1 Peter 5:7, which says, "Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you."

Have you, dear young friend, trusted in Jesus for salvation? Then lean upon Him day by day, and you will find as Elsie did, that He will never fail you. He loves to be trusted, and He is the only One who can always help you.

When I was a little girl I was once very frightened about something, and my mother said to me, "Remember you can honor Jesus by trusting Him;" I thought that was just what I should like to do, and so I prayed that I might, and the Lord Jesus took away all my fear. He loves to hear and answer the prayers of His little ones.

"To my weak steps He doth give heed,

He watcheth me, my Saviour,

He helpeth me in every need,

He loveth me, my Saviour."

Messages of God’s Love 1/3/1926

Do You Love Jesus?

My Dear Young Friends—

I want to ask you this personal question, and may you thoughtfully answer it. I am very emphatic and I tell you why. I was taking a gospel meeting at L H some time ago, and there was one very attentive listener there every evening, whose name was Lottie; she used to walk home with me every evening after the meeting, so one night as I was wishing her goodbye, I said,

"Lottie, do you love Jesus?" she said that she did. I said,

"Have you ever thanked Him for loving you?" She replied, "No."

I told her to thank Jesus for loving her before she went to sleep, that night, and she promised so to do. As she knelt in prayer that night she felt that she had not told the truth and wept tears of repentance. Next night she came to me with a bright face, beaming with joy, and said,

"O, Mr. H., I told you a story last night. I said I loved Jesus and I really did not, but I do now, and I have thanked Him, for His love."

Before the meetings closed she brought a sister to Jesus, and they are both happy in His love; so my dear young friends, Do you love Jesus? If so, have you ever thanked Him for loving you?

"We love Him because He first loved us." 1 John 4:19.

I am Jesus' little lamb,

Washed in Jesus' blood I am;

Now I'm sheltered from all harm,

Hallelujah.

Messages of God’s Love 1/3/1926

A Child's Hymn

Gentle Jesus, meek and mild,

Look upon a little child;

Thou would'st have me come to Thee,

And Thine own dear lamb to be.

Fain I would by Thee be brought,

Gracious Lord, though I am naught,

In the kingdom of Thy grace,

Thou wilt give Thy child a place.

Thou would'st have me richly blest

In Thy love and righteousness;

Keep me safe from every ill,

Keep me to fulfill Thy will.

Then I shall so happy be,

Loving, serving, learning Thee;

Till I see Thy glorious face,

Radiant in that blissful place.

Messages of God’s Love 1/3/1926

Jonah and the Whale

THOSE who assail the truths and teachings of the Bible have always sought to place the account of "Jonah and the Whale" in the class of not only the improbable, but of the impossible. In the first place, the Bible narrative does not say that it was a whale, but a "great fish", but even so-called scientists who claim that it would be impossible for a whale to swallow a man, have evidence against them. "The Literary Digest" of New York, in Volume 12 No. 3, page 681, which was issued April 4th, 1896, shows that even in recent years whales have swallowed men.

In the month of February 1891, a whaling vessel cruising in the Mediterranean Sea, not greatly distant from the coast of Palestine, indeed, one might almost say in the very waters, where Jonah was cast overboard, this whaling ship, "The Star of the East", the account narrates, "launched two whale boats with an equipment of men to pursue a superb whale that was observed at some distance. The huge creature was harpooned and wounded to death. While it was writhing in its last agonies, one of the whale boats was struck by its tail and shattered in pieces.

The sailors who were in it were thrown into the water. All but two were saved shortly by the other boat. The body of one was recovered, but the other, a man named James Bartley could not be found. When the monster had ceased moving and its death was quite certain, it was hoisted alongside the ship, and the work of cutting it up began. A day and a night were devoted to this task. When it was ended, the stomach of the whale was opened. What was the surprise of the whalemen to find in it their lost comrade, James Bartley, unconscious, but alive! They had much trouble in reviving him. For several days he was delirious and could not speak an intelligent word. Not till three weeks had elapsed did he recover his reason and was he able to narrate his impressions. He said "I remember very well the moment the whale threw me into the air, then I was swallowed and found myself enclosed in a firm, slippery channel whose contractions forced me continually downward. This lasted only an instant. Then I found myself in a very large sack, and by feeling about I realized that I had been swallowed by a whale and that I was in his stomach. I could still breathe, though with much difficulty.

I had a feeling of unsupportable heat, and it seemed as if I were boiled alive. The horrible thought that I was doomed to perish in the whale's stomach, and my anguish was intensified by the calm and silence that reigned about me. Finally I lost the consciousness of my frightful situation."

James Bartley, the English papers said, in the accounts published at that time, is known to be the most hardy of whalemen, but the experience in the whale's stomach was so terrible that he was obliged to undergo treatment in a London hospital on his return. Nevertheless his general state of health was not seriously affected by the incident. The only effect was that his skin was, as it were, tanned by the action of the gastric juices. The Captain of "The Star of the East" adds, that cases where furious whales have swallowed men, are not rare, but that this was the first time he ever saw the victim come out alive after his experience.

But it is not necessary, in order to disprove the contention of the adversaries of the Scripture to show that the swallowing of Jonah by a great fish or by a whale, was ordinarily possible. Even if we admit their contention, it only heightens the manifestations of Divine power when we lift the whole subject into the realm of the miraculous. It would be ridiculous to deny to the Almighty Creator, that in this instance lie should have made an exception and created a great fish for a special purpose. If man with his limited capacities and powers, can build ships in which to transport live cattle from one continent to another; if, with ingenuity that is only human he is able to construct boats, that, at will, can either float upon the surface or sink beneath the waves and be navigated under the direction of the human will of those who are being preserved and whose bodies are being transported beneath the waves by their own skillful device, would it not be both absurd and ridiculous to deny the Infinite, All Wise and Almighty Creator, the power which He exercised in the preservation, transportation and safe delivery of His prophet that he might do the Divine bidding, and save the multitudes who dwelt in the city of Nineveh?

"NOW THE LORD HAD PREPARED A GREAT FISH TO SWALLOW UP JONAH." Jonah 1:17.

Messages of God’s Love 1/10/1926

Bible Lessons

Judges 15

Another exploit of Samson's, more destructive of the enemies of God's people than the former one, provokes the Philistines exceedingly. They came to take Samson and the circumstance shows the condition of the nation which God had adopted. "Knowest thou not," the three thousand of Judah said to Samson, "that the Philistines are rulers over us? What is this that thou hast done to us?"

The Spirit of God did not arouse the people to dispossess the enemy as He had done in the times of Gideon, of Barak and others, and they would give this separated man up to the Philistines in order to keep peace with them. So Samson was delivered up by his own people, as afterward Jesus, the true Nazarite, was delivered up by those whom He came to save.

Again the Spirit of the Lord came mightily on Samson, and a thousand of the Philistines were killed with an instrument so contemptible as the jawbone of an ass.

It is when Samson is a separated man, and now more particularly when he is given up by his brethren, that he is strongest against the enemy. In this again he is a picture, however faint in outline, of the rejected Jesus, Who in the day of His resurrection said to His little band of devoted ones who shared His rejection, "All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth" (Matthew 28:18). And again, it is written of Him, "When He ascended up on high, He led captivity captive." Ephesians 4:8.

The end of the chapter gives us a prayer and its answer. Samson owns that the "great deliverance" was God's, and asks for and obtains water for his thirst out of the dead instrument of power. It appears that now for a season the Philistines withdrew to some extent, and Samson was careful to seek no immediate alliance with them. Separation was again his portion.

Messages of God’s Love 1/10/1926

Come

DEAR children, stop a moment, and think how often you have heard this word of welcome to the Saviour!

Many, many times He has called you to come to Him, has He not?

I want you to ask yourself another question: What did it cost Jesus to say "Come"? Do you know it cost Him His life? Long, long ago, soon after Adam sinned, and was "sent forth," "driven out" (Gen. 3:23,24) from the light and the love of God's presence, the way back became impossible; utterly impossible, because angels kept that way with a flaming sword, so that none could pass by. But, although God was perfectly just in sending sinners out of His presence, yet He loved us, and He longed to dwell with us again—God's love to us was so strong. I must tell you the greatest proof of it.

In His presence dwelt His Son, pure, holy, spotless, God's great delight (Prow. 8:30). Should He send His Son to die for sinners, to shed His blood for the remission of their sin? Would the Son stoop to this? (2 Cor. 8:9.)

You know the answer the Son of God gave: "Lo, I come to do Thy will, O God." God's desire was that "all men" should "be saved." So the Lord Jesus came. He made Himself of no reputation ... . He humbled Himself, and became obedient to the death of the cross (Phil. 2:7,8). "While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us" (Rom. 5:8). He ... . obtained eternal redemption for us (Heb. 9:12). Who loved me, and gave Himself for me (Gal. 2:20). Then He became the Way (John 14:6), and the Door (John 10:9) back to the light and the love of the Esther's home: And nothing stands between us and God today, but Jesus (1 Tim. 2:15); and one word alone is spoken—that word is "Come" (Rev. 22:17).

O! word of words the sweetest,

O! word in which there lies

All promise, all fulfilment,

And end of mystery.

Dear reader, Jesus says, "Come", to you.

Jesus wants you to come. It was for this He died. Will you come?

O! hear His tender pleading!

"Come, children, come!

Come, and receive the blessing!

Come, children, come!"

While Jesus whispers to you, "Come, children, come!" While we are praying for you, "Come, children, come!"

Messages of God’s Love 1/10/1926

Why Little Daisy Loved Jesus

DAISY K. was only a little girl of seven years old—such a happy, rosy-cheeked child, and she loved fun as much as any little girl I know. One evening as we were coming home from our children's service, and she was skipping along at my side, I asked her, "Does my little friend Daisy love Jesus?"

"O, yes," she said, "I do."

"But why do you love Him?" I asked.

She looked up in my face as if quite surprised I should ask such a question, and then, with a bright, happy smile on her face, and in a tone full of glad certainty, she said, "Why do I love Jesus? Because He loved me so much before I loved Him, and He died for me."

What a sweet answer! Happy little Daisy! She knows the meaning of that beautiful text, "We love Him because He first loved us." 1 John 4:19. He loved us "while we were yet sinners" (Rom. 5:8), and made us nigh by His own blood. (Eph. 2:13.)

Dear child, have you ever thought that it was to give you life eternal that Christ died; it was to give you the light of life that He endured those hours of intense darkness; it was that you might have joy unspeakable that He went through such sorrow? Have you ever begun to search out the love of God the Father in giving His Son, and the love—the strong, deep love of Jesus—in coming to die for you and me? If you have not, do begin at once, for, if you feel weary, it will give rest; lonely, it will give comfort as nothing in this world ever can.

Is your heart growing cold, little Christian? There is nothing can set our hearts on fire like His love. Do you feel discouraged over your work—cast down by the little troubles of daily life? There is no power that can send us forward, and encourage even the most timid soldier, like the thought of His love—the remembrance of His goodness in the past. O, may this love of Christ so penetrate into every corner of your heart that you may be able truthfully to say, like dear little Daisy: "Yes, I do love Him"!

Messages of God’s Love 1/10/1926

Let The Little Children Come

Let the little children come,

Let them come to Me!

There is room for everyone,

There is room for thee!

I have died for little ones,

Sinners though they be;

God will call them His own sons,

If they come to Me.

God has loved the children dear.

So He gave His Son;

To Himself to bring them near,

Come then, little ones!

Soon I will return again,

All Mine own to take;

Where no sorrow is, nor pain;

E'en the dead I'll wake.

With Myself and like Me, too,

Beautiful and glad;

All My glory they shall view,

None shall e'er be sad.

Messages of God’s Love 1/10/1926

The Visit to Grandfather

WHAT a joy to the heart of the dear old grandfather, to have his daughter and dear little grandchild visit him in his quaint old home. The Lord, we trust, has taken the dear old grandmother to Himself, and now grandfather is alone in the home, except when one and another of his children come to visit him. His calm, bright face tells of a deeper joy than that which earth can give.

He knows Whom he has believed, and puts his trust in a living God, who gives peace and quietness, and now with his dear ones, before partaking of their meal, can lift up his heart in thanksgiving to God, his Father, for what He has provided for them.

I am sure little boys and girls love their dear grandparents very much, and delight in doing all they can for them. You know, dear ones, there are many things you can do for the dear aged ones, who were once young and bright like yourselves, but now in declining years, are growing feeble, and it is your privilege to think of them in every way. All this is pleasing to God.

I am sure many of you have happy recollections of your dear grandparents, and can thank God today for the many Bible stories they have told you, and for the reading of His Word too. When the truth is being brought before you, dear children, never turn from it, but accept it for yourself. It is the Gospel of God's grace, and "the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth."

Jesus died in your stead, His precious blood was shed that your sins might be washed away, and you made fit for His presence. Will you come to Him, Now?

"HIM THAT COMETH TO ME, I WILL IN NO WISE CAST OUT." John 6:37.

Messages of God’s Love 1/17/1926

Bible Lessons

Judges 16

Pitifully sad is the story of Samson, called to be a Nazarite—one separated to God,—but again and again seeking gratification for his desires among the enemies of God instead of making war against them. This is always a Christian's danger. To yield to the constant pressure to ally oneself with the world, and thus going on with conduct opposed to the believer's true character, always brings disappointment, and the world at heart despises such worldly Christians. Samson showed his strength in freeing himself from the trap set for him in Gaza, but what excuse had he for being there, with such a character given him as chapter 13 discloses?

Verse 4 begins the last and most sorrowful section of Samson's history. Again he seeks enjoyment in the Philistine world, his heart going out after one of the enemies of the people and of God. We see no real affection on Delilah's part toward Samson; rather is she working with the lords of the Philistines to accomplish his downfall. Money was her object in part (verse 5), and God is not in her thoughts. Acknowledging his great strength (which the Philistines had felt and feared) all her artifices are employed to find how Samson got it, that she might take it away, and finally Delilah succeeds, for (verse 17) Samson at last told her "all his heart."

All attempts were powerless while Samson maintained his Nazariteship; this once lost, Samson was apparently as strong, but God was departed from Him (verse 20). He had despised the precious position in which divine grace had placed him, and, in the discipline of God, lost his sight forever.

Yet God remembered His own glory, and His poor failing servant suffering under the chastening his sin had brought him. Samson's strength too returns as God is before his mind. The opportunity is given to destroy the great house full of men and women and the lords of the Philistines,—more falling on that occasion at Samson's hand than in his free days, but he had to perish himself in the judgment. He had identified himself with the world, and he must share in its judgment. What a warning to those who, having believed in Jesus to the salvation of their souls, the true Christians, are exposed to the temptations of the world! May God Himself speak to all who are His, that they may seek to maintain the Nazariteship which is theirs by God's ordination. It is not a question of losing eternal life, which cannot be, but of unfaithfulness to God in identification with the world, involving the loss of spiritual strength and eyesight, and removal in judgment from this scene.

As to the unsaved, it is again our solemn duty to call, attention to the certainty of God's unsparing eternal judgment on those who neglect so great salvation as has been wrought by His Son's sin-atoning death. Delay no longer; turn to Jesus!

Messages of God’s Love 1/17/1926

His Right Name

HOW eager children are to run after anything that is being given away in the street. I was in the district of W— with a friend of mine some few years back, giving away gospel books, after which we held a children's meeting on the grass.

We had not been in the district for such a purpose before, so our first meeting was very well attended.

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

Sad to say, children are among the number today who are very careless as to their souls. They will give every attention to their games, but they take a good deal of persuading, sometimes, to come and listen to the story of Jesus and His love.

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

I met two girls and handed one to both of them, and stood chatting with them, when up ran a little boy, brother to one of the girls. I said to him, "Well! Tommy, would you like a book?" While I was giving him, one his sister remarked, "You have called him by his right name."

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

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

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

Well now, dear children, do you know His voice? Are you among

The sinners, or the sheep?

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

"All have sinned and come short of the glory of God." Romans 3:23.

"Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners." 1 Tim. 1:15.

Messages of God’s Love 1/17/1926

Jesus Alone Can Save

SOME time ago a dear Christian friend related an incident that occurred near the village of P, which reminded me of sinners who have been trying all they can by good deeds to reach heaven, but at last find that all their good works are of no avail, and that their only resource is by faith to cast themselves on Christ.

My friend happened to be passing a mill lake, and noticed that two sheep had by some means or other got into the water and were struggling to get out.

He went to the side at which the sheep were and stretched his arms to take them out, but they immediately swam to the other side and made efforts of their own to get out. Fortunately one of them was newly shorn, and being thus lighter could move more freely, and was able to get to the bank by itself; the other sheep was kept down by the weight of its wool, and to whichever side my friend went to help it out, it as surely went to the other.

At last realizing that it was helpless, it crossed over right to where he was, as if to say, "Take me out." He bent down and gently lifted up the helpless creature and laid it safely on the ground.

This sheep and its wool are like a sinner and his sins. They weigh you down and exclude all possibility of gaining heaven. As the sheep must inevitably have perished had it not turned to its rescuer, so you, my dear reader, must perish for ever unless you turn in your helplessness to Jesus He alone can save.

Why not flee to Him for safety NOW.

Messages of God’s Love 1/17/1926

He Knows and Loves Us Still

HOW many little ones, yes, and bigger ones too, can enter into the feelings of a little girl I want to speak of.

She had been sent, at her own request, to a boarding-school, and, having a willful and naughty temper, was soon in disgrace with all there.

One day, having been unusually rebellious, she was banished from her schoolfellows for the rest of the day. The following morning she was utterly ashamed to meet any one, and remained in her room as long as she dared. Reaching the dining-room, however, she was greatly surprised to be greeted with a kind "Good morning" from someone seated there.

"Ah!" she thought, "he does not know about me, how naughty I have been, or he would not speak to me."

She afterwards found he did know, and he held a warm place in her heart after that.

Children, are you afraid to meet God because He knows all about you? Do you wish He did not know? Listen then, He knows and loves you still. No sinful thought or deed is unknown by God, but He sent His own dear Son to die for the naughty ones, like you and me, and Jesus bore the punishment for us.

"O, 'twas love, 'twas wondrous love!
The love of God to me;
It brought my Saviour from above,
To die on Calvary."

If we can sing these lines with our hearts, then we can thank Him that He knows all about us and loves us still.

Messages of God’s Love 1/17/1926

The Two Masters

1 Sam. 30:1-19.

I once had a master,

He kept me a slave,

He held me in bondage,

No rest could he give.

He left me to perish

When weak I became;

Such, such was his treatment,

And Satan his name.

When lost my condition

The Saviour passed by;

He pitied my misery,

He heard my sad cry;

He told me He loved me,

And died on the tree,

That He might redeem me,

His servant to be.

And now I've a Master,

And Christ is His name;

He gave Himself for me;

He's ever the same.

Soon, soon He is coming,

To call me above;

Then I shall behold Him,

And bask in His love.

Lord, while here awaiting

Thine advent so bright,

Be Thou my sole Object,

Thy will my delight;

Thy word my direction,

Thy Spirit my Friend;

Thine arm my protection,

Thy glory my end.

Messages of God’s Love 1/17/1926

The Grey Wolf

THERE is no animal, outside of the domestic, more generally known than the wolf, as it is found in every part of the world.

In our picture we see them out on the cold snow hunting for food, and no doubt they will find it very difficult to find any, but we know God takes care of all His creatures in one way or another.

The way the wolf is described in Scripture is as ravening and seeking its prey in the evening. It is very destructive among sheep, destroying more than it can eat. This makes the wolf a fit emblem of the wicked, who molest the sheep and lambs of God's

In the millennium (or one thousand years) when the Lord Jesus will reign over the earth, and Satan shall be bound, "The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf, and the young lion, and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them." Isaiah 11:6.

What a change that will be from the present time. At the present, these poor creatures are under Satan's power, and that is the reason they are ravenous, and when people hate those who belong to the Lord, they are under the power of Satan too. Do you love the Lord's people?

"WE KNOW THAT WE HAVE PASSED FROM DEATH UNTO LIFE, BECAUSE WE LOVE THE BRETHREN." 1 John 3:14.

Messages of God’s Love 1/24/1926

Bible Lessons

Judges 17

We have finished with the Judges, in the order of time, and now are turned back to see the sad state of the people of Israel from near the beginning of the period with which this book is concerned.

Idolatry was there, even a "house of gods" (verse 5), where the name of the true God was professed (verses 2, 3 and 13). Micah had stolen eleven hundred silver pieces from his mother, but confessed it and restored the silver to her; with two hundred an image was made, as it appears, partly moulded, partly "graven". It is referred to in chapter 18 as Micah's graven image. Probably the pedestal was moulded, and the image proper completed by hand work. Idolatry had been forbidden in the second of the ten commandments (Exodus 20:4 and Deut. 5:8), and in at least eight other passages in Exodus, Leviticus and Deuteronomy.

The ephod (verse 5) was a garment worn by the priests of the Lord, but we have already noticed that Gideon (chapter 8:27) made one out of the gold, the ornaments, and the purple garments taken from the Midianites, and that this became a snare to him and to his family and to the people of Israel. Micah's case seems worse, considerably. The teraphim were probably home idols—images used in idol worship. One of Micah's sons, quite in disregard of God's order regarding the sons of Aaron, was made his priest until a young Levite came from Bethlehem-Judah. This young man Micah invited to live with him) and be his priest for a yearly wage.

Everything seems to have been undertaken without the authority of God's Word, yet God's name was attached to it all as though He approved it, and the Levite, who should have known the mind of God perhaps better than Micah, went with him and seems to have been the ground of Micah's confidence (verse 13) that the Lord will do him good. Can we expect good from God if we pay no attention to His Word?

How opposite Micah's course was to the character expressed in the first Psalm concerning one whose "delight is in the law of the Lord and he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water . . . . and whatever he doeth shall prosper."

The only right course for anyone at any time is to be found in the Bible, written there for the guidance of those who have believed in the Lord Jesus to the salvation of their souls.

Messages of God’s Love 1/24/1926

Katie

A MERRY crowd of school_girls were playing with their skipping ropes on the street, when a runaway horse came dashing along into the midst of the circle, trampling two or three of the smaller girls beneath his feet, before they had time to escape. All were more or less hurt; but one nice girl, whose name was Katie, was so badly bruised and otherwise injured, that her life was despaired of. She was taken to the hospital, followed by a crowd of weeping playmates, who were told by the doctor, as he came out at the gate, that Katie was "very ill", and would never be able to skip with them anymore.

For many weary weeks she lay in the long ward, unable to be moved in her bed, and during all that time she suffered much pain. It was a great joy to her when the kind doctor promised, that if she continued to make progress, she would be allowed to "sit up" in her bed, on the following Sunday afternoon.

Katie had been raised up, and was enjoying the change, when a little band of young women came into the ward, each carrying a Bible and hymn-book in their hand. After a short visit to each of the sufferers, leaving a nice bunch of flowers, with a Scripture text tied around it, and speaking a few kind words, they sat down together and sang several Gospel hymns. Then one read a portion of Scripture, and before parting they sang the hymn beginning—

"Sinners, Jesus will receive."

Katie was greatly delighted. It so reminded her of happy days at the Sunday school, when she was able to walk to her class, with her little sister by her side. She wondered if they would ever come again, and was anxious for the next Lord's-day afternoon to come. About the same hour, the young women came, bringing a fresh lot of wild flowers, with a new text tied around, which one of them asked Katie if she would "try to learn and be able to say, the following Lord's-day?"

This Katie promised to do, saying it would "just be like Sunday-school to have her text to say."

Just before leaving her side, the visitor clasped Katie's hand, so thin and white, and tenderly asked,

"Do you know Katie, that your sins are forgiven, and can you say that Jesus has saved you?"

To this Katie made no reply, but seemed taken back, and the visitor wisely left the word spoken to do its own work.

After they were gone, and Katie was all alone, she lay thinking of the visitor's question, and wondered how she could be sure that "Jesus had saved her"? Nobody had ever asked her such a question before, and she had never heard anybody say that Jesus had saved them. She wished for Lord's-day more than ever now, when she hoped to hear still more about having her "sins forgiven" and being "saved".

Prompt at the time, the visitors came, and this time one had a long and interesting conversation with Katie. It was evident that the Spirit of God was showing her that she was a sinner in need of a Saviour, and that although yet in darkness, she was groping for the way of life, and really anxious to be saved. Many Scriptures were read; among others, Isaiah 53:6; "All we like sheep have gone astray."

"Is that you, Katie?" asked the visitor, after reading the sentence. "Have you gone astray?"

"Yes," said Katie quietly, "I have."

"And turned everyone to his own way," continued the visitor. "Have you done that, Katie?"

"Yes," said Katie again.

Now listen to the next part of the verse. It tells, not what Katie has done to God, but what God has done for Katie. "And the Lord hath laid on Him (Jesus) the iniquity of us all."

"You know, Katie dear," continued the visitor, "that Jesus had no sin of His own, but He so loved you that He came down from heaven, that He might take your sins upon Him, and suffer their punishment in your stead. The verse tells us that Jehovah laid our sins upon Him; and another in the same chapter, that 'He was wounded for our transgressions'—and all this that Katie might go free."

Katie sat drinking in every word of the wondrous story, so new to her, so wonderful too. She saw now how she could be saved, and how her sins could be forgiven—it was all through Jesus; all because of what He did for her,—all for His sake. Her weary soul rested on His finished work, and she knew that "by His stripes" she was "healed." Her heart was filled with peace, and her pale face beamed with the joy of her heart. It was the joy of God's salvation: that joy that every sinner believing on the Lord Jesus shares —the first sip of heaven upon earth.

Katie's days were full of sunshine now, and she had a word to speak for Jesus to all. Under her pillow she kept a little bundle of tracts, which she gave to companions and playmates who came to see her. It was nearly six months before Katie could leave the hospital. Even then she had to walk on crutches; but her life as a Christian was not in vain. Many a small bouquet of wild flowers did she gather, tying her favorite text around them, "Isaiah 53:6," to be given to weary ones, like as she was before she knew that "The Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all."

Messages of God’s Love 1/24/1926

The Love of Jesus

A YOUNG woman went to a meeting where she heard the children's hymn:

"I am so glad that our Father in Heaven

Tells of His love in the Book He has given:

Wonderful things in the Bible I see—

This is the dearest, that Jesus loves me.

I am so glad that Jesus loves me,

Jesus loves me, Jesus loves even me."

While this hymn was being sung she began to feel for the first time in her life that she was a sinner. All her sins came up in array before her; and so numerous and aggravated did her sins appear, that she imagined that she could never be saved.

"The Lord Jesus cannot love me," she said in her heart; "He cannot love a sinner such as me."

She went home in a state of great sorrow, and did not sleep that night. She earnestly sought relief in her distress, and learned to her astonishment and her joy that the Lord Jesus could love sinners, that He did love sinners—nay, that He does still love sinners. She saw in the light of the Word of God that it was for sinners that Jesus died and for none other. When she learned this she, too, began to sing:

"I am so glad that Jesus loves me,

Jesus loves me, Jesus loves even me."

and became in every respect a consistent disciple of the Lord.

"I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance." Matt. 9:13.

Messages of God’s Love 1/24/1926

Come Now, Dear Children, to the Cross

Come now, dear children, to the cross,

The Saviour bids you come,

Come trusting in His precious blood,

Wait not—there still is room.

O! why delay your long return?

List to the Spirit's voice,

Yield to the One who died for you,

And make Him now your choice.

He waits to fill your soul with joy,

And all your sins forgive,

His love for you no tongue can tell,

O! trust His grace and live.

Messages of God’s Love 1/24/1926

Thinking

WHAT is the dear little girl in the picture thinking about? You may guess. I may guess. But we don't know. She would tell us if she wished to, but we cannot find out in any other way. We cannot read each other's thoughts. We may know from the expression on a face whether the thoughts are happy or unhappy—whether they are kind or unkind. But we cannot always tell that much, for many a person can, by effort, wear a smiling, pleasant face, beneath which are hidden sorrow, pain, and bitterness.

But, my dear reader, there is One who does know every thought of yours,— every thought of mine. Job said, in speaking of God,

"NO THOUGHT CAN BE WITHHOLDEN FROM THEE." JOB 42:2.

If we are filled with thoughts of Christ —if we are seeking to please Him; seeking to serve Him; seeking to know Him more and more by studying His word and thinking about it,—the things that would displease Him are crowded out. There is no room for them.

May we be "filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Christ Jesus unto the glory and praise of God." Phil. 1:11.

Messages of God’s Love 1/31/1926

Bible Lessons

Judges 18

Here we are in the district where Samson was born and lived (see chapter 13, verses 2 and 25), but earlier than his time, as it would appear (see Joshua 19:47).

The tribe of Dan seek their inheritance, sending out five valiant men to search out the land. These came to Micah's house, and finding the young Levite there, they asked him to inquire of God about the success of their trip. The Levite, apparently without seeking to learn God's mind, told them to go in peace; their way he said was before the Lord. The Danites then go on to Laish (in Joshua 19:47 called Leshem) in the far north, and return to tell their brethren its capture is easy, the land spacious and very productive.

Verse 14 seems to indicate that the use of idols was not then limited to Micah and his family, of the children of Israel. How ready man is and has ever been to turn from the living and true God! By show of force, Micah's instruments of idolatry and his man-constituted priest were carried away to serve the desires of the six hundred warriors bound for Laish, the priest being indeed glad to go with them. There is no mention of God as being on the side of the children of Dan in this expedition; how could God act for them when their security lay in idols and other devices of their own? If we compare the account in verses 27, 28 with the conquests of Joshua's day when God was with His people in power, and they were measurably obedient to Him, the difference is evident.

Naming the city Dan, after the name of their father, seems a parallel case to the act of Cain, that first fruit of a sinful parentage, in going away from the presence of God to a distant land, and there building a city which he named after his son (Gen. 4:16, 17). Cain knew nothing he reckoned more worthy of memory than this (for God was not in his thoughts), and so exalted man, upon whom God's judgment had been expressed and would inevitably fall.

The children of Dan take however a further step, setting up the image which Micah had made, and establishing a spurious priesthood of their own, founded upon a descent from the honored leader Moses, but nevertheless independent of the order which God had established of the sons of Aaron. Here again we may observe a similarity to what God had provided; the Danites were religious, but far from God and disobedient to His Word. We are told prophetically that this priesthood continued "until the day of the captivity of the land" (verse 30)—no doubt the time when the Assyrians carried away the ten tribes (2 Kings 17:6).

Micah's image was set up all the time that the house of God was in Shiloh, which brings the record down to Samuel's day. Among these people God raised up Samson. He would not leave the world without a testimony to Himself, but how little heeded!

Reader, have you peace with God? All is not well with this world, and its judgment has been foretold in the Bible, not once, but many times. Flee from the wrath to come!

Messages of God’s Love 1/31/1926

Adventures in the Woods

A PERSON with whom I am acquainted, was in the habit of paying an occasional visit to an extensive woods, with the object of shooting game, or fishing in the lakes. On one occasion

he and another person started early in the morning to spend the day together in that manner, taking with them their revolvers and fishing tackle, as well as a supply of provisions. During the freshness of the morning they walked a considerable distance, not meeting with a single human being all the way. They then sat down under some trees, and, while resting themselves, partook of the refreshments which they had brought.

After this, the younger of them, wishing to reach a certain lake, in which it was reported there was abundance of fish, left his companion in order to go in search of it, though advised by him not to do so. But, as he was bent upon making the attempt, his friend, who was the more experienced, gave him strict injunctions not to lose sight of certain waymarks, which he pointed out to him. They then parted, making arrangements as to where they should meet in an hour or two. The elder one, who is my informant, did not venture far from the spot from which they separated; and he told me that, when he was left by himself, the sense of loneliness and silence was so intense that he felt quite oppressed by it, though he is by no means a fearful man. It being then about midday, the heat was very great, even the animals were quiet, doubtless enjoying a tranquil repose.

The young man, being thus by himself and under no restraint, started off in high spirits, and soon forgot the warning which his friend had given; for, fancying that he could see the object of his desire at a short distance from him, he pressed on with ardor to reach it, and lost sight of the marks which were to serve as signposts to him. But, after all, he did not find the lake, which, like the mirage, seemed to retreat farther from him the more he strove to reach it.

At length, to his dismay, he awoke to the fact that he was lost in the depths of the woods, and a feeling of wretchedness then came over him. He shouted out again and again, at the top of his voice, but heard only the mocking of its echo in reply. He fired off some of the charges of his revolver, but the reports brought no return, either from friend or foe. He then climbed a lofty pine tree, in the hope that he might see from thence some trace of human habitation, or at all events discover some way out of the woods; but in vain, for all that he could see was an apparently interminable forest.

The day, by this time, was fast declining, and the idea of passing the night alone in such a place, when, among other animals, the puma and the bear might be ranging abroad, was dreadful to him. He walked about hither and thither, without guide or compass, not knowing which way to turn.

At length, however, after wandering about for some hours, he, through the mercy of God, had the inexpressible pleasure of meeting his friend and again looking him in the face. That friend had himself felt much alarm on his account, and was delighted to see him, even though it was then late in the evening, and they still had a long way to go. The young man, who was much exhausted, was greatly refreshed by some milk which his friend then gave him. It was very late when they reached home, and it was some days before he was thoroughly recovered. He used often afterwards to say that, if he had not partaken of that milk, he believed that he should have died.

If it is so dreadful to be lost in the woods like this young man, who would take his own way, and, contrary to his friend's advice, go in search of the object of his heart's desire, which, as we have seen, he never reached; how much more fearful it is for one to be lost as a sinner, turning away from the only One who can save, pursuing the downward course of self-will, pleasure-seeking and unbelief, ending in "everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord"!

But, on the other hand, how blessed it is for one who is lost, and who is made conscious that he cannot, by any effort of his own, find a way to escape from his terrible condition, to know that Jesus came both to seek and to save that which was lost!

"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. Such is the language which they who have fled to Jesus for refuge, and who are "found in Him," through believing on His name, are now privileged to utter, in thankfulness of heart to the praise of God our Saviour, who sent His only-begotten Son into the world that we "might live through Him."

"Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy, and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price." Isa. 55:1.

Messages of God’s Love 1/31/1926

God Knows Best

SOME months ago a friend of mine was visiting a child who was very ill. Her mother was saying how hard it was that she should suffer so much, when the little girl interrupted her, saying,

"God knows best, mother."

Do you pity her, children? You need not, for I am sure that in the midst of her pain and weariness she was calm and happy, knowing that

"A Father's hand will never cause

His child a needless tear."

Some of you who love the Lord may have had long and painful illnesses, and perhaps you have been tempted to think that He does not care for you; but have you ever thought that by bearing that illness patiently you may bring glory to the name of that Saviour, who loves you and who will never forgets you?

Remember the words of that little girl,

"God knows best."

"The mountains shall depart, and the hills be removed; but My kindness shall not depart from thee .. ..saith the Lord." Isa. 54:10.

Messages of God’s Love 1/31/1926

God Is Good

How many children now are stretched

Upon the bed of pain,

Where many weary, restless hours,

In sorrow they have lain.

How many children hungry are

With scarcely food to eat;

Who beg their humble, scanty store, F

From those they chance to meet.

Yet here we are, in health and strength,

All satisfied with food;

How kind, indeed, is God to us—

How very, very good!

O surely this, His goodness great

Should make us think of Him;

For we deserve not at His hands

The very least of them.

But more He gives us; greater love

The Lord to us has shown;

The greatest gift that He has given

Is His beloved Son.

And never can true thanks ascend

For aught that we receive, -

For health or daily food, unless

We in His name believe.

Messages of God’s Love 1/31/1926

Bible Questions for February

Answers to Bible Questions for December

1. "Now I beseech you," etc. 1 Corinthians 1:10.

2. "Now therefore there," etc. 6:7.

3. "But when ye sin," etc. 8:12

4. "There hath no," etc. " 10:13.

5. "For I have received," etc. " 11:23.

6. "Let all things be," etc. " 14:40.

7. "In a moment, in," etc. " 15:52.

Bible Questions for February

The Answers are to be found in Gal., Eph., Phil., and Col.

Write in full the verse containing the words, "That shall he also reap."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Singing with grace."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "By grace are ye saved."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "This is right."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "His glorious body."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "To die is gain."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "No man is justified."

Messages of God’s Love 2/7/1926

Bible Lessons

Judges 19

In the 17th and 18th chapters we were given a picture of the inner life of the tribe of 'Dan in the north; now we are to see the character of the tribe of Benjamin in the south, during the times of the Judges. In the former case the religious character of things among the Israelites was emphasized in the present one,—their moral character is exposed.

"When there was no king in Israel" (verse 1),—God was their King, but Israel' was self-willed and without a visible ruler they took up with anything their minds suggested and their hearts desired. How the patience of God must have been tried by the ways and thoughts of those who professed to be His people.

A Levite,—-one of that family set apart by God for His service (Numbers 3 and 4)—following a practice which then perhaps was common, but can never have received God's approval any more than divorce being permitted "because of the hardness of their hearts" (Matt. 19:3-9) took a concubine,—a secondary wife. Going on in sin this woman left her husband and returned to her father's house; there the Levite went to persuade her to return to him. The woman's father was glad to meet him, and got him to stay there several days. Leaving in the afternoon of the fifth day on their way north, the little party passed the future Jerusalem, then called Jebus, and went on to Gibeah, the birthplace of Saul. What followed reminds us of that city in which Lot had his home (Gen. 19), on which judgment fell unsparingly when God's forbearance would wait no longer.

Sometimes we are moved to ask ourselves on account of the present state of the people of God, what difference is there between many Christians and the godless world? Believers are to be not conformed to this world; but be transformed by the renewing of their mind that they may prove what is the good, and acceptable, and perfect will of God (Romans 12:2).

But here in the inspired record of the book of Judges is the sad record of the will of man—men away from God, who did not like to retain God in their knowledge and were given over to a reprobate mind (Romans 1:28). Moved by the high-handed violence and unrestraint of the wicked men of Gibeah, the Levite, reaching home with the dead body of his concubine cut her body in twelve pieces and sent it to all the borders of Israel, arousing the feeling of the nation to a high pitch as the next chapter will show.

The world today is steadily forging toward the time, when man for a short time will be permitted to do as he pleases —really as the devil directs, for he is the god and prince of this world, the Word of God tells us. When that hour is reached, violence will be prevalent to a far greater degree than now, and the unsparing judgment of God will fall.

Happily for those who are trusting in Jesus and His blood. They will be gone to be with Him when that dreadful day comes, and it is near.

Messages of God’s Love 2/7/1926

A Contrite Heart

DEAR Girls and Boys, no doubt you are all familiar with the text,

"The sacrifices of God are a broken spirit; a broken and a contrite heart, 0 God, Thou wilt not despise" Psa. 51:17. But have you ever thought, how often the Lord has to smite us, just to bring us to Himself, with a contrite and broken heart?

Many years ago, a loving mother was earnestly speaking to her daughter of God's love, and of the necessity of her coming to the decision of receiving the Lord Jesus as her Saviour, so that she might have Him as her Friend through life. She was just about to enter a home of her own, and her dear mother was desirous that she should put Christ first.

The daughter, like many others, thought she would have to give up her many pleasures in this world, and not being prepared for this, reasoned that these things were all very good for old people, but that young folks must enjoy their youth. How subtle is Satan, and how he endeavors to hold the young hearts for himself, and how the young are inclined to listen to him.

But her dear mother's pleadings with her, were all of no avail,—she still turned a deaf ear.

That mother had never again to speak to her daughter of a Saviour, but God spoke to her with a loud voice. Just three days after, on going into her mother's bedroom, She found the dear one lying cold in death. She had been suddenly called Home.

Ah; her mother's teaching came to her mind. She was indeed broken-hearted, and sought to lead a good life, but it was up hill work. For a few days all went fairly well, and then some temptation would come, and down she would fall again. She was just about to give up in despair, when, one day, she heard preaching from the word,

"I am the Way".

After explaining that Jesus was the only way to the Father, the preacher turned in the direction of the young girl, and, as if addressing her, said,

"Young woman, have you been trying to get to heaven in your own way? O, give it up, and take God's way—simply trust in the merits and death of the Lord Jesus Christ."

Sitting there, at that moment, she yielded at once to Him who died to redeem her.

We entreat you, dear ones, to come and share in our joy of knowing "Whose we are, and Whom we serve".

"God speaketh once, yea twice, yet man perceiveth it not." Job. 33:14.

"BEHOLD, NOW,IS THEACCEPTED TIME; BEHOLD, NOW IS THE DAY OF SALVATION." 2 Cor. 6:2.

Messages of God’s Love 2/7/1926

A Squirrel's Sermon

MANY years ago, there lived a shepherd boy who, having to feed his sheep every Sunday morning, got into the bad habit of spending the rest of the day in idling about the town with other boys. This not only led to his entirely neglecting to hear the Word of God preached, but to many evil ways besides. But John's conscience was uneasy, for he had been early taught to know better, and he often went about with his companions in anything but a happy state of mind.

Well, one Sunday morning, when going, as usual, to look after the sheep, he happened to spy a squirrel in a tree on the hill-side, sitting on a bough with his two fore paws raised together before his little face, as squirrels often sit when eating an acorn or a nut. Now, it happened that John had just been thinking over his evil ways, and as he gazed upward at the little animal, it suddenly struck him that the squirrel was praying. Poor John was a very ignorant boy, and, considering that he had lived all his lifetime in the country, he ought to have known the habits of squirrels better than to have made such 'a strange mistake. However, so it was, and it had a great effect on John. His very first thought was,

"What a bad boy I must be never to pray, when even squirrels do!"

Away he went to his sheep, but while he tended them the thought still haunted him, "How bad I must be never to pray, when even squirrels do!"

Feeding his sheep in haste, he hurried home, changed his clothes, and went at once to some place where the Gospel was preached. On his way he had to pass a knot of his companions idling, as usual, at a corner of the street, and when they saw that he was dressed in his Sunday clothes, they guessed where he was going, and began at once to taunt him, and to shout in chorus after him.

But none of these things moved John. God was at work in his soul, and He who can use the most simple and unlikely means to effect His gracious purposes, had so aroused the conscience of the poor ignorant shepherd boy, that no amount of ridicule could force him from his purpose.

That night the Word of God proved "sharper than any two-edged sword" to him, and he went home under the deep conviction that he was a sinner, a poor lost sinner, whom neither praying nor working could save.

On the following Lord's-day he went again, and every Sunday continued to at-:end, until his eyes were opened to see that `Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners," and that "he that believeth on Him hath everlasting life." Thus, washed from his sins in the precious blood of Christ, which "cleanseth from all sin," he was made happy in the Lord, and from that time led an entirely different life.

Anxious now for the salvation of others, he became a Sunday-school teacher, and, as shepherding interfered with his much-loved work on the Lord's-day, he changed his occupation. His work
was harder, but he was happy in it for the Lord's sake, and greatly beloved by his little class of Sunday-school children.

He ever had cause to remember with thankfulness the SQUIRREL'S SERMON IN THE TREE.

Messages of God’s Love 2/7/1926

A Little Child

(Luke 18:15-17)

"A little child" may rest

In God, whose name is Love;

Who, in His Son, His love expressed;

The sent One from above.

"A little child" may pray

To God, in Jesus' name;

He loves to hear us "Father" say,

And owns His children's claim.

"A little child" may sing

Of Jesus' worth and ways;

And worship to the Father bring,

With those who hymn His praise.

"A little child" may learn

To do God's holy will;

And if for this his bosom yearn,

His wish will God fulfill.

"A little child," whose heart

To Jesus has been given,

Shall rise, when all the saints depart,

And dwell with Christ in heaven.

Messages of God’s Love 2/7/1926

The Light Within

WHAT sadness our picture this week suggests,—a home of misery and discomfort. The lighted candle, and untouched meal, tells its own sorrowful tale, no one to brighten the home. Poor little Alice had been sent out, by her mother to gather some sticks for the fire. After getting together a bundle, she sat down weeping beside a stile at the road side, regardless of the gathering gloom. How long she intended to sit there no one knows.

But soon a rustling noise was heard in the woods she had just passed through, and a girl about her own age, clambered over the stile with a heavy burden of sticks.

"Why, Alice," she cried, "how can you sit there in the cold? You'll be frozen to death."

"And who would care?" said Alice.

"I would," replied her friend, laughingly, "and you would'nt much like it yourself either, so come, cheer up, and let us see who will be home first."

The road stretched along the valley, and both the girls were making towards two cottages, which stood apart from the village, and a good way up the hill, but the difference was great between the two girls, who were thus following the same path to homes that seemed so much alike.

Both were very poor, and neither had what could be called a happy home, but the one loved the Lord Jesus, and the other knew Him not; or in other words,— the one was happy, and the other was miserable.

Alice had never felt the contrast between herself and Ellen so strongly as this night, and she was inwardly wishing she knew what Ellen's secret was, when someone who had been walking much more rapidly than herself drew near, and she was joined by a kind looking elderly gentleman.

He asked her why she was crying, and when she told him because she was cold and weary, and feared lest her mother would scold her when she reached home, and send her to bed without any supper, he looked very sorry for her, but said he did not think crying would do any good.

"I am afraid, my girl," he added, "that you don't know how to be happy. Do you see those two cottages high up on the hill side?"

"Yes, sir," said Alice, "we live in one, and Ellen Watson lives in the other."

"Well," he said, "as I came along the valley this evening, your cottages were quite bright in the beams of the setting sun, but as it went down, they grew darker and darker, till I could scarcely find them on the hill side, but now, don't you see how bright one of them is again? Can you tell me the reason of this?"

"There is a light within, sir," said Alice.

"Ah! yes, and when the true light shines into our hearts, there is peace, joy, and happiness. The only light for these dark sinful hearts of ours, is the Lord Jesus Christ."

Alice had much to contend with on reaching home, but she pondered what she had learned this night, and the glorious gospel of Christ shone into her heart, making her a new creature in Him.

Even her mother wondered at the change. Ellen rejoiced, and not a few saw that another little pilgrim had left the broad road for the narrow way, and was seeking a better country, that is an heavenly.

"FOR GOD, WHO COMMANDED THE LIGHT TO SHINE OUT OF DARKNESS, HATH SHINED IN OUR HEARTS,TO GIVE THE LIGHT OF THE KNOWLEDGE OF THE GLORY OF GOD IN THE FACE OF JESUS CHRIST." 2 Cor. 4:6.

Messages of God’s Love 2/14/1926

Bible Lessons

Judges 20

The effect of the sending of the pieces of the dead woman's body to all the borders of Israel was to arouse the nation to deal with the wickedness going on among them. They were gathered together "as one man" from Dan in the far north to Beersheba on the southern border, not omitting the land of Gilead east of the Jordan. With one purpose they were united now to put away the guilty in Gibeah, yet before proceeding to the place to execute judgment, the tribes of Israel sent men through all the tribe of Benjamin to bring the matter before them in its true character, and having aroused them, to ask for the delivery of those wicked men for punishment.

But the children of Benjamin would not listen to the messengers, and gathered themselves together to Gibeah to fight against their brethren. How often since then has not the same thing occurred— natural relationship, friendship, nationality, sympathy and other natural ties have been made use of by Satan among God's people to uphold the guilty and to disregard what is due to God, dividing His saints and setting them against each other.

The men of Israel, other than Benjamin, had however failed to ask counsel of God; they were acting in the right direction, but they had a lesson unlearned. They only ask, Who shall go up first? The result of a lack of self-humbling, of owning the sin of Gibeah as but the expression of a low state morally throughout the whole nation, is seen in a defeat where victory should have been decisive. This leads to weeping before the Lord, and asking a deeper question than at first. It is now, Shall I go up to battle? They were to go, but the root of the matter must be judge, so a second defeat, nearly as serious as the first had to take place. More thorough searching of heart succeeds this second defeat (verse 26), and the discipline is received as a chastening from God upon the nation. They are now in a position to be blessed, and the Lord smote Benjamin (verse 35). Fearful destruction followed and not only practically all of the fighting men of Benjamin but of the rest of the men of the tribe were put to death, and their cities desolated.

How humbling all this was! Brother against brother, fighting where unity should have been seen! Yet there was a cause,—sin was condoned, unjudged, among the people of God, and those whose consciences were awakened were guided of God in putting it away.

A far more fearful dealing of God with this world and its people is pending, reader. Are you prepared to meet it? The judgment of this world was pronounced when Jesus died on the cross. He is your only hope. Have you received Him?

Messages of God’s Love 2/14/1926

He'd See Me Too Much

THIS evening a little girl said to me, "Do tell me a story please, just a little one before I go to bed." So I did, and shall. I tell it to you?

He was such a fine, jolly boy of six or seven years old, with large dark eyes that used to look up at me as I spoke to the little fellows in my Sunday class. I remember Edward, Harry, Charlie, Frankie and others, but Alfred I shall never forget.

We had been speaking about Hagar one afternoon, how she had fled from her mistress into the wilderness, and when she was frightened and alone, the angel of the Lord spoke to her, and told her that God had heard her cry. She was so struck with wonder that God, whom perhaps she had forgotten, had seen her, and known all about her, that she made use of a word in her language which means, "Thou God seest me."

Poor Hagar! only a runaway Egyptian woman! Little she thought of the thousands of children all over the world who would be taught that text. It was the very first one I learned. Then came "God is light," then "God is love." Did your mother teach them to you, I wonder? It is such a grand thing to know that though God can see us, though He is light, and nothing is hidden from Him, yet He loves us.

As the boys were young and could read a tiny bit, I generally wrote out on a large card anything I wanted them to remember, and we used to repeat it quietly together. On this afternoon we said the text, "Thou God seest me" several times, then I asked, +"Who sees us?" "God."

"What does God do?" "Sees us."

"Whom does He see?" "Us."

"Now Edward, you say it."

"Thou God seest me," said Edward.

"Now Harry," "Now Frankie," and round till it came to Alfred's turn. But Alfred twisted on his seat, and grew very red and said nothing. I was disappointed. "Come Alfred, you can say that tiny text, surely. 'Thou God'—."

But still Alfred, was silent and only fidgeted more.

"O! Alfred, try. 'Thou God'—Come."

"Thou God seest us," said the little fellow at last. I was more disappointed. Here was a restless, inattentive little boy! He could not even say a short text. of four words correctly. We repeated it again, and once more Alfred replied, "Thou God seest—everybody." "Thou God seest all the world."

I wondered, for he was a bright little fellow as a rule, so I said, "What does ME spell, Alfred?'

" 'Me,' teacher."

"Well, why didn't you say, 'Thou God seest me'?"

For a moment he waited, with his big eyes bigger than ever, then he whispered; "Why, teacher, if God looked right at me, He'd see too much."

That was the reason the text was not said!

God had allowed the message to sink down, down, until it reached the conscience of that boy, and he felt that God's eye, if looking at him, would see things he knew were sinful things.

He thought that if the eye of the Lord was on everybody, it might not see all he did perhaps, and that God would not notice that naughty action or this sinful. deed. But to feel that God was looking right down at him, made him uneasy. Yet it is true as the little hymn says,

"He looks at thee, all day and all night long."

Now little boy, little girl, what about you? I hope you can say without fear, "Thou God seest ME," knowing that though you are sinful and naughty, Jesus' precious blood has been shed to cleanse you from all sin, and make you fit for God's sight. Have you thanked Him?

Messages of God’s Love 2/14/1926

Wanted, A Christian

SOME time ago there appeared in a city newspaper an advertisement for a clerk, with the unusual condition that he must he "a decided Christian." A number applied for the place, but when asked for "a reason for the hope that was in them" concerning Christ, scarcely any could give a Scriptural answer.

These facts were brought to the notice of a Christian who related them to his children, and asked them how they would have replied. He asked them to write their answers. Harold, a boy of twelve years old, gave the following answer:

"I am a Christian because I love Jesus, and want to be a missionary, and work in His service, to do all I can for Jesus. I love Him because He first loved me, and has done so much for me."—Harold.

Harold was a school boy, like many who will read it. Suppose the question were asked of you,

"Are you a Christian?" what answer would you give? And if still further you were asked,

"How do you know that you are a Christian?" what answer would you give? Consider the question very quietly, alone with God and your own heart. God reads the secrets of all hearts. How are you treating the Lord Jesus? Can you say you know Him? I well remember the thrill of joy I had when first I gave a clear decided answer. It was just a year after I first knew the. Lord Jesus. I was having a music lesson with a dearly loved teacher, when she laid her hand on mine and said,

"My child, I hope you love the Lord Jesus Christ?" I answered,

"Yes, I do."

"I mean, you know Him as your own personal Saviour?" she continued; and again I replied,

"Yes," And then she went on to tell me what Christ was to her—dearer than all the world besides.

"Unto you therefore which believe He is precious." 1 Peter 2:7.

Messages of God’s Love 2/14/1926

Snowballing

IN our picture the boys and girls seem to be enjoying themselves by snowballing each other. They are prepared for the cold and snow with their warm caps and coats. How much children enjoy the snow.

There is but one thing in this world that is whiter than snow, and that is a Firmer washed in the precious blood of Jesus.

We trust that all of our dear readers have heard the gospel message,—that Jesus died for sinners, and shed His precious blood on Calvary's cross to wash away the sins of all who will come to Him accepting Him as their own Saviour.

"WASH ME AND I SHALL BE WHITER THAN SNOW." Psa, 51:7.

May each one of our little friends be able to say, "The blood of Jesus Christ God's Son, has washed me, and I am whiter than snow."

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

Child, hast thou trusted in Jesus?

Dost thou not believe and say,

"He loved me, He died to save me,

He has borne my sins away;

For my sins were laid on Jesus;

In my stead, for my guilt, He died"?

Then, child, fall down and adore Him,

Thou art whiter than all beside;

A lamb that's washed white forever

In the Lamb's most precious blood.

And so, in the snow-white raiment

That Christ for His child has won,

Thou shalt pass the golden gateway,

And tell that His work is done.

Messages of God’s Love 2/21/1926

Bible Lessons

Judges 21

The day of judgment was over, and how fearful the destruction had been! All of Gibeah's population was dead, and all of the tribe of Benjamin, except 600 men, while 40,000 of the men of the faithful tribes had given their lives in the war. And if we ask, What caused this terrible carnage! the answer is plain: sin had been tolerated in the camp of Israel, and when it was exposed, and the exclusion of those who were guilty, was required, there was an entire refusal. God had smitten Benjamin (chapter 20, verse 35), but all Israel must feel the chastening as from Him, since they were one in His sight.

Once they fully took the place of self-judgment (chapter 20, verse 26), victory was in their hands, and now that the day of battle is over, the same character is seen (chapter 2: verses 2-4). There is weeping, because it is Benjamin, a brother, who has sinned, but there is a proper regard for what is due to God (verse 4), and neither, we may say, would do without the other.

Wives were provided for the 600 men of Benjamin who were left of the tribe; 400 from the judged city of Jabesh-Gilead (verse 12), and 200 from the place where God was to be met, Shiloh. So Benjamin began anew.

In these last two chapters of Judges we are taken back to the early days after the death of Joshua, for Phinehas was yet high priest (chapter 20, verse 28), the grandson of Aaron. The book of Ruth which follows, belongs also to the days of the judges of Israel.

In the book we are now closing, the record has been almost without exception, of the failure of man. The exposure of the natural heart in one way or another as ever ready to turn away from God, ready to take up with anything which will serve as an object on which to fasten the affections, the desires of nature,—this has been repeatedly shown us in the Judges. We have found, nevertheless, God acting in such a scene.

He is still acting, the scene of today being essentially the same as that of the earlier day. Man still needs a Saviour, yet gives Him little thought; indeed he prefers to be left alone, and Satan would have man left alone till eternity has him in its grasp, too late to receive salvation. 0, reader, hast thou fled from the wrath to come, for refuge in the bosom of the Saviour?

Messages of God’s Love 2/21/1926

Ready To Go

THOUGHTS of eternity were pressing heavily upon Mary's soul; for she saw her neighbors, day after day, taken from their homes to the dark, cold grave, and she knew her turn must come, and it might be soon, for the young as well as the old, and the rich as well as the poor, were taken and she longed to be ready. Her soul thirsted for salvation, and she felt she could do anything, or endure any privation, so that she might obtain it, and be prepared for that day.

Thus things went on, till, one evening, she was passing through a park, and, if possible, more sad and sorrowful than ever, feeling as if she was alone in the world. But, on lifting up her eyes, she saw, a little way off, a company of people standing, and, wondering what they were doing; she went to see, and found a man was preaching the gospel.

She listened, and found he was telling the people about Jesus, the spotless Lamb of God! how He came into the world, and died, and rose again, "and put away sin by the sacrifice of Himself."

"And by Him all that believe are justified from all things," without any goodness of their own in any way whatever. (Acts 13:38, 39). O! she said to herself, this will just suit me. I want to be justified before God, and I find this is to be obtained by simply believing in His clear Son: and there is no goodness of my own required for my soul's salvation.

O, how glad I am to know this, it is what I have been desiring for so long, and I do believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. And why should I not be happy, notwithstanding all that I am, because it was for sinners like me He came to die (1 Tim. 1:15). And with that her heart became filled with that peace which passed) all understanding. She received the Lord Jesus Christ, and passed from death unto life, and went on her way rejoicing.

There was no excitement about it, but from that moment everything was changed with her. She was a new creature in Christ Jesus, and could now serve God with joy and gladness for her burden was gone, her sins were forgiven, her soul was saved, and she was happy.

Messages of God’s Love 2/21/1926

Why a Hindu Boy Wanted a Vacation

A BRIGHT boy of fourteen years, who lived in India's swamps, came to us in Midnapore (in the highlands of Tibet) to our Bible school. He was very desirous to learn, and was quick of understanding, and above all, had a fervent desire to be saved. He gave me much joy through his thoughtful questions, and earnest, hearty prayers. He had not been with us very long, when he joyfully informed us that he could now call the Lord Jesus his Saviour. How happy he was now! A calm but deep joy beamed from his face.

One day, shortly after his conversion, he came to me and asked if he could have a vacation. I was astonished, and grieved at the request, for I feared it was the same with him, as was so often the case with other boys, a whim, or a touch of homesickness; therefore I said to him:

"This is not the time to think of a furlough. The half-term of the school has just begun: but when vacation comes you may go home with the other boys."

He then left me without saying a word. and I thought he was satisfied with my decision, and had gone to his comrades. But when I, shortly after, stepped upon the veranda in front of my room, he stood there deep in thought, and apparently much cast down. Then he saw me, he approached me. and begged most earnestly;

"Do let me go home right now."

Then I began to anticipate why he longed to go home, yet I wanted to hear him give the reason of it himself, so I asked;

"Why do you wish to go home now Tell me, and I will consider it."

Big-tears rolled down his cheeks, and for a while he was unable to speak a word, when at last he said, with a voice that went home to my heart,

"I have been so happy ever since I found the Saviour; now I want to tell my friends about Him. My father and my mother have not yet heard of Him. Please, do let me go borne right now,'

How could I refuse such a request.

"Yes, you may go," I said touchingly, "and we will pray for you and your friends."

It took him fully two days to reach his home village. He remained there a few days.

When be returned to us, his face was beaming even more than before. He had been able to tell all of his relatives about the Saviour. After some time we learned of the fruit of his sowing. All the relatives of our dear little friend had found the Saviour: first of all his mother, then the father, after that, two brothers and three sisters; and all remained true disciples of the Lord.

Many of you, dear young readers, have possibly become little lambs of the Good Shepherd. Do you also long to tell this glorious message to others, and lead them to Him?

The sooner you begin to confess the Lord, the easier it will be for you, and the happier you will become. The Lord calls to you as He did to that man in the gospel,

"Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord bath done for thee." Mark 5:19.

Messages of God’s Love 2/21/1926

Dear Bertie

FOLLOW me now to where a dear child lies upon a sick bed. His young life has been almost from its commencement one of suffering, oftentimes very acute. He is sitting up, but has no power to walk, and the little of the world he can see, is from his bed-room window. His little cousins and friends must come to him, for he cannot go to them. But his face is bright.

"What do you want, Bertie?" his father asked. "O, papa, will you please take these books with you, and give them to someone this afternoon, and will you give this one to some child?"

"All right, Bertie," says the father, who is rather in a hurry to start for the hospital. As he proceeds on his way, however, he takes occasion to open the books, and discovers that his dear little Bertie has placed in each one a piece of paper upon which he has carefully written,

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

"Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."

Dear Bertie loves the Lord Jesus Christ, and desires that others may also receive the truth as it is in Jesus, and this is his way of scattering the precious truth, which has made his own little heart glad in the midst of all his sufferings.

Youthful reader, I trust you are like clear Bertie, happy in the Saviour.

Messages of God’s Love 2/21/1926

The Captive Maid

Only a little captive maid

From Israel's land exiled,

She often to Jehovah prayed

Though but a little child,

A hopeless leper was her lord,

Nor knew God's sovereign grace;

She softly spoke for him the word,

"Go seek the prophet's face."

Her master listened to this voice

And to Elisha sped;

Now cleansed, how did his heart rejoice!

He lived, who once was dead.

O say not then, "I'm but a child,"

But seek the Saviour's face,

He'll make you clean and undefiled,

A monument of grace.

And then to others you may go,

To tell them of His love;

Through you the gospel streams may flow,

Which have their source above.

Messages of God’s Love 2/21/1926

A Windy Day

HERE is a picture of some boys who are on their way to school. The older boys take their books home at night to study the lessons they are going to have the next day. Even the very youngest boy wants to work at home too; so he has his slate tied around his neck.

It is a very windy day. The boys are holding fast to their hats and the little brother has both hands on his cap. Some boys would stay at home on a stormy day like this; but these boys want to go to school and learn all they can. 'Do you think they look troubled or cross because the wind is blowing so hard? No, they seem glad that they are well enough to go to school through a storm like this.

Can we go through the trials and troubles that come to us in this life and have glad hearts like the boys in the picture? If we are the Lord's we will meet with trials all along the path; for this is not our home. The world had no place for the Lord Jesus, and-it does not want those who love and follow Dim. Why should we be troubled or unhappy about the trials we meet.

"GOD IS OUR REFUGE AND STRENGTH, A VERY PRESENT HELP IN TROUBLE." Psa. 46:1.

All that we need to do is to put our trust in Him, knowing that He ever watches over us, and is preparing a home where He will have us forever with Himself.

Messages of God’s Love 2/28/1926

Bible Lessons

Ruth 1

In the book of Judges we have seen the failure of Israel; in Ruth, during the same general period of time, we find God blessing a poor benighted Gentile of low origin. There was a famine in the land of Israel; there would not have been such a calamity had the people obeyed God; had they taken heed to the warnings of Moses written for them in the book of Deuteronomy. But to get away from this chastening, a certain man of Bethlehem-Judah went to sojourn to stay for a limited time—in the country of Moab, he, his wife and their two sons. They put the Jordan and the Dead Sea between themselves and the land God had put them into.

Elimelech never meant to settle down away from Bethlehem ("place of food"), but it is not easy to retrace wrong steps. God's people were to be a separated people, apart from the guilty world around them, yet Elimelech took his family into that world, and sadder still, he left them there. With such an example we do not wonder that the two sons married women of that land, settling down to make their homes

there. And now there were left only the three widows, the Israelite mother and her two Moabite daughters-in-law. The family had sadly reaped of their sowing for Scripture says (Galatians.:7), "De not deceived: God is not mocked, for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall lie also reap."

The news had now reached Naomi that God had visited His people in giving them food, and she longed to return. She had found only bitterness in the way of her choice. Vet the daughters-in-law were a hindrance, for how could she, an Israelite. bring with her, people of a nation concerning which God had declared,

"An Ammonite or 'Moabite shall not enter into the congregation of the Lord even to their tenth generation shall they not enter into the congregation of the Lord for ever ... . Thou shalt not seek their peace nor their prosperity all thy days forever." Deuteronomy 2:3.

To such. Naomi's sons had been married, and their widows were now disposed to go with her to Bethlehem. She felt therefore that they must be persuaded to stay in their own land; to. bring them with her to Bethlehem was unthinkable.

The years spent away from association with God's children, among the idolaters of Moab, had left their mark on Naomi, we judge from what she said to Orpah and Ruth; little thought seems there of the love and condescending kindness of God toward both herself and these idolaters. None will He turn away who seek Him while it is day.

Orpah at length consented to leave the elder widow, but Ruth was determined to 0-o with Naomi. In the touching words of verses 16, and 17, we see one whose heart has been attracted to the desolate widow of Israel, and who proposes to link herself with that one as she returns to the place of God's appointment.

This is clearly a foreshadowing of the millennial day, when God will, in bringing His long set-aside people Israel back to Himself and to the land He once gave them, bless Gentiles through and with the returning remnant.

They came together to Bethlehem. and then was the city stirred to ask, "Is this Naomi Surprising, too, will be the return of Israel after the long centuries spent away from God, When that bright day for this earth dawns. It will be the beginning- of a great harvest of souls then, and the restoration of the remnant of Israel will he accomplished with much searching their hearts.

Messages of God’s Love 2/28/1926

Teddy's Conversion

LET us draw our chairs together, and I will tell you about Teddy's conversion.

You must know, like many other boys he was willful and

wayward. But he had Christian parents who brought him up in the fear of Gcd. At this time he had left school and gone out into the world, and you know, dear boys and girls, that the world is very attractive. Things look very nice to the eve, but God's Word says it "lieth in the wicked one," and therefore it is a sinful world.

Our young friend became very unhappy, and his sins pressed very heavily upon him. He thought of judgment; of having to do with God, this was the cause of all this uneasiness. But God had His eye upon him. For six long weary months he went about trying to find satisfaction in the world and in himself, but it was not to be found in this way.

No, dear boys and girls, satisfaction and joy, salvation and rest, are to be found alone in One whose name is Jesus. Our young friend had to prove, trying to do better in the future was all in vain; the sins of youth, big sins and small ones, would come up before him like a giant mountain.

"God requireth that which is past." Eccles. 3:15.

Just about this time a book was placed upon the table by his father, and being struck by the title of the book. which was "Though your sins be as scarlet," he took it up and read it.

The story teas about a young man who was going one Sunday evening to enjoy himself at the house of some friends who were, like himself, bent upon the pleasures of the world. But as this young man was hurrying along. this tract was put into his hand by a passer-by bearing- the above title which was the means of his salvation, and God used it for our young friend's salvation also.

Now Teddy was very fond of reading books that commenced with a story, and if it chanced to touch upon the subject of salvation he would put it down and read no mi-ire: but somehow the story was continued to the end, but interwoven between the lines were those words which occurred several times over.

"Though your sins be as scarlet."

Night after night he went to bed but could get no sleep. Over and over again the words kept ringing in his ears,

"Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow."

But at last the night of decision came. The clock had struck eleven, Satan whispered "Time enough vet, wait till you get a little older." But God said, "Now". He came downstairs and was met by his parents, who had been upon their knees praying to God.

Our young friend burst into tears, saving,

"I'm a great sinner.'' To which his father made reply,

"He is a great Saviour:"

He was told that Jesus had borne all his sins, and satisfied God on account of them. It is now eight years since our young friend found Jesus as his Saviour, and since then he has been going on his way rejoicing.

But we had better get our Bibles and open them at Isaiah 1:18 and read the whole of the verse.

"Come now. and let us reason together, saith the Lord though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool."

May those who read these lines follow our young friend's example and "Come now."

Come now to Jesus,

Come and thy sins all confess;

Come now to Jesus,

He is still waiting to bless.

Messages of God’s Love 2/28/1926

Brave Oscar

TWO little children ran after their father one morning as he went to work, and, on their way home, began to pick daisies on the side of the lake.

In their eagerness to secure a large flower to take home to their mother, they put themselves into danger. Parts of the lake were deep, and the banks slippery. Harry, the younger of the two children, a pretty little fellow of three, slipped, and rolled down the bank, into the deep water. Johnnie, his brother. gave a loud scream, as he saw Harry disappear from view, and rushed along the road, crying out, "Mother, mother." The distance to their home, was too great for her to hear that cry, and I fear poor Harry must have been drowned, but for a brave dog, who lay sunning himself, near the place where Harry fell in. The child's cry awoke Oscar, and with one spring he was in the water, and seizing Harry's clothing in his teeth, kept the child afloat till a boatman came, and picked him up. A crowd had gathered by the lake side, and in a few minutes, Harry was safe in his mother's arms.

Do you think he forgot brave Oscar? No. He is now a tall boy, and you may see him walking by the lake with Oscar by his side.

I know of One who died to save you from eternal death. His name is Jesus.

Have you ever thanked Him? Do you trust Him, and walk by His side?

"He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk, even as He walked." 1 John 2:6.

Messages of God’s Love 2/28/1926

Unchanging Love

In the land of strangers,

Whither thou art gone,

Hear a far voice calling—

My son! my son!

From the land of hunger,

Fainting, famished, lone,

Come to love and gladness,

My son! my son!

See the door still open,

Thou art still my own;

Eyes of love are on thee,

My son! my son!

Far off thou past wandered:

Wilt thou further roam?

Come; and all is pardoned,

My son! my son!

See the well-spread table,

Unforgotten one!

Here is rest and plenty,

My son! my son!

Thou are friendless, homeless.

Hopeless and undone;

Mine is love unchanging,

My son! my son!

Messages of God’s Love 2/28/1926

Bible Questions for March

Answers to Bible Questions for January

In whom the god of," etc. 2 Cor. 4:4.

''Be ye not unequally." etc. 6:14.

"This is the third time,'' etc. " 13:1.

"Wherefore come out," etc. 6:17

"For our light at diction," etc. 4:17.

''Finally, brethren, farewell," etc. " 13:11.

"Every man according," etc. 9:7

Bible Questions for March

The answers are to be found in 1 and 2 Thess., 1 and 2 Timothy, and Titus

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Taking vengeance."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Given by inspiration."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Wait for His Son."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Worldly lusts."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Rich in good works."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Modest apparel."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "So shall we ever be."

Messages of God’s Love 3/7/1926

Bible Lessons

Ruth 2

In the preceding chapter we found a sad story of turning away from God and its serious consequences; the two desolate women, one a stranger to God and His grace; and the other not vet recognizing that she had but reaped the fruit of a course of self-seeking, were now in Bethlehem, the place of food, as its name literally means.

Never is God sought in vain, and He is ever ready to bless far beyond their thoughts and expectations those who put their trust in Him. Accordingly we now learn in chapter 2 of a kinsman, a mighty man of wealth, Boaz, who met the poor stranger, Ruth, and showed her kindness.

It was the beginning of barley harvest, as we learned in the first chapter (verse 22), and the real sense of need to the two women sent the younger out after the reapers. to pick up the stray ears dropped by them.

It was of God that Ruth went into the part of the field that belonged to Boaz, for it was all unknown to herself that she was taking of the bounty of the mighty kinsman of her mother-in-law, when she asked permission of the servant over the reapers to glean the overlooked barley. And Boaz, presently among his servants in the field, noticed the stranger. He already knew all about her, and bade her not go to glean in another field; she should stay close by his maidens, watching for the stray ears of barley they were missing; and if thirsty, there was water already drawn.

All this puts us in mind of the bountiful provision of our Saviour God. He has it in His heart to meet in love every poor sinner who, trembling and fearful it may well be, comes to trust under His wings ( verse 12), and out of His great store He gives the Living Food, Christ, and the. living water, the Word of God. How comfortingly Boaz spoke to the empty handed, sad hearted .stranger, who without rightful claim on him, is there before Him!

This again is like God's way with the sinner who comes to Him. He gives peace (John 20:19); He gives eternal life ( John 3:16) to all who turn to Him, and their sins and iniquities will He remember no more (Heb. 10:17). His beloved Son Whom He gave to die in their stead, the Just for the unjust, to bring us to God, has undertaken not only to satisfy God's righteous demands for them, but to bring them into the closest and unchanging relationship with Him in heavenly glory. So in this story of Ruth we find the mighty Boaz telling his servants to drop some of the handfuls. of barley they were gathering, on purpose, that she might gather more.

Ruth returned to Naomi, who was cheered by the thought of God's interest in herself as well as in the stranger (verse 20), and told her to continue with the maidens of Boaz. Thus the close of the barley and wheat harvest is reached.

Messages of God’s Love 3/7/1926

There Is No Saviour For Me

A CHRISTIAN lady was traveling to R—, but just as the train was starting, a woman with a very sorrowful countenance came into the train. The sorrow of the woman was so marked that Miss E. was constrained to ask her if she were in trouble. Some time elapsed before the woman answered, and then she replied rather sharply, "Yes! I am."

"Is it family trouble?" inquired the Christian tenderly.

Very reluctantly the reply came, "No," and the eyes of the woman filled with tears.

Both remained silent for some time, and then Miss E. asked: "Is it soul trouble?"

"Yes," replied the woman eagerly; and then she told the story of her trouble—how that for six years she had been seeking salvation, going to hear different preachers—mentioning the names of some —and endeavoring in every way she could to find salvation, but all to no purpose.

"You have been looking to man and not to Jesus," said Miss E.

"O! no," replied the woman; "there is no Saviour for me."

"Do you mean to say that Jesus died for everybody in the world but you?" "It seems like it," was the reply.

Sitting by the side of the woman, Miss E. read slowly,

"God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life," — laying great stress on the word "whosoever." She read it a second time, again pausing at the word "whosoever," and then said:

"Are you included in the 'whosoever'? or does it mean everybody but you?"

The woman did not speak for a moment, but presently, looking Miss E. full in the face, said, with tears: "I see it now. How clear you have made it! Why did I not see it before?"

Reading the verse once more, they thanked the Lord together.

They remained alone till the woman reached her destination, and she, who had longed and searched for salvation for six years, stepped out of the train rejoicing in Christ as her Saviour.

Miss E. has since received letters from the woman, which tell of her thankfulness and joy in the Lord.

Dear reader, learn from the foregoing that "whosoever" takes in you.

Messages of God’s Love 3/7/1926

Dear Ada

THE Christian parents of a little girl one evening spoke to her for a long time about the Lord Jesus. They told her of His love in dying for sinners, and His speedy return to take all who believe on Him to be with Him for ever. They said, too, that then the door of mercy would be shut; and earnestly entreated their little daughter to come to the Lord Jesus ere it was too late, that she might be ready to meet Him at whatever hour He might come.

After having gone to bed and slept some time, she awoke, and wondered at the silence of the house. She listened, hoping to hear some familiar voice, but no sound fell upon her ear save the solemn ticking of a great clock on the stairs. She thought of the conversation of the evening before. and of her parents' entreaties and warnings.

"Could it be that the Lord had come? Had her father and mother gone to be with Him, and left her behind?"

The thought filled her with fear, and, running to the door of her mother's room, she called gently:

"Mother, clear!"

There was no answer. Only the clock kept on counting out the seconds as they sped. Again she called, now more loudly:

"Mother, dear!"

Again no answer. She felt almost sure now that she was left behind for judgment, and that her last chance of salvation had passed away.

Overcome with terror, she shook the handle of the door.

"Who is there?" asked a voice from within. .

"O, it is I," was the answer, "and I am so glad you are there."

She entered the room, and told her mother of her terrible fears. She needed no entreaty now to bring her to the feet of Jesus, so thankful was she that she had one more chance of being made fit for His presence.

The Lord has not come vet, but He is soon coming. The last gospel message will be given; the last invitation to poor sinners will go forth. How terrible for those who refuse it!

Dear children, you have one more chance. Accept God's message of love to you now, so that you may join those who can say, "Even so, come, Lord Jesus," in answer to His farewell promise, "Surely, I come quickly."

Messages of God’s Love 3/7/1926

The Young Cobbler

WITH deep interest the little boy watches his father mend the shoes, and imitates him as closely as possible. By being beside his father, he can ask

questions, and his father can watch him and tell him just how to do his work, and if he makes a mistake, correct him.

How good it is for the boy to have one to instruct him, and good for him if he willingly takes the instruction.

So it is, dear children, as to the things of God. God has given us full instruction in His Word as to all we should do, and for the start He tells us to.

"Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ."

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

God has given His Son for tis poor sinners, and if we reject Him, there is no salvation for us, but the wrath of God will abide on us. But I doubt not that many who read this paper do believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and for such I would say, take a lesson from the young cobbler, and inquire as to what your path should be, that you may get the wisdom of God, which is to be found alone in His Word, to guide and direct you in every circumstance in life.

"TEACH ME THE WAY, O LORD AND LEAD ME IN A PLAIN PATH." Psa. 27:11.

Messages of God’s Love 3/7/1926

Resting

Lord Jesus, Thou are precious.

We place our hands in Thine,

And in Thy love and faithfulness

Our restful hearts recline.

We know not what's before us,

But all is known to Thee;

It is enough with Thee we walk

Until Thy face we see.

Messages of God’s Love 3/7/1926

Sparrows

A FEW years ago a boy, having made a bean-shooter, went out into a field to try it. After looking around for something to shoot, he spied a sparrow

perched high up in a tree, chirping sweetly, and quite unconscious of approaching danger. The boy crept softly under the tree until Ile stood directly under the sparrow. Then he pulled the rubber. Instead

of having a bean, which would probably have done no harm, he had loaded the shooter with a stone, and struck the poor bird squarely in the breast. It came tumbling down, and lay quite dead at the boy's feet.

The boy, who had been taught by Godly parents to fear God and His Word, remembered instantly that verse in Matt. 10:29,

"Are not two sparrows sold for a farthing? and one of them shall not fall on the ground without your Father."

He trembled at the thought of what he had done to one of God's creatures, whom God provides for and protects. With tears in his eyes, the boy picked up the sparrow, still warm, pressed it to his bosom, saving to himself: "If only I could give back the life I took!" God only can give life.

But God has shown His love for you in a far greater measure, in His care for you, than only in your daily life:

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life." John 3:16.

H Jesus has died for you, to put away your sins, then you need have no fear to meet a holy and righteous God, for Scripture says:

"The blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth us from all sin." That is the only way we can be made fit to dwell in His presence.

"FEAR YE NOT THEREFORE, YE ARE OF MORE. VALUE THAN MANY SPARROWS." Matt. 10:31.

Messages of God’s Love 3/14/1926

Bible Lessons

Ruth 3

Ruth, though her needs were met, and much kindness had been shown her, was without a home; she had no rest (verse 1), no home.

Reader, have you an interest, made yours through the Saviour's blood, in the rest, the home, that remains for the people of God? "We which have believed", the Epistle to the Hebrews, in chapter 4 and verse 3, plainly states, "do enter into rest", for "there remaineth a rest to the people of God."

Naomi, then, led of God, proposed to Ruth that she boldly lay claim to the mighty kinsman who, had already treated her with much kindness. This she did. and Boaz answered her. "Fear not, I will do to thee all that thou requires (verse 11), but there was a nearer kinsman; if he would not do the kinsman's part, redeeming the inheritance,—then the great man of wealth would.

We are looking at Ruth as a Gentile stranger seeking shelter by faith beneath the wings of the God of Israel and this nearer kinsman typified the law given through Moses, which was never able to re-establish Israel in their inheritance. nor to raise up in grace the name of the dead.

Many today are seeking to establish themselves by keeping the law, or rather 1,y trying to keep the law, thinking thereby to merit heaven; but the law could never make perfect that which- was imperfect—there was always the conscience of 'sins (Heb. 10:1-14).

It must be all of grace, the work of God, the ground of the believer's peace. There is an eternal relationship of the closest, the most precious character, planned by God for His beloved Son, that those who have received Him by faith as their Saviour and Lord should be with and like Him, His body indeed and His heavenly bride (Ephesians, etc.), but this is all of God's doing, not at all of man's..

Reader, if you are clinging to any fancied goodness of your own for salvation, I beg you to abandon it once and for all.

All have sinned and come short of the glory of God." Romans 3:23.

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

"Through this Man (Jesus) is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins." Acts 18:3S.

Messages of God’s Love 3/14/1926

The Little Boy's Faith

MD. was a little fellow of about four or five years of age, who, attended the infant class of a Sunday-school, where it was his happiness to enjoy the instructions of a teacher eminently qualified for his work, and who really loved his class. a fact children are seldom slow in discovering. Indeed, our little friend would sooner have gone without breakfast or dinner any Sunday than stay away from school.

It was the custom of the teacher to rivet the attention of the children by getting them thoroughly interested in the lesson—frequently asking them such questions concerning it, as should have a tendency to call forth their simple thoughts, and lead them to ask him questions in return.

As might have been expected, this training was greatly blessed to them all, but especially so in the case of M. whose parents were Christians, who wisely sought to foster in the mind of their infant son the growth of every seed of grace SOW/1 by the Sunday-school teacher.

One Sunday afternoon, the subject of the lesson had been "Prayer," and the verse of Scripture each child was expected to read or recite was,

"Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you."

Presently little M. said, "Teacher, does it not mean, pray hard'?"

"Yes, M." replied the teacher. "If anybody, wishing to enter your house, knocks once, and the door is not opened soon, what does he do?"

"Knocks again," cried a dozen voices at once.

"Very well, children; then, if we want anything from God, which He has promised to give, and which we have asked for, but not vet had, what must we do?"

"Ask again, till we have it," replied the children,

"But," said the teacher, "are you quite sure that,. if we do ask, God will hear?"

"Yes, quite sure," earnestly answered M.

"Why are you quite sure?"

"Because," answered the child, reverently, "God never can tell lies."

A week or two rolled away, when, on the. little boy's return from a visit to his grand-mother, instead of finding his mother, as usual, awaiting his arrival, he

found that she was upstairs in bed, and, as he never could remember his mother to have been in bed in the middle of the clay before, he was much surprised.

He soon found his way into her room, and, gazing earnestly into her pale face, exclaimed, "Why-, mamma, what makes you lie in bed now? It isn't night yet."

"Hush, M. dear," said his mother, faintly; "God has made me very ill, and YOU must not make a noise, for it would make my head very bad."

"Then I won't make a noise any more, only let me have one kiss, and then I shall go and ask God to make you quite well, and I am sure He will hear me, for Christ's sake," and his face brightened at the recollection of the lesson on prayer. He tripped away, leaving his mother silently praying in her weakness that God would bless her darling child, and, if his life should be spared, permit him to grow up a good and useful man a prayer that
has been heard, for our little M. is now a middle-aged man, serving God.

So praying, she fell into a quiet slumber, unconscious that the young object of her prayer was at that very moment shut up alone, earnestly begging God, for Christ's sake, to make his dear mother quite well! In M.'s little heart there was not the shadow of a doubt that God would hear and answer his prayer, and he arose from his knees quite satisfied.

Nor was he disappointed, for on the following Sunday, on his return from school. The child was delighted to find his mother, although still pale, in her accustomed seat by the fireside. Clapping his hands, and dancing about the room, the little fellow's joy burst forth with,

"O, mamma, I was quite sure God would let you get well again, because He loves me, and has said, 'Ask, and it shall be given you, and you know God never can tell lies; and I did ask hard, for Christ's sake; and now He has heard, like He said He would. Isn't He a good God?" Mrs. D. pressed her little darling to her heart. and, kissing him, answered,

"Yes, my dear boy. He is a good God indeed. May He ever bless you, and help you always to love and serve Him."

This little sketch is a true family incident, and has been written in the hope that many children, by reading it, may be inclined to imitate the example of little M., and seek the Lord. who has said, "Those that seek Me early shall find Me," and also in the hope that the faith of a child of four years of age may encourage many to confide more and more in the Word of God.

Messages of God’s Love 3/14/1926

Contented, But All Wrong

UPON entering a train I saw a man sitting on the cushioned seat, looking the picture of contentment.

The train moved away from the Station and my happy and contented friend, apparentiv without a care in the world, suddenly discovered that he was in the wrong train.

Take care, my reader; you may be very happy, very comfortable, but yet on the wrong road.

The man's manner soon altered when, after his having told me where he thought he was going, I said, "You are in the wrong train!"

The pleasant smile and the look of contentment disappeared in a moment.

Happily for him there was a way of escape.

I told him that if he got out at the junction he could get a train which would take him to the right place.

Friend, have you discovered you are traveling to hell? If so, I rejoice to tell you there is a way of escape.

"Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved." But, remember, if you refuse that way, there is no other.

"There is none other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved." And, 0, what it cost Jesus to provide this way of escape! He, the holy One, God manifest in the flesh,

had not only to suffer death at the hands of men, but to endure all the just judgment of a thrice holy God against sin.

May God, in His mercy, open your eyes to see, that, in spite of your happiness and contentment, you are going on to the lake of fire; and may you believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and be saved, for His name's sake.

Messages of God’s Love 3/14/1926

There Shall Come a Night of Such Wild Affright

There shall come a night of such wild affright,

As none beside shall know;

When the heavens shall shake, and the wide earth quake

In its last and deepest woe!

What horrors shall roll o'er the godless soul,

Waked from its death-like sleep;

Of all hope bereft, and to judgment left,

For ever to wail and weep!

O children, give ear, while the saints are near!

Soon must the tie be riven,

And men side by side, God's hand shall divide,

As far as hell's depths from heaven.

The children of day are summoned away:

Left are the children of night—

Sealed is their doom, for there's no more room:

Filled are the mansions of light!

What an awful cry will rend the sky,

"Open to us, 0 Lord!"

O dear children, yet, ere the door be shut,

Let that cry in faith be heard.

O children! to Jesus come, now,

O! come while you may, while still 'tis the day

Of grace, salvation, and love.

Messages of God’s Love 3/14/1926

The Lamb of God

SEE all these little lambs about the baby. Do you think they have conic to hurt her? If you know much about lambs you will say very quickly,

"No."

Suppose they were lions or bears or wolves; they would soon destroy the little child. But lambs and sheep are most gentle creatures. They would not harm anyone.

In John 1:36 Jesus is called the "Lamb of God." Because the lamb is such a meek and gentle creature, it was a suitable type of the meek and lowly Jesus, who offered Himself as a lamb to God for your sins and mine.

You often read in the Old Testament about lambs being offered up as sacrifices for sins. These sacrifices were types of the one great Sacrifice that was offered "once for all"—types of Jesus, the Lamb that was a perfect sacrifice, and did not

need to be offered again and again.

In Isaiah 53:7 we are told, "He is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before the shearers is dumb, so He openeth not His mouth." Just as a sheep is so quiet when being led away to be killed, or when the shearers are cutting its wool, so Jesus went into death and endured the most terrible suffering without drawing back—without murmuring. And all this, dear reader, for you, that you might not suffer the deserved punishment of your sins. Do you love Him in return for such great love?

"YE KNOW THAT YE WERE REDEEMED WITH THE PRECIOUS BLOOD OF CHRIST, AS OF A LAMB WITHOUT BLEMISH AND WITHOUT SPOT." 1 Peter 1:18, 19.

Messages of God’s Love 3/21/1926

Bible Lessons

Ruth 4.

EVERYTHING for poor Ruth the Moabitess depended upon Boaz, the mighty, and he had given her his word (chapter 3, verse 13). But the kinsman nearer than he must be given his opportunity first. Just so for the poor, empty and needy sinner, everything depends on the mighty Saviour, and He has given His word,

"Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise case out ... . And this is the will of Him that sent Me, that everyone which seeth the Son, and believeth on Him, may have everlasting life, and I will raise him up at the last day." John 6:37-40.

The nearer kinsman is a picture of the law, and "the law, having a shadow of good things to come, and not the very image of the things, can never with those sacrifices which they offered year by year continually make the comers thereunto perfect." Heb. 10:1.

"For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: that the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit." Rom. 8:3, 4.

Then we notice that this question of Boaz, and the nearer kinsman, must be settled openly, publicly, in the gate of the city. So God has fully shown through many texts, and many examples, in His Word, that "a man is not justified by the works of the law, but by the faith of Jesus Christ." Gal. 2:16.

Ruth the Moabitess must be blessed, and, not alone the property of the dead Israelites, be redeemed. Here again, at the close of the book, in a blessed forecast of a future day we see a restored Israel, and the Gentile, blessed through Israel, who is no longer "bitterness", but again "pleasant". And Ruth's son is, Obed — "serving"—serving God will be the word in a coming day,—and Obed was the grandfather of David the king. From Matthew 1, verse 5, we are shown that Ruth and Boaz were of the royal line in which the Lord Jesus was pleased to come as a man. What exaltation for the lowly stranger! Yet "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" I Corinthians 2:9, 10.

Ruth's happy after-life came to an end, but we doubt not that she had a hope beyond the grave, through the work of a greater Kinsman than her husband.

Have you a hope, my reader, founded upon the one sacrifice of Christ? Are you "redeemed with the precious blood of Christ"? (1 Peter 1:18, 19).

"How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation?" Heb. 2:3.

Messages of God’s Love 3/21/1926

The Postman and His Message

SOME years ago a postman got a letter to deliver, bearing the peculiar address: "To any sinner in H____ ." He tried the postmaster, his fellow-postmen, then took it from door to door on his rounds, causing many peculiar comments. Not one person in all his travels would own that they could be rightly addressed as "sinner," and as the postman himself disliked the title, and the letter contained no address of sender, it was returned to the dead-letter office.

Had you lived in that place, would you have said, "I'll take the letter, as I am a sinner in the sight of a Holy God, for 'all have sinned' (Rom. 3:26), but as I have trusted the Lord Jesus Christ, I am a `sinner saved by grace.' " Do you say that here and now? Remember, all who do not acknowledge their sinnership, will land in God's "dead-letter office." Are you a Sinner, or a Saved Sinner? One or the other you are now, and will be in Eternity. Which?

"Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners." 1 Tim. 1:15.

Messages of God’s Love 3/21/1926

Jim's Last Opportunity

I WONDER whether any of you are refusing the pardon God offers for your sins? Or are you intending to accept this gift of salvation someday, but putting it off a little while longer? If so, I warn you that delay is dangerous, for we know not what may happen before night comes on. Nay, even during the next hour!

Let me tell you about a young man in whom I was interested when living in Australia. This young fellow was employed by the owner of a vineyard, who lived three miles from a township.

I wished to send some letters away, so asked Jim to ride into Wilgarvale during the dinner hour to post them for me. He took the letters and set off, little dreaming what was before him. Not an hour had passed, when I heard the sound of a horse galloping along the country road, and upon looking out of the window saw Jim's horse, riderless, at the gate. I called to the owner of the vineyard, who was reading in another room, and he hastily went out to the gate, mounted the horse, and rode off in the direction of Wilgarvale.

In less than half an hour a cart came slowly along the road, and in it the insensible form of the young man who had so recently ridden off in perfect health and strength! I rushed across the paddock to the men's quarters (the rooms where men-servants sleep are so called in Australia) and prepared his bed. Several men who were with the cart and Jim's master carried him in, and then two of them mounted horses and rode away for doctors one going fifteen miles, the other thirty. He had been found insensible on the road by the men with the cart. That was all I knew. It was night before a doctor reached us, and, after examining the apparently lifeless form, pronounced the injury fracture at the base of the skull. Poor Jim never regained consciousness, and passed away in less than two days. One could only sit by the bedside and pray to God to give consciousness so that one might speak to him about his soul and what lies beyond the grave.

The day following a young lady joined me in my watching. She was visiting the district for the purpose of holding a mission at the chapel Jim had attended at Wilgarvale; and she told me that she had noticed him at the services, and had spoken to him about his sins and need of a Saviour, and had earnestly pleaded with him not to refuse the gift of salvation offered to "whosoever will."

Yes, Jim had heard the message of God's love for the last time when spoken to at the mission, and he passed away—where? O, where?

It is a solemn thing to listen to the wondrous gospel of God's grace, and to go on not heeding it, and careless of the mercy held out to you, young friend, if you are yet in your sins!

We trust, should you not have accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as your Saviour, that this sad story may awaken you to a sense of the awful danger in neglecting to get beneath the shelter of the blood.

"How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation?" Heb. 2:3.

Messages of God’s Love 3/21/1926

Only Trust

ONE day I asked a little girl, "Do you love the Lord Jesus?"

"No," she said, "but I want to very much."

"Why?" I inquired, and her reply was—

"Because I am a sinner. I have tried to be good, but I do want to come to Him, and to love Him."

"Well, dear," I said, "think for a few moments of these two verses: 'God bath laid on Him the iniquity of us all,' and `His own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree.' Now, if God laid your sins on the Lord Jesus, and He bore them, where are they?"

"Well," she said, very slowly, "if God put them on Jesus, and He bore them, I can't bear them too."

"No, dear," I answered, but let us look at it like this. God hated sin. He could not look upon it, and must punish it, but the Lord Jesus loved little Emily, and bore her sins and her punishment, upon the cross."

She looked up so brightly, and said, "Is that what trust or believe means? Then I do trust, and will give Him my heart now, and try to be good."

"But you must leave off trying to be good, and only believe or trust the Lord, and He will give you power to be good after you have truly trusted Him."

She waited a moment before speaking, and then said, "Is that really all? I want Him to take my heart now. I do trust Him."

I think little Emily, then and there, really put her trust in the Lord Jesus, her Saviour; and to you, dear children, who feel your need of the Saviour, I would say, Come to Him, as Emily did, in all your sins, for He will save you. Take your place before God as a sinner, and ask Him to show you the Lord Jesus on the cross bearing your sins.

"He that believeth on the Son bath everlasting life." John 3:36.

The Lord Jesus shed His precious blood for sinners, and all who trust Him, have their sins washed away, and are made whiter than the snow.

Messages of God’s Love 3/21/1926

Come, Thou Weary, Jesus Calls Thee

Come, thou weary, Jesus calls thee,

To His wounded side;

"Come to Me" saith He, and ever

Safe abide.

Seeking Jesus? Jesus seeks thee—

Wants thee as thou art:.

He is knocking, ever knocking,

At thy heart.

If thou let Him, He will save thee,

Make thee all His own;

Guide thee, keep thee, take thee with Him

To His home.

Host thou feel thy life is weary?

Is thy soul distressed?

Take. His offer, wait no longer,

Be at rest.

Wilt thou still refuse His offer?

Wilt thou say Him nay?

Wilt thou let Him, grieved, rejected,

Go away?

Messages of God’s Love 3/21/1926

Nature

HOW beautiful are all of God's works! All speak of His power and wisdom. The beautiful trees in all their variety: the hills and the running stream, with its abundance of fish can only cause our hearts to turn and praise the all-wise Creator—to thus turn to look from nature, up to nature's God.

Isn't it good of the Lord to give us all of the beautiful trees, grass, flowers, streams, etc. to enjoy as long as we are here, and should we not thank Him for them?

"O LORD, HOW MANIFOLD ARE THY WORKS! IN WISDOM HAST THOU MADE THEM ALL: THE EARTH IS FULL OF THY RICHES." Psa. 104:24.

But while it is good to rejoice in the power and wisdom of God, and all the beautiful things in creation He has given us, it is better still, dear children, to be able to rejoice in His love—a love that led Him to give up His well-beloved Son as a sacrifice for poor sinners.

Sin and a holy God cannot dwell together, so Jesus took the place that the sinner deserved—being forsaken of God —and now the poor sinner who will believe in Him, may come right into His presence and will never be forsaken.

Messages of God’s Love 3/28/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 1

We are now entering upon a new phase of Israel's history. They had, under Moses and Joshua, been in a relationship to God, founded upon obedience to the word given through Moses. In the Judges and Ruth we saw Israel under judges whom God raised up, and among them the record of one prophetess, Deborah ( Judges 4:4).

There was increasing departure from God from the closing days of Joshua. The two books of Samuel show the beginning of God's sovereign interference with the state of things by means of prophets. We have also the setting up of a king. This last was an important change; thereafter the relationship of God with the people was not direct, but through the king who was responsible to maintain suited conduct in the people, himself an example to them. The kings failed, and eventually the people and their kings were carried away captive. But there will be a king foreshadowed by David and Solomon,—the King of Glory of Psalm 24, the Lord Jesus Christ, Who will reign in righteousness until He has put all enemies under His feet (1 Cor. 15:25).

The name of Elkanah (verse 1)—"God is possessing"—is significant, in connection with the name of Elimelech—" God is King"—in the preceding book of Ruth. God was owned as King in Elimelech's day, but we are not far into this book before a man is elevated to the throne, and Saul was to prove a poor king. God is possessing, however, and acting, as He has ever delighted to act, in grace (the name Hannah means grace), and as in the case of Sarah (Gen. chapters 15, 18 and 21), and Rachel, Jacob's wife, and others. He presently showed His power where nature was powerless. Hannah was childless, and the other wife, Peninnah, having 'children, provoked her very much.

In the bitterness of Hannah's soul, she prayed and wept in the house of God, and her prayer ascended to Him. If He would give her a son, she would give him up to the service of God, and he should be a Nazarite, as Samson should have remained.

Godly people,—and Eli feared God,_ may be mistaken, and Eli the priest thought that Hannah was drunken, as she was praying. He Who heard her prayer makes no mistakes, and, in due time He answered her petition, for she had His glory before her in making her request. She judged rightly, we may be assured, that Israel were giving up their true king; the priesthood, too was failing, and God must communicate with His people by a new means,—the prophets, of whom Samuel was the first.

Samuel means—heard of God. "The eyes of the Lord", we read in Psalm 34, verse 15, "are upon the righteous, and His ears are open unto their cry", and in Philippians 4:6, 7 the believer is told to let all his wants and his cares be made known by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving to God, and the peace of God, passing all understanding is assured as the garrison of the heart and mind through Christ Jesus.

Messages of God’s Love 3/28/1926

Last Request of a Chinese Girl

IN China many young girls of heathen parents are given away or sold, or even put out to starve. Christians, who have gone to that heathen land to preach the glad tidings of God's love and salvation to the poor, take such girls into their institutions, and instruct them in God's Word and the Saviour's grace.

Many of these girls open their hearts early to the Saviour, believe Him, love Him, and follow Him faithfully.

Not long ago one of these girls died. As she lay on her bed awaiting her home-call, she said to one of the Lord's messengers who sat by her side:

"Tell the friends across the water it was not in vain that they have paid my expenses here in the Mission-house, for I have found the Lord Jesus as my Saviour, and am now going to Him."

My dear young readers, perhaps no money is paid for you that you might hear of the Lord Jesus. But how sad, yea, how terrible it will be for you if you hear of a Saviour, and refuse to accept Him as your own, if you do not listen to His word; if you do not believe in Him, and follow Him!

"How shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation?" 2 Cor. 6:2.

Messages of God’s Love 3/28/1926

I Can't Understand It!

IT was four o'clock on a bright Sunday afternoon, the last hymn had been sung, and the children were all eager to be let out of school, when the superintendent said,

"We should be so glad if any boy or girl would stay with us to a short prayer meeting we are going to have this afternoon."

Several children remained, and among them a bright-faced little girl of about twelve.

She knelt very quietly in a corner, with her face buried in her little brown hands, while the short, earnest prayers were being offered up, and then tried to slip away without being noticed, but her teacher laid a hand on her shoulder, and said, kindly,

"Why won't you trust Jesus, Dorothy?"

The child laughingly shook off the detaining hand, and darted into the street. Then the little face grew very grave, and Dorothy said wearily to herself,

"That's what they all say, 'Why won't you trust Jesus?' and they can't see how all the time I am longing to know Him, but I can't understand it. I don't know the way to be saved. I wish I did— O! 1 wish I did."

Late that night Dorothy went up to her little room. All the evening she had tried to be her usual cheerful self, but there was such an aching in her heart, poor child—she was seeking the Good Shepherd, and she knew not where to look for Him.

Kneeling down by the window, she laid her head upon the sill, and let the tears flow.

"O if Jesus was here, if He lived on earth now," she thought, "I would go straight to Him, and tell Him all about it. I would tell Him that I cannot understand how to be saved, and He would help me to find out the way."

Suddenly a bright thought came. Wasn't Jesus there all the time with her in her little room? Even though she could not see Him, mightn't she speak with Him just the same? Why hadn't she thought of it before? And there, in the deepening twilight, Dorothy told Jesus all—how unhappy she was, and how she longed to be saved.

Long she knelt there—she had so much to tell the Lord Jesus—and when she at last got up from her knees the little face was perfectly radiant with happiness. Jesus had taken the trouble all away; she had found the way to Him at last.

"Seek ye the Lord while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near." Isa. 55:6.

"Blessed are all they that put their trust in Him." Psa. 2:12.

Messages of God’s Love 3/28/1926

The Toy Soldier

LITTLE Alfred had had a Ares' ent given him of some pretty toy soldiers, which charmed, him very much; but like most children, when he grew tired of his playthings, he would pull them to pieces and see how they were made. Now his aunt had told him when he had this last new present, that if he began to destroy it, the soldiers should be taken from him, so the little boy was trying his best to take care of them.

One winter's evening the child had his pretty soldiers out while his aunt was working in the same room, and he was busy putting up the little lead-men in rows to play a mimic battle.

Whether by accident or mischief, something happened that made him suddenly quiet, and his aunt looking across the table saw in Alfred's little hand a poor soldier broken off his steed, and Alfred's face covered with confusion.

His aunt felt bound to keep her word, so the child, having forfeited his toy, ran out of the room, while his aunt, equally full of sorrow, thought over what she could do about it, feeling that she must forgive him just this once, though she had always been very particular on every occasion to keep her word to the child.

Just then she felt his little hands touching her dress, for Alfred had crept back very quietly into the room, and with a wistful look in his large sweet eyes said,

"Auntie, I am so sorry I broke my soldier!"

"Well, dear," said his aunt, "I will forgive you this once." When the little fellow whispered softly,

"Auntie, has God touched your heart: I have been out and asked Him on the stairs to touch your heart, and to let you be willing to let me have my little soldier again."

"Yes, dear," she replied, "God has heard your little prayer; go again and play, and be more careful for the future.”

Dear little child, though hardly six years of age, yet he knew to Whom he should go in his childish sorrow, and the God of heaven deigned to listen to his little petition and answered him at once.

Dear children, God, to Whom little Alfred offered his prayer, will comfort you if you trust Him, and listen to all your little sorrows, and reward the prayer of faith, as He did when Alfred confessed his fault, and had again his box of pretty soldiers. But better still, the child's faith was strengthened by this little circumstance, and he learned for himself that God is indeed a prayer-answering God.

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

Messages of God’s Love 3/28/1926

Earth Was a Lovely Garden Once

Earth was a lovely garden once,

Where God Himself could walk,

While Adam, full of happiness,

Might with his Maker talk.

The rose then bloomed without a thorn,

No storm was in the sky;

The dove sought not for refuge then

Her rock, where she might fly.

The happiness, so quickly lost,

Came from the God of love;

But still unchanged by all the sin,

Love flows down from above.

Christ came, 'mid all our sin and woe,

To bear it all away,

And lead us to a better land,

Where smiles eternal day.

Messages of God’s Love 3/28/1926

Bible Questions for April

Answers to Bible Questions for February

"Be not deceived," etc. Gal. 6:7.

"Let the word of Christ," etc. Col. 3:16.

"For by grace are ye," etc. Eph. 2:8.

"Children, obey your," etc. Eph. 6:1.

"Who shall change our," etc. Phil. 3:21.

"For me to live is Christ," etc. Phil. 1:21.

''But that no man is," etc. Gal. 3:11.

Bible Questions for April

Rewards will be given (D. V.), for correct answers received until May, 1926, to those not getting help from others or concordance. Answers to be sent in not later than the first of the next month, with age and address plainly written. Address, E. B. Hartt, 40 Galley Ave., Toronto, 3, Ont., Can.

Answers are to be found in Philemon, Hebrews, and James

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Toward all saints."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "The manner of some."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "The express image."

Write in full the verse containing the words. "Stablish your hearts."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "The throne of grace."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Ask in faith."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "No remission."

Messages of God’s Love 4/4/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 2

Her request answered, and her son delivered up to God for His service, Hannah pours out her heart in exultant spirit in her prayer. Led of God far beyond the particular occasion which filled her with His praise, this mother's prophetic utterance carries on to the day when the Lord Jesus shall reign in righteousness in this world (verse 10). Not a word about herself does she say, save to tell that Jehovah is her object. Her once sad heart now rejoiced in Him, her strength—she had been the very picture of weakness as she wept and prayed—was exalted in Him, her mouth was enlarged over her enemies, because she rejoiced in God's salvation. This was enough to say about herself, but her words express the common experience of all the saints of God who, in trial and in need, go to Him with their burdens.

She turns to speak of Jehovah Himself, and at once mentions His holiness, that of which the Lord Jesus spoke in His prayer on the cross (Psalm 22:3); none beside Him, nor any rock like our God! In His presence pride has no place; He is a God of knowledge, weighing the actions of His creatures. Those who are self-satisfied, depending on their own resources, are brought low, while the hungry, the barren, the dead (in figure), the poor, are filled, raised up, enriched.

How exactly these verses express the blessed portion meted out to the confessed sinner who comes to God through Jesus; and the desolation that is theirs who trust in themselves, and await a lost eternity!

From the clear and happy testimony of Hannah, we are directed in verse 12 to the state of the priests who should have been examples of piety, and laboring to cleanse the people of the evil which as we have noticed in our readings in the book of Judges was sadly prevalent at this time. Instead, these 'two young men, though they had a godly father (to whose admonitions they gave no heed), were among the worst. Briefly, and solemnly the spiritual verdict is given in verse 12, and we may turn to verses 17 and 24, 25 for the character of their deeds in God's sight.

In such a scene it is pleasing to think of the child Samuel in verses 18, 21 and 26. God took notice, and the inspired writer of this book was directed to tell of this boy as serving Him in the midst of the flagrant evil of that day.

Eli had sadly failed in dealing with his sons; he had even honored his sons above God,—considered their wishes as superior to the word of Jehovah (verse 29), and a man of God came to the aged man, (God as it were refusing to speak to the priest directly), to bring the approaching judgment went home to his conscience. We are not told that Eli made any answer to the warning.

A faithful priest was to be raised up, and a king is promised before whom the priest should walk. Joshua had gone as directed by the priest of his day, who inquired of God for him, but the reference here is to Christ, the millennial King, greater than any priest.

Messages of God’s Love 4/4/1926

What Would You Do?

WHAT would you do if the Lord Jesus were to come at this moment?" was asked of a little girl.

"I would run away and hide," answered the child.

Would you "run away and hide," dear young readers; or could you give the answer that another little girl gave to the same question,

"I would throw my arms around Him"?

Adam and Eve hid themselves among the trees of the garden. Why? Because they knew they were sinners, and feared to meet God.

A day is coming when people will cry to the rocks, and call on them to hide them from the wrath of the Lamb (Rev. 6: 15-17). They will then know that they are sinners, and that they have rejected the only Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ, and they will be filled with terror when they think of His coming in judgment.

Only those whose sins are washed away in the precious blood of Christ, who are made whiter than snow, are ready to welcome the One who has done everything for them, when He shall come, not in judgment, but to call them to Himself.

Dear children would you welcome Him or hide from Him, if He were to come today?

"I go to prepare a place for you. And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:2, 3.

Messages of God’s Love 4/4/1926

Boy Wanted

PASSING along one of the busy streets was a boy looking for a situation. He had trudged along bravely at first, but no one seemed to be in need of a boy. At last he saw hanging in a door-way a card with the words,

—Boy Wanted—

Taking the card down, he put it under his arm and went into the office, where he saw the master himself.

"Please, sir, did you hang this card up?"

"Yes, and why did you take it down?" "Please, sir, I'm the boy."

So pleased was the gentleman with the boy's ready answer, that he did not hesitate to take him into his employ. He applied the matter personally, and received the situation. God's Word says,

"Whosoever will, let him take the water of Life freely." Rev. 22:17.

Dear boys, and girls, God is offering you to-day, salvation through Jesus' finished work on the cross. It comes to you without money and without price. It is God's precious gift to you, and He bids you take it. His Word says,

"How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation?" Heb. 2:3.

I am sure each little reader, feels his or her needs, for you know that God looks at the heart, and gives us a picture of it in Jer. 17:9,

"The heart is deceitful above all things and desperately wicked," so God in His love has provided a Saviour for you, in whose blood you may be washed whiter than snow.

As the boy appropriated the card to himself, and was rewarded, you too by personally accepting the Lord Jesus as your Saviour, will receive blessing to your souls.

"He that believeth on the Son, HATH everlasting life," John 3:36, and that, "believing ye might have life through His Name." John 20:31.

Messages of God’s Love 4/4/1926

The Redeemed Rabbit

WHEN I was a boy at school, a companion of mine had a pair of splendid rabbits, of which he was very fond. During the dark hours of night some one entered the "hutch," and stole one of them. After long searching, he heard that his lost rabbit was exposed for sale, among others, away at the other end of the town, so off he went to claim his own.

When he arrived at the place he saw his rabbit, and was about to carry it off, when a voice called out,

"You cannot take away that rabbit without paying for it; it's mine."

The boy ran off home, and told his father what had happened, who at once saw the state of affairs, and gave him sufficient money wherewith to redeem the captive rabbit. The price was paid, the rabbit was set free, and restored to its original owner.

Often as I remember this story of early days, I think how aptly it illustrates our condition as sinners. Sin carried us away from God, and we became captives to Satan. Moreover, the law was against us, for we had broken it, and earned its curse. Only by redemption could we be set free, and this redemption price Jesus paid in His own blood.

No boy or girl need remain in Satan's kingdom any longer. Yet many do. They love their sins, and refuse to go free and return to God. Yet Jesus says,

"Return unto Me; for I have redeemed thee." Isa. 44:22.

Messages of God’s Love 4/4/1926

The Down Hill Race

THE two little brothers have started out for a race down the hill on their wagon. But as down the pathway they sped, little baby brother became frightened, until he gave vent to his feelings in loud cries and tears. The elder brother was not so, but rather enjoyed it, not thinking of the danger that might possibly be ahead.

How like this older brother it is to many who are hastening on down the pathway of life not thinking of what is ahead of them, with no thought or fear of God before their eyes, and forgetting that any moment may be their last upon earth, and they may be ushered into eternity.

God tells us in His word,

"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: AND UNTO THEM THAT LOOK FOR HIM SHALL HE APPEAR THE SECOND TIME WITHOUT SIN UNTO SALVATION." Heb. 9:27, 28.

Yes, dear reader, there is terrible judgment ahead, for all those who will go on carelessly to the very end; but for those who will fear God and will gladly take Christ as the One who has been offered for our sins on Calvary's cross, there is salvation.

O, do not put this solemn question aside carelessly, for at any moment you may enter eternity, and if in carelessness, it will mean eternal woe for you. Nothing can be of greater importance to settle.

"Do you say "What shall I do?" The Lord Jesus answers,

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

Messages of God’s Love 4/4/1926

Playing-School

HOW much children like to play school! Here we have five in the class, and, of course, the teacher must have a switch in his hand to punish with, as that always seems the best part of playing school. We know, too, they don't like to punish so that it will hurt. All is done in fun, and many a merry laugh they have over it.

This, dear children, reminds us that there is punishment in school for those who do what is wrong; and those who do what is right are rewarded.

So it is as to our having to do with God, and you know we all have to say to Him about everything. And in His dealings with us, if we do what is wrong, we suffer for it in this life, and if we do what is right, we receive a blessing for it in this life. But, remember, there is not only the suffering or blessing according to what we may do in this life, but there is eternal punishment for all who will reject Christ Jesus as their Saviour.

That is the one important question to settle, and you cannot attend to it to soon. Salvation's door will soon be closed, and then the offer of salvation full and free to whosoever will accept it, will be given no longer, but He who now says, "Come unto Me," will then say, "Depart from Me."

O, dear children, may you now come to the Lord Jesus, as your Saviour, if you have not done so, and do not be afraid to confess Him before others. Seek in every way to please Him, and He will reward you, not only in this life, but for eternity.

"WHOSOEVER THEREFORE SHALL CONFESS ME BEFORE MEN, HIM WILL I CONFESS ALSO BEFORE1MY FATHER WHICH IS IN HEAVEN." Matt. 10:32

Messages of God’s Love 4/11/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 3

The lovely story, with which this chapter begins has had an appeal to children in all ages, we may be sure. That God should come into the growing boy's room and call him by name; call him again and again, after he had got up out of his bed and gone to Eli's side, and finally tell him what he needed to know to guard him against joining in the wickedness of the young men, is deeply interesting to old as well as young.

Verse 1. God had withdrawn from the open access to His presence which Moses enjoyed, it seems. Rarely did He speak to Israel now; and he did not tell His mind in dreams as before.

Verse 2. Only Eli is mentioned; the sons devoted to wickedness are left out; we see only the very old man and the young boy in his teens.

Verse 3. Why should the lamp of God have been permitted to go out? Exodus 27:20, 21 speaks of the light burning through the night from evening to morning, always.

Verses 5-9 show a right spirit in Samuel, prompt to obey the calls; no word of complaint is heard at having to leave his bed repeatedly. Surely his mother had sought to bring her boy up in the fear of the Lord which is the beginning of wisdom and every, other good. He did not know what the boys in many Christian homes are privileged to know of Christ as Saviour,—but though knowing little (verse 7), Samuel was in favor both with God and also with men, as we learned in chapter 2, verse 26. He was in his day a model boy, though when we think of the standard for all children, we turn to Luke 2, verses 40-52, where Christ is told of as a boy with Mary and Joseph.

There was no purging the iniquity of Eli's house. The mercy of God had been exceeded. He that is often reproved and hardens him-self shall suddenly be cut off, and without remedy. The day when forgiveness was possible, had passed for these who despised God.

Verse 15. What thoughts were Samuel's as he lay through the night before morning dawned! It does not appear that he slept that night.

Verse 18, Eli's comment on Samuel's report in the morning shows submission, for after all he was true in heart to God, but how painful this last announcement of the now near approach of the divine intervention must have been. There could be no doubt in Eli's mind that Samuel was to be a prophet of God, and that he himself was practically set aside as a priest.

Deeply affecting is the story of Eli, and a powerful warning it ought to be to every Christian parent. How much needed in this day!

Messages of God’s Love 4/11/1926

Not Too Early

MR. Calvert, a missionary, preparing to hold some gospel meetings in Sidney; one of the principal cities of Australia, rented a hall for that purpose.

When he and his wife entered the building, as yet no one had come.

"My dear wife," said the missionary, looking at his watch, "the hour is come,

let us be prompt:" so opening the window he and his wife began to sing loudly and earnestly.

Bye and bye the people began coming, until the hall was filled. After the meeting was over, Mr. Calvert, in going from one to the other, was informed that he opened the meeting too soon, and so, wanting to convince himself, pulled out his watch, compared the time, and found it to be fifteen minutes fast.

The next day he received a letter. A stranger, traveling through those parts, had written it and related the following:

The day before yesterday, Saturday, I came to Sidney. Many years I've lived in Tasmania, working very hard. During this time, I had saved a considerable amount of money, and with it I intended to start a business of my own, in a neighboring town. While going back and forth, my money was stolen from me. So I lost everything that I had worked hard for, for many years. Not even was there enough left to pay my hotel bill, and in all Sidney I didn't have a friend or relative. I became downcast beyond measure, and, not believing in God, I decided to take my life. I hadn't the heart to begin a life of hard work all over again.

So leaving my quarters on Saturday, I resolved to end it all. Suddenly, while on the way, the singing that came to my ear through an open window, arrested me. I was rooted to the spot, and didn't think any more of pursuing my course, but turned and followed the crowd. I had not been inside of a place of worship for many years, and the preaching and songs that I heard in that place, had such a powerful effect over me, that I left, a changed person. The thought that God is ready to help us, gave me fresh courage, so that I have forever given up that dark plan of going into death without God, and the forgiveness of my sins.

Right here, dear reader, I would like to present to you God's wonderful love. We see it manifested in the foregoing, and in your own life you could, no doubt, many times, tell of divine guidance. But God's love is fully told out in the giving of His only Son.

John 3:16, tells us, that, "God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

"God so loved the WORLD," that takes in you, for you are a part of it; "that He GAVE," here God is giving, for you it is just to accept "His only begotten Son." What a gift! A lesser would not have done, and a greater, God had not to give; "that WHOSOEVER," that means you, "BELIEVETH." Now, dear reader, this is all you are called upon to do, just, to believe,—the most simple thing that God could ask of you. You can do this anywhere,—at. home, work, school, and, yes, even when laid on a bed of sickness, when you can't lift a finger to help yourself, just one look of faith to Jesus on the cross will save your precious soul. "Whosoever believeth on Him, should NOT PERISH," God's sure Word, "should not," "but have EVERLASTING LIVE," continual, eternal, unceasing life, with Christ in glory.

Notice all that God did in this blessed verse. He loved, gave His Son, saves from perishing, gives everlasting life. Now, what is your part in all this? "Whosoever believeth," only believe and receive everlasting life. God could not have made the way of salvation more easy; and this is not man's word, remember, it is God's. blessed Word. Don't put off your soul's salvation any longer. Accept Christ now and eternal life shall be yours.

As we meditate on the foregoing, we see one of the many ways God has of saving a lost soul. Such is His love.

Calvert answered that letter, and requested the stranger to visit him. He told him that his watch was fifteen minutes fast, and so had started the services toc early.

"Too early?—no not too early," the stranger said, "for in a few moments I would have passed unarrested to my destruction, and been forever lost."

Did this happen by chance? Surely not. It was heavenly guidance and mercy.

GOD'S MEASURELESS LOVE

Could we with ink the ocean fill,

And were the skies of parchment made;

Were every blade of grass a quill,

And every man a scribe by trade;

To write the love

Of God above

Would drain the ocean dry;

Nor could the scroll

Contain the whole,

Though stretched from sky to sky.

Messages of God’s Love 4/11/1926

Gifts

HISTORY tells us of magnificent presents bestowed by earth's great ones upon those whom they esteemed, or whose good will they deemed it well to seek; but the choicest Gift that was ever given, the greatest present that was ever made, was the Gift, the wondrous Gift, given by the great God to guilty rebels, who deserved naught but judgment, and banishment from His presence for ever.

"God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." "He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life." John 3: 16, 36.

Is not Christ the grandest gift that was ever given? Have you, dear children, accepted God's Gift which. He is now offering to you? Through Christ you will receive every blessing and happiness that it is possible for you to have, both now and for eternity.

Will you not say from the heart, "God, I accept Thy precious Gift, the Lord Jesus Christ, as my own Saviour," and thank Him, for His wondrous Gift?

Messages of God’s Love 4/11/1926

Jesus Is the Saviour

Jesus is the Saviour,

Died to save the lost,

Found me as a sinner,

Guilty, vile and lost.

Jesus is the Saviour,

He is kind to me;

nce He died to save me,

Nailed upon a tree.

Jesus is the Saviour,

is ever kind;

Look to Him forever,—

Rest in Him you'll find.

Jesus is the Saviour,

He washed my sins away,

He'll take my hand and lead me

Along the narrow way.

Jesus is the Saviour,—

If I do His will,

Then I will be happy,

Safe from every ill.

Jesus is the Saviour,

Coming by and by,

I shall soon be with Him,

Up above the sky.

—————-

Christ is coming, Are you ready?

He is coming for His own;

He will call them up to meet Him,

And will place them on His throne.

Messages of God’s Love 4/11/1926

Alice and Her Kittens

HIS picture makes me think of a story I once read about a little girl named Alice, and her kittens. They were pretty kitties, like the ones in our picture, and were great pets. Alice watched them every day getting bigger and bigger, and it seemed as though she loved them more and more. All the time she had to herself was spent in playing with her pets, and each morning and evening she shared her milk with them.

But one day when Alice was at school, a fierce dog got into the yard where her kittens were, and killed them. When the little girl found out they were dead, her grief was extreme, and she cried for days.

"Darling, I can tell you of One who will never die." 'Mice listened eagerly while her mother told her of Jesus, and how by His death, He had put away the sins of those who trust Him, and that if she would receive Him as her Saviour, He would give her peace and joy, as well as tell her that all her sins were put away by His death. Then she would know Him who said,

"I AM HE THAT LIVETH AND WAS DEAD, AND BEHOLD I AM ALIVE FOR EVER MORE." Rev. 1:18.

Alice had often heard this before, but it had never impressed her as it did now. She felt how much she needed the One who says, "I am alive for ever more," and there and then, on her mother's lap, she believed on Him, and began to love the "One who will never die."

Messages of God’s Love 4/18/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 4

In the third chapter, verses 11, 12, God had said to the boy Samuel that He was going to do a thing in Israel at which both the ears of every one that heard should tingle; in that day He would perform against Eli all that He had spoken concerning his house. The time was now come.

Verse 1. The first sentence should be separated from the second. The word of Samuel, or what Samuel had said happened to all Israel. Perhaps it was a long time before it happened, but we may be sure that what God promises, He will perform.

It was right to fight against the Philistines, but the people of Israel were themselves going, on in sin as chapter 7, verse 3 shows, and God's first controversy is with His people. So at the first engagement, about four thousand men were killed. Rightly is the question then raised (verse 3) "Wherefore hath the Lord smitten us today before the Philistines?" but there is no answer nor apparently did they ask of God; instead they tried to connect the presence of God with their own unjudged and sinful condition. But God is not mocked (Galatians 6:7).

All Israel might shout, so that the earth rang again, but it was a vain show, and the Philistines had but to quit themselves like men (verse 9) when the people suffered a second and far greater defeat, losing thirty thousand footmen. Now the ark of God, the sign and the place of God's relationship with Israel, was taken, and the two wicked sons of Eli were killed.

But this is not all; one man escaped from the second battle with the Philistines, and ran to Shiloh, where the ark of God had been, and where the aged Eli anxiously waited (verse 13). Hearing the terrible news from the messenger's lips, the old priest fell backward and died.

His daughter-in-law, the wife of Phinehas, on learning of the taking of the ark by the Philistines and the death of Eli and her husband, named the position of Israel as she died: her son just born must bear the name of Ichabod,—"the glory is departed from Israel." Such was indeed their place—the ark was gone, and the empty tabernacle was left without a priest through whom the people might approach to God or offer their sacrifices.

Nevertheless the faithful God did not leave Himself without means of communicating with His wayward people; as the prophet, Samuel, presently comes before us.

Messages of God’s Love 4/18/1926

The Beggars

ELLEN BIRD and her two little ones, Annie and Mollie, started out, as was their wont, on this cold day in December, to try how much pity was left in the world. They were poorly clad, and felt the cold keenly. They tramped all day, getting very little, and just at the close, on their way to their comfortless garret, they heard a clink on the pavewent, and Ellen Bird picked up a piece of money.

"She lost it, Mother"; cried little Annie, "let me give it back; she's poor like ourselves."

The woman looked at the money, the temptation was strong, but the child's entreaties prevailed.

"There, take it," she said, "we won't rob the poor." In a moment Annie had found its owner.

"Here's your money, little girl", she said, "we won't keep it, for you are poor. Where do you live? Are you a beggar like us?" The girl looked quite angry, as she answered,

"No, indeed, none of us are beggars: and mother said we were never to speak to beggars." She darted off, leaving little Annie sobbing at the ingratitude of her new acquaintance.

Ellen Bird was by descent a beggar, and had married a tramp. While her husband lived, they were seldom long in one place. After his death, she settled in B. where begging, as in many manufacturing towns, was a lucrative trade.

Low and degraded as the poor woman was, she did love these two children, and it was this only that preserved her from becoming much worse. After they reached home. Annie said, in a determined voice,

"Mother, I won't be a beggar anymore!"

"And what will you be, little lady?' she asked.

"I don't know," sobbed Annie, "but I don't want any more to be laughed at by wicked girls. I want to work."

"You'd soon tire of that," said her mother with a scornful laugh. "Here, child, eat this and go to sleep; there's little rest and plenty of hunger for those who work." The child took her supper, and said no more, and when Ellen Bird awoke next morning, there was no one near her, but little Molly. It was at early dawn that Annie had risen and stolen softly down the stair into the street, resolved to be a beggar no longer. She walked some distance, when she saw a women busy sweeping down the steps in front of her store. Annie turned and said,

"Please, ma'am, do you need a little girl like me to carry your vegetables?" The woman looked at her kindly, but said,

"No, my dear, and if I did, it wouldn't be a little arm like yours that could carry my baskets." Then hastily entering her shop, she returned with a bun. Annie took the bun, and turned sadly away. Many such answers she received, and some harsher ones too; till at last she sat down on a door-step to cry, and to eat her bun, for she was hungry as well as weary.

While there, she saw an old gentleman coming down the street, and she thought that he had a kind face, and she would ask him,

"Please, sir."

"Get along, get along. I don't like little beggars." Poor little Annie, burst into tears, as she saw her last hope failing her, but sobbed out,

"I don't want to beg."

"What do you want, then?" he asked in the same rough voice.

"Please, sir, I want to get work," she answered.

"Come along with me, and I will give you a chance."

Annie followed her new friend to a handsome home, and when a servant opened the door, he was told to take her into the kitchen and give her some breakfast. After some time she was sent for, and taken into a large room where the old gentleman was sitting along with an old lady, who looked as kind as himself. They asked her many questions,—about her mother, and their former life, and what now had made her wish to work. Annie told them the whole truth; at last the lady said,

"My dear, we think you too young to work, but we will send you to a school where you will learn to read, and be taught to love and fear God, and when you are older, we will put you into some way of gaining an honest livelihood."

This was, indeed, far better than Annie had ever dreamed of, and her evident joy pleased her new friends.

(To be continued)

Messages of God’s Love 4/18/1926

Garco

THIS is a story of a poor little black boy in Africa. Little Garco has no parents and he stays with the missionaries' boys on the concession. He is only ten years old, yet he helps in the dispensary, waiting on the medical helpers. This little boy loves the Lord Jesus very much, and loves to pray. Often his sweet little voice is heard in pleadings to God, and in praising Him.

Garco took sick three weeks ago with double pneumonia. Not having a hospital, we brought him on the verandah of the home of the girls, and with mats made him a room where he could be close to us and have plenty of air. He was very sick, and several times we struggled to save him. The faith of the little fellow never wavered. He believed God would answer his prayer to live, and take the Gospel story to his own people, the Kare tribe. Every time it was hard for him to take medicine or food, he would say, "Wait until I pray." Then after a few words of prayer for strength, he would take what was brought for him. Twice in the night we found his heart weak, and came with the large hypodermic needle, and he was always willing to take the injections after a word of prayer. Patiently he waited upon God to cure him. When the natives came to see him, he would tell them he was very sick, but God would heal him, and he wanted to pray. He wanted the white people to pray for him, and we did again and again.

God healed the little boy, and he did not forget to praise Him for it. As he lay on his bed convalescing, we could often hear him singing and praying. We were touched by his simple faith.

While taking care of Garco, I praised God for him, and know you too are glad that this poor little boy away off in Africa, knows and loves the Lord Jesus.

I wonder whether the little children in America cannot learn a lesson from him, so that when they find things hard to do or to bear, they will pray to God for strength?

"The Lord is nigh unto all them that call upon Him, to all that call upon Him in truth." Psa. 145:18.

Messages of God’s Love 4/18/1926

Eternity

ETERNITY, Eternity,

How long art thou, Eternity?

Count the gold and silver blossoms

Spring has scattered o'er the sea,

Count the softly sounding ripples,

Sparkling in the summer sea.

Count the lightly flickering shadows

In the autumn forest glade,

Count pale Nature's scattered teardrops,

Icy gems by winter made.

Count the tiny blades that glitter

Early in the morning dew,

Count the desert sand that stretches

Under noontide's vault of blue.

Count the notes that wood-birds warble

In the evening's fading light,

Count the stars that gleam and twinkle

O'er the firmament of night.

When thy counting all is done,

Scarce eternity's begun.

Reader, pause, where wilt thou be

During thine eternity?

Messages of God’s Love 4/18/1926

Watching

IT may be for papa or mamma that the dear children are watching at the window. Their happy faces tell how glad they will be to see their loved one come.

I wonder if each of my little readers have a loved one you are watching for?

I can tell you, there is One who loves you, and He is waiting for the time when He can come to take those who have put their trust in Him, to be with Himself. Can you tell me who that is? I think I hear some one say, It is the Lord Jesus. Yes, He is the One who said,

"Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not."

Some did not want the little children to be brought to the Lord Jesus, but He let them know that He loved them, and He took them up in His arms and blessed them.

But now, another question, Do you love Him? I am sure some of my readers do, and they are watching for the Lord to come. He has said to such,

"Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour." Matt. 25:13.

We cannot say just when the Lord will come, but He has given us another word. He has said, "Behold I come quickly." Rev. 22:7.

O, dear reader, are you ready to go when the Lord carries, or will you be one of those who will be left behind? The only way to be ready is to accept the Lord Jesus as your Saviour, and then you will be one of His, and when He comes, He will take you. If you are His, are you watching for Him to come?

"WHAT I SAY UNTO YOU, I SAY UNTO ALL, WATCH." Mark 13:37.

Messages of God’s Love 4/25/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 5

The Philistines took the ark of God into their own country, that holy ark that none but God's priests might touch; which was always kept in the most holy place in the tabernacle—God's dwelling place—was now put—where? Into the house of Dag-on, their god.

God allowed the Philistines to take the ark, because He meant to punish Israel for their wickedness, and for the wickedness of Eli's sons, as He told Samuel He would.

The Philistines were very proud of having the ark in the house of their god, but when they went in the next morning, the idol was thrown down before the ark of the Lord.

They set it up again, and the next day when they came in, they found their idol fallen down, and its head and its hands

were cut off for God could not allow a false god to be set up in the presence of His throne, and He sent a dreadful sickness upon the Philistines.

The Philistines then said, "What shall we do with the ark of the God of Israel?" They sent it to another place,—Ekron,— and the people there cried out that they had brought the ark to them to destroy them, and God heard their cry. He could not allow His ark to be in the hands of wicked, idol worshipers.+

Messages of God’s Love 4/25/1926

The Beggars

(Continued from ML 4/18/1926)

The first day at school was a wonderful day for little Annie, especially the Bible Class, where she was taught of Jesus' dying love, and that by faith, her sins could be washed away by His precious blood. The teacher turned to her, and said,

"My child; what do you know about God?"

"I do not know about God," she said. "Mother speaks of Him, when she is angry."

"Poor, poor child," he said, "and yet you have lived ten years in what we call a Christian land." She learned that day two texts, "God is love"; and, "Thou God seest me." To hear that she had a Father in heaven, was indeed good news to her. She wanted to tell everyone she met, the wonderful story of God's love.

On reaching the comfortless home, her mother did not want to hear anything about the Word of God, and what Annie had learned that day.

Each morning found Annie at her post in the school, and the rapid progress she made surprised the teachers, and delighted Mr. Moore, the kind old gentleman who had brought her there. He found out their miserable garret, that he might try and get little Mollie to school too.

Some months have passed since the beginning of our story. One evening Mollie and her mother were later than usual in returning from their wanderings. Annie had come home and done all she could to make the little place look comfortable. At last they came. Annie noticed her mother's face more flushed than usual; nothing seemed to please her, and she poured out her anger on the dear children.

"O, mother". Annie cried, "do not speak like that, 'God is love,' God gives us everything, and He is our Father in heaven."

"What has He given to Ellen Bird but a life of sorrow and shame, want and wretchedness?" the mother replied. Annie crept very close to her and whispered softly,

"Mother, dear, God has given you Mollie and me." She had touched the right chord, the only soft point in that long hardened heart. Ellen flung her arms wildly round the child, and wept as she had never wept before, and Annie knew that she was felt to be a good gift from her Father in heaven.

Ellen Bird had little thought when she went out that morning, that it was the last day of her beggar life; but so it was,— the flushed face and wild voice that so startled Annie, was the beginning of a violent rheumatic fever, and when the fever was over, she was carried a poor helpless cripple to the poor house in the town.

Annie and Mollie were both boarded in the school by their kind friends, and their weekly visits to their mother were the one enjoyment of her life.

When Annie was eighteen, her ability seemed so great that she was sent to a normal school, and when her training there was completed, she was appointed principal of a good school some miles from B.

The joy and gratitude of her heart were now complete,—she knew the Lord Jesus as her Saviour, Shepherd, Friend, and had the pleasure of bringing her poor mother to Jesus. and now the Lord had given her a nice home, to which she could bring her mother and Mollie,—a sweet little cottage fragrant with roses and honey suckle. It was a happy day, when she and Mollie helped to lift her poor invalid mother in a comfortable chair provided for her by their friend, Mrs. Moore.

"Blessings on you, my two dear children," she said, as they laid her carefully down. "I never looked for this, but Annie, I have, through grace, learned it all now, and can heartily thank God for all, and for my precious Saviour too, surely, 'God is love,' and we owe everything to Him."

"He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the Throne of glory." 1 Samuel 2:8.

Messages of God’s Love 4/25/1926

Your Sin Will Find You Out

MANY years ago Duke B. on one of his walks through the country, bought a cow from a man who had a nice herd of cattle to pasture, with the instruction that he was to bring it to the duke's estate the following morning. According to this agreement the cow was brought; and the duke, who took a walk in his plain morning suit through the park grounds, noticed a small boy, who tried in vain to bring the cow to its destination. The boy, who did not know the duke, cried to him:

"Sir, can't you help me drive this cow?"

The duke, amused at the incident, decided to have a little fun with the boy. At first he acted as though he had not heard him, and walked slowly on, while the boy increased his pleadings. At last in great perplexity, the young herdsman cried pitifully:

"Do come and help me; and I will give you the half of my pocket money which I will get."

This last effort gained the boy's object; the duke came and helped him.

"And now," said the duke, while walking along with the boy, "how much do you expect for your trouble?"

"I, I don't know," said the boy; "but 1 am certain to get something, for the people in that house are very kind to everyone."

When they approached the castle, the duke hastily withdrew from the boy, and entered the gate through some narrow footpath. Then he called one of his servants, and giving him a gold coin, said;

"Give that to the little shepherd-boy, who brought the cow."

After that the duke returned to the park and waited the return of the boy.

"Well, how much did you get?" asked the duke.

"One shilling," said the boy.

"But you surely received more than a shilling?" said the duke.

"No," answered the boy, very seriously, "I surely did not get more,—and don't you think that is enough?"

"No, not at all," said the duke; "there must be a mistake, seeing I am well acquainted with the duke. I believe you will get more, if you turn back with me."

The boy agreed, and they returned together. Upon entering, the duke rang a bell, and called for all the servants.

"Now," said the duke to the boy, "show me the one who gave you the shilling, that I may investigate the matter."

"That one," he said, pointing to the chief servant. The delinquent fell upon his knees, confessing his dishonesty, and sought to excuse it; but the duke interrupted, demanding him to give the boy the gold coin, and to leave his position of service immediately.

"Through your covetousness," said the duke, "you have lost your money, your position and your good name; and I hope you will henceforth learn that dishonesty is not only a dreadful sin, but also the greatest foolishness."

In the meantime the boy discovered that the man he had appealed to for help, was the duke himself; who so delighted at the honesty and uprightness of the poor shepherd-boy, that he had him placed in a good school, where he was instructed at the expense of the kind duke.

You see, dear children, how the sin of the unfaithful man was revealed, so God will also, one day, disclose every guilt, and judge the sinner in righteousness.

"There is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; neither hid, that shall not be known." Luke 12:2.

Messages of God’s Love 4/25/1926

How Loving is Jesus

How loving is Jesus,

Who came from the sky, I

n tenderest pity,

For sinners to die!

His hands and His feet

Were nailed to the tree,

And all this He suffered

For sinners like me.

How precious is Jesus,

To all who believe!

And out of His fullness

When grace they receive!

When weak He supports them,

When erring He guides,

And everything needful

He kindly provides.

How gladly does Jesus

Free pardon impart

To all who receive Him

By faith in their heart:

And glory is for them,

Their home is above:

Soon Jesus will fetch them

To dwell in His love.

Messages of God’s Love 4/25/1926

Bible Questions for May

Answers to Bible Questions for March

''In flaming fire," etc. 2 Thess. 1:8.

"All scripture is given," etc. 2 Tim. 3:16.

"And to wait for His," etc. 1 Thess. 1:10.

"Teaching us, that," etc. Titus 2:12.

"That they do good," etc. 1 Tim. 6:18.

"In like manner also," etc. 1 Tim. 2:0.

"Then we which are," etc. 1 Thess. 4:17.

Bible Questions for May

The answers are to be found in 1 and 2 Peter, 1, 2 and 3 John, and Jude

Write in full the verse containing the words, "The world knoweth us not."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "That which is good."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Gold that perisheth."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Shall be burned up."

Write in full the verse containing the words. "Looking for the mercy.'

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Receive him not."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Watch unto prayer."

Messages of God’s Love 5/2/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 6

It was the purpose of God to bring back the ark to its own place in the land of Israel. At the end of seven months, the lords of the Philistines agreed to send it away, and to send a trespass offering with it. So they gave glory to the God of Israel, because they confessed that He was the holy God who had sent the judgment upon them.

They made a new cart, and tied two cows to the cart to draw it, shutting up their calves at home. They then put the ark upon the cart, and watched to see which way the cows would go. They took the straight road to Israel's country, turning neither to the right hand nor to the left. In this God showed He was the Creator, for no one else could so tell the cows to do.

When some of the men of Bethshemesh saw the ark of God coming, they rejoiced. They put the ark on a large stone, broke the cart and set fire to the wood and offered up the cows for a burnt offering to the Lord.

But a very sad thing happened, they looked into the ark, which showed they had forgotten what Moses had told them not to do,

"They shall not go in and see for a moment the holy things, lest they die." Numbers 4:20 (New Trans.).

The Lord smote the people because they looked into the ark.

That is what so many people are doing today trying to look into the divinity of Christ and the blessed Word of God, reasoning about these things which the puny mind of man cannot comprehend.

Christ is the eternal Son of God who became a man in order to go to the cross and die for us, thus becoming our blessed Saviour.

The Word of God cannot be broken, and shall stand for ever.

Messages of God’s Love 5/2/1926

Evening Prayer

OUR two little friends are thanking God for His care over them during the past day, and He delights to see the dear children praying from the heart to Him.

Fresh air, sunshine, food, clothing, houses to live in and many other things He kindly gives to us. Surely we should thank Him for them all.

"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights." James 1:17.

There is one gift the best of all— that God has given for us, and is offering to us all, His blessed Son to be our Saviour. I wonder if you have accepted this wonderful gift, and have thanked Him for the Lord Jesus Christ who went to the cross to bear the punishment for our sins?

"THANKS BE UNTO GOD FOR HIS UNSPEAKABLE GIFT." 2 Cor. 9:15.

Messages of God’s Love 5/2/1926

The Happy Little Girl

WOULD you like to know who was the happiest child I ever saw? Listen, and I will tell you.

The happiest child I ever saw was a little girl whom I met in the train. We were both going to the same city, and we traveled a great many miles together.

She was only eight years old, and quite blind. She had never been able to see at all. She had never seen the sun, nor the stars, the flowers, or any of the very pleasant things which you see every day of your lives; but still she was quite happy.

She was alone, having no friends nor relations to take care of her on her journeyings, and to be kind to her; but she was so happy and contented. When she came into the train she asked,

"Tell me how many people there are in this car? I am quite blind and can see nothing." A gentleman asked her if she was not afraid.

"No," she said, "I am not frightened; I have traveled before, and I trust in God, and people are always kind to me."

I soon found out the reason why she was so happy, and what do you think it was? She knew the Lord Jesus Christ was her Saviour.

I began to talk to her about the Bible, and I very soon found that she knew a great deal of it. She went to school where the teacher used to read the Bible to her.

I asked her what portions of the Bible she liked best. She said she liked all about Jesus, and was very fond of the last three chapters of Revelation. I had my Bible with me, and I read those chapters to her.

When I had finished, she began to talk about heaven.

"Think how nice it will be to be there!

There will be no more sorrow nor crying, and Jesus will be there, for the Bible says, `The Lamb is the light thereof, and we shall always be there with Him."

"What will it be to dwell above,

And with the Lord of glory reign?"

Messages of God’s Love 5/2/1926

But Jesus Can Save Me!

AN English general who became famous for his bravery, was a believing Christian.

Often he would take his little son into his arms and tell him about the Lord Jesus. One day he said to the little one:

"Would my little boy like to go to heaven?"

"Yes, papa."

"But how would you get there, where the holy God is; and your little heart is full of sin?"

"But all people are sinners, papa!"

"That is true," said the father, "still God has said, that only those that are pure in heart, shall see Him, and you have no, pure heart; how shall that come about?"

The boy became very sad, the sorrow could be seen in his face, and he began to weep, and laying his little head on his father's chest said:

"But, papa, Jesus can save me!"

He had confidence in the Saviour, for he had often heard that the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin. So he took refuge in the Lord Jesus and found peace.

Have you done that yet, my reader? Have you ever even acknowledged that your heart is sinful, and that you cannot enter heaven with that? 0 allow yourself to be washed in the precious blood of. the Lord Jesus; confess your sins to Him, bring them to the Saviour, tell Him all, keep back nothing, for He said:

"Him that cometh to Me, I will in no wise cast out."

As soon as He becomes your Saviour, then He is also your Good Shepherd, who will lead you in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake.

Messages of God’s Love 5/2/1926

Letter to Those Answering Bible Questions for Term Ending April 1926.

To our many friends:—-

As another year has passed away, we are reminded of the soon coming of our Lord, and what cause we have for thanksgiving that every moment His watchful eye has been on us and His strong arms have protected us from many evils. His mercies have been new every morning, and in view of these we should be able to say with the Psalmist, "Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits." Psa., 103:2. But above all temporal blessings, He has blessed those who have placed their trust in Him with blessings that are to abide, such as the forgiveness of all our sins, (Eph., 1:7); has made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light, (Col., 1:12); has given us peace with God, (Rom., 5:1) etc., and has given us the blessed hope that He soon will come and receive us unto Himself where we shall share all His joys for eternity. And all these blessings belong to little children who have received Christ as their Saviour, just as well as to older people, and He wants us to believe and enjoy them:

Our constant prayer is that all who take an interest in looking up the answers to the questions will read the Word carefully, and believe it and seek to profit by it, and true and lasting blessing will be the result.

If one of our readers has not yet believed in Christ to the saving of the soul, we would again warn you of the awful danger of delay, for soon God's day of grace will be over. Remember His word says, "Behold, NOW is the accepted time; behold, NOW is the day of salvation," 2 Cor., 6:2. We have no promise for tomorrow. Not a year passes but some of our company are called away by death, and no one but God knows whose turn will come next.

A number of our friends leave out either their name or address, and we are unable to trace them, so we must again ask that age, name and address be given in full with each set of Answers.

We are glad to say that the list of names this year is larger than ever before, and we trust there has been more glory brought to the Lord Jesus, and real and abiding blessing brought to our readers. If we are spared for another year may the Lord grant us a still further harvest of blessing.

We hope to mail all the rewards by the first day of May, D. V., but if left here through this term, we deem it best to send the rewards out the first of July, as quite a number sent in their names too late for them to appear in the paper.

E. B. HARTT.

———————

Many little ones are reading

God's most sacred Word,

Finding answers to the Questions;

Learning of the Lord.

Many little eyes are scanning

Through the sacred page,

Thus the Word of God they're learning

At an early age.

Many little hands are writing

What God's Word has said,

And their little hearts are feeding

On the Heavenly Bread.

May they each, in early childhood,

Learn to trust the Lord;

And their lives be formed and fashioned

By God's Holy Word.

Messages of God’s Love 5/2/1926

The Dog and the Rabbits

WHAT a strange thing to find a dog, and especially one who has been trained to hunt rabbits, stay beside two tame rabbits and watch them, so that they would not run away. Such was the case with a dog whose master had succeeded in making him understand that he must not touch these rabbits, so he quietly watched them and would not allow them to run out of the lawn.

The reason we see one animal seeking to destroy another, is because of sin being in the world.

Satan was the one who brought it in, so when his power shall be taken from him, then the animals shall be at rest. (Isa. 11:6-9)

The marks of a true Christian, are, lowliness, meekness, gentleness and peace. They are to be seen in all their perfection in the Lord Jesus Christ. He is the One who represents all believers before God in all His perfection, so the Scripture says,

"Such an High Priest became us, who is holy, harmless. undefiled, separate from sinners, and made higher than the heavens." Heb. 7:26.

"BE YE KIND ONE TO ANOTHER, TENDERHEARTED, FORGIVING ONE ANOTHER, EVEN AS GOD FOR CHRIST'S SAKE HATH FORGIVEN YOU." Eph. 4:32.

Messages of God’s Love 5/9/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 7

The men of Kirjath-jearim brought the ark into the house of Abinadab, and it remained ' in Kirjath-jearim for twenty years, but the house of Israel lamented after the Lord. When we are away from the Lord we are not happy, and we should desire to get back into His company. The first thing to be done is to confess all our wrong to God, and separate from everything that had taken His place in our hearts.

"If you do return unto the Lord with all your hearts." Let us weigh every word. He does not want us to be halfhearted for Him.

"Prepare your hearts to serve Him only." If you are a true believer in Him, it will be your delight to serve Him only. How can you serve Him only, and serve the world too?

"Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God." James 4:4.

Samuel said "Gather all Israel to Mizpeh; and I will pray for you." Samuel believed that God would hear prayer, and prayer was the only weapon Samuel ever used.

When Israel had fasted and confessed, "We have sinned against the Lord," then He delivered them out of the hand of the Philistine.

Messages of God’s Love 5/9/1926

Willie's Marble

A QUARTER to one o'clock; just enough time for a game of marbles," said Willie to his comrades; and immediately the game was begun.

Willie was an orphan, and did not have much he could call his own, still he possessed one nice marble which he valued very much, because it had been his father's, who as a sailor, claimed he traveled twice around the world with it.

'During the game, the marble rolled away unnoticed. All the boys started to look for it. Every nook and hole was carefully searched, for they all considered it a great novelty. The most ambitious searcher among them was Henry S. He looked here and there; one would have thought the marble belonged to him; yet it would not make its appearance. Finally one of the boys said:

"I am very sorry, Willie, but the marble seems to be lost."

Where do you think it was kept hidden all this time? In Henry's pocket! But O, the marble soon brought Henry into much distress. From that moment he could not enjoy himself any more. Whereever he went, and whatever he did he could feel the marble, and his heart beat loudly so much so that he thought others must hear it too. His conscience told him he had done wrong.

During the afternoon he did his work as usual, and tried to look pleasant, but his heart was heavy, and the possession of the marble only made him more miserable.

The next day he bought about twelve cents worth of marbles, and gave them to Willie, in the hopes of quieting his conscience. But it would not do. His conscience would not be silenced.

A few weeks after this, one Lord's day afternoon in the Sunday school, the teacher spoke about the sin of Achan. This man had stolen a Babylonish garment, two-hundred shekels of silver, and a wedge of gold. (Josh. 7:21). After school Henry went to Willie and said to him, placing the lost marble into his hand:

"This was my wedge of gold. Can you forgive me, Willie? I am so unhappy!"

You see every person has a conscience and it tells us when we do wrong.

I seem to hear someone remark: "What a fuss Henry made about one single marble."

But you must not forget, it was a sin in the sight of God to steal it; and God brings every sin into judgment. He punishes it. Therefore it was both good and necessary that Henry confess his sin, and ask Willie's forgiveness. We hope he also sought forgiveness of God.

The blood of the Lord Jesus Christ alone cleanseth us from all sin. Are your sins forgiven?

Messages of God’s Love 5/9/1926

Children, Obey Your Parents

“Come, Nelly, go to the Post-Office and get my papers," said Mr. Watkins to his fourteen year old daughter, who sat in the garden reading an interesting story book. Sulkily she replied;

"But I am reading, Papa, I'd rather not go now."

"Now come, be a good girl," her father pleaded.

"I thought you could wait till Uncle William goes; seeing he has to get his mail anyway;" she angrily proposed.

"Perhaps Uncle William doesn't have to go to the Post-Office today, and I need the papers;" said Mr. Watkins, with a touch of impatience in his voice.

"Then I suppose' I'll, have to go;" said Nelly, getting up and closing her book angrily. She went into the house to get her hat; a moment later, as she stepped out to go, she met the doctor who had just been to see her sick mother. He spoke kindly to her;

"Are you going to the Post-Office? Wait a minute, and you may ride there with me."

Partly ashamed, fearing the doctor had overheard her obstinate answers to her father, Nelly waited silently till all was ready.

Soon the girl was seated in the carriage next to the doctor. He had a wonderful ability to entertain the young folks, and was therefore well liked by both boys and girls. All considered it a great privilege to be permitted to ride with him. Today her old friend was quite serious. After a little silence, he said;

"Nelly, I would like to tell you a little incident: Once when I was a boy of thirteen," the doctor began, "I happened to come from school with other young boys of my age. A few weeks previous to this, we had already agreed among ourselves to practice swimming on the first warm clay in a pond near my father's house. This was just the right day for it —hot and sultry—so we hurried off to have our pleasure before supper. The school was about forty minutes walk from our house. When we arrived there, we met my father on the road that led to town. He had a package under his arm, and stopping me, said hesitatingly;

`James, do carry this package to the Post-Office for me.'

I am sure, I looked disappointed. My first impulse was to refuse; still, father had not been well for a whole week, and in case I did not go, he would be obliged to go; and he was such a dear, loving father. A certain something kept back my obstinate feelings.

`Certainly, father, I'll take it there;' then turning to my comrades who were also disappointed, I said,

`You need not wait for me, I will go swimming some other evening.' Father gave me the package.

`I thank you, James', he said, 'I am sorry you are being deprived of your pleasure on my account. I wanted to go to town myself, but I don't know why it is; I feel so weak today.' He went with me a short distance giving instructions concerning the package. When he turned to go home, he laid his hand on my arm, and said:

`I thank you, my son. You have always been an obedient child to me, James.' I ran to town and back again.

When I came in sight of the house, I noticed some neighbors standing at the door, also others going to and fro inside. One man approached me, and while the tears rolled down his cheeks, he said;

`Your father dropped dead, just as he reached the house, after leaving you.'

"Nelly, I am an old man now, but through all these years I have thanked God that I had not refused my father's last request, and that his last words to me were: 'You have always been an obedient child to me.' "

The old doctor wiped his eyes. Nelly was silently weeping, and in her heart she resolved never again to be unkind and disobedient.

With a glad heart she returned from the Post-Office, and when she saw her father sitting in front of the house, she gave a joyful shout. She ran to him, and throwing her arms around his neck, she said meekly:

"I am very, very sorry that I was naughty this evening. Please, forgive me, dear father."

"Certainly, will I do that," said her father kindly, and gave her a kiss.

Nelly has not forgotten the lesson she learned from the doctor. She wrote on a slip of paper: "Do not forget the doctor's incident."

Still the human heart is weak and evil. Nelly has had to face many serious troubles, and sometimes she resented them, but after she had found the Lord, she became a happy, obedient daughter, who was subject to the Lord Jesus, and sought with all her heart to please Him. and she gave her parents much joy.

"Children, obey your parents in all things: for this well pleasing unto the Lord." Col. 3:20.

Messages of God’s Love 5/9/1926

Eternity

ONE evening I was walking out, when a boy asked me to tell him the time.

I did so, and then put this question to him.

"What about eternity? are you prepared for that?"

His only answer was, "I have never thought anything about it."

Reader, have you?

What folly, what madness, to go on in this world, where death is raging on every hand, without thought as to the future.

"It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment." Heb. 0.27.

If you, my dear reader, are unsaved. let me earnestly ask you to stop and think of your awful position. You are on the broad road that leads to destruction, and, if you die in your sins, the lake of fire.will be your portion forever.

May God, in His mercy, press home on your conscience the solemn realities of eternity, and may you be led to see your lost condition, and flee for refuge to that living, blessed Saviour, at God's right hand, the One who died on the cross to put away the sins of all those who trust in Him.

"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.

Messages of God’s Love 5/9/1926

The Safe Path

HOW simple and interesting is our picture. The mules, God's dumb creatures, are dragging along the canal boat, and the little girl is leading them. There is a well-trodden path for them, called a tow-path, and if the little girl follows this path, all will come out safely, but if she should get out of the path, she and the mules would no doubt encounter danger, and the boat too would suffer loss.

Now, dear children, what can we learn from this? There is a way or path, God in His love has provided for little boys and girls, and if they walk in it, they will be perfectly safe.

God tells us in His word of two ways; the broad road, and the narrow way. All who have not come to the Lord Jesus, and owned Him as their Saviour, are on the broad road that leads to destruction. How sad to be found on this road.

Jesus says, "I am the way, the truth and the life," so He is the way to life everlasting.

If you are in His path, dear children, and older ones, too, you will "desire the sincere milk of the Word, that ye may grow thereby." Even the dumb animals need food, and God has made provision for them, so we who are the Lord's, need food for our souls,—The Word of God.

"THY WORD IS A LAMP UNTO MY FEET, AND A LIGHT UNTO MY PATH." Psa. 119:105.

"Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and Thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart." Jer. 15:16.

Messages of God’s Love 5/16/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 8

WHEN Samuel was old, he made his sons judges over Israel. Their names tell of their godly father: Joel (The Lord is God): and Abiah (The Lord is my Father), but it is not enough to have a godly father and mother; "Ye must be born again" is what God's Word says to one and all, for the natural birth does not make us God's children.

Though Samuel was an honored servant of God, his sons were very different; they turned aside from right ways in order to get money; they even took bribes from those who came to them to settle their disputes. This was very sad indeed, and should have brought the elders and all the people to humble themselves before God, and earnestly to pray for help from Him. But their thoughts were not upon God, rather about the nations around them;

"Behold, thou art old", they said, "and thy sons walk not in thy ways; now make us a king to judge us like all the nations."

God was the only king they needed; He was abundantly able and willing to lead and protect His people, but they liked the ways of the world.

The Scriptures of the New Testament have much to say about the world; in the 17th chapter of John it is mentioned again and again as that system of things from which the Christian is separated; verse 14 speaks of the children of God as not of the world, even as their Lord is not of it. The 1 Epistle of John too, (chapter 2, verses 15-17), warns the believer,

"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 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 for ever."

These are warnings indeed, and should be earnestly heeded!

To resume our chapter,—Samuel was displeased at the demand for a king, but in answer to prayer he learned that it was not so much the rejection of the prophet, as the rejection of their God, that He should not reign over them, and now He was going to let the people have their own way. They had always served other gods, forsaking the true God, since the day He had brought them up out of Egypt.

A forecast of the character of their king, when once they had one, was given (verses 11 to 18) by Samuel, but the Israelites would not attend to his words, saying,

"Nay, but we will have a king over us."

They were to get their wish, and Samuel will try no longer to dissuade this selfwilled, God-forsaking people, from their wrong course.

Messages of God’s Love 5/16/1926

All This I Did for Thee, What Hast Thou Done for Me?

I WONDER, dear friends, how many of our readers can say from the heart, "The Son of God, Who loved me, and gave Himself for me"? Gal. 2:20.

The Gospel, through these little papers, has reached many, many homes, leaving every reader without excuse, and God is graciously and patiently waiting, still inviting all who are yet unsaved to come to Him through Christ.

"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.

"Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God." Rom. 10:17.

"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.

Recently I heard a very touching address to young people, and this little incident, as near as I can remember was told:

A dear servant of the Lord was speaking to a company of people, bringing before them the wondrous love of the Lord Jesus Christ, Who left His Father's home, (when He was rich), coming down to this world, in obedience to God, His Father, to meet our need as poor lost sinners, subject to His will in all things,—thus He was led on to the cross.

An Indian chief sitting at the back of the room, was so touched with His love, that he arose and came where the preacher was standing, and said,

"Indian chief give his tomahawk to Jesus."

The preacher went on to tell more of the depth of His love, the agony He passed through in being nailed to the cross for those who were at a distance from Him. Again the man came forward with tears, and said,

"Indian chief give his blanket to Jesus."

The preaching continued, telling when our blessed Lord was bearing the sins of all who by faith believe on Him, God hid His face from Him, bringing forth that terrible cry, "My God, My God, why hast Thou forsaken Me?" Your sins and mine brought forth that cry. Indian chief again arose, and left the room for a few minutes. Coming back with his pony—with tears running down his cheeks, exclaimed,

"Indian chief give his pony to Jesus."

The dear servant of God, with much feeling, told of Jesus being placed in the tomb, and the third day He was raised by the power of God, and taken back to His Father's house, sitting now, at God's right hand, and from there is inviting all who are still unsaved to come to Him, and know God as their Father. At this, the poor Indian chief was overcome with such marvellous love, and for him; he arose again, and said,

"O, Indian chief give himself to Jesus."

Has Jesus' great love touched your hearts, dear ones? Have you heard Him say from the glory,

"All this I did for thee.

What hast thou done for Me?"

Messages of God’s Love 5/16/1926

Water! Water!

IT was a hot day in July. Our men were hastily making mounds of earth, in order to shield themselves from the enemies' bullets. Many dead and dying soldiers of the opposite side were lying all around, some even, quite close to our mounds. The wounded had been lying there for hours without any care or attention having been shown them. The sun rose higher and higher, and beat its hot rays unmercifully upon the poor wounded soldiers. Fifteen feet from us lay a deadly wounded officer of the enemies' side. As the heat continued to become more and more unbearable, so also did the pitiful cries of the dying officer, which grew louder and louder. "Water! water!" he imploringly cried.

Now there was one in our company, a courageous and dependable soldier, who having just recently entered the army, had not as yet seen much of the war's sorrow and woe. Tears came to his eyes as he heard the officer's pitiful wail, and finally he cried out:

"Boys, I can't stand this any longer! I'm going to give the poor fellow my canteen."

Instead of answering, one of our number took his cap, put it on a stick and held it up, above the mound. In the next instant it was shot through by several bullets. Only one step over, would surely mean death. But we could still hear this wounded one crying and calling over to us,

"Water! water! just one drop, just one drop."

Our tender-hearted comrade could not withstand these pleadings. Once, twice, three times he tried, in spite of our passionate remonstrance against the attempt to jump over the mound. At last he took a leap, and in an instant he found himself on the other side. Here he threw himself upon the ground and crawled slowly over toward the wounded man, but on account of the terrible firing, he could not get near him. Then he broke a branch off a bush, fastened his canteen on it, and in this way handed it to the officer. Such thankfulness as this wounded one manifested, I have never seen in all my life. He could hardly find words to express his gratitude for such love. Finally he pulled his gold watch out of his pocket, tied it to the branch and handed it to his benefactor, but he refused it.

With a cheerful smile at the thought of having accomplished his act of kindness, our soldier crawled back through a rain of bullets. With one bound he was over the mound and in safety. God had maniestly protected him. Quietly he accepted our congratulations. We told, him that this was the most noble deed that we had seen during the war. He answered:

"I have only carried out the words that my mother had so often read to me: "I was thirsty and ye gave Me drink." Matt. 25:35.

Many a rough soldier's heart was touched with the simple words of their brave comrade, and tears of one and another stole slyly down their cheeks; tears of which they need not to have been ashamed.

This little incident calls to my mind that precious scripture, "For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die."

"But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." Romans 5:7,8.

Our blessed Lord knew that the cross was before Him, nevertheless He could say, "I have set My face like a flint" (Isa. 50:7); and, "gave Himself for us that He might redeem, us from all iniquity." Titus 2:14.

God's love infinitely exceeds all human love. John 3:16, tells us, that, "God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

He came to die, that you might live, and offered Himself a willing sacrifice to God. "For this cause came I unto this hour." John 12:27.

"When blood from a victim must flow,

This Shepherd by pity was led

To stand between us and the foe,

And willingly died in our stead."

Messages of God’s Love 5/16/1926

Rest in The Lord

There is no rest in worldly life.

Nothing but grief and care:

And if you turn to legal works

You find no comfort there.

Religion, or a "name to live,"

From sin gives no relief;

Nor has the soul a resting place

Who boasts its unbelief.

In Christ alone repose is found,—

By Him true rest is given,

And in the Blood, for sinners shed,

A title clear to heaven.

Messages of God’s Love 5/16/1926

A Tranquil Hour

HOW often mother longs for a quiet hour in which she can accomplish a little sewing and mending for the children. Her many tasks during the day take up much of her time, and it is only when the little ones are tucked snugly in bed, and the home quiet, that she can remain at her work. Her loving hands are plying the needle, making garments or patching for the wee kiddies, and many times she is tried and weary too, but never forgetful of the dear children's needs.

How thankful to God, boys and girls should be for such a mother, and we trust that children may never forget what mother has sacrificed for them, her many steps, her much love, and those loving hands that have so often ministered to their needs. As you grow up into girlhood and boyhood, may it be your joy to respond in every way to her love.

Now, dear children, we have been bearing a little of "mother" love, but there is One whose love is greater than a mother's. No mother would be willing to give up her only son.

"But God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that who-soever believeth in Him, should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:10.

Does not God's love to you touch your hearts, dear ones? And as you respond to mother's love, which is only for time, how much more should you respond to God's love, who has made provision for you for time and eternity.

God is not willing that you should perish, but wants you this very moment to believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and be saved. Jesus said,

"I CAME NOT TO CALL THE RIGHTEOUS, BUT SINNERS TO REPENTANCE." Luke 5:32.

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

May the word of God come home to you with such power, that you may cry out,

O 'twas love, 'twas wondrous love,

The love of God to me;

It brought my Saviour from above

To die on Calvary!

We have no other argument,

We need no other plea;

It is enough that Jesus died,

And that He died for me!

Messages of God’s Love 5/23/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 9

A MIGHTY man named Kish (which means "power"), the son of Abiel, whose name means "father of might", had a son, Saul, a choice young man and a goodly. There was not among the children of Israel a goodlier person than he (by this we understand, goodly in appearance); from his shoulders and upward he was taller than any one. As far as looks went and to the natural eye, Saul was the best there was; this was the man God had chosen for the king that the people wanted. We shall find that he proved but a poor substitute for God, whom the people had now rejected as their King.

And now through a circumstance in which we might have thought God had no part, Saul and Samuel are brought together. Just so it is often in the history of God's people; by and by they will see (where not always do they see here) that God was in all their circumstances, working out His own gracious purposes of blessing. Saul, as he wearily pursued the missing animals, knew nothing of what God had purposed for him. But Samuel, the day before Saul came, had been told by God that tomorrow He would send him a man out of the tribe of Benjamin who should be anointed captain over His people Israel.

The oppression of the Philistines was still felt, though these enemies within the borders of Israel were humbled (chapter 7 verse 13) for the "hill of God" was the location of a Philistine garrison (chapter 10, verse 5). God had looked upon His people because their cry was gone up to Him. How surpassing the mercy of God, and His deep interest in those who belong to Him! The children of Israel had rebelled against Him all through their history; their journey through the desert from the shores of the Red Sea; and the years of their stay in the promised land were marked with many proofs that this people—redeemed from Egypt's slavery and brought into blessing had but little regard for God. But He had not given them up; He still followed them with pitying love.

Let us notice in verses 15 and 17 that the man who walks with God, learns the mind of God—Samuel was in himself a faithful servant of God, and we saw him acting for his divine Master in the 8th chapter. Now afresh directed by God, Samuel speaks to the future king, and detains him until the following day.

May this example be used of God to stir the hearts and consciences of those who are His, to seek a walk of closer communion with Himself!

Messages of God’s Love 5/23/1926

When We Were Yet Without Strength

IT was a warm summer evening and the grounds of this favorite watering place were full of visitors, while numerous pleasure boats filled with gay occupants, plied the bay. It was a peaceful scene, and none save those who know the dangers of the deep, could have thought that the serenity of that calm evening would be suddenly broken by a disaster and struggle for life.

A small boat, in which were four men, was making its way to the shore and had almost reached it, when one of its occupants, standing up to wave his cap to someone he recognized on the pier, suddenly over-balanced and fell into the deep water. Neither he, nor the other occupants could swim, and the sudden mishap to their companion so unnerved them, that they were unable to render him any assistance.

The cry of distress that arose from the scene of the accident was heard on the grounds. Excitement prevailed, but nobody was evidently either able or willing to "rescue the perishing" youth who was struggling in the water before their eyes.

At this time a well-known swimmer, who was on a holiday, had, from a quiet corner, seen the disaster, and throwing off his boots and outer garments, plunged into the water to save the drowning man. As he did so there were cheers from the crowd, but imagine their surprise, when the expert swimmer was opposite and close to the struggling man, that instead of immediately seizing him as they had expected, he quietly swam round about for several minutes, until the man's struggles had almost ceased, and exhausted and helpless, the man was ready to sink. Just then the swimmer struck up to the spot, grasped him with a strong arm, and brought him to shore.

How thankful he would be, dear friends, to the one who saved him from death!

My dear ones, the drowning man is like the sinner, fallen and "ready to perish" (Dent. 26:5), and the Lord Jesus Christ, Who is "mighty to save" (Isa. 63:1), has come forth "to seek and to save" the lost (Luke 19:10).

Remember, too, it was when the drowning man was "without strength," that his friend could reach forth and take him to shore. So with you and me,

"When we were vet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly." Rom. 5:6.

When we cease our struggling, cease trying to help ourselves, owning that we are "without strength," then will we turn unto the Lord Jesus Christ, who is ready, and willing to save.

"Thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon Thee." Psa. 86:5.

Weary, working, burdened one,

Wherefore toil you so?

Cease your doing; all was done

Long, long ago.

Till to Jesus' work you cling,

By a simple faith,

"Doing" is a deadly thing

"Doing" ends in death.

Messages of God’s Love 5/23/1926

Little Phil and the Gipsy

LITTLE Phil is one of the scholars of a small Sunday School. He is five years of age, and, like many other little folks, he loves to sing of the Lord Jesus Christ. Often has it cheered the hearts of the teachers to hear him sing,

"Jesus, high in glory,

Lend a listening ear;

While we bow before

Thee, Children's praises hear."

Phil is a somewhat bold little fellow, as the following incident will show. Taken by his parents into the country for a holiday, Phil took walks abroad, reveling in the beauties of nature and one clay while wandering about. he came upon an encampment of gipsies. Drawing near, Master Phil was not long in entering into conversation with some of the men of the camp. Asked by one of the men what he knew, he began,

"The Lord is my Shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures. He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul. He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies. Thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness, and mercy shall follow me all the clays of my life. and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever" Psa. 23.

"There, what dyer think of that?" said the gipsy to one of the others, and, turning to Phil, he said, "God bless thee, my boy."

Whether it awakened thoughts of his younger days in the mind of the gipsy, when possibly at a God-fearing mother's knee he had repeated the children's petition,

"Jesus, tender Shepherd, hear me,

Bless Thy little lamb tonight;

Through the darkness, be Thou near me,

Keep me safe till morning light,"

1 cannot say, but would ask our clear young readers if they know the blessed Lord of whom this precious psalm speaks? The Shepherd is none other than the Lord Jesus, Who gave His life for the sheep (John 10:11), Who, in His great love to the foolish sheep, descended from highest heights of glory down to the sorrows and death of Calvary, that we, believing in Him, might never perish, but have everlasting life ( John 3:16).

O, young readers, believe this message; receive it into your hearts, and your souls shall be filled with joy unspeakable, and full of glory. Not only will you be able to say, "Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the clays of my life," but also, "One thing have I desired to
behold the beauty of the Lord" (Psalm 27:4). May this be the happy portion of every girl and boy that reads "Messages of Love."

"Everlasting glory unto Jesus be!

Sing aloud the story of His victory!

How Ile left the splendor of His home on high;

Came in love so tender on the cross to die."

Messages of God’s Love 5/23/1926

Hark! the Voice of Jesus Calling

Hark! the voice of Jesus calling—

"Come, ye children, come to Me;

I have rest and peace to offer,

Rest, dear children, now for thee.”

Yes; though high in heavenly glory.

Still the Saviour calls to thee;

Faith can hear His gracious accents

"Come, clear children, come to Me."

Soon that voice will cease its calling.

Now it speaks and speaks to thee:

Children, heed the gracious message—

To the blood for refuge flee:

Life is found alone in Jesus,

Only there `tis offered thee—

Offered without price or money

`Hs the gift of God sent free.

Messages of God’s Love 5/23/1926

The Drive

AS you look at this little pony and cart, I expect 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.

How 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.

Messages of God’s Love 5/30/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 10

SAMUEL privately anointed Saul to be king and sent him on his way home. As he went he would find two men by Rachel's sepulchre, that reminder of him who was the father of Saul's tribe, son of his mother's sorrow, yet named son of his father's right hand (Genesis 35:18).

In the light the New Testament affords, we can see that Benjamin was a type of Christ, the One of Israel's sorrow and setting aside, yet the Man at God's right hand.

It is properly the oak of Tabor, rather than the plain of that name, in verse 3. At this point Saul was to meet three men going up to God, to Bethel; faith was still in exercise in Israel and there were some, though few who remembered the God of Bethel, Him who had said to Jacob when in trouble that He would not leave him. The eternal God was for Jacob, and brought him back in peace. (Genesis 28:15; 31:13 and 35:7). These who sought God's presence now, gave food to the future king.

But the hill of God was possessed by the enemies of His people—a third sign or circumstance which should have spoken to the heart of one who had God's glory and His people's blessing before him. Here, at the public seat of God's strength, the power of the enemy is found,—true picture of the state of Israel at this time.

At this place, then, the Spirit of God came on Saul. and he was turned into another man: God here resumes the course of His relations with Israel, though Samuel was still the only one whom God recognized as the link between Himself and the people. It is when Saul has had to do with Samuel that he is another man; blessing was connected with the prophet.

The coming of the Holy Spirit upon Saul was not the indwelling, nor, we may judge, producing the new birth, both of which are so plainly told us in the New Testament. Scripture is silent as to any clear testimony that Saul was a converted man, and some of his acts lead to the conclusion that he could not have been. What is set forth in verses 6 and 9 to 13 is evidently the fitting of Saul to be an office bearer among the people of God.

Gilgal (verse 8) was another reminder, if Saul had faith to take it in, of an important stage in Israel's history. There the "reproach of Egypt" was "rolled away" ( Joshua 5:9); nature and all its connections were judged, in figure, and Israel, from the camp at Gilgal, was to enter upon the conquest and possession of the portion God had provided, in the strength of His arm. Alas, it had not been so, but the failure should have, to faith, only served to emphasize the character of Gilgal as God had indicated it.

Though God so provided for the future king as verses 6 to 13 have shown us, Saul's course shows him a self-seeking, self-important man. This will be more evident as we go on through his later history.

Samuel called the people together at Mizpeh, there delivering a solemn message from God before the formal choice of a king took place. God gave them their wish; He had not forsaken them, and He had, as we have before noticed, chosen for their king one of the best, in nature's reckoning, that the nation afforded. If "the flesh" as the 8th chapter of Romans terms the natural man, could have served here, nothing was lacking.

God having set up a king, those who will not acknowledge him are "children of Belial."

Messages of God’s Love 5/30/1926

Call Them In

MAGGIE D—was a simple minded country girl until enticed away to a seaport town by other young women who had gone there from the country. Higher wages and greater privileges were the great attraction. These things appealed to Maggie; then her country ways and thoughts were soon given up, and, sad to say, even her links with home, and those who loved her dearly. It was not long before she was lost sight of altogether. Her father and mother went to an early grave through their grief.

Many years after, a poorly dressed woman was noticed coming wearily into the village where Maggie's home had been, halting now and again in her weakness and pain. She seemed no stranger by the way she took the various turnings, but it was not until she reached the old chapel that she stopped. It was to listen; for the small company inside were singing, and it was the words that arrested her attention:

"Call them in"—the poor, the wretched,

Sin stained wanderers from the fold;

Peace and pardon freely offer;

Can you weigh their worth with gold?

"Call them in"—the weak, the weary,

Laden with the doom of sin;

Bid them come and rest in Jesus;

He is waiting—"Call them in."

She draws nearer and leans upon the door post, much moved. While another stanza is being sung, she sinks down upon the steps and listens again.

"Call them in"—the broken-hearted,

Cowering 'neath the brand of shame;

Speak love's message, low and tender;

"Twas for sinners Jesus came."

See! the shadows lengthen round us;

Soon the clay-dawn will begin;

Can you leave them lost and lonely?

Christ is coming—"Call them in."

The woman groaned as the tears began to flow down her cheeks, but she cannot move. Again she listens; the preacher is praying;

"Lord! we thank Thee for the privilege Thou givest Thy servants to call in any who feel the pressure of sin. O, call them to come into Thine arms of love stretched out to welcome all that will come to Thee. Mary with the devils came to Thee; the woman who was a sinner of the City came to Thee. Lord, Thou knowest how many in this company have come to Thee. Now, Lord, if there are any who hear my voice who have not yet come to Thee, draw them by the cords of Thy great love. We ask in Thy name."

Maggie (for Maggie it was) could bear no more. She rose up, and trembling from head to foot, entered the chapel and cried,

"Is it true what you were singing, and praying about? If it is, pray for me; it is just what I want." The preacher looked up, and said without hesitation:

"It is true! It is true! Jesus will save you." The service was turned into a prayer meeting, and then into a praise meeting.

The Saviour received more than one who turned to Him at that time, and Maggie was among them. She soon made herself known to the people—a sad, sad story. Alas, with the pleasures of sin leading to the downward way, she had proved the truth of the word: "The way of transgressors is hard."

She related how the doctor had told her she was dying, and would not live more than a month,

"A great desire came over me to see my home town once more before I died," she said, "and by the help of others I came; and O, thank God for letting me come, for I have found the Saviour."

She lived some weeks after this, and gave ample evidence of a real work of God in her soul.

Reader, in telling this incident, I desire to show you the grace and abounding mercy that is in the heart of God to even the vilest sinner. Do you know that grace?

O, do not let the Word depart,

And close thine eves against the light!

Poor sinner, harden not thy heart;

Thou wouldst be saved,—why not tonight?

To-morrow's sun may never rise

To bless thy long deluded sight;

This is the time—O, then, be wise!

Thou wouldst be saved,—why not tonight?

Messages of God’s Love 5/30/1926

Redeemed

A SUNBURNED gentleman, apparently a traveler, was one day walking along the streets of a large city when he passed a store where there were a number of caged birds for sale. These seemed to interest the stranger very much, and he thought it was a pity that they should thus be kept in captivity. He went into the store and asked the price and bought all of them, and then opened the cage and set them free.

What a kind heart the man must have had to do this, and if the birds had been intelligent, they must have been deeply grateful to the one who had purchased them to give them their liberty.

How this incident reminds us of another and greater Deliverer, the Lord Jesus Christ, who came from His distant home above for the express purpose of paying the ransom price for human victims whose bondage was much more serious than that of the birds. What a price He had to pay! This redemption price was not paid in gold or lands, or cattle upon a thousand hills, but in blood. Yes, He gave Himself.

The birds did not hesitate to take advantage of the kindness of their liberator, but soared away to a free life.

We hope that each one of our readers will profit by the wonderful work on Calvary's cross. The price of your redemption has been paid and the way to reap the benefit of it is, by simple faith in the One who paid it.

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

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

To those who have believed on the Lord Jesus to the salvation of their souls, there is something further to be learned from our little illustration; When the birds rose from the hand of their liberator, it was to a new and higher life. Just so it should be with one who is the Lord's. He now has a new nature within him, and it should be his earnest desire to show out this new life of the Spirit so that he will be pleasing to the One who has done so much for him. Since he has been delivered from the bondage of sin, he should live to serve the Deliverer.

"Ye are not your own, for ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body, and your spirit, which are God's." 1 Cor. 6:19, 20.

Messages of God’s Love 5/30/1926

Bible Questions for June

Answers to Bible Questions for April

"Hearing of thy love," etc. Philemon 5.

"Not forsaking the," etc. Hebrews 10:25.

"Who being the," etc. Hebrews 1:3.

"Be ye also patient," etc. James 5:8.

"Let us therefore," etc. Hebrews 4:16.

"But let him ask in," etc. James 1:6.

"And almost all things," etc. Hebrews 9:22.

Bible Questions for June

The Answers are to be found in Revelation

Write in full the verse containing the words, "All kindreds of the earth."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "I come as a thief."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Hold that fast."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "My reward is with Me."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Give glory to Him."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Even so, come. '

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Till I come."

Messages of God’s Love 6/6/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 11

Nahash the Ammonite came against Jabesh with an army, and proposed to put out the right eyes of the inhabitants. The news was carried to Saul, who until now had not been treated as king, and the Spirit of God again came on him. In great anger because of this attack upon the nation, Saul killed a yoke of oxen, hewing them in pieces and sending them by messengers throughout the land, saying,

"Whosoever cometh not forth after Saul and after Samuel, so shall it be done unto his oxen." The fear of God falling on the people, they came out as one man, 330,000 strong.

The next day the hosts of Israel were victorious over the Ammonites, so completely defeating them that two of them were not left together. This evidenced God's presence, and His support of the king. So far all was favorable; the enemy within, the Philistines, had been allowed to remain undisturbed, but the Ammonite attack from without was met with energy supplied by the Spirit of God.

It is much easier to meet an attack from outside, than to expel the enemy within. The Philistines were a snare to Israel, manifesting the power of Satan in the very midst of Israel. Was the king indifferent to this? As we noticed in chapter 10, the "hill of God", though a company of the prophets was met there, was in the hands of a garrison of the Philistines. Here was a real test of faith, and it is here that Saul fails. We shall observe this in the thirteenth and fourteenth chapters.

Saul is to be commended for his attitude toward the "men of Belial" who had despised him; none should be put to death, for "today" he said, "the Lord hath wrought salvation in Israel." This was both prudent and generous toward the people, and a right acknowledgment of God's power in the deliverance from the Ammonites.

Messages of God’s Love 6/6/1926

The Saviour's Joy

WHAT joy has the Good Shepherd, who gave His life for the sheep, in going after, finding, and bringing home to God poor lost souls! The sheep which He lays on His shoulders, or carries in His bosom, may have little joy in what His love is doing for it. Nay, in its folly it may even struggle to get away from its safe and happy resting-place. And even if it has joy, what is it but as that of the shallow brooklet to the deep well-spring of the joy of His heart? His is so great, so overflowing, that He asks and looks for fellowship in His joy.

"Rejoice with Me; for I have found My sheep which was lost."

And all that have one mind with Him in this. His joy "over one sinner that repenteth," cannot but respond to the joy of His heart, and rejoice with Him.

Do we not see in the woman of Samaria a delightful instance of this Great and Good Shepherd thus going after, finding, carrying home, and rejoicing over the one sheep that was lost? Truly, she was at the well. But who had drawn her there? Even He who met her there, and revealed Himself to her.

"Lord! 'twas Thy pow'r unseen that drew

The stray one to that place,

In solitude to learn from Thee

The secrets of Thy grace."

And mark! His deep joy and refreshment on that ever memorable occasion, in His expression to His disciples: "My meat is to do the will of Him that sent Me, and to finish His work" John 4:34, and in John 6:39 and 40, we see what this will is.

"This is the Father's will that hath sent Me, that of all which He bath given Me, I should lose nothing, but should raise it up again at the last day. And this is the will of Him that sent Me, that every one which seeth the Son, and believeth on Him, may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day."

Messages of God’s Love 6/6/1926

Who Will Hold up His Hand?

ONE day at noon the boys of a certain school were amusing themselves in ball playing when one of them sent a ball through one of the windows of the school-house. The teacher, on returning from dinner, saw at once what had happened, and, after school was called, he drew the children's attention to the broken window, and said, "Will the boy who broke the window please hold up his hand?" They hardly expected such a question, and not a hand moved.

Again the question was asked, but no hand stirred. Firmly and lovingly the teacher repeated the question for the third time, "Will the boy who broke the window please hold up his hand?" Not far from the teacher's desk stood a small boy whose hand began slowly to move. It was a hard struggle for the little fellow, but at length up went the hand, thus owning before all his school-mates that he had broken the window.

And now, dear children, do you suppose the teacher could punish that boy? True, he had done wrong in breaking the window, but he was honest and confessed it. The .window had to be repaired, and it cost something to do it; but the little boy was forgiven and the teacher ever afterwards loved him for his uprightness.

My dear readers, old and young, Is not this just what God expects of you? You have sinned, broken God's law, come short of His glory, and are guilty. Listen to this from the Book of Job, "He [that is, God] looketh upon men, and if any say I have sinned . . . He will deliver his soul from going into the pit . . ." God is looking to see who will confess their sin to Him. He has given Jesus to die for us on the cross, such was His love. Now, He is looking to see who will confess their sin and believe in His dear Son.

Again, just as the teacher's heart was glad when the little boy held up his hand, so God is glad when any one, young or old, confesses to Him that he has sinned.

When the poor prodigal came back and said, "Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son," immediately there was joy in the father's heart, and in the father's house.

"There is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth." Luke 15:10.

Have you, dear reader, held up your hand to God? Have you told all out to Him? If not, we entreat you not to put it off. Do so this very hour. He will save you and cause your heart to rejoice in a present and an eternal forgiveness, through the precious blood of Jesus Christ, His Son.

Messages of God’s Love 6/6/1926

The Resting place

HERE are two fine deer, and their two pretty baby deer. They have such a splendid resting place under this beautiful big tree with its shading

branches.

They feel safe in this nice secluded spot, and they are pretty safe. But still some hunter might come along and discover them. They would be safe no longer.

Dear reader, are you safe? Perhaps you have a very comfortable and beautiful home, well guarded against storms, fire, thieves, and other dangers. You may think you have a resting place that is safe from every harm.

Yet at any moment, and in a way you least expect, trouble may come. Are you ready to have your resting place—perhaps your very life—taken from you in a moment?

Not unless your soul has found a resting place. If you have learned to know and love the One who said,

"COME UNTO ME, ALL YE THAT LABOR AND ARE HEAVY LADEN, AND I WILL GIVE YOU REST," (Matt. 11:28),
you have indeed found a resting place secure from every danger. With your soul resting there, you need have no fear about earthly resting places.

O do not be content with anything less than the safety which Christ alone can give—the rest that nothing can disturb.

Messages of God’s Love 6/6/1926

Christ is Coming

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."

Then be ready, O be ready;

Heed the cry while yet you may;

With lamps trimmed and burning brightly,

Wait that coming, blessed day.

Messages of God’s Love 6/6/1926

The Two Ways

HOW important it is to get on the right road. Scripture speaks of many ways. God says,

"There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death." Prov. 16:25.

How many dear ones are taking their own way, and going down to destruction.

Christ says, "I am the way, the truth, and the life." You will never reach heaven excepting through the Lord Jesus Christ. He came to seek and to save the lost. Do you not long, dear boys and girls, to be among His own dear children? He says of such, "Ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus." Gal. 3:26.

A short time ago, a Christian gentleman, accompanied by a friend, was driving home from a meeting. After they had driven some little distance, they overtook a young boy, walking slowly, and with an air of utter weariness and dejection. The gentleman pulled up his horse, and asked,

"Where are you going?"

"I am on my way home, sir."

"Have you far to go?"

"No, sir, just to B."

"Well, it is not worth while giving you a lift for that short distance," to which the boy replied,

"O, no, thank you, sir, I'll easily walk," and so the gentleman drove on. But he was impelled, surely by the Lord, to stop after he had gone on some distance, and looking round he found the boy running close behind. Waiting until he came along side, and feeling sure he was dejected and sorrowful because he was not sure of heaven being his Home, the gentleman said,

"Are you really and truly on your way Home?"

"No, sir, I am not," was the honest confession, and then as he was asked to get in with them, he added in a tone of anguish,

"I must get saved. My sister was saved last night; my brother the night before, and I am still on the broad road."

"Well," said the gentleman, "if you are willing to be saved, Christ is far more willing to save you. You have but to come to Him, just as you are."

Without another word, the boy fell on his knees, and prayed,

"Lord Jesus, take me as I am. I am unworthy, but Jesus died,—Jesus died."

The plea was sufficient, the prayer was heard, and answered. After a few minutes silence, he said to the two Christians,

"I am saved, won't you praise the Lord with me?" and they did praise the Lord. They knelt by the way-side and thanked Him for His mercy and grace in bringing this dear one upon the "narrow way which leadeth unto life." After they had exchanged farewell, the boy said,

"I am on my way Home now. I'll go praising Him."

Reader, remember there are two ways one to the Home above; the other where there is weeping and wailing. On which are you going? Jesus died for you. We trust you are on the way to the glory to he with the Lord Jesus Christ for eternity. If so, may your prayer to Him be,

"LEAD ME IN THY TRUTH, AND TEACH ME: FOR THOU ART THE GOD OF MY SALVATION." Psa. 25:5.

Messages of God’s Love 6/13/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 12

SAMUEL was now giving up the leadership of God's people Israel on account of their now having the king they had asked for. He had not robbed anyone, nor had he been dishonest in his dealings with them; this they acknowledged. God had delivered the people out of Egypt, and brought them into Canaan, but when they forgot Him, He sent enemies who humbled them; Sisera, the Philistines and the Moabites. These were the nearby enemies; there were other enemies not mentioned from more distant lands. Then the people cried unto God and said,

"We have sinned, because we have forsaken the Lord, . . but deliver us out of the hand of our enemies, and we will serve Thee." God answered them by raising up deliverers who were used in setting the people free again.

Now, with the approach of a new enemy, Nahash the Ammonite, they had demanded a king, and their demand had been granted, even though Samuel had told them, "The Lord your God was your King."

If God were feared, served, obeyed and not rebelled against, the people should still be under His blessing and guidance; but if they were rebellious, His hand would be against them, as it was against their fathers. God gave a sign: He sent thunder and rain during wheat harvest (verse 18), which confirmed Samuel's words, and all the people greatly feared the Lord and Samuel.

God would not give them up, and Samuel would not cease to pray for them. This was grace and love on God's part to a rebellious and self-willed people. Samuel shone here in self-forgetfulness; he was rejected as Israel's leader but he manifested a loving interest in the people of God—an example to all who care for the children of God in our own day. He said to them "Only fear the Lord, and serve Him in truth with all your heart: for consider how great things He bath done for you" (verse 24).

There is a marked similarity between Samuel's words in this chapter, and the apostle Paul's farewell to the Ephesian Christians in Acts 20:17-35. Both of these men had seen the failure, humanly speaking, of that which God had established; each had been an example of godliness before the people, and both of them warned of the dangers that lay before them. Would that these warnings were more really heeded!

"The end of all things is at hand; be ye therefore sober and watch unto prayer. And above all things have fervent charity (love) among yourselves." 1 Peter 4:7.

Messages of God’s Love 6/13/1926

I'll Show You a Trick

A CHRISTIAN once visited a cottage in which a man who was the terror of the neighborhood resided. "I suppose, mister," said the man with a sneer," you have come to try to convert me?"

"I see," said the missionary, "you know who I am, and have some idea of the purpose of my visit."

"Well, I'll show you a trick." Turning to his boy, he said,

"Go upstairs, and bring down those new ropes." The boy obeyed. Meanwhile the missionary wondered what his trick could be. Did he mean violence? Soon the boy came back, when his father placed him in a chair. Using the ropes, he tied his legs to the legs of the chair, his arms and body to the back, and after crossing and re-crossing the ropes he tied the ends in a knot. Turning to the missionary, he said,

"Now, mister, can that child get away?"

"No," he replied, "not by himself."

"Well," said he, "that is just how I am, bound by my sins; they are all around me in every way, and I can't get away from them; but look here," and he took a knife from his pocket with which he cut the ropes.

"There, the child is free now, isn't he?" "Yes," said the missionary, "he's free now."

"But you can't set me free, so it’s no use wasting words on me. I know all you can say, but you can't cut the bonds of sin that bind me, like I cut the ropes."

"True," said the missionary; "but now, suppose the boy had the power, and would not let you cut the ropes, but pushed away your hand. If he remained bound, who would be to blame?"

"Why, the boy, to be sure," said the father.

"Well, I can't cut your ropes, but Christ can. He came 'to preach deliverance to the captives to set at liberty them that are bound' (Luke 4:18). He can cut you loose from your sins, give you the victory over them, and enable you to walk in newness of life. But if you won't listen to Him, or accept Him as your Deliverer, who is to blame?"

The listener had never thought of it in this way before, and God blessed these few words to the saving of his soul. The fetters by which he had been held so long, and which he thought could never be broken, were snapped asunder; his affections turned into a new channel, besetting sins trampled under foot.

That which laws, police, magistrates, jails, kind or harsh treatment could never accomplish, was effected by the Lord Jesus Christ.

"Old things are passed away; behold all things are became new." 2 Cor. 5:17.

Messages of God’s Love 6/13/1926

A Remarkable Case of Conversion

A FISHERMAN'S daughter who could neither read nor write, became deeply concerned about her soul's salvation one day, while she was washing some clothes. She took up a Bible, but she could not read it; this increased her distress, and the thought flashed across her mind,

"I may be dead and in hell before my mother returns, I must seek salvation at once." Opening the Bible, she put her finger on a verse, and watched at the window till someone would pass who might read it to her.

"Please read this to me," she said to a girl who passed the door, and the astonished girl took the open Bible, and read,

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

"That'll do" said the girl; "thank you," and closed the door. The simple message, once spoken by the Son of God to weary sinners, such as she then was, came as balm to her troubled soul. She came to Jesus and her soul was at rest, and that single promise was her soul's resting-place.

If you are a sinner, the Lord Jesus is the sinner's Saviour, and the only condition He makes, is, that you come to Him as you are, and cast yourself wholly on Him for a present salvation.

"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 6/13/1926

Jesus and the Children

I want to have the children read

A story sweet and true,

Which happened many years ago—

About the children, too.

Now let us turn to Mark, and read;

Begin at chapter ten,

And let us all give earnest heed,

To what was uttered then.

At verse thirteen we will-begin,

To end of sixteen go,

And learn the wondrous love of Him

Who stooped in grace so low.

You see how Jesus was displeased,

For His disciples sought

To turn away the people all,

Who little children brought.

"Let little children come to Me,"

Such were His words of love,

"And little ones like these shall share

My heavenly home above."

He gently took them in His arms,

And blessed them in His love,

And soon He'll come from heaven again,

And bear them up above.

And now, this same dear, loving Lord,

Has gone to God on high,

And He would have you with Him there,

To share eternal joy.

Dear little ones, remember then

He's just the same today,

As when He blessed those children small,

While on His pilgrim way.

His loving arms are just as strong,—

His love is just as true,—

Will you not fully trust Him, now?

And He will bless you, too.

Messages of God’s Love 6/13/1926

The Song of the Sparrow

I'm only a little sparrow,

A bird of low degree;

My life is of little value,

But there's One who cares for me.

I have neither barn nor store-house

And I neither sow nor reap;

God gives me a sparrow's portion,

But never a seed to keep.

If my meal is sometimes scanty,

Close picking makes it sweet;

I've always enough to feed me,

And life is more than meat.

I know there are many sparrows—

All over the world we're found,

But the Father in heaven knoweth,

When one of us falls to the ground.

Though small, we're never forgotten;

Though weak, we're never afraid;

The Father in heaven keepeth

The life of the creatures He made.

And I fold my wings at twilight,

Wherever I happen to be,

The Father in heaven watcheth,

And no harm can come to me

I'm only a little sparrow,

A bird of low degree;

But I know my Father loves me,—

Dost thou know His love for thee?

"Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before God? Fear ye not therefore; ye are of more value than many sparrows." Luke 12:6,7.

"CASTING ALL YOUR CARE UPON HIM; FOR HE CARETH FOR YOU." I Peter 5:7

Messages of God’s Love 6/20/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 13

We have noticed how God established Saul in the kingdom, and gave him victory over the first enemy who appeared (Chapter 11). Now the king is to be put to the test.

After reigning two years he chose three thousand men to form, a standing army; there had been no need of such thing before in Israel; no army was needed while God was their only resource. Two thousand were with Saul in Michmash and in Mount Bethel; and the others were with Jonathan in Gibeah, or Geha, as it is called in verse 3. Jonathan was a man of faith, very unlike his father, and he attacked the Philistine garrison in the place where he was. Saul thereupon "blew the trumpet" throughout all the land, evidently taking credit for the attack himself (verse 4), though he and his two thousand were in another place.

Further, Saul's boastful proclamation was "Let the Hebrews hear!" To the nations around them, this people were indeed "the Hebrews," but to one of themselves who knew God they should have been called "the children of Israel," or "the people of God."

It was certain that Jonathan's attack on the enemy would arouse them to counterattack, and the people were therefore called together after Saul to Gilgal,—the place where the camp of Israel had been in Joshua's day. As to this place, Samuel had given Saul directions in chapter 10:8. The Philistines presently gathered in Michmash, where Saul had established himself as king, with a great company, and when the men of Israel saw how serious was their own situation, the people hid in caves, in thickets, in rocks, in high places, and in pits, and some went over the Jordan, to the land Gad and Gilead. Those who clung to Saul in Gilgal did so trembling; evidently the much wished for king was not any more worthy of confidence than themselves. No human remedy is equal to our God.

The king waited seven days, according to Samuel's word, but as the prophet did not arrive, and more of the people were leaving him, Saul offered a burnt offering and evidently intended to offer a peace offering. This was religion, but it was not obedience; religion in itself is of no value, and disobedience, especially in one to whom responsibility has been committed, is most serious, as Saul presently learned to his sorrow, and was to have again impressed on him (see chapter 15:22, 23).

It will be seen that there is no mention of Saul's having, in his extremity, prayed to God for direction or help. This man of religion and pride, without the true knowledge of God, stands in the divine record for an example and a warning to those who might be tempted,—and there are many such today,—to approach God with forms and ceremonies and work which outwardly recognize Him, but which are the fruit of their own minds. There is only one true way of approach to God,— obedience to His Word; and faith is the link which. He provides.

Samuel came, and reproved Saul because of His disobedience, told him that another would succeed him,—a man after God's own heart to be captain over His people. The prophet then went from Gilgal to Gibeah, the scene of Jonathan's attack on the Philistines, and after him went Saul and the remnant of his army, six hundred men.

Surely Israel's case was a pitiful one; the Philistines sent out three bands to rob the country, and Saul and his followers were utterly helpless without weapons. Now the standing camp of the enemy came towards Israel's camp, confident no doubt, of crushing the feeble Hebrews. The next chapter will show how simple, childlike faith was rewarded.

Messages of God’s Love 6/20/1926

Lost Within Sight of Home

A FEW years ago, a young fisherman married a girl of his native place, and of his own station in life.

They were both followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the union was a happy one. The fishing season came around, and John our fisherman, with his father, sailed for the fishing ground, and from time to time the young wife heard from her husband of their good success; thus many weeks wore away.

At length the season was closed, and the young wife heard that the boat was able to return, and that she might expect the absent one home on a certain day.

The morning of the expected day rose bright and calm, and as the time wore on, the young wife ascended the steep and high rocks over-looking the bay, and eagerly scanned the water for a sight of her husband's sail.

By and by she saw a speck, and as it came nearer and nearer she could make it out to be her husband's boat. The little craft hastened on; she waved, thinking they would see and respond.

Just at this instant a sudden squall blew up. It struck the boat, and caught the sail, swinging it round with terrific force. A heavy wave struck John and swept him over board. Without a moment's delay the boat was put back to the spot where the accident occurred, but not a trace of John could be seen. His poor wife was filled with grief at the loss of her dear husband, and she shed many tears, but was comforted and sustained, knowing he was at rest with the Lord.

Had it been you, dear one, where would you have been for eternity?

This dear one went down within sight of wife and home. The question of salvation was eternally settled for him, and we know he is with Christ, which is far better. But we tremble for the many who are perishing eternally every year,—perishing within sound of salvation,—perishing with the Word of life in their hands, and perishing willfully because of unbelief.

Thousands died in sight of the ark, though all had been warned and entreated. Thousands perished in the wilderness,—perished because of unbelief. Stop: dear reader, and answer the question,

Where will you spend eternity? Make sure of salvation.

"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.

Messages of God’s Love 6/20/1926

Waiting for the Answer

A MOTHER lay, to all human appearance, in a dying state. The doctor had retired to an adjoining room, with an attendant, and uttered these words,

"I have done all I can now."

The eldest child (quite young) was standing near, and heard the terrible remark; bursting into tears, she said,

"Doctor, you say you have done all you can—not all! you can join me in asking God to make mother well." To this request the doctor did not yield; so the child fell upon her knees, and simply asked,

"O Lord, please do make mother better; doctor has done all he can, but, Lord, Thou art the Good Physician, Thou canst make her well; we cannot spare mother, Lord, do make her well, for Jesus' sake. Amen."

As the child, after repeating her petition, still remained kneeling, the doctor said to the nurse,

"Take the child away, she is mad!"

"Not mad, doctor," exclaimed the child, raising her head to reply; "not mad—waiting for the answer."

Her childish prayer was offered in faith, and she kneeled still "waiting for the answer;" it came all quickly, for upon the mother's face there rested a calm and peaceful look, and a quiet sleep followed.

Awaking after a few hours' refreshing rest, the loving daughter asked,

"Mother, are you better?"

"Yes, dear," she said, "I am certainly better."

"I knew you would be better, mother. I have been asking God to make you better, and I have been 'waiting for the answer' to my prayer; He has given it to me, and now I know He will make you well."

The mother was restored, and was a witness of the Lord's power over disease and death, His love and faithfulness in answering believing prayer.

Dear reader, do you "wait for the answer" to your prayers? God does not answer all prayers as quickly as the one of which I have written, but the answer will come to each petition in His time, and in His way.

May this simple, true story teach us each "always to pray and not to faint," but be "waiting" always also "for the answer;" it will surely come, for Jesus' sake.

Messages of God’s Love 6/20/1926

Something You Must Remember

CHRIST died for the ungodly." Let the message be carried far and wide. Jesus, the spotless One, the sinless One, the Son of God, made His soul an offering for sin. On the cross of shame He died that you, that "whosoever will," should not perish, but have everlasting life. Remember this, whatever else you may forget, that salvation has been provided for you. Jesus, the once crucified and now risen Lord, is God's gift to you. To receive Him means everlasting life and joy; to reject Him means the blackness of darkness forever. Which shall it be? The acceptance or rejection of the Lord Jesus Christ decides your eternal state.

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

Messages of God’s Love 6/20/1926

The Only Way to Enter Heaven

How many children, say,

"I'd like to go to heaven;"

Yet never think that they

Must have their sins forgiven,

Before they can in glory be,

Or Jesus Christ in glory see.

None can to glory go,

Or dwell with God above,

Save they who Jesus know,

And taste a Saviour's love;

The holy words of truth declare

No other grounds of entrance there.

But now this "living way"

To all is open free;

And ruined sinners may

Go in and happy be—

May have their sins through Christ forgiven,

The only way to enter heaven.

Messages of God’s Love 6/20/1926

The Shepherd's Care

HAVE you noticed the shepherd how he watches each sheep, and if one is hurt, he carefully attends to it.

There is a beautiful verse of Scripture that speaks of God's tender care over His people Israel, and I should like to have you learn it. We may take it for ourselves, too, if we are one of His sheep or lambs.

"HE SHALL FEED HIS FLOCK LIKE A SHEPHERD: HE SHALL GATHER THE LAMBS WITH HIS ARM, AND CARRY THEM IN HIS BOSOM." Isa. 40:11.

How beautifully this describes the Lord's tender care over His own. He is ever watchful and mindful of us. We may expect this when we know that He loved us so much as to give Himself for us and to die in our stead. He offers salvation to all, and saves a11 who put their trust in Him.

May all of you dear readers, put your trust in Him as your Saviour, then you can count on His tender and loving care as your shepherd all through your life. You may go to Him about every trial and difficulty, and remember that He cares for you. Nothing is too small or too great to tell Him about.

Messages of God’s Love 6/27/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 14

Jonathan is again the man of faith. Of his father it is said that he tarried under a pomegranate tree with the remnant of his weaponless army, while the Philistines were but a short distance away. Saul had with him, too, the priest, Eli's grandson, Ahiah, later called Ahimelech; he was afterwards killed by Saul's orders (chapter 22:10- 19 ) .

To neither of these, Jonathan told the purpose he had formed, of attacking the enemy with his armorbearer. His trust was in the living God, and he very likely knew that his father would be a hindrance rather than a help.

We do not have faith by the natural birth, but by a new birth which is of God, by His Spirit and His Word. Faith counts upon God alone; He is its resource, and so we presently see in Jonathan's case,

"It may be," said Jonathan to his armorbearer, "that the Lord will work for us, for there is no restraint to the Lord to save by many or by few." These are inspiring words, and betoken a soul which looked to God for direction and help.

The sign that Jonathan asked for, being given, he said to his companion,

"Come up after me, for the Lord path delivered them into the hand of Israel."

This was true faith; would that more of it were seen today!

Climbing up over the rocks, the two men reached the Philistine garrison, and in a short time 20 of them fell before them. Now came one of these marvelous interventions of God in behalf of His people, for the enemy's hosts were utterly shaken, trembling, and presently fell to killing one another, and the earth quaked besides.

Learning of the commotion among the Philistines from his watchmen, Saul now discovered that Jonathan and his armor-bearer were missing. He would ask direction from God through the priest, but as the tumult among the Philistines increased, Saul and all that were with him went to the place, and found that every man was fighting with his fellow. The Hebrews who had been with the Philistines in their camp, now joined with those in the company of Saul and Jonathan, and they who hid in Mount Ephraim came out to join the rest in slaughtering the fleeing enemy. Thus God gave victory where defeat seemed to nature's view, certain.

Saul, ignorant of God as we have before noticed, hindered the battle by keeping the people from food through the day. His thoughts rose no higher than himself, as his words show (verse 24); "that I may be avenged on mine enemies." Truly (lid his son say (verse 29), "My father bath troubled the land." Saul, in spite of his religiousness, for we read of his here building an altar to God, was no help to the people who had so gladly made him their king. He would even Lave had Jonathan put to death, to whom ruder God the victory was due, had not the people prevented him, and so having proposed to follow the Philistines by night, he finally allowed them to escape to their own place.

Verses 47-51 are a summary of Saul's career as king, including the names of his children, his wife and the captain of his host. The closing verse of our chapter shows Saul building up his army with strong and brave men, but tells nothing of any change in the man himself. We are not even told that he thanked God for the great victory over the Philistines of which this chapter tells.

Messages of God’s Love 6/27/1926

Turning the Grindstone

WHEN I was a little boy, I remember, one cold. winter's morning, I was accosted by a smiling man with an ax on his shoulder.

"My pretty boy," said he, "has your father a grindstone?"

"Yes, sir," said I.

"You are a fine little fellow," said he; "will you let me grind my ax on it?"

Pleased with the compliment of "fine little fellow," I answered "O, yes, sir," "it is down in the shop."

"And will you, my man," said he, patting me on the head, "bring me a little hot water?" How could I refuse? I ran, and soon brought a kettleful. "How old are you? and what's your name?" continued he, without waiting for a reply; "I am sure you are one of the finest boys that I have ever seen; will you just turn the wheel a few minutes for me?"

Tickled with the flattery, like a foolish boy, I went to work, and bitterly did I rue the day. It was a new ax, and I toiled and tugged till I was almost tired to death. The school-bell rang, and I could not get away; my hands were blistered, and the ax was not half ground. At length, however, it was sharpened; and the man turned to me with,

"Now, you little rascal, you've played truant; scud to school, or you'll rue it!"

"Alas!" thought I, "it was hard enough to turn a grindstone this cold day; but now to be called a little rascal is too much." It sank deep in my mind; and often have I thought of it since. When I see a man flattering the people, I think, "That man has an ax to grind."

Now, dear children, you who know the Lord Jesus as your Saviour, who do you suppose is brought before us in the person of this man? Why Satan, of course.

Satan is an enemy, adversary and accuser. We know him as the enemy of our souls by the way in which he tried to keep us from coming to the Lord before we were saved; and since, in his character as adversary, seeks to oppose us on every step of the way, and then when his point is gained, he accuses us before the Father.

He tries in every way, to cause us to bring dishonor upon our blessed Lord. At times he would frighten us, by presenting himself as a roaring lion. In God's Word we read:

"Be sober, be vigilant, because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion walketh about, seeking whom he may devour." 1 Peter 5:8.

He is also very subtle. The apostle Paul says, that Satan transforms himself into an angel of light (2 Cor. 11:14). He has taken on that character more in these last days, and sad to say, with flattering words and fair speeches, many are thereby deceived.

Dear children, do not let this enemy of your souls, get an advantage of you, whatever character he assumes,. because the Scripture says, "We are not ignorant of Lis devices," (2 Cor. 2:11). Not, we should not be, but, are not, ignorant of his devices.

Another thing, Satan is a hard taskmaster. The little boy in our story found this out, and so will you. But on the contrary, serving the Lord is easy. He has said:

"Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me, for My yoke is easy, and My burden is light." Matt. 11:29-30.

Yes, dear boys and girls, "Let us have grace, whereby we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear." Heb. 12:28.

"Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward, for ye serve the Lord Christ." Col. 3:24.

"Therefore, be ye steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know, that, your labor is not in vain in the Lord." 1 Cor. 15:58.

Messages of God’s Love 6/27/1926

A Happy Child

ONE evening I was walking through the busy streets of a manufacturing city. Workmen in large numbers were hurrying home. Suddenly a door in a store near me opened, and a pretty little girl of about six years of age, stepped to my side, looking up at me, said;

"Good evening, dear uncle."

"You must be mistaken, my dear," I said, "I don't know that I am your uncle."

"O, yes," she answered, in no way discouraged, "I believe you are my uncle, for don't you love the dear Lord Jesus?"

"Yes, my child," I answered, "I know and love that good and faithful Shepherd. He is also my Saviour. But how did you know I love Him?"

"O," said the child, "I often have to get things for my mother, who is sick, and because I am afraid to go alone so late, I pray to the Lord Jesus, before going, that He may send me a dear uncle who can go with me to my house."

"Where do you live?" I asked her.

"In the next to the last house; you are going with me as far as that, are you not, dear uncle?"

"Yes," I said, "I am going as far as that, and still farther, and I am glad to accompany you. "But", I added, "is your mother very sick?"

"Yes", she said, "she has to be in bed most of the time. My sister is sick too. My mother says soon we shall all go to be with the Lord Jesus; and then she and my little sister will be sick no longer. That will be nice, and then we will also see the Lord Jesus Himself. Really, dear uncle, wouldn't that be fine? And then you will be there too: but see we live right here." With these last words, she pointed to a little house by the road, quickly shook hands with me, and said,

"Good night, dear uncle;" and disappeared from my side.

I thought, what a happy child is this little one; and I have told you, dear little readers, about her, to ask you whether you too love the Lord Jesus like that, and pray to Him so confidentially that He may be your Protector and Guide in all your ways? Yes, dear children, answer these questions for yourselves.

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

Messages of God’s Love 6/27/1926

I'm Not too Young

I'm not too young for God to see;

He knows my name and nature too;

And all day long He looks at me,

And sees my actions through and through.

He listens to the words I say,

And knows the thoughts I have within;

And whether I'm at work or play,

He's sure to know it if I sin.

"O Lord, Thou hast searched me, and known me. Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, Thou understandeth my thought afar off. Thou compassest my path and my lying down, and art acquainted with all my ways. For there is not a word in my tongue, but, lo, 0 Lord, thou knowest it altogether. Thou hast beset me behind and before, and laid Thine hand upon me. Such knowledge is too wonderful for me; it is high, I cannot attain unto it." Psa. 139:1-6.

Messages of God’s Love 6/27/1926

Bible Questions for July

Answers to Bible Questions for May

"Behold what manner of," etc. 1 John 3:1.

"Beloved, follow not that," etc. 3 " 11.

"That the trial of your," etc. 1 Peter 1:7.

"But the day of the," etc. 2 Peter 3:10.

"Keep yourselves in the," etc. Jude 21.

"If there come any," etc. 2 John 10.

"But the end of all things," etc. 1 Peter 4:7.

"The Children's Class"

The Answers are to be found in Matthew

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Day of judgment."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Clothe the grass."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Be ye also ready."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Forbid them not."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Have done it unto Me."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "I am well pleased."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "The living God."

"The Young People's Bible Class"

The Answers are to be found in Matthew

What does God value more than the whole world?

Give the Lord's invitation to one who feels his load of sin.

What should we seek first?

How many times should we forgive one another?

Give the number of times that the heavens were opened, and the occasion of each.

What did the angels say to the women?

Give that parable which describes the event for which Christians are watching and waiting. Please tell the Lord to which of these two companies you belong.

Messages of God’s Love 7/4/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 15

Samuel, who as we have observed, had retired when Saul became king, now gave him a fresh message from God, reminding him first that it was God who had caused him to be king, and calling him to attend to the message. The Amalekites, enemies who attacked Israel while in the wilderness on their way to the promised land, were now to be utterly destroyed,—a type of Satan's power exerted to turn back God's children into the world from seeking the enjoyment of the heavenly portion He had promised. Amalek was not to be spared, but entirely wiped out as to every vestige of life.

With a large army Saul set out in obedience to God's word, and smote the Amalekites from Havilah to Shur, but he did not carry out his orders, for he left the king, Agag, alive, and kept the best of the sheep, the oxen, the fatlings, the lambs and all that was good. What was vile and refuse they destroyed utterly. This no doubt seemed very nice, indeed, but it was disobedience to the revealed mind of God.

Samuel felt it deeply to have again and finally to tell Saul that God had rejected him; he "cried unto the Lord all night", but the next morning early, he went to meet Saul, who, returning from his attack on the Amalekites, had gone to Gil-gal. But the state of soul for which Gil-gal stood, was not Saul's state; he was a stranger to God with all his religion. To Samuel, Saul said, "I have performed the commandment of the Lord," and claimed that the sheep and oxen brought back were for sacrifices. But Samuel gave him the solemn judgment of God about himself, that because he, the man made by God the king over Israel, had rejected the word of the Lord, He had rejected him from being king.

"Hath the Lord," Samuel said, "as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices as in obeying the voice of the Lord? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams, for rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry."

Saul owned that he had sinned, but his chief thought was his place of honor before the people. Samuel acted for God where the king had failed, and killed Agag, then went to his home at Ramah, no more to see Saul, yet mourning for him.

How many times the Bible shows that man, even at his best, is not worthy of trust. Men are born sinners, and they need to know Christ as Saviour before they can bring forth anything fit for God. It was "when we were yet without strength", that Christ died for sinners, for the ungodly,—and faith declares, "for me".

Can you truly say that, reader, whoever and wherever you may be,—"Christ died for me"? There is but one Deliverer from the wrath to come, Jesus. Do you know Him? Have you trusted Him with your soul for eternity? Do not delay!

Messages of God’s Love 7/4/1926

Lost

I DARESAY several of my readers know what it is to have lost something they valued greatly. How sad it made them! Well do they remember, too, the joy they had on finding the missing article, especially if it had been a gift from some valued friend or kind relative.

The writer remembers one bright morning coming across

A LOST BOOK

belonging to a boy. He found, it at the side of the road, near a telegraph-post. Very likely the boy had noticed the swallows clustering on the telegraph wires before going to a warmer climate. Or he might have been attracted by the blackberries, growing in tempting profusion near the spot, and so had forgotten all about his book. Do you not think the boy would be glad to get back his book, instead of paying for its loss?

The same day, calling at a cottage, we noticed worked on canvas, hanging on the wall some very important words as to

LOST TIME.

The object of the writer being to show the great value of time; how careful we should be to use it rightly, for wasted moments, like lost opportunities, never come our way again. Queen Elizabeth is said to have exclaimed when dying, "A million of gold for an hour of time!" But she had left the most important business of life too late. She might have thought her lofty position would exempt her from having to think of her sins; small and great must alike stand before God.

This brings us to another loss, of which, dear reader, if you are not already a believer, the writer desires to speak to you, in the words of another.

"To lose the wealth is much,

To lose the health is more;

To lose the soul is such a loss

As nothing can restore."

You have a soul. In Luke 15 we have the description by God's own Son of a LOST SOUL, looked at in three ways. Will you not read the chapter for yourself? In this scripture we have an account of a sinner who has learned himself a sinner in God's sight. God says, "All have sinned." We read in the opening verses of our chapter of a hundred sheep, and all means the whole hundred, but nearly ninty-nine out of a hundred are unwilling to own to this. All we deserve is to be shut out of God's presence for ever. What a dreadful thought! Do you believe what God says of you? Then listen. Jesus, who is the good Shepherd, has become a SEEKING SAVIOUR. He in grace came into the world to take out of it sinners to dwell in heaven for ever. He died upon the cross, shed His blood to save them. When a sinner believes in Him it gives joy to His heart,—a joy no words can express.

Messages of God’s Love 7/4/1926

God's Wonderful Creation

I sit and look around me,

At nature's lovely scenes,

At clouds and vegetation,

At rushing, tumbling streams;

I think of God who made them,—

A mind so wonderful,

That could conceive such beauty;

I learn in His great school.

I bow in thankful worship,

As I behold His power,

Displayed in His creation,

In sky, and sun, and shower

His wisdom too, unerring,

Shines out in all He's made,

A mind of beauty, order,

Is everywhere displayed.

And man, a wondrous being,

O'er all His works supreme,

Can find in Thee, Creator,

An unexhausting theme.

But not alone creation,

His power and love has shown,

But His great revelation,

Himself to us made known.

Though fallen, lost, and ruined,

A slave to Satan, sin,

Our God has spoken kindly,

Brought light and peace within.

For through the cross of Calvary,

We see redeeming love,

Through it God fits His creatures,

To dwell with Him above,—

Beyond all clouds, all sorrow,

Beyond all weakness here,

Beyond all darkness, shadows,

Beyond all doubt and fear;

Into the glorious sunshine,

Into the home of light,

Into the joy and gladness,

Into God's glory bright.

"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 7/4/1926

Great Expectations

WHEN I was a child ten or twelve years old, I used to go with my brothers and sister and two other children of Christian parents to fish in a little stream in Nebraska. We often caught little cat fish and perch, and when we went home, our mothers cooked them for our dinner.

In our picture you see one of the boys holding his fishing rod out over the water patiently waiting for the fish to bite. The others are watching quietly, for if they made a noise the fish would be frightened away and could not be caught. But if the children all keep quiet, they may expect to catch some fish and they are happy in this expectation.

Dear children, does this remind you of something else we are expecting? Most of you, if not all, have heard that Jesus is coming to take those who love Him—coming to take them away from this world of sin and sorrow to His happy home above, where all is joy.

We do not know just when He will come, but He tells us to watch and wait, for He may come at any time. As a dear little girl four years old said to me the other day, "He may come this afternoon."

"THE COMING OF THE LORD DRAWETH NIGH." Jas. 5:8.

This is indeed a great expectation—greater than any other. Some of us have been looking forward for many years, to the coming of the Lord Jesus. Just as when fishing, we often have to wait a long time for the fish to bite, so many of us have waited a long time for the Lord to come.

But He is coming, and He wants us to wait patiently.

"Be patient, therefore, brethren unto the coming of the Lord." Jas. 5:7.

'Tis not far off—the hour

When Christ will claim His own!

We soon shall hear that voice of power,—

The Lord Himself shall come!

Messages of God’s Love 7/11/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 16

We saw no humbling, no sorrow, on Saul's part because of his disobedience; just a confession, hoping to escape punishment. and as he learned that that could not be, he pleaded with Samuel to honor him before the people. Samuel left him, to meet him no more before his death, but mourning over him.

Saul, however was rejected by God, and Samuel must cease mourning about him; instead, he was to seek out the man after God's own heart (chapter 13, verse 14). Among the sons of Jesse was this one to be found. Is it not a principle of the Word of God, that the natural man shall first be tried and when he has failed, the man of faith is brought in? There are many such instances found in the Scriptures, and of them all, the greatest example is that of the Lord Jesus, the One from heaven, the last Adam.

It is interesting to note that Bethlehem where Jesus lived was only about six miles south of Jerusalem; it was where Rachel was buried (Gen. 35:19); where Boaz lived (Ruth 2:4, etc.), who was David's great-grandfather; and here eleven hundred years later, Jesus was born (Matt. 2:1 ) .

Faithful, God-honoring Samuel was mistaken in attempting to decide which son of Jesse was the Lord's anointed. Neither the position of Eliab as the eldest son, nor his "countenance," nor "the height of his stature" were concerned in God's choice; it was a question of his heart, that which God alone sees and estimates aright. Jesse and Samuel then may have supposed that the second son, Abinadab, must be the chosen one, but it was not he nor any of the rest of the seven whom Jesse had brought to meet Samuel.

There remained one son, so little in his father's thoughts as the one chosen of God, that he had not troubled to bring him in from shepherding the sheep. But as the stone which the builders refused was to be made the head stone of the corner (Psa. 117:22), referring to Christ, so, foreshadowing that, even the one little thought of—David—was to be the king of Israel.

And David must suffer before he reigns; another likeness to Christ. The Holy Spirit who had come upon Saul when he was made king, now left him, and came upon David. (This is not the indwelling of the Spirit, which never took place until Christ was crucified, raised and glorified). And an evil spirit from the Lord troubled him. That the evil spirits are subject to God, is shown by the Scriptures, both Old and New Testaments (see Job. 1; 1 Kings 22:23; Matt. 8:16; Mark 1:31).

The unhappy king of Israel had set a course for himself; "rebellion" and "stubbornness", and the rejection of the "word of the Lord" (chapter 15, verse 23) marked him, and God had given him up in consequence to Satan. May we not believe this condition to be true in our own day with those to whom much has been given, and who have deliberately turned away from God, though professing His name?

Saul's servants suggested that someone be brought to play the harp before him, and this led to the future king's being as a servant in the house of Saul. This was not exactly like Moses in the court of Pharaoh, but of the same school of God for His children. It must have been humbling to David, but he had more and deeper training before him, ere he took his seat on the throne.

Messages of God’s Love 7/11/1926

For Charlie's Sake

A WEALTHY merchant sat in his office, busily engaged with the morning letters. A tap was heard at the door, and in response to the merchant's "Come in," a lame soldier in a soiled uniform walked in, and taking off his cap, began to search his pockets, saying confusedly,

"I have a letter for you, sir."

The merchant returned to his desk, feeling annoyed that he should be interrupted so early in the day, by one whom he regarded as a beggar.

In the meantime the soldier had found the letter, and with a trembling hand liad it on the merchant's desk.

He was about to throw it to one side, and ask the soldier to come back at another time, when his eye fell on the envelope, the address of which he immediately recognized to be in the familiar hand writing of his only son, who was an officer and had gone with his regiment to the battle field.

That sight at once changed the merchant's thoughts towards the visitor, and he immediately found him a chair, and asked him to be seated.

Opening the letter, he read—"Dear Father,

The bearer of this is a soldier discharged from the hospital. He is going home to die. Do anything for him that you can, for Charlie's sake."

The busy merchant laid aside his duties and "for Charlie's sake," he found a room and other comforts for the needy soldier, and the following day, loaded with many gifts, he was sent on to his native place, where "for Charlie's sake'' the wealthy merchant showed him much kindness for many years.

This touching story tells how God, for Christ's sake, is now dealing with needy sinners. In ourselves we deserve nothing, and have no claim upon God to show us kindness. But whenever the Name of Jesus is presented to God; whenever a sinner's faith lays hold on that worthy Name, God at once forgives (1 John 2:12), gives eternal life (1 John .1:1:3), and saves (Acts 4:12) for His Name's sake. Apart from the Name of Jesus, God's beloved Son, there is no salvation and no forgiveness. In that Name, the chief of sinners will be welcomed to God's heart, and everlastingly saved.

There is a name we love to hear,

We love to sing its worth;

It sounds like music in our ear,

The sweetest name on earth.

It tells us of a Saviour's love,

Who died to set us free:

It tells us of His Precious blood,

The sinner's perfect plea.

Messages of God’s Love 7/11/1926

Save Me! O, Save Me!

NEAR the school-house there lay a large pond, and in the winter time, during noon hour, we used to resort there to enjoy the excellent skating, for it was indeed a pleasant and healthful recreation.

At the head of the pond a river entered, rendering the ice unsafe at this point, and as a rule we kept well clear of this.

One little boy, however, more venturesome than the others, skated too near and broke through and soon would have drowned. O! how the little fellow cried for help, and well he might, for he could not help himself, and thus just like poor sinners—he was perishing. At first there seemed no means of rescue, for though a number of others had come, hearing his cries, yet no one seemed willing to risk his own life to save that of the drowning boy, but at last one of the oldest of the number volunteered, and lying down flat on the ice, said,

"Now, push me out."

This we did by his feet until he could take hold of the other boy's hands when we quickly drew them both to the safe ice.

Now, dear children, I am sure you will say "How good of that big boy to risk his own life to save that of the little one," and you are quite right, for otherwise he would have gone to his death under the ice.

Yet, how little this compares with what the blessed Son of God did, for He really gave His life to save even His enemies.

"While we were yet sinners Christ died for us." Rom. 5:8.

He went down even into death's dark waters that He might rescue perishing sinners, saving them, not only from death, but saving them to share His home in the Father's house.

Now you see, the poor boy was saved, not through his own doings; in fact, he could do nothing to save himself, but another one drew him out, and to a place of safety. So it must be with us all if we would be saved.

"Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners." 1 Tim. 1:15. 4

"Nothing, either great or small,

Nothing, sinner, no;

Jesus did it, did it all,

Long, long ago."

Messages of God’s Love 7/11/1926

How To Make A Fortune

A YOUNG man had been a brilliant success both at school and the university. He attracted the attention of a wealthy man, who propounded a plan how to make his fortune. He consulted his old professor, who listened to his proposal, then quietly asked,

"For which world?"

This set him to thinking as to the value of this world in comparison with "the world to come" (Mark 10:30), and eventually led to the wise course of making sure of "an inheritance incorruptible, that fadeth not away" (1 Peter 1:4), whatever he might do here.

Was that not a wise choice? Have you done the same? Whatever prospects lie ahead of you as to this life—are you ready for Eternity? Is your name written in the Lamb's Book of Life? If not, make this your "first."

"Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ," that He loved you and died on the cross for you, "and thou shalt be saved."

"The world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God ahideth forever." 1 John 2:17.

Messages of God’s Love 7/11/1926

Jesus and the Children

Jesus is the gentle Shepherd

Who upon the cross,

Died to save the little children,

When He died for us.

Jesus loves the little children,

Loves to hear them say,

Lord, my heart is very sinful,

-Wash my sins away.

Jesus calls the little children,

Calls .them tenderly

Once He put His arms around them,

Saying, "Come to Me."

Messages of God’s Love 7/11/1926

The Milk of the Word

WHAT a nice picture we have before us today in these Jersey beauties. They are well cared for. Apparently the young girl has brought them along with the goat, down to the brook for a drink and a cooling. The dog no doubt will watch them and keep them from going too far into the water.

In these cows and goat do we 'not see God's wonderful provision for boys and girls, older ones too, in providing milk for the nourishment of our bodies? How thankful we should be to the Giver of every good and perfect gift!

There would be no growth for the babe, unless fed and nourished by milk, and we love to see baby grow. So it is with young believers, God calls them babes in Christ. You know dear ones, God has provided food for our souls, as well as for our bodies. There will be no growth of soul, unless we feed on God's food. A young believer in a healthy condition, will hunger for His food.

"AS NEW BORN BABES, DESIRE THE SINCERE MILK OF THE WORD, THAT YE MAY GROW THEREBY." 1 Pet. 2:2.

We long and pray that all our young readers may come to the Lord Jesus in their youth. Time is quickly passing; the day of God's grace will soon be over, soon we shall hear the "shout", and all under the shelter of Jesus' blood will be caught up, to be forever with Him. Will you be among the number; or will you be left behind for judgment, banished from God's presence for eternity?

Do not delay longer, dear unsaved soul, but come, and enjoy the food of God's providing,—"The Milk of the Word."

"Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth My Word, and believeth on Him that sent Me, path everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment but is passed from death unto life." John 5:24.

Messages of God’s Love 7/18/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 17

In this long chapter there are but two principal characters, Goliath, the Philistine giant; and David, the future king of Israel,—the one a type of Satan; the other of Christ. The Holy Spirit delights to tell about Jesus, and so the Bible abounds in accounts of men who, in one way or another were marked by events in their lives, or by behavior that, however faintly it might be, yet resembled the Son of God when He was pleased to come to this world as a man, to die for sinners on the cross. We saw in Joseph (Gen. 37 to 50) one principal type of the Lord; and in David we shall find another, the Holy Spirit presenting in the record of both their lives that which was in some degree like Him Who in word and deed was above and beyond all men, and with this in view, the failures and sins of Joseph and David are given but little space in God's Word.

The Philistines had suffered severely in the fourteenth chapter, but were bold again, and reappeared with one at their head who terrified the people of Israel. Goliath was at the least about 8 feet, 4 inches in height, and he was so clothed with brass that he must have been a most dangerous antagonist to one armed with the weapons employed in warfare in his day. Boldly he shouted to the Israelite soldiers his cutting words of defiance, and Saul and all Israel felt their helplessness and were greatly afraid. They might well be, for they had no one able to meet Goliath.

Jonathan was not equal to this occasion as he had been in earlier times.

David must have remained only a very short while with Saul (close of 16th chapter). He had gone back home before this time, to feed his father's sheep, but his three eldest brothers were in the army, and the father, Jesse, gave David an errand to carry food to them and to their captain, and find out how the young men were. Arriving there just before the giant came out, David heard his words, and he seems to have been the only one not frightened. "Who is this ...... that he should defy the armies of the living God?" showed where David's confidence lay.

The haughty spirit of his oldest brother, who knew nothing of what was the secret of David's strength, now came out (verse 28). So Joseph had endured, scorned by his brethren, but the pattern is seen in its perfection in Jesus, Who, when He was reviled, reviled not again. What was it that marked David that he was bold where others were terrified? Faith in God. It was the living God that was in question (verses 26, 36), and that was enough for the man of faith. The giant had no power against Him. David might indeed as a man be judged to be "not able" to meet the veteran soldier, but he knew the One Who had delivered him, and given him victory over the lion and the bear (verses 34-37). Saul knew' nothing of this faith; his was the strength of nature and powerless before the devil.

Saul's fighting clothes and sword therefore are rejected in favor of the simplest weapons.

David took his staff and chose five smooth stones (one stone would have been sufficient, but we see perfection only in Jesus) out of the brook, which he put in a shepherd's bag; then with his sling in his hand, he went out to meet Goliath. The giant treated David with contempt, and cursed him by his gods; he thought he could make short work of him. David, on his part answered:

"Thou comest to me with a sword and with a spear, and with a shield, but I come to thee in the name of the Lord of Hosts, the God of the armies of Israel whom thou hast defied,,,,,, The battle is the Lord's, and He will give you into our hands." Bold words, but the speaker was moved by faith and counted upon God's power; he had nothing to say about himself, we notice. David ran to meet Goliath; he put a stone from his bag in his sling, and with it struck the giant 'Philistine with such force that the stone sunk into his forehead, and he fell upon his face to the ground. Then as the Philistines fled, David ran and stood on the fallen Goliath, drew his sword, and slew him, cutting off his head.

It was easy now for the men of Israel and Judah to chase the Philistines, who ran for their lives. They were followed to the gates of their city of Ekron, but the victory was all David's. The chapter closes with David bringing the giant's head to Jerusalem, and with Saul asking about David, having evidently forgotten his being the harp player in his house for a short time.

Messages of God’s Love 7/18/1926

Ye Know Not What Shall Be On The Morrow

THEY think they are young, and that there is plenty of time for them," were the words uttered by a mother, when asked if her children were saved.

Sad, indeed, it is, that such a thought should ever enter into the minds of children, and that they should make their youth an excuse for neglecting God's great salvation; when they know not what a day may bring forth, and that eternity must be spent either in heaven or in hell.

It is God's desire that children's hearts should be turned to Him, that they may be made happy now and forever.

What did the Saviour say?

"It is not the will of your Father which is heaven that one of these little ones should perish." And, "Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth," says the voice of wisdom. How wonderful a thing it is that God who made the

earth, whose hand spread out the heavens, and who holds in its place each shining star, should think thus tenderly of a little child!

Listen to the loving words of the Lord Jesus: "Suffer the children to come unto Me."

Why are children heedless of the gracious invitations of the living God, who thus so graciously speaks to them? Why should they stay away for another moment from that loving Saviour whose arms are open to receive them?

I will tell you about a little boy, who though taken away very suddenly, was quite prepared to go. His name was Tommy. He was six years old, and went regularly to Sunday-school. Although so young, he used to listen attentively, and was never tired of hearing of Jesus, and how He loved him, and had died on the cross that he might be made fit to be with. Him forever.

One day Tommy did not seem well, and his mother asked him if he would like to stay at home, adding, "You could go again next Sunday."

He answered, "Next Sunday I might be in heaven."

Next Sunday came, but Tommy's seat was empty. His words, spoken the week before, had come true. Tommy was in heaven.

On the Monday, he had been taken very ill, and after two days, during which he was quite unconscious, he passed away.

He had no time to think; he was unable to do so, but sweet it is to know he did not need to do so, for he knew the Lord Jesus loved him, and had died for him.

Let not the thought enter your heart, dear children, that because you are young there is plenty of time; for God says,

"Thou knowest not what a day may bring forth."

There is danger in delay. We do not know if we may have another day on earth.

Christ is coming quickly.
Eternity is very near; nearer, perhaps, than we think.

O! come to Jesus now, that you may be saved.

"Come to the Saviour, come to the Light,

Jesus is calling you, all is so bright.

His peace and His pardon He willingly gives,

He died for our sins, but for ever He lives."

Messages of God’s Love 7/18/1926

Look

A WOMAN who was anxious about her soul's salvation said to a Christian:

"I have been doing everything I can to be saved."

"What have you been doing?" he inquired.

"I have been praying, and weeping, and reading the Scriptures, and trying to repent, and what more can I do?"

"Leave off all your doings and look there," pointing upwards.

"Where?" she anxiously asked.

"There, at Jesus, the One who bled, suffered, died, the Lamb of God who died for your sins. You have been looking within at your own wretched heart, trying to get salvation out of it. You cannot pump salvation out of your heart,—salvation comes down to you through Him."

"Is that it?" she said.

"Yes; God says it, and you must believe it."

"Is—that——it?" she exclaimed, with joy. "I see it. I see it. Thank God I am saved."

Turning round to an anxious soul, she said,

"It's so easy. You have only to believe." The Lord says:

"Look unto Me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth, for I am God, and there is none else" Isa. 45:22.

God's way of salvation is by looking to Christ. The bitten Israelite had but one way of cure, and that was by looking to the uplifted serpent on the pole."

"Every one that is bitten when he looketh on it shall live" (Num. 21:8). Had he looked at the pole, would he have been healed?

"Certainly not," you reply.

"Had he looked at his wound, and been exceedingly sorry on account of his sin, would he have obtained healing?

"No'', you say. The very moment that he looked at the brazen serpent on the top of the pole, that very moment he would be perfectly cured. The Lord Jesus applied the incident to Nicodemus in the ever to be remembered words:

"And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of Man be lifted up, that whosoever belleveth in Him, should not perish, but have eternal life" John 3:14, 15.

The moment that you by faith believe in or look to the Lord Jesus paying the ransom for your deliverance, that very moment you obtain eternal life.

Look, thou lost one, to the Saviour,

Seated on yon glorious throne;

Look! this moment, He will save you

For He has salvation won.

Matchless Saviour! Matchless Saviour!

Jesus all the work has done.

Now believe in Him the Saviour,

Now believe what He has done;

Then with others tell the story,

Jesus has salvation won.

Come to Jesus, come to Jesus—

Jesus, God's beloved Son.

Messages of God’s Love 7/18/1926

A Life Boat

THERE is a country in Europe called Holland. Some of you are old enough to go to school and have studied about this wonderful country. Much of it is below the sea level.

In many places, walls, called dikes, have been built along the streams to keep the water from over-flowing the land. Sometimes one of these dikes breaks. Then the water pours in over the land, and causes a great deal of trouble.

In our picture we see the water up almost to the roofs of the houses. Away in the distance is a little boat. Some of

the people got into this and were thus saved from drowning.

See these dear little chicks! Do you know what they are in? It looks like a wooden shoe—the kind of shoe that people in Holland wear. Because it is made of wood it is light enought to float and keep the water out.

How safe the chicks are in this lifeboat. The water cannot touch them. The big wooden shoe is a place of refuge which means a place of shelter or safety.

Do you know, dear children, where you can find refuge in all kinds of trouble and danger? There is a beautiful verse that says,—

"GOD IS OUR REFUGE AND STRENGTH, A VERY PRESENT HELP IN TROUBLE." Psa. 46:1.

He is glad to protect you from harm and danger if you trust in Him. He also wants to protect you from the punishment that we all deserve as sinners. He died on the cross to bear the punishment of your sins and mine. So in Him we find refuge from, the punishment we deserve, if we believe in Him as our Saviour, and there will be no other refuge,—no other life-boat,—when God pours out His judgment on this sinful world.

"There is none other name (but the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth) under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved." Acts. 4:12.

Dear reader, if you are not safe in Christ, turn to Him at once. You may not have another opportunity. Turn to Him today for refuge. Tomorrow may be too late.

Messages of God’s Love 7/25/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 18

From what we have seen of Saul, it is clear that he wanted David for personal advantage; as an officer of or attendant upon the king, a member of his official family and one of his soldiers; the glory of Saul should shine more brightly because of David's killing the Philistine giant. With Jonathan it was different, although he was Saul's son; his soul was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul. There was a covenant between these two young men—the son of the rebellious king, and the one whom God had chosen, and who had been so wonderfully victorious over the enemy of Israel.

And Jonathan, lost in admiration of David, stripped himself of his robe (literally, mantle), and gave it to David, and his garments (literally, long robe), even to his sword and to his bow and to his girdle. David, we may say was everything to him; self was forgotten.

In Jonathan we see a foreshadowing of the remnant of Israel which clung to Jesus in the time of His rejection; but in his attachment to David is a lovely picture of the devotion of heart to Christ which should mark every one redeemed with His precious blood. Is He not the altogether lovely One, dear Christian reader, the alone worthy One, worthy of homage and of praise, exhaustless theme of heavenly songs? O, how our hearts should go out after the Lord! May it be so increasingly with us who love Him because He first loved us.

The rejoicing in Israel was however not to Saul's liking at all; he became very angry and presently undertook to kill David. So was it with David's antitype, the rejected Son of Man, when He trod this earth. The Jews hated Him, conspired to kill Him, took the guilt of His death. ("His blood be on us, and on our children" Matt. 27:25).

David was to learn by the things which he suffered to depend upon God alone. Painful indeed were the exercises of heart through which he passed after he was anointed to be king, and much of his distress is told in the Psalms. There too we find his subjection to God; the 23rd Psalm was written after David had been put through trial, and it has been of great comfort to many of God's people who have gone through difficulties.

Note that in the dangers and sorrows which beset David at this period, God was with him, though perhaps it did not look that way to him at times.

"The Lord was with him, and was departed from Saul" (verse 12).

"And David behaved himself wisely in all his ways, and the Lord was with him" (verse 14). "And Saul saw and knew that the Lord was with 'David." (verse 28).

Like Joseph in the prison (Gen. 39: 23), there was One who had His eyes upon him, would never leave him, and looked on to the time when trial would cease for His poor afflicted servant.

Messages of God’s Love 7/25/1926

The Conversion of Pamp's "Pretty Boy"

A YOUNG negro, whose name was Pamp, who, through his skill and faithfulness, was soon prized above all the other servants. However he did not attend, the Christian services, but remained true to his own heathen customs.

He manifested a touching devotedness to the young son of the house, for whom, as he often affirmed, he would joyfully give his life. As the young master grew up into manhood, he got into bad company, who enticed him into their evil ways. This was a great grief to the whole family, none the less to the faithful Pamp, who could not bear the thought of the shame that the son was bringing upon the family. He begged him to stop carousing at night, and as this did no good, he followed him everywhere, for at least, to shield him from open shame, and often shed bitter tears over his "pretty boy" as he called him.

Nevertheless the unhappy youth sank still lower, and the poor mother almost lost hope of a change in her son. Then Pamp resolved in all quietness, to bring his god a great sacrifice, in order that his favorite might be delivered. He layed upon an altar of stone, everything that was valuable and precious to him. Yes, even killing his pet dog and throwing it into the flames.

But everything continued in the same old way, and the mother's heart was nearly breaking under this sorrow. Then Pamp, one day, asked for permission to speak to the mistress.

"Missus," he said in his broken English, "you have a god, Pamp have a different one, and young master haven't any. Pamp's soul in great distress for him. There must be a change, or he sink down to be like beast. Pamp thinks, we must call upon all the gods, maybe one can help."

"We will call upon my God," said his mistress. "He is the living and true God, Who has all power on earth, and loves my son even more than we do."

"0 that impossible," cried the negro, "nobody love him more than poor Pamp!" Whereupon he ran to the Christian's preacher.

"Massa preacher," he said, "Pamp came to tell you, you must do something for young master. Pamp everything did what he could. Pamp everything offered what was dear to him: watch, new suit, even faithful dog. Everything failed. Massa preacher from today on, must help missus pray, that God save young massa."

"I have prayed to God for that," answered the preacher, "and I hope He will yet hear us."

"Pamp asks, how often Massa preacher pray for young massa," ejaculated the negro doubtfully. "What offered you your God? Massa preacher out all night in storm and cold, in prayer and fasting? Massa preacher throw his watch in fire and hold his hand in flame?"

"0 Pamp," said the preacher, "that is not acceptable to God."

"What is then acceptable to Him," asked the negro eagerly.

"That we pray unceasingly, and believe that God has heard our prayers."

"And has Massa preacher done that?"

"I must confess, Pamp, not as I should have."

“The, Massa preacher, do so now, do so this evening in Missus’ house,” cried the poor negro completely beside himself. “If keeps on like this, Pamp will die before young Massa.”

The preacher went that same evening to the sad mother, and a few Christian friends accompanied him. The spirit of prayer penetrated the little assembly, and as one after the other claimed before the Lord is precious promises, the negro finally prayed too, “O God of dear Missus, tear young Massa from Satan’s clutch, and make him a good young Massa.”

The following Sunday. to everybody's surprise, Pamp for the first time, was seen in the chapel, and that in his work-clothes, which he had cleaned as well as he could; his good suit as you know was gone. On being asked the question,

"Why are you here?" he answered:

"Pamp intend to see what God can do. Pamp also intend to see if Massa preacher prays with all his might for Pamp's pretty boy."

The zeal of the negro which could not be put to shame, stirred many of those present to earnestly intercede for the young man. On the same evening, after another prayer meeting held at the house, the lost son returned from his revelry, trembling all over. The fear of God had taken hold of him. He broke down altogether before a holy God, and confessed with tears, his many sins, and received in that same night Christ as his Saviour. Through the blood of Christ, which was shed on Calvary's cross for him, he had found forgiveness; and in this wonderful strength of grace he was able to turn his back upon his evil ways, and henceforth tread his path, a meek and happy child of God.

He could say with the apostle Paul, "This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners." 1 Timothy 1.:15.

Henceforth that scripture was manifested in him, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Phil. 4:13.

This wonderful change made a powerful impression on Pamp, the faithful negro. He perceived the vanity of his gods, and turned to the only true and living God with his whole heart.

"O, if Pamp were only young," he would often say, "how readily Pamp would go to Africa, to tell poor negroes, what Jesus did for him and for Pamp's pretty boy. How gladly he would tell them of Jesus, who came to earth and gave His life to save sinners."

Messages of God’s Love 7/25/1926

Little Things

The little birds that sing and play

Amidst the branches of the trees,

In every accent seem to say,

"We're happy, if but Him we please."

The little lambs that skip and run

Across the fields of shaded grass,

Are happy in the morning sun,

While summer days so swiftly pass.

The little leaves upon the trees,

Drink in the sun and rain and air;

They nod and bend to every breeze,

And speak of Him who put them there.

The little children 'round Him pressed;

He took them in His arms of love;

While others frowned, He only "blessed"

And made them fit for Him above.

'Twas little children sang His praise,

When in His kingly state He rode;

Yea, rocks and hills, their voice may raise,

To sing hosannas to the Lord.

Then, little children, ne'er forget

The One who loved you unto death.

When trials come, ne'er frown nor fret,

But praise Him with your latest breath.

"Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God." Mark 10:14.

Messages of God’s Love 7/25/1926

Bible Questions for August

Answers to Bible Questions for June

"Behold, He cometh," etc. Rev. 1:7.

"Behold, I come as a," etc. " 16:15.

"Behold, I come quickly," etc. " 3:11.

"And, behold, I come," etc. " 22:12.

"Saying with a loud voice," etc. " 14:7.

"He which testifieth," etc. " 22:20.

"But that which ye have," etc. " 2:25.

"The Children's Class"

The Answers are to be found in Mark

Write in full the verse containing the words, "I am well pleased."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "A great calm."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "As many as touched."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Honor thy father."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Shall not lose his reward."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "In the clouds of heaven."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "All things well."

"The Young People's Bible Class"

The Answers are to be found in Mark

What healing miracle of our Lord is recorded only in Mark?

Who were the two who said, "If thou canst"?

Give the verse that is repeated three times.

What does our Lord promise those who leave all to follow Him?

What two conditions does our Lord put forth as necessary to our receiving an answer to our prayers?

Who has given "to every man his work"?

What does the Lord say as to the one "that believeth not"?

Messages of God’s Love 8/1/1926

At Their Best

THE two little boys and the dog in this very interesting, picture look as though they might be having their picture taken. See how carefully seated they are.

We all like to look our best when we have our pictures taken, but we ought to try all the time._ to look our best,-happy and cheerful,-and as neat and clean as the work we are doing will permit.

Then, dear children, besides looking our best, we should be doing our best. Whether playing or working, easy work or hard work, we should always do our best and be our best. If we love the Lord Jesus, who loves us so much, and has done so much for us, we will try to please Him at all times.

One way to please Him is to obey our parents and please them in every way we can.

"Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well pleasing unto the Lord." Col. 3:20.

Another way to please our Saviour is not to play with children who do and say naughty things.

"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.

If you read your Bibles, you will find what the Lord wants you to do, and also what He does not want you to do.

Then pray to Him often to help you to do only the things that please Him.

At all times and in all places, seek to please Him.

"The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good." Prov. 15:3.

Messages of God’s Love 8/1/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 19

Saul was now determined to put an end to David, but Jonathan delighted much in David, and told him to hide until the next day while he tried to turn his father away from his murderous wish. Here might Jonathan have identified himself with David, shared in his reproach and rejection, and afterward in his glory when he took the throne of Israel, but he was not prepared for this. He loved David as his own soul, but his position as the king's son was not so easily given up.

Moses could give up the court of Egypt for the people of God; and Jonathan must have felt that his duty was to leave his wicked father's home to be associated with the one who honored and lived for God; but he may have excused himself with the thought that he could do more good by staying in the king's court, than in going to share David's reproach.

In the Epistle to the Hebrews, believers had to be urged to "go forth" unto Jesus "without the camp, bearing His reproach" (chapter 13, verses 13, 14), and the same word, in a slightly different sense for the day we live in, is applicable to our own times (see Matt. 18:20).

Saul hearkened to the voice of Jonathan (verse 6), but it was only for a time; let David again be held in honor, be praised, and the servant of Satan (which Saul was) is aroused by his master (verse 10). David had to escape for his life, and he went to the aged Samuel where Saul sent to kill him, and God interfered again.

The latter part of the chapter shows again how the Spirit of God could come upon even wicked men, upon the messengers of Saul, and Saul himself when bent on the murder of God's anointed. This was entirely different from the New Testament activities of the Holy Spirit, and not at all to be confused with His indwelling the one who believes in Jesus.

But the question is, do you believe in Jesus? Now is the accepted time!

Messages of God’s Love 8/1/1926

A Gift Refused

THE young man who is the subject of our story had become estranged from his parents, and had been away from home for many months. In this time, they had heard nothing from him, but had learned where he was. They loved him still, and longed for the time to come when he might be reconciled to them.

His mother cherished one hope upon which her heart hung. His birthday was near at hand, and she resolved to send him a handsome gift, believing that this would touch his heart, and prove what was their feelings toward him.

So the gift was sent, but what was their disappointment some days later when the gift was returned. He had packed it up and sent it back to them without a word of thanks.

What a hard heart this young man must have had, you say, which was indeed the truth. We are sure you think that you would not be guilty of such ungrateful conduct toward any earthly friend; when a gift is offered, we accept it not alone for its own value, but to show our appreciation of the kindly feelings that prompted it.

This reminds us of a greater gift and a greater Giver—God. And what was His Gift? It was His best and dearest possession,—His beloved Son. It was our great need that made this wondrous Gift necessary. He saw that we must otherwise be lost because of sin, under which all had fallen. So in God's great love and pity He sent Jesus, who by His death on the cross became a Saviour to all who will receive Him.

Let us ask our young reader if this Saviour is his? We hope he can say "Yes" to this question. We hope he is convinced of his need of a Saviour, and especially that he is not insensible to the love that gave Him to die in his stead.

What a dreadful thing it would be to refuse such a gift as this! Would it not be much worse than the young man of our story? We are sure the reader will not fail to see this.

Every blessing that God offers to mankind is bound up in the Lord Jesus Christ, and to refuse Him is to forfeit all, and to incur the disfavor of God in this life and in that which is to come. What could be a greater offence than that of refusing the gift of His love; or what could be a greater loss to the individual?

On the other hand, how happy for him who believes the love of God, and simply accepts His gift, thus by faith making the Saviour his own. This simplicity has marked the faithful of all ages, and it pleases God more than anything else. It is upon such that heaven's blessing is bestowed, and in which his heart will rejoice now and through eternal ages.

Jesus did all the work. His blood alone avails to put away sin. No work or fitness is required; only believe, and God's great salvation is yours.

"He that believeth on the Son bath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on Him." John 3:36.

Messages of God’s Love 8/1/1926

Power of Prayer

A FEW godly fishermen met together in a humble cottage in a village of Scotland to pray that God would send to their village showers of blessing, such as they had heard of in the neighboring villages along the coast, where, through earnest preaching of the gospel hundreds had been saved.

They entered that humble building with its tiled roof, to meet with the eternal God, the Hearer of prayer. Kneeling in a row on the cold mud floor, they poured out their hearts in earnest prayer to God. In that rude cottage they continued for hours to pray that God would save sinners and send a revival among them.

On the other side of the brick wall was a fisherman's house, and as the men continued praying, the eldest son of that family, who stood listening to their prayers, was suddenly seized with terror, and cried out,

"I'm lost, I'm lost."

He was afraid to go out to sea, and asked one of the praying men to come into his father's house. Instead of one, they all entered, and began in their own simple way to tell what great things the Lord had done for them. Some fisherwomen who sat at the door baiting the lines, heard the sound of singing, and, led by curiosity, went in to hear. They were astonished to find the young fisherman in the midst of the circle, singing with all his might along with the others,

"His work's reviving all around, That's the news! That's the news! And many have redemption found, That's the news! That's the news!"

For hours the fishermen continued to read the Word, to tell them of Jesus, and to pray for them, and all four of the women were brought into the light and joy of God's salvation.

From the small beginning of a prayer meeting in a rude cottage, where half a dozen godly men met to cry to God, a great revival grew and hundreds there, and in neighboring places were brought to Christ.

"And the hand of the Lord was with them: and a great number believed, and turned unto the Lord." Acts 11:21.

Hark! the voice of Jesus calling—

"Come, ye children, come to Me:

I have rest and peace to offer,

Rest, dear children, now for thee.

Yes; though high in heavenly glory,

Still the Saviour calls to thee:

Faith can hear His gracious accents—

"Come, dear children, come to Me."

Messages of God’s Love 8/1/1926

An Afternoon in the Meadow

IT is now holiday time, dear children, and some of you no doubt are spending your vacation in the country; what a rest for mind and body!

I am sure, dear ones, you who are thus privileged, appreciate it very much, and some of you may be in the meadow caring for the cows and wee calves. They are God's creatures, and He takes note of boys and girls who are kind to them. He also has provided restful spots, green meadows, and brooks by which they are fed, refreshed, and nourished.

The well fed cattle in our picture are enjoying the comfort of the shade, and the refreshing breezes from the water. We are touched, as we think of God's provision for His dumb creatures, who have no souls to save. But, my dear readers, greater love is going out to you.

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

You have a never dying soul. Have you ever asked yourself, where will my soul be, if called to die; or if the Lord should come? This is a most important question, and should be answered between God and yourself at once.

"Choose you this day whom ye will serve." Joshua 24:15. The Lord Jesus may come during your holiday season.

"Be ye also ready." Matt. 24:44.

"The coming of the Lord draweth nigh." Jas. 5 .8.

"WHILE THEY WENT TO BUY, THE BRIDEGROOM CAME: AND THEY THAT WERE READY WENT IN WITH HIM TO THE MARRIAGE: AND THE DOOR WAS SHUT." Matt. 25:10.

Messages of God’s Love 8/8/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 20

Pursued by Saul to the very side of Samuel the prophet, David began to feel yet more deeply the rejection that was to be his as long as Saul lived.

The would-be murderer who sat on the throne of Israel had seemingly lost all respect for the servant of God since he could follow into Samuel's presence with intent to murder him who was the God-appointed king and the victor over the powerful giant Goliath. There Saul was made to acknowledge a power greater than that, of Satan whom he served, but there was no change in his heart. In New Testament days another king of Israel tried his best to kill the chosen One of God (Matt. 2:1-8, 13-16).

We may notice that David remains faithful to the king; he would have served Saul to the day of the latter's death, had he been permitted; he plans for no revenge, nor does he utter (as far as Scripture records) a word in anger against the man who so entirely without cause hated him. In all these respects David is a picture or type of Jesus; the One truly meek and lowly in heart (Matt. 11:29) Who would not strive nor cry (Matt. 12:19), Who loved His enemies and did good to them that hated Him (Luke 6:27), and Who came not to destroy men's lives but to save them, (Luke 9:55, 56).

David, though rejected by the willful king, finds some present consolation in Jonathan, who as we have seen, pictures the believing remnant of Israel. Jonathan could not believe that his father would kill David, but though he soon found out that the opposite was true, he preferred the position his natural birth gave him, to sharing the present rejection of the one whom lie recognized as the future king. This is evident from verse 13, as well as from Jonathan's later conduct, for henceforth, with one exception, David and Jonathan are parted for life.

Very touching are the incidents of this chapter, penned for us by the Holy Spirit. Jonathan was deeply attached to David, and David to Jonathan, but what consolation might have been David's had Jonathan but "esteemed the reproach" of David at its true value! And how great was Jonathan's loss? Eternity will tell.

Christian reader, what of the rejection of 'David's Lord today? Are you willing to share it, to keep His word and not deny His name (Rev. 3:8); or does the world's favor claim you? Many are the warnings and admonitions of Scripture in view of our times and for ourselves. (See 1 John 2:15-17; Gal. 6:7-10; 2 Cor. 6:14-18; 2 Tim. 2:15, 19-22).

Christless soul, this Jesus, Son of God and Saviour of sinners, is the stone which was set at naught of the builders and has become the head of the corner; "neither is there salvation in any other, for there is none other name under heaven, given among men, whereby we must be saved" Acts:11, 12. "Through this man, (whom David faintly foreshadowed), is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins, and by Him all that believe are justified from all things". Acts 13:38-41.

Messages of God’s Love 8/8/1926

They All Slumbered and Slept

(Read Matt. 25:1-14)

HAVE you ever walked through the streets of a great city during the silent hours of the night, when the inhabitants are slumbering in their homes? What a death-like stillness pervades the place! The hollow sound of your own footstep, as you hurry along, seems to frighten you, and you almost feel inclined to hold your breath. The lights are all extinguished, and the inmates of those houses are fast asleep.

A Christian man, so circumstanced one night, took his stand at the end of a long street, and, with all the strength of his powerful voice, repeated the words, "AT MIDNIGHT THERE WAS A CRY MADE, BEHOLD, THE BRIDE-GROOM COMETH."

The quiet that followed this sudden burst upon the silence of the midnight air seemed almost more death-like in its stillness than before. But now lights began to appear behind the tightly-drawn curtains.

Again the clear voice rang- out the strange and solemn words:— "AT MIDNIGHT THERE WAS A CRY MADE, BEHOLD. THE BRIDEGROOM COMETH:"

By this time blinds were pulled up, curtains drawn aside, and windows thrown up, and as our friend moved on, and the inmates returned again to their beds, may we not hope that it was with serious thoughts awakened in their hearts? We may meet in heaven above some who were aroused from their soul-slumber by the passing word of warning.

Reader, "The coming of the Lord draweth nigh!" Are you ready? At any moment Jesus, the Church's Bridegroom, may descend from heaven with a shout, and translate His bride to glory. Would you be caught up or left behind?

In the passage before us, the wise virgins represent the true Christians; while the foolish are the mere professors of Christendom. The cry rings out, and the volume of sound increases, as each fresh voice takes it up, then "all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps."

The foolish now begin to understand the gravity of their position. "GIVE US OF YOUR OIL," they say, as they behold with alarm the smouldering embers of their oil-less wicks. But no, this cannot be; for salvation is an individual and personal matter. They now begin to hasten themselves, and with redoubled energies seek to buy, by their own efforts, that which can alone be had as a free gift on the principle of faith.

While thus engaged the Bridegroom came, and "THEY THAT WERE READY went in." Mark these words, reader. Not they that were getting ready, or they that hoped to be ready, but "they that WERE ready." Reader, are you ready? For in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, Jesus will return. THEN THE DOOR WILL BE SHUT. It will be too late then to knock at the door; for when once that door is shut, it will be shut for ever.

But perhaps you say, I desire to be ready, what must I do? Come as a poor, lost, guilty, hell-deserving sinner to the Lord Jesus Christ, Who has died for sinners, and risen again.

"Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved." Acts 16:31. His precious blood alone it is that "cleanseth us from all sin."

"Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour." Matt. 25:13.

Messages of God’s Love 8/8/1926

That's For Me

I HAD been in deep anxiety about my soul, for I saw I was a sinner in need of a Saviour. I went down to the beach to have a quiet time, hoping I might have an hour or two to read and think, and be away from the bustle of life. I took my Testament and a little book that had been given to me, and sat down to read. I had read only a short time, when the words, "Christ died for the ungodly" (Rom. 5:6), caught my eye.

Christ died for me, and I accepted Him as my Saviour; and I have praised Him ever since for saving a sinner like me.

I often visit that same spot, but never without praising God for the grace that met me there that day so long ago, and pardoned all my sins. That was the best and happiest day of my life, for by faith in Christ Jesus I was made a child of God.

"Ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus." Gal. 3:26.

Messages of God’s Love 8/8/1926

Become Fishers of Men!

HOW often have the children in Sunday-school promised to do their best to bring others with them, yet how easily the promise was forgotten when there was little real intention to fulfill it. Notice now what a Sunday-school teacher once told his children:—

Many years ago, a boy named John, saw on his way to Sunday-school, a number of ragged boys of his own age, playing in the street. He begged them to come to Sunday-school with him. But only one agreed to do so; a boy without hat or coat. When they arrived at the door, and the boy saw how all the children inside were well dressed, he wanted to run away again, saying:

"I won't go in there, I haven't even a coat on!"

"Here is my coat," said John, who did not like to loose his game, and quickly pulling off his coat, he helped the other put it on. So both of them went in.

After pausing a little while, the teacher added:

"I know that incident very well, for I was that boy who once had no coat; and Dr. John Paton, that famous missionary of the New Hebrides, of whom you surely have heard before, was the one who gave me his!"

In this way that great soul winner, who in later years caught so many people from heathendom with the net of the gospel of the grace of God in Christ Jesus, began even as a boy to lead souls to the Lord Jesus. He sought out such in his immediate neighborhood who knew nothing of the Lord.

The Lord Jesus said: "Come ye after Me, and I will make you to become fishers of men." Mark 1:17.

Messages of God’s Love 8/8/1926

Little Children Come to Jesus

Little children, come to Jesus,

He is ready to receive;

He is ready, too, to pardon

All who in His name believe.

When the prodigal confesses

All his sins 'gainst God and man,

Then the father gladly gives him

All the gifts of love He can.

Glad is he to have his father

Give him robe, and ring and shoes;

Glad to have a son's blest portion,—

All the father's love could choose.

But how glad his aged father

Is, to manifest his love,

To the one so undeserving

Ah, how much like Him above!

God, to show His love to sinners

Gave His only Son to die,

Made them heirs with -Him forever,

Sharers of His home on high.

Come to Jesus, now, dear children,

Let not one more day go by;

Then when Jesus comes from heaven.

He will take you up on high.

Then forever in His presence.

You will in His love rejoice;

Find in Him your happy portion,

Since on earth you've heard His voice.

Messages of God’s Love 8/8/1926

Looking for Treasures

FROM our picture it looks as though mother or father had brought home something very interesting. See the children's happy faces as they peep under the cover over the little cage or basket.

Perhaps there are some little baby chicks there. We can't see, so we can't be sure. Anyway, the children are much pleased. They have found a treasure.

Dear reader, this is only one of many, many earthly treasures. Some of you have dolls, and wagons and toys of different kinds. Some of you have pet dogs and kittens, rabbits and birds which you treasure very dearly.

Some older people have jewelry, houses, farms, cattle and money – all earthly treasures.

But there are heavenly treasures also, and the heavenly are more valuable and more important for they are everlasting. Nothing can break them nor spoil them nor steal them. They cannot get sick and die.

Do you know where these heavenly treasures can be found?

"Search the Scriptures". John 5:39.

If you will read Col. 2:2,3, you will see that these treasures are hid in Christ, and it is the Scriptures that tell us about Christ and the wonderful treasures that are hid in Him. One of these treasures is divine wisdom. Psa. 119:105 says,

"Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." By reading God's Word we can find out what things will please Him, and what things will displease Him. We shall find out what we should do and what we should not do.

The 11TH verse of the same Psalm says, "Thy Word have I hid in mine heart, that 1 might not sin against Thee."

"Happy is the man that findeth wisdom. She is more precious than rubies." Prov. 3:13, 15.

This is just one of the many treasures hid in Christ. I hope you will all read your Bibles and find out some more of them.

"IF YE THEN BE RISEN WITH CHRIST, SEEK THOSE THINGS WHICH ARE ABOVE, WHERE CHRIST SITTETH ON THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD." Co1.3:1.

Messages of God’s Love 8/15/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 21

David is now alone, for Jonathan who really loved him, has chosen the place of present ease and comfort, rather than of suffering with the rejected one. The Lord could say to His disciples,

"Behold the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave Me alone, and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with. Me," John 16:32, and when seized by Judas and his band in the garden of Gethsemane He said,

"If therefore ye seek Me, let these go their way."

But in our chapter David fails altogether of being an advance picture of Jesus. He misrepresents himself to the priest in order to get food and a sword, and presently seeking shelter with a king of the Philistines, resorts to the pretense of insanity, fearing for his life. Expressive of this time are Psalms 34 and 56.

Though David sadly failed here, utterly discouraged as he was, God had not forsaken him, and if we turn to Matthew 12:3, 4, we shall find the Lord Jesus referring in no disapproval td the incident of the priest's giving the rejected one the holy bread to eat. When God and the testimony He gives (in Samuel as well as David, here; in Christ in the Gospel of Matthew) are rejected, the ordinances lose their power, their meaning. The important thing was to give David, the true king, food; he was of more value to God than the bread of the tabernacle. Everything centered now in God's sight, in the rejection of His anointed.

With the food so obtained, and the sword of Goliath, David went to Achish, king of Gath of the Philistines for protection. But he is recognized; fear deepens in his breast, and he professes to be insane in order to save his life, fearing that the Philistines will kill him.

Poor David! He was indeed deeply tried. It was one thing to be used of God in overcoming the wicked one, typified by Goliath of Gath; it was quite a different thing to be the causeless object of the malignity of the king, while himself designed by God to occupy the throne. 'David should not have gone among the Philistines, the enemies of God, and he must leave them, to be wholly cast on God, the true resource of those that are His by faith.

Messages of God’s Love 8/15/1926

The Miner Boy's Assurance

HE men and boys who work under ground in the deep, dark coal-pits have a dangerous occupation, and in the days before the Davy lamp came into use, there were many deaths through explosions.

My first experience in a colliery district, I shall never forget. During the early hours of a bright morning, a loud report coming from the direction of the pit. told there had been a disaster, and in a few minutes, hundreds of women and children were hurrying toward the spot, weeping, for well they knew many of their loved ones would be entombed far beneath the surface in the deep mine, and so it proved to be, for in less than a week, over a hundred men and boys were buried in the little church yard, whose bodies had been brought up from that death trap in which they had been caught, and in a moment ushered into eternity.

Among those who perished in that disaster were a father and son, both happy Christians, who in the days of their life had borne bright testimony to the saving power of the Name of Jesus, in whom they believed, and in whom they had life everlasting—a life that can never be killed, nor of which its possessor can be robbed by any mishap whatever.

Very sweetly and simply have I heard that Christian collier and his son tell the story of the Cross, and only a few nights before the disaster in the coal pit, which took from them their natural lives, I heard them sing in the joy of their hearts,

"O, what can equal joy Divine,

Or what can sweeter be

Than knowing that the soul is safe

For all eternity!

Safe in the Lord, without a doubt,

By virtue of the blood;

For nothing can destroy the life

That's hid with Christ in God."

How good it was for them that they had settled the great matter of their personal salvation with God, before that awful hour when sudden destruction came like a flood into the pit, from whence there was no escape, hurrying them into eternity!

In a village not far from the scene of the coal pit disaster, there lived two young miners, whom I knew well in those days. They had lost their father in that explosion in the pit, and for years after, there was a sad look on their faces, as they thought of the dangers of their work. In process of time, during some meetings held in the street in which they lived with their widowed mother, they were both awakened by the Spirit of God to know their need of a Saviour, and of the danger of meeting God out of Christ, and in their sins.

The boys were so anxious about their souls, that for several days they could not go to their work in the pit. Then, in an evening hour, sitting by the fire side, while their mother read to them the "texts" their father used to tell them of which were the means of leading him to the Saviour, first one, then another, yielded himself to Christ, and were instantly and brightly saved, going out that very night, and confessing Christ as their Saviour and Lord, among companions in the street.

From that day on both became decided and devoted followers of the Lord Jesus.

Early next morning, both were a stir, and in the darkness of the early morn, on their way to the pit, singing as they walked along the path. Some of their fellow-workers heard the sound, and wondered who could be singing so early and so loudly. Listening for a moment, they heard on that early morning,

"There is no condemnation.

There is no hell forme

The judgment and the fire

Mine eyes shall never see.

For me sin has no sentence,

For me death has no sting,

Because the Lord who loves me,

Will shield me with His wing."

One said, "If we are quickly called, we are ready now to go, since we are in Christ." Is the reader in this happy security?

"Dost thou believe on the Son of God?" John 9:35.

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

"Be it known unto you. that through this Alan is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins: and by Him all that believe are justified from all things." Acts 13:38, 39.

Messages of God’s Love 8/15/1926

The Shepherd Hears the Cry of His Little Lamb

A SERVANT of the Lord relates that in Russia he once met a young man, while walking on a lonely mountain path, whose outward appearance showed him to be a shepherd. His face wore a troubled anxious look.

"Whither bound so late?"

"My little lamb has gone astray, and I am seeking it."

They walked the lonely path together quite silently, for the young shepherd seemed constantly listening for something: Never for a moment did lie seem to forget his little lamb.

Suddenly lie gave a loud call, which sounded like joy, then threw himself down with his ear flat on the ground. Quickly the young shepherd jumped up, his noble face lit up with joy.

"I heard it!" he cried, and rushed forward.

Although the faint cry of the strayed lamb was too weak for the servant of the Lord to hear, yet it did not escape the ear of the shepherd. He heard the low cry of distress, and he soon found his straying lamb.

So, clear children, the Lord Jesus, the Good Shepherd, listens for your voice to call to Him. He wants to lead you out of the pit of sin, and from the path that leads astray, on to the right way and carry you to His Father's house. Upon His path is peace, and at the end of it eternal glory.

He wants to hear you own that you are a lost sinner and He will surely save you.

He is the only Saviour.

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

"He that believeth on the Son bath everlasting life." John 3:36.

Messages of God’s Love 8/15/1926

Jesus is Coming

O, children, if Jesus

Should come now this moment.

Would you with the saved ones

Rise tip in the air?

What weeping and wailing,

Should you not be taken,

But shut out in darkness.

In endless despair.

Then flee now to Jesus,

While still He is waiting:

He loves you, He wants you,

He has died on the tree.

His blood has been shed:

The door is still open,

A free, full salvation

He offers to thee.

Then wait not! delay not!

For time is quickly passing

This moment believe Him,

And then you may know,

"Though Your sins he as scarlet,"

Or crimson's red glow.

The shed blood will make them

"As white as the snow,"

Messages of God’s Love 8/15/1926

The Lamb of God

LITTLE reader, is there any other creature that turns your thoughts as quickly to the Lord Jesus as a lamb does? Our Saviour is spoken of as the Lamb of God.

"Behold the Lamb of God which taketh away the sin of the world." John 1:29.

In olden times the Jews offered lambs as sacrifices for sins. But these sacrifices did not cleanse them from sin, so, they had to keep on offering them day after day, and year after year, whenever they sinned, because it was God's command.

When Jesus was in this world, He was offered a sacrifice for sins, once for all.

This sacrifice was a perfect one, and satisfied God because it atoned for sin. Then the lambs did not have to be offered any more.

"THIS MAN, AFTER HE HAD OFFERED ONE SACRIFICE FOR SINS, FOREVER SAT DOWN ON THE RIGHT HAND OF GOD." Heb. 10:12.

"Tor by one offering He hath perfected forever them that are sanctified." Heb. 10:14.

How peaceful and gentle these clear sheep and lambs look! The girls are holding the little baby lamb under the umbrella so it won't get wet and cold.

Jesus calls those who love Him, His sheep and lambs, and just as the shepherd carries the young and tender lambs, and protects them from harm, so Jesus watches you, His lamb, very carefully.

Messages of God’s Love 8/22/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 22

LEAVING the Philistines to whom he should never have gone, David went to the cave Adullam, the name of which means, "resting place." There God graciously gave him rest, and now that he was separated from Saul and his system of things, many came to be identified with him in the cave. His brethren who had once despised him, went down there to him, and everyone in distress, and all in debt, and all the discontented gathered themselves to him. Their distress was relieved; their debts no longer oppressed them; their discontentment ceased. We hear of none left out; "everyone", is the term used of all three classes in the second verse,—all who were not at rest in their state went to David.

How this pictures for us Jesus and what His grace does for the confessed sinner who comes to Him. Drawn to Him, when here upon earth, were the needy ones of all classes and conditions, and invariably when faith drew them, their burden of sin was removed.

In Matthew 9:10 we read that "many publicans and sinners came and sat down with Him and His disciples;" and in Luke 15:2 The proud Pharisees and scribes murmuring said, "This man receiveth sinners, and eateth with them."

All that came to Him then were received; none were turned away, and He is still "receiving sinners" and "eating with them."

Have you come to Jesus, dear reader, y o u who are reading these lines? Then He would have you "gathered" to Himself (verse 2, and Matt. 18:20), distress of soul gone, in a happy realization that your immense debt has been forgiven when you had nothing to pay (Luke 7:41-50), and contented to abide with Him.

The Holy Spirit now is seeking to gather the loved ones of God to meet around His Son by faith. It is a place where the reproach of Christ (Heb. 11:26) is found, but the unseen though real company of Himself is more than compensation for those who are gathered to Himself alone.

If in this part of David's history we have a picture of what God is now doing for His Son in the time of His rejection here, we may gather that David's sending his parents away (verses 3, 4) expresses in a figure what has happened to Israel, (See Rom. chapters 9, 10, 11). They will be brought back when the present age is ended.

Verse 5 shows us a prophet with David, and the close of the chapter adds the priest, Abiathar, the only remaining one of the house of priests. In Christ the three offices of prophet, priest and king are combined. (See Acts 3:22; Heb. 4:14-16; Matt. 2:2 and many other passages, including Luke 19:12-15).

David may not yet set up the kingdom for which he had been appointed of God, even in the cave Adullam. Through long years he must prove in his own experience the utter rejection of himself by the man who wrongfully held the authority over his people, and be content with a little flock of devoted ones. At verse 6 we are transferred to this false king's court, to hear his thoughts, and view his servants standing about him. Leader of the servants is Doeg the Edomite, one of the children of Esau who became implacable enemies of Israel. (See their destruction prophesied in Ezekiel 35 and Obadiah's short prophecy). He is the fit instrument of Saul (and viewing the cause of Satan) for the murder of the priestly family, and every living thing in the city where they lived, except Abiathar, who escaped to David.

The Herod of Matt. 2:16 was an Fdomite, and his murder of the little ones in and around Bethlehem was equally moved by the devil.

Abiathar finds safety with David whose word was, "Abide thou with me, fear not for he that seeketh my life, seeketh thy life; but with me thou shalt be in safeguard." Those who trust in Jesus have His precious assurance.

"I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any pluck them out of My hand. My Father, which gave them Me, is greater than all; and no man (no one) is able to pluck them out of My Father's hand. I and My Father are one."

"Happy, they who trust in Jesus; Sweet their portion is, and sure."

Messages of God’s Love 8/22/1926

Raugi, The Maori Chief

THE glad tidings of salvation, when first carried to the Maoris in New Zealand, was often listened to by circles of wondering savages, with tatooed faces, standing around the missionary with their spears stuck into the ground. They were a war-like people, yet the Gospel of the grace of God wrought its wonders among them.

One wonderful case of conversion to God was that of Raugi, a war chief, whose name and cruel deeds were known for many miles around. When the servants of Christ set foot on his territory, he gave them a hearty welcome, and earnestly listened to the message of salvation. From the first day it was evident that God was dealing with this benighted heathen man, and wherever the preaching was, Raugi was a listener. When asked one day what his thoughts were on the subject, he boldly replied,

"My belief is in the great God, and in Jesus Christ. I have nothing to give Him, only I believe He is the true God, and I trust in Jesus Christ His Son.

Not only did Raugi thus confess the Lord Jesus, but his life and conduct showed that he had been truly converted. On the Lord's day he hoisted a small red flag above his tent, which was a sign to the people of his tribe that no work was to be done, but that they were to assemble and hear the Word of God.

After a few years of steady testimony for Christ, Raugi's former life of war and blood shed began to tell upon him. As his end drew near he said,

"When I die I shall leave this flesh and these bones here, and my soul shall go to heaven." And then the old warrior, saved and changed into a witness for Christ, joined the company of the redeemed, who wait with Christ the fair morning of resurrection.

"Safe in the Lord, without a doubt.

By virtue of the blood;

For nothing can destroy the life

That's hid with Christ in God."

Messages of God’s Love 8/22/1926

The Golden Curl

WHEN I was a little child, just four years old, I had curly locks, which in sunshine and in shower hung in profusion over my head. My father was cutting a log of wood one day near the house, and I was with him. I stood by his side watching the strokes of the axe, and picking up splinters as they fell around my feet. I stooped to pick up one, and in the act of picking it up, I stumbled forward and fell. My head lighted on the log of wood just as my father's axe was uplifted to strike. It was too late to stop the blow. I screamed with terror, and my father fell to the ground unconscious. He thought he had killed his child.

We soon recovered; I from my fall, and he from his terror. He caught me up in his arms, and looked at me from head to foot, expecting to find some fatal wound, but not a scar or scratch was there.

He kneeled down on the grass with me beside him, and thanked the Lord with tears of joy, for the merciful and miraculous deliverance that God had wrought.

As we rose, he turned to look at the log of wood, and there lay a curl of my hair, which had been cut off by the stroke of the axe. With renewed thanks to God upon his lips, he took up the curl, then raised me in his arms, and carried me home rejoicing. He kept that lock of hair as a memorial of God's love and care, and on his dying pillow he gave it to me.

tells me of a God of love; my father's God and mine. It bids me trust in Him with all my heart, and as I look on it, time after time, it stills my fears, and strengthens my faith in that faithful God.

My dear boys and girls; this touching story of childhood's days has its lessons for you as well as it had for me. Do you wonder that my curl of golden hair is prized? It tells of the love and care of God in delivering from death. But the Cross of Calvary manifests the love of God with greater power. There, the only Son of God, whom He dearly loved, died on a cross for His enemies, to save them from the righteous punishment of their sins. He spared not His Son. Was there ever love like His? Trust Him in your early days. Receive Him as your Saviour. He will save and befriend you for ever.

"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 8/22/1926

Where God Is

I WILL give you a shilling, Tommy, if you will tell me where God is," said an infidel to a little boy, whose godly mother had taught him the truths of God's Word.

"And I will give you the shilling back," said Tommy, "if you will tell me where God is not."

The infidel had no answer to give.

"The eyes of the Lord are in every place, beholding the evil and the good." Mind that, boys and girls. At home, in school, at work, at play,

"Thou God seest me."

Messages of God’s Love 8/22/1926

O, Children Come To Jesus

O, children, come to Jesus,

Come now, this very hour,

For Jesus waits to save you

From sin and Satan's power.

He left His home in Glory.

And died on Calv'ry's cross.

O! wondrous is the story

Of Jesus' shame and loss.

No friend you'll find like Jesus,

No lover of your soul,

Though earnestly you seek one,

And search from pole to pole.

Now angel choirs are swelling

The praise of God's dear Son,

And ransomed lips are telling

What grace divine has done.

Then won't you come to Jesus.

And join the song of praise?

And go to dwell with Jesus

Through everlasting days?

And when at home with Jesus,

Your deep delight will he

To praise the name of Jesus

Through all eternity.

Messages of God’s Love 8/22/1926

Mount of Olives

DEAR little reader, we have today, a picture of the Mount of Olives, which is in the land of Palestine, far away across the Mediterranean Sea.

We have scriptures in each of the Gospels,—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John,—which tell us how Jesus was accustomed to go to this place—the Mount of Olives.

He often talked there with His disciples, and He spent many, many hours there, praying, after the people had gone home and were in bed.

Luke 6:12 Says that Jesus went out into a mountain to pray, and continued all night in prayer to God. Probably this was the Mount of Olives.

Often things happened to make the Lord Jesus feel sorrowful, for He saw suffering and wickedness all about Him. So, when the day was over, He was glad to go to the quiet mountain, and tell His Father all about it.

And He wants us too, to pray and tell Him all our joys, and all our sorrows and troubles.

"Pray without ceasing." 1 Thess. 5:17.

In the front of our picture, at the foot of the Mount of Olives, is a place called the Garden of Gethsemane. Jesus was there the night before He was crucified.

Again He was praying and talking to God, His Father about the cruel death on the cross, and the load of our sins which He was about to bear.

Dear children, He loved you so much that He was willing to go through all that suffering that you might be saved—that you might not have to be punished for your sins.

Jesus asked His disciples to watch with Him while He prayed, but they were very tired and went to sleep. Then Jesus said to them,

"WATCH AND PRAY, THAT YE ENTER NOT INTO TEMPTATION." Matt. 26:41.

We need to be watching all the time, and keeping our eyes fixed on Jesus. If we don't, we will get away from Him, and get into trouble.

We need to pray continually for help, for we cannot do the things that please the Lord unless we have His help every day and every hour.

Messages of God’s Love 8/29/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 23

Keilah was a border town, near to the country occupied by the Philistines, and these enemies were robbing the people. 'David, in communion with God, was directed to go and drive them away; his force was small (about four hundred men, in chapter 22:2), and they were already deeply conscious of their weakness (verse 3); how could they fight with any other outcome than defeat, against the armies of the Philistines? The answer given to faith and dependence was,

"Arise, go down. to Keilah; for I will deliver the Philistines into thine hand."

The word of God was enough for David, who brought away the enemy's cattle, beside smiting them with a great slaughter. So the people of Keilah were saved out of the Philistine's hands.

One purpose alone seems to have animated Saul: David must be destroyed, and it is to be noted that the people were subject to Saul, ready to do his will. Again David is taught of God not to trust in man, even under the best situation, for the people of Keilah who owed their deliverance to him, would give him up to Saul. With his followers, now numbering about six hundred (verse 13), David left Keilah for Ziph in the southeast of Judah, there to remain for a long time. Ziph means "refining place," and such it became to the sorely tried spirit of David. Saul sought him every day, but God delivered him not into his hand.

Jonathan came there to David, and encouraged him to wait upon God (verse 16), but this was the last time they met. Jonathan's love for David was not equal to the reproach, the present loss, which it would have cost to take his place with the rejected and hated one, and he went back to his house, after seeing, as a visitor, what he might have shared as a follower of the anointed one of God.

Alas! in this day of ours are many Jonathans who really love the Lord, but are not willing to give up worldly advantages for association with Him in His present rejection. (See Rev. 3:7-13).

The Ziphites, no better than the Keilahites, told Saul of David's presence among them. Saul's heart is again revealed (verses 21-23), and David is pursued to the hill of Hachilah ("drought"), on the south of Jeshimon ("desert") even to Maon ("habitation"), where he abode.

But God will not allow the enemy to do more than His own purpose permits, and when David and his men are almost captured (verse 26), Saul is recalled to fight the Philistines, and 'David finds security and refreshment in strong holds at En-gedi (fountain of Gad). God had purposes of richest blessing for His beloved servant, and in due time would manifest them; meanwhile he was to be in training of great, indeed eternal, value to his soul.

Messages of God’s Love 8/29/1926

Prayer

“Be careful for nothing hut in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God." Phil. 4:6.

Read the history of the good king Hezekiah, and you will see how the Lord helped him when he came to Him in prayer. (Isa. chapters 36 and 37). When he received that terrible letter from the king of Assyria, he went straight into the house of the Lord, that is, the temple, and spread it out before Him.

There is no temple now to go to, but God loves to hear His children tell Him in simplicity all they need. The Lord Jesus said,

"Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ve shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you." John 16:23.

God answers prayer, and honors the faith of even a very little child. 0, it is wonderful!

O, what joys we often forfeit!

O, what needless griefs we bear!

All because we do not carry

Everything to God in prayer.

Messages of God’s Love 8/29/1926

Thou God Seest Me. Gen. 16:13.

I HAD an experience a few days ago which I would like to relate:

A vegetable and fruit vender comes to my house quite frequently. He came a few days before the public school closed for the summer 'holidays, and on this day the children were passing out on their way home at noon. Three girls between nine and twelve years of age came along just as I left the vegetable wagon to go into my home. The fruit vender stood a few minutes to arrange his fruits, somewhat differently. After I went into the house I thought the man had made a, mistake in my change, and I went out to let him count it over again. The vender had said to these girls,

"Do not take anything from my wagon," as they had been whispering about taking some of his fruit. Just as I was turning around to go back to the house, I saw one of these girls take some of his fruit. I said to this girl,

"You are a little thief!" The three girls stood, looking confused and stupid for a minute, then collected themselves and started to sneer and laugh. I said, "Are you not ashamed of your selves, taking that which does not belong to you?"

God's eyes were upon them, as we have in our verse,

."Thou God seest me."

A lady was telling me a few days ago that she has some fine cherry trees in her yard. She caught some little boys and girls stealing them from her, and she said to them,

"Children, when you take anything that does not belong to you, without asking the consent of the one to whom it belongs, that is stealing." She asked them if they went to Sunday-school, and they said. "O, yes!"

She said, "I am glad you do, and dear children, you may go to Sunday-school, but unless you believe on the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Saviour, you cannot be saved. You know it was only through one sin that caused God to turn Adam out of the Garden of Eden.

"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."

"For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of One shall many be made righteous."

"That as sin bath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness, unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord." Rom. 5:12, 19, 21.

Dear children, it is only when we believe on the Lord Jesus Christ as our own personal Saviour that we have this eternal life.

"My sheep, hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me: and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand." John 10:27, 28.

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life." John 3:16.

Messages of God’s Love 8/29/1926

Little Minnie

A LITTLE company of young boys and girls were spending the day together in the country. A little girl named Minnie, who formed one of the company, overheard a cluster of girls speaking of their joy and peace in Christ, and of the certainty of being in heaven.

Little attention was being paid to the little girl, until she gave a great sob, and burst into tears. Her eldest sister took her on her knee, and said,

"What's the matter, Minnie, dear?" Sobbing bitterly, Minnie answered,

"I'm not saved, and I know that I cannot go to heaven with you until I am converted."

The girls were glad to see the Spirit of God working with one so young, and making known her sinful and lost condition to her tender conscience. They told her of the love of God, and of Jesus' death for sinners on the cross, and pointed her to Him who gives the weary rest. Her young heart was opened to receive Him as Her own and only Saviour. She bore a clear and bright testimony to the reality of her conversion to God, and God gave her a clear grasp of the truth.

The Lord, who saved Minnie at so early an age, can save you too, my dear young reader, and He will, if you trust Him. Then you will know and enjoy the happiness of being a lamb of the good Shepherd's flock.

"I am the Door: by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved." John 10:9.

Messages of God’s Love 8/29/1926

He Died for All

HE died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto Him which died. for them and rose again." 2 Cor. 5:1;').

"He died for all"—

Has died to save;

His life a ransom freely gave;

Bore man's mad hate, and to the grave

Sank low beneath God's judgment wave;

Peace He has made,

He died to save!

"He died for all"—

Has died for me;

Met all my need and misery;

Annulled my old, sad history;

Assured my future destiny;

O, bliss to see

He died for me!

"He died for all"—

Has died for you!

Endured sin's just and awful due;

Brought thus God's love and light to view;

From high now wafts the message true!

Your soul to woo—

He died for you!

"He died for all"—

The great the small;

But only saves from sin's dark thrall

Those who in faith before Him fall!

The rest His wrath shall soon appall.

Heed, then, the call—

"He died for all!"

Messages of God’s Love 8/29/1926

Bible Questions for September

Answers to Bible Questions for July
"The Children's Class"

"But I," etc. Matt. 10:15; 11:22; 11:24; 12:36.*

"Wherefore, if God so," etc. Matt. 6:30.

"Therefore be ye also," etc. " 24:44.

"But Jesus said, Suffer," etc. " 19:14.

"And the King shall," etc. " 25:40.

"And, lo, a voice from," etc. " 3:17.

"And Simon Peter," etc. " 16:16.
*Credit will be given for any one of these scriptures.

Bible Questions for September
"The Children's Class"

The Answers are to be found, in Luke

Write in full the verse containing the words, "God knoweth your hearts."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Dost not thou fear God?"

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Nothing is secret."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "That holy thing."

Write in full the verse containing the words. "The Christ of God."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "They forsook all.'

Write in full the verse containing the words. "Yet there is room,"

Answers to Bible Questions for July
"The Young People's Bible Class"

The Soul." Matt. 16:26.

"Come unto Me, and I," etc. " 11:28.

"The kingdom of God," etc. " 6:33.

"Seventy times seven." " 18:22.

"Once." " 3:17.

"Fear not ye: for I know," etc. " 28:5-7.

"The coming of the Lord." " 25:1-13.

Bible Questions for September
"The Young People's Bible Class."

The Answers are to be found in Luke

What verses would lead us to conclude that Luke and Acts were written by the same person?

In what main particular does the genealogy of Luke differ from that of Matthew?

What two things did the woman obtain, who annointed the Lord's feet?

What "things do the nations of the world seek after"?

Whom does our Lord tell us to invite to dinner or supper?

How does the sign for flight from Judea differ in Luke and Matthew?

How many of the Old Testament Scriptures contain "things concerning Himself"?

Messages of God’s Love 9/5/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 24

David is still the rejected one, object of the malignity of the then ruler who, but for God's forbearance, should have been displaced, and the throne of Israel given at once to the one chosen of God to occupy it. In this, and in David's general behavior, we are reminded of Him of whom he was a type,-Jesus, the God Man, whose every way and word were perfect.

We may notice too, that there were few who companied with David, who shared his rejection; and Saul seems to have had no lack of men to do his bidding. So was it in the history of our Lord as a man here below; then were the thoughts of many hearts revealed (Luke 2:35), as singly and in groups they come before us in the gospel narrative.

David was in the wilderness of En-gedi; the news came to King Saul, and he took three thousand chosen men out of all Israel and set out to kill him. He who was David's Son and David's Lord had to say when the hour of Satan's seeming triumph was reached, "Are ye come out as against a thief, with swords and staves for to take Me?" Matt. 26:55. David had done nothing against the king, and left his future with God.

Among the sheepfolds of En-gedi, not far from the Dead Sea and, about midway of its length, was a cave, and, not in the least suspecting that David and his followers were there, Saul entered. The exile's men whispered to him that now was the opportunity to lay hands on the man who stood between him and the throne for which he had been anointed. But they were far from quoting the word of God correctly, as David well knew. He would not harm the unworthy man who sought his life, but stole up behind him and cut off the skirt or wing of his outer garment. For this his conscience smote him presently (verse 6), and when Saul went out of the cave, David followed at a distance and called to him.

Saul was evidently astonished that David had not used the opportunity to do to him what he had so long tried to do to David. Such ways were beyond his understanding (the child of God is never understood by the world, when he acts according to the Word of God), and he confessed to David that he knew that he should surely be king after him. Fearing- that, though David assured him that he would not take his life, he might revenge himself because; of Saul's past on his children, he asked David to promise to not do so. David promised, and Saul and lie parted to meet but once again (chapter 26). The break between the
two was complete and final. But where was Jonathan?

Messages of God’s Love 9/5/1926

Little Freddie

IT was a long promise, that Freddy should be allowed to go to Sunday-school as soon as his sixth birthday was come. It was New-Year week, and the snow lay thick upon the ground. But what of that, to Sunday-school Freddy must go. So, well wrapped up in his overcoat, with his Testament and Text Book, Freddy set off by his brother's side, to School.

They had fully a mile to walk, in deep snow, from the country house where Freddy lived, to the village School-room. When they arrived, the first hymn was being sung, and Freddy thought it was grand. The words were—

"Around the throne of God in heaven,

Thousands of children stand,

Whose sins, through Christ, are all forgiven,

A holy, happy band,

Singing glory, glory, glory."

He was put into a class, and the teacher told them about the paschal lamb slain in Egypt, and how its blood was put upon the doors to shelter the firstborn children inside from, the sword; then about "The Lamb of God" dying on the Cross, that sinners might be saved from death and hell.

At the close, his teacher gave him a pretty Text Card, on which the words—

"The blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth us from all sin" were printed. He was told to learn the text during the week, and to be able to repeat it when he came the following Lord's Day.

Freddy went home, greatly delighted with what he had seen and heard, that first day at School, and it was found after many days, that some of the good seed that was dropped into his young heart that day, took root, never to be forgotten. All through the week, the cottage rang with the precious words,

"The blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth us from all sin," until Freddy could repeat them without a mistake. Not only so, but they became so familiar to him, that he kept thinking about them every day for long after. But Freddy did not know their meaning then, nor did he know how great a sinner he was, and how he needed the "blood of Jesus Christ" to cleanse him. It was some years after this, that Freddy came home from a Children's Meeting one evening, really anxious to be saved, convinced that he was a sinful boy, unfit to be in heaven. His first text, these glorious words learned on his first school-day, were brought to his memory; they had been there since the time they were sown, and Freddy trusted the precious blood, and was cleansed from all his sins, and made fit to be in heaven.

How he loved then to trace along the pages of his Bible, the various things the precious blood of Christ has done, and is doing, for all who believe on Jesus. On a page in his well-read Bible, you might read—

Sheltered by the Blood (Exo. 12:13). Cleansed by the Blood (1 John 1:7). Peace through the Blood (Col. 1:20). Made nigh by the Blood (Eph. 2:13). Victory through the Blood (Rev. 12:11).

Dear boys and girls, have you known, like this dear boy, the cleansing of the blood of Christ? Are you made clean from all your sins, and fit for heaven in "the precious blood of Christ"?

Messages of God’s Love 9/5/1926

Rain in the Wrong Place

WHAT are the children up to? All they are thinking about is their present pleasure, with no thought of the damage they are doing to the beautiful carpet, nor thinking either about the punishment that must surely come.

How much this is like people generally. They do not think what the result will be for time or eternity of all their wrong doings. Children and grown up people too, do wrong things, and others are made unhappy by them, and then the worst part is, we must all give account to God, as the Scripture says,

"AS I LIVE, SAITH THE LORD, EVERY KNEE SHALL BOW TO ME, AND EVERY TONGUE SHALL CONFESS TO GOD." Rom. 14:11. What a solemn thing it is when we think that all we do, we have yet to say to God about.

May you ever say, dear children, "Preserve me, O God: for in Thee do I put my trust." Psa. 16:1.

Messages of God’s Love 9/5/1926

Jesus Loves Me

Jesus loves me, loves me dearly,

In the cross His love I see;

Now I hear Him calling clearly,

"Come, come to Me."

Jesus calls me, O, so sweetly,

Though a little child I be;

Lord, I yield myself completely,

Now, now to Thee.

Jesus loves me, Jesus makes me

His own little lamb to be;

Never leaves me, nor forsakes me,

Kind, kind is He.

Jesus loves me, wondrous story,

Soon His lovely face I'll see,

Soon I'll sing in brightest glory,

He died for me.

Messages of God’s Love 9/5/1926

Feeding Time

HOW readily the chickens come to get their food. They know the one who feeds them, and the moment they see her coming, they all run to her. We do not wonder at that; indeed, if they did not, we would have good reason to think they were sick, or afraid of the one who was bringing their food.

God, who has made us, has given us food to eat, and we know we could not make the food ourselves; we are therefore dependent upon Him for all things, but I wonder if we, each one, are thankful to Him, and receive all as coming from His hand? How many there are who sit down to their meals, and never even think of giving God thanks. They act like the brute beasts who know not God.

"MAN SHALL NOT LIVE BY BREAD ALONE, BUT BY EVERY WORD THAT PROCEEDETH OUT OF THE MOUTH OF GOD." Matt. 4:4.

God therefore has given us His Word as food for our souls, and I ask you, dear reader, Do you delight to read the Word of God? Have you taken it with thanksgiving; or do you run away from it? The state of the soul is soon manifested when that test is brought. If we know the Lord Jesus as our Saviour, and we are going on with Him, we shall desire more and more to be over God's Word; but if not, there will be little or no desire for it, and we shall sooner or later, do something that will bring dishonor on the Lord's name.

May you seek to say with the Psalmist.

"Thy Word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee." Psa. 119:11.

Messages of God’s Love 9/12/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 25

The aged prophet Samuel died and after a national mourning, he was buried at Ramah. Perhaps fearing now that the last restraint was removed which might have held Saul back from pursuing him to death, David went beyond the ordinary boundaries of Canaan to the wilderness of Paran in the peninsula of Sinai. But he sent ten of his young men back to the region west of the Dead Sea where he had been much of the time since leaving Keilah (chapter 23:13), to call on the great Nabal, owner of three thousand sheep and a thousand goats, and a descendant of that outstanding man of faith, Caleb (Numbers 13 and 14; Joshua 14).

But faith is not inherited, and great possessions are often a snare, as Scripture abundantly shows,

"How hardly shall they that hare riches enter into the kingdom of God!" Mark 10:23.

The meanings of the names Maon (habitation), and Carmen (fruitful place), and Nabal (fool), are strongly suggestive of the parable of Luke 12:16-21. Self and time, and not God and eternity, were the rule of Nabars life. He "minded earthly things,"—the brief and pointed comment of the Holy Spirit in Philippians 3:19, and his end was destruction, as his god was himself and his desires. So Nabal answered the young men, "Who is David? and who is the son of Jesse? There be many servants now-a-days that break away every man from his master. . . . and sent them away empty handed.

Thereupon David failed; had he been permitted by God to do as he at once proposed, viz., to kill Nabal, he would have entirely departed from the typical character—typical of our blessed Lord as He trod this earth—in which we have with much consistency seen him. His followers were yet but six hundred,—the number given in .chapter 23:13; not many were attached to him in the time of his rejection, but in the time of his exaltation they were exalted too (see 2 Sam. 23).

Are you attached to Jesus in this time of His rejection, my reader? Be assured that the reproach of Christ is greater riches than the best this earth affords (Hebrews 11:26), and "What shall it profit a man if he gain the whole world and lose his own soul?" Mark 8:36.

Nabal was spared by the intervention of his wife Abigail, who went out to meet David and his men. Abigail saw in 'David the rightful occupant of the throne of Israel; faith had taught her that the Lord would make him a "sure house," because he fought the "battles of the Lord," and evil had not been found in him. "Let thine enemies," she said, "and they that seek evil to my lord, be as Nabal" (to be disregarded), and though Saul was seeking to bring about David's death, "the soul of my lord shall be bound in the bundle of life with the Lord thy God."

Abigail, as one has said, thought nothing of Saul, the rejected of God; Samuel was dead, and David was now everything to her. She took a much more humble place than Jonathan, one that answers in the present day to the attitude of the true Christian to his Lord; while Jonathan answers to the Jewish remnant. David received her homage in the character accredited to him by Abigail (verse 35),. and she returned to her husband. Nabal's end speedily came as God's judgment because of his treatment of His anointed, and the close of the chapter presents Abigail as the bride of David.

Messages of God’s Love 9/12/1926

Beware of Your First Step

I ONCE saw a little girl who was so honest, that she would not take a pin from her sister's cushion without permission. She had a cousin who was very different in this respect, for he would take what suited his convenience, without asking anyone.

One day this honest little girl went home from school with her cousin. No one was in the house when they arrived, though it was evident that some one must be near, for the baby was asleep in the cradle, and the doors were open.

"I am very hungry;" said Robert, "here is some nice looking cake, just taken out of the oven. Come, Mary, I will give you a piece."

"No, thank you," said Mary, "please don't cut it; it would be stealing."

"Stealing," replied Robert, with a laugh, "stealing to take a piece of cake when I am at home!"

"Yes," said Mary, "it is stealing, because you would not do it if your mother was here. You know that she would not allow you to cut a rich cake just from the oven."

"Then I shall do it before she comes," said Robert, and he buried a knife in the cake, which fell crumbling to the table.

His mother was very angry with him, and called him a wicked, mischievous boy: but she did not tell him that this was the first step towards being a thief. No matter how small a thing you take, a pin, a needle, a bit of thread, a lump of sugar: the smallest matter if taken slyly, is a theft. God regards this as stealing, dear children, and we would impress that little verse of scripture upon your heart,

"Thou God seest me." If this is always remembered, it will keep you from many a down-fall. Be honest, children, you need not fear being too much so, no matter who thinks you too particular. Honesty is a rare virtue, and an honest child will grow into an honest man or woman.

Thus was it with little Mary; her mother was a widow, and people called her poor, but it was soon found that she possessed a treasure in this trustworthy little girl; she was one of the Lord's little ones, and therefore under the shelter of His blood. As she grew up, Mary became so noted for her fidelity and tender conscience, that she was placed at last in a very responsible situation, which she filled with great credit to herself, and to the entire satisfaction of her employers. She was thus enabled to support her mother, in her old age, and educate her younger sister. She carried everything to the Lord in prayer, and thus He helped and sustained her.

Not so with poor Robert, who knew not the Lord. His habit of helping himself, was not long confined to the comparatively small matter of eating. He at length left his home with a large sum of money which he had taken from his father's desk, and has not since been heard of.

Dear boys and girls, "The way of transgressors is hard." Prov. 13:15. May this be a lesson to all. Remember, your heart is no better than poor Robert's.

"As in water face answereth to face, so the heart of man to man." Prov. 27:19.

"Fear the Lord, and depart from evil." Prov. 3:7.

Messages of God’s Love 9/12/1926

A Sunbeam for the Lord Jesus

FROM the children's ward in a hospital, even early in the morning little Minna could be heard singing her songs. Although she was suffering and quite weak, yet she could not be silent. She was the sunbeam of the house.

Minna was a happy child of God. She had Christian parents, and her brothers and sisters knew the Saviour, too. She herself had been led to the Lord Jesus by her Sunday-school teacher, who also had taught her the nice hymns, which she so loved to sing.

Suddenly this happy child became sick. After tenderly caring for her at home for almost a year; and seeing her condition did not improve, but rather grew worse, her parents took her to the hospital. The doctor ascertained spinal-meningitis, a very painful affliction. The child lay for months with her back in a hard cast, which allowed little moving about, yet she bore it patiently like a little lamb. Never did she utter any complaints. Joyfully would she ever sing her favorite hymns, which cheered so many of the patients in the next wards. To please Minna, she was sometimes carried into the adjoining wards, where she would then sing with a clear voice:—

"Jesus, my Lord would have me To be a bright sunbeam here, Which shines its light from day to day, Alone for Him, who is so dear."

While thus singing, in spite of her bodily weakness, she looked so happy, that it often deeply touched the hearts e the patients. Some of them, when feeling sad and depressed, would quietly go to the small children's ward, sit down next to her bed and listen to her singing.

In this way, the little sufferer has let her light shine brightly, because the Lord Jesus filled her heart with gladness to overflowing. His salvation and love were sufficient for her to forget all earthly suffering, and even to help those who did not yet know Him.

Do you, little friend, thus love the Saviour, and seek to live for Him, and to gladden His heart, and the hearts of others?

"He bath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God: many shall see it, and fear, and shall trust in the Lord. Blessed is that man that maketh the Lord His trust." Psa. 40:3, 4.

Messages of God’s Love 9/12/1926

If I Come To Jesus

If I come to Jesus

He will make me glad;

He will give me pleasure

When my heart is sad.

If I come to Jesus

Happy I shall be;

He is gently calling

Little ones like me.

If I come to Jesus

He will take my hand;

He will kindly lead me

To the better land.

Messages of God’s Love 9/12/1926

Fishing

WHAT a quiet secluded place this man has found to fish with a rod, He has chosen a position where the fish will not be able to see him, and no doubt, he will catch them fast. If they were to see him. they would be afraid, and would not bite on the bait that hung on his hook.

It is so with ourselves.—if we see that it is Satan that sets snares for us, we would not be deceived by them. The only way to know what are Satan's snares, is to be well acquainted with the Scriptures.

The Psalmist could say, "Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." Psa. 119:105.

True wisdom is to be found there, and if we go according to it. we shall not only find the Lord Jesus Christ as the Saviour for our souls for eternity. but it will cleanse us in our ways, and keep us from doing the wrong things that Satan puts before us.

" WHEREWITHAL SHALL A YOUNG MAN CLEANSE HIS WAY? BY TAKING HEED THERETO ACCORDING TO THY WORD." Psa. 119:9.

"By the word of Thy lips I have kept me from the paths of the destroyer." Psa. 17:4.

May each one of my readers prize the Word of God highly, and walk in the fear of the Lord, and thus be to God's glory, and be preserved from many sorrows that both Satan and your own evil heart would he sure to lead you into.

Messages of God’s Love 9/19/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Sameul 26

The Ziphites went next to Saul to tell him that David was now near their section, in the hill of Hachilah, to the west of En-gedi (chapter 24:1), and Saul's actions show that he was still quite ready to kill him. With his three thousand picked soldiers he went down to the hill to seek David. How entirely the latter was cast upon God! Only his few personal followers seem to have been faithful to him; the nation at large entirely was in the hands of Saul, the agent of Satan. In Psalm 11 we find David saying,

"In the Lord put I my trust; how say ye to my soul, Flee as a bird to your mountain? The Lord trieth the righteous, but the wicked and him that loveth violence His soul hateth." (Verse 1, 5).

David displayed no fear of Saul (verse 5) when he got the news of the king's whereabouts. He went to the place where Saul and his soldiers were encamped, and when night had fallen, he went into their camp with Abishai, one of David's thirty-seven bravest men (2 Samuel 23:18 and 39). Abishai proposed to kill Saul as he lay asleep, but \"David forbade him, unwilling to leave the place of entire dependence on God which he had learned to occupy. Happy the Christian Who leaves all his circumstances with God

This was the second time when, judging by outward things and the opinions of his followers, God had put Saul in David's hands, but he knew better than to act without the explicit word of God. How few do, in our day! God was David's resource; in Him he trusted: He would visit Saul in due time. (Verse 10).

So David and Abishai merely carried away from the sleeping king's side, his spear and his dish or flask of water. A deep sleep from God was fallen on the entire camp, so that no one heard or saw the two visitors come or go. What a strange and unheard of call for one reckoned an enemy, to make on his foe while helpless in his hands! The power of God was with David.

It was now time to arouse Saul, and David went to the top of a distant hill and shouted to Abner, the king's chief army officer (chapter 17:55). This awoke Saul, who recognized the voice as David's, and moved- by the humble and godly tone of his appeal, confessed that he had sinned, asked him to return, promising- that he would no longer do him harm. We may notice in David's words the evidence of spiritual growth through the trying circumstances he had known, and was yet in; he brings God in now more fully than before. ( Compare verses 19, 20 with verses 10 to 15 of, Chapter 24). But we see nothing about Saul to show anything but the unchanged child of nature; he could appreciate the largeness of heart of the young man he hated, but the chasm between them was never crossed. The one served Satan and the other the Lord. So is it with men and women today. Whom do. you serve, reader?

Messages of God’s Love 9/19/1926

The Old French Shoemaker

MANY years ago, in Nantes, a Bible was given to a beggar. Unlike the most of his class, the man could read. When he found the book was not known in the towns through which he passed, he conceived the idea of adding to his meagre income by reading a portion to those who would be willing to pay for it.

One day he stopped before the little shop of an old man who made the wooden shoes worn by French peasants, and begged alms of the shoemaker.

"You ask charity of me!" exclaimed the old man, "I am just as needy as you are."

The beggar replied: "If you are not willing to give me alms, then give me a sou (a french coin the same value as our cent) and I will read a chapter of the Bible to you."

"A chapter of what?" "Of the Bible."

"What book is that? I never heard of it before."

"It is a book which speaks of God."

The old shoemaker, curious to know something of the contents of the book, gave the beggar a sou, upon which the latter produced his wonderful book, and sitting down on a stone in front of the house, began to read. He opened the Bible at the 3rd chapter of John's Gospel, and the poor man listened with delight to the words of grace and truth which fell on his ear with all the attraction of something entirely new.

The narrative, of the interview of Nicodemus with the Lord Jesus deeply impressed him, and especially was he struck with the words which Luther called "the Bible in miniature," "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish; but have everlasting life." John 3:16. Before the reader concluded with the words: "He that believeth on the Son Lath everlasting life; and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abideth on him," the old man was full of anxiety to hear more, and cried "Go on! go on!" "Ah! no," cried the beggar, "only one chapter for one sou."

Another coin was quickly handed over, then the old man hearkened with speechless joy to the sweet story of the Saviour at Sychar's well, and felt as he had never felt before when he heard for the first time the Divine words:

"Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again; but 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."

The time soon came, when the fourth chapter of John had been all read, and the beggar would read no more without another coin.

The old man could not go on paying coins for he was very poor, but he begged the man to tell him where he had got such a marvelous book. The beggar said that he had got it from a pastor in Nantes, and then went his way. The book went with him, but its words remained, and through the night as well as by day the old shoemaker repeated to himself,

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

One morning about two weeks after the beggar passed through the village, the old man rose early and told his son that the shop would be left in his care as he was going to Nantes.

"To Nantes, father" said his son, "you cannot think of it, it is more than sixty miles."

"I know, but I have made up my mind to go to Nantes," so he started off on the long walk to Nantes, where he arrived at length. He sought out and found the pastor who had a depot at which Bibles were sold.

"What do you wish?" asked the pastor as he entered the depot.

"Sir." he replied, "I have been told that one could obtain from you a book that tells about God."

"Is it a Bible you wish?"

"Ah! ves, that's its name. I should like to have one."

"At what price?"

"Price. sir," said the old man.

"Certainly; we do not give away Bibles."

"Well, I haven't any money. Sir, a beggar told me you gave him one, and I am as poor as he is."

"Where do you come from, my friend?"

He told the name of the village, and the pastor knowing it was at a great distance, inquired. "How did you come?"

"On foot."

"How are you going back?"

"On foot again."

"What! have you, old as you are, undertaken a walk of more than a hundred and twenty miles to get a Bible?"

"Yes, sir; and I shall think myself amply rewarded if I get one."

"If that be so, you shall certainly have one. What size would you like? You read pretty well I suppose?"

"Ah! No I do not know a letter, but my daughter can read, and there are three other people in our village who can read."

The pastor gave him a Bible, and after thanking him heartily, he carried it homewards with joy.

On reaching his native village, he invited the people to come to his house in the evening, when those who could read, did so by turns, while the others listened.

The old shoemaker followed all that was read with the greatest attention, and committed many parts of the Scriptures to memory. The words, however, did not rest in his mind only, but touched the inmost chords of his heart.

He believed that the Bible is the Word of God, and that the blood of Jesus Christ God's Son cleanseth from all sin.

Also "There is now no condemnation to them who are in Christ Jesus."

He learned he was not his own, but was bought with a price, even the precious blood of Christ.

May we all value the Bible more, and heed its teachings wherein true wisdom and eternal blessings are found.

May we be able to say with David,

"I will delight myself in Thy statutes; I will not forget Thy Word." Psa. 119:16.

Messages of God’s Love 9/19/1926

Happy They Who Now Adore Him

Angels throng the starry heaven,

Praising God with chorus high,

F'or the gift that He has given,

Unto rebels doomed to die!

Shepherds in the field abiding,

Hear that Christ, a babe, is born;

Angels tell the wondrous tiding,

Bidding them no longer mourn.

Come and look within the manger,

See the Saviour meekly lie,

Come to earth a homeless stranger

That He might for sinners die.

Happy they who now adore Him!

While He's still despised of men;

For when all shall bow before Him,

Such He'll crown with glory then.

Messages of God’s Love 9/19/1926

Harvest

HOW different harvesting is done in these days from the ways of many years ago. Both men and women would go into the harvest field and work together. The men would cut down the grain with a large scythe, and then the women would gather it up and tie it into bundles. What hard work it was for them. They would all be worn out when night came. The improvements today do not make man any happier, although they make the work much. easier. True happiness is only to be found in knowing the Lord Jesus as our Saviour and being occupied with Him.

In whichever way the harvesting is clone we see the grain cut down and finally gathered into the granary. This the Lord Jesus uses as a picture of the end of this age. There will be the gathering of all the religious people who have not Christ as their Saviour into bundles for burning; and there will be the taking of the saved people, who are likened to wheat, into His home above. For the Lord has said,

"I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also." John 14:3.

Will you be among the bundles of good religious people without Christ; or will you be one of those the Lord will take to Himself to His home above? If you can say, Jesus is my Saviour, then He will not leave you behind. He will take all His own, for the Scripture says it is "They that are Christ's at His coming." 1 Cor. 15:23.

"YET A LITTLE WHILE, AND HE THAT SHALL COME WILL COME, AND WILL NOT TARRY." Heb. 10:37.

Messages of God’s Love 9/26/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 27

And David said in his heart, I shall now perish one day by the hand of Saul. There is nothing better for me than that I should speedily escape into the land of the Philistines; and Saul shall despair of me, to seek me any more in any coast of Israel; so shall I escape out of his hand." Poor, discouraged saint of God! Think of What that faithful, loving God had done for him, the humble shepherd boy of Bethlehem, and what He was about to do for him. David was not to be troubled again by Saul; God had delivered him out of his hands time after time, and just before this He had stopped Saul from killing him. The heart searching trials he was having, were for his own blessing and future profit.

But 'David was only a man, after all; his faith failed; he left God out of his calculations (see verse 1), and fell from the high position he had occupied, to reasoning from his circumstances. His own later words, inspired of God, in Psalm 27:14 tell us what should have been the expression of his heart at this time: "Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart; wait, I say,. on the Lord."

Blinded then, for the time by unbelief. for God had not forsaken him and would never leave him, David went over to the Philistine king of Gath with his household and followers. Saul presently learned of it and sought no more for him God was not indifferent to the needs of his servant who was "beloved" (the meaning of his name, David) no matter how far he might wander from the divine pathway appointed for him. As it appears, David was not comfortable in the court of Achish (nor could he be, one who knew the living and true God, among the servants of Satan), and he asked and received the town of Ziklag in which to live. This was in the far south of the land given by God to Israel for a possession, but from which, as we have noticed again and again, the Philistines had not been driven, due to the lack of faith in the children of Israel.

While among the Philistines, David and his men went out to the south and invaded the territory occupied by the people with whom the Philistines were friendly, as it would seem, and David told a lie to Achish about it, winning his favor by maintaining a false position before him. One wrong step easily leads to another, and forsaking the path of simple dependence on God, is apt to involve the believer in much sorrow. We shall find presently David restored in soul and going on more becomingly before God, but he will first be disciplined as a child of God, because of his failure.

Messages of God’s Love 9/26/1926

Harry's Riches

ONE day our little Harry was invited to spend the forenoon with his young playmate, Johnny Carroll. Johnny's mother died when he was a baby, but his father was still living. He was an only child, and he dwelt in a fine house, and had a fine carriage to ride around in.

He had a great many toys, and a real watch that would go all day without stopping; and as for candies and cakes, why, the physician who attended the family said that Johnny had enough of such things given him to supply a whole regiment of little boys.

But Johnny was not always sick; and, as I said before, he had many beautiful things. So, of course, this visit promised Master Harry a great deal of enjoyment. But, alas! when the poor little fellow returned home in the afternoon, his brow was clouded, and he had a dismal look in his blue eyes, and the least bit of a pout on his cherry lips.

Something was wrong, I knew, and at last out it came.

"Mother, Johnny has a big popgun, and a watch, and a hobbyhorse, and lots of things," and Harry looked up with a disconsolate stare.

"Well, my boy, what of that?"

"Nothing, mother," and the telltale tears sprang to his eyes, "only I guess we're very poor, aren't we?"

"No indeed, Harry, we are very far from being poor; but we are not as rich as Mr. Carroll's family, if that is what you mean."

"O mother!" insisted the little fellow, "I do think we are very poor; anyhow I am."

"O Harry!" I exclaimed reproachfully.

"Yes ma'am, I am," he sobbed; "I haven't anything at all, scarcely,—I mean anything that's worth money,—except things to eat and wear, and I'd have to have them anyway."

"Do you know my son,—"

Just then Uncle Ben looked up from the paper he had been reading.

"Harry," said he, solemnly, "you know I'm a doctor, and if you will give me a chance to try some experiments, you can earn quite a handful of money."

"Can I?" asked Harry, looking up quickly through his tears; "I'd like that ever so much; but what is a 'speriment,' uncle?"

"An experiment," said his uncle, "is a trial, a way of finding out things. If you want to find out what will happen when sugar is put into water, you just try the experiment of putting a lump into this tumbler, and you'll find out that sugar will melt, and the water will become sweet. Now for business:—I want to find out something about eyes; so, if you'll let me have yours, I'll give you a dollar apiece for them."

"For my eyes!" exclaimed Harry, astonished almost out of his wits.

"Yes," resumed Uncle Ben, quietly, "for your eyes. I'll give you chloroform, so it cannot hurt you in the least, and you shall have a beautiful glass pair for nothing to wear in their place. Come, my boy, a dollar apiece, cash down. What do you say? I'll take them out as quick as a wink."

"Give you my eyes, uncle!" cried Harry, looking wild at the very thought, "for two dollars? I think not!" and the startled little fellow shook his head defiantly.

"Well, five;—ten;—twenty dollars, then?" But Harry shook his head at every offer.

"No, sir! I wouldn't let you have them for a thousand dollars. Why, what could I do without my eyes? I couldn't see mother, nor the baby, nor the flowers, nor the horses, nor anything," added Harry, waxing warm.

"I'll give you two thousand," urged Uncle Ben, taking a roll of bank-notes out of his pocket. Harry, standing at a respectful distance shouted that he never would do any such thing.

"Very well," continued his uncle, with a serious air,. at the same time writing down something in his note-book, "I can't afford to give you more than two thousand dollars, Harry, so I shall have to do without the eves: but." he added, "I'll tell vou what I will do: I'll give you twenty dollars if you will let me put a few drops out of this bottle into your ears. It won't hurt, but it will make you deaf. I want to try some experiments with deafness, you see. Come, now! Here are the twenty dollars all ready for you."

"Make me deaf!" shouted Harry, without even looking at the gold pieces temptingly displayed upon the table. "I guess you won't do that either. Why, I couldn't hear a word if I was deaf, could I?"

"Probably not," replied Uncle Ben, dryly. So, of course, Harry refused again. He would never give up his hearing, he said,—"no, not for three thousand dollars!"

Uncle Ben made another note in his book, and then came out with prodigious bids for "a right arm," "hands," "feet," "nose," etc., etc., finally ending with an offer of ten thousand dollars for "mother," and five thousand for the baby.

To all of these offers, however, Harry shook his head, his eyes flashing, and exclamations of surprise and indignation bursting from his lips. At last Uncle Ben said he must give up his experiments, for Harry's prices were entirely too high.

"Ha, ha!" laughed the boy exultingly; and he folded his dimpled arms and looked as if to say, "I'd like to see the man who could pay them!"

"Why, Harry, look here!" exclaimed Uncle Ben, peering into his notebook, "here is a big addition sum; come, help me count it.'

Harry looked into the book, and there, sure enough, were all the figures. Uncle Ben read the list aloud: "Eyes, two thousand dollars; ears, three thousand; right arm, two thousand five hundred:" and so on, the last two items on the list being ten thousand for mother, and five thousand for the baby.

He added the numbers together, and they amounted in all to thirty-two thousand dollars.

"There, Harry," said Uncle Ben, "don't you think you are foolish not to take up with some of my offers?"

"No, sir, I don't," answered Harry, resolutely.

"Then," said Uncle Ben, "you talk of being poor, and by your own showing you have treasures that you'll not take thirty-two thousand dollars for. What do you say to that?"

Harry didn't know exactly what to say, so he laughed and blushed for a second, and just as a big happy tear came rolling down his cheek, he threw his chubby arms around my neck.

"Mother," he whispered, "isn't God good to make everybody so rich!"

Yes, dear boys and girls, God is indeed good, and we hope you thank Him for the many comforts and blessings which He constantly gives to you.

"Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Eph. 5:20.

"The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and He addeth no sorrow with it." Prov. 10:22.

God has, in addition to our many temporal riches, given His own blessed Son, and sent Him into this world to save your soul and make you fit to live with Him in the mansions above.

Every little boy and girl that has taken Christ as his or her Saviour is truly rich. Listen to this:

"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.

"Thanks be unto God for His unspeakable Gift." 2 Cor. 8:15.

Messages of God’s Love 9/26/1926

Bible Questions for October

Answers to Bible Questions for August
"The Children's Class"

"And there came a voice," etc. Mark 1:11

"And He arose and," etc. " 4:39.

"And whithersoever He," etc. " 6:56.

"For Moses said," etc. Mark 7:10; 10:19.

"For whosoever shall," etc. Mark 9:41.

"And Jesus said, I am," etc. " 14:62.

"And were beyond measure," etc. " 7:37.

Bible Questions for October
"The Children's Class"

The Answers are to be found in John

Write in full the verse containing the words, "The only true God."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "The Word was made flesh."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "I will in no wise cast out."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "From death unto life."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Feed my lambs."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "They know his voice."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Yet shall he live."

Answers to Bible Questions for August
"The Young People's Bible Class"

The deaf man. Mark 7:32-35.

The Lord, and the father of the afflicted boy. Mark 9:22, 23.

"Where their worm dieth not and the fire is not quenched." Mark 9:44, 46, 48.

"Houses, brethren, sisters, mothers, children, lands, persecutions, eternal life." Mark 10:30.

Believing that those things we ask shall come to pass, and a forgiving spirit toward others. Mark 11:24, 25.

The Lord. Mark 13:34.

"Shall be damned." Mark 16:16.

Bible Questions for October
"The Young People's Bible Class"

The Answers are to be found in John

Give at least three words used three times as often by John as by the other gospel writers.

Give three prominent miracles found in John which are not found in the other gospels.

Give three verses that show that the Christian must expect the hatred of the world.

Did Jesus baptize?

Name two men who tried to be secret disciples of Christ.

Of what three things does the Holy Spirit reprove (convince or convict) the world?

Give in John's own words the purpose for which he wrote his gospel.

Messages of God’s Love 10/3/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 28

If in the twenty first chapter, (verses 10-13), we saw a saint of God out of the path of faith, out of communion with God, for a season, the David we now see, in chapters 27, 28 and 29, exhibits the same traits in a worse degree. Before, he pretended insanity for fear of his life; now he professes to be a friend of the world, takes a place of influence in it, and consequently maintains himself by living a lie. Sad evidence of a low state of soul in David is the Holy Spirit's record in verses 1 and 2. But. what else can be expected when the believer turns from dependence on the living and true God to depend upon his own resources, and seeks the protection of a guilty world which is soon to meet its judgment?

The Philistines were prepared for war upon Israel and gathered in Shunem, and the Israelites united in Gilboa to meet them. Saul, miserable, self-seeking man, without resource in God whom he had never known by faith, is overcome by fear. God whom he had got along without all his days, or outwardly recognizing but habitually disobeying, will not now answer him.

We are reminded of those solemn words of Proverbs 1:24-32: "Because I have called, and ye refused, ...ye have set at naught all My counsel, and would none of My reproof, .. . when your fear cometh as desolation, and your destruction cometh as a whirlwind, .. .. then shall they call upon Me, but I will not answer, .... for that they hated knowledge, and did not choose the fear of the Lord." May this not be the portion of the reader!

Saul then no longer turns to religion (and outward service to God, as on former occasions, chapters 13:9 15:30, etc.). Has he learned that the time for sham, for empty profession, is past? His heart trembles as he faces, not only the loss of honor and position, but of life itself; with eternity before him, Saul is "without God" (Eph. 2:12). Will he then, now at last take his true place before Him as a confessed sinner seeking mercy from Him who is "rich in mercy" (Eph. 2:4)? Had he done so, he would have found even at this late moment in his life, a pardoning God.

Saul made his choice; he decided to seek satanic help rather than to humble himself before God and acknowledge in brokenness of spirit his many sins. Accordingly, he went to a woman who had a "familiar spirit," which he knew and had condemned as evil. What followed is somewhat parallel to the case of the wicked Balaam in the book of Numbers, chapters 22 to 24. Both the woman of En-dor and Balaam (and a large class in our own times who have dealings with the unseen world and profess to be able to foretell events) had to do with Satan and the demons under his control, and in both these cases we see God interfering for His own glory. Instead of a demon, the woman saw Samuel, and was startled and terrified; it was power above her enchantments that met her, the power of God.

Samuel was seen in the likeness he had borne on earth, and in the few sentences he uttered, Saul learned that tomorrow all will be over with him; he and his sons will be in eternity. The realization of the solemn judgment of God upon him, and that not without warnings during his life, was too much now for Saul, and a deeper fear entered his heart. Eternity with the lost, the unrepentant, was Saul's prospect. Is it yours?

"It is appointed unto men once to die,

but after this the judgment," but "unto them which look for Him (Christ) shad He appear the second time without (apart from) sin, unto salvation." He!). 9:27, 28.

Messages of God’s Love 10/3/1926

Cover My Defenseless Head

JOHN Wesley's famous hymn, "Jesus, Lover of my soul, Let me to Thy bosom fly," has brought blessing and comfort to untold thousands.

Many years ago a soldier spoke in public of the help this hymn was to him.

He said, "I was a mere boy, and had just been drafted to service. One night I was put on out-post duty in an advanced and lonely place. I was informed that the enemy was close by. I knew that my life was in danger; the bright moon light made me plainly visible. To keep up my spirits and quiet my nerves I began to sing the hymn,

`Jesus, Lover of my soul,'

and by the time I came to the words,

`Cover my defenseless head

With the shadow of Thy wing,'

I had recovered myself. It seemed as if all my fears had vanished, and I paced my beat the rest of the time until relieved, as fearless as if it were day time. I felt that my prayer was answered."

This was related in public before a number of people who had gathered. While he was speaking, a man sitting near, gazed at him with evident and increasing astonishment. When he finished his story, this second man exclaimed,

"This is most extraordinary. That very night I was in that very wood on scout duty with a detachment of troops. We knew that we were close to the other lines. As we approached the edge of the woods, we heard a clear voice begin to sing,

`Jesus, Lover of my soul.'

We crept softly forward, not knowing what was there. Presently we saw plainly in the moon light the solitary figure of a sentry, pacing his beat, and it was he who was singing. Instantly a dozen muskets covered him, waiting for my order to fire. Just then he sang with a feeling of trust and pathos.

`Cover my defenseless head

With the shadow of Thy wing.'

I ordered the guns lowered, and said to my men,

"Don't touch that boy! We will go back to camp."

Then taking the ex-soldier by the hand, he said, '

"That hymn saved your life that night; and your trust in God, your invisible Protector, reached my soul and saved me."

"The Lord is my Rock, and my Fortress, and my Deliverer; my God, my Strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my High Tower. I will call upon the Lord, who is worthy to be praised: so shall I be saved from mine enemies." Psa. 1:2, 3.

Messages of God’s Love 10/3/1926

Kindness

KINDNESS is that which should mark us in all our ways. Just look at our picture this week and there we see two sisters and their brother with their little playmate whom we will call Margaret. Little brother is kind to her, and offers her an apple, but just look at the expression on the face of one of the other girls. She does not like it; evidently she would rather have the apple for herself, while little Margaret is rather bashful, and does not like to be too quick about taking it.

How much happiness there would be in this world if there was only kindness shown instead of selfishness.

If we look at the Lord Jesus we see the opposite of all this. He came into this world not to receive, but to give. He gave up the glory He had with the Father before the world was, came into this world for the express purpose of going to that cross to die for us, His enemies. Was there ever love like that from any other? I am sure we may say, it was impossible for any man, except the Lord Jesus, to do this.

Let us think of the love the Lord Jesus has shown to us, and if we believe it in our hearts, we will seek to show it to others also.

"BE YE KIND ONE TO ANOTHER, TENDER-HEARTED, FORGIVING ONE ANOTHER, EVEN AS GOD FOR CHRIST'S SAKE HATH FORGIVEN YOU." Eph. 4:32

Messages of God’s Love 10/3/1926

The Saviour's Call

"Jesus called a little child to Him." Matthew 18:2.

Once Jesus called a little child,

We cannot tell his name;

But we are sure that little one,

At once to Jesus came.

Then Jesus took him by the hand,

And where they all could see,

He set him in their midst and said,

"Like this child you must be."

And Jesus now is calling me,

I hear His welcome "Come,"

To Him I go, in Him I trust

To save and guide me home.

Messages of God’s Love 10/3/1926

Who is Coming?

WHAT are they looking at—dear kind mamma and bright baby boy? Why do they look so happy? Do you not think they are watching for Papa as he comes back at supper time after a long day's work?

We like to have Papa come home in the evening and take the little ones on his knee. Sometimes he brings us candy or something else we like. Sometimes he plays with us and tells us beautiful Bible stories. He is kind and good to us and we love him. So we look forward with pleasure to his return at the close of the day.

But there is some One else for whom some of us are looking. Do you know Who it is? The old as well as the young —all who love Him—are looking for Jesus to come.

Jesus loved us so much that He left His happy home above and came to this poor wicked world. He came to die for us that our sins might be washed away in His precious blood. And when He loves us so much, He cannot be satisfied to live without us. .So He has gone back to heaven to prepare a place for us, and soon He is coming to take us to His heavenly home, so that He can have us with Him all the time, even for ever and ever.

Let us be always watching, for we don't know whether it will be in the morning or in the evening, during the day or in the night, that Jesus will descend into the clouds and catch us up to meet Him in the air.

We must not think it will be months or years before He comes, for it may be to-day or to-night. He wants us to be always watching and ready.

"FOR YET A LITTLE WHILE, AND HE THAT SHALL COME WILL COME, AND WILL NOT TARRY." Heb. 10:37

Messages of God’s Love 10/10/1926

How the Sea-Gulls Perished

DOWN by the sea-shore, you have often seen flocks of pretty sea-gulls sailing so gracefully on the waves, and hopping on the sand. Walking along the shore, I passed scores of these pretty birds lying dead, and asked a fisherman what had caused their death.

"The storms of winter," he replied. "This is by far too cold a coast for them to live through the winter. You would see them gathering in bands before the severity of the winter sets in, and all going off to some warmer shore, but these foolish birds had likely been finding something to please them here and were too late in escaping, so they have perished."

"Very sad for the birds," I said, "but it's only what thousands of people, old and young are doing every day. They are so busy with the pleasures of sin and the

world, that they neglect to flee from the wrath to come, and so death and judgment overtake them, and they perish eternally."

"How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation." Heb. 2:3.

Messages of God’s Love 10/10/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 29

Aphek and Jezreel, Endor, Shunem and Gilboa, the places mentioned in the 28th and 29th chapters were all in the north, in a district about 15 miles southwest of the Sea of Galilee. Gath and Ziklag (chapter 27) were in the southwest and extreme south, respectively, of Palestine. We see the preparations for battle in verses 1 and 2 of our chapter, but God would not permit His erring child to be longer numbered with the Philistines. Their leaders said. "What do these Hebrews here?", having no confidence in David and his followers.

David now is a sad but true example of a worldly minded believer, out of communion with God, viewed with suspicion by the world which cannot recognize in him one of its own.

David's deception had been believed by the Philistine king (chapter 27:12). His loyalty to Achish we may judge to have been genuine, with reservations which David himself could perhaps not have defined, for faith, the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Heb. 11:1), was inactive; his eyes were on himself and not on God, and for the time he judged by circumstances (which all seemed contrary to him), and not by the word of the living God: David had, through occupation with his trials—and they were severe—lost the significance of the words of inspiration in Deuteronomy 33:25-27,

"Thy shoes shall be iron and brass; and as thy days, so shall thy strength be. There is none like unto the God of Jeshurun, who rideth upon the heaven in thy help, and in His excellency on the sky. The eternal God is thy Refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms."

Achish, flattered perhaps by having David as his servant, and having found no fault in him (verses 3 and 6), would have taken him to the battle with Israel, but God had pity on His poor, misguided child, and delivered. him from the snare of the devil. We here see David at the lowest ebb of his spiritual life thus far, as perhaps verse 8 most fully evidences. He is now compelled by the Philistines themselves. (but God was at work behind the scenes) to withdraw from them, to resume again his true character before God of a separated man; he and his men journey southward in the direction of the border city of Ziklag, while the Philistine hosts go northeastward to the valley of Jezreel.

Messages of God’s Love 10/10/1926

The Lost One Found

A BOY in L. once went into the sea to bathe, and was carried away by the tide. Though he struggled long, he was not able to swim against the ebbing tide, and so was taken right out to sea. The poor little boy was almost lost, but he was at last picked up by a boat belonging to a vessel bound for D.

The sailors were very kind to him when he was taken into the vessel. One gave him a cap, another a coat, another a pair of shoes, and so he was clothed.

That evening a gentleman, walking near the place where the little boy had gone into the water, found his clothes lying on the shore. He searched and made inquiries, but no tidings were to be heard of the poor little fellow. He found a piece of paper in the pocket of the coat, by which he discovered to whom the clothes belonged.

The kind man went with a sad and heavy heart to break the news to the parents. He said to the father,

"I am very sorry to tell you that I found these clothes on the shore, and could not find out the boy to whom they belonged; I fear he has been drowned."

The father could hardly speak for grief; the mother was overcome with sorrow. They caused every inquiry to be made, but no account was to be had of their dear boy. The house was very sad: the little children missed their playfellow; the mother shed many tears, and the father's heart was heavy.

The boy, however, was brought back in a vessel bound for L. As soon as he reached L. he set off to his father's house. He did not like to be seen in the strange cap and coat and shoes which he had on; so he went by the lanes, where he would not meet those who knew him.

At last he came to the door and knocked. When the servant opened it and saw who it was, she screamed with joy, and exclaimed,

"Here is Master Tom.”

His father rushed out and, bursting into tears, embraced him. His mother fainted, the joyful surprise being too much for her. What a happy evening they all, parents and children, spent! The one who was supposed to be lost and dead, was safe and sound. Like Jacob, the father could say, "It is enough; my son is vet alive."

We can well understand the scene.

Your soul is precious, dear boy or girl, and to trust in the good Shepherd, the mighty Son of God as your Saviour, is of the utmost importance to yourself and of great joy to God.

Have you yet given God this joy? Unbelief never gives joy to God, and remains joyless forever. Faith gives Him joy and shares His endless delights. Are you "dead" and "lost;" or "alive" and "found"?

"There is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth"! Luke 15:10.

Messages of God’s Love 10/10/1926

Rejoice Forever

UPON entering an elevator in one of our city stores, I noticed it was operated by a young girl who seemed, however, quite equal to the task. As the second floor was reached, another girl entered who was apparently a friend of the first. The two girls stood chatting gaily. The second girl passed out of the elevator at the top floor, and as she did so, the other blithly said,

"Mary, be merry!"

Everyone in the elevator smiled and seemed to share in their joy, which sat so naturally and becomingly upon those in the bright morning of life.

A feeling of sadness crossed my mind as I noticed in both of these dear girls, the unmistakable Jewish features. The thought occurred to me, How long will this happiness last, what of eternity? We know that the Jewish race as a whole reject the Lord Jesus Christ as their Saviour, and we are assured from the Scriptures that there is no salvation apart from Him and His work on Calvary's cross.

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

We are always glad to see people happy, but wisdom would prompt one to secure the happiness which lasts, not only for the few brief years of this life, but for eternity.

How many there are who are content to drift on with no thought of a future life; content to get as much enjoyment as they can as they go on. and take their chances for what may lie beyond.

O. what a short sighted policy is this! There is a long eternity ahead for every human soul, which is to be spent either in happiness or misery, and the question of which it will be, must be settled here.

Dear reader, the Lord Jesus wants you to spend that long eternity with Him in His bright and happy home above where there will be fulness of joy forever. His desire for this was so great that He laid down His life to make this possible. This was the only way to put away your sins and make you fit for a sphere where all is purity.

True happiness lies in the assurance' that this blessed abode awaits you, and this assurance may be yours if you will but believe on the Lord Jesus Christ: He has done all that is necessary for your salvation. It is by simple faith in Him that you will reap the fruit of His toil and suffering.

"Jesus Christ, Whom having not seen ye love: in whom, though now ye see Him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory." 1 Peter 1:7, 8.

Messages of God’s Love 10/10/1926

Calvary

There is a green hill far away

Beyond a city wall,

Near where the Lord was crucified—

Who died for sinners all.

We may not know, we cannot tell,

What pains He had to bear;

But we believe it was for us

He hung and suffered there.

He died that we might be forgiven;

He died to make us good;

That we might go to Him in heaven,

Saved by His precious blood.

O! dearly, dearly, has He loved;

Well may we love Him too;

First trust in His redeeming blood,

Then seek His will to do.

Messages of God’s Love 10/10/1926

The Artist

YOU see papa is an artist and his little son likes to imitate him. He has climbed tip on his father's high stool, and has taken his palate and brush and is pretending that he is painting. How good all this seems to us in childhood, and now that some of us are older we can look back and think of these times when we loved to do the things that papa or mamma did. The reason we did so, was because they loved us and we loved them.

There is a lesson we may learn from this, for there is One who loves us much more than even papa or mamma can, and He is God. The way He has shown that great giving love to us was by giving His only
Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, to die for us on Calvary's cross, so that His holy and righteous claims which stood against us could all be met, and He could righteously let us go free. Is that not wonderful love? Surely we must say it is!

Then if we do believe that God has so loved us, and that we are now His children, let us seek to imitate Him, and show love to others, as the Scripture says,

"Be ye therefore followers (or imitators) of God as dear children; and walk in love as Christ also bath loved us, and given Himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet smelling savor." Eph. 5:1, 2.

"THIS IS MY COMMANDMENT, THAT YE LOVE ONE ANOTHER, AS I HAVE LOVED YOU." Jno. 15:12

Messages of God’s Love 10/17/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 30

On the third day came a fresh and a sharper dealing from God. He it was Who had caused the Philistine lords to refuse David a place in their army when about to fight the hosts of Israel, and as a further, needed circumstance for the restoration of His servant to the path of faith, He had moved the Amalekites to attack Ziklag, carry off all the living, and to destroy the town.

The three day's journey, we may rightly suppose, had given David time to reflect upon his recent course, but it was only when the desolation of Ziklag came into view that his soul was restored to a right state before God. What exercises of heart must he not have passed through as he reviewed his actions and associations since a year and four months before this he had left the wilderness of Ziph. Names in the Scriptures are sometimes very significant, and as we have before noted, Ziph means "refining place"; David had left that character of things where faith was tested, for an easier path, but it had involved him in the most serious way, Better far had it been to have stayed in the trials and tribulations which were involved in the path of faith, than to have lost communion with God, and joined forces with His enemies. Now he could see clearly again, and being fully restored, his heart turns to God as his refuge and strength. a very present help in trouble (Psalm 46).

That David's followers spoke of stoning him was a part of the needed lesson. Had he not left the divinely appointed path, this would not have occurred. In thinking of David as a type of Christ ( and such in general he is seen to be). we find no analogy here.

Asking now direction of God, which he had not done when he left Ziph ( see chapter 27, verse 1), he asked not in vain, and pursuing the departing Amalekites, he overtook them and recovered all.

Typically here we no doubt see the Lord in the work of redemption. bruising the serpent's head (Gen. 8:15); through death destroying (annulling—making- of no effect) him that had the power. of death, that is, the devil; and delivering them who were in his hands (see Heb. 2:14, 15). Typical too, is the bringing in of the Egyptian found dying by the road side, who was deserted by his master when he could no longer be useful to him; grace is shown to him, though he had been a servant of the enemy: permanent deliverance is assured him, and he becomes of service to him with whom lie is henceforth associated.

David's largeness of heart is marked in the treatment of the faint two hundred who stayed behind at the brook when their strength failed, and in his sending of the spoils of his victory to the elders of Judah and his friends who had done nothing to entitle them to share in them. None who had had to do with him in the time of his rejection was forgotten (verse 31).

Messages of God’s Love 10/17/1926

Curly

CURLY lay in a long ward in the hospital. He was lame on one foot before, and while crossing the road on his stilt, a heavy wagon came rumbling round the corner, and before Curly could cross, he was run down. His other foot was so badly crushed that it had to be taken off, and the doctors feared that Curly would die. One of the nurses who had the care of Curly, was a Christian, and during the lone hours of the night, when the poor boy lay awake with pain, she sought to wile away the time by reading stories to him of a gospel character. Curly was much interested to hear of sinful boys like himself being converted by believing on the Lord Jesus. He had never heard of such things before. The kind nurse sought to reach his conscience by telling him of his sin, and how God must punish it. This greatly disturbed the suffering boy, for he knew he was a sinner in the sight of God.

"Do you think He'll send me to hell, nurse?" Curly anxiously asked, after a long conversation.

"He does not want to send you there. Curly, I'm sure. He loves you very much, but hates your sins, and in order to get these sins away from you, He gave His own Son to die for you on the cross. If you just believe in Him, He-will save you from your sins, and make you so clean and pure in His sight, that you will be a fit dweller in His holy heaven."

"But did Jesus die for bad boys like me, nurse?" asked the awakened boy.

"Yes, Curly, He died for sinners, and that's what you are, isn't it?"

"O, I'm more than that, if you know it all!" said Curly, shaking his head at the memory of his sinful course.

"God knows all about it," said the nurse tenderly; "and He says it was just for such as you that Jesus died, and though your sins are many, yet the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses those who believe on Him from all sin. These are His own words. and I am sure they are true."

The light of the glorious gospel shone into Curly's heart, and he was filled with peace. But his bodily strength gradually sank, and it was evident he was soon to be taken away. The Christian nurse kept as much as possible by him, and sought to speak words of cheer and comfort to him. His last night on earth was one of great suffering, but he was wonderfully happy amid it all. A few minutes before the end came, he raised his hand as if lie wanted the nurse to come near to him. She knelt by his bedside, and put her ear close to his lips. Mustering his strength, he whispered in broken accents,

"I'm so glad you told me of the love of God, and that Jesus died for bad boys like me." These were Curly's last words, and soon after he passed away. His confession has the two grand marks of a genuine conversion. He owned his sin, and he trusted the death of Christ alone to atone for his sins. Reader, do you?

"This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners." 1 Tim. 1:15.

Messages of God’s Love 10/17/1926

Have You Ever Thanked Him?

A LITTLE girl of eight years, and her brother some twelve months younger, sat one cold winter evening, cozily nestled on the hearth rug at their mother's feet, watching the bright sparks from the fire, as they played hide-and-seek in the twilight.

When lights were brought, both children exclaimed, "0, mamma, dear, will you read to us?" Assent was given, and they sat eagerly listening to the story of Jesus and His love; of the intense agony He suffered in the garden, when great drops of blood fell from His brow; how patiently He endured the rude treatment of cruel soldiers, and after all actually let them put Him to death—and all for love of us.

As the mother read, her voice faltered, for it was but a few weeks before that she had learned how much. how very much, her dear Saviour had borne for her.

"Mamma," said the boy, tenderly caressing her, "why are you crying? Are you sorry the Lord Jesus let them do it

"No. darling," said she, "for unless He had, we must each have been punished for our own sins; but I was thinking how very ungrateful I have been in living so long without even thanking Him." All this time little Mary sat quiet and unheeded, but suddenly the stillness was broken by convulsive sobs.

"O, mamma," cried she, burying her face in her hands, "if I ask the Lord Jesus now, to take me as I am, will He do it?"

"Yes, dear," said the mother, "I know He will; He never rejects any one who comes to Him. He says in His Word. `Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.' "

"Do let us ask Him," said the child; and sinking on their knees, little Mary told the Lord Jesus that she wanted to be His little lamb. She thanked Him for being punished instead of her, and asked Him to hold her very tightly because she was so small.

Now, little reader, have you accepted the Lord Jesus as your Saviour? Have you ever thanked Him for being punished instead of you? If not, 0, do so now. Put down this paper, and ask Him to take you now, just as you are; not waiting until you have tried to make ourself better, but just as you are, and He will receive you, and hold you as He has held little Mary, for He will not let anyone pluck His little lambs out of His hand (John 10:28). So, if you are His, you will be quite safe, and so happy.

Do not reject His offer of pardon and peace; do not treat Him so ungratefully. Let me plead with you once again to accept Him now as your Saviour; then, when He comes, you, too, will be ready.

Messages of God’s Love 10/17/1926

Cling to the Bible

A Mother's Parting Counsel to Her Only Son

As you journey through life, whate'er path you'll pursue,

There is one thing in earnest I ask you to do;

O listen and heed, while I say this to you,

Cling, cling to the Bible, my boy.

You may meet with misfortune, with sorrow and tears,

You may battle with sin and with Satan for years;

But, while doing the truth, do not have any fears,

But cling to the Bible, my boy.

Each time that you read it, you'll find 'something new,

Of Jesus who brought His salvation to you;

To Him, as your Lord and your Master, be true,

And cling to the Bible, my boy.

'Tis the anchor of hope, 'tis the lamp that gives light,

'Tis the beacon that shines on your life's darkest night;

If you follow its guidance, you'll always be right,

So cling to the Bible, my boy.

Messages of God’s Love 10/17/1926

Autumn

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. You be 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?

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 harvest to His glory?

"EVERY ONE OF US SHALL GIVE ACCOUNT OF HIMSELF TO GOD." Rom. 14:12

Messages of God’s Love 10/24/1926

Bible Lessons

1 Samuel 31

Here we are transported to the battlefield of Gilboa, from whose solemn issues David was mercifully spared. Israel's leader, Saul, who also had rejected God, to whom the people had turned as the one who would fulfill their desires (chapter 8: chapter 10: verses 17-19), now at last was laid low, and many perished with him. Deeply saddening to read also that Jonathan, who loved David, and knew him as the rightful leader of the people of God, died among the unbelievers. As we read the sad account of Saul's death, we are constrained to believe that as he had lived, so he died. All the men of Israel fled from the vicinity of the battle, and the Philistines went and lived in their cities. The Philistines made much of Saul's death, but there were some brave men of Jabesh-Gilead who went by night and secured the bodies of Saul and his sons and gave them some sort of burial. In the Second Book of Samuel, chapter 2, David commended the men of Jabesh-Gilead for what they did.

In this First Book of Samuel we have seen man again proved a failure. The people, with their hearts set on being like the heathen world around them, demanded a king. They were given their desire in a man of fine appearance.—perhaps the finest flower of the natural man the country could have produced, but what a loss to the nation! Religious, but without the link of faith connecting him with the true God, Saul proved to have himself as his object, and when another was brought on the scene, who truly served God, David the shepherd of Bethlehem, he hated him and would have killed him. Then we have seen the trials of David; circumstances often extremely painful, and the man whom God purposed to be king over His people, failed to live up to the type of Christ, which in general he was. But the book closes with Saul's death, and David restored to communion with God after his second recorded failure.

Saul was the wrong leader; David the right one. Following- Saul led to destruction; following David had its difficulties, but a brighter day was about to dawn, and devotion to him was going to be rewarded.

There are two leaders today; Satan and Christ. Who are 'you following? It is a searching question; do not put it off! The day is coming when the poor dupes of Satan will be seen at the judgment throne there to hear the dread sentence of eternal judgment, but before that event, those who have received the knowledge of Christ as a personal Saviour, will be caught away to be with Him and to share His glory, the beloved of God. 0, decide for Christ at once!

Messages of God’s Love 10/24/1926

Call Upon Me

ONE warm spring day, many years ago, the sun shone brightly upon a group of merry children at play, in the pretty garden of a cottage in the suburbs of a busy city. Within the home, a slender boy of twelve sat curled up in a cushioned chair, pouring over a book.

"William, my child, why do you not leave your book, and run out in the sunshine and play with the other children?" and the fond mother bent over her handsome boy, stroking his fair curls and gazing lovingly into his eyes.

"O, mother darling, the children are so rough in their play, and I am tired—tired."

The mother sighed deeply as she turned away, for her pale, delicate boy was the object of her constant care. But as usual Le had gained his point, and was left to pore over his books. Thus it was day after day. While the other children grew sturdy and strong, William remained frail and delicate. His devoted mother mourned and lamented over this.

William's mother was a true child of God, and wishing that her children should he taught the Word of God, she allowed them to attend a Sunday-school in the neighborhood. One of the verses that he learned at this time clung to his memory, and through it God was surely speaking to him in "a still small voice." It was this:

"Call- upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me."

But to William there seemed no "day of trouble" then, so he felt no need of calling on God. But though he did not realize it, he really was in a "day of trouble," for he was not a believer in the Lord Jesus, and God says in His Word:

"He that believeth on the Son bath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life, but the wrath of God abideth on him." John 3:36.

Surely to have "the wrath of God" abiding on one, would make it a "day of trouble," but William was unconscious of this, and so the years slipped by quietly and he was happy in the loving care of his fond mother.

William was now seventeen years old, and he had entered the university, when a sudden change came. His devoted mother was taken from him and he was left desolate and inconsolable. Surely God
was again speaking to him, this time in louder tones, though with a voice of tenderest sympathy and love,

"Call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me." But he heeded not the gracious invitation.

Just at this time, his brother, who was a sea captain, returned from a long voyage bringing his vessel into port. It was decided that William should go with him on his next voyage. He was cheered by the prospect of a free life on the ocean, thinking to drown the sorrow of his aching heart in the excitement of his new life. Little did the poor boy realize at this time that the eve of God was continually looking down upon him in pity and love, guiding his every move.

It was the month of November. when the vessel set sail and for a time all went well. But one morning as their vessel was plowing the waters, the clouds began to gather and the winds blew stronger, till at last the storm burst upon them in all its fury. The waves rose mountain-high carrying the little vessel in their arms, and tearing the sails and rigging away and leaving a hole in the hold of the vessel. Every available man was called to the pumps, but in vain, for the vessel was filling faster than the frantic efforts of the sailors could pump the water out. All this time the cruel wind was driving the helpless vessel towards the rocks. Darkness had now settled down upon them, and the fury of the storm was unabated. The hopeless horror of the situation filled every heart with sickening terror and despair.

Verily God was once again calling to William, not now in the still small voice, nor in the gentle tones of tenderest sympathy, but with the voice as of a trumpet. Clearly it -might be heard, above the mighty roar of the wind, louder even than the peals of thunder that rolled across the face of the angry heavens,

"Call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me."

Suddenly there came a shock! The vessel had struck and fastened itself on a sand bar. The boats were lowered, but they were crushed to pieces by the violence of the waves the instant they came within their grasp.

Sick at heart, faint from exhaustion, and trembling with terror, William came dragging himself up from the pumps in the hold, hopeless, helpless, nothing before him but a grave in the icy waters. But fiercer than his bodily suffering was the anguish of his heart as he thought of his never dying soul, which would then be lost eternally.

Like a flash above the roar of the elements, there sounded in his heart the voice of his God, reverberating down into the depths of his inmost being,

"Call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me."

Crawling into the cabin, he fell on his face, crying to God in all his misery, weakness and fear, pleading to be "delivered" in this his "day of trouble," promising the . Lord that, if He would only save him from this cruel death, he would search out the way of salvation for his soul, and spend the rest of his life for Him. Even as he prayed a great calm stole over his tempest-tossed heart, and a great calm settled over the raging waters as well. It was like that scene of old, when the Master's voice rang out over the storm tossed sea,

"Peace, be still, and there was a great calm."

That long night of storm and suffering in the ship was drawing to a close, and the day was beginning to dawn. One of the sailors climbing a spar, lighted a piece of cloth, and waved a signal of distress to the distant shore. This was seen by the watchers there, and soon the life boats were alongside, and strong arms and kind hearts were waiting to rescue the poor exhausted half frozen crew, as they dropped one by one, into the boats. At last it was William's turn, and though he had scarcely strength to move, he managed to drop to safety. As he crept away into a little corner of the life boat, though his shivering body was full of pain and misery, yet his heart was filled with deep, sweet peace, and joy and gratitude to his God, who had so marvelously heard his "call," and "delivered" him and saved him.

True to his promise, as soon as William was able, he found-his way to a company of the Lord's own people, and from them he heard the sweet story of the love of God in His provision for the salvation of poor lost sinners, through simple faith in the atoning death of His beloved Son.

With the faith of a little child, he eagerly and joyfully accepted God's priceless "gift of God which is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Thus his soul,_ as well as his body, was saved from perishing, for

"God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish but have everlasting life." John 3:16.

Through his long life of eighty-seven years William never faltered in the path of faith, and he did indeed fulfil the latter part of his verse, "Thou shalt glorify Me."

o, reader, if you have not yet heeded His call, let this story be a voice from God to you. Do not refuse to listen to this "still small voice," and so compel Him, as in William's case, to use the voice of thunder in some fierce trial, before volt will heed. Listen once more to His gracious invitation:

"Call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me." Psa. 50:15.

"O, do not let the word depart,

Nor close thine ears against His way;

Poor sinner, harden not thine heart;

Thou would'st be saved — Why not today?

To-morrow's sun may never rise,

To bless thee with its opening ray:

This is the time; o, then be wise;

Thou would'st be saved—Why not today?

Our God, in pity, lingers still;

And wilt thou thus His love repay?

Renounce at length thy stubborn will

Thou would'st be saved—Why not today?"

Messages of God’s Love 10/24/1926

Children at Play

O you remember any verse in the Bible, that speaks about boys and girls at play? I can tell you of one which says:

"The streets of the city shall be full of boys and girls playing in the streets thereof." Zech. 8:5. This city is Jerusalem, which will then be the grandest city in the world, when the Lord Jesus will be King over all the earth, and this will indeed be a happy time, for even the children will know the Lord, as we read:

"They shall all know Me, from the least of them unto the greatest of them, saith the Lord." Jer. 31:36.

And this, dear children, is the only way for you to be truly happy, to know Jesus as your Saviour, who died for your sins; and then, though we might think that He is too high and holy to care for the pleasures of children, yet you may be sure He is always looking down upon you in love, and He cares for you in even the least things that concern you. The Scripture says,

"Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?" Matt. 6:26. And again another Scripture,

"THE VERY HAIRS OF YOUR HEAD ARE ALL NUMBERED." Matt. 10:30

Messages of God’s Love 10/31/1926

Bible Lessons

2 Samuel 1

In the last chapter of 1St Samuel we learned how king Saul died, taking his own life by leaning upon the blade of his sword. A stranger, an Amalekite, who was at the battlefield, picked up Saul's crown and bracelet and thought to get a reward from David by going to him with them and claiming to have ended Saul's life. He naturally supposed that David would be very pleased indeed to learn that his enemy,—the man who stood between himself and the throne of Israel,—was dead.

With the outward marks of great grief, the Amalekite came to David and told his story, but its telling produced a very different effect than he had expected. David had always honored the king, even when Saul sought to kill him, and now in the bright prospect of an early end to his wanderings, in elevation to the throne of Israel for which God had long ago appointed him, the heart of 'David was filled with grief. Mourning and weeping and fasting until evening, David lamented the death of Saul and Jonathan, and of "the people of the Lord"—that the nation of

Israel, in a sense, and God's glory was touched in their defeat,—and of "the house of Israel" (the people viewed in a worldly way). Self-condemned in David's opinion, the Amalekite was put to death.

The children of Judah were to be taught to use the bow, the instrument of warfare by which Saul had been brought to his end. The book of Jasher (verse 18) is here mentioned a second time; the first reference to it is in Joshua chapter 10, verse 13. Nothing is now known of this book or its author or authors. "Jasher" means "upright," or "the upright." It was evidently a well-known book but not inspired; a history or book of poems.

David's lament over Saul and Jonathan is very touching. Not a word does it include of condemnation of the dead king who had done little to win his regard. "The beauty of Israel" was slain; the mighty were fallen. Asklon and Gath. principal cities of the Philistines,—the one on the seacoast and the other on their eastern border,—should not hear the news, lest the daughters of the enemy should rejoice.

It must have been a sad reflection for David that Saul and Jonathan were not divided (verse 23). The king's son loved David truly, but he was not willing to give up present things for the future, and the last we saw of him before the battlefield where he died with his father, was in 1 Samuel chapter 23, verse 18.

Esau made his choice in Genesis 25:32, 33; Moses decided in Exodus 2:11 (see Hebrews 11:24-26); Jonathan was unlike either, but he made a decision, and it cost him his life; he might have shared David's glory later on, but he would not give up the present world (see 2 Timothy 4:10).

Have you decided? And is your decision for Christ, or for the world? It is a momentous question.

Messages of God’s Love 10/31/1926

Arie

WHEN Arie was fifteen years old, from having been a strong, healthy boy, he was suddenly attacked with an illness which soon threatened to be fatal. Poor Arie knew not the Lord, although his parents, who were Christians, had often put the truth before him; but in health and strength, he had thought, as many do, that there was time enough to consider the things which belonged to his eternal peace, no doubt expecting to live to become a man and grow old. Thus he put off the serious consideration of what his parents taught him, to a future time.

Now, all at once death stared him in the face! Eternity! eternity, all before him, and he knew enough to know that he was utterly unfit to die, because he was a lost sinner! Yes, young as he was, he was old enough to be responsible for having heard, without receiving the Gospel of Christ. He had heard it again and again, and he had not believed in the Lord Jesus Christ.

What a solemn thing it is for young or old to despise the grace of God! Have you, reader, done so? It may be you have read the pages of "Messages of Love" for many months, it may even be for years, and each time you have done so, the gospel of the grace of God has been set before you. Have you received or neglected it? One or the other you must have done; and if the latter, if like Arie you have not believed to the saving of your soul, you are in the same danger he was in, and death threatened to cut him off in his sins. You may not have a moment's warning. How many are killed or die suddenly and have no time to think of their salvation then. 0 turn to the Lord now!

Arie became very anxious and distressed as he thought about the future, and when his father asked him if he was afraid to die, his answer was,

"Yes, for I am not prepared."

His father and mother both knelt and prayed for him, as they had often done, and as he listened to their prayers, how he wished he had given heed long before to the things he had heard so often!

The following day his parents again prayed beside his bed, and again poor Arie joined his supplications to theirs. Just as they had concluded, a friend of theirs, a Christian, came in to visit the dying boy, and he set simply and clearly before him the love of Christ in dying for sinners. And now the long-neglected message of grace came with power, and Arie believed and received it.

A few minutes after this happy change, he called to his mother, and said with a joyful countenance,

"The Lord has said, 'Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.' He is faithful and true. His word is truth. Whoever thus believes, to him the fear of death is past; and in the faith of Christ I can die now."

Then he lay down and prayed, and afterwards expressed a wish to have his brothers and sisters called to his bedside that he might take leave of them. When they gathered about him, he besought them all to come to Christ, adding,

"They that seek Me early shall find Me."

Cheerful to the last, without a shade of fear or sorrow, his was in the fullest sense a happy death bed. His poor mother said to him just at the close,

"It will be better soon, dear Arie."

He answered in a whisper, "Yes," then his eyes closed, and with a sigh he fell asleep in Jesus.

"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." Ecclesiastes 12:1.

How would it have been with you, dear reader, if instead of Arie, you had been called to die? Can you say, "I know the Lord Jesus as my Saviour. The fear of death is past, and in the faith of Christ can die now?"

Do not rest till you come to Him and take Him as your own Saviour, and whether He comes in the clouds of heaven to call all of His redeemed ones to be forever with Himself: or if death takes you, vou will be happy to go to be with Him.

"We shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is." 1 John 3:2.

Messages of God’s Love 10/31/1926

Little Hughie

LITTLE Hughie, a boy eight years old, when at his music lesson one day with his teacher, was playing the hymn,

"Safe in the Arms of Jesus."

When he had finished, he said to her,

"I can't bear to hear anyone sing that hymn."

"Why not?" asked the teacher.

"Because," he answered, "I can't help feeling that I am not 'Safe in the Arms of Jesus,' " and then he covered his face with his hands and began to cry.

It was a long time before his teacher could comfort him, or get him to listen to her, but after a while his sobs grew quieter.

"Hughie," she said, "there is no reason why you should not be safe, too; what is it that keeps you away from Jesus now?"

Hughie though a moment, and then answered,

"The sin in my heart."

Now Hughie was the son of Christian parents, and he had often been told about the Lord Jesus, and how He had died to save sinners, but he could not say, "Jesus has saved me." So his teacher reminded him of all that Jesus had done for him in order that his sins might be washed away. Hughie listened, thinking to himself, "I have heard all that lots of times; I know all about it."

But presently his teacher asked him, "Now Hughie, do you believe that Jesus died to save sinners? You have only to believe on Him, and you shall be saved."

Hughie was quiet for a 'little time, and then told his teacher he would think about what she had said, and went on with his music.

That night, when she went to read to him after he was in bed, she said, "Well, Hughie, are you 'Safe in the Arms of Jesus' yet?"

Hughie answered with a bright smile,

"Yes, I can say it now, and I have been saying it over all day—Jesus has saved me.' "

Little reader, are you safe? Has Jesus saved you?

"This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners." 1 Tim. 1:15.

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

Messages of God’s Love 10/31/1926

The City of Light

There's a city of light in a far-away land,

Where no death and no sorrow can come,

Where the ransomed of God shall eternally dwell,

In the sweet rest and quiet of Home.

In that city of light with its mansions so fair,

We will walk with our Saviour in white,

Not a pain, not a sigh, not a tear will be shed,

'Tis a city of purest delight.

And The Lamb is The Light of that city of gold,

No darkness will ever be there,

And nothing that ever defiles shall be known,

And His loved ones His glories shall share.

To that city of light soon the ransomed shall go,

When His shout shall be heard in the air,

And the living and dead, in a moment, shall rise

And dwell in that city so fair.

Messages of God’s Love 10/31/1926

Bible Questions for November

Answers to Bible Questions for September
"The Children's Class."

"And he said unto them," etc. Luke 16:15.

"But the other answering," etc. " 23:40.

"For nothing is secret," etc. " 8:17.

"And the angel," etc. " 1:35.

"He said unto them," etc. " 9:20.

"And when they had," etc. " 5:11.

"And the servant said," etc. " 14:22.

Bible Questions for November.
"The Children's Class."

The Answers are to be found in Acts.

Write in full the verse containing the words, "To Him give all the prophets witness."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "There is none other name under heaven."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Every soul which will not hear."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Given assurance unto all men."

Write in full the verse containing the words. "Justified from all things."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "From the power of Satan unto God."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "This same Jesus."

Answers to Bible Questions for September.
"The Young People's Bible Class."

Theophilus. Luke 1:1-4; Acts 1:1, 2.

Matthew goes back only to Abraham. Matt. 1:1, 2. Luke goes back to Adam. Luke 3:38.

"Forgiveness of sins, and Peace." Luke 7:48, 50.

What they shall eat and drink, and what they shall put on. Luke 12:22, 29, 30.

The poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind. Luke 14:13.

In Matthew it is the abomination of desolation standing in the holy place. Matt. 24:15. In Luke it is Jerusalem surrounded by armies. Luke 21:20.

"All the Scriptures." Luke 24:27.

Bible Questions for November.
"The Young People's Bible Class."’

The Answers are to be found in Acts.

When was the birthday of the Church?

Name the four things in which the apostolic Church "continued stedfastly".

What was the promise made to the "men of Galilee"?

Where were the disciples first called "Christians"?

Who was the first Christian martyr?

Who were the first Gentiles brought into the Church?

Into what three classes did Paul's Mar's Hill sermon divide his audience?

Messages of God’s Love 11/7/1926

Bible Lessons

2 Samuel 2

Now that Saul was dead, David may have been tempted to make himself king in his stead, but continuing his course of dependence on God, he inquired of Him, "Shall I go up into any of the cities of Judah?" and "Whither shall I go up?" Judah was David's own tribe; and Hebron, where he was directed to go, was the region in which Abraham and Sarah, Isaac and Jacob had lived and were buried, about 20 miles south of Jerusalem. Having arrived there with his two wives and his men and their families. David was anointed king of the tribe by the men of Judah. He was now thirty years of age (chapter 5:4).

Upon David's being told of the burial of Saul's body by the courageous men of Jabesh-gilead, he sent messengers to thank them and to tell them that he had been made king over the tribe of Judah. Five years appear to have passed without the other tribes of Israel having taken any steps to fill the dead king Saul's place. Then, though God had long before (1 Samuel 16) made known through Samuel the prophet, His purpose that 'David should be the next king, Ish-bosheth, the only remaining son of Saul, was made king over the people of Israel. It was Abner, the leader of Saul's army and Saul's cousin, who brought about the crowning of Ish-bosheth at Mahanaim, a place east of the Jordan quite close to Jabesh-gilead in the land of Gad.

It appears to have been Abner's purpose to get rid of David when he led an expedition as far as Gibeon, a few miles northwest of Jerusalem. There they were met by Joab, David's nephew, who became the head of his army, hut a bold unscrupulous, self-seeking man who afterward murdered Abner and Amasa and was himself put to death (1 Kings 2:31-34).

We cannot think that David was led of God to send out Joab and others to meet the followers of Saul's son, or that the fighting that took place was according to His mind, where Israelite killed Israelite. It is a sad part of David's history.

Messages of God’s Love 11/7/1926

The Answered Prayer

WHEN Willie reached home on this particular evening, he found his mother in tears. "What's the matter, mother?" he asked. His sorrowing mother simply answered, "Go away, my boy."

Again Willie asked, "What's the matter, mother?" with the same result, for she did not wish to burden her dear little son with her own heart's grief.

Still Willie pleaded, "Why are you crying, mother?" until she could withhold no longer, and explained her deep anxiety for the safety of his father. His father was a soldier, and was many hundred miles away from home. Day after day, she had been waiting and longing to receive a few lines, but the long expected letter had not come.

"Ask Jesus to send us a letter, mother," said Willie.

"What is the use of asking Him to send us a letter?"

"O mother, the teacher told us that what-so-ever we asked in prayer, believing, we should receive. Do ask Jesus to send us a letter!"

Willie was in earnest, but his mother was not at all inclined to comply with his request. He knelt down upon the floor, with his elbows resting in his mother's lap, prayed aloud,

"O, Lord, teacher told us, that whatsoever we ask, believing, we shall receive.

Do, please, Lord, send us a letter from father, for Jesus Christ's sake, Amen." Having made known to God his childish request, Willie went off to bed very contentedly. His first words to his mother the next morning were,

"Has the letter come mother?"

"Don't be foolish, my son, how can Jesus send us a letter from your father?''

"We asked Him to send us a letter from father, and I know He will," said Willie, and finding that the postman had not already knocked at the door, he pleaded that his mother would allow him to go to meet the postman, and get the looked-for letter, she at length reluctantly consented. He soon found the postman, and accosted him with,

"Have you a letter for my mother from father?"

"Who is your mother?"

"Mrs.____" replied Willie, and the good-natured postman put his hand into his bag, and pulled out a large package of letters. He untied the string, and in a moment or two, Willie was rushing homewards as fast as his little feet could carry him with the precious letter in his hand.

"There, mother, I knew Jesus would send us the letter!"

With a joyful heart the poor mother took it from him and opened it. It was indeed good news from a far country, for it told them that husband and father was in good health and hoping soon to return home.

Willie's faith was greatly strengthened by its exercise, and it made him a happy little Christian. The word accomplished even more than this, for Willie's dear mother was not only convinced by what had passed of the power of prayer, she also learned to put her trust in the living God.

"Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast Thou ordained strength." Psa. 8:2.

May this record of Willie's prayer and of its gracious answer, encourage all to ask of God, for He has said,

"Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you." Luke 11:9.

Messages of God’s Love 11/7/1926

A Perilous Journey

HERE is a picture of a stream, flowing through a very rocky mountainous part of the country. Even though there is water, there is no sign of trees or grass, and the place looks very much like a desert.

Climbing over the rocks is a woman with her precious burden. Where is she going? Where has she been? Perhaps she has just left her home to go and visit a friend. Whether that be so or not, the journey she is taking looks rough and full of peril, or dangers. But she knows the dangerous places and how to get over them, for she has always lived in that kind of country.

Dear reader, is not this a true picture of the Christian's journey through life? This world is full of dangers and perilous places. We are beset on every side by all kinds of sin and harmful temptations. But as long as we are content to cling to the Lord Jesus in confidence, as the little boy in the picture clings to his mother, we are safe, and He will help us over the rough and dangerous places.

Dear reader. you can not afford to get away from this blessed Guide. We need Him every day, every hour, and for every step. And if we see troubles and difficulties ahead that look unsurmountable, let us remember those precious and comforting words in Exodus 14:13,

"Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord."

"FEAR THOU NOT; FOR I AM WITH THEE: BE NOT DISMAYED; FOR I AM THY GOD." Isa. 41:10.

"I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness." Isa. 41:10.

Messages of God’s Love 11/7/1926

Hoping

ARE you a Christian?" said we to a young girl the other day, who we knew was anxious about her soul's salvation.

"I hope so," was the reply.

"Have you eternal life?"

At this second question the countenance dropped, and the tongue was silent.

Again we asked, "Did you ever thank God for the gift of eternal life?"

"I pray," was. the response.

"Christ is God's gift to sinners; those who possess God's gift have eternal life, and the forgiveness of their sins. Believe on Jesus, and give thanks to God for His gift of eternal life."

We proceeded to this text: "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"; and, having read it, inquired of our young friend, "Do you believe on the name of the Son of God?"

"I do," she answered; and we believed she did so most truthfully.

"You believe that He died for your sins upon the cross?"

"I do," was the response.

"Let us read the text again. 'These things have I written unto you'—now put your own name here—`that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life.' "

The darkness rolled away; God gave faith to our young friend, and she appropriated the gracious word to herself. Long afterwards she looked back with thankfulness to that night, as the occasion on which she passed out of darkness into Coil's marvelous light.

Messages of God’s Love 11/7/1926

The Nightingale

THE nightingale is a small bird and has a beautiful song .in the night. Is not that a strange time to have a song? I am sure most of you will think so, but God has made some to sing during the day, and others to sing during the night.

So it is with us—the Lord can give us a song in the night. That does not mean simply the literal night, but the night is the time of darkness. We all get our dark times in this life, and we are sad, but when we go to the Lord about the trials, and remember that He loves us with the same measure of love that caused Him to die in our place, then we can sing and praise Him, and say, "He doeth all things well."

Now, my young reader may not know much about sorrow, but you have difficulties, and if you know the Lord Jesus as your own Saviour, it is your privilege to tell Him all the little trials that come across your path, then you can sing,

"One there is above all others—

O how He loves!

His is love beyond a brother's-

O how He loves.!

Earthly friends may fail or leave us,

One day soothe, the next day grieve us,

But this Friend will ne'er deceive us

O how He loves!

Joy and peace it is to know Him

O how He loves!

Think, O think how much we owe Him

O how He loves!

With His precious blood He bought us,

In the wilderness He sought us,

To His loved ones safely brought us

O how He loves!"

"YEA, I HAVE LOVED THEE WITH AN EVERLASTING LOVE." Jer. 31:3.

Messages of God’s Love 11/14/1926

Bible Lessons

2 Samuel 3

THE Holy Spirit, the divine Author of God's Word has chosen to pass by several years of David's life at this period with but little detail.

David was king at Hebron over the tribe of Judah, and Ish-bosheth, Saul's one surviving son, was king over the other tribes of Israel; the position of David grew stronger, and that of Ish-bosheth weaker, as the time passed. Six children were born to David while he lived at Hebron; three of them had violent deaths—Amnon, Absalom and Adonijah,—and of the other three Scripture tells nothing more than their Flames. We shall not anticipate what later chapters bring out, save to remark that the sad course of David's children did not begin until their father fell into terrible sin. God is not mocked, and "whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap!" (see chapter 12:9, 10).

Through an angry dispute between Ishbosheth and his warrior leader Abner, was the son of Saul seriously weakened. Abner, offended at his master, turned from him to David, so that he offered to bring the people of the whole land to accept 'David as their king. David demanded and obtained his first wife, Michal, who had been given to another man. And Abner went to the elders of Israel and of Benjamin, reminding them that they had before wanted David to be king, and that God had chosen him for that purpose. Then he went to David and arranged with him to gather the nation to him, to receive him as their king.

When Abner had gone away again, Joab came back to Hebron from an expedition with David's fighting men, and it was told him that Abner had been to the king who had sent him away in peace. Joab thereupon went to David, angry that Abner had been treated in such fashion and as the sequel shows, determined upon his murder. He sent messengers after Abner, unknown to David, and when he came back, Joab, on the pretense of speaking to him peaceably, stabbed him to death.

The shocking murder being made known to David, was disowned by him in the plainest terms, but though he expressed the hope that God would not pass the guilt of it, but visit it upon Joab, David did not punish his nephew. He called upon Joab and all the people to mourn Abner's death, and 'David went to the funeral, weeping and lamenting at the grave, nor would he eat until the evening. The king's behavior in the matter of Abner's murder pleased the people, but he was weak as he himself said (verse 39), for the murderer went unpunished for his deed.

Messages of God’s Love 11/14/1926

Emma's Hymn

EMMA'S father was a worldly man. He stayed out late at nights, with ungodly men. Her mother died when she was five years old, and the dear child was brought up by a housekeeper, who was very kind to her.

She had no companions, and was often very lonely at nights. Her father seemed to have little interest in her, and seldom spent an evening in the house. A kind lady who had known Emma's mother sometimes invited the lonely child to spend the evening with her children, and this greatly cheered and delighted Emma.

Once a week, there was a children's meeting in a hall close by, and to this meeting Emma sometimes went, along with these children. There was a favorite hymn often sung at this meeting, the first verse of which is—

"We know there's a bright and glorious home,

Away in the heavens high,

Where all the redeemed shall with Jesus dwell;

But will you be there and I?"

Emma learned this hymn, and resolved that she would sing it at night to her father, and pray to God to bless it to his soul.

When he returned from his office at night, Emma was sitting on the sofa singing—

"We know there's a bright and a glorious home."

"What's this you have to-night, child?" said her father as he sat down to tea. "Who taught you that?"

So Emma told about the meeting, and the happy hour she had spent there, to which her father made no reply. She thought he was offended, but to her surprise, when he had finished his tea, instead of hurrying away to his club as usual, he sat down beside her on the sofa, and taking her hand in his, looked very sad.

"Are you ill, father, dear?" asked Emma.

"No, my child, but I want to stay beside you to-night, if you will sing that pretty hymn."

Emma was delighted and taking her hymn book, sang the hymn right through. When she had finished, she saw a tear drop from her father's eye. That was so unusual, that she felt sure the words had reached his heart.

This was the beginning of his soul-anxiety. For several weeks he remained in the house, and read many books, but still no light, no peace came to him.

At last one of his employers who was a Christian, and noticed his dejected look, asked him if anything was wrong. He told him the whole story of Emma's song, and how it had aroused him to think of eternity.

That night his employer invited him to his house, and there he found the Lord as his Saviour, and passed from death to life.

Emma and her father, after this, often sat together for an evening reading and singing together their favorite hymn—

"Will you be there and I?"

"I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth." Rom. 1:16.

Messages of God’s Love 11/14/1926

A Cheerful Giver

THERE is a little text in our Bible that reads thus: "God loveth a cheerful giver," and I was thinking of this text when I heard of how a farmer and his wife acted.

They had been to a missionary meeting, where the question of giving away copies of the Bible to the poor had been talked over, and how much money would be wanted to carry out the purpose.

When they came home, the wife said that she would like to put aside $10.00 a year for the purpose, but the farmer replied that he intended to give $10.00 a year, and he did not think they could afford $20.00, but she reminded him that he had given her S10.00 a few days before to buy a hive of bees, and she would rather give the money for the Lord's work, and go without the bees.

They agreed to this, and strange to say the next day a swarm of bees settled on a tree in their garden, and was soon safely placed in an empty hive.

The farmer and his wife were both struck with this circumstance. It seemed as if the Lord were rewarding them for giving money for His service, and they made up their minds that all the honey that came from this hive of bees should be given to the Lord, and also any other swarms that might come from the same hive.

This little colony of bees increased so fast that after a few years quite a large sum of money was given away year by year.

"He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully." 2 Cor. 9:6, 7.

Messages of God’s Love 11/14/1926

Tommy's Faith

A TEACHER in a large school was one day giving a lesson in geography to a class of the youngest boys. In the course of the lesson, she had occasion to speak of the size and shape of the earth on which we live; its roundness like a ball or an orange, and of many other things which seem strange and wonderful.

At the close of the lesson, the teacher, in order to ascertain what her pupils had learned, commenced to ask them about it.

The first few questions were answered very well, every boy seeming quite sure that the earth was round like an orange. But the next question caused' a complete stop, and not a hand was seen uplifted to signal that a reply was forth-coming.

The teacher had asked for a proof that the earth was round, and thirty or more busy brains were hard at work trying to solve the difficulty, and win the honor of answering this hard question. Again the question was asked,

"Now, tell me, how do you know that the earth is round like an orange?"

But still no answer; just, however, as the teacher was about to explain, a hand darted up from the middle of the class, and all eyes were turned upon Tommy. The teacher at once put the question,

"Well, Tommy, how can you prove that the earth is round?"

Tommy looked round in triumph on the rest of the class for a moment, and then answered,

"Because you say so."

Now this was faith. Tommy believed that the earth was round, because his teacher said so, and he knew no better proof. He had faith in his teacher that she would not deceive him: his teacher's word was enough, and Tommy rested satisfied.

How many have exercised a simple faith like this little boy's in the matter of their own souls' salvation. How many boys and girls there are who will confess they are sinners, and as such unfit for the presence of God, and for heaven, and yet have never taken God at His word. He says,

"All have sinned." Rom. 3:23.

"Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners." 1 Tim. 1:15.

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

Messages of God’s Love 11/14/1926

Watching

HOW many things we see in this interesting picture! The man has stopped playing his accordion, the woman standing up has stopped making the tea, and the women at the table have stopped talking—all to watch the kitten on the man's shoulder.

Kittens are very playful little creatures, and we all like to watch them.

But is there anyone else interested in kitty? Yes, the mother cat is watching very intently. She is not only interested. but also uneasy for fear her baby may fall and get hurt. So she is watching carefully, all ready to help the kitten, and even to fight for it, if it gets into trouble.

Does this remind you of a verse in God's Word?

"The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, and His ears are open unto their cry." Psalm 34:15.

Just as the mother cat has her eyes fixed on the kitten she loves, and is listening for any cry of fear or distress, so the Lord's eyes are fixed upon us, and His ear is always open to hear our cry, if we call upon Him for help.

"Preserve me O God, for in Thee do I put my trust." Psalm 16:1.

"IT IS BETTER TO TRUST IN THE LORD THAN TO PUT CONFIDENCE IN MAN." Psalm 118:8.

Messages of God’s Love 11/21/1926

Bible Lessons

2 Samuel 4

This short chapter contains another sad page in the history of the children of Israel. Ishbosheth, Saul's son, who had by this time been recognized as king over all the tribes of Israel, except that of Judah, for something like two years and a half, was much depressed at the news of the murder of Abner upon whom he depended. It had been Abner's work, and not Ish-bosheth's to put the latter on the throne of Israel (chapter 2, verse 8), and we perhaps rightly judge that Saul's son was not a man of strong character. Those who owned him as king were troubled, when Abner was dead, and rightly so, for the strong man of the kingdom was gone.

It was God's purpose, as we have before noticed, that David, and not a son of Saul, should rule over this people, and that end would have been reached by His means and in His own time. Instead, another shocking murder is committed, and that not by a jealous rival, as when Joab took the life of Abner, but by professed friends and supporters of the house of Saul, captains of Ish-bosheth's soldiers.

Like the Amalekite of the first chapter, these murderers thought to be rewarded for the news they brought to David. But David, again taught of God, though he had failed in regard to Joab, refused to consider his personal gain, and commanded that the two Benjamites should be put to death and their bodies exposed to public view.

The five year old son of Jonathan, Mephibosheth, crippled by a fall at the time that the Philistines defeated and killed Saul and his sons,—Jonathan, Abinadab and Malchi-shua,—is mentioned in the fourth verse. God had him marked out for blessing, showing how divine mercy can work in the midst of evil. The ninth chapter brings Mephibosheth before us again.

Messages of God’s Love 11/21/1926

God's Lamb for Me

MANY years ago there was a little girl named Annie. She had heard the glad tidings of God's salvation, and her heart was won to love the Lord who had died on the cross to put away her sins.

Her joy in the knowledge that they were all forgiven was very great, and she gladly confessed her faith in the Saviour to all around, and they rejoiced that another had been added to the family of God.

But after a time her happiness seemed to have left her, and her voice was no more heard singing sweet hymns as she ran about the house.

All noticed the change in her behavior, and, finding her alone in the sitting room one morning, I asked her what was the cause of the unhappy change.

"0," she said, "I am so miserable, I am afraid the Lord Jesus is not my Saviour after all. that I do not really believe in Him, and that my sins are not forgiven."

"But you told us something very different to that not very long ago."

"Yes, I thought it was true then, but now I feel I made a mistake and I am afraid I am not really a child of God, or a true believer in the Lord Jesus Christ."

I saw that the enemy had turned her thoughts in upon herself, and that she was occupied with her poor faith and love instead of the perfect work and the perfect love of the Lord Jesus Christ.

So I turned to the Old Testament and read a portion of the first chapter of Leviticus. It speaks of those who would bring an offering unto the Lord, and how that such a one should put his hand upon the head of the animal offered.

I stopped there, and looking at Annie said, "You see this man brought a lamb for his acceptance because, being a sinful Israelite, he could not be acceptable to God in himself, then he put his hand on the head of the lamb. What did he mean by doing this?"

"I think he meant that he wanted God to accept the lamb instead of him," Annie replied.

"Very well," I said, "and have you ever heard of some One who is called the Lamb of God in the Bible?"

"0 yes," she said, "The Lord Jesus Christ."

"Now I want to ask you a question, `Do you deserve that God should accept you?'

"No," she replied, "I am only a sinful girl."

I then turned to another part of Scripture and read the text,

"All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord bath laid on Him the iniquity of us all." Isa. 53:6.

"You see, the Lord Jesus is the sin-offering as well as the burnt-offering, and God laid all our sins on Him when He died on the cross. For we read,

`Who His own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree.' "

"Can you Annie, like the Israelite, put your hand on the head of God's Lamb and say,

`O God, I am a sinful girl, and do not deserve that Thou shouldst accept me, but please accept Thy Lamb, the Lord Jesus, instead of me?' "

"Yes, that is just what I want," she replied.

"And can you do so now?"

"Yes, I can and do," she said.

"Now I will read again," I said, "And it shall be accepted for him to make atonement for him."

"For whom was the Lamb accepted?" "For the man who put his hand on its head," she answered.

"And where is the Lord Jesus now?" I asked. "Is He still on the cross or in the tomb?"

"No," she replied, "He is in heaven at God's right hand."

"Well, did He take your sins there?" "No, He could not do that!"

"Then where are they?" She thought for a moment, and then joy filled her heart as she replied,

"They must be gone!"

"And God has accepted Christ?"

"Yes, of course He has!" she exclaimed.

Next I turned to Ephesians 1 and read verse 6, "In whom He bath made us accepted in the Beloved."

"Who is the Beloved?" I asked. "The Lord Jesus Christ," she answered.

"And who are the `US' who are accepted in Him?"

"Those who put their hands on di( head of God's Lamb," she said at once.

"That was what you did just now, was it not?"

"Yes!" she replied, and a bright look spread over her face.

"What does God say then about you and me?"

"That we are accepted in the Beloved." So we knelt together and praised God for His great goodness to us through our Lord Jesus Christ.

Messages of God’s Love 11/21/1926

Maggie's Three Texts

WELL Maggie, how does the matter stand between you and God?" a little girl was once asked.

"There is no matter between us, now, sir, it is all settled."

"All settled! Who has settled the matter, Maggie?"

"The Father and the Lord Jesus settled it."

"Do you really think the matter is settled?"

"I don't think, I am sure it is settled, for He said on the cross, 'It is finished.'

He died under the judgment of God for my sins, He loved me and gave Himself for me. It is plain to me at last. It was those three blessed texts—Sins put away, Sins forgiven, and Remembered no more."

"It is finished." John 19:30.
"Forgiveness." Acts 13:38.
"Remembered no more." Heb. 10:17.

Messages of God’s Love 11/21/1926

God Answers Prayer

NOT long ago there was a poor man, who through sickness, had been unable to give his family their usual supply of food. He lived in a lonely cottage, half a mile from any of his neighbors. He had struggled on without asking relief, till starvation was at the door. The man had no money, and there was nothing but bare need in his little cottage.

Night came, and the family went to bed hungry, and very hungry they rose in the morning. But there was nothing to eat. What could they do? They could cry to the God of the needy, and He heard their cry.

"This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles. The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear Him, and delivereth them. 0 taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in Him." Psa. 34:7-9.

The neighbors could not hear the cry of the desolate family, but God, who could hear and did hear, put a thought of them into the heart of a kind lady. The thought was this—go at once, and carry a
loaf to the poor cottage on the hill.

And as the thought troubled her, though it was early in the morning, and the lady had had no breakfast, she started at once on her errand.

When she reached the door, she heard the poor man praying and saying,

"O Lord, help me. Lord. Thou wilt help me, Thy promise cannot fail; although my wife and children have no bread to eat, and it has been a whole day since we have had any food, I know Thou wilt supply our needs."

The lady then opened the door and gave the answer the needy man was expecting.

"Yes," she said, "God will supply your needs, and He has sent you this."

All God's gifts remind us that He loves us, and is ready to give perfect and eternal gifts.

"The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord." Rom. 6:23.

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

Messages of God’s Love 11/21/1926

Come to the Saviour

Come to the Saviour, O sin-stricken soul!

To the streams from the fountain which cleanseth the soul—

The blood and the water that came from His side,

When Jesus, the Saviour of sinners, had died.

'Tis the blood that alone for the soul can atone,

Saith the High and the Holy that sits on the throne;

The blood of Christ Jesus atonement bath made,

Thus now for the soul a foundation is laid.

Trust not to thy works, build not on thy deeds,

These never, O never! can meet thy soul's needs.

'Tis faith in His blood whom God bath set forth,

Alone is of value, alone is of worth.

Believe in the Saviour! O, make no delay!

For Jesus is coming to take us away:

And, O precious soul, if washed in the blood.

Thou wilt live thy forever in the glory of God.

Messages of God’s Love 11/21/1926

Winter

THE people in our picture seem very happy. The children as well as the older ones look well prepared too, for their travels on the ice. What a good time they seem to be having! But I wonder if they are among the number who have a right to be happy? It is only as the love of Jesus is in our hearts that we really have the right to be happy. The unsaved one does not know where he may be the very next hour. God's Word says,

"Boast not thyself of tomorrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth."

An eternity away from Jesus is the saddest thing that we can think of. How different it is with a saved person! He can be truly happy under any circumstances. Should death suddenly overtake such a one, it is "to, be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord." 2 Cor. 5:8.

Now the question for you to answer is, do you really have the right to be happy? Satan sometimes makes people seem to be happy, who, away down in their hearts, are really not. Make sure that he is not deceiving you by giving you good times and other things to make you think you are happy. To know Jesus as your own Saviour and Lord, can alone satisfy your heart.

"HAPPY IS THAT PEOPLE WHOSE GOD IS THE LORD." Psa. 144:15

Messages of God’s Love 11/28/1926

Bible Lessons

2 Samuel 5

Without effort on David's part the throne of Israel was now at last his. There had been bloodshed; but he was not connected with it, and the nation turns to David, the long absent, long neglected, but at the same time the long promised one. We see again in David's history likeness to Christ who when He returns to reign will at first be King of Judah, and afterward bring the whole nation of Israel into subjection to Himself.

Jerusalem is first named in the Scriptures in Joshua 10; Joshua 15:63; and Judges 1:8,21 speak of it as captured in part; the children of Israel could not drive the inhabitants out, but shared the city with them. Four hundred years later, David made it the capital city of Israel. There, after another 1075 years Jesus died, the Just for the unjust, to bring us to God. From its eastern hill, the Mount of Olives, He ascended to heaven, and to it He will return (Zechariah 14). It is last mentioned in Revelation 20:9 as "the beloved city", at the close of the Millennium.

The Jehusites, inhabitants of Jerusalem, thought to keep David from taking possession of the city, but he took the strong hold (fortress) of Zion, the higher part of it, on the southwest. From 1 Chronicles 11:6 we learn that Joab, of whose treacherous act of blood we read in the third chapter, at this time became the head of the army, a place hitherto held by David himself.

David became continually greater, and God was with him. Hiram, king of the important northern seacoast city of Tyre, acknowledged David, sending materials and men to build him a house. David saw that God had established him as king, and had exalted his kingdom because of His people Israel.

But now that David's suffering days are over, and power is in his hands, nature asserts itself: he takes more concubines and wives out of Jerusalem. Trial is needed to restore his soul, and this comes in an invasion by the Philistines who encamped in the valley of Rephaim, "Valley of the giants." Perhaps this name brought to David's memory his encounter with Goliath. He "inquired of the Lord", as he had done before (1 Samuel 23:2,4,11, 12; 30:8; 2 Samuel 2:1); this is always the source of power for the Christian. Victory resulted, and David owned it as God's, not his own.

The Philistines came again, and David again prayed for guidance; it was not enough for him to have once prayed. "Continue (or persevere) in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving," is the word in Colossians 4:2. Specific direction was given for meeting the Philistines, for was not God the Lord God of Hosts (verse 10) to fight His people's battles on this occasion?

In the wonderful fortieth chapter of Isaiah He is called the "everlasting God, the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth," Who gives "power to the faint, and to them that have no might He increaseth strength .. . . They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength." Happy and safe are all who trust in Him!

Messages of God’s Love 11/28/1926

Left Behind

WHEN I was a little child, I dreamed one night, that I was sitting in the garden waiting for the coming of the Lord Jesus. It seemed to be the day fixed for Him to come for His people, and I wanted to go too. I waited for some time, but could not see Him coming, and, at last, I found out that the Lord had indeed returned and was gone back again, but alas! I was "left behind." O how sad I felt at the thought of being "left behind," but someone told me, "He's coming again tomorrow," and I was comforted, because there was still hope for me.

Now, dear children, this was only a dream, but it is quite true the Lord Jesus will come in the clouds someday. He has not told us what day, but He has promised to come again, to receive those who love and trust Him, unto Himself. What a happy day it will be for those who are ready when He comes for them —they shall see Him, and be like Him, and be forever with Him. 0 how delightful! But how very sad for those who are not ready, they will be "left behind."

How will it be with you? Some of you have fathers and mothers, some have brothers and sisters who are Christians. They will be "caught up" to meet Him.

Will you be "left behind."

Remember, dear children, He will never "come again tomorrow" for you. When He comes and takes away all of His own redeemed ones, He will then shut the door of mercy, and those "left behind" will cry, saying, "Lord, Lord open to us," but it is then too late.

"Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation." 2 Cor. 6:2.

Messages of God’s Love 11/28/1926

Wicked Jim

Jim was the terror of the village. All the boys and girls shunned him, and not without cause. His language was generally abusive and very bad. His actions were little better. He kept a farmer's cows in a meadow, alongside of which was a path to the village school, and Jim was in the habit of teasing, and often striking the children as they passed along.

Poor Jim! he had no kind parents to look after him, or to tell him of the love of Jesus to poor sinners. His father and mother were dead, so he was taken in hand by a farmer, whose cows he kept.

One afternoon as the children were coming from school, Jim sat swinging on a branch of a tree, stretching over the river. He seemed to be enjoying himself, and when the boys and girls came in sight, he shouted loudly to attract their attention. They stood astonished at his bravery, in swinging so merrily over the river, which at that place was very deep.

When Jim saw that the children were watching him, he increased his speed, which made the branch break, carrying him with it into the water below.

There was a loud cry from the scholars when they saw Jim fall, and some of them rushed down the hill to the river, where Jim was struggling to keep his head above water, and clinging to the broken branch of the tree.

"Help! Help!" cried the drowning boy; but there was no help near but the scholars, most of whom were too frightened to go near the water.

Two girls and a boy, older than the rest, got hold of a long piece of wood, lying by the gate and carrying it to the river-side, pushed it toward Jim, who was still struggling in the deep water. Jim caught hold of the end of it, and they pulled him to the edge of the river. They landed Jim on the bank, dripping wet and quite exhausted.

That incident changed Jim's conduct towards the scholars,—he troubled them no more. Ever after he was kind to them. He saw by their efforts to save him from being drowned, that they cared for him, and this changed his feelings toward them.

When sinners believe that Jesus loves them, and gave Himself to die, in order that they might be saved from sin and hell, they love Him in return—not to earn His love, or in order to be saved, but just because He has loved them and saved them already.

"We love Him, because He first loved us." 1 John 4:19.

Jim is now a man, and better still, a Christian; saved by Jesus Christ. His special work is seeking out friendless and destitute boys, such as he was, and leading them to the Saviour.

Messages of God’s Love 11/28/1926

A Little Girl's Text

SOME time ago while visiting at the hospital I met a little girl who had been confined to her bed for several weeks. I would judge she was six years of age, but was very small. She always seemed so bright and cheerful, and did much to liven the ward that was occupied by grown persons.

I gave her a copy of "Messages of Love" each time I saw her, which interested her very much, though she could not read at all. I asked her if she could quote any verses from the Bible, and she said she could, and repeated one that was a favorite of hers which she had learned at Sunday-school. It was,

"What time I am afraid, I will trust in Thee." Psa. 56:3.

I have thought of the little girl's verse many times since, and think it is a very good one. There are many passages of Scripture that bear out this same thought. Many are the blessings pronounced upon the one whose trust is in the Lord, such as the following,

"Blessed is the man that trusteth in the Lord, and whose hope the Lord is." Jer. 17:7.

"He that trusteth in the Lord, mercy shall compass him about." Psa. 32:10.

"Whoso trusteth in the Lord, happy is he." Prov. 16:20, and many others.

It would seem that the Lord takes special delight in the one who trusts Him, and how much reason we have for having perfect trust and confidence in Him. He gives us from day to day so many blessings which we enjoy, and besides all these temporal blessings, He has provided a way in which our souls may be saved, and with the same open and loving hand is offering this greatest blessing free to all.

Christ has proved His great love to us by dying on the cross to put our sins away, and to make us fit to go and live with Him in His happy home in heaven.

Who would not trust One who had done so much for us?

Such love is enough to win our hearts. Indeed, it would not be difficult to trust One who had proved His love so dearly.

Then come to Him, dear reader, and believe the message, for it is this that brings the blessing. It must be mixed with faith in them that hear it.

"Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." Rom. 5:1.

Messages of God’s Love 11/28/1926

What Will You Do With Jesus?

O, what will you do with Jesus?

The call comes low and clear;

The solemn words are sounding

In every listening ear;

Eternal life's in the question,

And joy through eternity;

Then, what will you do with Jesus?

0, what shall the answer be?

What shall the answer be?

What will you do with Jesus?

O, what shall the answer be?

O, think of the Lord of Glory,

From heaven to earth come down;

His life so pure and holy;

His death, His cross, His crown;

Of His divine compassion,

His sacrifice for thee,

Then what will you do with Jesus?

O, what shall the answer be?

Messages of God’s Love 11/28/1926

Bible Questions for December

Answers to Bible Questions for October
"The Children's Class"

"And this is life eternal," etc. John 17:3.

"And the Word was," etc. " 1:14.

"All that the Father," etc. " 6:37.

"Verily, verily, I say unto," etc. " 5:24.

"So when they had dined," etc. " 21:15.

"And when he putteth," etc. " 10:4.

"Jesus said unto her," etc. " 11:25.

Bible Questions for December.
"The Children's Class"

The Answers are to be found in Romans

Write in full the verse containing the words, "All have sinned."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "The wages of sin is death."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Every knee shall bow to me."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "If thou shalt confess."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "Faith is counted for righteousness."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "He that spared not His Own Son."

Write in full the verse containing the words, "The God of hope."

Answers to Bible Questions for October
"The Young People's Bible Class"

"World", Jno. 1:9; "Sent", Jno. 3:17; "Believe", Jno. 1:7; "Love", Jno. 3:16.

Changing water to wine. Jno. 2. Raising Lazarus. Jno. 11. Sight to the blind man. Jno. 9.

John 15:18, 19; Jno. 17:14.

No. John 4:2.

Nicodemus. Jno. 7:50; Joseph of Arimathea. Jno. 19:38.

Sin, Jno. 16:9; Righteousness, Jno. 16:10; Judgment, Jno. 16:11.

"That ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that believing ye might have life through His name." Jno. 20:31.

Bible Questions for December
"The Young People's Bible Class"

The Answers are to be found in Romans

Why was Paul not ashamed of the gospel of Christ?

What is the threefold blessedness of those whom David described?

How did sin and death get into the world?

What did Paul know about his flesh?

What fact must we believe in the heart in order to be saved?

How long will Israel continue blinded?

Who had a church in their house?

Messages of God’s Love 12/5/1926

Bible Lessons

2 Samuel 6

A right purpose was in David's heart: the ark of God which had been allowed to stay in the house of Abinadab at Kirjath-jearim during all of Saul's forty years' reign, and over twenty years before that (see 1 Samuel 7:1,2), should be brought to the place of honor in the kingdom. But how should it be brought? The Scriptures which David and his people had, plainly told that the sons of Kohath of the tribe of Levi should carry the ark by means of staves passed through rings attached to its sides, but they were not to touch the ark; only the priests could do that (Numbers 1:50, 51,53; 3:31; 4:15). But the Word of God was neglected, and the pattern for what was done was found in the Philistine priests' "new cart" drawn by cows (1 Samuel 6:7).

How much of this kind of thing is seen in our own day! At a great sacrifice of the truth and testimony of God, Christians are formed after the model of the men of the world, because they think of themselves, plan for themselves, while seeking to honor God. Is His Word not enough? Note carefully the words of the aged apostle Paul to Timothy (2 Timothy 3:14-17) in view of the "perilous times" of the "last days" in which we unquestionably now are.

Notwithstanding the "new cart," the godly Abinadab's sons going before and driving it, and the great and impressive strains of music with which the journey was begun, was begun with disobedience, and ended in judgment, for the nearer a man is to God, the more solemnly will he be dealt with for departure from His word. But, let it be remembered, His word also says that if judgment "first begin at us, what shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God? Where shall the ungodly and the sinner appear?" 1 Peter 4:17,18.

Something after the way of Joshua, after the defeat of Ai ( Joshua 7:6-9) was David's behavior upon the death of Abinadab's son. Pained and alarmed, he left the ark in the house of Obed-edom until the news came to him that God had blessed that family. How slow we are to apprehend the mind of God, to judge in ourselves the cause of some painful dealing! David truly desired God's glory, but he did not understand its greatness, and he had forgotten the majesty of Him with whom we have to do.

God is a blesser, and His loving interest in those who in any measure honor Him is presently shown. Then David, in heart restored, caused the ark to be brought after the divine order (see 1 Chronicles 15:2, 13-15, etc.). The sneer of his wife Michal did not move him, since he had acted before God. "I will", said he, "yet be more vile than thus, and will be base in mine own sight." May the same spirit of self-renunciation mark all the children of God, to His praise!

Messages of God’s Love 12/5/1926

A Little While

Yet a little while, and He that shall come will come, and will not tarry." Hebrews 10:37. No doubt many of our dear readers may remember that this precious text was used recently upon two separate occasions in the "Messages of Love",—namely on Sept. 26th and Oct. 10th.

Two weeks intervene, in which these same words were repeated. Many of us can and do repeat them to ourselves and to others. What grace that we are enabled to do so, and with what happy expectation!

Did it ever occur to you, dear ones, that as we read these precious words from time to time, we are really and truly that much nearer to the fulfilment of this text, "Yet a little while, and He that shall come will come, and will not tarry"?

You will remember that the picture of Oct. 10th shows a mother with her baby boy on her back looking for someone, and this "someone" was their very own. The day had been only "a little while", though no doubt it had seemed long to them, but now they were really looking for the one they both loved.

Dear children, the day is far spent, and our blessed Lord is coming in "a little while". Are we really looking for Him? Would we love to hear His blessed voice? Is it the greatest desire of our hearts to see our precious Saviour who loved us, and who so delighted to do His Father's will that He died for us, the Just for the unjust that He might bring us to God?

All this brings to mind a little nephew of ours, Ernest by name, about 7 years of age. Last summer we had promised to visit the family, and wrote to them the day we expected to go, but could not tell the hour in which we would arrive there. On driving up to their house, the first one we saw was little Ernest watching for us. He saw us, and knew who we were, though he had never seen us before. He knew we belonged to Him.

We were told that he was up early that morning, and had gone out on the front porch to watch for us, and there he stayed. At noon he did not want to go in for his lunch, but asked his mother to bring it out on the porch to him. He watched and waited until he was rewarded by being one of the first to see us arrive. It would have been useless to tell this little fellow that we were not coming, for we had written we were coming, he believed us, and so he watched and waited for us.

O, dear children, are you watching and waiting for any one with the same sure and certain expectancy? If you know the Lord Jesus Christ the Saviour of sinners, as your own Saviour, you may watch and wait for Him, for He has said, "Behold, I come quickly," and while He has not told us the year, month, day nor hour in which He will come, we know He is coming very soon.

"What I say unto you I say unto all, Watch." Mark 13:37.

Messages of God’s Love 12/5/1926

The Spoiled Picture

AFTER taking a careful look at our front page, you will probably decide that the children's father has been painting a picture.

While he is in the house saying goodbye to Mother, the children have gotten the paint-brush and paints, and are having a good time adding something to the picture.

But what do you think Father will say when he comes out and sees what they have done? Can't you just hear him saying,

"Children, you've spoiled my picture. I'll have to do it all over again."

Many, many years ago, God made this earth and the trees and flowers and animals. You can read all about it in the first chapter of the Bible.

The 31St verse of Genesis 1, says, "And God saw everything that He had made, and behold it was very good."

Then God planted a very beautiful garden, called the "Garden of Eden."

He put Adam and Eve in this garden, and told them what they might do and what they might not do. But they disobeyed God and sinned.

Then came sorrow and suffering as a result of sin, and God's beautiful work was spoiled, just like the painting in our picture today.

So God will make a new earth where there will be no sin.

"NEVERTHELESS, WE, ACCORDING TO HIS PROMISE, LOOK FOR NEW HEAVENS AND A NEW EARTH, WHEREIN DWELLETH RIGHTEOUSNESS." 2 Peter 3:13

Messages of God’s Love 12/5/1926

Jesus Loves You

SUFFER the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not: for of such is the kingdom of God." Mark 10:14.

Little children, Jesus loves you,

He loves you—yes, indeed;

Why, He came from heaven on high—

He came to meet your need.

Think! He laid aside His glory,

To come to earth below,

To save our souls from misery,

And everlasting woe.

Jesus died for you, dear children,

To put your sins away,

And fit you for His home in heaven

In everlasting day.

Yes, Jesus died on Calvary,

Upon that cross of shame,

That you might ever happy be

O, blessed be His name!

O, come to Jesus, trust in Him,

He waits to meet you now;

His precious blood cleanses from sin,

And washes white as snow.

Messages of God’s Love 12/5/1926

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 no 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" far more terrible than the one suggested 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. Thousands, millions of precious souls are hastening on, engrossed in pleasure and business—heedless of this storm that threatens.

"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

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"? O, 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 bath everlasting life." John 6:47.

There with happy children,

Robed in snowy white,

I shall see the Saviour,

In that world so bright.

Messages of God’s Love 12/12/1926

Bible Lessons

2 Samuel 7

The same desire for the glory of God which actuated David in the incidents of the sixth, chapter, comes in view in what we read here. David was troubled because he had a house of cedar, while the dwelling place of God on earth—the tabernacle,—was a tent, and he wished to build a house for Him. The desire seemed a good one to Nathan the prophet, but it could not be granted because the time for rest had not come. War was not a thing of the past. David was a type of Christ as suffering and conquering, reestablishing among God's people the glory of His name, but his son and heir, Solomon, was to be a type of Christ as the Prince of Peace; he should build the house, when wars were over.

And that God Who had taken David from the sheepcote, Who was with him whithersoever he went, and had placed him on the throne of Israel, He would make His servant David a house (verse 11). David was more than a type; he was the source of that family from which Christ Himself was afterward to spring as the word of God to Nathan implies, though David's Son was David's Lord; the Root of David indeed (Revelation 5:5).

The revelation which God thus made of His purposes, deeply moved the heart of David, and he went in before Him, not to rejoice in his own good fortune, so to speak, but to bless the Author of it all. Rightly taking a low place, he boasted of the grace of God to him,—so unlike the manner of man. God knew His servant, and in this lay his confidence, and joy. It was for His Word's sake, and according to His own heart that He thus had spoken. David is here a worshiper, occupied with the one Who had won his heart,—a pattern for the follower of Christ in this day. 0, to see more of this among God's people!

The promises concerning David's seed in verses 12-16 go far beyond Solomon, who though he was a wonderful type of Christ as reigning in peace during the Millennial age to come, yet failed most sadly; their ultimate fulfilment awaits that day of glory.

Messages of God’s Love 12/12/1926

The Rapids

I REMEMBER riding from Buffalo to Niagara Falls, and I said to a gentleman,

"What river is that, sir?" "That," he said, "is Niagara River."

"Well, it is a beautiful stream," said I, "bright, and fair, and glassy. How far off are the Rapids?"

"Only a mile or two," was the reply.

"Is it possible that only a mile or two from us we shall find the water in a turmoil?"

"You will find it so, sir!" So I found it; and that first sight of the Rapids, I shall never forget.

Now launch your bark on Niagara River; it is bright, smooth, beautiful, and glassy. There is a ripple at the bow; the silvery wake you leave behind adds to your enjoyment. Down the stream you glide, oars, sails, and helm in proper trim, and you set out on your pleasure excursion.

Suddenly someone cries out from the bank, "Young men, ahoy!"

"What is it?"

"The Rapids are below you."

"Ha, ha! we have heard of the Rapids, but we are not so foolish as to get there. If we go too fast, then we shall up with the helm and steer to the shore; we will set the mast in the socket, hoist the sail, and speed to land. Haste away!"

"Young men, ahoy there!"

"What is it?"

"The Rapids are below,—the Rapids!"

"Ha, ha! never fear! Time enough to steer out of danger when we are sailing swiftly with the current. On! on!"

"Young men, ahoy!" "What is it?"

"Beware! beware! The Rapids are below you!" Now you see the water foaming all around. See how fast you pass that point! Up with the helm! Now turn! Pull hard!—quick, quick!—pull for your lives!—pull till the blood starts from the nostrils, and the veins stand like whipcord upon the brow! Set the mast in the socket!—hoist the sail! Ah, ah! it is too late! Shrieking hopelessly, over you go.

Thousands go over "Rapids" every year, heedless of the still, small warning voice.

Dear reader, the above brings to mind, the thousands upon thousands that are constantly drifting down the stream of time. "Heedless of their souls immortal, yes, but whither, whither bound!"

Have you ever stopped to think of how your course will end? Are you rushing on headlong to destruction, or are you headed for glory? Don't say as many another has, "time enough!" "Time enough," is Satan's voice; but oh, dear soul, the voice of mercy cries, "Today!" "Bye-and-bye," says this enemy of our souls; but Mercy's voice can be heard again,

"Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation." 2 Cor. 6:2.

Settle the question as to where you will spend eternity, now; do not put it off, the next moment may be too late. "Time and tide, wait for no man."

One winter day a carcass was floating down the Niagara River upon a cake of ice. An eagle soaring above the river spied it and dropped down upon it. He sat there leisurely devouring his easy prey. The swift current began bearing him rapidly downward to the fall. But was he not safe? Could he not leap in a moment into mid-air from his dangerous post? Could he not stretch his great pinions and float off into safety at the very brink of the awful cataract? Had he not done that a thousand times before in his bird experience? So he floated on. But bye-and-bye came the thundering roar of the great cataract. The cloud of white mist that marked the fatal brink of the fall was towering almost above him. It was time to leave. So he stretched out his great wings for flight. But he could not rise. Unnoted by him, his talons, sunken in the ice, and the flesh of his prey, had frozen hard and fast in the bitter winter day, and his fate was sealed. He flapped his great wings. He struggled with all the power of muscle and sinew. But all in vain. In a few moments he was swept over into the abyss to his death. He had delayed too long.

Just so it might be with your immortal soul. You, like the eagle are in instant danger of eternal death; yes, you are drifting swiftly toward that inevitable moment when the curtain of life will drop. Do not, I plead with you, rely on last moments. Why take .a chance with your never dying soul?

God offers His Son, Jesus Christ, as the only way of escape.

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. John 3:16.

"How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation." Heb. 2:3.

Messages of God’s Love 12/12/1926

Inside or Outside

WE were looking in your shop one day, sir," said a little girl, who, with her brother were talking to me, "but we did not see you."

"I wonder," I said, "when I get to heaven, if you will be looking in to see if I'm there?"

"No, no, we shall be inside, then too," said the little girl with a meaning look, which seemed to say she had no doubt about the matter. Why should there be any doubt, even in a little child's heart, when God says in words which a tiny boy or girl can understand:

"He that believeth on the Son (of God) hath everlasting life?"

Soon Jesus is coming to take every one who has been washed in His precious blood, to be forever with Himself. A soul that is washed in the blood of Christ is whiter than snow, and is fit for God's holy presence.

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

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

When the Lord Jesus comes, all who have not believed on Him, will be left outside, and the door will be shut. Only they that were ready went in with Him. (Matt. 25:10). Be wise, dear children, accept the Lord Jesus Christ now while the door is still open. The invitation is still going forth,

"Come unto Me." Matt. 11:28.

Many little ones of my acquaintance do believe God's Word, and are happy in doing so, and they are quite sure when the door is shut that they will be inside, for God says that all who believe in Christ are saved, and shall never perish. If my little readers are not quite sure that they will be inside, let them go to God's Word, and read that beautiful little verse in the Gospel by John, the sixteenth verse of the third chapter,

"For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

Remember! "Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God." Romans 10:17.

Messages of God’s Love 12/12/1926

Fido and Tabby

FIDO is a beautiful, large dog, with a shaggy coat and a bright looking face. No doubt, he can do many clever tricks. Tabby is a black cat with a very glossy fur. Behind little Gretchen is Tabby's cunning little kitten.

As we look at these two little animals, we cannot help noticing that they are very well trained. Gretchen's mama has given her a bowl of nice, warm soup. Gretchen has a spoon in her hand and the two little pets understand that she is going to eat the soup for her dinner. A great many animals would jump upon the stool and try to help themselves, but this cat and dog stay quietly by, and do not even make a noise to show their mistress how much they wish to have a taste. We cannot see the cat's face, but from the way she is standing we know that she is very hungry. Fido's tongue hangs out as if he already had his share of the soup.

Fido and Tabby would put many little children to shame. It is very common to find little ones and even brothers and sisters, who are very selfish. Each wishes to have the best and largest share, and makes a great noise in trying to get it. Other children do not wait to have older people help them at the table, but instead, reach for anything they wish to have. A great many of these little folks have often been told the right way, but do not give heed to mother's words. For such little ones, God has said:

"CHILDREN OBEY YOUR PARENTS IN ALL THINGS: FOR THIS IS WELL PLEASING UNTO THE LORD." Col. 3:20

Messages of God’s Love 12/19/1926

Bible Lessons

2 Samuel 8

The word in Psalm 18, verse 43, written for the day of the Lord when He shall set up, His kingdom at the beginning of the Millennium, had its first fulfilment in David, as the chapter reveals. The Philistines who lived within the borders of Israel, and had long been merciless enemies, were smitten and subdued, and some of their towns were taken from them. Their final destruction did not occur during Old Testament history, though it is promised in the writings of the prophets Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Amos and Zephaniah.

Moab, ancient enemy, was humbled, yet grace was shown them, for "with two lines" measurement was made to put to death, and with "one full line" to keep alive. Moab is used more than once in Scripture as a representation of the world, away from God, and its ways hated by Him. Yet grace, unmerited favor, is shown, as at this day, while free salvation, abundant pardon, is proclaimed to undeserving sinners, if they will but accept it on God's terms.

Far east to the Euphrates, and northward to the city of Damascus went the conquering hosts of Israel under their great leader, and the nations so visited became servants and brought gifts to David. Other kings owned 'David, and sent him vessels of silver, of gold and of brass, which he dedicated to God. Garrison's were placed in Syria and in Edom, and David executed judgment and justice to all his people, preserved and blessed by God where ever he went. David pictures still the Man of power of the coming day when He shall put down all rule and all authority and power, putting all enemies under His feet (1 Corinthians 15:24,25).

To present David in this typical view, as foreshadowing Christ as the warrior-king when He shall return to this earth in judgment, is the great aim of the Holy Spirit in this book. The same history is told in 1 Chronicles with quite a different object,—that of showing the grace of God exemplified in David's life.

Messages of God’s Love 12/19/1926

The Greenlander

GREENLAND is a very cold country. For three months the sun is never seen; and for nearly nine months the ground is covered with snow.

We have plenty of nice fruit in summer, and many good things all the year round but the poor Greenlanders live mostly on seal's flesh, blubber and oil, and what is much worse, many of them know nothing whatever of Jesus and His love! But God loves them: for He "so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life," so that if a Greenlander hears of Jesus, and believes in Him, he will be saved.

Some missionaries went there to tell them of Jesus, and labored there eight years without any apparent success, and thought about returning home. They had suffered a great deal from cold and hunger, and the people only laughed at them, and mocked them. But these dear missionaries had made a great mistake. They thought to begin with proving that God lives, and that He made all things, instead of telling them about Jesus and His love. Sinners need to know that "God is love," and that Jesus died to save them.

One day a party of heathen Greenlanders led by a cruel and wicked native, named Kajarnak, came to the missionary's hut where he was writing. He was finishing his final correction of the four Gospels, and was just then at that part of John's Gospel relating to the sufferings and death of Christ. Kajarnak was surprised at seeing the missionary writing, and at once asked him what He was doing?

"Writing."

"Writing!" said Kajarnak, "what is writing?" The missionary tried to explain it to him and then said,

"I will read you what I have been writing."

He read the account of Christ's agony in the garden, and then upon the cross with the story of His being crowned, scourged and spit upon. As he read on, Kajarnak became deeply interested.

"And why," he asked, "did they treat the man so? What had He done?"

"O!" said the missionary, "this Man did nothing amiss, but Kajarnak did. Kajarnak filled the land with wickedness, and Kajarnak deserved to go to hell for it. But this Han suffered all this to bear Kajarnak's punishment, that Kajarnak might not go to hell." And then the missionary went on to tell about God's love to man, man's sin, and Christ's work on the cross for sinners, till the big

tears were seen to roll down the poor heathen's cheeks, and unable any longer to restrain his feelings, he rose from his seat and cried,

"O! tell it all over again, for I too, would like to be saved."

He was told it all over again—it was such a precious story, and Kajarnak believed the good news. His heart was drawn to Christ. He believed in Him. Kajarnak was saved. Are you saved, dear reader? you have often heard and often read of Jesus and of His sufferings.

The blood of Jesus Christ alone cleanses from sin. Poor Kajarnak, from "Greenland's icy Mountains," with a heart colder than ice, and darker than the darkest night in his country, came to Jesus, believed in God's love and was saved.

Perishing souls, be wise,

Look to the blood stained cross,

Dare you that cross despise—

Dare you at last be lost?

Jesus the Just has died—

Died for the sinner's sin;

Justice is satisfied,

Hasten and enter in!

Hasten ere mercy's door

Close on your sinful view,

Ere the last chance is o'er,—

Sinner, there's room for you!

Messages of God’s Love 12/19/1926

The Ladder on the Cliff

ONE dark and stormy night a vessel was wrecked on a rocky island. The crew had been watching with terror the white waves as they dashed on the lofty cliffs, and thought that to be driven on the rocks was to be their doom.

The cabin was filled with water. The sailors climbed into the rigging, and prayed as they never prayed before, that God would have compassion upon them. That He would save them from temporal death seemed almost incredible.

But the waves drove the vessel on and on. O, if they could reach the top of the cliff, there would be safety and no doubt friendly hands to help them.

Just as they struck the rock, they espied a ladder on the face of the cliff, then was their despair changed to joy. They sprang from the rigging and climbed the ropes as rapidly as their benumbed fingers would permit. They were all rescued, and in a few minutes more, the vessel went to pieces.

That ladder seemed to them a miracle, yet its presence there was easily explained: It was used by the quarry-men as they climbed up and down to their work every day. Though usually drawn up when they left, the suddenness of the storm that night had caused the workmen to hurry to the shelter of their homes without taking time to remove the ladder. It was God who ordered this seemingly trifling matter for the preservation of all their lives.

God has provided a way of escape from the storm of judgment that is coming upon this world. Have you taken shelter under the precious blood of Christ?

"How shall we escape if we neglect so great salvation." Heb. 2:3.

Messages of God’s Love 12/19/1926

Are You Saved?

LARRY was a bright little fellow eight years of age, to whom I often spoke about the Lord Jesus. One day Harry said to a little girl,

"Are you saved, Alice? I am."

She asked him how he knew he was saved.

The answer Harry gave her was,

"Jesus died to put my sins away, and He says, 'Whosoever believeth on Him should not perish, but have eternal life,' and I do believe Him, for He cannot lie, and I must be saved."

Are your sins put away, dear little reader? If you, believing on Him, have been made clean by the precious blood of Christ, you ought indeed to be happy, for the Lord Jesus, who died for you is alive again, and ever watches over you. He loves you. No one can measure His love; it is like an ocean without a shore. May you enter more into "the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge."

Messages of God’s Love 12/19/1926

Feed My Lambs

"Go feed My lambs," the Saviour said,

"With patient, watchful care,

And those who love God's holy name

Shall soon My glory share."

"Go feed My lambs," the Saviour said,

"Tell forth My dying love;

It was for them My blood I shed,

For them I live above."

"Go feed My lambs," the Saviour said,

"And in My likeness grow,

That words of love and gentleness

Unceasingly may flow."

"Go feed My lambs," the Saviour said,

"For yet a little while,

And hearts shall be for Jesus won,

To cheer you in your toil."

"Go feed My lambs," the Saviour said,

"The time will soon be o'er,

All sorrow past, all labor done,

And you on yonder shore."

"Go feed My lambs," the Saviour said,

"My face you soon shall see,

And those dear lambs who hear My voice,

Your crown of joy shall be."

Messages of God’s Love 12/19/1926

Whither Bound?

Where will you spend eternity—

In heaven or in hell?

Will you among the blest be found,

Or with the lost ones dwell?

Choose now, at once; make up your mind,

The Saviour says, Today.

He loves you well; He pleads with you,

And will you tell Him nay?

O, look at Him on Calvary—

Behold His bleeding side!

It was for you, in deepest love,

For you that Jesus died.

His love so great, so boundless, free,

Himself He would not spare;

And now His loving heart is pained,

To see you do not care.

O, scorn Him not, — turn not away,

Reject not love so great;

Nor listen to the tempter's voice,

Which often bids you wait.

Reject Him not, the one true Friend,

Untiring in His love;

O! taste its value here on earth,

Then deeper drink above.

"HE THAT BELIEVETH ON THE SON HATH EVERLASTING LIFE: AND HE THAT BELIEVETH NOT THE SON SHALL SEE LIFE: BUT THE WRATH OF GOD ABIDETH ON HIM." John 3:36

Messages of God’s Love 12/26/1926

Bible Lessons

2 Samuel 9

The ninth chapter gives us David's kindness, or as he himself called it, the kindness of God, to a poor friendless one, the grandson of an enemy. It is moreover, a lovely picture of the kindness and love of God our Saviour toward man (Titus 3:4). 'David, once rejected, his life sought so determinedly by the then king of Israel, that he was made a homeless wanderer and an exile, was now on the throne. God had seen to it that he should be exalted, no matter what the will of man might have been.

Could there be mercy, pardon, for any of the family of the would be murderer? Yes, it is God's delight to have mercy (Romans 3:24; 5:6-9; 11:30-36), when we should look for judgment unsparing from Him. Have we not, unitedly,—Gentile with Jew,—put Christ out of the world? Did not the Roman governor Pilate agree that He should be crucified? (See Luke 23: 24, 25). Yes, as the apostle Peter said in his stirring words to the people in Acts 2:23,24, "Him, being delivered by the determinate counsel and foreknowledge of God, ye have taken, and by wicked hands have crucified and slain: Whom God bath raised up, having loosed the pains of death: because it was not possible that He should be holden of it," and further (verse 36): "God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ." And, marvel of marvels, whosoever believeth in Him, bath everlasting life, and shall not come into judgment, but is passed from death unto life ( John 3.:16; 5:24).

David, far from planning to imprison or kill any of the family of Saul, asks who of them might be found in order that he should show him kindness. Ziba, the servant, tells him there is one of Saul's grand-children left, Mephibosheth by name; not alone a child of the enemy, he is lame on both feet, and far away from Jerusalem. But neither of these obstacles change David's purpose; in fact such an one, who could do nothing for himself, dejected, hopeless, was just the one upon whom he could bestow a rich gift of love; The first step taken is to bring the poor creature into his presence: he must be "fetched",—all the way, not part way after the young man has done his best. So the fifth verse tells us that Mephibosheth was picked up just where he was; it was equally true that he could do nothing to get to David, and that there was nothing for him to do but to receive what was offered in love. And this he did.

Have you, my reader, you who are reading this paper, have you received Christ as your Saviour? The way of salvation, God's salvation is very simple; there is nothing to do but to receive it, but it must be received, or you are eternally lost. God offers it to you. He says in His Word (Acts 13:39) that through this Man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins. An enemy of God by nature and practice, He loves you, seeks you. Will you not open your stony heart to receive that love, the kindness of God?

Messages of God’s Love 12/26/1926

Poor Willie

LITTLE Willie was very poor indeed. His feet and legs were red with cold, and he had no money to buy shoes or stockings, and the little fellow knew too well what it was to be hungry. Often he ran about the cold streets in winter, and slept in summer under the arches by the river.

After a time. Willie tried to earn a little money for himself by chopping wood, and got on fairly well. One day a lady met him in the street.

"My boy," said she, "would you like to come to Sunday-school? It is a nice warm place, with a large bright fire, and many children are taught to read there, and they learn of God who loves poor children."

In the Sunday-school Willie heard about the Lord Jesus and His love, and about boys and girls who love Him. He felt lie did not love Jesus, and the little boy began to cry with sorrow.

If you have been naughty, you are sorry, because you feel that you have not been kind to your father and mother. So it was with Willie. He felt that he had been a naughty boy, and had not been good towards God, and the thought of his sinful heart made him weep.

"Willie," said the lady who was teaching him, "would you like to be a Christian boy?"

He sobbed, "I am too poor to be a Christian, I am such a very poor little boy."

"But, Willie," said the lady, "Jesus welcomes the poor. He loves poor boys, and no one can be too poor to be a Christian. The Bible says, 'Blessed are the poor;' and, 'the poor have the gospel preached to them',—the glad news about salvation."

"Teacher," said Willie again, hanging his head. "I am too poor to be a Christian."

The lady tried to find out what it really was that Willie meant, and after a little persuasion, he said,

"You see, teacher, I can earn only fifty cents a week at chopping wood, and fifty cents a week won't pay for my bed and clothes and food; so sometimes, when no one is looking, I hide a piece of wood under my jacket, and sell it."

"Poor Willie," said the lady, "you must pray to God to take care of you, and to give you His grace. Ask Him to keep you from stealing, and to supply your need."

After trying to lead the little boy to the Lord Jesus Christ and His love, and to see the kindness of God to him, and showing him his need of trusting in God and confiding in Him, the lady said,

"If at any time you are very much in want, you may come to me, and I will try to do what I can to help you."

Willie went to work the next morning with the wish to keep from stealing. Chop, chop, chop, went his hatchet all day long, and at the end of the week his master gave him fifty cents. But the money did not buy all he wanted. Still he felt happier because he had not done that which he knew to be wrong.

The next week, Willie went on with his chopping wood. One evening the temptation came. It was getting dusk; he looked around on this side and on that side; no one was watching, and there was a nice piece of wood at his feet.

Under his tattered coat his little heart went pat, pat, and he felt very uncomfortable, just as everybody does when he is going to do something wrong. Then he looked at the wood again, and thought,

"O, it is such a pretty piece of wood, such a nice piece! I could just hide it under my coat and nobody would see me. It would sell for enough money to buy me a beautiful loaf of bread and other nice things."

Willie again looked around; still he saw no one watching him. He stretched out his hand to take the wood, when he thought he saw an Eye looking at him. He quickly pulled back his hand.

"No!" said he, "I won't take it; God is looking at me."

The temptation had passed; God gave Willie strength to resist it. Willie was all the happier for keeping from doing wrong, but he was none the less hungry, and was as poor as before. Yet the poor boy thought it was better to have a heart at ease, than to have enough to eat, and yet all the while to feel a weight of sorrow.

At the end of the week his master called Willie to him. I wonder if he feared lest he had been seen stretching out his hand towards the wood? But a kind voice gave him confidence.

"My boy," said his master, "I have watched you this week, and have noticed how much better you have behaved, and how much better you have attended to your work. I will give you a dollar instead of fifty cents, and may you always be a good boy."

Willie's heart went pit-pat, pit-pat again very fast, but not in the same way as when he was looking at the piece of wood. This time it was with joy and pleasure. He thanked his master very much, and ran off to the lady's house to tell her the good news.

God is the same to you, dear children, as He was to Willie; if we look to Him when we are tempted, He will give us strength to resist. We must ever remember that God's eye is upon us, and He watches what we do, and it grieves Him so much when we do wrong. Let us not forget,

"Thou God seest me." Gen. 16:13.

"The eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward Him." 2 Chron. 16:9.

Messages of God’s Love 12/26/1926

What God Says

IT IS not only the grown up people who are proud and self-righteous, but sometimes little children are so foolish as to think they are so very good that even God must be pleased with them.

I once knew a very self-righteous little boy; when he prayed at night he used to tell God about other people's sins, but would never say a word about his own.

One day when he was about three years old, he was playing in the room near his aunt, when he accidently threw down her Bible. She said to him,

"Pick it up."

"Why, what is it?" he said.

"It is God's Holy Book." Taking the Bible up again, and pretending to read it, he said,

"God says I am a very good little boy."

You see what he thought God would say of him, and perhaps you may think He would say the same to you, but I want to tell you what God really says in His Word to us—to you and to me,

"There is none good, no not one," and these words take us all in, whether we are old or young.

"There is no difference: for all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God." Rom. 3:23, and as God has told us that we are all sinners in His sight, we surely need a Saviour. The Lord Jesus Christ has so loved us poor sinners that He died for us in order that we might be saved. God looks down upon us, and if we say,

"I have sinned, and perverted that which was right, and it profited me not; He will deliver his soul from going into the pit, and his life shall see the light." Job 33:27,28.

"Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners." 1 Tim. 1:15.

Messages of God’s Love 12/26/1926

Messages of God's Love: 1926

Table of Contents

Bible Questions for January

My Pussy!

Give Thanks

Bible Lessons

Help in Time of Need

Do You Love Jesus?

A Child's Hymn

Jonah and the Whale

Bible Lessons

Come

Why Little Daisy Loved Jesus

Let The Little Children Come

The Visit to Grandfather

Bible Lessons

His Right Name

Jesus Alone Can Save

He Knows and Loves Us Still

The Two Masters

The Grey Wolf

Bible Lessons

Katie

The Love of Jesus

Come Now, Dear Children, to the Cross

Thinking

Bible Lessons

Adventures in the Woods

God Knows Best

God Is Good

Bible Questions for February

Bible Lessons

A Contrite Heart

A Squirrel's Sermon

A Little Child

The Light Within

Bible Lessons

He'd See Me Too Much

Wanted, A Christian

Snowballing

Bible Lessons

Ready To Go

Why a Hindu Boy Wanted a Vacation

Dear Bertie

The Captive Maid

A Windy Day

Bible Lessons

Teddy's Conversion

Brave Oscar

Unchanging Love

Bible Questions for March

Bible Lessons

There Is No Saviour For Me

Dear Ada

The Young Cobbler

Resting

Sparrows

Bible Lessons

The Little Boy's Faith

Contented, But All Wrong

There Shall Come a Night of Such Wild Affright

The Lamb of God

Bible Lessons

The Postman and His Message

Jim's Last Opportunity

Only Trust

Come, Thou Weary, Jesus Calls Thee

Nature

Bible Lessons

Last Request of a Chinese Girl

I Can't Understand It!

The Toy Soldier

Earth Was a Lovely Garden Once

Bible Questions for April

Bible Lessons

What Would You Do?

Boy Wanted

The Redeemed Rabbit

The Down Hill Race

Playing-School