Messages of God's Love: 1948

Some years ago, a gospel service was being held in a school house in Canada. Henry planned to go, and started out with his Bible. Along the way he met some companions who coaxed him to go to the hills and slide with them. At first Henry refused to, go, but finally gave in. He soon forgot the time in the pleasure and excitement of the sport, and was having his last slide when suddenly he fell off, and falling upon his head was picked up unconscious. They carried him home where he soon regained consciousness, but they found that he had broken his arm. For many days Henry suffered. and how often he wished he had obeyed his mother by going to the Gospel service.

One day a friend came to visit him and said, “Henry if you can hardly bear the pain of a broken arm for a few days, how will you bear the suffering that you will have for ever and ever if you die without Christ as your own Saviour?” God used that remark to awaken Henry and he felt how awful it would be to die in his sins. He then saw that the Lord Jesus had shed His precious blood to wash away those sins and he opened his heart to Him and was saved. The heavy load of sin was then gone and he loved the Name of Jesus, He wanted to be obedient to his parents now, and to live to please the Lord day by day.

Perhaps you have had a broken arm, or leg, or some serious illness. The Lord often allows these things to make us think about our soul’s salvation. Henry was brought to know the Lord as his Saviour through his broken arm, and now he can thank the Lord for the accident. If God is speaking to you, remember it is because He loves you and wants you to be saved.

“GOD SPEAKETH ONCE, YEA, TWICE, YET MAN PERCEIVETH NOT.” JOB 33:14.

Messages of the Love of God 1/4/1948

Early Training

IN the early years when settlers were opening up the western part of America there were many dangers. Often bands of Indians which roamed the country, would raid their settlements at times when they least expected them. They would sometimes carry off groups of little children who were playing together. Often the dear little ones would never be seen again, and we can well imagine what a deep sorrow this would be to the parents’ hearts.

One time a company of these Indians were captured, and among them were a number of the stolen children. They had been with the savages for many years and it seemed as if it would be impossible to identify them. A message was sent all through the region telling anyone who had lost their children to come and see if they could recognize their own among the group. There was a woman who lived a considerable distance away who had lost a little boy and girl some years previously. With mingled feelings of hope and fear she came to see if her dear ones were among them. With a throbbing heart she approached the children. They were strange to her. With a dull feeling of despair at her heart she was turning away, when she paused, choked back her tears, and in soft clear notes began a simple song she used to sing to her little ones of JESUS and heaven. Not a line had been sung before a boy and a girl sprang from the group, exclaiming, “Mamma! Mamma!” They had forgotten their dear mother’s face, and they had changed so much she did not recognize them, but that little song had never been forgotten.

May the Lord encourage the parents who read this little paper to sow the good seed of God’s Word in the hearts of their dear children. It may not take root for years, but God can cause it to spring up in His appointed time and way. Let us tell them the “Old, old story” over and over again, teaching them also to memorize verses from the Bible, as well as Gospel hymns and choruses that speak of God’s great love in sending His Son to die for sinners.

“In the morning sow thy seed, and in the evening withhold not thy hand: for thou knowest not whether shall prosper, either this or that, or whether they both shall be alike good.” Eccl. 11:6.

Messages of the Love of God 1/4/1948

Trusting

NO doubt you know that over in England, they use money that is not quite the same as ours. They have what they call a “pound” which is a piece of paper money, about the same as our five-dollar bill. They would tell us it was worth twenty shillings.

Many years ago a man wrote the following little rhyme on the back of a “pound note”.

This piece of paper in your hand,

Declares to you that on demand,

You twenty shillings shall receive.

This simple promise you believe.

So Christ who died, and now loth live,

Doth unto you this promise give;

That if you on His name believe,

You shall eternal life receive.

Upon the first you calmly rest.

Which is the surest and the best?

The bank may break, heaven never can;

‘Tis safer trusting God than man.

“It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man.” Psalm 118:8.

Messages of the Love of God 1/4/1948

Bible Talks

Genesis 22:7-24

WHILE Abraham and Isaac were travelling on together, Isaac asked a question. He saw that his father had the fire and the knife, and he himself was carrying the wood, but he asked, “Where is the Lamb for a burnt offering?” How this question must have touched Abraham’s heart, but his faith was unshaken as his beautiful reply shows us. He said, “My son, God will provide himself a lamb for a burnt offering.” Isaac accepted the answer in perfect confidence, and they both went on quietly together. Surely this would remind us of the garden of Gethsemane. There we hear God’s Son saying, “O My Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from Me nevertheless not as I will, but as Thou wilt?” Matt. 26:39. If that cup of judgment had passed front Him, we would have all been lost eternally. He only could hear it for us, and so in obedience to His Father’s will He took that cup which we had filled with our sins, and drank it to the last dark drop. He bore all the judgment for those who believe, and there is none left for us because He said, “It is FINISHED.” If the reader of these lines is unsaved, why not bow before Him now, and thank Him for the work of redemption He has finished for you?

At lost Abraham and Isaac came to the place of which God had told them. Abraham built the altar, set the wood in order, and bound Isaac his son upon it. Then with unfaltering faith he took the knife to slay his son, but just at that moment God called to him from heaven saying, “Abraham, Abraham, ... .Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou anything unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from Me.” God was faithful and made a Way of escape for Abraham in the temptation. (see 1 Cor. 10:13.)

The knife did. not fall on Isaac, for a substitute was provided. Yes, there was a rain near which Abraham took and offered up in the stead of his son. Every type falls short of the perfection of the work of Christ, for there was no substitute to take His place. He was the Substitute Himself, and the sword did fall upon Him, He was the Lamb of God’s own providing, and He could not escape as Isaac did, or we would be lost eternally, No one else could be a sacrifice for sin but He, and so He died that we might live.

Abraham then called the place “Jehovah-Jireh”, which means, “The Lord will provide.” It was in this very place (Mount Moriah) that Solomon’s temple was built. This shows us that the ground of all worship is always and only founded upon the finished work of Christ, which Abraham’s sacrifice typified. The only right way of coming into the presence of God is given us. in Hebrews 10:19, “Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus.”

God appeared to Abraham the second time making the promise that, “In thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed.” This word, “thy seed” refers to Christ through whom all nations will receive blessing. In the old testament God dealt particularly with Israel, but since the work of redemption is completed, the gospel can be preached to “Whosoever will.” After this Abraham returned to Beer-sheba (the well of the oath). Now we too can “Draw water out of the wells of salvation.” Isaiah 12:3 for all our blessings come to us through Christ.

Messages of the Love of God 1/4/1948

Ten Thousands Fears

PERHAPS you think that one big fear is bad enough, but I am going to tell you the story of ten thousand fears and how they were all settled by one little lamb.

Many years ago, a very cruel man fought against the city of Amsterdam with an army of fierce soldiers. When at last they broke through the gates of the city, the soldiers rushed through the streets, entering every house and killing everyone they could find.

Some of the frightened people ran to hide in a great stone house, hoping that its closed doors would keep away the angry men, but they were really not safe and they knew it. No wonder that their hearts beat hard with ten thousand fears.

Your heart would be filled with fears too, if you knew the judgment of God that must fall upon sinners who have no place to hide. God’s judgment will last forever and ever, and there is not a big stone building in all the world that will hide you from Him.

But the best part of the story is yet to come. One wise man in the big house hurried to the garden and found there a little lamb, which he killed. In less than a minute, a big splash of the little lamb’s blood was marked on the outside of the closed door, and then along came the soldiers. But not one of them touched the blood-marked door! Death had been there already, and they thought that everyone in the house had been killed. Now the poor people’s fears were ended. Death was past, and their lives were all saved through the blood of one little lamb. That is why they carved a picture of the lamb over the door of the house, and wrote tinder it, “Ten thousand fears”.

Do you know, children, where you can hide from the judgment of God? Our sins deserve eternal death, but God Himself has provided a Lamb to die in our stead. That Lamb is His own Son, the Lord Jesus, whose blood was shed on Calvary’s cross that we might live. God is not eager to punish you, as those soldiers were. No, He is satisfied with the death of His only Son for our sins, and He is just waiting to forgive you. Will you not trust in the precious blood of Jesus Christ and know that you are saved forever and ever?

“BEHOLD THE LAMB OF GOD, WHICH TAKETH AWAY THE SIN OF THE WORLD!” JOHN 1:29.

Messages of the Love of God 1/11/1948

None in Hell

“TRACTS everywhere!” said a young man, with a sneer, as a young boy handed him a gospel tract.

“No,” said the boy quietly, “there will be none in hell.” God fastened that single sentence in his mind and he could not get rid of it.

“None in hell!” seemed to echo in his ears every time he saw a tract, and soon after he accepted Christ as his Saviour.

Yes, dear reader, there will be no tracts in hell! Nobody will speak to you there about your soul. You will never see a Sunday School paper any more.

How very eagerly the lost multitudes in that awful place would welcome a gospel tract, but their time of grace is over.

This, my friend, may be your last Sunday School paper, your last offer of mercy, your last voice of love from God. “Today if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts.” Hebrews 3:15.

Messages of the Love of God 1/11/1948

The Measure of Love

HOW much do you love Sister?” little Bertie was asked, and he held his chubby arms about a foot apart. “That much,” he said.

When asked, “How much do you love Tom?” his merry little eyes grew dim, and, holding his hands an inch apart said, “That’s all I love him.” Tom liked to tease his little brother and was not always as kind as big brothers ought to be.

“How much do you love mother?” was the next question, and little Bertie responded by stretching his arms as fat-apart as he could. “That’s how much I love her, more than anyone else.”

“How much does Jesus love you?” may be asked, and if we look to the cross we will see His hands nailed to the cursed tree. He suffered there more than we can tell, and it was His great love for you that made Him bear the punishment of God for your sins. Have you ever thanked Him for doing so?

“How much do you love Jesus?” I would ask you, my reader. To love Him who first loved you will bring you everlasting joy.

Can you say, “The Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for ME?” Gal. 2:20.

Messages of the Love of God 1/11/1948

God so Loved

A POOR African family was starving. There were five children and the parents decided to sell one of them as a slave, and use the money to buy food, and so save the rest of the family. The five children were placed in a row, and the father and mother looked at them one by one.

“We can’t sell Sam,” said the father, “he is such a good helper, we couldn’t spare him.”

“Cassy certainly mustn’t go,” said the mother, she minds the children and is my greatest comfort.”

“Well, poor Tom shall not be sold; he is patient and gentle, and could not hear hard treatment,” said the father, “and I’m sure I could never part with Chloe who is the life of us all—she is so merry.”

“And would you give up my baby, then?” cried the mother.

“No, we could not spare any of them, we shall have to starve a little longer.”

These African parents had five dear children, and they could not spare ONE, but God gave His ONLY Son for us. His love was so great that He wished to have us as His children, and so Jesus came to Calvary’s cross and gave His life that we might live. There He took our place, bearing the punishment that we deserved, and now through faith in His precious name, you dear reader, if still unsaved, may have eternal life and be made a child of God.

“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.

“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 the Love of God 1/11/1948

Himself He Could Not Save

ONE day, late in December, when a large store was full of customers, an accident which occurred to one of the lights in the window set the place on fire. The crowd rushed wildly out, and the fire spread to the upper stories in a few moments.

A young man appeared at a top floor window, and the firemen quickly raised a ladder to rescue him. But instead of climbing out himself he immediately disappeared, and a minute later helped a girl on to the ladder and she soon was in safety on the ground. The flames began to leap out around the ladder, scorching the firemen at the bottom, but the young man disappeared again and lifted still another girl to the ladder, from which she fell part way down—but was safe.

Then the man suddenly threw up his arms and fell backwards into the burning building—he gave his own life to save two others.

This is but a faint picture of what the Lord Jesus did when He died on Calvary’s cross for us, His enemies. They said, of Him, when He hung on the cross, “He saved others; Himself He cannot save.” Matt. 27:42. No, He could not, WOULD not, save Himself. He came to DIE that we who believe in Him might live.

“Himself He could not save,

He on the cross must die,

Or mercy cannot come,

To ruined sinners nigh;

Yes, Christ the Son of God, must bleed, That sinners might from sin be freed.”

Messages of the Love of God 1/11/1948

Bible Talks

Genesis 23

AT last Sarah died. She was a hundred and twenty-seven years old, but no matter how long we live, unless the Lord Jesus should come for His own during our lifetime, we must die. Of course, we who belong to Him do not look for death, but we are expecting the Lord to come at any moment and take us to be with Himself. Dear young reader, are you ready if called away suddenly? Do not put off the question of your soul’s salvation one moment longer, for you cannot tell when your turn will come. Death may overtake you unexpectedly, or the Lord might come today, “Prepare to meet thy God.” Amos 4:12.

Abraham was only a stranger and a pilgrim in the land of Canaan, but he had laid hold of God’s promise that the laid, was to be his, and his children’s after him. He knew too that God was the God of resurrection, and so he wanted Sarah buried in the land of promise. Notice the words, “And Abraham stood up from before his dead.” He did not sorrow as those who have no hope. If the reader of these lines has lost a loved one who has died in Christ, do not allow the sorrow to crush you. It is quite right to feel it, for the Lord Jesus wept at the grave of Lazarus; but it is wrong to get under it so than we cannot “stand up” as Abraham did.

However, Abraham was willing to wait God’s time for the possession of the land, and until that time he acknowledges his stranger ship by purchasing a burying place for Sarah. The sons of Heth would have given him one, but he would rather buy it, than take it from their hands without charge. He did not want or need anything from the world in his path of faith. He was beautifully courteous in his refusal, as well as business-like in his dealings with them. It is never right to be ungrateful or discourteous to anyone, either in the world or to Christians. Nor is it pleasing to the Lord to be carless in our ordinary business dealings. We should carry on everything in such a way that if we were taken suddenly in death, or if the Lord should come, all our business affairs would be in order and all our debts paid. Even boys and girls can learn to do things in this way. It will save you many a trouble in life if you do, as well as being honoring to the Lord who has given us instruction as to these things in His Word.

“Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.” 2 Corinthians 8:21.

“Owe no man anything, but to love one another.” Romans 13:8.

Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob were all buried in the field which Abraham purchased at this time; for they were “heirs together of the same promise”, looking “for a city which hath foundations whose Builder and Maker is God.” Hebrews 11:9, 10. We who know the Lord Jesus as our own personal Saviour, can look forward with joyful assurance to our home above. Abraham had living faith in God, but he did not have the wonderful things revealed to him that are now written for our comfort, in God’s blessed Word. Here is an assuring verse for the children of God, “We KNOW that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens.” 2 Cor. 5:1.

Messages of the Love of God 1/11/1948

The Empty Plate

IT is supper time, and no milk for the farmer’s kittens! Where is the little girl who usually comes at milking-time to fill the empty plate? In a minute, she will hear that hungry cry, and come with a pail of foaming milk for her little pets.

Boys and girls need milk too, or they will not grow up with strong healthy bodies; able to run and play, and help, father and mother. Some of our little friends grow so fast that it keeps mother busy letting down dresses, and trying to make last year’s suits fit extra long arms and legs. It’s fun to find yourself a little taller each year than you were the year before, isn’t it? Mother would surely worry if you did not grow at all!

You see, your body cannot grow without food, and neither can your soul. There is a certain kind of milk which will Make your soul grow, and you will find the name of it in 1 Peter 2:2, “As newborn babes, desire the sincere, milk of the Word, that ye may grow thereby.” That milk, then, is the Word of God. If you are one of God’s children, you will surely grow if you desire to o have more and more of His precious Word in your heart and in your memory.

The little grasshopper in our picture does not care for any milk, does he? Of course not, because he is not a kitten, and the milk is no food for him. Now there are many people in the world who do not care for the Word of God at all. They cannot understand it, because they are not children of God, and His precious Word means nothing to them.

Have you trusted in Christ as your Own Saviour? Do you know the Lord Jesus as the One who has died to save you? If you do, then you are one of God’s newborn babes, and you need the sincere milk of the Word, that you may grow in the sight of God. If you can-licit read it very well, and you do not hear it often in your home, ask Him to give you more, and He will surely answer your prayer, for He loves to see His children grow.

“AS NEWBORN BABES, DESIRE THE SINCERE MILK OF THE WORD, THAT YE MAY GROW THEREBY.” 1 Peter 2:2.

Messages of the Love of God 1/18/1948

Desire for the Word of God

DO you love to read the Bible? Let me tell you a story of a young boy who lived in Africa. This boy had heard about the Lord Jesus, and had accepted Him as his own Saviour. But he had no Bible. He knew that there was a missionary twenty-four miles away who had a Bible, and so he often took his canoe and paddled up the river to have the privilege of reading it.

When the boy’s parents found out about this, they took away his canoe, so that he couldn’t go any more. What did the boy do? He swam across the river. in spite of the danger of the many, crocodiles, and walked up: the other side to the missionary station.

We asked you, “Do you love to read the Bible?” Probably you have one in your home, but do you love to read it? It tells us such good news. “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 the Love of God 1/18/1948

The Wasp's Nest

ONE afternoon a group of people had an outing in the woods, and as the time drew near to make a fire, all began searching for twigs.

One little girl found a neat pile of branches and she thought a few of them would be ideal to use for the fire. As she pulled up a few of them, a swarm of wasps flew up and stung her on her arms and legs. The poor child ran to her older sister to be comforted.

The pile of twigs looked perfectly alright, but underneath it was all wrong, as the child found. Now this is like “the wiles of the devil.” A wile is something that appears harmless, but is found to be deceiving. We read in Ephesians 6:11, “Put on the whole armor of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.”

Satan, our enemy, has set many snares, or wiles, for the young believer, and he would like to have us fall into them and spoil our testimony for Christ. Perhaps some of these wiles may be reading bad books, or keeping company with boys or girls who do not love the Lord Jesus even though they appear to be nice.

Let us seek help from the Lord, and He will show us the way. In Matthew 26:41 The Lord Jesus told Peter, “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation.” This means that we have a resource in prayer, and the reading of the Word of God.

“Pray without ceasing.” 1 Thess. 5:17.

“Thy Word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against Thee.” Psalms 119:11.

Messages of the Love of God 1/18/1948

Left Behind

OUR train stopped at the station of Eldon, where, as usual all was bustle and noise. We heard some loud shootings, but took no notice of them as we were busy talking. At last one of us said, “Why are we stopping here so long? The train should have left long ago.” Another opened the window and looked out. The next moment he turned around to us with the words, “The train is gone! The last two coaches have been left behind.”

We all jumped up, called a railroad official who was near, and asked him what it meant. “You have been left behind.” he answered.

“But why didn’t somebody come and tell us to change coaches?”

“I passed both coaches and called out as loudly as I could several times. It is your own fault if you paid no attention.”

What could we say? We had heard him calling but had not heeded.

How many will be left behind when the Lord comes and gives that shout which calls His own home to glory. How many there are, and perhaps the reader is among the number, who have heard the warning call, but have paid no attention.

For us, there was a later train, but for you, reader, there will be no more chance. “How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation.” Hebrews 2:3.

Messages of the Love of God 1/18/1948

The Morning Star

I WONDER how many boys and girls have seen the lovely morning Star? This star appears in the eastern sky just before dawn when all around is darkest.

Not long ago we looked out to see the Morning Star and we beheld a beautiful sight. The sky was unusually clear and every star seemed to be in view. There-in the center in all its beauty was the-Morning Star. All the other stars were brilliant, but the Morning Star was more radiant, and lovelier than the rest.

This sight made us think of the time when the Lord Jesus will have all His redeemed ones with Him in glory. In that day, His own will not only be with Him, but will also be like Him,

“Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be but we know that, when He shall appear, we shall be like Him; for we shall see Him as He is.” 1 John 3:2.

In Revelation 22:16 the Lord Jesus says,

“I am the Root and the Offspring of David, and the bright and Morning Star.”

Those of us who are Christians should be looking for the Lord Jesus to come as the Morning Star. All around in this world is sin and spiritual darkness on every hand, but we can “look up” for the blessed Lord to come soon. Then when the whole blood-bought throng is with the Lord Jesus, He will be the center and theme of worship through the endless ages of eternity, as the little hymn says,

“There Christ the center of the throng, Shall in His glory shine.”

Oh, dear boys and girls, we hope you will not fail to take the Lord Jesus NOW if you have not yet accepted Him as your Saviour! Then you will be among the happy company who will praise the Lord Jesus forever in glory. The poor pleasures of this world are not to be compared with the blessings found in Christ.

“Come then and join this holy hand,

And on to Glory go,

To dwell in that celestial land,

Where joys immortal flow.”

Messages of the Love of God 1/18/1948

Bible Talks

Genesis 24:1-11

IN figure Isaac had passed through death on the altar on Mount Moriah, and had come forth again in resurrection. (see Hebrews 11:19.) Then his father Abraham sent Eliezer his servant into a far country to get a bride for him. Eliezer speaks to us of the Holy Spirit of God, who has come down since Christ has gone back as the One who has died and risen again. The Holy Spirit is now gathering out of the world a bride for Christ, bringing them from a “far country” to the Father’s house above.

Perhaps some of our young readers wonder what we mean by the “bride of Christ”, and we want everyone to understand our “Bible talks.” It is just this way! When anyone takes the Lord testes Christ as their Saviour, the Holy Spirit of God, the third person of the Trinity, comes to indwell them. (see Ephes. 1:13, 1 Cor. 6:19.) They then become part of the true church of God, the body of Christ, and when the Lord Jesus comes for His own as the Bridegroom (Matt. 25:6), they will be caught up to meet Him. The marriage will then take place in Heaven (Revelation 19:7), just as Isaac’s marriage took place when Rebekah reached Canaan.

Now to go on with this very interesting story. Abraham made his servant promise to go all the way to Mesopotamia where he was to choose the bride and bring her back. Eliezer started out on his long journey, taking everything that was necessary to persuade the bride-to-be of the wealth and glory of Isaac, so that she would be willing to come. Thus when the Spirit of God begins to work in a sinner’s heart, He brings before the soul all that Christ has done, and the future glory with Christ for the one who believes. He meets him too at the “well”, using the water of the Word for the sinner’s blessing. This was the way the Lord did with the woman at Sychar’s well in John 4, telling her of the gift of God, and giving her far more than He had asked from her. He had requested a drink of water from Jacob’s well, but. He gave her a drink of the “living water.” Dear young reader, the Spirit of God longs to give you a drink of the “living water” too. When you accept the Lord Jesus as your own Savour, you will find the truth of the words, “The water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” John 4:14.

The Word of God has many interesting lessons for us and just as we learn many things from pictures, so God uses “word pictures” in the Bible to teach us. Let us look at this story before us, in a very practical way. We are writing these “talks” for young people, and we all like to have friends. Our problem is this, who are the right friends to choose, and perhaps harder still, where will we find them? Since Eliezer was trying to find a bride for Isaac (who in our “picture” would speak of Christ), his experiences will surely be helpful to those of us who want to choose a friend or friends to please Him too.

Eliezer knew the right place to find the one for Isaac. It was by the well of water, and in the very place where Abraham had told him to go. Abraham would speak to us of God our Father, whose Word should ever be our guide. We can never expect to find the right one in the path of disobedience, nor by the “broken cisterns” of this poor world.

Messages of the Love of God 1/18/1948

The Trap

HERE is a pretty rabbit, soft and furry. He has long ears so that he can hear the faintest sound. He has bright little beady eyes so that he can see in front at him and behind him at the same time, and his strong hind legs can take a long jump out of danger at a moment’s notice. God has fitted the rabbit very wonderfully to escape from its enemies, so surely our little furry friend will never be caught!

And yet, I am afraid our little rabbit will be caught in a minute! Someone wiser than he has laid a trap for him. It smells very good no doubt, and if he should try a bite, it would taste very good too. But another bite and another would loosen the little spring and let down the trap door as soon as the poor little fellow is safely inside. He can escape many a time from a fox or a dog, but the man who made this trap is too clever for him. Perhaps tomorrow he will be just a piece of fur for the collar of somebody’s coat.

No doubt you can run fast, little boys and girls, and I hope you are careful to watch for danger when you cross the street. But there is someone wiser than you who has laid many a trap in this world for you. You may be clever, but Satan, who is not a man, is more clever than you are. You cannot understand his traps but you can be caught by them, and be very miserable.

When the poor little rabbit is caught, oil his little long-eared friends cannot save him, but perhaps someone will be willing to set him free. That is what the Lord Jesus is willing to do for you— set you free from the power of Satan. He will not stop there, however, and leave you to go back to the dangers and fears of life. He is willing to save you and keep you all through this world and far more than that. He will take you to Himself in Heaven, where you will enjoy His love for ever and ever.

It would be quite easy for you or me to open the wooden trap and set the little rabbit free. But it was not easy for the Lord Jesus to set us free from Satan’s power. He had to take our place, and to suffer and die on Calvary’s cross in order that He might set us free. How we should thank Him as long as we live!

Do you know that you cannot save yourself? Do you know that you are helplessly caught unless the Lord Jesus comes to save you? Then ask Him today, for He is ready and willing to save you now.

‘THE LORD ... IS LONG-SUFFERING TO US-WARD, NOT WILLYNG THAT ANY SHOULD PERISH, BUT THAT ALL SHOULD COME TO REPENTANCE.” 2 Peter 3:8.

Messages of the Love of God 1/25/1948

In a Ring of Fire

AN ungodly man was one day trying to argue with a converted Hindoo. “What, after all,” said the scoffer, “has your Jesus done for you?”

“He has saved me!” said the native. “And what is that?”

“Step with me to the door, and I will show you.”

They both stepped outside the house, and the native picked up an armful of dry leaves and straw. With these he made a large circle on the ground. Then he found a worm near at hand, and placed it in the center of the ring. Next, he struck a match, and lighted the straw and leaves. The scoffer looked on greatly puzzled. What did it all mean? Soon the poor worm began to feel the heat and began to squirm and wiggle, but couldn’t get out of the ring of fire. The native then quickly reached down, picked up the worm, and set him safely on the cool green grass.

“That,” said he, “is what the Lord Jesus has done for me. I was exposed to the flames of hell, and there was no way of escape. I felt my need and didn’t know which way to turn and was ready to perish. Jesus Christ died on the cross to save me from hell and has given me a place near His heart.”

Has He saved you, dear reader? “When we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.” Romans 5:6.

Messages of the Love of God 1/25/1948

The Word of God

LAST month we digressed from our talks about Josiah, to have a little chat about the New Year. Let us now turn to 2 Kings 22 again, and notice a few more things in the life of this interesting man.

While Josiah’s men were repairing the house of the Lord, Hilkiah the high priest found something very wonderful amid the ruins. It was the book of the law of the Lord—the Bible. Of course only a part of it had been written at that time, and it was kept on a large scroll. Just think of what a sad condition the people of God were in, that they had gone on for years and years without caring about His Word. The house of God was in ruins and the Bible lost and forgotten! Surely God was gracious to allow them to find it again. Does not this remind us of the Christian world today? Is your home, or let us come a little closer, is your room, a place where the Word of God is “buried” under a pile of other books, and almost forgotten? Do not neglect it any longer, but do as Josiah did and “dig it out” today. Put it on top of the other books and read it. It will bring a blessing to you as it did to him.

In those days there were very few who could read, but they found a man named Shaphan who could, and brought him to the king. When Josiah heard the words of the book he rent his clothes, showing in this way how badly he felt that he had neglected it for so many years. He was one of those of whom we read in Isaiah 66:2, who tremble at God’s Word and he immediately sent to inquire of the Lord about what he had heard. He was not a forgetful hearer.

What a wonderful privilege is ours today, to have an open Bible, and no doubt most of our young readers have one of their own. Prize it much, dear young people, and let it be your guide at all times, for although there are many things you cannot understand in it, and probably there always will be as long as you are in the world, you can read and believe it. There is no other standard of truth which will withstand all the attacks of unbelieving men and rise triumphantly over them. It is “the Word of God, which liveth and abideth forever.” 1 Peter 1:23, and will remain long after all of men’s empty arguments have ceased eternally.

When the messengers sent by the king went to inquire of the Lord, the only person whom they could find was a woman named Huldah. Things were so weak that there wasn’t even a prophet to be found; only a prophetess. We can never expect to see a great show of strength in days of failure. No doubt Josiah’s day was very similar to the time in which we live when the Word of God has been recovered to us, after having been virtually lost for centuries. God has put His special approval on those who, having a little strength are keeping His Word and not denying His Name. (Revelation 3:8.) Are you among those who are seeking to do this, dear reader?

Josiah was promised that because his heart was tender, and he humbled himself, he would not see the awful judgment that was to fall on the nation. So now, those who humble themselves as sinners, and accept Christ as their Saviour, will be caught up to meet Him before God’s judgment falls on this dark world.

Messages of the Love of God 1/25/1948

Bible Talks

Genesis 24:11-16.

WE have followed the pathway of Abraham’s servant to the side of the well, and as we remarked last week, he was then in the right place to choose a bride for Isaac. Water, in the Scriptures often speaks to us of God’s Word (see Eph. 5:26) and so we can see in this a picture of one who is walking in obedience. While patiently waiting on the Lord, Eliezer prayed and asked His guidance that the decisions which he was about to make might be the right ones. How many serious mistakes would be avoided if we always made our decisions in this way.

The Lord surely guided Eliezer most remarkably, and the story abounds with little details which are full of instruction for us as young people. Rebekah was thoughtful and kind. It could be said of her as of the one described in Proverbs 31, “In her tongue is the law of kindness.” Children of God who want to please the Lord are not thoughtless of the needs of others, nor would they be selfish, and always thinking of themselves first. Nor would they be lazy. Eliezer knew all this, and so he asked the Lord that he would lead him to the one, who when asked for a drink would say, “Drink, and I will give thy counsels drink also.” He knew too that only the Lord could guide him aright, and he was content to wait on Him.

Eliezer wasn’t long in getting an answer to his prayer. But perhaps some of our readers are saying that they do not get such a ready answer to their prayers. Let us draw your attention to something very beautiful in Eliezer’s attitude before he ever came to the well at all. He had said to Abraham, “Peradventure the woman will not be willing to follow me unto this land: must I needs bring thy son unto the land from whence thou camest?” and Abraham had replied “Beware thou that thou bring not my son thither again.” If he could not get a bride for Isaac in the path of obedience, he was to come back through the wilderness alone, and this he was content to do. What lovely faith! and God has been pleased to record it for our encouragement. He knows the difficulties of the way, and takes notice of all we do for Him even when we suffer rather than disobey. Abraham’s word was definite, “Beware thou that thou bring not my son thither again.” How can a Christian expect the blessing of the Lord, if he or she goes back into the world, out of which God has saved us, to get a life companion. It is a dangerous course to pursue.

Rebekah then came to the well, and she was “very fair to look upon”, but this was not the deciding factor in Eliezer’s choice. There were much deeper considerations than these, and we do well to bear in mind the Scripture which says, “Favor is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised.” Prov. 31:30. Eliezer knew that “the Lord looketh on the heart” 1 Sam. 16:7, and he awaited His guidance.

Before closing our little “talk” we would like to remark that the primary meaning of this story is that the Spirit of God, like Eliezer, has come down into this world to get a bride for Christ.

All who are truly saved form part of that bride, and if the one who reads these lines is unsaved, our desire is that you might listen to the pleadings of the Spirit of God with your soul, and accept Christ as your Saviour NOW.

Messages of the Love of God 1/25/1948

Bible Questions for February

“The Children’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in Proverbs Chapters 8-15.

Write in full the verse in which you find the words:

1. “Grievous words stir up anger.”

2.“A place of refuge.”

3.“Heareth his father’s instruction.”

4.“Abomination to the Lord,”

5. “He addeth no sorrow with it.”

6.“He that seeketh mischief,”

7.“Wrongeth his own soul.”

“The Young People’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in Proverbs Chapters 8-15.

1.What does God say about “lying lips”?

2.What does God call one who mocks at sin?

3.What does God say of those who win souls?

4.What kind of an answer turns away wrath?

5.Does sparing the rod show love to the child?

6.What is the result of withholding more than is meet?

7.When a man sins, whose soul does he wrong?

Messages of the Love of God 2/1/1948

The Path in the Snow

HAVE you ever seen a long stretch of snow without single footprint? That is what Mary saw across the park one winter’s morning as she set out for school. It was so white and clean and spotless that she rather hated to make a mark to spoil it, but it was the shortest way to school and she was not early.

Mary wondered for just a minute, and then she climbed over the bars and jumped lightly into the soft snow (if, the other side. It was fun. She walked along slowly, forgetting the time and enjoying the bright morning sunshine until a train whistle reminded her that it would soon be time for the school bell. She looked back upon such a crooked, lazy sort of path, that she felt a little ashamed of it. So she fixed her eyes steadily upon the gate at the other end, and in a very few minutes she had climbed over it and hurried into the big schoolyard, just in time.

When school was over, Mary came again to the closed gate and looked back across the long stretch of white snow, but what a difference now! Her single footprints had been followed by dozens and hundreds of people who had tramped that path all day! Little overshoes and big ones, ladies and men had made a beaten path through the park and every one of them had followed her trail exactly. They had gone straight where she went straight, and crooked where she went crooked.

Little reader, there are many days ahead of you if you live longer in this world. You have not made one single footprint on tomorrow yet, have you? It is just like a field of unmarked snow. What marks have you left in your life today, and what marks are you going to make tomorrow if you are here? Remember that others, especially your little brothers or sisters will follow you, and if you go crooked they will go crooked too!

How did Mary make a straight path through the snow for the last part of her journey? She kept her eyes fixed upon the gate at the other end. What is the other end of your life’s journey? Is it to be in Heaven with the Lord Jesus? Then keep your eyes upon Him for He surely has His eyes upon you, and if you follow Him, you cannot go astray. If you do not know the Lord Jesus as your Saviour, then you have gone astray already. You cannot make a straight path through this world no matter how hard you try without knowing the blessed Lord Jesus as your Saviour, and following Him.

“He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” John 8:12.

“IF ANY MAN SERVE ME, LET HIM FOLLOW ME, AND WHERE I AM THERE SHALL ALSO MY SERVANT BE.” John 12:26.

Messages of the Love of God 2/1/1948

Names

WE know a little girl who has been attending school for a few months and she has learned to print her name. One sees the child’s name printed in various places, and if she is given a paper and pencil she writes her name R-U-T-H several times.

No doubt most of our readers remember when they too, first wrote their names and many children are looking forward to the time when they will attend school and learn to read and write.

We read in John 10:3, “He calleth His own sheep by name and leadeth them out.” Yes, the Lord Jesus who laid down His life for His sheep, knows each one of His own by name and tenderly cares for them. If you have put your trust in the Lord Jesus as your own precious Saviour, you are one of His own redeemed ones and your name is written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.

Oh, if you have not believed that the Lord Jesus bore your sins there at Calvary, you will never enter the heavenly city, but will have to bear your own judgment in Hell throughout eternity, for we read in Revelation 21:27.

“And there shall in no wise enter into it anything that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb’s Book of Life.”

Then we think of the Name which is above every name—the Name of Jesus, “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. Have you dear reader, found the Name of Jesus precious to your soul?

“There’s a Name, the Name of Jesus

Far above all other names;

All in Heaven delight to hear it,

All delight to own its claims.

Ruined sinners learn its meaning,

And rejoice with those above;

Find it more than all things precious

Taught of God that Name is Love.”

Messages of the Love of God 2/1/1948

What Winnie Thought

DO you suppose?” said Johnnie, as his little laid cousin away her largest and rosiest apple for a sick git, “that God cares about such little things as we do? He is too busy taking care of the big folks to notice US much.”

Winnie shook her head and pointed to mamma who had just lifted baby from his crib. “Do you think,” said Winnie, “mamma is so busy with the big folk—helping the girls off to school and papa to his office—that she forgets the little ones? No, she thinks of baby FIRST.”

We are told in Psalm 138:6, “Though the Lord be high, yet hath He respect unto the lowly.”

“He telleth the number of the stars,

He guideth the icebergs flow,

He heareth the cry of the little kit fox,

And the lemming of the snow.”

Messages of the Love of God 2/1/1948

Bible Talks

Genesis 24:17-27.

WE can still learn a great deal from this remarkable story. The courteous manner in which Eliezer requested a drink is very instructive,

“Let me, I pray thee, drink a little water of thy pitcher.” He was not bold and demanding, for if we expect to find a friend with real Christian characteristics, we must act in a thoughtful and considerate way ourselves. So here, Eliezer soon found a ready willingness on the part of Rebekah; and he knew that she was the one the Lord had chosen for Isaac. She drew water for all his camels, and this was not a small task, for Eliezer had ten camels!

Well might he wonder, and yet our God is a God of wonders! One “who is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think.” Eph. 3:20. It wasn’t long until Rebekah was rewarded for her kindness, and surely Eliezer was rewarded for waiting on the Lord. His promise is ever the same, “Them that honor Me I will honor” 1 Sam. 2:30, but we cannot expect to be honored, if we do not honor the Lord first. “In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.” Prov. 3:6.

Before Eliezer did one thing more, he asked Rebekah a most important question, he said, “Whose daughter art thou? tell me, I pray thee.” Too many young Christians leave this important question until later on, and sometimes, sad to say, they never ask it. They want “just a little friendship”, and can go on for a long time having a so-called good time, without saying “Whose daughter art thou?” or in other words “Are you a child of God by faith in Christ Jesus?” It was foremost, however in the mind of Eliezer, and Rebekah readily replied that she was the daughter of Bethuel. Yes, she gladly owned that she was one of Eliezer’s master’s brethren. It wasn’t a half-hearted indefinite confession, like so many in our day causing us to wonder if they are really the Lord’s. One who really belongs to the Lord, can confess His Name clearly and definitely, and is glad to do so.

Another lovely thing about Rebekah is the way she speaks of the hospitality of her parent’s home, though not inviting Eliezer herself. She was learning these things in the happy circle of her own family. Yes, there was room for the man and his camels, and soon her brother came out and invited him in. Everything was so beautifully proper in its place, and this was another evidence that it was not just an empty thing with Rebekah. Any boy or girl can be nice when they are out, but it is the home life that tells, and Eliezer was going to see her actions at home, “Let them learn first to show piety (godliness) at home.” 1 Tim. 5:4, is a good word for us all.

Eliezer had learned to take everything from the Lord, and to thank Him for His blessings, and he bowed his head right at the well and worshipped. Then he began to talk about the Lord too. There is not much danger of getting into bad company when we talk about the Lord, and it is a fine thing to make this the subject of our conversation. Eliezer was making decisions in his heart, and Rebekah in. hers, but there was ample evidence on both sides of an ardent desire to do the will of the Lord.

Messages of the Love of God 2/1/1948

Grandpa Can Fix It

THE little girl has broken her doll’s bed but she is not worrying. Of course Grandpa can fix it. She is quite sure that Grandpa is a very clever man, for, with just a hammer and nails, and a saw and a few pieces of wood, he can fix almost anything. Plenty of fixing he has done already, and he always seems glad to stop and help a little girl out of her trouble.

Isn’t it strange that Grandpa cannot fix his own troubles? His hair is quite gone in the front, and around his ears it is almost white, but he cannot make it brown as it used to be. His eyesight is so poor that he has to wear glasses now, because he cannot fix his eyes. He often lays down the heavier work and says, “I’m not so young as I used to be.” Why is it that Grandpa seems to be able to fix everything but himself?

God has the answer to this question in Romans 6:23, “The wages of sin is death,” Grandpa is a sinner and so are you and I, little reader, and so death has passed upon all men for that all have sinned. Even the cat and the hen and the trees must die some day because men have sinned. We do not like to think about it, and so many people try to look young although they are really old, but they hate to think that they must die.

There was one Man who lived in this world who never sinned, and therefore He did not grow old. Death had no power over Him. He gave up His life freely, that sinners might live, and those of us who trust in Him love to tell you His precious name. His name is the Lord Jesus Christ. Death could not hold Him because He is God, and so He rose from the grave, and He lives forever in Heaven.

Perhaps your body will grow old, little reader, but you need not worry. If you accept the Lord Jesus as your own Saviour, believing in your heart that He died for you then you have eternal life and He will give you a body of glory someday, a perfect body without a trace of sin or pain or old age. If you will not accept Him, then you must die, and spend eternity in outer darkness, nor can the cleverest doctor in the world prevent it.

“THE WAGES OF SIN IS DEATH; BUT THE GIFT OF GOD IS ETERNAL LIFE THROUGH JESUS CHRIST OUR LORD.” Romans 6:23.

Messages of the Love of God 2/8/1948

Philip

PHILIP was just a thin little boy, not more than six years old. His Mother was dead and his father was a thief, a very bad thief who robbed stores and was chased by the police. There were several thieves who worked together, and the worst of them all was little Philip. No one could steal from the corner store without being caught, faster than Philip. His father told him that he was a very clever little boy, but no one ever told him that God saw him, and that he could not get away from God.

November had been a very hard month for the thieves. No money had come in for a long time, and the police followed them so closely that they were almost afraid to move in the daytime. One long cold evening they started out in the pouring rain and walked until poor little Philip was soaked and shivering. It was very late when they crept up into someone’s hay loft and lay down for a few hours’ sleep.

In less than five minutes everyone was snoring; everyone but Philip. His eyes were very wide and bright in the darkness. He was hot and cold, and miserable and thirsty, and no one seemed to care. I’m glad that God was watching him, loving him and caring for him every minute of that long cold night.

Before morning the thieves woke up, for it was safer not to wait until daylight. Father pushed Philip gently with his foot, but Philip was much too sick to care. He tried to stand up when the thieves grew angry, but he could only tumble down on the straw again, and even father saw that it was impossible for him to walk that day. They crept out into the early morning darkness without him.

Not long after that, the rooster crowed loudly and the little lady in the farmhouse lit her fires. She came down the path to the farmyard calling, “Here chick chick, here chick chick.” But suddenly she stopped. There was a strange sound in her barn. Not chickens nor pigs, but the sound of a little boy crying. She found him in a moment, and carried him at once to the cleanest, whitest, softest bed that Philip had ever seen in his life. She gave him water to drink and bathed his hot little hands and face and cared for him with all her heart, but he was too sick to know anything about it. For days he did not know anything and she thought he would die.

But he did not die. The time came when he could sit up and look into the dear lady’s face and ask her hundreds of questions. Sometimes she answered them and sometimes she didn’t but he loved her very much and called her Mother. It was fun to do little things for Mother as he grew stronger, to feed the chickens and pigs, to fill the woodbox and sweep the snow. But the best time of all was in the evening when the work was done, Mother would sit by the fireplace and tell him stories, wonderful stories, such as he had never heard before.

The story he liked best was of a Man named Jesus. Philip heard how they tied His hands and beat Him, and drove big nails right through His hands and feet into the wooden cross. The tears ran down the little boy’s face.

“Why did they do that, Mother? Was He a bad man?”

“No, Philip, He was very good. He fed hungry people and opened blind people’s eyes. He was very good.”

“Then what did He die for, Mother? Why did they do that to Him?”

“They did it because they hated Him. He could have gone right back to Heaven because He really was God, you know, but He chose to die for sinners.”

“What are sinners, Mother?”

“Sinners are bad people who lie and swear and steal.”

Philip’s face grew very red and he did not look up, but he asked, “Is it wrong to steal?”

“Yes, Philip. It’s a sin to steal even once.”

He looked up now and his eyes were full of tears. “Is that what Jesus died for?” he asked. “Then if that’s what Jesus died for, I’m never going to steal again,”

There were many other stories by the fireplace, but that one story he never could forget. All that happy summer, his cheeks grew rosy and his little body grew so tall and plump that you never would have known him for the same thin little Philip who came there nearly a year before. Mother wondered what she would do without her little helper.

To be continued Feb. 15th

Messages of the Love of God 2/8/1948

The Fountain

Close by a village school

A shaded fountain stood,

And boys and girls had cooling draughts,

As often as they would.

The fountain ever flowed,

Its streams were free to all,

And many children loved to come

And see the water fall.

Some drank it on the spot;

And many twice a day,

Would bring their empty pitchers there,

And bear them filled away.

But though the thirsty longed

These waters to obtain,

And with them fully quenched their thirst,

They thirsted soon again.

Not so when thirsty souls,

The living waters try,

For these, outflowing from the Rock,

The heart can satisfy.

They never thirst again,

The Lord of glory said,

Whose poor and needy souls to Christ,

The Fount of life, are led.

‘Tis there a child gets life,

Though dead in sins before;

‘Tis thence a little child may drink,

And go and thirst no more.

“Whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” Revelation 22:17.

Messages of the Love of God 2/8/1948

Bible Talks

Genesis 24:28-60.

REBEKAH then went home and told everything to her mother. It is a fine thing when children learn to tell things to their parents.

“Honor thy father and mother” Eph. 6:2, is still God’s order and cannot be disobeyed without bringing down His hand in discipline.

Eliezer awaited the invitation from Rebekah’s brother Laban, and what a hearty invitation it was, “Come in, thou blessed of the Lord.” Every kindness was shown to him, his servants, and his camels, and very soon a nice meal was ready for them. Eliezer would not eat however until he had told his errand. Everything was open and above board, and there was no false impression left. He did not say one thing and mean another. It is nice to see this straightforwardness of character in the children, of God, and it surely is honoring to the Lord. Nor was Eliezer out to see what he could get from his friends. Too many young people want to get as good a time as they can, and do not deliver their message fairly as Eliezer did. God delights in uprightness, and so the whole matter was clearly stated in the presence of Rebekah’s parents. How much happier the parents felt about it, although the decision was left entirely to her, and they acknowledged that it was of the Lord.

Again Eliezer bowed his head and worshipped. He acknowledged the Lord in all his ways, and surely He directed him. He gave jewels of gold and silver and raiment to Rebekah, as well as precious gifts to her brother and mother.

At last when everything had been talked over he relaxed, and enjoyed himself, eating of the meal which had been prepared for him and his servants.

Having considered this touching story in its practical application to us as young Christians, let us now look of its primary meaning. Eliezer, as were. marked in a previous “talk”, speaks to us of the Spirit of God who is now in this world, pleading with sinners to leave this “far country” and come to Christ. There is a place in His bright home above for all who will come.

After Rebekah had heard all about Isaac’s wealth, and what would be hers as his bride, she was asked to make her decision. Her father and mother might have hindered her, but she must decide for herself. Eliezer wanted her to go at once, and the question is put plainly to her, “Wilt thou go with this man?” Dear reader, the question is being put plainly to you too, if you are still unsaved, “Will you accept Christ as your Saviour, and start out for a Better Land?” Just as Eliezer, Abraham’s servant, was going to accompany Rebekah all the way back to Canaan if she was willing to go, so the Spirit of God will abide with the believer forever, taking him all the way to glory. Rebekah’s answer was definite. She said, “I will go.” Have you made your decision, dear young reader? If not why not do so now. Do not—delay not even a few days, as Rebekah’s mother and brother suggested she should, but decide for Christ NOW.

Jesus for your choice is waiting;

Tarry not, at once decide.

While the Spirit now is striving,

Yield and seek the Saviour’s side.

Messages of the Love of God 2/8/1948

The Bridge

HERE is a pretty little bridge, almost cut of sight under loads of beautiful white snow. There is no water flowing under it, and I see no footprints leading across it among the frosty white trees. Barbara is a little girl who goes to school every day but she doesn’t cross the bridge. Can you guess why? All winter long, she doesn’t need it!

No, Barbara has a little path farther down which is much shorter and easier for snowy days, and although she often looks at the bridge, she finds that her own path is hard as iron and safe enough even for horses or cars to travel, although her stream is much wider and deeper than the one in our picture.

But the time came when Barbara’s path was no use any longer. After a long day’s rain, there was no pretty snow on the trees, and the ice under her feet was not to be trusted. Then Barbara walked to the bridge and crossed its solid footing without even wondering if it would hold her and her bundle of books. Of course, she came home safely and Mother was glad that she had not tried to cross the softened ice.

Do our little readers hope to go to Heaven some day? Then what path are you travelling? Have you chosen to go on your own path, as Barbara did? Her path seemed safe enough for a little while, but down underneath it all, there were rocks and swift water, and the time came when her path was no more use. I’m glad that Barbara turned to the bridge before it was too late, for others have trusted rotten ice on that very same stream, and have been drowned.

Barbara made her own little path but she did not make the bridge. Of course not. She couldn’t do it. Neither can you or I make a bridge to take ourselves to Heaven for we are sinners, every one of us, and every time we try to do right, it is like making a bridge that is too short to cross the stream. God’s Word says, “All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23. A bridge that is too short would be no use at all.

The Lord Jesus Christ Himself has provided the way to God the Father. it was made at the cost of His own life, tor He died on Calvary’s cross that sinners might be forgiven and safe and happy with God His Father in Heaven. He could have gone back to the Glory by His own power and in His own right, but He chose to go down into death that we might be safe in Him.

Barbara sometimes stands on the iron bridge in springtime and watches the swirling waters and chunks of ice beating against its strong pillars. She is safe on the bridge and she feels no fear, because she did not stay on the soft ice until it was too late.

What will you do, little reader? Will you stay on your own path until it is too late? I cannot tell you when it will be too late to come to Jesus, but I can surely tell you that God’s time is NOW, and if you come today because you are a lost sinner, you will be safe in Christ for all Eternity. Remember God’s Word —

“ALL HAVE SINNED, AND COME SHORT OF THE GLORY OF GOD.” Romans 3:23.

Messages of the Love of God 2/15/1948

Philip

AUTUMN came again. It was not quite daylight when Mother rose to make the fire in the kitchen, and Philip was just pulling on his warm sweater to come and help her, when she heard a knock at the door. it was a heavy knock and a heavy footstep, and a rough-looking man outside when she opened the door. His question made her feel worse than I can tell you, for this is what he said.

“I left my little boy here a year ago. I want him to come with me.”

Philip knew his father right away and he did not think of saying “No”, though his little heart was nearly breaking when he kissed Mother goodbye, and left the happy little home in the early morning. The other thieves were nearby but nobody seemed glad to see him. They tramped all morning in silence though poor little Philip’s mind was full of questions. He wanted to cry but it was no use, nobody loved him. Why did they come for him if they did not want him?

At last he could not bear it any longer “Daddy”, he asked timidly, “Where are we going?”

“I’ll tell you when I feel like it,” said Daddy, and that was his only answer.

At noon they stopped to eat the buns that Mother had packed for Philip. The little fellow bowed his head, as he always did at home, to thank God for the gift of daily bread, but when he opened his eyes he saw three angry frowns. Father thought it was time to explain where they were going, so he began,

“There’s a big empty house, Philip, just outside the city. No one is living there now, but a very rich family used to live there and now they have gone away for the winter and they have left plenty for us. There’s jewelry and silverware more than we can carry. But it is locked and barred, all but a little window in the third story, just big enough for you to crawl through. The ladder is ready and that’s your job tonight and an easy one it is too.”

Philip used to think it was fun to do things like that, but now there was a lump in his throat and he felt as if he could not speak. At last he said, “Father, I’m never going to steal again.”

“Why not?” asked one of the men.

“Because that’s what Jesus died for, and I’m never going to steal again.”

The name of Jesus in Philip’s quiet voice made all the men angry. They talked and scolded and frightened and laughed at him, but all he would say was, “That’s what Jesus died for, and I’m never going to steal again.”

All the long afternoon they walked towards the city, and in the dark evening they reached the house, standing alone with plenty of trees to hide the thieves. Philip’s heart was beating hard as the men held the ladder steady in the cement walk, against the window.

“Now, Philip,” said Father, “Climb up.”

He had scarcely time to say “No,” for his father seized him, shook him and kicked him with angry words scarcely above a whisper. But Philip would not move. He only repeated, when his father stopped, “That’s what Jesus died for, and I’m never going to steal again.”

One of the thieves saw that it was no use to punish the boy, so he came up and whispered in his ear, “You don’t need to steal. It won’t be your fault. Just open the window and leave the rest to us.”

Philip thought a moment. Perhaps it would not be his fault really. He listened to the Devil’s temptations and he climbed the ladder.

It was very dark and very high, Philip turned and looked down at the faces of the three thieves turned towards him. “Hold the ladder tight Daddy,” he whispered.

“I’m holding it, Go on.”

To be continued Feb. 22nd.

Messages of the Love of God 2/15/1948

Love One Another

It was Saturday night, and two children small

Sat on the stairs in a lighted hall,

Vexed and troubled and sore perplexed,

To learn for Sunday the memory text;

Only three words on a gilded card;

“LOVE, that is easy—it means, why this

(A warm embrace and a loving kiss!);

But ONE ANOTHER, I don’t see who

Is meant by ANOTHER; now, May, do you?”

Very grandly she raised her head,

Our thoughtful darling, and slowly said,

As she fondly smiled on her dear little brother:

“Why, I am ONE, and you are ANOTHER.

“And this is the meaning, don’t you see?

That I must love you, and you must love me.”

Wise little preacher! Could any sage Interpret better the sacred page?

Dear children, ask the Lord to help you to understand your verse as you learn it for Sunday School. God speaks to us through His Word, and He wants it to be a blessing to our souls.

Messages of the Love of God 2/15/1948

Bible Talks

Genesis 24:61-67-Genesis 25:1-18.

REBEKAH started out at once on the long journey across the desert. She was on her way to meet Isaac, and the whole journey is passed over by the inspired writer in a few words; she “followed the man.” She did not have to make the journey in her own strength, for the camels carried her, and the “man” guided her safely through the dangers of the wilderness. The way to Glory will not seem so long and hard to those of us who belong to the Lord, if we too follow the guidance of the Spirit of God through the Word.

Isaac came out to meet her in the field, and so the Lord will soon come for us; for we who are saved are the bride of Christ. Rebekah was watching as well as waiting to see Isaac, and was glad to alight from her camel and go to meet him. Are we, dear young believers, watching and waiting for the Lord to come at any moment? Are we willing to leave our “camels” and all that connects us with this wilderness world, and go out to meet Him?

How wonderfully the story ends! Isaac himself escorted her to his mother’s tent, and she became his wife; and he loved her. Surely this speaks to us of the love of Christ, and when He takes us to His home above, we shall still be, as we are now, the objects of His love for ever. Nothing can separate us from that love which passeth knowledge. Can the reader of this little paper say, “The Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me”? Galatians 2:20.

Abraham gave all he had to Isaac, the promised heir, and we know too that God the Father has put all into His Son’s hands, who will in the coming day share it with His bride (the church) as Isaac did with Rebekah his wife.

At last Abraham’s long life ended, and he too was buried in the field he had purchased. He had been a stranger and a pilgrim, looking for the fulfilment of God’s promise—the possession of Canaan. However, he “received the promise” (Hebrews 11:9) as to earthly blessing, but he died in faith and will have something better a—heavenly portion. Like Sarah he was buried in Canaan, because he knew that God was the God of resurrection, and that He had not forgotten His promises.

Isaac was a man of faith too, and God blessed him. He dwelt by the well La-hoi-roi. This was the place where he had met Rebekah when she came back with Eliezer, and it means “the well of Him that liveth and seeth.” How good for us as young people, when we learn to live in the sense of God’s presence, and in the enjoyment of our relationship to Christ as His espoused bride.

To all outward appearances Ishmael did not seem to have anything like the troubles that Isaac did, but God passes over his life, as well as the lives of his family in a very few words. Ishmael, as far as we know, was not a man of faith, and his life was of little importance in the eyes of God. “Without faith it is impossible to please Him [God].” Hebrews 11:6. Dear young reader, how does your life appear before God? Have you a real living faith in the Lord Jesus? so that you can say, “I know Whom I have believed.” 2 Timothy 1:12.

Messages of the Love of God 2/15/1948

The Blacksmith's Lesson

THE blacksmith was a very clever man and a very busy one. All the day long he worked over his roaring fire, making the most wonderful things out of iron and steel. There were hundreds of horses trotting about in shoes that he had put on, and there were ever so many broken wagon wheels, and keys and locks, and bars of all kinds made or repaired in his shop.

One visitor to his shop was a farmer who gave him an order to make a beautiful iron gate. As the blacksmith set willingly to work, the farmer began to talk to him about the Lord Jesus Christ. He found that the man went regularly to hear the Word of God, and knew all about the sufferings and death of the Saviour, but still hoped that he had earned for himself a place in Heaven. He thought that Christ had done part of the work, and he must do the rest, and so he was never quite sure that he had done enough. The farmer went home, but he prayed often for the blacksmith until the time came to pay his second visit to the shop.

He found the busy man busier than ever, but the new iron gate was leaning up against the wall, beautifully finished and all ready to be taken away. The farmer thought that the workmanship was very good indeed, but he picked up an iron file and began noisily scratching at one of the bars. At once the blacksmith came running from his shop to see what was the trouble.

“What are you doing?” he shouted. “I’m just finishing the gate,” said the farmer.

“But it’s finished, man!” cried the blacksmith. “You are just spoiling my work.”

The farmer laid down his tool and put his hand on the blacksmith’s shoulder. “Don’t you see?” he answered. “Christ’s work is finished too. When He gave up His life on the cross, He said ‘It is finished’, and anything that you try to add is only spoiling His finished work.”

The blacksmith went back to his fire, but the words, “It is finished” kept repeating themselves over and over in his mind, until at last he left the hammer and the fire and the noise of his shop, and knelt down alone to thank the Lord Jesus for His finished work. Now he is saved, he knows that his place is prepared in Heaven by the blessed Saviour who died for him, and he loves to please the One who has done everything for him.

Have you learned the blacksmith’s lesson? Have you thanked the Lord Jesus for His finished work?

“JESUS ... SAID IT IS FINISHED: AND HE BOWED HIS HEAD, AND GAVE UP THE GHOST. John 19:30.

Messages of the Love of God 2/22/1948

Philip

PHILIP climbed to the second story and looked down again. It was a long way down but he could still see the three faces watching him, and he called again in a loud whisper, “Hold the ladder tight, Daddy,” and the answer was “Go on.”

At the foot of the third story window he looked down again. The ground was a long, long way below him. He could see the three thieves at the foot of the ladder and he could see—or thought he saw—a man,—two men, coming quickly around the corner of the house. The thieves saw them at the same moment and they let go the ladder and ran, up over the fence and across the fields, and the ladder slipped—and fell.

The two policemen picked up from the ground a little broken body.

Again Philip was laid on the cleanest, whitest bed you can imagine, and again he didn’t know anything about it. For days he lay in the hospital, not feeling anything at all, and the doctor thought he would die.

One evening, a new nurse came to the room where Philip was lying, a new nurse with a very white cap and uniform, and a very tender heart. She saw the little boy and did not know who he was, but he was wide awake now and there were deep sad wrinkles in his forehead.

“What’s wrong, little boy,” she asked kindly, “Does it hurt?”

“No.”

“Then what is the trouble?” She tried to smooth out the wrinkles. “Could I help you?”

Philip turned his face away and it was some moments before he answered, “I want to go to heaven, and I — can’t.”

“Yes, you can,” she answered quickly. “The Lord Jesus loves little children. He took them up in His arms when He was here. He loves you, Philip, and He wants to have you with Him in Heaven. Don’t you know that He died for you?”

“Not for me,” said Philip, and the wrinkles grew deeper.

“Yes, for you, Philip. He died on the cross to wash away our sins. Trust Him and He will save you.”

But Philip only repeated sadly, “Not for me. You don’t know how bad I am,”

The nurse was silent a moment, quietly asking God to teach her how to show this little boy that Jesus loved him. Then she opened her Bible, and turned over the pages to the twenty-third chapter of Luke.

“Is a thief bad enough for you, Philip?” she asked, and she wondered why his pale face flushed as he answered, “Yes.”

Then she read the most wonderful story in the world, the story of the death of the Son of God. Do you know the story, boys and girls? Do you remember how they spit in His blessed face and pounded great nails through His hands and feet, and even God turned away from His sufferings in those hours of darkness. And even when the pain was worse than we can think of, Jesus turned in lovingkindness to the thief who confessed Him as Lord, and said, “Today shalt thou be with Me in Paradise.”

When the nurse had finished reading she looked up at Philip. “That thief is in Heaven, Philip. Can you go now?”

“Yes,” he answered, and the deep wrinkles were all smoothed out.

“Why?” she asked.

“Because the Lord Jesus died for me.” His face was full of happiness as he repeated softly over and over, “He died for me, and He loves me, and I’m going to be with Him.”

The next evening, the same nurse came again in her clean white uniform, and her very first visit was to Philip’s room. She found the white covers smoothed evenly over the empty bed, and she knew at once that little Philip had gone to be with Jesus.

Would you like to go to be with Jesus too? Jesus loves you and longs to have you, but you cannot go to Heaven in your sins. They must be put away before you can enter that bright Home above, and that is why the Lord Jesus endured that awful suffering, bearing our sins in His own body on the tree, so that He could save sinners like you and me. Will you not believe in Him, as Philip did, and then you will be able to say, “The Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20.

Messages of the Love of God 2/22/1948

You Never Told Me So

JESUS died for us daddy,” said a little boy, not quite four years old, to his father as they went for a walk together.

“What?” his father asked roughly, as the words startled him.

“Yes daddy, Jesus died for us, but you never told me so.”

“Who has been telling you this?” demanded his father, and little Roy looked up into his father’s face and said, “The teacher in Sunday School said Jesus died for us.”

His father was silent. He loved his little fair-haired boy with all his heart, and the words, “You never told me so,” rang in his ears. He thought of the Sundays he had spent in pleasure—for he cared for none of these things and did not even believe there was a God — only sending little Roy to Sunday School that he might have more time for his pleasure. But the more he thought of it the more he realized what a sinner he was, and that very night he went to hear the gospel preached.

The preacher spoke of wrath, and the place to which those who will not take Christ as their Saviour will go, but he also told of the precious blood of Christ —God’s remedy for sin. Roy’s father listened and believed, and that night accepted Christ as his Saviour. Never, however, did he forget those solemn words, “You never told me so.”

Messages of the Love of God 2/22/1948

Bible Talks

Genesis 25:11, 19-23.

LET us stand, as Isaac did, by the well of “Him that liveth and seeth” and look out on life from there. It is of all importance that we have the right point of view when looking at things. Yes, we need God’s viewpoint, for He sees all that we do, hears all that we say, and even knows our very thoughts. He is recording our lives too, and “Only what’s done for Christ will last.” How about those big plans to make a name for ourselves, or to find a resting-place in this world where He was the rejected One? How will they appear in the presence of Him who was once crucified and cast out by sinful men?

Life is so short, and the Lord’s coming is near —very near. We have only a little time to live for Him who died for us and rose again. The fields too are “white already to harvest” John 4:35, and the laborers are few. Many who should have been serving the Lord are either taken up with the cares of this world, or discouraged, for if there ever was a time when Satan was making an assault on the children of God, it is to-day. He has his traps laid with the camouflaging so well arranged that things look very attractive, and there are few who choose the safe, though unpopular, path of obedience to God and His Word.

As you read this, you probably have your health and energy, and how nice it would be if you used them for the Lord, owning His claims over your life. There are open doors on every hand. There are people who have never heard the Gospel even in our own lands. There are old people too who would appreciate a visit, with a few kindly words and a smile from someone who is young, and this may give an opportunity to speak to them about our precious Saviour, and His love. There are young people who are looking for encouragement; who long to find some other young person who wants to follow the Lord, and though we cannot do anything in our own strength, the One “who liveth and seeth” is able not only to show us the right path, but will enable us to walk in it. May the Lord grant blessing on our “meditations by the well” (Genesis 24:62, 63) and give us the grace to not only be hearers of the Word, but doers also.

Isaac asked the Lord for a son to be the heir of all He had promised him, and the Lord heard his prayer. Rebekah had twins, and it is sweet to notice the simplicity of her faith in it all. When there was something she could not understand, she “went to inquire of the Lord.” What a privilege we have as children of God to be able to look to Him in all our difficulties and problems. God’s answer too was one which only faith could lay hold of. How could it be known beforehand that “the elder shall serve the younger.” This is one of the great problems of unbelief, but one of the simple things to faith. God knows—yes, He knows everything, past, present, and future, for they are all the same to Him who can “call those things that be not as though they were.” Rom. 4:17. There are several instances in the Bible where God has told us the names of men, and what they would do, hundreds of years before they were born. It will quiet our fears, and settle our problems as believers, if we always keep these two words in our hearts and memories; God knows.

Messages of the Love of God 2/22/1948

The Honey Bird

HERE is a picture of a boy who lives in the jungle in far-away Africa. They have very few roads there, and one day a group of natives were seen tramping along the jungle path with heavy packs on their backs. It was a warm day and the narrow, dusty path seemed to get hotter and hotter to the black men’s tired, weary feet. They were hungry too as they travelled along.

Suddenly they heard the sound of the honey-bird. At once they all said, “Let’s follow the honey-bird.” Yes, for a time they forgot the dusty path and their aching feet. They dropped their heavy loads and rested them against some trees where they would be easy to find again. Deep into the jungle they went, following the direction of the honey-bird.

This wasn’t the first time the carriers had followed the honey-bird. They knew well that he had something good in store for them. That is why they so gladly ran behind him as he flew from tree to tree singing his little song.

Soon the little bird stopped flying and perched on the limb of a tree. The black men quickly looked around for the nearest hollow tree and, as they expected, they found it filled with honey combs, dripping with delicious, wild honey!

Perhaps you never heard of the honey-bird, but these black men knew that if they followed him, he would lead them to honey, and that was just what they wanted.

Dear boys and girls, you are on a journey too, and you will certainly find yourselves tired and hungry. You are travelling through this world to eternity, and there are many things offered along the way which are supposed to satisfy your heart. Satan offers you the “pleasures of sin for a season.” Hebrews 11:25. He offers many things which most people would call quite harmless, but they will keep you away from the Lord Jesus.

And what does the Lord Jesus offer to anyone who is weary along life’s journey? He says, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matt. 11:28.

“O TASTE AND SEE THAT THE LORD IS GOOD: BLESSED IS THE MAN THAT TRUSTETH IN HIM.” Psalms 34:8.

Messages of the Love of God 2/29/1948

Let Go Your Hold

EVERY boy likes to play around a house that is being built. This story is about a group of young lads who were having a lot of fun running around an unfinished house trying to outdo one another in acts of bravery. At last one little fellow said that he would like to go to the top of the scaffold and look down. Away he went up the ladder and was soon at the top. Now for the big thrill! He looked down and was so interested in what he saw that he leaned too far forward and lost his balance. However, in falling he managed to catch hold of one of the cross-poles. There he hung, calling loudly for someone to come and help him.

Now if you stop to think of it, you are in a far worse position than that little boy, if you are unsaved, and yet perhaps you are not calling out in your need.

One of the workmen, hearing the cry, came and stood underneath him. Then he called out, “Let go your hold, my boy, and I will catch you.” But he hung on and kept calling for someone to come and take him down. In a very short time, he couldn’t hold on any longer and so dropped down and was caught safely in the strong workman’s arms.

Just as the workman stood waiting to catch that little boy, so the- Lord Jesus stands waiting to save you. he is both able and willing, and He asks you to let go of those things which you may now be trusting— your good works, your prayers, or whatever else you may think is helping you toward heaven. The Lord Jesus Christ asks you to let Him save you—NOW.

Do not continue to refuse His offers of mercy, for it will soon be too late. Then His strong arms will no longer be stretched out to save you, and you will slip into a lost eternity.

“Behold, NOW is the day of salvation.” 2 Cor. 6:2.

Messages of the Love of God 2/29/1948

The Peace of God

CAN we have the peace of God in our hearts? In a world of unrest and confusion this is surely an important question. God who has undertaken for our salvation is concerned with our happiness all along life’s pathway and we can still hear those blessed words spoken to His disciples in the upper room after His resurrection, “Peace be unto you.” He wants us to have peace, and since we are not wise enough to pilot our own frail harks over life’s rough sea, let us turn to Him who is perfect in wisdom, love, and power, putting the helm in His Hand.

In Philippians 4:6, we read four wonderful words; “Be careful for nothing.” God does not want His children to be filled with care, because He cares for them in His tender love. Of course we know that such words as these could not be spoken to one who is unsaved. We must have “peace with God” by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (Romans 5:1.) before we can learn anything about the “peace of God.” The moment a sinner accepts Christ as his Saviour, he knows that the sin question is settled for ever through the work accomplished at Calvary, but all the children of God do not enjoy the peace of God in their souls day by day. The peace of God is the very peace of God’s throne—the peace in which He Himself dwells. Can it be ours?

Yes, it can, for the Lord Jesus left it to His own before He went back to Glory. He said, “My peace I give unto you.” John 14:27. We are writing this message for you, dear young people, because young as well as old seem to suffer with that all-too-common disease called “WORRY.” There is probably more unhappiness, and even sickness in the world through worry than anything else, even in spite of the fact that we who are saved know so many of those precious promises which should encourage us to trust the Lord at all times. One Christian writer put it very clearly when he wrote,

If you trust you do not worry,
If you worry, you do not trust.

Are you misunderstood by others; perhaps even by your parents and by your best friends? Are others getting along so much better than you, and yet you are really trying to please the Lord? Do you have some difficult decision to make, and you hardly know which way to turn? These are only a few of the problems of youth, and they make us feel so helpless (a feeling which youth hates!) but the Lord knows all about these things, and He has told us what to do, and to Whom we should turn.

Ah yes, listen to His words, “In everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.” Everything means everything. There is no matter too small or too great to make known to God our Father. He will never betray our confidence, as earthly friends sometimes do. He will never fail to share every trial we bring to Him, and He is perfect in wisdom, love, and power.

What then is the grand result of bringing all to Him? “The peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep [or garrison] your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.” What a wonderful garrison against the great enemy WORRY The PEACE OF GOD —the very peace in which He dwells, undisturbed by all man’s busy movements, will keep our hearts and minds. God wants you to know and enjoy this dear young reader. “Take your burden to the Lord, and leave it there.”

Messages of the Love of God 2/29/1948

Bible Talks

Genesis 25:24-34-Genesis 26:1-6.

AT last the two sons were born, Esau being the firstborn and Jacob the younger. Esau was a man of the field, and Isaac loved him because of his venison. Are we not like Isaac in this way quite often? We love people, not because of their faith, or devotedness to the Lord, but because of what they do for us. It reminds one of the Scripture, “A gift doth blind the eyes.” Deut. 16:19. We need to have the single eye so that we can appreciate the kindness of others, without allowing it to blind our eyes to what we should see for the Lord’s glory.

Jacob had his failures and God has faithfully told us about them. Let us remember that although God has recorded the failures of His people, He does it to warn us, and does not excuse them. Even godly men can fail, and fail badly, when they are not watchful. Jacob was a schemer. He always had a plan of his own ready, and could not wait God’s time. Don’t we often scheme like this too, making our own plans because we do not want to wait on the Lord? Such plans, when we leave the Lord out, will always bring sorrow, though at first they may seem to prosper. God had said that Esau, the older, should serve Jacob, the younger, but Jacob thought he had to do something to make God’s promise sure. He made his own arrangements and bought Esau’s birthright. Of course Esau should never have sold it, but two wrongs NEVER make a right, and Jacob found this out later to his sorrow.

Let us look a little more carefully at Esau’s act. He had a birthright. He was the firstborn, and he should not have sold his birthright for a mess of pottage. And you too, dear reader, have a birthright. You have been born in a Christian land where we have an open Bible, and perhaps you have Christian parents too. Salvation is offered to you, and this is your birthright. Are you despising it? Are you saying as Esau, “Behold I am at the point to die: and what profit shall this birthright do to me?” Do not sell it; do not despise it. If you do, you will come to the time, as Esau did, when many tears will not bring it back, and you will realize that it is too late. Think of the “weeping and gnashing of teeth” Matt. 25:30, that will be yours forever, if you reject Christ as your Saviour. You may get a few short moments of pleasure in this sinful world, in return for selling it, but what is that in view of eternity?

There had been a famine in Abraham’s day, and now there is another one to try Isaac. He started to go down into Egypt, but the Lord graciously intervened, hindering him from going all the way. How sweet were the words spoken by the Lord, “Sojourn in this land, and I will be with thee, and will bless thee.” God had not forgotten His promises in spite of the famine. Whenever God asks His children to walk in a path of faith, He sustains them if they look to Him in dependence. It is always easier however to get away, than to get back, and sometimes God has to use unpleasant circumstances to bring us into the place where He would have us. We shall see this in Isaac’s experiences in Gerar.

Messages of the Love of God 2/29/1948

Bible Questions for March

The Children’s Class

The Answers are to be found in Proverbs Chapters 16-23.

Write in full the verse in which you find the words:

1.“Give me thine heart.”

2.“Rather to be chosen than silver.”

3.“A way that seemeth right.”

4.“Idle soul shall suffer hunger.”

5.“Wine is a mocker.”

6.“He also shall cry himself.”

7.“But the simple pass on.”

“The Young People’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in Proverbs Chapters 16-23.

1.How can we keep our souls from trouble?

2.With whom does God tell us to “make no friendship”?

3.What is the right way to make our enemies, be at peace with us?

4.Who is better than the mighty?

5.What kind of a man digs up evil?

6.Should we “answer a matter” before we hear it (both sides)?

7.When we mock the poor, whom do we reproach?

Messages of the Love of God 3/7/1948

Little Fish

JUST one little goldfish in a pretty glass bowl, but how the kittens love to watch it! No doubt they would like to eat it, but since they do not like to wet their feet, not one of them is brave enough to catch it.

God made that little fish grow from a tiny egg, and He gave it fins to swim in the water, and wonderful gills on each side of its head, so that it can live in the water far more comfortably than you could do!

What could the Lord Jesus do with a little fish like that? I can tell you what He did with two small fishes many years ago, when He was on earth. A lad, perhaps just your size, came out to the desert to hear the words of Jesus, and brought with him five barley loaves and two little fishes. That was all. There were five thousand men there, with women and children too, but when the Lord Jesus divided up those five loaves and two little fishes, and His disciples passed it around, there was enough for everybody. Yes, more than enough, for there were twelve baskets of food left over.

It is wonderful what the Lord Jesus could do with such a little bit of food, isn’t it? But first of all, the lad had to give it to Him. It is wonderful, far more wonderful, what the Lord Jesus can do with you but first of all you must give your heart to Him. He wants you, no matter how small you are. He could not even be satisfied in Heaven if one of His own little ones were left to perish. Do you belong to Him? If not, will you give your heart to Him today? Then the Lord Jesus will say about you,

“THEY SHALL NEVER PERISH, NEITHER SHALL ANY MAN PLUCK THEM OUT OF MY HAND.” John 10:28.

Messages of the Love of God 3/7/1948

Who Saved Me

IT was Saturday afternoon in the middle of July, and the sandy beach was crowded with boys and girls. Everyone seemed very happy and there did not seem to be one anxious face.

Yet there was one. A rough-faced, weather-beaten man paced up and down the sands near the water’s edge, and with half closed eyes watched the movements of some boys who were swimming. The bright, warm, sunny day had made them unusually daring, and this man, known as the Lifeguard, had warned them of a strong current, and he worried for their safety.

Presently, down the beach there arose a loud cry, “A boy is drowning!”

The Lifeguard ran to the spot and immediately dived in and swam towards the spot where the boy was struggling with the strong current. Before he reached him the boy had gone down and it was some moments before the Lifeguard could find him.

At last they were brought in by a boat which had been put out to help them, but as the eager crowd caught a glimpse of the poor boy with his head down on the Lifeguard’s back, they said, “He is drowned.”

At once every possible means was used to restore the boy, but to all appearance it was useless. When everyone else had given up hope, the Life guard continued working and hoping although it looked as though he were trying to revive a dead body. At last there seemed some sign of life.

After a time the eyes of the young lad opened for a moment and looking up he asked the question, “Who saved me?”

“I did.” said the Lifeguard.

A look of thanks was all the boy could give just then, and he closed his eyes and slept. The rough, weather-beaten seaman said that of all the rewards he had ever received for saving life, that was the best, for he remarked, “You see, the first words he spoke were ‘Who saved me?’”

As I turned homewards, I thought of the merry scene where all were having a good time, and yet danger was so very near. Then I thought of Him who is indeed our Redeemer and how He laid down His life to save me. Yet how few know Him as a personal Saviour? How few have given Him as much as a look of thanks for all that He has done. Let us take our place with Paul who said, “The Son of God, Who loved me, and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20.

Messages of the Love of God 3/7/1948

A Little Prayer

A TINY little fellow of about three or four years old had climbed, as little boys often like to do, upon a large pile of wood in a farmyard. He didn’t think when he was climbing up, just how he was to get back. When his little friend saw how high up he was, he said, “Watch out there, Bertie, you’ll fall.” Bertie looked down and got very frightened, but what do you think he did? He just raised his head, put up his little hands and said in his own funny way, “God help this little boy.” And instead of falling, he seemed to gain courage after he had said his little prayer, and got down in perfect safety.

Bertie’s father and mother are Christians and have taught their little ones about the love of God, and how they should trust Him at all times.

“Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto Me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 19:14.

Jesus loves me though I’m bad,

And he waits to make me glad,

Waits to fold me in His arms,

Keeps me safe from every harm.

Messages of the Love of God 3/7/1948

Bible Talks

Genesis 26:7-18.

ISAAC failed in the same way as his father had done when among the Philistines many years before. Whenever any one of us try to go on with the world we too deny our proper relationship to Christ, just as Isaac denied Rebekah his wife in our chapter. We find however, if true Christians, that we cannot go on this way indefinitely. It must come out. A real believer can never deny Christ from his heart, and so here Abimelech saw Isaac enjoying his wife’s company. He truly loved her in spite of his lip denial, just as Peter loved his Lord although his lips denied Him. God used Abimelech to rebuke Isaac for the lie he had told, and surely this was a humbling experience. May the Lord help us to walk in such a way that we do not bring dishonor on His blessed Name.

Isaac had planned to go down into Egypt to escape the famine, but when he listened to the voice of the Lord, and remained in the land the Lord blessed him. He had his testing and trial, discovering too his own weakness, but God was faithful and gave him a wonderful harvest. He could never have expected to reap a hundredfold in Egypt. Egypt, which speaks to us of this world in its glory, is a poor place to go to get out of trouble. Isaac proved that the path of obedience was the best.

The Lord’s blessing upon Isaac made him the object of the envy of the Philistines. When the Lord is blessing one of His children, the enemy often brings on a special attack, and we need to be on guard. When Job was prospering so wonderfully, Satan was preparing his great assault. When Peter was on the mount he made one of his worst blunders, and would have put the Lord on the level of Moses and Elias. Here too, when Isaac had increased in wealth, and been blessed so richly, he neglected to look after the wells his father Abraham had digged, and the Philistines had filled them up with earth. Many of our young readers have Christian fathers and mothers who have digged “wells.” Yes, they have taught us the truth from childhood, and the Philistines, who typify the flesh, have been filling up these wells while we have been resting on our oars, and thinking all is well. We need to be on our guard all the time, for there will always be warfare as long as we are in this world, and Satan knows our unguarded points. He wants to rob us of our “wells”—our joy in the Lord—and then he can lead us still farther away from Him. If we are not finding our happiness in Christ we will assuredly be seeking it elsewhere, because we all want happiness. No one wants to be miserable!

At last Abimelech asked Isaac to leave, because he said, “Thou art much mightier than we.” Yes, we read in 1 John 4:4, “Greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world”, and the world knows it! Let us draw on our blessed source of strength in Christ, and we will have the victory, in the energy of faith Isaac digged again his father’s wells, which the Philistines had filled up, and called them by the same names as his father had called them. The great tendency today is to say that times have changed, and to try to make the truth more popular by calling things by different names. God’s truth does not change with man’s changing ideas. “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but My Words shall not pass away.” Matt. 24:35.

Messages of the Love of God 3/7/1948

Caring for Little Brother

HAVE you ever been left at home to care for little brother or sister, while Mother went out f or a while? The little boys in our picture look as if they enjoyed caring for the little fellows, and I’m sure that Mother will be pleased when she comes back to find that the little ones are safe and happy.

If you sometimes help to care for little ones, you should remember that each boy or girl has a body, and in that body is a soul which will live forever and forever. Of course you want to make sure that little brother’s body is not hurt or cut or knocked down by a car! You would not want to be like Ethel, who was supposed to watch her little brother Stanley, but instead of that, she read a book while Stanley wandered away and was lost for two long years!

But what can you do for the little soul that will live forever? Remember that little souls can be lost too, and that is far worse than wandering away as Stanley did, because a lost soul that goes to hell is never found again — never! You can tell the little ones the way to Heaven, through the Lord Jesus Christ, but first of all, you must know the Saviour for yourself. Do you know Him? Can you say that though you were once a poor lost sinner, the Lord Jesus loved you so much that He died to wash away your sins? If you know Him and love Him, then tell other little ones about Him, so that they too will learn to trust in Jesus, and be saved forever and forever.

“IT IS NOT THE WILL OF MY FATHER WHICH IS IN HEAVEN THAT ONE OF THESE LITTLE ONES SHOULD PERISH.” Matt. 18:14.

Messages of the Love of God 3/14/1948

Hannah

HANNAH, a poor woman in one of the crowded districts of London was lying alone and very ill in her one little room. There was no fire in the grate, and the cold east wind swept in through the broken window.

She shivered and moaned while lying there, but it was not only with pain. She was dying and not ready to meet God—she was a sinner and knew that God must punish sin.

Two boys were playing noisily in the yard beneath Hannah’s window. A kind neighbor called and told them how ill the old woman was, and in a moment they were still. Presently Jack said, “Will, she would go to heaven when she dies if she believed on the Lord Jesus.”

“That is true,” answered Will, “but I wonder if she knows that Jesus died to put away our sins. It may be she has never heard that “The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7.

Then Jack said, “If you will help me Will, I will climb up to the window and call through the broken pane, ‘Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved,’” Acts 16:31.

About an hour later, the neighbor who had spoken to the boys went to sit a while with Hannah, for she said, “It is a terrible thing to be dying alone, and not ready to go.” When she reached the door of Hannah’s room, she heard no sound, and thought she was already gone. Lighting a candle she held it close to the old woman’s face, and to her amazement found it a face full of joy.

“O, neighbor,” Hannah said, “the Lord Jesus has washed me in His precious blood—my sins are all forgiven. While I was lying here afraid to die in all my sins, I heard a voice saying, ‘Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved,’ and again, ‘He died for you,’ and then it all came back to me what I had heard long ago —that the Lord Jesus bore my sins on Calvary’s cross. I just took Him as my Saviour and now I have such peace and know that I am going home to see Him who died for me.”

Dear reader, do you, like Jack and Will, know the Lord Jesus as your Saviour, or are you still a stranger to His love and grace? If so will you not, as Hannah did, just take Him for your own personal Saviour. Let me urge you to trust Him now, tomorrow may be too late.

Messages of the Love of God 3/14/1948

A Child's Prayer

ONE warm day in July, Mr. Martin was walking through a big park. He was tired and soon stopped to rest under a big shady tree. As he was looking around at the flowers and bushes in the park, he heard a quiet childish voice nearby. He looked in every direction, and soon found a little fellow kneeling beside the trunk of a tree, with his hands clasped together, and his face turned up to heaven in earnest prayer, little thinking that anyone was near. Mr. Martin listened carefully and heard the dear little fellow saying in a soft voice, half choked with sighs, “Dear Saviour, wash away her sins and save my dear mother.”

As he rose from his knees, Mr. Martin stepped forward and, taking his hand, asked him where he lived.

“I live down there in that small house.”

“And where did you learn to pray, my dear boy?”

“At the Sunday-school, where my teacher told me that Jesus died for me.” “And do you love the Lord who died for you?”

“Indeed, I do, and I so wish my dear mother loved Him too, for she is very sick and may soon die. I try all I can to tell her of Jesus, and I pray to God for her and father.”

“And do you think He hears your prayers, and will really save your father and mother?”

“Oh, yes, for my teacher tells me that God loves to hear children pray, and that whatever we ask in the name of Jesus, He is sure to give us.”

Having said this, the little fellow added, “Now I must go; good-bye.” So he drew away his hand and ran off to his home.

About a year later, Mr. Martin was again in the same town, so called to inquire after his little friend. His father answered the door and told him that the dear little boy and his mother were both dead. He was happy to tell that his wife had found, before she died, the forgiveness of her sins through faith in the Lord Jesus. The dear little boy had told her the sweet story and the Lord had answered his prayers. He said too, that after his mother’s death, the little lad used to come and tell him all he learned at the Sunday School, and that through this he too had been brought to put his trust in Jesus.

The poor father wept as he talked about his dear boy, and as he wiped away his tears, said: “I urn now it waiting to join him and my dear wife above, there to praise the blessed One that taught us both to love Him through the lips of our child.”

“Go home to thy friends, and tell them how great things the Lord hath done for thee, and hath had compassion on thee.” Mark 5:19.

Messages of the Love of God 3/14/1948

Two Brave Miners

AS two miners were working together, deep down in the darkness of the mine, there was a loud rumble and then a crash! They realized that the other workers would be trapped, if not instantly killed, but as they themselves were on the safe side of the explosion, they fled. Along the dark, gloomy winding way they hurried, thinking of the heart-broken wives of the entombed men, but the air was quickly filling with poisonous gasses.

“I cannot go further,” said Bennet, sinking down on the ground,” I am choking and faint.”

“I’ll shake him,” said his comrade, “come, try once again,” and with a great effort Bennet got up and pushed on toward the shaft with Thomas. They hurried on as well as they could, Bennet now leading the way, but when he reached the shaft and safety he found to his horror that Thomas had not followed him. He had fainted and fallen —though he might have come safely to the surface alone, he lingered to rouse his fellow-worker and lost his life through the delay.

When the Lord Jesus hung on the cross these words were flung at Him— “He saved others; Himself He cannot save.” Matt. 27:42. We know that He WOULD not save Himself because of His great love for sinners such as you and I, “For when we were yet without strength . . . Christ died for the ungodly.” Rom. 5:6.

Messages of the Love of God 3/14/1948

Bible Talks

Genesis 26:19-35.

AFTER Isaac had digged out all his father’s wells, then his servants dug another one—a well of springing water. There is progress here. We cannot stand still in the things of God, for if we are not growing in our souls, we are sure to go backward. The new well is a special cause of contention. How the enemy hates to see the children of God making progress! Notice they say, “The water is ours”, not “The well is ours.” Unsaved people do not want Christ, the Source from which all blessings flow, but they like to get the blessings. No doubt there could have been, more energy displayed on the part of Isaac, in contending for these wells, for God had said, “Sojourn in this land, and I will ... . bless thee.” However, the Lord graciously undertook f or him, allowing him to have other wells until he finally got back to Beer-sheba. There a covenant was made, as Abimelech had, made with Abraham previously, to have peaceful possession of that part of the land. May the Lord give us the energy of faith to go on possessing more of what is ours in Christ, even though there are “many adversaries,”

It is a good thing indeed when others see in us as Abimelech observed about Isaac, that the Lord was with him even though they hated him. If we walk honorably and blamelessly, but do not confess Christ, we escape His reproach; or if we talk well but walk badly, we bring reproach on His Name. God would have us to talk of Christ, and walk to please Him too; then we will bear His reproach, and bring honor to His worthy Name.

When Esau was forty years old, he took a wife of the daughters of the land. We often read of periods of forty days, and forty years in the Bible. The children of Israel spent forty years in the wilderness; Moses spent forty years in Pharaoh’s court, forty years on the backside of the desert, and forty days on the mount. Other cases could be given too. It is always looked upon as a period of testing, and so here we can see the true state of Esau’s heart. Dear young Christian, weigh this statement well, and even the younger folks can remember it when they grow older; “The partner you choose for life will shew your state of soul more than anything else.” If you walk with God He will lead you to the right one, for be assured it will mould your whole life for good or bad to a tremendous degree. No wonder Esau’s choice to marry wives from among the idolatrous people of the land, was a grief of mind to his father and mother.

If you belong to the Lord, dear reader, be careful of the company you keep. There is a good verse in Psalm 119:63 for us all to remember. “I am a companion of all them that fear Thee, and of them that keep thy precepts.” Our intentions may be ever so good, but we are only safe as we “cleave to the Lord with purpose of heart”, and learn to walk in the path of obedience day by day. Then when the time of decision comes we will be able to say like Abraham’s servant, “I being in the way, the Lord led me to the house of my master’s brethren.” Genesis 24:27.

Messages of the Love of God 3/14/1948

Niagara Falls

HERE is a problem for some of our little friends to answer: Is water weak or strong?

Of course it is weak, very weak, It cannot even stand up without a cup or a glass to hold it. It cannot climb a hill one inch high without something to draw it up. If you spill it upon the ground, it is lost in a moment and cannot be gathered up again. Have you not heard someone say, “I feel as weak as water?”

But there is one thing that water can do very powerfully. It can go down! See how swiftly it goes down over Niagara Falls. See the huge tons of rock that it has hurled down from the top. It makes a thunderous roar which can be heard miles away, and no man can stop it. Yes, reader, you are right, water is strong, very strong when it is going down. In fact most of our electric lights, street cars, and huge powerful motors are run by the force of falling water.

Stop and think for a minute how very easy it is for you also to go down. Every act of disobedience, temper, cheating, or lying is another step downwards in sin, and the end of that road is hell. In fact, all the sorrow, sickness and death in the world are caused by the downward force of sin, and after death comes judgment for those who die in their sins. If you wish to go upwards to God’s beautiful home of light and love, you will find yourself helpless and as weak as water.

But look again at our picture. There is water away up in the blue sky – soft white clouds, far above the earth. If wat falls so powerfully, what makes it go up? There is another and a stronger power, the heat of the sun, which, silently and unseen by anyone, draws up water from the rushing river into the sky. Do you love to watch those beautiful clouds, all red and gold from this earth, where the rest of the water left here by the sun goes steadily down.

Do you choose to stay on the steady downward road which leads to hell? Or would you like to go up, farther than the water in the clouds, up to meet the Lord Jesus and spend eternity with Him? We cannot tell you how much He longs to have you up there with Himself, but he knows that you cannot reach His wonderful Home yourself. You are able only to go down, but He has shed His precious blood that He might save lost boys and girls like you. If you believe His Word, then you may be perfectly sure that you will go up to meet Him when He comes for His own,

“WE WHICH ARE ALIVE AND MAIN SHALL BE CAUGHT UP TOGETHER WITH THEM IN THE CLOUDS, TO MEET THE LORD IN THE AIR” 1 Thess. 4:17.

Messages of the Love of God 3/21/1948

Teddy's Conversion

Teddy was very fond of reading books that began with a story, but if it happened to touch upon the subject of salvation, he would quickly put it down and read no more. One day he picked up a book and looked at the title which was, “Though Your Sins be as Scarlet.” He didn’t like the title very well but he took it up and read the most interesting parts.

Teddy found that those words kept ringing in his ears, “Though your sins be as scarlet.” He knew he had committed many sins, and he knew too that they were all known to God. Night after night he went to bed, but could not sleep.

“At last the night of decision came. The clock had struck eleven; Satan whispered, “Time enough yet, wait until you are a little older.” But God said, “NOW.” He came down stairs and was met by his father and mother who had been praying for their boy.

Teddy burst into tears. “Oh father, I’m such a great sinner.”

“Jesus is a great Saviour, Teddy,” replied his father.

Together they knelt and settled the question. Teddy accepted Jesus as his Saviour, and brightly confessed Him before his parents and his friends.

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

Messages of the Love of God 3/21/1948

The Lost Gold Mine

My father lived for a time in the western part of Canada. Each day as he went to his place of business he would hear loud blasts from a mountain in the distance. He became curious and made inquiries regarding the cause of this continual blasting.

He was told that a gold mining prospector had once discovered a very rich vein and would have become a wealthy man, but overnight he had lost the mine due to an earthquake. The man was so determined to find it again that he spent many months, and possibly years, blasting and digging to try and find the lost gold mine.

Now if this man did find his gold mine again, and amassed a great fortune, when he came to die he could not take a cent with him. If he had neglected the salvation of his precious, never-dying soul, he would have been most miserable.

“For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?” Mark 8:36, 37.

When we know the Lord Jesus as our own Saviour, the gold and silver of this world are poor in comparison with the “unsearchable riches” found in Christ. How wonderful to know “the love of Christ which passeth knowledge!” Sometimes we sing,

“Oh yes! Oh yes! there’s something more,
Something more than gold.

To know your sins are all forgiven, That’s something more than gold.” Do you know your sins are all forgiven? If not, will you take the blessed Lord Jesus now and know the peace of having your sins washed away in His precious blood.

Messages of the Love of God 3/21/1948

I Wonder When 'Forever" Will Begin

Amy Beaton had just been in my Sunday school class four Sundays. She was always on time, always had her little Bible, and always knew her Scripture verse. On the fifth Sunday no Amy came, and I found myself looking at the door hoping she might come late.

On Monday afternoon I started out to find the little absent child, but when I came to her street I found that I couldn’t remember the number of her house, so I walked up and down, hoping to see her happy little face. At last I went home, hoping that I might see her the coming Sunday. But she did not come, and my lesson went on a little more sadly than usual. What do you think made me feel so sad? I did not know if Amy loved Jesus, and was beginning to fear that I might never see her again. On Monday again I went to her street, and this time, after asking a few questions, I found the house and was soon talking with Amy’s mother, When I explained who I was she said: “I am so glad you have come; my child has kept asking for you, but I didn’t know where you lived. She is our only child and the Doctor doesn’t know if she will live,”

Then I stepped into the room where little Amy was lying and was surprised to see such a change in just two weeks. “Amy,” I said, “God has given you a kind mother and a good doctor. They are doing all they can to make you better, but if it is God’s will that you should die soon, what then?” Will the reader ask himself this question? Your time may come sooner than you think.

Amy raised herself on her elbow, her face beaming with joy. “I am not afraid to die; I love Jesus. I wonder when ‘forever’ will begin.” Then she fell back exhausted. In a few minutes she spoke again. “I love Daddy and Mother dearly, but I love the Lord Jesus, so much more; I should like to go and be with Jesus; I should only be there a little while first; they love Jesus and would soon come too.”

Little Amy was just seven years old, but she was quite sure and happy at the thought of dying. Why? Because she knew the Lord Jesus as the One Who had loved her and died for her on Calvary’s cross.

Amy did not die. After a long illness she became quite well, and she lived many years to enjoy the love of Jesus.

Messages of the Love of God 3/21/1948

Bible Talks

Genesis 27:1-27.

ISAAC’S spiritual, as well as his physical sight became dim in his old age, for we will always find that if there is any unjudged sin in our lives when we are young, it will become more apparent as we grow Older. Isaac had loved venison, and Esau because of his venison, for many a long year, but now this fleshly desire almost caused him to make a great mistake. In fact he would have missed the mind of God entirely if God had not come in and prevented it. The way in which God came in was surely very humbling to Isaac, but reminds us once again of the faithfulness and grace of God in, spite of all our failures.

Isaac asked Esau to make him savoury meat, and said that he would then bless him before he died. He seemed to forget how God had ordained that the blessing was to rest on, Jacob his younger son, and not on Esau. (see chap. 25:23.) Jacob as usual began to plan and scheme, and this time his mother helped him in it. God would have seen to it that Jacob received the promised blessing in His own time and it was not necessary for Jacob to deceive his poor old father to get it. There was nothing of faith in such an act, and we need hardly say that both Rebekah and Jacob had to reap bitterly for it. God overruled their plan however, even though He did not, and could not, approve of it. In fact this is the whole message of the Bible from cover to cover. It is where sin abounded, that grace did much more abound, (Romans 5:20). Man’s record has always been one of sin—yes sin abounding, while God’s record has always been one of grace over-abounding all man’s sin. Surely no one but God could write such a Book as the Bible, telling of His own divine love rising to its highest peak at the cross of Calvary even when the heart of man came out at its worst. Yes, when man did his worst, then God did His best!

Jacob should not have told a lie even though his mother told him to do it. In this instance he should have obeyed God first, for His Word says, “Lying lips are abomination to the Lord.” Proverbs 12:22. She told him to get a kid of the goats and she would make the savoury meat which his father wanted. Then she put skins on Jacob’s hands and neck so that he would feel like his hairy brother Esau, and clothing him in Esau’s hunting suit, she sent him in to his father to get the blessing. How one lie leads to another, and one deception to another! How much better to walk in “the paths of uprightness” and leave all the results with God, but Jacob told one lie after another and strangely enough he seemed to get what he wanted. But he only seemed to, for he reaped the results of this all his life. He was deceived by his uncle Laban many times—not just once—and then when he was old his own sons deceived and lied to him. True he got the blessing, but he would have got it without all this sorrow if he had waited God’s time.

These things may well be a lesson to us, for we are much like Jacob at times, We have plans of our own, and although we may not go as far as he did in deception, we sometimes try to get the blessing in a path of disobedience. Remember dear young reader, that the path of obedience is the path of happiness. God often tests His children’s faith, but He will always prove Himself worthy of all our trust.

Messages of the Love of God 3/21/1948

The Painted Horse

WHY can't the little horse run? He is a very fine horse, with a handsome mane and tail, good shoes, a fine set of harness, and a very bright look in his eye. He has a dear little rider on his back, and a lively young driver holding the reins, but for all that he cannot run. Why is it?

After all he may be a very fine horse indeed, but he has no life. You are not like the painted horse, are you? You are breathing all the time, even when you are asleep. The Bible says, "God . . breathed into his [man's] nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul." Genesis 2:7. When you were born, God gave you the breath of life, and your life is in His hand so that He can take it away when He pleases. Be sure that you are not like the man to whom God had to say, "The God in whose hand thy breath is . . . hast thou not glorified." Daniel 5:23.

Of course Mother loves her two little girls very much. You can tell by their happy faces, tidy hair, and pretty little dresses, that their mother cares for them in a hundred loving ways, and they love her in return. But the painted horse does not love Mother. Somebody spent hours shaping and painting and harnessing him just like that, but the painted horse does not love anybody at all!

Do you love the God who made you, and who cares for you in a hundred loving ways? He wants your love in return. He longs for you so much that He gave His only Son to die, so that you might be one of His children forever. Open your heart to Him today, learn more of Him, and you cannot help loving Him in return.

The painted horse has no heart at all, and so he is not to blame. But you have a warm little heart that God has given you, and if you turn away from Him, and try to fill your heart with the things of this world, you surely are to blame. Our hearts are sinful in the sight of God, and He has not only asked us, but He has commanded us to turn to Him in repentance. (Acts 17:30).

Do you love Him? Is the name of Jesus the dearest Name in your heart?

If you are saved we know it is, for

"THERE IS NONE OTHER NAME UNDER HEAVEN GIVEN AMONG MEN, WHEREBY WE MUST BE SAVED." Acts 4:12.

Messages of the Love of God 3/28/1948

Eternity

A YOUNG man, just 17 years old, was suddenly, and without warning, ushered into eternity. He was buried, and a stone was set up over his grave. Perhaps you have looked at these grave-stones, and have wondered what would be put on your grave. Let me tell you the writing on the stone put over this young man's grave.

"READER, ONE MOMENT
STOP AND THINK
THAT I AM IN ETERNITY
AND YOU ARE ON THE BRINK."

Yes, reader, these words, as I saw them one day in the cemetery, made me think very seriously. You, dear reader, are not yet in eternity, but you are on the brink!

"Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation." 2 Corinthians 6:2.

Messages of the Love of God 3/28/1948

The Power Of The Word Of God

PETER WESTON didn't have quite enough money to buy his train ticket home. He was studying at the University and had been called home unexpectedly. He looked over his few belongings, and decided to take his Hebrew Bible to a Jewish friend of his and ask for a loan of money in exchange. The Jew didn't think much of the book but agreed to loan him the needed money.

During Peter's absence the Jew decided to read the Testament through. He had always hated the Lord Jesus, and thought this would be a good chance to read about Him and so to strengthen his hatred. He hid the book from his family and started reading diligently. When he had gone through the book, he was greatly upset and at times was ready to cry "Oh that this Man were my Saviour!" Still, his hatred had been so deep that he put the book away and decided never to look at it again. For several days he tried to forget it, but he could not, and soon found himself reading it more eagerly and carefully than ever. A third time he read the wondrous Testament through, and this time, melted to tears, he bowed and accepted the Lord Jesus as his Saviour. He bought the beloved Testament from his friend, Peter, and has ever since read its pages with an increasing love.

"Search the Scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of Me." John 5:39.

Messages of the Love of God 3/28/1948

Whatsoever Things Are True

WHATSOEVER things are true . . . think on these things." Phil. 4:8. What we think about has a far greater bearing on our lives them we are apt to think, and we may well ponder the Scripture which says, "As he thinketh in his heart, so is he." Prov. 23:7.

Now God, who knows oil the tendencies of our minds even as Christians, has given us in the verse quoted at the beginning of our little talk, the things we should think about. Today we are gong to talk about the first one only—the true things—although there are seven other things mentioned in the verse. We should not just allow our minds to run in any and every direction, for we have a great enemy who is much cleverer than we, and he is well able to deceive us if we get out of the path of simple obedience to God's Word. God has told us that this great enemy (Satan) "is a liar, and the father of it." John 8:44. Having had almost six thousand years experience since he first deceived our foreparents, Adam and Eve, he is a master at the art. We too, are all young people, with (no doubt) an all-too-good opinion of ourselves and our own ability, and ready to jump at Satan's glittering bait like the poor fish, only to get the hook. But do we have to make these terrible mistakes? Do we have to find these things out by bitter experience, or is there a sure way of escape—a sure source of information telling us the safe channel? Yes, there is.

God has left a Charter for us to guide our footsteps through this tangled scene, and what is better still, He has not only told us the way wherein we should walk, but has actually given

us the strength to do it. The ten commandments given of God to Israel, only showed how helpless they were, buf now since the work of Christ on Calvary, God has fully revealed Himself. "Thy Word is truth" John 17:17, is the whole Charter, and therefore when we are told to think on the true things, it clearly refers to His Word. This would deliver us from novels, and other things which we know to be untrue. It is strange how quickly people will believe and talk about things which are not true, and yet display very little interest in the truth of God.

We remarked too that God has given us the strength needed for our pathway. Yes, the believer is indwelt by the Spirit of God, and this is the power for his walk according to the mind of God. The knowledge of this laid hold of the Apostle's soul, so that he could say, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Phil. 4:13. Paul felt his own weakness, but leaned on His mighty arm. May we each do this day by day too!

The Lord may not always lead us in a smooth way, but it will always be the "right way." Like His people Israel of old, "He led them forth by the right way, that they might go to a city of habitation." Psalms 107:7. That "right way" was through the wildeness, but it ended in Canaan. There are many other attractive looking bypaths which may seem easier, but the end is destruction, and how many have wrecked their frail barks on them. The end of the path of obedience is blessing here, and eternal joy above. May the Lord help you and I to think on these "true things" to His own glory, and deliver us from the by-paths which seem right to us when walking in our own wisdom.

Messages of the Love of God 3/28/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 27:28-46.

WE should notice here that the blessing Jacob received from his father was an earthly blessing, and tells us of what is in store for the nation of Israel in a coming day. This promise and many others will have a full fulfilment when the Lord Jesus Christ reigns in power over the earth in a coming day. Jerusalem will then be the center of earthly glory and blessing. Moreover it is true even now that God blesses the nations which befriend the Jews, and curses those who persecute them. We might mention however, that the blessings of those who are saved during this present period of grace which began at the day of Pentecost, and which will end when the Lord Jesus calls His own to meet Him in the air, are heavenly blessings. We should not expect "the fatness of the earth." God has only promised us food and raiment (1 Tim. 6:8), although He often exceeds His promises, blessing us even in temporal things far beyond this.

After Jacob had received the blessing of the firstborn then Esau carne in from hunting, made his savoury meat, and brought it to Isaac his father. Poor Isaac! no wonder he "trembled very exceedingly," but God in His goodness seemed to reveal to him that He had overruled his failure, and he said to Esau, "I have eaten of all before thou camest, and have blessed him [Jacob] yea, and he shall be blessed."

Esau then broke down and cried. Some years before he had sold his birthright, and now it was too late to get it back. What a day of weeping it will be for those who have sold their birthright and rejected Christ, when they find the door of mercy shut, and shut forever. Here Esau received a measure of blessing, but if you, are unsaved dear reader, there will be no blessing for you—never, never, never. Oh, do come to Christ today.

Esau's descendants are the Arabs of today, and Isaac's prophecy is now being fulfilled, "By thy sword shalt thou live . . . and it shall come to pass when thou shalt have the dominion, that thou shalt break his yoke from off thy neck." The Jews are the descendants of Jacob, and they are suffering at the hands of the Arabs today, but things will change before long, for the Lord's coming is near, and after that He will take up His people (the Jews) again and Jacob shall rule. Nothing can hinder the fulfilment of God's Word, dear children. Men may say that the Bible is outdated and untrue, but let us assure you that it will be fulfilled to the very letter when all the books written by men have been burned up. "Heaven and earth shall pass away, but My Words shall not pass away." Matt. 24:35.

Bitter hatred and murder filled Esau's heart, and he said he would kill Jacob as soon as his father had died. Rebekah who had had her part in deceiving Isaac then told Jacob to go down to Laban his uncle and remain there until Esau's anger had passed over. God was over these circumstances, and Rebekah had to reap what she had sown with sorrow, for Jacob did not return home again until after her death, and so she never saw him again. She told him to stay for only a few days, but he did not return for twenty long years.

Messages of the Love of God 3/28/1948

Bible Questions for April

The Children’s Class

The Answers are to be found in Proverbs chapters 24-31.

Write in full the verse in which you find the words:

1. “Shall suddenly be destroyed”

2. “He is a shield unto them”

3. “Whoso confesseth and forsaketh them”

4. “Say not, I will do so to him”

5. “Give him bread to eat”

6. “The heart of man to man “

7. “Thou knowest not what a day “

“The Young People’s Class”

The Answers are to be found in Proverbs chapters 24-31,

1. Which is the better, beauty or the fear of the Lord?

2. What does God say of one who is hasty in his words?

3. Is a foolish thought sin?

4. What happens where there is no talebearer?

5. Does God speak well of one who “utters all his mind?’

6.What does God say of the one who trusts in his own heart?

7. Whose prayer is an abomination?

Messages of the Love of God 4/4/1948

Enough For All

These’ hungry puppies and kittens have found just what they wanted—a good supper of fresh milk. We can almost hear the lapping of six little tongues, which will scarcely stop a minute until the plate is empty. Then they will lick their lips over and over, and the kittens will wash their faces with their little front paws, until there is not a drop of milk left, even on their whiskers.

Did you ever feel so hungry, and and dinner tasted so good, that you just hated to come to the end of it? But somehow, you always do come to the end, so that you really cannot eat any more until next time.

The Jews, long ago, used to have a great feast which lasted for eight days. You would think that, on the eighth day, everyone would surely be satisfied, but the Lord Jesus knew well that nothing on earth can satisfy your heart and mine. “In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink.” John 7:37. You see, He knew that all the joys of earth come to an end, and only He Himself can satisfy a thirsting heart.

This was a wonderful invitation from the Son of God, to all who will come to Him; but instead of being pleased, some of the Jews were angry and planned to kill Him. Only a few came to Him, but those who came, found that His promise was true, and that He can satisfy our hearts, both on earth and in Heaven.

His invitation is for you too, boys and girls. He knows that there are many things here to make you happy. Indeed, He has given many of you a hundred things for which you can thank Him every day, but He wants you to remember that some day every one of these things will be gone, like the milk in the plate in our picture. He wants to make you His very own. He wants to save you and satisfy you, now and always.

If you are not saved, will you not come to Him and ask Him to make you His very own? And if you are saved already, then read His Word and learn more of Him every day and you will find that His promise is true.

“HE THAT COMETH TO ME SHALL NEVER HUNGER; AND HE THAT BELIEVETH ON ME SHALL NEVER THIRST.” John 6:35.

Messages of the Love of God 4/4/1948

The Death-grip

JUST a word with you, reader, ARE YOU SAVED? You hope so? You intend to be some day? You are trying to do your best?

Do not go on any longer without settling this important matter. If you are depending on anything or anyone but Christ alone for your salvation you are lost, and the sooner you face this terrible fact the better. Let us tell you a story as related by a sea-captain.

“A few years ago I was sailing by the island of Cuba when a cry rang through the ship ‘Man overboard.’ Instantly I seized a rope and threw it over the stern of the ship, crying out to the drowning man to lay hold.

“THE SAILOR GRASPED THE ROPE AS IT FELL. When at last we had him back on deck it actually took hours before his hold could be relaxed, and his hands separated from that rope. In fact when we finally freed him, we found the fibres of that life-rope imbedded in the flesh of his hands.”

Had you been in the position of that drowning sailor what would you have done? How long would you have waited before you grasped that rope?

Reader, you are slipping moment by moment nearer eternity, The Lord Jesus Christ reaches out, not to help you, but to save you. The sailor had to reach out and hold on himself, but the wonder of the gospel is that the Lord Jesus is both reaching out, and will hold on io, you if you are just willing to Jet Him. Can you look: at those outstretched hands and turn away? You will sink down to hell if you reject the Saviour, but you will spend eternity with Him in His home above, if you accept Him.

“I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand.” John 10:28.

Messages of the Love of God 4/4/1948

What Is Stronger Than A Lion?

A POOR woman in Africa was walking in the country with her two little boys, when a lion came out of the bush and walked slowly towards them.

It was a terrible moment for her heart, for they had no protection, and were at some distance from their village. But a mother’s love was quick to plan a way of escape for the children from the paws of the angry lion.

She put the little boys behind her, and told them to run away home as fast as they could; and then, facing the lion she began to shout and wave her arms and call the lion all kinds of names.

Perhaps you think this was a strange thing to do, but I think it was very brave. The lion stopped and stood looking at the woman as if wondering what all the noise was for. In a few moments the lion turned around, bounded back into the bush and soon disappeared.

The thankful mother, who had risked her own life for the sake of her children, now hurried after them, and in a short time they all reached the village in safety.

The love of the Lord Jesus was much greater than this, for He gave up His life for us when we were His enemies.

“For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.” Romans 5:6.

Messages of the Love of God 4/4/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 28:1-12.

THE life of Jacob is one of the most interesting records of the grace of God to be found in the Bible. God has been pleased to tell us a great deal about poor Jacob, and more than that God calls Himself the God of Jacob more often. than the God of either Abraham or Isaac. Every time we read about God being the God of Jacob, it tells us of His grace that blesses in spite of all our failure.

Isaac told Jacob not ,to take a wife of the daughters of the land, but to choose one of his own kindred—that is of the family of faith. No doubt your father and mother have been telling you that you should not take a life partner from the unsaved people around, whom you meet day by day. Perhaps you are inclined to think that such a path is difficult and that there are few to choose from. Jacob found this too, and he had to go a long way to get his wife and things were anything but easy. The path of faith is not easy. It is a rough path, but there is always blessing at the end. Jacob obeyed his father and mother in this matter. Are you going to do the same dear young Christian?

Esau on the other hand was very wilful in his disobedience, and refused to hearken to the voice of his parents. Even though he knew that they did not want him to choose a wife of the daughters of the land, he went out and married one of them. He would have liked to receive the blessing from his father, but he surely did not honor his parents as God says we should.

Jacob was a man of faith but he had a great deal to learn in the school of God. Perhaps some of our readers are wondering what the school of God is for you did not know He had one, Yes, God has a school, and the moment we are saved we enter it. He has many things to teach us, and being very patient He will never expel us from His school; nor can we ever graduate as long as we are in this world, for there are many things to learn and it takes a lifetime to learn them.

Jacob started, out from Beersheba and went toward Haran, and while he was travelling along the sun set and the darkness overtook him. How many a young Christian who goes on well for a time, comes to a place like Jacob where the sun sets and he lays down to sleep. Jacob had stones for his pillow! Such is the path of one who is going on with unconfessed sin in his life as Jacob was. There is no comfort in such a course for the pillows are made of stones!

God sometimes speaks in dreams, though we have to test even our dreams by the word of God. Here God spoke to Jacob through a dream and what wonderful promises He made to him. When we are getting away from the Lord how often He sends us some fresh reminder of His love and grace in order to recall our wandering hearts and feet. The ladder stretched up to heaven which Jacob saw with angels of God ascending and descending upon it, points on to the time when Christ will reign in power. Then the heavenly Jerusalem will be over the earthly Jerusalem, and the redeemed in heaven will reign with Christ carrying out His righteous government in the earth instead of the angels who are now God’s “ministering spirits.” (see Heb. 1:14, 2:5-7, I Cor. 6:2, 3.)

Messages of the Love of God 4/4/1948

Arthur's Pup

PUP is a full-grown collie dog, almost as old as his little master. He should surely have a better name than “Pup”, but Arthur named him long ago when he was really just a little fellow, and the old name still sticks to him.

Pup learned a very sad lesson about cars, before he had stayed at Arthur’s home very long. When he was scarcely old enough to know better, he was hit by a car, which injured his hind leg so badly that he howled with pain. He now remembers to be more careful of moving cars, but the broken leg has never become quite well again.

Now what can a frisky young dog do with one useless leg? When Arthur calls him, what do you suppose he does? He comes on three legs, wagging his furry tail and almost forgetting his trouble. Many a time, with his three good legs, he has gone for the cows on Arthur’s farm, or scampered about to welcome him home from school.

Have you ever seen a dog hobbling along like that? Every time I see it, I think of a wise old friend of mine, whose mind and heart were stored with Scripture verses. He looked with his kindly smile and said, “The lame dog reminds me of the Scripture, ‘Bear ye one another’s burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.’ See how the three legs are bearing the burden of the fourth.”

You see, boys and girls, we can learn a lesson from Arthur’s lame dog. Do you know some boy or girl who is in trouble, at home, at school, or at play? Perhaps you have a grown up friend who has a very sad and heavy heart. The Word of God says, “Bear ye one another’s burdens,” then perhaps there is something, you can do to make your friend more happy. If you ask the Lord Jesus how to bear the burdens of those in trouble, He will show you from His Word many things that a little child can do, and so you will fulfil the law of Christ.

You also may have a burden too heavy to carry, little reader, but remember that Christ Himself is ready to save you, ready to wash away your sins in His precious blood, and then to help you every day of your life until you see His face in Heaven. If we know Him as that One who died for us, then let us learn to please Him by helping others who are in trouble.

“BEAR YE ONE ANOTHER’S BURDENS, AND SO FULFIL THE LAW OF CHRIST.” Galatians 6:2.

Messages of the Love of God 4/11/1948

Please Read This Book

IF you are saved, no doubt you like to tell others about the love of Christ. We would like to tell you today about a young man who used to visit the Grace Dart Hospital in Montreal from week to week in order to speak words of comfort, as well as words of warning to those who were confined there. His earnest desire was that they might learn to know the Lord Jesus Christ as, their Saviour, and trust in His finished work.

Stopping one day at the bedside of one of the patients he found him quite friendly and ready to talk. There were so many around who, sad to say, had little concern about eternal things, and did not want to listen to the Words-of life, that it was a cheer to find one who was willing to talk of these things. The young man, though suffering with T. B. gladly told his own story in the following words.

“A few weeks ago I had a very bad hemorrhage, and believed my time was up. I thought I was going to die. A young lady, passing my bed on the way out of the hospital, stopped for a moment, and said ‘How are you?’ I replied, ‘I almost passed out last week.’ Where would you have gone if you had,’ she said. I replied ‘To hell’ so she handed me a copy of the New Testament and said, ‘The visiting hours are up, but please read this book.’ I did read it, and I found out two things: first, I was a sinner and second, Christ is a Saviour.”

This dear man was rejoicing in the Lord Jesus. He wrote several letters in which he told of the Lord’s grace and goodness, and he longed to get better so that he might testify for Him. In one of his letters he wrote about the three crosses, and it was very plain that he knew the saving power of Christ.

His condition became gradually worse, and now he has gone—gone to be with the One who saved him, and filled his last months on earth with such joy—joy which only Christ Himself can give. Some day these two young men, and the young lady who gave the Testament too, shall meet together in His presence, and trace back over the days spent here. Each will be able to tell of how they were brought to know the Lord Jesus as their own personal Saviour.

Dear children, where are you going when you die? Or if the Lord should come before you die, will you go to meet Him in the air? Trust Him as your Saviour NOW, and know on the authority of God’s own precious Word that “Whosoever believeth in Him should not p.erish, but HAVE everlasting life.” John 3:15.

Messages of the Love of God 4/11/1948

Three Times Saved

Mother’s little boy was dying. Two little ones had already been taken; must this one also leave her? The fond mother knelt by her child, and humbly besought the Lord to spare him, if it were His will. And the Lord heard, to the surprise of everyone. The little fellow was soon well and strong.

But new dangers awaited the mother and her little son. Their home was far away in India, and just about this time, the terrible Indian mutiny broke out, in which the Sepoys, or natives, murdered every white man, woman or child they could find, in the most cruel manner.

One night their faithful Hindoo servant cried, “Wake up, wake up, the Sepoys are upon us. In great terror, the mother picked up her little boy and rushed out to follow the servant, she knew not where. Looking back a few moments later, she saw her little home in flames.

Stop a moment reader. We would cry to you, “Awake, judgment is about to fall, you have not a moment to lose. Flee for refuge to Jesus now, or it will be too late.”

The maddened natives, finding that the white people had escaped, soon raced after them. The poor mother, carefully carrying her little boy, could hear their shrieks behind her. But the Hindoo servant had a plan. They carne to an old deserted shack, with no door, no windows and no roof. Bet they jumped inside for safety, The place was half full of hay, and in this they hid, scarcely daring to breathe. But God was their defense. He heard the silent prayer of that dear Christian mother, and the natives, seeing the old shack, with no door or roof, thought that nobody would try to use that as a hiding place, and they rushed on past. They were safe.

Time passed on and now the lad is eighteen, and again he finds himself in danger. Not from illness, or from cruel men this time. No, he is strong and healthy, and at home in peace. Where then is the danger? He was in the same danger in which you now are, if unsaved as you read this paper! In danger of going into a lost eternity. The young man knew it, and was so alarmed, that he got down on his knees and owned his sin and his need, and accepted the Lord Jesus as his Saviour. The next day when he returned to his office, he looked so happy that his companions asked the reason. Was he ashamed to tell them? No, he said right out, “I know that I am saved and that my sins are all washed away in the blood of the Lord Jesus Christ.”

Later on he went back to India as a missionary, and spent his life telling the Hindoos that “The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7.

Messages of the Love of God 4/11/1948

Happy

Happy is the boy who believes in Him,

Happy is the boy who is cleansed from sin.

Never to a boy did the Lord say “No”,

Let us every one to the Saviour go.

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

Messages of the Love of God 4/11/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 28:13-22 & 29:1-26

WHILE Jacob was dreaming he saw the Lord standing at the top of the ladder, and He said to him “I am the Lord God of Abraham thy father, and the God of Isaac.” He then promised to bless Jacob adding that “in thy Seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed.” The promised Seed was Christ who will bring blessing to all nations. God said also that He would not leave Jacob until all His promises were fulfilled. The descendants of Jacob (the Jews) are suffering today, but God has not forgotten these oft-repeated promises and will fulfill them in His own time which is now drawing near.

When Jacob awakened from his sleep he was afraid. His unconfessed sin made him fear the presence of God and call it a dreadful place. Then he took the stones and made a pillar, over the top of which he poured oil saying that that was to be God’s house. He owned in this way that worship was due to the Lord, but his faith was weak and he began to bargain with God. He said, “If God will be with me, and will keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat, and raiment to put on, so that I come again to my father’s house in peace; then shall the Lord be my God.” Jacob said that he would do certain things for God if God would do certain things for him. God had already promised to do these very things for Jacob, not because Jacob deserved them, but because of His own sovereign grace. He had said, “I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whither thou goest, and will bring thee again to this land,” but Jacob adds his “IF” to it all. When God speaks we never need to add our “if” to His Word, but Jacob was still a schemer. He had bargained with Esau for his birthright, deceived his father to get the blessing, and he even tried to bargain with God.

Jacob then said that he would give God a tenth, but we should give Him more than that, for we are only stewards of ALL the Lord has given us. Nor should we give to Him on certain conditions which we choose to make ourselves. We owe all to Him because of His sovereign grace to us when we deserved nothing but judgment.

At last Jacob arrived at Haran where his uncle Laban lived. He stood by a well of water where the shepherds watered their flocks, and made enquiries as to where he could find Laban. While he was speaking Rachel his daughter came to the well with her father’s sheep. The women however were in the habit of waiting until the rest of the shepherds gathered together and then they watered their sheep, because they were unable to roll away the stone themselves. Jacob therefore rolled back the stone, watered the sheep, and introduced himself to Rachel as her father’s sister’s son. He was then welcomed to Laban’s house, and after being there for a month Laban offered to give him wages if he would work for him. Jacob said he would work seven years for him if he could have Rachel for his wife, so this was agreed upon. However Jacob’s reaping time must come, and he was deceived by his uncle, just as he had deceived his own father Isaac. After serving the seven years for Rachel, Laban gave him Leah. Let us remind ourselves once again, dear children, that God’s Word is still true, “Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” Gal. 6:7.

Messages of the Love of God 4/11/1948

The Heavy Load

HERE is a man who is called a porter, because he earns his living by carrying heavy loads for other people. See the heavy strap around his head and the deep wrinkles in his face. How would you like a job like his?

Perhaps he likes to boast that he can carry a bigger load than anyone else who works with him, for not many people could move a step with a load like that! But can you guess what part of his job he likes best? He likes to lay down the load at the end of his journey, and stand up straight and free without it. Then he is ready to go home with no load at all.

You have a heavy load to carry too, boys and girls, and the hardest part is that you cannot lay it down, and stand up straight and free without it. It is a load of sins, which grows heavier every day. You cannot undo the cords and shake it off, and you do not even lay it aside when you go to bed.

If you count the suitcases in our porter’s burden you will find that there are sixteen. But did you ever stop to count the number of your sins? Of course you cannot count them all, but suppose that you have sinned just once a day—then, if you are ten years old, you already have a load of three thousand six hundred and fifty sins! Isn’t that dreadful? Remember too that you cannot ‘lay aside your load of sins even at night, but they are with you everywhere you go. Surely you are more heavily laden than the porter in our picture.

Would you like to be free from your load of sins? Would you like to have rest? We rejoice to tell you that you do not need to bear that weary load one moment longer. The Lord Jesus hates our sins with a perfect hatred, but He took our load at Calvary’s cross, and for three dark hours. He bore all the punishment that our sins deserved. Now, we who trust in Him, know that our load is gone and we have rest. He still invites you in His precious Word: “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matt. 11:28.

If you will not come to Him, then at your journey’s end when you must leave this world, you will find that your load of sins will go with you into hell, and then no one will be able to loose the cords and set you free,

“HIS OWN INIQUITIES SHALL TALE THE WICKED HIMSELF, AND HE S7TALL RE HOLDEN WITH HE CORDS OF HIS SINS.” Proverbs 522.

Messages of the Love of God 4/18/1948

Lessons From a Mouse Trap

PERHAPS all our little readers have heard father say, “There are mice in this house, and I must get a trap and catch them.”

If so, you will not be surprised if I tell you that some of these little animals have found their way to us, and that we too, have bought a trap to catch them. This trap is quite a clever one, and doesn’t look like a trap at all. It looks more like a little house, with a front door that is always open —except when a mouse gets caught!

But I haven’t yet told you what tempts the little mouse to go inside. The instructions that came with the trap say to put a piece of cheese inside and a little path of flour leading up to the door. Is it any wonder the hungry mouse hurries in to get the cheese? BUT, as soon as he touches the cheese, the front door swings closed and the mouse is caught and can’t get out.

Our mouse trap often makes me think of something far more serious than catching mice. Satan is trying to catch boys and girls and lead them on to be lost in hell for ever. He doesn’t use flour and cheese, but he does use sinful things which he knows we like and we soon forget that we are on the broad road that leads to destruction.

Dear young reader, do take care! Where are you going? When the door of eternity opens to receive you and closes behind you, will you be in Heaven or Hell?

“How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation.” Hebrews 2:3.

Messages of the Love of God 4/18/1948

Can It Be Rubbed Out?

WHEN I was young I was far away from the Lord Jesus. It seemed as if the prayers of my godly mother were not going to be answered.

I believed that the Lord Jesus was just a good man; and I did not believe in heaven or hell. In spite of this, when I married and became a father, I allowed my children to be taught the Bible.

One evening my wife told me that our little Charles had been very naughty during the day. I scolded him and sent him to bed as punishment.

Sometime after he had been put to bed, I heard him crying, and going to his room, I asked, “What makes my little boy cry?” He would not answer me at first, but at last he said,

“Oh, Daddy, the angels.”

Surprised at his reply, I said to him, “Well, Charles what about the angels?”

“They have written the naughty things I did today in God’s book,” he answered through his sobs.

“No doubt,” I said, “God has written down that you disobeyed your mother.”

“Daddy, Daddy, is there no way of rubbing it out?” asked the little fellow.

Very sorry to see him so unhappy I said to him, “Yes, my child, the story of your naughtiness can be rubbed out, but it is necessary to ask the good God to forgive you.”

Charles stopped crying. “I will ask Him,” he said, “but should I not kneel down to pray to God?” He got quickly out of bed and knelt down; then after thinking a moment, he added, “Daddy, if you knelt down with me perhaps God would listen better.”

I had not knelt in prayer since I was a little child, and I would not have let my friends see me for the world, and yet how could I refuse my dear little boy, so I knelt down beside him.

“Oh, Daddy,” he then said, “pray instead of me, for you know so much better than I do what to say to God.”

What was I to do? I cannot tell you how I felt as I tried to express the confession of my little son, When I had finished, and we had both said, “Amen,” and risen from our knees,

Charles looked at me very gently, saying, “Are you quite sure that the story of my naughtiness is all rubbed out from God’s book?”

“Yes,” I replied, wishing to comfort him, “it is all gone.”

But he was not satisfied yet. “What was it washed away with?” he asked, “Would a sponge be used?”

“No, with the blood of our Saviour,” for the old story my mother had so often told me came back to me.

Little Charles was silent for a long time; at last, looking at me with eyes full of tears he asked gravely,

“Has God written anything down in His book about you, Daddy?”

“Yes, I’m afraid so,” I answered. “And Mother, did she ever do anything wrong?”

“I expect so.”

He had still another question: “All that you have done is washed away, is it not?”

I could not answer this: the question made me tremble. I felt as if I were no longer in the company of my little child, but in the presence of a Judge with eyes like a flame of fire. I tried to murmur, “I hope so,” but at that moment I heard a sob behind me.

My wife had followed me into the room, and heard all that had passed. Together we knelt down; father, mother and child, and prayed to the God of all mercy, who pardons fully and freely, and yet whom, we had so long forgotten. We owned our sin and our need, and He heard and answered, not only our prayers, but also the many prayers of my dear mother.

“I have blotted out, as a thick cloud, thy transgressions, and, as a cloud, thy sins.” Isaiah 44:22.

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

Messages of the Love of God 4/18/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 29:27-35 & 30, 31:1-12.

LABAN told Jacob that if he would serve him another seven years he could have Rachel for his wife. God does not approve of a man having more than one wife, but in the old testament, before God had given a full revelation of Himself He allowed it, though He never approved of it. This He showed in the beginning when He made one wife for Adam, saying at that time that a man was to “leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife.” Gen. 2:24. God always shows His purposes in the beginning of a thing when He sets it up, then bearing in patience with the failure when things fall into decline. Everything that has been committed to man in responsibility has ended in failure and ruin, but this only tends to magnify the grace of God.

God was good to Leah in spite of the fact that Jacob did not love her as he ought, and He gave her many sons.

Jacob went on with his scheming, and being the head of his home his whole household took on the same character. How careful this should make us as parents, for our children will copy our actions much more than we are inclined to think. Jacob’s way of doing things could never have God’s approval, but God overruled and accomplished His own purposes in spite of Jacob’s failure. Then too, it shows us that in the coming day when the twelve tribes will be brought into blessing on the earth, it will be all of grace.

Not one of us who are reading this little paper will get to heaven because of any good in ourselves. We will be praising and thanking God through all eternity that it was only His grace and goodness that brought us there at all, for we deserved nothing but judgment.

Laban had to admit that God had blessed him for Jacob’s sake. Even though Jacob was such a failure, God proved Himself to be a God of perfect goodness and protected him. He then put the desire in Jacob’s heart to return to the land of Canaan, for that was the land of promised blessing. God used very unusual circumstances to bring Jacob back. When we are not walking quietly with God as Abraham had been, then God has to use the “bit and bridle’s Psalm 32:9, bringing unpleasant events into our lives in order to make us to go where He wants us. How much better to let Him speak to us through His Word, than to make it necessary for God to guide us like “horses and mules!”

When Laban saw that Jacob was getting together so many possessions he was not favorable toward him as before. Jacob then told his wives that the Lord had told him to return to his country, telling them too how Laban their father had deceived him and changed his wages ten times. He did not however mention how he had deceived his own father, for as yet there had not been any self judgment, nor any real sense of his guilt. He was only out to protect his own interests. It makes one think of the Scripture, “The foolishness of man perverteth his way: and his heart fretteth against the Lord.” Prov. 19:3. Dear boys and girls, how often we do things we know are wrong, and then when trouble comes we say that we do not know why the Lord is allowing it. If we want God to bless us we must walk in obedience to His Word.

Messages of the Love of God 4/18/1948

Sailboats

FOUR pretty sailboats, all speeding along before the wind! It is fun to skim across the lake like this, with a stiff breeze behind you, and a white sail slanting above your head. But what will happen when the sailboats reach the other shore?

Will the wind turn around and blow them back again? That is certainly not likely. Then what will keep them from crashing into the rocky shore?

One day, Mary was riding in a boat just like the ones in our picture, and she began to wonder about that same question. There were rocks and trees in sight, and their little sailboat was flying towards them on the wings of the wind. She was not much afraid, however, for there was a very skilful sailor in the boat, who held the ropes in his hands. Suddenly, he gave a warning word, and the big white sail swung over to the other side of the boat, and in a moment they were scudding across the lake towards home. Dangerous rocks were safely behind them, although the wind had not changed at all.

You know, boys and girls, you and I are travelling too, for we are older and older every day, and we cannot tell how long it will be before we reach our journey’s end. What will happen when you reach the other shore? Will you be quite helpless like a ship without a skillful hand to guide it?

Lillian is a little girl who often does wrong things and then says, “I couldn’t help it. She made me do it.” Not only little girls, but grown-ups too, often do wrong and then say, “I couldn’t help it.” If you say that, you are just like a ship blown about by the wind and you are in a very dangerous spot. You are certainly on the way to a great deal of trouble.

It is possible to sail against the wind, but there must be a strong hand on the ropes. And it is possible to do right no matter who tries to lead you into wrong, but you must have a power stronger than your own. As Mary stepped safely on the shore that day, she was thinking of the Strong One who alone can guide us safely away from all the rocks and evils of this life. It does not matter which way the wind blows if you have a skilful sailor. And it does not matter what other people say about us or how they try to lead us astray, we are always safe if we let the Lord Jesus be our Guide. His blessed hands are marked with nail-prints because He died for us, and He is able to keep us.

If you go your own way, you will surely end in ruin and death and hell, for the strongest and wisest man in the world cannot bring himself safely to heaven. But if you will allow the blessed Lord Jesus to save you and guide you. He will surely take you Home someday, to be with Himself.

“IN ALL THY WAYS ACKNOWLEDGE HIM, AND HE SHALL DIRECT THY PATHS.” Proverbs 3:6.

Messages of the Love of God 4/25/1948

Eleanor

LITTLE Eleanor was about eight years old. One day as she was walking home from Sunday school with a boy about her own age, he asked, “Eleanor, are you saved?”

“I don’t know,” she answered slowly.

“Why, that’s funny,” he said, “for you know God’s Word says, ‘Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.’ “

They walked on in silence, but when Eleanor reached home she went straight to her mother saying, “Mother, please come and pray with me—I want to be saved.”

“No,” answered her mother, “you just go into the bedroom by yourself, and tell the Lord Jesus what you’ve told me.”

The little girl did so, and shutting the door, her mother knelt down and prayed in another room, asking the Lord that Eleanor might truly see herself as a lost sinner and accept the Lord Jesus Christ as her Saviour.

In a short time Eleanor came out with a beaming face. “Mother, I’m saved now!” she said, and how her mother’s heart overflowed with praise to God that another of her dear children was also a child of God through faith in Jesus Christ.

And now, dear reader, if you have not already done so, why not take the Lord Jesus as your Saviour, and receive God’s gift of eternal life?

Messages of the Love of God 4/25/1948

Whatsoever Things Are Honest

WHATSOEVER things are honest . . . think on these things.” Phil. 4:8. Having considered last month the things that are true, it might be with profit to our souls to go on with the things mentioned in the remainder of the verse.

There is so much dishonesty in the world, that the one who is honest finds that he has to suffer at times. However we know that these “paths of righteousness” are pleasing to the Lord, and we are encouraged by the word which tell us “If ye suffer for righteousness’ sake, happy are ye.” 1 Peter 3:14. Our blessed Lord ever found His delight in doing the Father’s will, and suffered rather than dishonor Him. He is now our Perfect Example. May we follow His steps! (I Peter 2:21.)

There are three steps in getting away from the Lord. The first one is to lose the enjoyment of His love in our souls; the second to give up a good conscience, and the third is to start out in a course of open sin. “Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life.” Proverbs 4:23. If any of our young readers are not enjoying the love of Christ in their souls, let us warn you that you have already taken the first step in decline, and are in immediate danger. The heart must have an object, and if it is not Christ, you will soon find other things crowding in which will give you cx bad conscience. The natural tendency is then to try to put on a false front because we do not like others to know we are “slipping.” This is dishonesty in one of its forms, and when our conscience becomes seared there is no telling how far we will go. Dear young believer, be careful not to give up a good conscience, for if you do, you will be the most miserable creature on earth; unable to enjoy the world because you do not belong to it, and unhappy in the presence of Christians because of your careless walk.

It is surprising how long we can go on in this way before the third step is taken. However it usually comes at a definite time, and the “paths of uprightness” are left behind and the ways of darkness” are chosen. Oh what a sad step it is! At such a time there is no consideration for what is pleasing to the Lord, and then Satan finds a ready prey. Is there a young person like this who is reading our paper—one who is just on the verge of going right into the ways of darkness? Perhaps Satan is whispering in your ears, and saying that it is no use now, you have gone too far and the Lord can never use you again. Let us give you a word of encouragement —the Lord never changes! His love is the same as the day He saved you. Get right down before Him, and tell Him all. Be honest, and hide nothing. It is the only way to a full restoration, for “He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.” Prov. 28:13.

Let us remember then that if we think about the “honest things,” and are always careful to maintain a good conscience before God and men, we will be spared many a sorrow, as well as having the Lord’s blessing in our lives. There is no such thing as a “white lie”; they are all “black lies”, whether told at home, at school, or in business. Let us ever remember the verse in 2 Cor. 8:21. “Providing for honest things, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.”

Messages of the Love of God 4/25/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 31:13-42.

GOD called Himself “the God of Beth-el.” He brought Jacob right back to the point where he had gone to sleep, and when the sun had set upon him. If we wander away from the Lord we have to go back to the point of departure before there can be restoration. Beth-el means the house of God, and when we get away from the place where the Lord has placed His Name there is sure to be failure come in. When David had sinned he could say, “He [the Lord] restoreth my soul” Psalm 23:3, and this the Lord is willing to do for any of His erring children.

There are three things we should notice here, as they are the necessary steps to restoration. First, there must be an awakening in the conscience as to where we are, and this is the result of letting God speak to us as He did to Jacob, only that He now speaks to us through His Word.

Then, the next thing was “Get thee out of this land.” We that are children of God by faith in Christ Jesus should get out, and stay out, of anything that is not pleasing to the Lord. We have to “cease to do evil” before we can “learn to do well.” Isaiah 1:16, 17. If you, dear reader, are connected with something which you know to be displeasing to the Lord, then the word to Jacob is for you too, “Get thee out . . .”

The third step for Jacob was, “Return unto the land of thy kindred.- God was calling him to get out of Haran because He wanted to bring him to a better land—the land of Canaan, and so the reason He calls us to give up the things of this world is because we are going to a Better Land above. We who are saved are part of the family of faith, and we should choose their company (“our kindred”) even as we shall share it forever in the glory with Christ.

Rachel and Leah realized, like Jacob, that there was no part for them in Haran. They said, “Are we not counted . . as strangers?” It is a good thing when even young believers learn that we are strangers in this world. If we-do not learn it by walking in the love, of God, then He has to allow trials, and teach us the hard way. So here, after God had allowed a few difficulties to arise, then Rachel and Leah said, “Whatsoever God hath said unto thee, do.” It sometimes takes a long time for us to be made willing to obey the, voice of God.

At last they started off on their journey, but it certainly was not the right thing for them to “steal away” without even saying “good-bye.” Sometimes we do a right thing, but we do it in the wrong way. If we have to part company with some friend who is hindering us from pleasing the Lord, we should be courteous about it, and tell them why we are doing it. These little things in the Christian’s life (which many of us forget) are very important, and are honoring to the Lord. Rachel was very wrong in stealing the images from her father too, but our consciences can become very lax and careless about many things when we are away-from the Lord in our souls.

Laban then pursued after Jacob, intending to do him harm, but the Lord overruled and told him not to. Laban told Jacob that he should not have gone away secretly, and Jacob admitted that he had the fear of man in his heart which made him afraid. How much better if he had had the fear of the Lord which is the beginning of wisdom!

Messages of the Love of God 4/25/1948

The Lighthouse

NAT MARBLE’S father was the keeper of the Mitchell Lighthouse. But he was very sick with a fever and the helper had gone ashore to look for a doctor. So Nat was alone with his father and a bad storm was coming up.

“The lamp ought to have been lighted before now,” said Nat to himself. “Suppose a ship should run ashore for want of a light and all the people be drowned, why I would be a murderer.” And poor Nat’s blood almost froze in his veins.

Taking a light, he climbed the winding stairs to the great lamp at the top. All seemed clean and in good order, but when he touched the wicks with the flame of his lamps, the wicks only smoked. He ran down the stairs for the oil can, but found that it was so thick it would not pour out. Poor Nat was in despair. He put his arms around the can and cried, “Lord Jesus, You know that there are poor men drowning tonight. Help me to save their lives—what should I do?”

Then he held the can carefully over a little lamp, and turned it slowly around the flame so as to heat it on all sides. But the oil thinned out more quickly than he had expected, and soon was trickling out onto his clothes, and before he knew what was happening, his clothes were on fire. Quickly he ran outside and rolled over and over in the snow in agony. Happily the blaze went out and his life was saved. He staggered to his feet again and crawled painfully up the stairs. With many a groan and cry of pain he filled the lamps. He could scarcely hold out long enough to light the wicks and set them right. The light of Mitchell’s Ledge flashed out through the night of storm just in time to save a big steamer from striking on the rock.

When morning came, the helper returned with the doctor and there they found poor Nat lying unconscious by the lights. He was nursed back to health again, and was rewarded for his bravery.

Our little friend Nat risked his life, and nearly lost it, in order to save those sailors in the storm. But the Lord Jesus gave Himself up to death for those who were His enemies. Have you ever thanked Him for His love to you? Have you taken Him as your own precious Saviour?

“WHEN WE WERE YET WITHOUT STRENGTH, IN DUE TIME CHRIST DIED FOR THE UNGODLY.” Romans 5:6.

Messages of the Love of God 5/9/1948

A Real Hero

HAVE you ever seen the ocean? The story I want to tell you took place down at the ocean shore, where the tide and the waves are very strong. There was a pier, or breakwater, at this shore, and at the end of the pier was a life buoy. This life buoy had 500 feet of rope fastened to it because, as an old sailor remarked, “The life buoy may support a man in the water, but it can’t bring him to land.”

One cold, windy October day, a little boy fell off the pier into the rough water. Some men saw him fall, and at once one young fellow threw off his coat and dived in after the lad. He soon caught hold of the little fellow and held him tight. “The life buoy!” shouted the rest of the men. Quickly they picked it up and unwound the rope. They found that someone had stolen a lot of the rope and there was not 100 feet left, and when they threw it out to the struggling pair, the rope went with it. The swimmer held onto the life, buoy, but as the sailor had said, it couldn’t bring him to land. A boat was put out, but it was at once smashed against the pier by the huge waves. The brave swimmer struggled hard to get to shore, but soon he and the little lad sank under the waves.

“Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.” John 15:13. Yes, that brave young man lost his life in trying to save the drowning boy. But he was not able to save him. We read in Hebrews 7:25 of One who is “Able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him.”

If someone had been there who was able to save the two drowning ones, do you not think they would have trusted him? Dear boy or girl, there is a Saviour who is able and willing to save you from a lost eternity. Will you trust Him? “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved,” Acts 16:31.

Messages of the Love of God 5/9/1948

What Really Matters?

IT was winter in China, and the war was on. At any moment an invasion might be expected from the Japanese, but gathered together in a perfectly cold room without any comforts, were a number of Chinese girls listening intently while someone spoke to them sitting on a broken chair.

They had come together to hear about the Lord Jesus Christ and His redeeming love. There were about a hundred of them, and nothing else seemed to matter very much as compared with those eternal matters.

Are you so eager to hear about the love of Christ? Time is going very quickly, and at any moment the Lord may come for His own. Are you ready?

“The coming of the Lord draweth nigh.” James 5:8.

Messages of the Love of God 5/9/1948

Does God Love Me?

IS there anyone in the world too bad to be saved? Let me tell you of how God’s love reached the heart of a poor old murderer. One bitterly cold Lord’s Day afternoon, a group of young men went to a jail to preach the gospel to the prisoners. They went from cell to cell telling the story of the love of Jesus to those poor sinful men.

And let me ask you, dear reader,— what message would you have for these men? Would you tell them to be very sorry for their sins and try to lead a better life, or would you be able to tell them of a Saviour who died for their sins?

One of the Christian visitors went to a cell where there were few poor old tramps. He began to read the third chapter of John’s gospel. As soon as he had finished the sixteenth verse, an old colored man came close to the bars and said, “Was dat story you was readin’ in the Bible?” The poor old man had no teeth, no hair, no shoes, and was wearing a pair of old overalls. He was told that he had just heard John 3:16.

“Please read that about God lovin’ the world ovah again, I didn’t hear it very good.”

Slowly and carefully the young man read again, “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

The old man thought a moment and then said, “Say, Mistah, do that verse mean that God loves everybody in the whole world?” He was told that “whosoever” meant everybody and anybody, black or white, rich or poor, old or young. It means anyone who believes that Jesus was the Son of God and that He died on the cross of Calvary for sinners.

Poor old Bill, ragged and half blind, leaned harder on the cold steel bars as he drank in the story of Jesus coming to save sinners. Suddenly he spoke again, “But, Mistah, that is only for good, good people and not for a wicked old tramp like me that can’t read and write. You know I was born black, and I has been living black ever since. I killed a man in a gambling game and spent twenty years in prison for it. When I got out I just lived by cheating and stealing ever since. You mean that God could love a mean sinner like that?”

Again John 3:16 was slowly read to him and he seemed to drink it in, for a bright smile lighted up his face as he said, “God so loved the world, and I’m part of that world, ain’t I, Mistah!”

“This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Timothy 1:15.

Messages of the Love of God 5/9/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 32:1-20

JACOB started out again on his way to return to Canaan. It was not, however, going to be an easy path, for when we are away from the Lord the way back is sometimes quite difficult, though there is blessing at the end. Here the angels of God met him. God was still caring for His wayward child, and leading him step by step to the place where He would have him. But Jacob must meet his brother Esau, whom he had treated so badly, and this made him very uneasy. If you have wronged someone, dear reader, be assured you will never be happy in your soul until the matter is cleared up. This long period of twenty years did not change it, and Jacob, conscious of his guilt and f or-getting the unchanging grace of God, speaks of Esau as “my lord.” Yes, he was afraid of Esau, for we always lose the enjoyment of our standing in grace when we allow such things as Jacob did, in our own lives. We will be afraid of the world, if we do not walk to please the Lord. “The wicked flee when no man pursueth: but the righteous are bold as a lion.” Prov. 28:1. If we want to have that holy boldness before God and men, we must learn to judge anything in our lives that is displeasing to the Lord, and walk uprightly before Him. When we try to cover things up, or pass over them lightly, we will soon find the truth of God’s Word, “Be sure your sin will find you out.” Numbers 32:23.

Jacob had never really been before God about what he had done, and in his usual scheming way he decided to send a present to Esau in order to find favor in his sight. He got everything well arranged, but he was still “greatly afraid and distressed.” It is always that way when we try to settle things in our own way without a full conf ession before the Lord. Two wrongs never make a right, and it is useless to try to undo our mistakes in any other way than God’s way, which is to get into His presence owning all to Him.

After Jacob had made all his plans, he then asked God to bless them. How often we do the same thing! He should have prayed first, and then the Lord would have shown him what to do, taking away his fear of Esau too. He knew God as the God of Abraham and Isaac—blessed fact—but He was also the God of Jacob, though Jacob did not lay hold of that. He was thinking of himself and his own unworthiness, and although he spoke of God’s promises in, his prayer, he did not confide in them. He feared Esau more than he feared God. So it is when we are away from the Lord, for we have our eyes on self and on the difficulties, instead of just trusting the God of all grace.

What a large present of goats, rams, camels, cows and other animals he was going to give Esau, but in the past twenty years of Jacob’s life we never read of him giving one thing to the Lord. Surely this should be a lesson for us. Are you, dear reader, starting out in life thinking entirely of your own interests? If the Lord leaves you here, are you going to have to look back on twenty, or perhaps more, wasted years? If you are really one of His own you can never be lost, and His grace will follow you as it did Jacob, but if you want to have a useful life for the Lord Jesus who has done so much for you, then begin today tc live for Him. You will never regret having put the Lord first.

Messages of the Love of God 5/9/1948

The Dragon Fly

THE snow had almost all melted away in the spring sunshine, leaving great puddles in the ditches. A little boy walked slowly home from school, but he did not care whether it was springtime or not, for his older brother had just died and his little heart was very sad. He sat down on a dry stone to watch the insects making tiny circles in the muddy water; but he was not thinking about insects, only about the empty seat at school and the new grave in the cemetery.

Suddenly, a queer insect crawled up a tall weed out of the water, and something strange began to happen. Out from inside the insect’s skin came a beautiful winged dragon fly, It crawled to the very top of the weed, stretched its thin gauzy wings several times, and in a very few minutes, it was out of sight in the air, flying swiftly and surely, although it had never been out of the water before.

The little boy looked more closely to see hundreds of insects darting here and there in the water, waiting until their time came to fly away, and live no more in the muddy ditchwater. He sat still, thinking of the older brother whose turn had already come to leave this world; and as he looked at the empty skin of the dragon fly still clinging to the tall weed, he thought of his brother’s lifeless body that had been buried in the grave. The dragon fly had gone up and away out of his sight —but where had his older brother gone?

The boy knew well that not all those whose bodies lie in the grave have gone to Heaven. But he knew that the way to Heaven has been opened, and that the Lord Jesus who died for sinners is risen again, and has ascended there to the Father’s right hand. Now Heaven is open to those who can say, “I have sinned, but Jesus died for me.” The little boy was perfectly sure that his dear brother was in Heaven, because long ago he had trusted that precious Saviour and loved to tell others about Him. Yes, the lifeless body was still in the new grave, but brother had gone up and away, fearless and happy, to be with the Lord Jesus.

The little boy wiped the tears from his eyes, for he too was trusting in that finished work and could say, Some day I will be up with the Lord Jesus too, for He loved me and gave Himself for me.” He hurried home to tell Mother about the dragon fly, and the lesson it had taught him, and Mother’s heart was glad because God Himself had comforted her little boy.

“THE SON OF GOD. WHO LOVED ME. AND GAVE HIMSELF FOR ME.” Galatians 2:20.

Messages of the Love of God 5/16/1948

Archias - Or Too Late

IN Greece, many years ago, was a ruler named Archias who was a very selfish man and only lived for pleasure. He was hated by those over whom he ruled, and they wickedly made a plan to kill him.

Of course he knew nothing of this plan, but he had a friend who heard of it, and who, though far away, decided to warn the ruler. He sent a messenger riding in great haste to Archias, carrying with him a letter describing all that had been planned and showing a way of escape.

When the messenger arrived Archias was holding a great feast, but as the man said he had come from Athens with a very important letter, he was admitted into the presence of the ruler.

“My lord,” he said, “the one who sends this letter earnestly begs that you will read it at once, as it speaks of something very serious.”

Archias was having too good a time to want to read the letter, and he never guessed what it contained —”Serious things tomorrow,” he cried. Laughing, and dismissing the messenger, he cast aside the unopened letter to continue his own enjoyment.

That same night those who had planned together, rushed forward before the feast was over and killed him.

The life of Archias was in great danger but he would not heed his friend’s warning. And you, too, are in danger, unsaved reader — in danger of eternal punishment, for “it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.” Heb. 9:27.

But there IS a way of escape. The Lord Jesus has borne the wrath of God in your place when He died on Calvary’s cross. In those three hours of darkness He suffered for your sins, and all that is left for you to do is to accept Him as your Saviour. He is waiting to receive you—why not trust Him NOW? “How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation?” Heb. 2:3.

Messages of the Love of God 5/16/1948

What Time Is It?

“WHAT is the time, please?” asked two little boys of a passer-by.

“The time, boys?”

“Yes,” replied the older, “I want to set my watch right,” and he proudly pulled a nice new watch out of his pocket.

“It is exactly twenty-five minutes past three, by mine,” said the man, “and I believe it is correct but wait a moment, boys, this is only standard time, and I must tell you of another.”

The man then held out his Bible and said, “Here in this Book we read of God’s time,” and then he read to the boys, “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Cor. 6:2.

“I am glad to see you carry a watch. Most people are careful to know just what time it is, but they are very often careless about God’s time.”

These boys almost smiled at so unexpected an answer, but after talking with the stranger for a time, they found that the question was a very important one.

Perhaps you don’t own a watch, but you know something about time. You know what mother means when she says, “It’s time for dinner” or “It’s time to start for school.” What then, does God mean when He says, “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation”?

God means that He wants you to be saved now. If you don’t come when mother says it’s time for dinner, you may miss your dinner, but then you would surely be in good time for supper. If you don’t start to school in time, you may be late, and perhaps punished for it. But if you pay no attention to God’s Word when He says, “Now is the day of salvation”, you will miss Heaven.

Dear reader, God loves you, and wants you to accept His great salvation. “How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation?” Hebrews 2:3.

Messages of the Love of God 5/16/1948

A Dog's Gratitude

SOME time ago, a dog came limping slowly down a country road, and stopped at the door of a farmhouse. There he stood and barked until someone came out to see what was wrong. Soon the farmer appeared and the dog simply held up one paw. The man saw at once that there was a large splinter under the skin. Very carefully he opened the paw with a penknife, cut out the splinter, and bound up the wound. The dog wagged his tail for a minute and then trotted away.

A few days later, the farmer heard a loud barking again at his front door. This time, what do you think he found? A bone! Yes there was a big bone on the step, and there was the dog trotting away down the road. That was the dog’s way of saying “Thank you.”

Have you ever thanked God for His wonderful gift? “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 the Love of God 5/16/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 32:21-24.

HOW do you like to be alone with God, dear reader? No doubt if you are unsaved it would make you very afraid, and Satan the enemy of our souls will do all he can to keep you from it. He will try to keep you so busy with other things such as school, work, or pleasure, that you will not have any time to think about eternity. Your sins make you fear the presence of God, and Satan knows that if you feel how awful they are in God’s sight, you will never rest until you know that they are gone. In spite of your busy life, we would ask you, dear unsaved reader, to get quietly before God on your knees right now. You will find that although He hates your sins, He loves you, and in love He has provided salvation for lost sinners. His Word declares that “The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7. When you have received Him as your Saviour, then you will know that your sins are gone, and you will be able to rejoice in His presence, and feel at home on your knees before Him.

In our chapter we find that after Jacob had sent his wives and all that he had over the brook Jabbok, he himself was left alone; and yet he was not alone, for “there wrestled a man with him until the break of day.” An unsaved person, as we have remarked, is afraid of the presence of God, but it is also sadly true that even a believer, if careless in his ways, will feel uneasy when alone with God. Sin always makes cowards of us, and Jacob, though a man of faith, had unconfessed sin in his life which made him very unhappy.

Perhaps some of our readers may be wondering why the Lord wrestled with Jacob. Now Jacob had been away from the Lord in his soul for twenty years and God was working in His own way to bring him back. God’s way of restoring him was not an easy one, for often the Lord has to deal very sternly with His own in order to bring them back to Himself, but it is always in love. It is “whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth.” Hebrews 12:6. He loves His children too well to allow them to go on in their own ways, and if the Lord is allowing trouble in your life, dear reader, it is because He loves you just as He loved Jacob through all those twenty years of failure. He was wrestling with Jacob in order to bring the “break of day” into his life. Long before this the sun had set upon him and he had laid down to sleep, but here at last the sun arose, and the day broke upon him.

If the one who reads these lines is away from the Lord, there is a message for you in our chapter. Do not go on one moment longer without getting alone in your room with God. He wants to wrestle with you, and bring “the break of day” into your life. Will you too, be in earnest, and “wrestle in prayer” with God, owning all that has come in. Hide nothing, for He knows it all. He loves you, and wants you to have the joy of His salvation. He wants your joy to be full, and it cannot be while you are going after the empty and sinful pleasures of this poor world. One who is saved is spoiled for this world, because he has changed his citizenship. He belongs to Heaven, and his home is there.

Messages of the Love of God 5/16/1948

The Chingtechen Temple

Here is an idol! Can you imagine people worshipping such a hideous looking thing as this, and yet many do. WE will tell about an idol in far away China, in the city of Chingtechen, where there is a large Buddhist temple. This temple is on top of a high hill, overlooking miles of winding river and broad stretches of rice fields. Inside the temple there is a three-eyed fierce looking idol, holding in his hand a huge club. Above his head, in Chinese characters is written, “Who would come to have their sins forgiven?”

Would you, dear children, like to go to an idol like that to have your sins forgiven? I know you wouldn’t, but have you ever come to the Lord Jesus who says, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matt. 11:28.

But what answer does the idol give? On the right side there is one answer, “If you are not a bad man, what need have you to fear me?” and on the left side, the message is, “The sinner certainly will not be forgiven.” What a message for a poor sinful Chinaman! No forgiveness. The reader of this paper lives in a land where people do not worship idols, but where the Word of God is freely read. May your heart know the sweetness of its answer to the weary sinner,

“IN WHOM WE HAVE REDEMPTION THROUGH HIS BLOOD THE FORGIVENESS OF SINS, ACCORDING TO THE RICHES OF HIS GRACE.” Ephesians 1:7.

Messages of the Love of God 5/23/1948

Old John's Dream

THIS story is not going to be about a boy or girl, but about an old man named John. This poor old man lived in a very dirty room,

in the poorest part of the city of Exeter. Old John was a drunkard. He had often been in jail, but as soon as he got out, he always went back to his drink. One day, however, he met with a terrible accident, and very nearly died. This frightened him so much that he decided he should try to live a good life. As soon as he got better, he gave up drinking, and for twenty years he never tasted liquor. Do you think old John was ready to go to heaven now, because he was a sober man? Not one bit! Perhaps he was more fit to live upon the earth, but he was no nearer heaven. The Lord Jesus says “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” John 3:3. John was in some ways a changed man, but he was not yet a new man.

God was looking down in love and pity on this poor old sinner, now eighty years old, and one night he had a strange dream. He dreamed that he heard God saying to him, “Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the Just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God.” I Peter 3:18. No doubt old John had heard those words before: he may even have learned them as a boy in Sunday School, but he had quite forgotten them.

When John woke up, he thought a great deal about his dream, and he wrote the words down on a piece of paper so he wouldn’t forget them.

The next day, as he was sitting in his room thinking again about that dream, he heard an unusual noise in the street. He put his head out the window to see what was the matter. There was a man standing on the corner holding a Bible in his hand and reading in a loud voice, “Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the Just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God.” At once, John came out on the street and showed his text to the people who had gathered round. He told them of his dream and ended by saying, “Thank God, I’m saved.”

“How do you know you are saved?” asked the young man who had just been reading on the corner.

“Why, sir, don’t you see? Christ died for me. He suffered, ‘the Just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God.’ I am the unjust one, Jesus was the Just One, so I must be saved.”

Thank God it is true. John was saved and he rejoiced to his dying day that Jesus had suffered and died for him.

It is a good thing that John got saved, even though he was eighty years old, but how much better if he had been saved when he first heard that verse in Sunday school. Dear young reader, will you not accept Jesus as your Saviour now?

Messages of the Love of God 5/23/1948

The Little Deaf And Dumb Boy

MORE than likely the one who is reading this paper can speak and hear. And perhaps you feel sorry for those who have never heard, and cannot speak. Mr. Newton was visiting a school for deaf and dumb children, and was very much attracted by one little boy. He beckoned the lad to come to him, and then wrote on a piece of paper—”My dear little boy, you see all the stars, and the sun, and the earth around you. Can you tell me how they all came there?”

The little fellow at once took the pencil and wrote—”In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.” Mr. Newton then wrote, “But whence come all the suffering and death that we see about us?”

“Sin came into the world, and death by sin,” wrote the boy.

The gentleman was surprised, and wrote, “Can you tell me any way in which a man can be delivered from all this sin and sorrow?”

“The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin,” wrote the lad.

Still more surprised, the gentleman wrote, “I will ask you only one question more. Can you tell me why you can neither speak nor hear, when so many around you can do both?”

“Even so, Father:” wrote the little boy, with a happy smile, “for so it seemed good in Thy sight.”

Mr. Newton was amazed, and well he might be. This little boy had answered these four hard questions and seemed so happy. He had learned from the Word of God that sin was the cause of sickness and suffering, and that God had provided the blood of Jesus as a remedy for sin.

Do not think that the Bible is a hard Book to understand. It will tell of God’s love to you, and He will fill your heart with peace and happiness if you believe it, and accept Christ as your Saviour.

“The Bible tells us Jesus died A sacrifice for sin:

The gate of heaven to open wide, That we may enter in.

The Bible tells us Jesus rose, And left the silent grave, Triumphant over all His foes, The mighty One to save.”

Messages of the Love of God 5/23/1948

He Loves Us Unto The End

AN old man lay dying on his bed in the little cottage room where he had spent his last winter. He was happy, trusting in the Lord,

and the day before he died he raised himself up on his bed and said, “Bless the Lord: He’s taken care of me for nearly ninety years and now He’s going to take care of me for ever and ever. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.”

Dear reader, could you face death with such confidence as this dear old man? Do you know that you are going to spend eternity with the Lord, because He has made you fit to do so through faith in Christ’s finished work? If not, why not trust Him now?

He says, “Even to your old age, I am He; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you: I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry . . . you.” Isa. 46:4.

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 32:25-32.

WHEN the day began to break, Jacob asked the Lord to bless him. For a long time he had been taking things into his own hands, trying to work out his own plans, but now at last he seeks blessing from the Lord. How good to know that “The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and He addeth no sorrow with it.” Prov. 10:22. Too often we try to get blessing in paths of our own choosing, and the Lord has to, allow something like this wrestling with Jacob to make us see that His ways are best for us.

Jacob’s thigh went out of joint while wrestling, and for the rest of his life he was lame—he “halted upon his thigh.” However there is something very beautiful in what God tells us about him in Hebrews 11:21. “By faith Jacob when he was a dying, blessed both the sons of Joseph; and worshipped, leaning upon the top of his staff.” Jacob never forgot what happened at Peniel, for it taught him dependence, and he had to lean on the top of his staff; but in that position he could be what he never had been in Padan-aram —a worshipper.

Peniel means “the face of God”, and there are two important points here which we should notice. First Jacob had to get to Peniel before he could get to Beth-el. When a believer has left the assembly where the Lord has placed His Name, it often takes some time for him to get back, and he must be restored in soul to the Lord—must be before “the face of God” alone, before he can get back with the Lord’s people (at Beth-el, the house of God) in happy fellowship again.

This brings us to the second point. Jacob asked the Lord to tell him His Name, but the Lord did not do so, though He did bless him, saying that Jacob’s name was to be called Israel. (a prince). Jacob was not yet in the place where God could make Himself known to him, and though the daybreak came, and a blessing with it, there were still some lessons to be learned of God’s abundant grace, and of the wretchedness of self, before God could tell Jacob His own Name. It is well to have these things clearly before us, for God delights to bless His people, but we often hinder the blessing by thinking more of our own honor than of God’s glory, which must always come first in all His ways.

No doubt after Jacob had met Esau, he would say something similar to the lines written by a dear sister in the Lord many years ago,

He was better to me than all my hopes;

He was better than all my fears;

He made a bridge of my broken works,

And a rainbow of my tears.

Poor Jacob’s heart had been filled with doubts and fears, as he thought of meeting his brother Esau, but how wonderful is the grace of God. No one can do any harm to His people, or even speak an unkind word to them unless the Lord allows it. He can make even our enemies be at peace with us when our ways please Him (Prov. 16:7), or He can stir up adversaries if there is a needs-be (1 Kings 11:14,23). It is all as He sees best, and the great thing for us to do is to be exercised that our ways are pleasing to the Lord, and then to confidently leave all in His hands.

Messages of the Love of God 5/23/1948

Five Yoke Of Oxen

VERY few farmers use oxen in this fast-moving age, but they are very strong animals, steady and obedient, ready to draw a wagon or plow a field. They are somewhat like cows, but see their strong shoulders under the heavy wooden yoke. Indeed I well remember some years ago, when a car went into the ditch in Nova Scotia, the driver looked at it rather anxiously and said, “I think a horse could pull it out.”

“No,” answered the farmer, “A horse couldn’t, but an ox could!”

Many years ago, a farmer bought five yoke of oxen. He had not seen them, but he was quite sure they would be very useful on his farm. He knew how strong and steady they are, and he hoped they would help to make him rich. I am afraid however that they were more of a hindrance than a help, as you will agree when you hear his story.

A great king had invited that man to come to his son’s wedding. It was a very wonderful wedding indeed, but the farmer was too busy. He chose to go and see his oxen rather than to please the king and show honor to the king’s son, That was a poor choice indeed. The king made great and costly preparations, and there were hundreds of happy guests, but this farmer was not there. He refused to accept the invitation and dishonored the king in order to prove his ten big oxen.

We have an invitation for you, dear reader, from the King of Kings. He wants you in Heaven to enjoy His company for ever. Yes, the Lord Jesus is the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. He has made costly preparations, very costly, for it cost God the giving up of His own beloved Son into death, that this invitation might be offered to you. Will you tell Him that you don’t care? Will you tell Him that you are too busy? Will you tell Him that you would rather go riding, or swimming, or playing ball, than listen to his invitation? What a poor choice that would be. Surely you would not be so foolish,

If a friend invites you to supper, you may say “Yes” or “No” as you think best, but be careful how you answer the King of Kings. There will be thousands of happy Christians in Heaven, all through the work of God’s beloved Son on Calvary’s cross, but will you be there? It probably isn’t five yoke of oxen with you, but anything which hinders you from accepting God’s invitation should be put on one side, or you will be sorry for it in hell when it is forever too late.

“To-day if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts.” Hebrews 3:15.

“IF THEY ESCAPED NOT WHO REFUSED HIM THAT SPAKE ON EARTH, MUCH MORE SHALL NOT WE ESCAPE, IF WE TURN AWAY FROM HIM THAT SPEAKETH FROM HEAVEN.” Hebrews 12:25.

Messages of the Love of God 5/30/1948

Guarded By God

THREE English officers had been tiger hunting one day in India. They had not fired a shot all day, as they had not seen one tiger. On their way home, they noticed a large earthen pitcher in the middle of a field. A few Indian natives were working nearby, and the officers decided that they would amuse themselves by shooting at the pitcher, which was worth only a few cents. The pitcher was quite a distance from them, but they were good marksmen, and so the first one took careful aim and fired—and missed! The next man raised his rifle and fired—and he also missed! The third man also missed. They were surprised and annoyed at themselves, and came quickly forward to see where their bullets had struck. They were quite near the pitcher when they heard the helpless crying of a baby. And what did they see when they looked in? A little child, who had been hidden in the pitcher to protect him from the dangerous insects. The mother who had been working nearby came running up greatly frightened. The men trembled as they saw the marks of their three bullets right by the pitcher, but neither the vessel nor the child were hurt at all. They told the mother they were sorry to have frightened her, and then walked slowly and thoughtfully away, speaking together of the wonderful way in which God had protected the child from death, and themselves from killing him.

“The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear Him, and delivereth them.” Psalm 34:7.

“Their angels do always behold the face of My Father which is in heaven.” Matthew 18:10.

Messages of the Love of God 5/30/1948

Whatsoever Things Are Just

WHATSOEVER things are just . . . think on these things.” Phil. 4:8. This is the third thing on the list of what God has told us to think about, and perhaps little understood in an unjust world.

All of the virtues mentioned in our verse shone out in perfection in the life of the Lord Jesus as man down here. He was the Just One who suffered for us the unjust, in order that we might be brought to God. (1 Peter 3:18). We are now justified by faith, and have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. (Romans 5:1.) To be justified before God means that we stand before Him in Christ, “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus.” Rom. 8:1. Our standing then is in Christ, and that is why we are justified. Knowing this, as we trust all our readers do, we can be occupied with Him—the Just One, and seek to be like Him in our walk and ways.

We now have a new nature which finds its delight in thinking of the things that please the Lord, and we should keep the old nature in the place of death. (Rom. 6:11). If we look for failure in others we are sure to find it, and others will see failure in us too, for the flesh is still in us all, even though we are saved and, “in Christ” as to our standing. Let us look for something of Christ in one another, and we will not be disappointed. I remember feeling very badly one day about the way a certain Christian had acted toward me, and then I heard something very nice about him—-something which showed that he had a real desire to please the Lord. As I thought about this nice and kind act, I soon forgot about the other matter. This is God’s way, and if followed by us all as Christians, how much happier we would be together. Let us seek grace from the Lord to think, and talk about, the good points in others instead of their failures. If there is something we must speak about, let us do it in all humility of mind to the person themselves first, and not be talebearers. (Matt. 18:15. Gal. 6-:1).

Let us then say a little practical word as to what is “just.” We have spoken of thinking about these things, and seeing them in others; now let us apply it to our own walk. Let us learn to be fair and upright in all our dealings, at school, in business, and at all times. If we do this before the world, and among our fellow-believers, we shall find that when we want to speak a word for our precious Saviour—when we want to tell of His love, people will be more ready to listen. Even when we speak in the meetings, and to other young people, our word will have more weight because we have been seeking to honor the Lord in our lives, and others have seen it.

It has been said, and can be repeated with emphasis; if we want to be a help to others, and our words to have power, we ourselves must walk in godliness.

May the Lord help us each then to “Gird up the loins of our minds” 1 Peter 1:13, and not let them run fast and loose after anything and everything. God has told us what to think about, dear young Christian. Let us try His way, and we will “prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God” Romans 12:2, by walking in it. “The path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more until the perfect day.” Prov, 4:18.

Messages of the Love of God 5/30/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 33.

INSTEAD of Esau harming Jacob, he embraced and kissed him, removing all Jacob’s fears at once. It was God who disposed Esau to be so kind, for there has been bitter hatred between Jacob’s descendants (the Jews) and Esau’s descendants (the Arabs) ever since. It reminds one of that verse, “The king’s heart is in the hand of the Lord, as the rivers of water: He turneth it whithersoever He will.” Prov. 21:1. God brought Daniel into favor and tender love with the prince of the eunuchs, just as here he brought Jacob into favor with Esau. Let us learn as young Christians to bring all our difficulties to the Lord, trusting Him to do what seems impossible, for there is nothing too hard for the Lord.

As we have remarked previously, Jacob still had some lessons to learn, and he did not see that all was of grace. He called Esau “my lord,” forgetting, at least for the time, that the promised blessing rested on himself, not because he deserved it, but because “the gifts and calling of God are without repentance.” Romans 11:29. God had said, “The elder [Esau] shall serve the younger [Jacob] Romans 9:12, and His purposes of sovereign grace, were going to stand in spite of all Jacob’s failure. Esau would have welcomed Jacob to Mount Seir, his own dwelling place, but God was leading him step by step to Beth-el. Once again Jacob’s deceitful, character is seen, for he told his brother a lie in saying that he was going to Mount Seir, for it is quite apparent he had no thought of doing so. This should remind us, dear children, that God knows the very thoughts of our hearts, and hears everything we say. It is never right to tell a lie, even though it may seem to get us out of trouble. “Lying lips are abomination to the Lord.” Prov. 12:22.

At last Jacob got to Canaan, though not yet to Beth-el. When in Shechem he would have settled down, for he bought a piece of land on which to pitch his tent. He made an altar there, and called it El-Elohe-Israel, which means God, the God of Israel. He was making some progress, but would worship as an individual, instead of in Beth-el, the house of God. He was like many dear Christians to-day, who are satisfied to stay at home and read their Bible, or listen to the radio, instead of being exercised to go, if possible, and meet with those who are gathered together to the Name of the Lord Jesus. There we can remember Him in His death, as well as attend the Bible reading and the prayer meeting. And let us not forget the Sunday school, and the Gospel meeting too, where we can “strive together for the faith of the Gospel” Phil. 1:27, according to the Word of God. It is a fine thing to read your Bible at home, but the truth of God will never make us self-centered. It will lead us rather to gather with others who “call on the Lord out of a pure heart.” 2 Timothy 2:22.

If Jacob had been walking as he should, the Lord could have guided him with His eye, but sad to say He had to use the “bit and bridle” and guide him the hard way. (Psalm 32:8,9.) Much better however, that the Lord should use the bit and bridle, than that He should leave us to our own wilful ways.

The hand our many sins had pierced, Is now our guard and guide.

Messages of the Love of God 5/30/1948

Bible Questions for June

The Children’s Class

The Answers are to be found in Matthew chapters 10-18.

Write in full the verse in which you find the words:

1. “Gathered together in My Name,”

2. “Thou art the Christ.”

3. “He cried, saying, Lord, save me.”

4. “I will give you rest.”

5. “Fear them not therefore.’

6. “To hear those things which ye hear.”

7. “They shall give account thereof.”

“The Young People’s Class”
JUSTIFICATION

“Justified from all things” means that God looks upon the believer as if he had never sinned at all. We might ask, “How can He do that when we are all sinners?”‘ The only answer is that the work of Christ on the cross has so perfectly settled the whole question of our sins, that God sees us “in Christ”—-in a life that never sinned at all.

Some are puzzled by the verses in James about being “justified by works,” but anyone who carefully reads that chapter will see that it is not before God, but before men. Men cannot see faith without works (James 2:18.) so we must show our faith to them by our works. This Abraham did, and all the true children of God do (in a measure at least), but without faith all of a man’s works are “dead works.” Heb. 9:14.

1. Was Abraham justified before God by works? Romans 4,

2. From how many things is the believer justified? Acts 13.

3. By what are we justified (two things) Romans 5.

4. By Whom are we justified? Romans 8.

5. What did the publican say, by which he could go to his house justified? Luke 18.

6. What did the Lord say about those who justified themselves? Luke 16.

7. Was Abraham justified before man by his works? James 2.

Messages of the Love of God 6/6/1948

Watching Or Waiting

WHEN a fishing boat was nearing shore each of the men on board was eagerly scanning the pier to see if his wife was watching for him.

One by one they would smile and remark “There’s my lass,” excepting Jem, who time and again would turn his eyes shoreward, only to be disappointed in not seeing the familiar form of Meg.

He looked around again as he stepped ashore, and then slowly wended his way up the rocky hill to his cottage. As he opened the door his wife looked up with a smile from the book she was reading and said, “Home at last, Jem, I’ve been waiting for you.”

“Maybe so, lass,” he responded, “but the other men’s wives were down on the pier watching for them.”

There is One who is coming soon—perhaps today—and what does His coming mean to you? If you have not yet taken Him as your Saviour, should He come tonight it will then be forever too late to accept His offer of forgiveness and peace through faith in His precious blood.

If you are a child of God, are you looking for His coming, with great joy at the thought of seeing His blessed face and being forever with and like Him? Or are you, like Meg, making yourself contented in this world and its passing pleasures, giving neither time nor thought to the truth that “The coming of the Lord draweth nigh.” James 5:8.

May we ever be ready to respond “Even so, come, Lord Jesus”—when He reminds us “Surely I come quickly.” Rev. 22:20.

“WHAT I SAY UNTO YOU I SAY UNTO ALL. WATCH.” Mark 13:37.

Messages of the Love of God 6/6/1948

The Blind Girl And Her Bible

I’M very sure that the reader of this story is not blind, but perhaps you have met someone who is blind, and have felt very sorry for them as they felt their way along the streets. Let me tell you a story of how a blind girl found the Lord Jesus, and of how she learned to read her Bible.

Some years ago, a Christian was visiting among some poor cottagers. In one little home, he found a woman busy ironing, a little boy playing on the floor, and a young girl sitting over by the window, weaving with straw. The young girl was blind, and so did not even look up when the visitor entered the room. He soon began to tell the story of Jesus and His love, and before long, great tears began to roll down the cheeks of the young girl. It was all quite new to them, and they had never heard of Jesus’ love before. Before long, both the mother and the blind daughter kneeled down and accepted the Lord Jesus as their own Saviour. No sooner had young Marie accepted the Lord Jesus, than she wanted to try to read the Bible. It was soon planned that she should go to a nearby school every morning to learn to read the Bible in Braille. If you have never seen “Braille”, let me explain that the letters are not seen with your eyes, but are felt with your fingers. Instead of letters, there are numbers of raised dots, which the blind folk can feel and so learn to read. But poor Marie was greatly disappointed. Her fingers had become so hardened by her straw weaving that she could not feel the Braille letters!

Day after day she wept, saying she would so like to read the Word of God. At last she said, “God has opened the eyes of my soul, surely I ought to be glad and to praise Him for that.”

But what would she do now with her portion of the Braille Bible? She decided that she should give it to some other blind person whose fingers might be able to feel the letters more easily. Pressing the precious book to her bosom, she fell on her knees and prayed. “Oh, precious Lord Jesus, I thank Thee that Thou hast not hid Thyself from a poor blind girl. And as I cannot read thy heavenly words, I beseech Thee to whisper them to my heart continually, so that my mind may not be so dark as my eyes.” Then she put the opened Book to her lips to kiss it good-bye. Oh, what joy! She could feel the letters with her lips!

Shortly after, that same Christian visited the cottage again, and there he found Marie, happily reading her Bible. “Isn’t it nice to kiss the lovely words while I am reading them?” she said.

Has the Lord Jesus ever opened your eyes to see that He loves you, and longs to save and bless you?

“The words of the Lord are pure words:” Psalm 12:6.

Messages of the Love of God 6/6/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 34 & 35:1.

WHAT a sad picture we see in the thirty-fourth chapter! Poor scheming and planning Jacob got into plenty of trouble with his family.

No doubt there are lessons for us all here, and since most of our readers are children and young people, it will help you a great deal to learn them now, for if you do, you will be spared many a sorrow. If you are truly saved, the Lord will bring you safely home to glory, but if you choose to walk in wilful ways, He will have to bring you by a hard way as He did Jacob. How much happier it would be to walk in His ways, and take Him into all your plans, asking His guidance, and seeking His help. It is becoming harder to be faithful, for the world holds out so many attractions, but they will soon leave you alone if you try to follow Christ, Remember however, that you are not alone, for the Lord does not call upon us to go out from the world’s company, but to “come out,” showing that He is outside too, and He will be our Friend and Companion—yes, a Father to us in such a position. (2 Cor. 6:17,18) He will also lead us to true companions, though perhaps few in number, who fear the Lord and walk in His ways. (Psalms 119:63)

Jacob and his family were ready to settle down and dwell with these Hivites, marrying with them too, but God did not allow it. However the means which He used to prevent it and make them move on to Beth-el were very sad and dishonoring to His Name. It was only the goodness and grace of God which kept the nations around from cutting them off. It is a bad, thing when the evil things which our enemies say about us are true; but it is all right as long as their evil reports are false. Many of our troubles as Christians come from our mean, inconsiderate, and thoughtless ways. How different it was with Daniel. Even his enemies had to admit that there was no error or fault in him except that he trusted in the Lord. May this be more true of us! Let us be sure that those at school or at work cannot say that we are unfair, discourteous, or mean, but if they hate us because we are true to Christ and confess His Name, then God tells us to “rejoice and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven.” Matt. 5:12.

“And God said unto Jacob, Arise, go up to Beth-el, and dwell there: and make there an altar unto God, that appeared unto thee when thou fleddest from the face of Esau thy brother.” Jacob had built an altar in a city of Shechem, but God wanted him in Beth-el. Don’t we often do things which we know to be wrong, and then try to quiet our consciences by thinking that as long as we are regular at the meetings, everything will be all right? We are something like Jacob, trying to content ourselves in a place like Shechem, when we know God wants full obedience. And yet how gracious of the Lord to speak to Jacob at this time. Oh that we were more willing to hear His voice, for He speaks to us even when we are careless in our ways.

God not only wanted Jacob to go up to Beth-el, but to dwell there. He reminded him too, of how He had appeared to him there twenty years previously, for God had not changed even though Jacob had.

Messages of the Love of God 6/6/1948

The Pigeons

SOMEONE had scattered a handful of crumbs on the stones. One of the pigeons quickly spied it with his little beady eyes, and then another, and then another, until ten of them had gathered around the spot, hungry and busy, pecking at every little speck of food. The sun was shining on their pretty white and silver wings, while they made a happy little cooing in their throats.

Then suddenly—there was a whir of shining wings, and not a pigeon to be seen—not one!

What happened? Why did the pigeons suddenly leave their dinner and fly away so quickly? Were the crumbs not good? Were they not hungry anymore?

If you look closely at our picture, I think you can guess the answer. Down came a dog, a little playful dog, and all the pigeons flew away. The dog did not bark or snap at them. He only wagged his tail and sniffed among the crumbs but not one pigeon waited to see what he would do. Every one of them flew away, and of course they were safe,

It is wise to be safe, isn’t it? It is wiser still to be saved for all eternity, through the blood of Christ. Have you found some crumbs in this world, and have you called your little friends to come and share the fun with you? Be careful, for Satan would like you to be so interested in that bit of fun that you forget all about the danger of being lost in your sins forever.

Maybe there is no harm in the fun you are having. There was no poison in the crumbs, you know, but the pigeons wouldn’t stay when the dog came. They were hungry too, but it was safer to fly away. Do you want a bit of fun? Do you want it very much? The Lord wants his children to be happy, but just as the pigeons knew that a dog was dangerous company, so boys and girls, as well as older people, have to beware of bad company which would lead them into danger.

Of course the pigeons didn’t starve to death. God took care of them and gave them something else instead. God will take care of you too, if you must lose ct bit of fun for His sake. He will never take away anything from you, without giving something far better. He will save you from eternal judgment, and from the evils of this wicked world and give you a happy home forever in Heaven if you trust in the Lord Jesus as your Saviour. He wants to save you to-day. Will you come to Him before it is too late?

Perhaps you already know the Lord Jesus as your Saviour. Remember that your safety is in Him, and fly as far away from the wickedness of this world as you can.

“BLESSED IS THE MAN THAT WALKETH NOT IN THE COUNSEL OF THE UNGODLY, NOR STANDETH IN THE WAY OF SINNERS, NOR SITTETH IN THE SEAT OF THE SCORNFUL.” Psalm 1:1.

Messages of the Love of God 6/13/1948

Poison Ivy

HAVE you ever seen Poison Ivy? It is a harmless-looking little plant but can cause a lot of trouble.

One day a father showed his little boy where poison ivy grew, and then told him never to touch it, as it would make him suffer a great deal.

“Do you think you know that plant now, my boy?”

“Yes, father.”

“Well, go over to that oak tree and see if you can find any.”

“Here it is, father.”

“That’s right. Now go over and find some under that tree.”

The little boy walked carefully over, watching for the shiny green leaves. “Here it is again, father.”

“That’s right. Now that you know where it is and what it looks like, be very careful to leave it alone.”

Not many days after this warning, little red spots came out all over the little boy’s face and hands.

“Why, this is poison ivy rash,” said his father. “How did this happen after I had warned you not to touch it?”

Then the boy told the whole story of his disobedience. “Willie and I thought we would like to see if it would poison us, so we picked some and rubbed it on.”

If you have ever had poison ivy rash, you will know how sorry the little lad was. But something far more serious than poison ivy has touched your life. It is sin. And the results of sin are far worse than the results of poison ivy.

The father could get some medicine for his boy’s trouble, and it would not cost a great deal either.

And God has found a remedy for us too: But Oh, how much it cost Him! It has cost God the gift of His own dear Son. He has given Him to die, in order that sin might be put away and, that we might be saved.

Messages of the Love of God 6/13/1948

Creator

HERE is a story, dear children, of how God used the word “Creator” to bring Tashee, a Japanese girl, to Himself. In her lesson one day, Tashee came upon the word, “Creator” and, not knowing its meaning, looked it up in her dictionary. She was still unable to understand for her dictionary just said, “Creator—one who creates.” On looking into a larger dictionary she found, “Creator—one who creates. A name given to God who has made all things.”

This startled her—who was God? She could think of nothing else and as she looked around she said, “God made the trees, the mountains, the stars, all things!” Now this dear girl had been taught that Buddha—an idol—was God, so when she went to the heathen temple she said to herself, “It was not YOU, Buddha, for I never heard of YOU making ANYTHING.”

Soon after an old woman living in the same house as Tashee, said to her, “I am going to a meeting. Come with me.”

“What meeting?”

“A meeting to hear about God.”

“Oh, no, I don’t want any of your gods. I have a God of my own if only I knew WHERE to find Him.”

But she DID go to the meeting and when the speaker opened the Bible and read, “In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth,” (Gen. 1:1) her amazement knew no bounds. “Why,” she thought, “this is the God I am looking for!” and she could hardly keep her seat, so eager was she to ask, “WHERE is He?”

At the close of the service she rushed to the missionary and asked, “Is this the God that made the heaven and the earth—the Creator?” She was assured that the God of whom the missionary had been speaking was, indeed, the God who made all things; even Tashee herself, and not only so, but He LOVED her so dearly that, because she was a sinner, He had sent His only begotten Son to die for her. Many other things the missionary told this dear girl—things so new to her—so wonderful—until finally the love of God found its way into her dark heart and she became, by faith in the Lord Jesus, a child of the Creator—God.

Dear boys and girls, you have heard many times of the love and kindness of God—the God who made all things—the One who sent His Son to die for you—but have you laid hold of this for YOURSELVES? Tashee’s heathen gods were gods of hate, revenge and anger, always demanding offerings—never giving or loving and so her heart was soon won to God, who “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.

Give Him your heart to-day!

Messages of the Love of God 6/13/1948

A Secret

“The secret of the Lord is with them that fear Him.” Psalm 25:14.

I have a little secret

I’d like to share with you;

‘Twill make you very happy,

And others happy too.

I know you’ve heard of Jesus,

The Saviour from on high,

Who left His heavenly glory

To suffer and to die.

He loves you more than mother

Or father e’er can do; H

e died for guilty sinners,

And so He died for you.

My secret is “Trust Jesus”

If you would happy be;

He’ll never fail to help you;

I know He has helped me.

Trust Jesus when you’re happy

And trust Him when you’re sad;

He loves to bear your burdens,

And make you always glad.

Messages of the Love of God 6/13/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 35:1-8.

GOD reminded Jacob of the cause of his troubles. Why had he fled from his brother Esau? It was because he had deceived his father, and no doubt he remembered all that had happened at that time, and then of how God had appeared to him at Beth-el as he slept on his pillow of stones. He would think of all the wondrous promises which God had made there, and of how he had added his “if” to them all. But God had been faithful all through those long years, even though Jacob had been most unfaithful.

There is nothing like a sense of the grace of God to make us feel our own failure, and so here as soon as Jacob thought of Beth-el, he started to set his house in order. He did not think of the strange gods in his house, and the soiled garments they were wearing, until he thought of going to Beth-elthe house of God. It is a blessed thing to be in a Christian home and to be among the people of God, but it should make us think of that verse “Let every one that nameth the Name of Christ depart from iniquity.” 2 Tim. 2:19. We do not worship strange gods in these lands, as they do in heathen countries, but we may allow other things to come between us and the Lord. Friends, school, sports, pleasure, or anything to which we give first place in our hearts instead of the Lord, can become a “strange god.” Yes, even things that are right in their place, can become idols to us if we are not careful. The result of this is that we become “unclean” or defiled with things here. Because of this Jacob told his household to change their garments. We have to change our associations of life when we find they are a hindrance to our getting to Beth-el, and dwelling there according to the mind of God.

For the first time in many years Jacob spoke of the goodness of God to his family. He takes his stand faithfully before them, telling of how God had heard his cry and answered him in the day of his distress. The result is seen at once in his home. They gave up all their strange gods, and their earrings too!

Perhaps your parents have spoken to you of the conduct and dress which is becoming to a Christian—I trust they have. Are you, dear reader, willing to give up anything and everything which is not pleasing to the Lord? Are you willing to do as Jacob did, and bury such things out of sight? Jacob hid them under an oak tree, and leaving them all behind he journeyed on. Paul had things in his life which he once counted “gain” but after he was saved, the knowledge of Christ made him say, “What things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ.” Phil. 3:7. He had a new object in life—Christ.

Jacob’s family had acted very badly with those at Shechem, but God was gracious to him and kept the cities around from harming him as he journeyed to Beth-el. As soon as he arrived there he built an altar to God—the God of Beth-el, reminding himself once again of how God had preserved and cared for him. We should never tire of thinking about what the Lord has done for us, and when we get to glory we shall sing of the blood that redeemed us for all eternity. Will you be there to join in that song, dear reader?

Messages of the Love of God 6/13/1948

Ted And The Elephants

TED had never before seen a real live elephant. That is why he watched them so eagerly as they walked down the middle of the street, stepping as silently as if they wore bedroom slippers. There was a man riding high upon each one, just behind the big flopping ears.

Just in front of them was a wagonload of supplies which belonged to the elephants master. Ted was the first to notice that one of the bundles was slipping from the wagon, and would soon be under the big heavy feet. In a moment, he jumped out and pushed the bundle back where it should be.

The rider leaned over from the elephant’s back. “Thanks, youngster,” he said. “Here’s a ticket for the elephant show.”

Ted put the ticket in his pocket. All the other boys talked eagerly about the elephant show, but somehow Ted was not quite happy about it. He felt that the Lord Jesus would not be pleased if he went. The other boys did not think about that, but Ted had learned, not long ago, that he was a sinner for whom. Christ died, “that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto Him which died for them, and rose again.” 2 Car. 5:15.

The next day, crowds of children gathered in the big tent to see the elephants. Ted walked slowly, slowly, to the back door of the show, fingering the ticket in his pocket and wondering what to do. It would be fun to see the elephant tricks, but it would not be worth displeasing the One who died for him. Just then, the two elephant riders came to the door, and as they passed Ted, he heard them take the name of his precious Saviour in vain. They used the blessed name of the Lord Jesus Christ, even worse than they would use any other name.

That settled it. He walked as far as he could from the sound of their voices, tearing his ticket into little pieces. The next day the other boys talked and laughed about what they had seen, but he was glad that, just last week, he had learned a verse from his new Bible, which saved him from displeasing the Lord. Perhaps you would like to learn Ted’s verse too. Here it is:

“ENTER NOT INTO THE PATH OF THE WICKED, AND GO NOT IN THE WAY OF EVIL MEN. AVOID IL PASS NOT BY IT, TURN FROM IT, AND PASS AWAY.” Prov. 4:15, 15.

Messages of the Love of God 6/20/1948

The Stolen Currants

SOME years ago, a ship was wrecked on a rocky coast on the East of Scotland. One of the passengers was thrown into the sea, but managed to cling to a plank of the ship. A lifeboat was put out from shore, and the rescuers bravely saved as many of the drowning men as they could. They saw this poor man holding onto the plank, and rowed hard to reach him, Several times he was hidden by the waves, and just as they reached him and pulled him into the boat, he was heard to cry out, “Mother, I did take the currants. Yes, I did it.”

When at last he was on shore, and had recovered a little, the men asked him the meaning of his drowning cry. For a few minutes he was silent, but finally replied,

“You are surprised at my cry, and so am I. When I was a boy, I remember stealing some currants from my mother, and then denying it afterwards. I never once thought of the matter all my life since. But just at the moment when my strength was leaving me and I thought I was drowning, there stood my mother before me with her serious look, asking me about those currants.”

This is a little example of the memory of man, and of the language of conscience. But what would it be to awaken in hell, and to see all those forgotten sins, without any hope of forgiveness! Reader, Beware! God has not forgotten, but He does promise that if we accept the Lord Jesus, He will not only forgive, but forget them. His Word says, “Their sins and their iniquities will I remember no more.” Hebrews 8:12.

Messages of the Love of God 6/20/1948

Scrubbing The Box

HOW foolish anyone would be who called a cup clean because it was washed on the outside, and was still full of dirty water! This is a lesson which the missionaries are always trying to teach the people of India; that the inside is more important than the outside; that it is the heart that must be cleansed from sin, not only the person’s ways made better.

Here is a little story which may help you to understand what I mean.

It was noontime in the city of Benares. Up and down the steps leading to the river Ganges toiled a great many more pilgrims than usual. The priests standing on the bank were very busy putting yellow or red idol marks on the foreheads of the worshippers, and selling flowers and other offerings for the sacred river.

The reason of this large crowd was that there was an eclipse. The poor people had been taught that if they bathed in the river Ganges during the time the sun was hidden, and gave money to the priests, all their sins would be forgiven.

Whenever a crowd of heathen meets for any special purpose, a missionary usually comes and tries to talk to them about Jesus, the only Saviour from sin. So on the day of the eclipse one was there, and presently he told them this story:

“A dhobie (that is a washerman) and his wife lived in this great city, and he went down and bathed in the Ganges to have his sins washed away. As he and his wife stood in the water, he thought, ‘If washing my body makes my heart clean, I know what I will do. There is that big box of dirty clothes at home. I will bring the box down to the river and scrub it, and that will make the clothes inside clean.’ The man brought his box and scrubbed until his arms ached, but when he opened it up, the clothes inside were just as dirty as ever.”

“So,” said the missionary, “your hearts will be dirty in God’s sight, in spite of all your bathing, till you come to Jesus and let Him wash your sins away. Only when he cleanses your heart, will it be white as snow.”

“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked.” Jeremiah 17:9.

“Man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.” 1 ‘Samuel 16:7.

“Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow.” Psalm 51:7.

Messages of the Love of God 6/20/1948

SammyThe Hindoo Servant

WHILE living in India, an English family had among their servants a Hindoo boy named Sammy. Part of his work was to take their little girl out for walks, and he loved his little mistress very much.

One day, when out walking, they came to a funny little house in which was an image. Sammy stopped and made several bows before the door.

“Why do you do that?” asked the little girl.

“Oh, missy, that my god.”

“Your god, Sammy,” said the child, “that image is your god! Why, your god cannot hear, see, move, think or feel, your god is only a stone! My God can see and hear everything.”

After this the little girl often spoke to Sammy about her God. She told Sammy how sinful he was, and that his gods could do nothing for him. Not long after this the family decided to return to England, and poor Sammy was broken-hearted for he loved his little mistress so dearly. He was so sorry to lose his place.

“What shall I do,” he said, “when you go away? I have no home and no one to love me, for I have no father and mother.”

“Oh Sammy,” answered the child, “my God will love you and He will be your Father.”

Sammy’s heart was touched. “I want to love Him,” he said with tears in his eyes. The little girl taught him the verses she knew herself, and the Lord used the precious words, and in time Sammy took Jesus as his Saviour and Friend.

“There is a Friend that sticketh closer than a brother.” Prov. 18:24.

“Ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.” Galatians 3:26.

Messages of the Love of God 6/20/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 35:9-29 and 36.

GOD appeared to Jacob at Beth-el, telling him again that his name was to be Israel, which means, a prince. God delights to change our names! My name was once Sinner (1 Tim. 1:15), but now it has been changed to Saint (Rom. 1:7), because the Lord saved me. Has He changed your name, dear reader? God had not told His own Name when He wrestled with Jacob at Peniel, but when Jacob arrived at Beth-el, then He did. He said, “I am God Almighty.” We might say, before going further, that God has made Himself known by different Names in the different dispensations. A dispensation is a certain period of time, in which God has acted in a certain way. For example, the dispensation of law began when the law was given at Mount Sinai, and ended when the Lord Jesus died at Calvary in order to redeem helpless sinners from its curse, for all had broken it. The patriarchs, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, knew God as “Almighty.” God made Himself known as “Jehovah” to the children of Israel when He brought them out of Egypt. Now we who are saved know God as our “Father,” and when the kingdom of Christ is set up on earth during the millenium, God will be known as the “Most High.”

Jacob, after listening afresh to God’s wonderful promises of blessing, set up a pillar of stone. He never wanted to forget those promises again, as he had for so long in the past. He then poured a drink offering over it. We all know that offerings had an important place in the Old. Testament times. They all pointed on to the one perfect sacrifice of Christ on Calvary, and each of the different offerings, such as the burnt offering, the sin offering, and here the drink offering, all tell us of the varied aspects of His work. The drink offering tolls us of the joy we find in thinking of His finished work, and the oil poured upon it reminds us that it is by the Spirit of God, who now indwells all believers, that we find this joy. (Rom. 5:5). Unsaved people do not find any joy in thinking of the work of Calvary because they have never been born again by the Spirit of God.

When Rachel had given birth to Benjamin she died. She called him Benoni, which means the son of my sorrow, but his father called him Benjamin, meaning the son of my right hand. This tells us of the Lord Jesus, who will bring blessing to Israel, and through whom all the promises can be fulfilled. The children of Israel, like Rachel, have been set aside for the time, but in a coming day they will be brought into blessing through Christ—the Son at God’s right hand.

We will just make a few remarks about the thirty-sixth chapter. While Jacob and his f amily were still strangers and pilgrims, Esau and his family were establishing themselves in Mount Sier, and prospering. So it is to-day. The boy or girl who desires to be faithful to the Lord may not get along so well in this world as the unsaved. The world will never want a faithful testimony to Christ, for it is still the same as when it crucified Him. It hates those who confess His blessed Name boldly. (1 John 3:13.) Esau and his descendants prospered for a time, but when God brings his earthly people Israel into blessing during the Millenium, Esau’s people will be cut off entirely. (Obadiah 1:18.)

Messages of the Love of God 6/20/1948

Playing in the Sand

Muriel has a funny way of making a flower garden. Her older friends have taught her to make flower pot moulds, with a gay little branch stuck in the top of each. Mother takes weeks to grow a little flower in her garden, but Muriel’s garden blossoms all in one afternoon.

After planting her garden Muriel went home to bed, and the geese walked right through it. The dog chased the cows among her pretty plants too, until it really was a sad sight. Then came a storm: with hundreds of raindrops beating against Muriel’s window, filling all the puddles in the lane, and washing away the last traces of her little flower garden. Mother’s garden looked fresh and lovely in the morning sunshine, because Mother’s garden had roots deep down in the earth, but Muriel’s had none. That makes a difference, doesn’t it?

Muriel has grown to be a bigger and a wiser girl now, and she doesn’t play in the sand any more, for she knows that sand gardens like that won’t last. But she is not so wise after all, for she spends her time, all day long, over things that will not last for eternity. She works hard now with her pen and books, but I fear she does not know the Lord Jesus as her Saviour and if she died without Him she will have nothing—nothing at all in eternity.

Perhaps you can tell me the name of something that will last forever. Did you say “gold”? Then you are wrong, for the Word of God says that gold is corruptible (1 Peter 1:17).

Let us tell you first of all’ about the One who is the same forever. “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and to-day, and forever”. Heb. 13:8. Yes, the Lord Jesus Christ is the eternal Son of God, and if He is your own precious Saviour, nothing, not even death, can separate you from Him.

Then 1St Peter 1:25 tells us, “The Word of the Lord endureth forever.” Surely it is wise to store your memory with verses from God’s Book, which will last for all eternity.

Another verse, 1St John 2:17, tells us, “He that doeth the will of God, abideth forever.” Some day you will find that, just as surely as the raindrops destroyed Muriel’s garden, just so surely will everything in this world be destroyed, but both Heaven and Hell will last forever (Rev. 22:5, 20:10). Each one of us must spend eternity in either one place or the other.

If you come to the Lord Jesus for pardon and salvation, then you will have everlasting life, and spend eternity in Heaven. If you reject Him you are even more foolish than little Muriel, for you will be lost forever.

THE WORLD PASSETH AWAY, AND THE LUST THEREOF: BUT HE THAT DOETH THE WILL OF GOD ABIDETH FOREVER.” 1 John 2:17.

Messages of the Love of God 6/27/1948

Thou Shalt Not Steal

EDWARD was very fond of candy. He found out where his mother kept the candy box, and every little while, when he thought nobody was looking, he would take a candy. One day as he was looking out of the window, his mother sitting beside him, a policeman came past, holding a boy by the collar. The boy had been caught stealing a pair of boots from a store. The sight of the policeman and the little boy crying, affected little Edward very deeply.

That night, when Edward went to bed, he felt afraid to kneel down to pray. His mother asked why he trembled so, but he did not tell her. For some time after his mother left the room, Edward could not sleep. He thought of the boy in prison until his heart ached, and he was afraid to stay alone, for a guilty conscience is a terrible companion. At last he got up, went in to his mother and told her the truth. “Mother, I have been stealing,” he said. His mother was wise, and told him that he had not only sinned against her, but against God. She told her boy that God had seen him, and that God had marked down that sin. But she also told him that God would wash away, not only the sin of stealing, but all his many sins, if he would but accept the Lord Jesus as his Saviour.

Perhaps the reader may think it is not very serious to steal a candy, but let us remember that God’s eye is upon us at all times, and He sees everything that we do.

“All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:23.

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

Messages of the Love of God 6/27/1948

Whatsoever Things Are Pure

“WHATSOEVER things are pure . . think on these things.” Phil. 4:8. Let us also look at another verse along with this one, “Unto the pure all things are pure; but unto them that are defiled and unbelieving is nothing pure; but even their mind and conscience is defiled.” Titus 1:15. What is necessary first of all then is to have our hearts purified by faith. (Acts 15:9.)

Only a true Christian can have a pure object for his heart, and therefore the Apostle John could say to those whom he was addressing as the children of God, “Every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as He [Christ] is pure.” 1 John 3:3. The hope he is speaking about, is the hope of being with and like Christ when He appears, and when we have this before our hearts, we want to be like Him (the Pure One) down here.

The world is greatly concerned to have pure foods, pure drugs, and they have even made wonderful advancements, in air filtering and air conditioning. Everything has to be sterilized to kill germs, and foods are being continually inspected for any impurities; but how little concern there is for what is most important. The Pharisees in the days when the Lord Jesus was here upon earth were chiefly concerned with the “outside of the cup and of the platter”, and He had to tell them that it was the things which came from within, out of our sinful hearts, which defiled. (Mark 7:21-23.)

On every hand we see that which would suggest impure thoughts to our minds, and especially to ensnare the young. In ancient Greece they made gods of their passions, and the way the market is flooded to-day with indecent magazines, novels, pictures, and every other thing which tend to stir up the sinful lusts in us, we cannot help but feel that although living in so-called Christian lands, things are quickly returning to the darkness of paganism. Dear young people, let us give you one verse from God’s Word to settle the matter, “Have NO fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them.” Eph. 5:11. Fellowship, means common thoughts, and we need to be careful not to enter into conversation, or keep company with those who have impure minds. Let us not think we can take fire in our bosom, and not be burned (Prov. 6:27), for even a true Christian, if he indulges his sinful nature by reading or talking of what is impure, is on dangerous ground.

How good to know that the Lord is able and willing to keep us, but we cannot expect His keeping grace when we walk in wilful disobedience to His Word. Let us make Christ the Object before our hearts day by day, for if we are occupied with Him, then the things we think, read, and talk about will be the pure things which we find in His Word. Our conduct and dress too, will then be of such a character on all occasions that any godly boy or girl would be attracted to us, and the “good time” we enjoy together will be for the Lord’s glory. Flirting and the like have no proper place for us as Christians. We can see then how God would direct our feet as young people into the “paths of uprightness”, and those who have walked in them will join to say a thousand times over, “Her ways are ways of pleasantness, and all her paths are peace.” Prov. 3:17.

Messages of the Love of God 6/27/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 37:1-4.

THE first verse of our chapter stands out in marked contrast with the thirty-sixth chapter. Jacob was still a stranger in the land. Let us learn, dear young people, to look at things in the light of eternity, and not as they appear now. Even though the ungodly may prosper now, we know that God’s righteous judgment is hanging over this poor Christless world, and why should we heap together treasures in the last days? (James 5:3). They are all going to be destroyed very soon, and only what is of Christ will abide. “The things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.” 2 Cor. 4:18.

We now begin the history of Joseph. He is one of the most beautiful types of Christ in the Bible, and we need hardly remark that this is the reason God has given us the story of his life in such detail. It is so interesting that even the smallest child can enjoy it, while the oldest believer ever finds something new and precious in it.

Joseph was seventeen years old when we begin to read about him. As we look back over the years we can think of a good many boys and girls whom we have known, who were very regular attendants at Sunday school. They answered the Bible questions, and even spoke nicely about the Lord, until . . . yes, until they were about sixteen or seventeen. Then they missed the Sunday school a few times, then quite often, and soon they were seldom, if ever, there. They were too old for that—so they thought! They were wiser than their parents (at least they considered themselves so), and they missed many of the meetings. They dropped off the prayer meetings and the Bible readings, and only came once on Lord’s day. Even at that meeting it took very little to keep them away. They found many friends in the world, but very few, if any, are true children of God. Yes, dear young people, sixteen or seventeen is a very decisive age. The world will make a great bid for you just then, and unless you are like the strong young men (or women) of 1 John 2:14, with the Word of God abiding in you, you will not be able to overcome these temptations of the wicked one.

How refreshing on the other hand, to read of a young man like Joseph, who at the age of seventeen was obedient to his father, and was seeking to please the Lord. God could use an instrument like that, and He did use him in a most remarkable way. What a need there is to-day of earnest, godly, young men who are willing to give up for Christ. Perhaps you will have to stand alone if you choose such a path; Joseph did, and yet he was not alone for the Lord was with him.

Joseph’s father had a special love for him because of his obedience, and he made him a coat of many colors. Joseph was a type of Christ, and we think of the many glories of Christ, and of how God His Father always found His delight in Him. He would have us to find our delight in Christ too, but just as Joseph’s brethren hated him, so the Lord Jesus was hated without cause, by his brethren the Jews. “He came unto His own, and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His Name. John 1:11, 12. Dear reader, have you received Him into your heart?

Messages of the Love of God 6/27/1948

Bible Questions for July

The Children’s Class

The Answers are to be found in Matthew Chapters 19-28.

Write in full the verse in which you find the words:

1. “All power is given unto Me.”

2. “To give His life a ransom.”

3. “All they that take the sword.”

4. “My words shall not pass away.”

5. “Whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer.”

6. “Not knowing the Scriptures.”

7. “Ye know neither the day nor the hour.”

The Young People’s Class
SANCTIFICATION

Sanctification means “setting apart.” The work of Christ has set us apart from this world, which is under the sentence of judgment, and we are now “perfected forever” as to our standing before God. Sanctification is not “the second blessing” or “a second work of grace.” Every believer is blessed with all spiritual blessings, and sanctification is just one of these blessings (Eph. 1:3). Even when God does mention some of them in an orderly way, He puts sanctification before justification—not after. (I. Cor. 6:11).

Now there is a practical application of this truth to our lives, as the answers to the last four questions show us. Since we have been “set apart” for blessing through Christ’s finished work, God would have us to walk in separation from the world and its ways. This “practical sanctification” is seen in our lives day by day, when we allow the truth of God to guide us in our path.

1. By what are we sanctified? Hebrews 13.

2. For how long are those who are sanctified, perfected? Hebrews 10.

3. How do we get an inheritance among the that are sanctified? Acts 26.

4. Until what event did the Apostle pray that we might be wholly sanctified? 1 Thess. 5,

5. If we sanctify the Lord in our hearts, what will we be ready to do? 1 Peter 3.

6. What sanctifies us in our walk through this world? John 17.

7. How can we be sanctified and meet for the Master’s use? 2 Timothy 2,

Messages of the Love of God 7/4//1948

Norma

OUR picture to-day brings a little girl named Norma to my mind. She, with her father, her mother, and little sister, come forty miles every week to hear the Word of God, and to meet with the Lord’s people. When she comes Lord’s day morning in her father’s car there is usually plenty of sunshine, and Norma talks and sings with her parents all through the journey.

In the evening when they go home it is different. There is no sunshine at all; the road is dark, and often slippery in the winter, and Norma is a very tired girl. There are deep ditches, hydro poles, and sharp curves, which might cause an accident, but through the Lord’s mercy they have never failed io reach home in safety.

How does Norma’s father steer safely through all the danger of the highway at night? He is a wise man, and before the car moves an inch, he reaches out his hand and switches on the headlights. Ditches, curves, and poles, may be ahead of him, waiting in absolute darkness, but his car has lights! Every mile of the darkened highway is clear enough when the bright lights shine upon it, so you see Norma travels safely home under the Lord’s watchful care.

Would you like to travel safely home to Heaven? You cannot move a step toward Heaven, you cannot even find the heavenly road, without the light of the holy Word of God. God has written every word of it to light your path to Heaven. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me.” John 14:6. That’s a very bright light for your path to Heaven isn’t it? Indeed the Bible gives all the light we need for every step of the way, and it shines on our path, making it so clear that it is only when we shut our eyes to His Word that we go astray.

Norma does not worry about the dark curves on their homeward journey. She knows that, when she reaches them, there will be light enough, and her father will be with her. Do not worry, little reader, about the curves and dangers in your life. The Word of God will give you plenty of light when you need it, and God will be with you. Even death itself, if you must die, will be light for you. But if you will not obey the Word of God, the heavenly road will always be in darkness for you, and death itself will be the darkest of all, for you will have to spend eternity in the blackness of darkness forever.

The Lord Jesus—the true Light from God—came down into this world long ago, and through His death on Calvary He has opened up the way to Heaven for all those who will come to Him for light and salvation. Here are His own words,

“HE THAT FOLLOWETH ME SHALL NOT WALK IN DARKNESS, BUT SHALL HAVE THE LIGHT OF LIFE.” John 8:12.

Messages of the Love of God 7/4//1948

Praises

For the sunshine of the summer

That makes all ‘round us bright;

For the gladness that it brings us,

With its joyous warmth and light:

For the beauteous flowers and blossoms,

Which speak Thy skill and love;

For the music of the song-birds

All around us and above:

For the golden fruits of harvest

Which ripen o’er the plain,

Giving bread to all Thy children,

And the seed to sow again;

For the message of the Gospel,

For the Saviour’s life and death,

For the blessings which He gives us,

May we praise Him with each breath.

“Bless the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits.” Psalms 103:2.

Messages of the Love of God 7/4//1948

Robert

ONE winter day when little Robert was playing in the garden, he wandered off to a near-by pond which was covered with ice. In the

center of the ice was a hole, and as he was stirring about in this hole with a stick, he fell into the cold water.

At the far end of the pond was a small factory, and a workman, who was looking out of the window, saw something red on the broken ice. Fearing an accident he hurried down to the hole, and, pulling the red coat, as it proved to be, dragged Robert out to safety.

Poor little Robert was quite unable to save himself—he would soon have perished, had not a helper been sent to him. So it is with us, dear children. We are lost and perishing too, but Jesus HAS come and done the work to save us. Now we must receive Him as our Saviour, and, believing He died for us, we HAVE everlasting life.

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

Messages of the Love of God 7/4//1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 37:5-22.

JOSEPH dreamed a most remarkable dream. He dreamed that he was binding sheaves in the field, and that his sheaf arose and stood up while his brother’s sheaves bowed down to his. Then he dreamed again that the sun, the moon, and the eleven stars bowed to him. This made his brothers envy and hate him still more, for they could not help but feel the truth of what he had dreamed. So the Lord Jesus was particularly hated by His brethren the Jews, when He told them of His kingdom and glory, and warned them that there was a day coming when they would have to acknowledge it. (Matt. 26:64) Although the nation still abides in unbelief, what a wonderful time it will be when that One whom they rejected, comes in power to set up His kingdom at Jerusalem. They will gladly bow down to Him in that day; in fact all shall bow before Him then, even the lost who will be cast into the lake of fire. (Phil. 2:10). May the Lord give any unsaved one who is reading this paper to bow the knee now, and own Kim as Lord while it is still the day of His grace. If you do, you will be saved (Rom. 10:9), but those who bow at the great white throne will not find any mercy there.

One day Joseph’s father asked him to go and see how his brothers were, and his immediate reply was, “Here am I.” He was a willing and obedient son. In this day of disobedience to parents, it is good to see some children who want to obey the Scripture which says, “Children, obey your parents in all things: for this is well-pleasing unto the Lord.” Col. 3:20.

What a beautiful picture we can see in all this of the Lord Jesus, who, at the Father’s word came down to this ruined world—sent by God His Father in love to poor sinners. He was always willing to do His Father’s will, even to the death of the cross.

Joseph set out to find his brothers who were wandering away from him. At last he found them in Dothan, after seeking them for some time. This reminds us of the Lord who is seeking sinners, even though they are wandering farther and farther away from Him. When Joseph’s brothers saw him afar off, even while he was coming to them in love, they were planning to kill him. This makes us think of the Jews when the Lord Jesus was here on earth; for though He went about doing good, healing the sick, and raising the dead, they hated Him and sought to kill Him.

We know that the Jews really did kill the Lord Jesus, but in Joseph’s case God graciously intervened, delivering him from death. Reuben suggested that they put Joseph in a pit, hoping to be able to get him out of their hands so he could send him back to his father. Reuben was like a Christian who is in bad company, trying to please his unsaved friends, and please the Lord too. Of course we know that this cannot be done, for the Scripture says, “No man can servo two masters.” Luke 16:13. Wo. must take a clear stand for the Lord or we will be in teuhl2 all the time. A Christian who is trying to be good friends widi the world is a most unhappy person, for he is sure to have a had conscience, and what is more solemn still, the Word of God says, “Whosoever . . . will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.” James 4:4.

Messages of the Love of God 7/4//1948

The Little Donkey

MANY years ago, in the land of Israel, lived a farmer who had many animals in his fields. One day, as he walked out to see them, he found that his ass, or donkey, had a little baby donkey by her side, the first she had ever had. It was a pretty little foal with long pointed ears, and he was very pleased to have it, but as he stood there patting its little nose, he remembered at once the Word of God which says,

“Every firstling of an ass thou shalt redeem with a lamb; and if thou wilt not redeem it, then thou shalt break his neck.” Exodus 13:13.

The farmer did not want to break his little donkey’s neck, but God’s Word was very plain. And the rest of our verse is very plain too, for it says, “All the firstborn of man, among thy children shalt thou redeem.” We too were unclean before God because we were born in sin, and “The wages of sin is death.” Romans 6:23. This means that we are doomed to die, and need to be redeemed too.

But the farmer did not stop there. He walked to the sheep-fold and chose out a lamb, a perfect little lamb, which he led over to the place where the donkeys were kept. There he stood, looking at the two little animals, and thinking in his heart that one of them must die. Either the little lamb must be offered in sacrifice, or the donkey’s neck must be broken, according to the command of God.

And so, in order to save his little donkey, the farmer led his lamb to the altar, where its blood was shed and it was offered up in sacrifice to God. The foal was now free to frisk about the fields in the sunshine, because the lamb had died instead. God’s claim was satisfied, and he was no longer doomed to die.

Now God has provided a Lamb that you and I might go free. God wants to spare us from the eternal death which we deserve, and so His only Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, was led as a Lamb to the slaughter. He was the perfect Lamb of God who died in our stead that we might be redeemed by His precious blood, and go free.

But what if the farmer had no lamb? Then the little donkey must die. And what if you have no Saviour? Then you must surely perish. Do not live another day without Him, for no one else can save you.

“THOU WAST SLAIN, AND BAST REDEEMED US TO GOD BY THY BLOOD OUT OF EVERY KINDRED, AND TONGUE, AND PEOPLE, AND NATION.- Revelation 5:9.

Messages of the Love of God 7/11/1948

The Story of a Lighthouse

ON the south coast of England many years ago was a very sharp and dangerous rock. When the waves and tide were high, it was almost out of sight, and many sailing ships had been wrecked there, and the sailors drowned. I am sorry to say that some of the men who lived along the shore were glad to see these wrecks, because they could gather up the barrels of valuable things that floated to the shore, and sell them for plenty of money. It was very wicked, but their wickedness was known only to a few men, and to God.

A young Christian man named Arthur came to live nearby, and he tried often to talk to these men of his precious Saviour, the Lord Jesus, but the men were silent and angry. They did not want to hear that precious Name at all. Nevertheless, Arthur prayed often for them, and he did not give up speaking to them.

There was one home where. Arthur was sure of a welcome, and that was where little Mary lived with her father. Mother was dead and brother Sydney had gone away to sea, but Mary was Father’s little sunshine, and she did the housework while he went fishing for their living. He would have no share with the wicked men, yet he never tried to warn them or tell them of Jesus. E we want to be faithful to our God and Father, we should warn those who do wrong.

In Mary’s home, Arthur was sure to spend a happy evening reading from the big Bible with them. That is why he came so eagerly to tell them that a big lighthouse was going to be built on the dangerous rock, and they were all very glad, and hoped and prayed that it would save many lives.

Shortly afterwards, the heavy boards began to arrive in loads, and the workmen began their dangerous task. Mary told her father each night how much they had got done that day; but the wicked men were silent and angry. The new lighthouse would mean no more wrecks and no more stolen goods for them.

At last the tower was finished, tall and beautiful, all ready to be lighted, but just one problem remained. Who would live there, and care for the coal oil lamp? It was stormy and lonely, and no one wanted to go. What could be done?

This great lighthouse, which was so dangerous to build, would remind us of God’s wonderful provision for sinners. At tremendous cost to Himself, He has provided a way of salvation for perishing boys and girls through the death of His only Son. Now that this great salvation has been provided, there is a need of those who will carry the glad tidings of His love to the lost. In this way we can be like lighthouse keepers, to “shine as lights in the world.” Phil. 2:15. Long ago, when there was a message to be carried to God’s people, God asked, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for Us?” The one who heard it said, “Here am I; send me.” Isaiah 6:8. Today this same question comes to those of us who are saved, whether young or old. What are we going to answer Him? Are we willing to be like little lighthouse keepers, and shine for Him?

Messages of the Love of God 7/11/1948

I Forgive You

MANY years ago there was a boy employed by King George III to help in caring for the horses in the Royal stables.

Something about the boy won his master’s favor and the king treated him, kindly in many ways, but a time of temptation came, and the poor boy got into trouble. He had stolen some oats from the bins, and was discharged by the head stable-man. Not long after, when the king again visited his stables, he noticed that the boy was absent, and asked one of the grooms what had become of him. The man replied,

“He has been discharged, sir.” “For what reason?”

“He was discovered stealing the oats from one of the bins.”

The king ordered him to be sent for at once. The boy was brought and stood before the king, trembling, not knowing what would happen.

“Is it true what I hear of you?”

The boy’s only answer to the kind king was a flood of tears. He knew he was guilty and he was without excuse.

“Well, my boy,” said the king, putting his hand upon the lad’s head, “I forgive you.”

Then turning to the head groom, he said,

“Let this boy have his former place, and let him be cared for.” Then, turning again to the boy, he said so that all could hear, “If any one says a word to you about those oats, tell me.”

Perhaps you have never stolen anything, even oats, but God’s word says, “All have sinned,” and you know it is true. But how good to know that there is a loving God who is waiting to say, “I forgive you,” to any who will own their guilt.

“If God be for us, who can be against us?” Romans 8:31.

“God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8.

Messages of the Love of God 7/11/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 37:23-28

JOSEPH’S brothers took away his coat of many colors, and then cast him into an empty pit. Poor Joseph! He had been obedient, and yet he had to suffer. Yes, children, we often have to suffer if we are obedient to God and His Word, but Peter tells us “if ye be reproached for the Name of Christ, happy are ye.” 1 Peter 4:14. I would, much rather have been Joseph with all his suffering, than one of his wicked brethren. Their time of suffering came later. There is always an inward happiness in pleasing the Lord, but there is nothing more miserable than a bad conscience like Joseph’s brethren had until they finally confessed their sin. Far, far better to suffer than to yield to Satan’s temptations and have a bad conscience and a blighted life.

We need hardly say that the Lord Jesus, of whom Joseph was a type, is a perfect example of obedience. The Jews sought to rob Him of His coat of many colors—His glories—but He went on patiently doing His Father’s will in spite of all the suffering He had to pass through. Who suffered as He did? And yet in the midst of it all He “rejoiced in spirit,” Luke 10:21, because He found His greatest joy in doing what pleased His Father. Then at the end of His perfect life they took and nailed Him to the cross—not only in a pit like Joseph—and did every horrible thing they could to Him as He hung there. They spit in His face, crowned Him with thorns, and finally offered Him vinegar to drink, yet He endured it all and said, “Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do.” Luke 23:34. What wonderful love He had, even for His enemies who hated Him without a cause.

Oh day of man’s dishonor,

When for thy grace supreme,

He sought to mar Thine honor,

Thy glory turn to shame.

After Joseph’s brothers had cast him into the pit, they sat down to eat bread.

How little they cared for him although he had not done them any harm, but rather showed kindness to them. In this too they were like the Jews, who, after crucifying Christ their Messiah, could sit down to eat the passover. Little did they realize the emptiness of the form, without Christ the true Passover, and yet how many there are today, who go on with ceremonies and even eat the Lord’s supper while rejecting Him in their hearts. Surely they are bringing condemnation on themselves by such an act. There is nothing more blinding than religion without Christ, and, dear young reader I want to warn you against the empty formalism of the present day. It is hateful to God, as He said to Israel of old, “I hate, I despise your feast days.” Amos 5:21. God wants truth in the inward parts, and nothing that a sinner can do has any value in the sight of God if he is rejecting Christ in his heart.

While Joseph’s brothers were eating bread, a company of Ishmaelites came along, and his brothers sold him to them for twenty pieces of silver. The Lord Jesus, many years later, was sold for thirty pieces of silver “that in all things He might have the preeminence.” Col. 1:18. Poor Joseph was then carried down into Egypt, just as the Lord was sold and delivered into the hands of the Gentiles.

Messages of the Love of God 7/11/1948

Crowns

In the woodlands every springtime

Through the sunny hours,

Little girls are always happy

Gathering pretty flowers.

See them making wreaths and garlands

To adorn their hair!

Such a lovely crown of flowers

Every brow will wear,

As they’re marching gaily homeward.

Hear their joyful song,

But alas! the fragile blossoms

Cannot be worn long.

Soon the pretty petals wither,

Flowers droop and fall,

Faded crowns are so unlovely

The girls discard them all.

Oh! how different in Heaven,

When thro’ endless day—T

here shall be “a crown of glory

That fadeth not away.”

WHAT happy faces these dear children have, as they wear the garlands made of pretty blossoms. Would you not like to be with them, and share their fun? They have posed and smiled for someone to take their picture, but I wonder if they are always as happy as they appear now. Perhaps if we could see them at other times, we would find that they are not always smiling.

You see, children, sin has brought sorrow into this world, and even little folks feel it. Perhaps they may get hurt, or take sick, and it is not so easy to smile then.

However the last verse of our little poem tells us of a crown that will never fade, and all those who wear that crown will be happy forever. Wouldn’t you like to have a crown like that, children? It will be more beautiful than the ones in our picture, because everything in heaven will be better than we can imagine. Sometimes people make artificial flowers which will not fade, but they are not living ones. They remind us of those who make ways of their own to get to Heaven, but there is only one real and living way. God has made that living way, just as He only can make real flowers, and only those who come in God’s way, can be in Heaven. His way is not through any works of our own, but through the work which His Son finished for us at Calvary, when He bore our sins in His own body on the tree.

If you want to be in Heaven and wear a crown there, dear reader, you must take Jesus as your Saviour. Then you will have a crown, and a smile that will last forever.

“AND CAST THEIR CROWNS BEFORE THE THRONE, SAYING, THOU ART WORTHY, O LORD, TO RECEIVE GLORY AND HONOR AND POWER.” Revelation 4:10, 11.

Messages of the Love of God 7/18/1948

The Story of a Lighthouse Part 2

(Continued from July 11)

ARTHUR was sorely disappointed that no one could be found to care for the lighthouse. He came to tell Mary’s father about it, and was very much surprised when Mary crept around to her father’s chair, and coaxed him to be the lighthouse keeper. He shook his head; he did not want to leave her. Of course not, but Mary wanted to go too!

At last it was settled, and Mary and her father moved into the little round kitchen at the foot of the tall lonely lighthouse. The men on shore were very angry, but Arthur was pleased to see the light shine out across the dark ocean every night.

One day, as their supply of food was very small, Father planned to go to shore and return at once, leaving Mary for an hour or so alone. She watched him out of sight around a corner of land, and then busied herself with cleaning the house to pass the time. The house, however, was clean as her busy hands could make it, and the sun was lower and lower in the sky, but no sign of Father. What could a little girl do?

She read the evening chapter from the big Bible as usual, and prayed all by herself, but the next duty was the hard one, for the lamp must be lighted. It was fun to climb the winding stairs every evening with Father, but it was different to climb them all alone, when a rising wind rattled the little windows and the height made her dizzy. And now, at the very top, the light was too high for her to reach!

Down she went, and this time, dragged up her own chair. To her disappointment, the lamp was a little higher than that! Down again she climbed. this time bringing up a large basin, but it was not quite high enough, even on her tip toes, to reach the lamp. Again in the little round kitchen she prayed silently as she hunted for one more thing to add a few inches to her height. There was only one thing in sight, the big, big Bible, and a cushion. Up she climbed again, and, turning the basin upside-down on the chair, she placed the Bible on top of it, and the cushion upon that. Then she knelt down in the chilly darkness, folded her hands and said, “Lord, if it is a sin to stand on the Bible, I confess it to Thee.”

In another moment, the bright light flashed out across the stormy ocean. It was just in time too, for Mary could see a sailing ship struggling along in that very direction, trying to reach the shore. Down again in the lonely kitchen, she prayed long and earnestly for Father, and for the sailors on the ship she had seen, until at last she fell asleep.

And where was Father during the rising storm? The angry men on shore had tied Father up in a cave, hoping that the light would not shine that night, and they would get more stolen goods. Arthur did not know of this but was troubled to see that the lamp was not lighted when the sun went down, and he came, on horseback, to see if anything was wrong. Just as he reached the shore, the light shone out from the tower and showed him the sailing ship, heading straight for the rocks. He watched the struggle as the sailors tried to turn away, but the wind was very strong, and it was too late to escape. It struck a hidden rock, and began quickly to break in pieces.

Arthur rode down to the shore, longing to save someone from the wreck, but the angry men were there before him. They intended to save anything but sailors.

“Will anyone help me to save them?” cried Arthur.

At once, Father’s voice answered from a cave behind him, and in a moment he was set free, and the two men were at the water’s edge, watching and longing to save lives. Suddenly Arthur, on horseback, dashed into the water and brought back a man who had been trying to swim from the ship. A second time he rescued a struggling sailor, but the waves were very high, and his horse was almost exhausted. One more boy was seen fighting the huge waves, and Arthur urged his horse into the water again. “Don’t try,” shouted Father, but Arthur, after a fearful struggle, dragged in the half-drowned sailor and flung him at Father’s feet. At the same moment, a huge wave broke over the rocks, and with one sweep, carried horse and rider under it out to sea.

“God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8.

(To be continued July 25)

Messages of the Love of God 7/18/1948

Paid For

SUPPOSE I go into a store, and buy a book. The storekeeper wraps it up, and I pay him for it. I tell him I will leave it, and come back for it in an hour or two. He then writes my name, and the words, “Paid for,” upon the parcel, and under that he puts four other words, “To be called for.”

This is what is written on every believer,—”Paid for.” How? By the precious blood of Christ. “To be called for,” for the One who paid for us will call for us very soon, that we may live with Him for ever. “I will come again, and receive you unto Myself.” John 14:3.

Is that true of you, my reader? Are you “Paid for,” and are you waiting “to be called for”?

Messages of the Love of God 7/18/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 37:29-36. and 38.

REUBEN did not have the courage to rebuke his brothers for their evil ways. He would rather do what he knew to be wrong than “make bad friends.” How often we find young people like this, and it is so sad; for to be a friend of the world is to be the enemy of God. When Reuben came to the pit he found that Joseph was gone and he rent his clothes with grief. Instead of confessing his sin as he should have done, he joined with his brothers to make a plan whereby they could hide their wicked act. They did not realize that “he that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.” Proverbs 28:13. Although they hid their sin from their poor old father, for the time being at least, they did not, and could not hide it from God.

Their plan seemed to work out well enough and they were able to deceive their father, but God has said “Be sure your sin will find you out.” Numbers 32:23. And though they kept their secret for a long time, God brought it out eventually. How foolish to try to hide anything from God! And yet how many dear young people right now are trying to deceive their parents and other Christians. You may laugh, and try to “pass it off” as they say, but perhaps as you read these lines your conscience is troubling you and making you miserable. Remember what the Lord said to Saul of Tarsus, who was fighting against the accusings of his conscience; “It is hard for thee to kick against the pricks.” And it is hard! How often it is just pride that keeps us from an open confession, and we remain miserable for months and even years just like Joseph’s brothers.

Then there is another lesson for us in this sad event. Many, many years before this took place, Jacob had deceived his own father, and here his sons did the very same thing to him. How keenly he felt it as he wept and mourned, refusing to be comforted. If you, dear young reader, are deceiving your parents, have it out with the Lord and with them right now, or you too will reap it, if the Lord leaves us here. Oh the folly of trying to go on in disobedience to God and His Word. The law of the Medes and Persians might alter, but God’s Word never will. He has said, “Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” Galatians 6:7.

We spoke last week of how Joseph’s coat of many colors spoke of the many glories of Christ, and here they took and dipped it in the blood of a kid of the goats. This reminds us of how the Jews put the Lord Jesus to death, and trampled all His glory in the dust. How little Joseph’s brothers realized that they were going to have to bow before him as he had dreamed, and that Joseph was going to have a glorious place in spite of all their wicked schemes. So God has decreed that every knee shall bow to His Son (Phil. 2:10). If you bow now, dear reader, you will be saved, but if you refuse, you will bow at the great white throne, and be lost forever.

While Joseph was the rejected one, Judah fell into sin and shame, and so today the Jews, having rejected Christ, have a still darker history. The Jews, like Judah, not willing to own their own guilt, would try to place the blame on others. How wonderful amid it all to see the grace of God, for the scarlet thread on the hand of Zara reminds us of redemption—the only foundation of blessing for either Jew or Gentile.

Messages of the Love of God 7/18/1948

A Resting-Time

OUR little farmer needs a rest. He has been hard at work with his hoe in the warm sunshine, and now he needs time off for a rest and a juicy apple. He did not need any shoes, even on the rough ground. He is Daddy’s right hand man, and a wonderful helper.

Perhaps you know a comfortable spot where you like to have a rest, when you have been hard at work. It does not take long for little arms to grow weary, and even Daddy grows tired sometimes too, and he must rest. Who doesn’t?

God doesn’t! °°Hast thou not heard, . . . that the Lord, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary?- Isaiah 40:28. He never slumbers nor sleeps (Psalm 121:4), but always, day and night, is ready to listen to the cry of His children. He listens for our praise and thanksgiving too, so let us not forget to take everything, even a rest and a juicy apple, with thankful hearts from the God “who giveth us richly all things to enjoy.” 1 Tim. 6:17.

However, there are some people who cannot rest at all. Isaiah 57:20 says -The wicked are like the troubled sea, when it cannot rest.” Would it not be dreadful to be one of those who never can rest? Let us warn you, boys and girls, that there is no rest in hell.

The Lord Jesus invites you to come to Him and find rest. In Heaven, no one is ever troubled or weary, but remember that you cannot get to Heaven unless your sins are gone in the precious blood of Christ. If you would enjoy God’s rest forever, you must come to Christ now, for He says:

“COME UNTO ME, ALL YE THAT LABOR AND ARE HEAVY LADEN, AND I WILL GIVE YOU REST.” Matthew 11:28.

Messages of the Love of God 7/25/1948

The Story of a Lighthouse Part3

(Continued from July 18)

THERE was no one able to rescue poor Arthur and he perished in the sea, but he went to be with the Saviour whom he loved and served so faithfully. Were his prayers going to be answered for those wicked men who had tied up Mary’s father? We shall see later.

In the meantime, Father bent over the unconscious sailor, and wiped the wet hair from his face. Then suddenly he dropped on his knees beside him—”My son!” he exclaimed.

The other men stood by in silence. No one tried to steal any goods from the wreck. They only stood looking at the spot where Arthur had disappeared, filled with misery and shame. Then two of them stepped forward and carried the sick sailor to the nearest house. Father watched eagerly by his son until, when morning shone in the windows, they felt sure that he would live.

The storm, however, raged for three days, and it was quite impossible to reach the little girl in the lighthouse.

Every night, the bright beams shone out across the water, and every morning at sunrise, the light went out. At last the men, the very worst of them, were able to bring Father in their boat to the little girl, who flung her arms around his neck with sobs and kisses. There was joy and sorrow in the news he had to tell, and he brought her to shore with a promise that she would never, never be left in that lonely spot again.

That night the lamp was lighted by the very men who had hated it so in time past, and Mary was busy in the old home preparing a welcome for her dear long-lost brother.

The best part of the story remains to be told. At least three of those men, whose crimes were black in the sight of God and man, came with broken hearts to the Lord Jesus Christ and were freely forgiven because “Christ died for the ungodly.” Arthur’s prayers were indeed answered, though not in the way he had expected. Father spoke far more faithfully to the son whom he had not warned in times past; and Mary never, never forgot that “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1.

How about you, dear reader? Perhaps you have a dear father or mother, a brother or a sister, who loves your soul and is praying for your salvation. They may be speaking to you from time to time, pleading with you to accept Christ. God is gracious and He saved the three men in our story in answer to Arthur’s prayers, but remember there comes a time when God’s Spirit ceases to strive, and this may be your last warning. Come to Jesus today. He loves you more than anyone else, and waits to save you; but do not forget this verse from God’s Word,

“He that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.” Proverbs 29:1.

Messages of the Love of God 7/25/1948

Whatsoever Things Are Lovely

Of course we all like “lovely things,” even though our own ways are not very lovely at times! I often think of a little card which I saw many years ago which read, “Loving the unlovely.” We were the unlovely ones, and Christ, the “altogether lovely One” (S. of Sol. 5:16), loved us even though there was nothing in us to love. We might ask, “Why did He love us?” It is simply because “God is Love.” He is the source of all love.

When we know that He so loved us, surely we love Him in return. We want to please Him too, for the love of Christ is like a great magnet, and we feel its pull, its constraining power, when we are near Him. Perhaps we have all wondered at times how we can love Him more. It is certainly not by effort, for we never loved anyone by trying to love them. May we suggest something? Let us sit down quietly at His feet like Mary of old, and think of all He has done for us, of how He has put away all our sins and given us such wonderful peace in our hearts: then of the bright home He has prepared for us in glory, as well as the many temporal blessings we enjoy day by day. That would be thinking of some of the “lovely things” would it not? and surely we would feel our hearts warming up toward Him. We would feel the constraining power of that love! Let us try it today—and tomorrow—and every day, taking time for reading, meditation, and prayer. We will find it a greater blessing than we expect, as all who have tried it can testify.

Let us go a little further in thinking of these “lovely things.” Love is an active thing. It cannot lie dormant. God’s love went out to us, and now we love Him in return. But are there others to love too? Yes, there are, and how often we read those words, “Love one another.” Perhaps we might say that others are not always lovely—but neither are we, and so we have to bear with one another. Nevertheless, there is something of Christ, something lovely, in every one of His own. It may not always be seen at once, but it is there.

When someone tells us about the faults of another, we have to be careful not to be occupied with them. We should rather think about the lovely things in them, and talk about their good qualities, instead of their faults. When I was a boy I remember visiting at a farmhouse, and I went out to the well for a drink. I pumped for some time but could not get any water at all. The lady of the house, seeing my difficulty, brought out a dipper full of water from the house. She then showed me that by pouring in a little water to prime it, we were able to get out much more than we put in. It was so much better to get a refreshing drink than to walk away disappointed. And so we will find that if we bring the love of Christ to others, and talk about Him instead of fault-finding, we will not be so often disappointed in our contacts with other Christians. We will enjoy a refreshing drink together. Even if we have to pour a little love into the hearts of God’s people at times, we will be surprised what we will get in return. This is God’s way, and it works wonderfully. Let us try it more often, instead of allowing ourselves to become fault-finders. “Whatsoever things are lovely . . . think on these things.” Philippians 4:8.

Messages of the Love of God 7/25/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 39.

THEN the Ishmaelites arrived in Egypt with Joseph they sold him to Potiphar, the captain of the guard, as a slave. In spite of the unpleasant situation in which he was found, the Lord was with him. No doubt Joseph wondered why all that sorrow had been allowed to come into his life, and yet the Lord did not tell him. We too might wonder why we have certain sorrows in our lives, and may ask the reason for them, but we shall understand some day. Although Joseph did not know in this world, how wonderful to discover up there, that in all that happened to him he was a type of the Lord Jesus in His death and exaltation.

Even Potiphar saw that the Lord was with Joseph, and he put everything into his hand. How he was trusted! but just when things seemed to be going well again, Satan was laying a snare for his feet. We have a very watchful enemy who is more than a match for any of us, and who is trying to trip us up at every turn. Joseph’s heart was stedfast however, for he was walking in the fear of God. When he was tempted to sin, his answer was, “How can I do this great wickedness, and sin against God?” If we always looked at things in the light of God’s presence, we would act quite differently sometimes.

If the one who reads these lines is unsaved, let us warn you that sin must meet an awful judgment from the hand of God. We who are saved know that our sins were judged at the cross, for the Lord Jesus bore all the punishment which we deserved, but those who reject Christ will have to bear the full wrath of God against sin forever in the lake of fire—how solemn! Dear reader, come to Christ now, before the door of grace closes.

Poor Joseph had to suffer for his uprightness. Potiphar’s wife falsely accused him, and he was cast into prison. Everything seemed to go wrong for him, but we cannot fail to notice how his faith in God was unshaken by all he passed through. Sometimes we have to suffer for righteousness sake, but if so, the comfort is, “happy are ye” 1 Peter 3:14, and so there was much blessing in store for Joseph, although for the time being he had to suffer. Only a true believer can walk in the path of faith, for our hearts are sustained in it by “looking unto Jesus.”

The fortieth chapter is very interesting indeed, and shows us an important thing: God works behind the scenes. No matter where we are, God sees us, and accomplishes His own plans and purposes for the blessing of His own. God had His eye upon Joseph behind those prison walls, and He allowed two men to be cast into prison with him. The anger of Pharaoh was thus used of God, as His Word tells us, “Surely the wrath of man shall praise Thee: the remainder of wrath shalt Thou restrain.” Psalms 76:10. If someone gets angry at you, dear young reader, just take it from the Lord. He has allowed it for your good and blessing. just as Pharaoh’s anger was used to cause him to hear about Joseph. He will undertake your case if you leave it with Him, for “If God be for us, who can be against us?” Romans 8:31.

Messages of the Love of God 7/25/1948

Bible Questions for August

The Children’s Class

The Answers are to be found in Mark Chapters 1-8

Write in full the verse in which you find the words:

1. “Gain the whole world.”

2. “Go home to thy friends, and tell.”

3. “Immediately He talked with them.”

4. “Within, out of the heart of men.”

5. “And taketh away the word.”

6. “In whom I am well pleased.”

7. “I came not to call the righteous.’“

The Young People’s Class
FAITH

Many people think of faith as belief in a system of doctrines, but Scripture shows us that to have faith in God means that we believe what God has said, simply because HE has said it. (Romans 4:20-22.) We may, or may not understand, but we believe God just the same, for faith does not reason when God speaks. (Hebrews 11:1-3, 2 Cor. 10:5.)

God tells us that we are lost, helpless, and awaiting judgment. (Luke 19:10, Hebrews 9:27.) Faith believes that testimony. God then tells us that His love has provided a Saviour, the Lord Jesus, who has satisfied all His holy claims against sin. (Romans 3:21-26.) Faith says, “Lord, I believe” and we are saved. It is not a question of the amount of our faith but of the One in whom we have faith. “HE is faithful that promised.” Hebrews 10:23. Of course if there is living faith there is sure to be works of faith seen in our lives. It could not be otherwise. (James 2:22.)

After we are saved, our faith should grow, for the more we know and love the Lord, and His great love to us, the more we will trust Him. (2 Thess. 1:3.) He is surely worthy of our fullest confidence, and He delights to have it. (Hebrews 10:35.)

1. Is it possible to please God without faith? Hebrews 11,

2. Of what two things did Paul testify to the Jews and Greeks? Acts 20.

3. By what does faith work? Galatians 5.

4. How do we become the children of God? Galatians 3.

5. Does the Scripture recognize more than “one faith”? Ephesians,

6. What shield is necessary for the believer’s armor? Ephesians.

7. Are we to walk by sight or by faith? 2 Corinthians 5.

Messages of the Love of God 8/1/1948

To Our Dear Readers

Through the Lord's wonderful goodness, we are now entering the fiftieth year of the publication of our little paper, and are most thankful to Him for enabling us to carry it on through all those years.

Many who have helped in the work have now gone to be with the Saviour whom they loved and our sister Mrs. Armet who looked after it for many years, has not been able to do so for some time. How good to know that nothing done for Him will be forgotten; and each one of us who are saved can seek to serve Him in some little way. Let us say like Saul of Tarsus, "Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?' Acts 9:6.

When we speak of the fiftieth year it makes us think of the year of Jubilee in Israel's time Every fiftieth year they were to proclaim liberty to all the inhabitants of the land (see Lev. 25:10) The slaves were to be set free, and anything which had been sold was to return to its original owner. How this reminds us of the time when the Lord Jesus will reign over this earth, setting the whole scene free from bondage, and taking the kingdom Himself, for it is His by right.

When the Lord Jesus carne as the Babe o Bethlehem, this world rejected Him. He would have proclaimed liberty then, but they would not have Him. (Luke 4:18). However He is now in Heaven, and is willing to set poor sinners free from sin's bondage. If you have not ye received Him as your Saviour, will' you do so now? His coming is very near, and then the door of mercy will be shut for ever.

We hope you will all continue to answer the questions each month and encourage others to do so too. Please be prompt in mailing them.

Messages of the Love of God 5/2/1948

Bible Questions for May

The Children's Class

The Answers are to be found in Matthew Chapters 1-9.

Write in full the verse in which you find the words.

1. "Ye cannot serve God and mammon."

2. "Where thieves do not break through."

3. "Bless them that curse you."

4. "1 am not come to call the righteous."

5. "He that doeth the will of My Father."

6. "Thou shalt call His name JESUS."

7. ''This is My beloved Son."

The Young People's Class
FORGIVENESS

Our questions today deal with two of the ways in which forgiveness is looked at in the Scriptures. The answers to the first three questions show that our sins are already. forgiven as to their eternal consequences. Gcd will never again remember them as chargeable to those of us who are truly saved. The work of Christ on the cross has removed them forever, for He boro all the righteous judgment of God which we deserved, when He died on Calvary.

The answers to the last four questions would show us on the other hand, that if we as Christians do not conf ess our sins to God, or if we do not forgive others who wrong us, then God in His government will not forgive us. He often has to bring His chasteníng hand upon us in order to bring us to confession and restoration, because He loves His children too well to allow them to go on in wilfull ways.

1, What does God say of those whose iniquities are forgiven? Romans 4.

2. How many of our trespasses are forgiven? Colossians 2.

3. In Whom and through what do we have the forgiveness of sins? Colossians 1.

4, What is God faithful and just to do, when a believer confesses his sins? 1 John 1.

5, How often should we forgive someone who wrongs us? Matt. 18.

6, In what way are we to forgive one another? Ephesians 4.

7. Will God forgive us (in His govenment) if we do not forgive others? Mark 11.

Note: The names of those receiving rewards for answering the Bible Questions, will be published June l3th (D. V.)

Messages of the Love of God 5/2/1948

No Water For You

HERE is no water for you today, little girl! Someone is there before you, and there-IS mischief in his face. There, is plenty of water in the river. It flows you see without a pump or a tap, but there is no water for the little girl. The boy's jug is full to overflowing, but hers is empty, and the very set of his feet and hands are all saying, "No water for you, little girl."

What will she do? Do you suppose she will go home with an empty pitcher to a thirsty supper? Perhaps' you can guess why the little boy is teasing her, and what he is waiting for. AH she must do is say "Please," and then perhaps he will fill it and carry it home for her!

This cool sparkling water makes me think of the water of life, which God tells us about, in the last chapter in the Bible. There is plenty for all, and you do not need pump or tap, but how many people are still living in the world thirsting for this and that, and never satisfied because they will not come and drink of God's water of life. There is no one standing there to keep anyone away. There are no special words that you must say, for this invitation is from God Himself. What must we do to drink of this precious water of life? Just be willing! That is alL God's offer is for "Whosoever will." Are you willing?

Perhaps you are old enough to know that the world has many fountains full of pleasure and you would like to try them first. Perhaps you are too little to understand. But whether you are older or younger, be sure that this water of life is offered to you by God Himself, and He knows that you need it. You have no right to say "No" to Him. If you do, you will thirst for all eternity. Is it not wonderful that His offer is to "whosoever.

“'WHOSOEVER WILL, LET HIM TARE THE WATER OF LIFE FREELY." Revelation 22:17.

Messages of the Love of God 5/2/1948

Hearing By Habit

MANY years ago, if you had travelled along certain country roads, you would have found a gate right across the road. This was called a "toll-gate," and there was a man there who would open the gate .to you if you called for him.

One dark, wet midnight I was travelling along a country road when I reached one of these gates. I knocked loudly and called,

"Gate, gate!"

"Coming," said the old man.

Then I knocked again, and once more the voice answered, "Coming."

This went on for some time, till at last I jumped off my horse, opened the gate, and asked why he had kept saying "Coming," for ten minutes, but never carne?

"Who's there?" said the old man in a quiet sleepy voice, rubbing his eyes. "What do you want, sir?" Then he seemed to waken a little more, cmd said, "I beg your pardon, sir, I was asleep. I get so used to hearing folks knock that I answer 'Coming,' in my sleep, and take no more notice about it."

Perhaps the boys and girls who read this paper have never seen a "toll-gate," but let me tell you why I am writing this story. Because someone has been knocking at the door of your heart. It is Jesus. And He says "Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." Matt. 11:28.

Perhaps when you first heard of Jesus' love and of His invitation, you decided that you should come—sometime. And so you answered Jesus, "Coming." But have you come yet? We read in Hebrews 2:3, "How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation?" Dear boys and girls, don't say "Coming" anymore. Come NOW and take Him as your Saviour.

Messages of the Love of God 5/2/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 31:43-55.

How wonderfully we can trace the overruling goodness of God in caring for His poor failing child Jacob.

Surely this should strengthen our hearts, and give us to realize that the Lord never changes in His love for His people. It is good for us to look back betimes, and trace the goodness of God in our lives, and then to thank Him. Then we can raise our "Mizpah" like Jacob, and say "The Lord watch between me and thee, when we are absent one from another." We know He will watch over us and core for us all along the way. There is a word here for any of our dear young people who are leaving home to go to school, or to work. You can count on His loving care for yourself, and for your loved ones, while you are separated from them. Let us remember also that the Lord watches us, and if we are going to have His blessing we need to walk before Him.

Just a little word before we leave this touching scene. Jacob "offered sacrifice upon the mount, and called his brethren to eat bread," before they parted. How happy it would make your parents and loved ones if, before you parted and left them for your path in lífe, they had the assurance that you were truly saved—that the one Perfect Sacrifice of Christ on Calvary had put your sins away. What an immense blessing it would be, both to yourself. and to them, knowing that while you are "absent one from another" there would be a meeting day coming, and if not here on earth, it would be in the glory above.

Then too, "they did eat bread" before they parted, and surely this would bring to our minds how the early disciples met together on the first day of the week to "break bread." Acts 20:7. They did this in answer to the Lord's dying request to His own, "This do in remembrance of Me." Luke 22:19. Perhaps your parents know that you are under the shelter of the precious blood of Christ, and no doubt this has made them very happy, but have you stopped there? If you have, you are missing a great deal, for the Lord Jesus who gave Himself for you has asked His own to remember Him till He comes. (1 Cor. 11:26.) Can we deny Him the desire of His heart? You cannot tell what joy it will give the Lord, as well as to the hearts of your loved ones, to know that you are both sheltered by "the Sacrifice" and "eating the bread" (saved, and remembering the Lord in His death), until it is true in your own life. Do not do it just to please others—no never—but how much happier the parting would be if you were truly seeking to please the Lord in this, as well as in all you do. So here, after this had taken place "Laban came and kissed his sons and his daughters and blessed them: and Laban departed, and returned to his place." As far as we know from the Scriptures he never saw them again, but no doubt that what took place there at Mizpah would often come back to his mind, and comfort his heart, as well as the hearts of his children.

Lo! our Saviour never slumbers,

Ever watchful is His care;

Though we cannot boast of numbers,

In His strength secure we are.

Sweet their portion,

Who our Saviour's kindness share.

Messages of the Love of God 5/2/1948

Peter's Message

ONE summer day, Peter was playing ball with his little friends, when he heard Mother’s voice calling him from the door of his home.

“Peter,” she called, “come here. I want you.”

“I don’t want to,” answered Peter.

Mother called several times before Peter decided to leave his game and see what she wanted. He came at last, but very unwillingly.

Perhaps you have felt like that, and you can understand why Peter did not want to leave his game. You too have a nature that loves your own way and hates to be interrupted, but Peter’s answer was very, very wrong, and God must punish such disobedience.

Another day, Mother called again, and this time Peter was very willing to obey Mother’s request, for she gave him a nickel to buy an ice-cream cone. It was exactly what he wanted to do. It was an extra big one too, and he and his dog enjoyed it right to the last lick.

It is easy to obey, when we have our own way, isn’t it? But our blessed Lord Jesus became a man, and though He always wanted to please His Father, He learned what it costs to obey even when to obey means to suffer. He obeyed His Father’s will, even unto death, and now He is risen and He lives in Heaven, watching and longing to see your obedience, no matter whether it is hard or easy.

Here is a verse for you to remember each hour of every day:

“EVEN CHRIST PLEASED NOT HIMSELF; BUT, AS IT IS WRITTEN, THE REPROACHES OF THEM THAT REPROACHED THEE FELL ON ME.” Romans 15:3.

Messages of the Love of God 8/1/1948

The Ten-Stringed Instrument

IN Psalm 92:3, David speaks of praising the Lord “upon an instrument of ten strings.” We are not told the name of this musical instrument, but almost every boy and girl has “ten strings” to use. I am sure that if we really love the Lord Jesus, we shall seek to use all the “ten strings” for His praise. We sing about these ten strings at our Mission Sunday school. Can you find all ten in these two verses?

TWO little eyes to look to God,

TWO little ears to hear His Word,

TWO little feet to walk His ways,

TWO hands to work for Him all my days.

ONE little tongue to speak His truth,

ONE little heart for Him now in my youth,

Take them Lord Jesus, and let them be,

Always obedient and true to Thee.

A little girl at our Sunday school has only one eye, so she has only nine strings left, but she is seeking to use what she has for the Lord Jesus who loved her and gave Himself for her. (Galatians 2:20.) How are you using the strings you have?

Messages of the Love of God 8/1/1948

Any One That Likes

IN a little cottage in the country, an old woman lay dying. A little girl was sitting beside her bed, reading aloud the third chapter of John’s Gospel. She read on until she came to the sixteenth verse, when the old woman, who had been listening carefully, stopped her.

“Read that verse again,” she cried. The child read again those wonderful words,

“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.”

“Stop!” cried the woman. “What does ‘whosoever’ mean? Tell me what that big word means.”

The child thought hard and then told the old woman that she did not know. But the sick woman continued eagerly, “I must know what ‘whosoever’ means. Go out into the road, and ask the very first person you meet what it means.”

The child ran down the stairs and stood at the cottage gate. At last she saw a man coming and she ran to meet him.

“Please, sir, can you tell me what ‘whosoever’ means?”

The gentleman was surprised at the strange question, and he asked her why she wanted to know; but she only repeated her question, so he replied,

“It means ANY ONE THAT LIKES.” ‘ Repeating to herself over and over the answer “Any one that likes; any one that likes,” the little girl ran back up the stairs to the room. As she came in, the old woman raised herself and called,

“What is it? tell me quickly.”

“He says it means ANY ONE THAT LIKES,” replied the child.

“Read the verse again, and put that in,” said the feeble voice. The child took up the Bible and read slowly,

“For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that ANY ONE THAT LIKES to believe in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” The old woman clasped her trembling hands together, and with the tears rolling down her cheeks, she exclaimed with her weak dying voice.

“Thank God 1 like; thank God 1 like!”

Messages of the Love of God 8/1/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 40:1-19.

PHARAOH had put his chief butler and his chief baker into the prison where Joseph was, and the captain of the guard put them under his charge. One night they each had a dream. In the morning Joseph saw that they were sad, and he asked them why it was. We might say that all our dreams are not messages from the Lord, but sometimes He speaks in that way, Job 33:14-17, and we should be willing to listen to His voice, if what we dream is according to His Word. His Word is always the sure test for everything. The chief butler dreamed that there was a vine with three branches which budded, blossomed, and brought forth ripe grapes. He then took the grapes and pressed them into Pharaoh’s cup and gave him to drink. Joseph told him the meaning of his dream, but said that the interpretation was from God and not by his own wisdom. He told him that in three days he would be taken out of the prison, and brought into favor in Pharaoh’s court again.

This interpretation made the butler very happy, and it would remind us of a sinner who sees the blessing that is brought to him through Christ, the true vine. (John 15:1.) The grapes pressed into Pharaoh’s cup would tell us of all the Lord Jesus endured for us at Calvary when He bore the crushing load of our sins, shedding His precious blood to put them away for ever. When the butler put the cup into Pharaoh’s hand he was accepted, and so when a sinner approaches God through the shed blood of Christ, he is sure to be accepted. There is no other way.

Joseph then asked the butler not to forget him. He said, “Think on me when it shall be well with thee,” but we read in the last verse of our chapter, “Yet did not the chief butler remember Joseph, but forgat him.” It is sad when we forget the kindness of others, but much worse when we forget God’s kindness to us. Perhaps the one who reads these lines is a true believer, and knows that the blood of Christ has put away his sins and brought him into blessing. Now that it is well with you, do you not hear the Lord Jesus saying to you, “Remember Me”? Are you going to be like the butler and forget. Him, or are you remembering Him in His death, till He comes? We can talk about being thankful to the Lord for all He has done for us, but our lives show how much we really appreciate His love. What does your life and mine show, dear reader? Are we living for His glory day by day?

The chief baker then told his dream to Joseph also, thinking there would be a good interpretation to his as there had been to the chief butler’s. How different it was! He dreamed that he had three white baskets on his head, and in the top one there were all kinds of bake-meats for Pharaoh. Then the birds came along and ate them up. Joseph told him that within three days he would be brought out of the prison, but instead of being restored into Pharaoh’s favor he would be hung upon a tree, and the birds would eat his flesh. Perhaps the baker thought he was just as good as the butler, but they were both guilty in the eyes of Pharaoh, and it was not a question of one being better than the other but of what they presented to him in order to be brought into his favor again. We shall notice a little more about this next week, (D. V.).

Messages of the Love of God 8/1/1948

Good-bye

HERE is a large vessel, all ready to sail away across the ocean. Everyone is ready on board, and their friends have gathered on the wharf to say “Good-bye.”

Of course they cannot shout “Goodbye,” for I’m afraid they would never be heard. They cannot shake hands either, so they are holding long paper streamers instead. See them leaning over the side of the vessel watching their friends on the wharf. The friend on board throws the roll of paper to his friend below, and each one holds an end until slowly, slowly, the huge boat moves away from the wharf, and the paper stretches . . stretches . . . and breaks! Often there are tears in their eyes as the streamers break, for they will be a long way from home when they have crossed the ocean, and some of them may never meet again.

Perhaps you would rather stay at home, than sail away on that boat and leave your loved ones behind you. But don’t forget that the time MUST come when you will leave this world, and perhaps you will leave it alone, in death. Would you like to go away alone like that? Many a little boy or girl has done so, and left the loved ones weeping at home.

But there are some who leave this world in death, who will meet their loved ones again, though sad to say there are others who will not. If you, dear reader, were to die, where would you go? No doubt the vessel in our picture would stop at several ports, but those who die must go to one or the other of two places—either Heaven or Hell. If you know the Lord Jesus as your Saviour, you can say with Paul, and without a single doubt, “WE know ... that we have a building of God . . . eternal in the heavens.” 2 Con 5:1. There you will see the Saviour who died for you, as well as meeting all those who have died trusting in Him. Yes, all the loved ones who have their names written in the Lamb’s book of life will be there, and everyone will be happy forever.

That is a lovely way to leave this world, boys and girls. It is wonderful to go home to the blessed Father whom you love, and to be sure of a welcome in Heaven because the Lord Jesus Christ has made a place for you. It is blessed to know that the Saviour Himself is waiting for you, and more than that, He has promised to be with you, even in the “valley of the shadow of death,” if you are one of His redeemed children.

How will it be with you when you leave this world, dear reader? Will you go alone and afraid, leaving all your treasures behind you, or will you go gladly to the One whom you long to see, because He loves you? Remember too, that your dear ones, if they belong to Jesus, will be in Heaven too.

“AND THERE SHALL IN NO WISE ENTER INTO IT ANY... .. BUT THEY WHICH ARE WRITTEN IN THE LAMB’S BOOK OF LIFE.” Rev. 21:27.

Messages of the Love of God 8/8/1948

A Letter From Grandmother

LITTLE GORDON was sick in bed, and hearing that his grandmother was sick also he sent her a little card. She replied as follows:

My Dear Gordon:

How kind of you to send me such a cheery card! It made me feel so happy to know that you thought of me when you were so sick yourself. Now we are both alone in our bedrooms, and yet we are not alone, for although we cannot see Him, Jesus is close beside us and we can talk to Him and tell Him our troubles as well as our joys.

When I was about your age, Gordon, I always liked flowers so much, that to look at them would make me very happy, and one day I wrote a letter to God. I did not know the Lord Jesus as my Saviour—the One who died for me that I might live with Him in heaven—but one thing I did know; He made the pretty flowers and I did so want to thank Him.

So I wrote my little letter, and thanked Him for making such pretty flowers, and “Oh,” I said, “I would like You to come nearer to me.” Of course I thought the Lord Jesus was walking up and down the earth, so I threw my letter, and the wind blew it away.

In a few years’ time He did come nearer—He came to live in my heart, and has never left me since. We cannot understand, but it is true that the Lord Jesus who made the world, the pretty flowers and the lovely trees, died for you and me, dear Gordon. How we should love Him! He wants to be

a Companion and Friend through our lives, and O, what a wonderful Friend He has been to me all my life! How it makes His heart glad when we seek to please Him in all our ways. Because He is the only One that can read our hearts, we can talk to Him about everything that perhaps we would not like to tell anyone else—but He understands.

I do hope that you will soon be well and strong again.

With best love, from your loving Gramma.

It is nice for little boys to be thoughtful of others, and think of them when they are sick. Gordon’s grandmother used the opportunity to speak a word which she hoped would be for his eternal blessing. God often allows sickness in our lives to make us think about Him, for when we are well and strong we sometimes forget about the One who sends all our blessings. God’s greatest gift was the gift of His own Son who died for us at Calvary. He has told us about this in His wonderful letter—the Bible, and now, when we own that we are sinners, and receive Him as our Saviour we are saved for time and eternity.

“Today if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts.” Hebrews 4:7.

Messages of the Love of God 8/8/1948

Take the Flashlight

JACK was told by his father, one winter afternoon, to take two empty sacks to the miller in the next village. “Be sure,” he said, “to take the right turn in the road, Jack, and you had better take the flashlight as it will be quite dark when you get back.”

“Oh I can find my way back in the dark with my eyes shut. There is no fear of my taking the wrong road.”

So off Jack went with the sacks, and reached the village in good time. But on his way back it began to get dark.

Jack now wished he had brought the flashlight, but on he went. At last, however, he had to stop, as he was quite at a loss to know where he was going.

At last he heard footsteps, and, although he was quite frightened, he called out and, asked the way to his village. He was told that he had taken the wrong road, and as the other man was going in that direction, he sapn set Jack right and at last he reached home.

Perhaps you feel quite sure that you could find your house in the dark, and maybe you could. But there are a lot of people who think they can find the way to heaven in the dark. God, however, has provided a light for our feet, and if we turn to the Word of God we find, “Thy Word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Psalm 119:105. And what does the Word of God say about the way to heaven?

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

Messages of the Love of God 8/8/1948

Who'll Take Care of Us?

WHEN Jane and her two brothers got up one morning they wondered why they didn’t hear Daddy’s voice. Running to Mother the little one asked, “Where Daddy?”

“Daddy has gone away to the city for a few days—he’ll soon be back.”

Jane’s eyes filled with tears—”Who’ll take care of us?” she asked.

“Mommie will take care of you, dear,” was the answer, and for a moment she was satisfied, but she soon burst out with, “But Mommie, who’ll take care of you?”

She was quieted when Mommie told her that the Lord Jesus who loved them would care for them all.

“The eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and His ears are open unto their prayers.” 1 Peter 5:12.

Messages of the Love of God 8/8/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 40:19-23 and 41:1.

THE bakemeats which the baker had prepared for Pharaoh, in his dream, would remind us of the good works which a sinner might try to do for God. It was no doubt a good deal of hard work to prepare this tasty food and it looked lovely in the nice white basket, but it did not bring him into favor with Pharaoh. The good works of a sinner may look very fine in the eyes of others too, but God says, “ALL our righteousnesses are as filthy rags.” Isaiah 64:6. The very best that you can do, dear unsaved reader, is just like filthy rags in the presence of God. It is like Adam’s fig-leaf apron —utterly useless to make you fit to stand before Him. But why was the butler accepted while the baker was rejected? The answer is very simple. He did not bring anything of his own work. He simply put into Pharaoh’s hand that which spoke of the shed blood of Christ—that was all. Nothing else would do, and nothing else will do for you, dear reader, and let us assure you now that if you reject God’s way of salvation, there are death and judgment before you, just as there was death before the baker in spite of all his fine baking for Pharaoh. Perhaps you are saying, “Well, I’ll take my chance,” but there is no chance about it. If you reject Christ there is certain judgment before you; if you accept Him you will be saved for ever. Joseph’s word came true, and so will every Word of the Bible for it abides for ever.

Before we pass on let us make it very clear that it is not anything which we can do that saves our souls. There are so many today who depend on good works, character building, going to church, prayers, penance, and the like, but one passage of God’s Word settles the matter once and for all, “BY GRACE are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: NOT OF WORKS, lest any man should boast.” Eph. 2:8, 9. Just take your place as a sinner before God, and let the words of the little hymn be the true expression of your heart NOW,

Just as I am, without one plea,

But that Thy blood was shed for me,

And that Thou bid’st me come to Thee,

Oh! Lamb of God, I come.

Two full years rolled by and Joseph was still in prison. The butler had forgotten a11 about him, but the Lord still had His eye on His devoted servant. His dreams were soon to be fulfilled, and he was to be lord of Egypt in spite of all the hatred of his brethren, and the wrong treatment of the Egyptians. So too, it is almost two thousand years since the Lord Jesus was rejected by this world, both the Jews and Gentiles sharing in the guilt, but God is soon going to manifest Him as Lord of all. God has not forgotten what this world did to His Son, and He will see to it that He is honored when His time comes. That time is getting very near, and the world is becoming rapidly worse. Men are trying to forget about the One whom they crucified, and they are “treasuring up wrath against the day of wrath and revelation of the righteous judgment of God.” Romans 2:5.

Before God’s judgments fall, the Lord Jesus will come and take His own to glory (1 Thess. 4:16-18), and then, after seven years of terrible tribulation, the cry will be made, “The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of His Christ; and He shall reign for ever and ever.” Rev. 11:15.

Messages of the Love of God 8/8/1948

The African Boy's Question

SUPPOSE that you are travelling today away down in Africa. Suppose that you have walked many a mile along the jungle path among strange trees and vines, listening to noisy birds and chattering monkeys. Suppose that, just at sundown, you have reached a native village with queer houses made of woven grass, and you have sat down under a tree to rest.

Along comes a little black, curly-haired boy, just like the one in our picture. He stands in front of you and looks and wonders, and then he asks a very important question, “Who is Jesus?” What will you say?

Perhaps he would not be very likely to ask you that question because he might not hear you mention that precious Name at all, and he might not see you bow your head in prayer before you eat supper. Perhaps you do not know Jesus yourself, and so you wish he would not ask you.

But there are many people who have tramped the hot and dangerous jungle path to a little African village on purpose to answer that very question. And when the little colored boys and girls gather around to ask, “Who is Jesus?” the visitor is ready to answer, “He is the One who loves you, who came from Heaven to die for you. He was nailed to a cross of wood, but He did not say a word because He loved you. God His Father punished Him for our sins, and He died and was buried and rose again the third day, and now He is in Heaven, watching you.”

If our little African boy has more questions to ask about Jesus, that is all the better. We who love Him want to talk about Him all the day long. We hope that the little colored boy will learn to love Him too, for Jesus loves all the children, red or yellow, black or white! Do you love Him? If we ask, “Who is Jesus?”, can you say, “He is my precious Saviour?”

“UNTO YOU THEREFORE WHICH BELIEVE HE IS PRECIOUS.” I Peter 2:7.

Messages of the Love of God 8/15/1948

Love Your Enemies

Four young readers will take their Bibles and •turn to Matthew 5:44, they will see that the Lord. Jesus said, “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you.” “But,” you say, “That is a very hard verse to put into practice. I do not feel like being kind to those who are unkind to me.” Quite true, for our old fallen nature wants to do the opposite to what God’s Word tells us. Shall I tell you a story of one man who loved his enemy?

A missionary was preaching in the street of a village in India telling the people the Lord Jesus loved them and died on the cross to put away their sin, Eagerly they crowded around to listen,

This was too good to be true! They only knew of idols, and believed that the idols would hurt them, but that God loved and cared for them they had never heard. As the story of God’s love and grace was told out, a man who hated the name of the Lord Jesus drew near, and with a great club in his hand, struck at the missionary intending to kill him, But God had more work for His servant to do. The blow fell on his shoulder instead of his head, and, although knocked to the ground, he was able to get up again.

The crowd, enraged at the attack on one who was so kind to them, seized the would-be murderer and cried to the missionary, “Beat him! Beat him!”

He answered, “How can I beat him when my Saviour tells me to love my enemies?”

“Then take him to the magistrate,” they said.

Again the missionary replied, “How can I do that when my Saviour tells me to forgive my enemies?”

“What shall we do with him then?” they asked.

The missionary stepped over to the man and said to him, “The Lord Jesus died for each one of us, and bore the punishment of our sin on the cross when we were His enemies, and now He is offering forgiveness of sins to all who will believe on Him. Because the Lord Jesus has forgiven me my sin against Him, I now forgive you for striking me.” Then he said to the crowd, “Let him go.”

The man was only too glad to escape without injury and fled from the spot.

Many of those who had seen the kindness of the missionary were touched by such forgiveness, and accepted the Lord Jesus as their Saviour.

Dear reader, has your heart been touched by the thought that the Lord Jesus died for you when you were His enemy? Do you know that God loves you and is now offering salvation full and free without money and without price? Will you right now, just as you are, own yourself a sinner in the sight of God and accept Jesus as your Saviour? It is only in this way that you could be with Him in Heaven throughout the endless ages of eternity, and He will also help you to act toward others in love, in some small measure as the Lord Jesus has to us.

“Be ye kind one to another, tender hearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.” Ephesians 4:32.

Messages of the Love of God 8/15/1948

Paul Michael

NEAR the city of Toronto in a very beautiful home, live Mr. and Mrs. Hamilton—but, though they have such a grand house with suchnan abundance of lovely things in it, still there was, until quite recently, something missing—something that they greatly desired but did not possess. Can you guess what it was? “A little child,” I hear someone say. Yes, they had no child and this made both their hearts and their home seem quite empty.

Not long ago a dear baby boy came into the world—a helpless weak little child just as all newborn babies are. His own father and mother did not want him—they had no home for him nor any of the precious things mothers and fathers provide for their babies. No, the poor little mite just did not have anything at all!

Now Mr. and Mrs. Hamilton were told about the little stranger, and right away they said they would take him, As soon as they were quite sure they could have the little lad they set about preparing to receive him. Oh, what wonderful things they got for him! A beautiful crib with the whitest sheets and softest, wooliest blankets, a bath all his own, a grand carriage, and such an array of lovely soft baby clothes! I wish you could see his pretty room with the huge pink and white Teddy Bear sitting on the bed! It is a picture! Then Mother and Daddy Hamilton chose and gave to the nameless baby the fine name that you see at the head of this story—”Paul Michael.” Now he is their very own dear, little son and they love him very, very tenderly and care for him as lovingly as if he had been born into their family.

Now, what did Paul Michael do to earn or deserve all this love and favour? Not one thing—why, of course, he could not do anything, could he: But here he is enjoying all that these loving parents can give him and yet it has all been bestowed on him freely, “without money and without price.”

This little child’s story reminds one of the grace and love of God to poor sinners. In Romans 5 we are told, “When we were yet without strength, in due time, Christ died for the ungodly,” and again, in Romans 6, “the gift of God is eternal life through. Jesus Christ our Lord.” All that we, as sinners, need do is believe that this loving favour is for us and accept and enjoy all the “unsearchable riches” of Christ as sons and heirs of God. Just as baby Paul Michael is enjoying, without question, all that his new parents are showering upon him, so may we by faith, enter into all the blessings God provides for those who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ as their Saviour, for, “By grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.” Eph. 2:8.

Messages of the Love of God 8/15/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 41:2-32.

PHARAOH dreamed that he saw seven well-fed cows feeding in a meadow. Then soon after, he saw seven other thin ones come up out of the river and they ate up the fat ones. Then he had another dream in which he saw seven good full ears of corn, followed by seven thin ears which sprang up and devoured the full ones. He was greatly troubled by the dreams and he asked the wise men of Egypt to interpret them for him. These wise men were, no doubt, very useful to him in explaining other things, but they could not understand the ways of God. It is always so, for the Bible says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom.” Proverbs 9:10. If a man does not have the fear of God in his heart—if he is not truly born again,—we cannot expect him to understand the Bible, or the things of God. “The natural man (or the unsaved boy or girl) receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” 1 Cor. 2:14.

Remember this at school, dear boys and girls. You may have many clever teachers and student friends, but do not expect them to explain or understand the Bible if they are not saved. If they tell you that some of the things in the Bible are foolish and untrue, do not be surprised. Their very ignorance about divine things is only a fresh proof of the truth of God’s Word which tells us that they CANNOT understand it until they are saved. Never allow anyone to disturb your confidence in the Bible. If the teacher tells you something contrary to it, do not believe him. True science will always prove the Bible to be true, but many of the things taught in schools today are only theories—or suppositions. You may not always understand the Bible, but always believe it. It is God’s Word, and God cannot lie.

When the wise men were unable to explain Pharaoh’s dream, then the butler remembered his mistake. He had forgotten Joseph. A Christian may drift away from the Lord, but, like the butler, he is reminded of his fault sooner or later, and brought back. The butler re. membered how Joseph’s word had come true. Yes, what Joseph said was by the Word of the Lord and so it must come true.

Then Pharaoh called for Joseph to tell him the meaning of his dream. Joseph, however, would not take any honor to himself, but said, “It is not in me; God will give Pharaoh an answer of peace.” Honor belongs to God, and we should always, like Joseph, make sure that He is given all the glory. Sometimes the world would like to honor us, but we have to watch against anything that exalts man instead of God.

Joseph then began to tell Pharaoh the meaning of what he had dreamed. There were to be seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine.

Let us just give a little practical word here. Some of our young readers have good jobs, and plenty of money, but remember it will not always be that way. If the Lord does not come, there will be a time of shortage, and we should not be wasteful with what we have. If we use it for the Lord, He will repay us well, but if we are wasteful and extravagant of food, clothes, and other things, there will be a time of need when we shall wish we had been more careful.

Messages of the Love of God 8/15/1948

The House On The Wall

WHAT a queer place to build a house—right on top of a stone wall! You feel much safer, I’m sure, when you go to sleep in a house that is solidly built on the ground.

A long time ago, a lady named Rahab lived in a house built on top of the wall of the city of Jericho. Inside the city lived a great many people in good strong houses, but no house was safe except Rahab’s. Shall I tell you why?

God had sent the children of Israel to destroy that great city because the people in it were wicked and sinners before the Lord. When two men of Israel were sent to look at the city, Rahab believed God’s message, and hid the two messengers from the men of Jericho who wanted to kill them. Then she wanted to send them away across the mountains to the camp of Israel, but you see it is not easy to walk out and away from a house like that, is it? So she lowered them over the wall by long scarlet rope. They told her to hang this scarlet line in her window, so that everyone in her, house would be safe when they came back to destroy the city.

Now do you see what made Rahab’s house so safe? God had said that Jericho must be destroyed because the people were sinners. Rahab was a sinner, but she believed God and she put the scarlet line in the window. That made the difference!

You know, my reader, God has said that “the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.” 2 Peter 3:10. Your house may be ever so strong and solid, but that will not save you from God’s judgment. What will save you? Something scarlet, like the line in Rahab’s window. Yes, the blood of Christ. The blood which flowed from His side after He had suffered and died for our sins can save you from God’s judgment, if you will believe God’s Word as Rahab did.

The children of Israel came to fight against Jericho after this. The gates were tightly shut and the wall was strong and high, but God made the wall fall down flat, and everyone inside the city was killed. But everyone in Rahab’s house was saved because of the scarlet line in the window.

Would you like to be saved too, before God destroys this world in which you live? Then put your trust in the precious blood of Christ, for you are a sinner, and nothing else can save you from the judgment your sins deserve.

“THERE IS NONE OTHER NAME UNDER HEAVEN GIVEN AMONG MEN, WHEREBY WE MUST BE SAVED.” Arts 4:12.

Messages of the Love of God 8/22/1948

What Will Become Of My Soul?

THE sun shone brightly down on a quiet little town where everything looked bright and cheerful. But there were sad hearts in that town. A Sunday school teacher was hurrying to the bedside of dear little Mary whom she loved dearly, As she entered the home, the father met her, weeping, and said,

“Oh, Mrs. Watson, our little girl is dying, and we cannot give her up.”

She followed the father into Mary’s room, and saw at once that the little life was nearly over.

In a tone that frightened everyone in the room, Mary cried:

“Oh, Mrs. Watson, I am dying, and what will become of my soul?” Her teacher held her cold wasted hands and pointed her to Jesus, the Saviour of sinners. In few words and simple, she told her of God’s love in sending His Son to die for sinners. Mary listened eagerly.

“Oh,” she said, “these things, and the eternal world are so dark to me.”

Her teacher wept and prayed with her, but in a short time Mary became unconscious and could neither hear nor speak. Soon the little spirit left the body, and Mary was gone. Mary’s father and mother were both Christians and she had gone regularly to Sunday school, but her young heart was wayward, and she had always put the thought of eternity very far from her. She intended to be saved some time, but death came suddenly and found her without Christ,

May this sad story be a warning to the reader of this paper. Do you intend to be saved some day? Of course you do, But if you faced death right now would it be all dark to you?

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

Messages of the Love of God 8/22/1948

The Little Japanese Girl

Some years ago, a Japanese criminal was sentenced to be executed. God, who does not wish the death of the sinner, had purposes of blessing for him.

Whom do you think God used to lead this poor man to the Saviour? It was an eleven-year-old Japanese girl! Her parents had been heathen, but were saved through faith in Christ, and through her parents she had heard and believed the gospel, and now she wanted to do something for her Saviour.

When she heard of the sentence of this poor man, she first prayed for his soul; but she was not satisfied with this, but begged a tract from her parents, to send to the governor of the prison. Her father gave her a gospel tract, printed in Japanese, which she took to the prison and asked that it be given to the condemned man. This touched the poor man’s heart, and he read it and was deeply interested. Shortly after, the little girl received a letter from the prisoner. He wrote:

“Of the 50 millions of Japanese, you are the only one who thought of my soul, and now I am saved,” and then he went on to tell how God had spoken to him through that tract, and that he had accepted God’s offer of forgiveness through the Lord Jesus.

Perhaps the reader of this paper is a young Christian. Should we not let others know the glad tidings that make us so happy? We can hand out, and mail out, tracts, asking the Lord to bless them.

“Be ye stedfast, 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 the Love of God 8/22/1948

Are You Saved?

WELL, Jimmy, are you saved?” Jimmy was just coming out of the gospel meeting and we stopped for a chat on the stairs.

“Yes,” he replied, “I am sure now that Jesus died for me. I used to think I was all right because father and mother were saved, but I found out that I was all wrong. But now I am sure that Jesus bore all my sins away.”

Perhaps we might wonder why the Lord Jesus does not take us to heaven as soon as we are saved? It is because He wants us to tell others of His love. We ought not to keep it to ourselves, you know.

Earnestly we would ask you, dear young reader, Are you saved? Can you say, “Jesus has washed all my sins away in His own precious blood?”

“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Cor. 6:2.

Messages of the Love of God 8/22/1948

God's Family

God has a family on earth

Of daughters and of sons;

His Holy Spirit gave them birth,

They are His little ones.

He watches over them for good,

And hears their feeblest cries;

He gives them shelter, clothes and food,

Yea, all their wants supplies.

He knows their weak and tender frame,

Pities their grief and fears;

And calls them every one by name,

And wipes away their tears.

To what the Lamb of God has done

They all their blessings owe;

‘Tis through the work of His dear Son

That God can bless them so.

“Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God.” I John 3:1.

Messages of the Love of God 8/22/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 41:33-57.

JOSEPH told Pharaoh that the extra corn which could not be eaten during the years of plenty should be laid up in storehouses, ready to use during the years of famine which were to follow. God was working in His own way to bring Joseph’s brothers to confess their guilt and fulfill Joseph’s dreams, as well as to provide the needed food to keep people from starvation.

Pharaoh saw at once that this plan was an excellent one, and he honored Joseph greatly, making him ruler over all Egypt. Joseph was driven through the streets of the city in a chariot, and everyone was forced to “bow the knee” to him. How wonderfully God rewarded him for all he had endured, for we may be sure He never fails to honor those who honor Him. (1 Sam. 2:30.) This exalted place given to Joseph was a shadow of the place which the Lord Jesus will have in a soon-coming day. He was obedient unto death, and God will give Him the very highest place of honor, and all will be forced to bow the knee to Him owning Him as Lord. (Phil. 2:8-11.) Those who own Him as their Lord now are saved. Have you confessed Him as your Lord and Saviour, dear reader?

Pharaoh called Joseph Zaphnathpaaneah, which means a revealer of secrets, and then he gave him a Gentile woman to be his wife. This reminds us of God’s great secret, hidden down through the ages, which has now been revealed. It was hidden in God (Eph. 3:9) until Christ, like Joseph, was rejected by His brethren (the Jews). Then the secret came out, and we find it in Eph. 3:3-6. The Gentiles are now being brought in as part of the one body, and Christ is going to have a bride. Most of our young readers are Gentiles, but perhaps some are Jews, and we might say that although God is particularly working among the Gentiles, still the message is to “whosoever will.” When anyone believes the gospel he ceases to be either a Jew or a Gentile in the eyes of God, and becomes part of the church of God which is composed of all true believers. When the last one is saved, the body of Christ (the church) will be completed, and the Lord will come and take His own to heaven. The church is the bride of Christ, and the marriage will take place in heaven (Rev. 19:7) between the time He comes for His own (1 Thess. 4:16, 17) and the time (at least seven years later) when He comes back with them to set up His kingdom on earth. (Jude 14).

At last the time of famine came. “Where can we get bread to eat?” was the question everywhere. They went to Pharaoh, but he said, “Go to Joseph.” Surely everyone who is unsaved is in need of Christ, the bread of life, and we would send out a similar message, “Go to Jesus.” He will meet all your need, just as Joseph was able to meet the need of those starving ones. There was plenty for all who came to him from every land, but they had to pay for their corn, whereas the gospel is free. You can “Buy . . . without money and without price.” Isaiah 55:1. Come now, and find food for your hungry soul, dear reader. The Lord Jesus is waiting to bless and save you today.

Messages of the Love of God 8/22/1948

Six Little Kittens

One day in summer, six little kittens climbed up the steps in the barn. Half way up to the top, it was such a comfortable spot that they sat down to rest. It was safe from the dog who might worry them down below, and it was pleasant in the afternoon sunshine. You know kittens do love to be warm.

So there they sat, never thinking that you would be looking at their picture today and learning a lesson from them. You see, they chose to stay in the sunshine, and you also should get into the sunshine of God’s love. Just think He loves you, how He has blessed you today, and remember that He gave the very best gift that He could give in order to bless you forever. Do you know what His best gift was? It was His only begotten Son, the Lord Jesus, whom He gave to die for you on Calvary’s cross. Surely God’s love is better than sunshine.

All afternoon the six little kittens sat in the sunshine, and they never said a word of thanks when the sun went down and the barn grew cool. Do you thank God for His wonderful love? He wants you to thank Him. He wants you to see that His love never “sets” and disappears as the sun does, but you may enjoy His love all the time. Why should you stay away from HI; any longer? The cares of this poor world will worry you, and its shadows chill you if you go on without the Lord Jesus as your Saviour.

Even though you are very little, turn to our God and Father, just as the kittens turned to the sunshine. Think how He loves you. Ask Him to save you and take care of you. He wants to warm and comfort your little heart today, and give you a home in heaven forever.

“I HAVE LOVED YOU, SAITH THE LORD.” Malachi 1:2.

Messages of the Love of God 8/29/1948

A Sunbeam

DURING the hot summer months, little Willie was visiting his uncle in the country. At noon one day, Willie happened to notice a sunbeam shining through a dark room.

“What is this?” he asked, “Is it smoke?”

“No,” said his uncle, “it is dust.”

“Dust?” said Willie in great surprise, ‘Where does the dust come from, and is the whole room dusty like this?”

“Yes, the whole room is full of dust, but it only shows up in the sunlight.”

So it is with the light from God. By His Word and His Spirit He shows up the sin-dust of our hearts, telling us how unclean we are.

“You see, Willie, your heart is un. clean. You have found this out, have you not?”

“Yes, uncle, I surely have.”

“But thanks be to God, although He sees all the sin of our hearts, His word tells us, The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin’ “. I John 1:7.

Messages of the Love of God 8/29/1948

I Want To Earn It

AS mother was washing the dishes one day, four-year. old Johnnie appeared in the doorway and held out his hand. He opened it to show a few coins—”This is all the money I have.”

Mother smiled at him, and after a bit he said, “I want to earn this money.”

“But Daddy gave it to you, John. Why do you want to earn it?”

“Oh! I just want to,” he said vaguely, “I want to earn it.”

“Well you see, son, Daddy wanted, you to have it as a gift. It’s already yours, so you could not earn it—it has been given to you.”

We may smile at little Johnnie, but I wonder how many of my readers are seeking to “earn” the gift that God offers, which is “without money and without price?” Are you thinking that good works or something you can do will gain eternal life for you? We read in Eph. 2:8, 9, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not o: yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast.”

How can you earn it when it’s a gift–and a gift from God Himself? “The GIFT of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Rom. 6:23.

Receive it now from His loving hand and thank Him for it.

Messages of the Love of God 8/29/1948

Whatsoever Things Are Of Good Report

ANY boy or girl while attending school likes to bring home a good report, and needless to say, the parents like to see one too. If there are poor marks in some subject, they will probably mention them to their child but seldom will they speak of them to others. If they do, they will not emphasize them. They love their children, and want to say all the good they can about them, when speaking to those outside the family.

God loves His children too, much more than any earthly father. He would not allow Balaam to curse the children of Israel, in spite of all their sin and failure through the desert. They were His people, and He often rebuked them, and dealt with them Himself, but He would not allow Balaam or anyone else to speak evil of them.

Satan is “the accuser of our brethren,” Rev. 12:10, and when we start accusing God’s children we are doing the enemy’s work. Our verse tells us, “Whatsoever things are of good report . , . think on these things.” Phil. 4:8, We should love all the children of God, for we who are saved all belong to the same family, and how can we make their failures the subject of our conversation, especially before the unsaved? It is very defiling to ourselves, as well as to all who hear us, and above all it is most displeasing to the Lord. There is always something nice which we can talk about, and what a sheer it is to meet someone who has a good report to tell.

Of course there are times when we should not turn a deaf ear to an evil report, though we should never find any pleasure in hearing it. Eli heard an evil report about his sons, but because he did not restrain them in their wicked ways, God had to punish him. If it is necessary to look into an evil report, we should do it with sorrow because the glory of God demands it, never because we find any pleasure in it. Love would always much rather think and speak about the good reports which we hear about other Christians than mention their failures.

When Paul thought of the dear Thessalonian believers, there were many nice things which he could remember about them. No doubt they had their failures, but he loved to think about what was of good report, and so he wrote, “Remembering without ceasing your work of faith, and labor of love, and patience of hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Thess. 1:3. How happy it must have made them, to know that he remembered such nice things about them, and how the dear apostle enjoyed thinking about their devotedness too. Let us do the same, and find how much happier it makes us, and others as well.

John could say, “Demetrius hath good report of all men.” 3 John 12. May we, dear young people, be careful to maintain a testimony to God’s glory before others, and not give occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully. Sometimes, when we would like to give a good report of some dear Christian, we have to hang our heads and give our report with sorrow.

The great thing for us to remember, then, is that we are to be occupied with that which is good, for the Word tells us, “I would have you wise unto that which is good, and simple concerning evil.” Romans 16:19.

Messages of the Love of God 8/29/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 42:1-24.

FAR away in the land of Canaan there was a starving family, and the message reached them that there was corn in Egypt.

Jacob their father then sent his sons down to buy some food, and after a long, tiresome journey they arrived in the land. They went to Joseph, who was then the governor, and bowed down to him with their faces to the earth. They did not, however, know that it was Joseph their brother for he did not make himself known to them. He talked to them in the Egyptian language and began at once to question them as to where they came from, and about their father, their brother, and other things. We know that in a similar way, when the Lord Jesus returns to Jerusalem to put down His enemies, the Jews will not know Him, and they will ask, “What are these wounds in thine hands?” Zech. 13:6. He will then reveal Himself to them, as Joseph did to his brothers a little later, and they will mourn in repentance because of their great sin in rejecting and crucifying Him.

Joseph was trying on this occasion to bring his brothers to repentance, and he spoke roughly to them, and so we know that the Jews will have to pass through a terrible time of tribulation before they finally confess their sin. The Lord will indeed have to “deal roughly” with them during those seven years of Jacob’s trouble. (Jer. 30:7.)

Joseph accused them of being spies, and said they had come to see the barrenness of the land. They replied saying that they were true men. We know however that they were not true men, for they had lied to their father when they sold Joseph. He then put them all in prison for three days. After that he said that he would keep one of them, their brother Simeon, and let the rest go back home to their father with the necessary corn which they had come to buy. The next time they came they were to bring their younger brother Benjamin, and in this way Joseph said he would prove the truth of their story. Since Joseph was speaking to them through an interpreter, they did not know he could understand what they were saying as they talked among themselves about their guilt in having sold Joseph to the Ishmaelites long ago, It is always well to remember that God hears everything we say, and knows all about us. Think of the many years during which Joseph’s brothers had carried a bad conscience, and how unhappy it made them. A bad conscience is a miserable companion, isn’t it?

In spite of all their sin Joseph loved his brothers and wept secretly for them. How this reminds us of the Lord Jesus weeping over Jerusalem. (Luke 19:41.) He longed to bless those sinful people but they would not have Him. If you are unsaved, dear reader, God is grieved over your rejection of Christ, and waits to save you. Just as Joseph bound Simeon and kept him in prison to make sure that his brothers would all return, so the Lord often brings sorrow into people’s lives in order to make them turn to Him in true repentance. When Simeon’s brothers did come back, how wonderfully Joseph blessed them, and when a sinner turns to the Lord in repentance, He blesses him abundantly too, both for time and eternity.” “The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23.

Messages of the Love of God 8/29/1948

Bible Questions for September

The Children’s Class

Each of the following quotations is a part of a verse in Mark, chapters 9-16.

When you have found them, write out each of the seven verses in full. Mark down the chapter and verse also.

1. “Lest ye enter into temptation.”

2. “Gast in all that she had.”

3. “Go ye into all the world.”

4. “Because ye belong to Christ.”

5. “To give His life a ransom for many.”

6. “My words shall not pass away.”

7. “This man was the Son of God.”

The Young People’s Class
HOPE

Because of the present use of the word “hope,” we generally think of it as expressing a doubt. It is not, however, used in this way in the Scriptures. It means something which we look forward to with confidence, because of the One in whom we hope. The Lord Jesus Christ is our Hope. (1 Tim. 1:1.) It is like an anchor to the soul, both sure and steadfast (Hebrews 6:19) because He Cal rover fail. We who believe do not hope for salvation: we are saved and know it. (Romans 10:9.) We do not hope to have everlasting life, for God says we have it. (John 3:16.)

We do, however, have a hope for the future—one about which we have no doubt whatsoever, but rather can rejoice about it. (Romans 5:2.) The Bible speaks of the Lord’s coming as our hope, (Titus 2:13.) because by that wondrous event, we shall be brought into the Father’s house where we shall enjoy for ever all that is to be ours, through Christ’s finished work.

1. With what will the God of hope fill us? Romans 15.

2. Why have the things of the past been written down for us in God’s Word? Romans 15.

3. Has the unbeliever any hope? Ephesians 2,

4. In Whom do we hope? 1 Peter 1.

5. What effect should the hope of Christ’s coming have upon our lives? 1 John.

6. What should we be ready to do? 1 Peter 3.

7. Where is the believer’s hope laid up for him? Colossians 1.

Messages of the Love of God 9/5/1948

The Vegetable Doll

WHAT has our little curly-head been doing?

Well, you see, she just stooped down by the basket of vegetables that Father had brought in from the garden, and she made a vegetable doll. A big round onion is the head, with a few little roots for hair. The biggest carrot will do for the body, and long thin carrots for arms and legs. Little sharp sticks will hold it all together, and one of Mother’s rags will dress it all up with a hood and a cape. Now, if she handles it carefully, our little curly-head has quite a good dolly, don’t you think?

This little girl made her dolly no doubt, but who made the vegetables? God did. What did He make them out of? He made them grow out of the ground. Perhaps you have helped to put a few little specks of seed into the ground, and after a while came a big red beet or a long green cucumber or a big yellow pumpkin. They weren’t there before. Where did they come from? God made them grow out of the tiny seed which you put in the ground —the very ground that clings to your shoes and your hands when you work in the garden. It is quite impossible for any man to make even one vegetable, but God makes them for us. Have you ever stopped to thank Him, dear reader?

See our little curly-head hugging her vegetable doll. She is a chubby little girl with dimples where her knuckles ought to be. Who made that curly-head? God did. He formed her out of the dust of the ground. Then, since God made her, she belongs to Him, doesn’t she? If you and I grow to be old, we shall probably lose our health and strength, and perhaps our teeth and hair too, and even our eyesight. God wants us to acknowledge that we belong to Him now. Why should we wait until we are old. God is our Creator, He made us and we belong to Him, every inch of us, from the top of our busy little heads to the tip of our busy little feet. Then let us not forget Him while we are young. He made us for His own glory, but we have all sinned and come short of that glory. If you take the Lord Jesus as your Saviour, dear young reader, He will cleanse you from all your sins and fit you to be with Him in the glory above. He will fill you with joy, and satisfy your heart with His love but He has solemnly warned us that hell will be the eternal portion of those who forget God. Do not forget Him any longer, but accept the Lord Jesus as your Saviour to-day.

“REMEMBER NOW THY CREATOR IN THE DAYS OF THY YOUTH.” Eccl. 12:1.

Messages of the Love of God 9/5/1948

A Gift For You

MR. JOHNSTON was walking one day through a part of the town which he had never visited before. He noticed a very rough-locking little building, set apart from all the other homes, and in such need of repair that he thought at first it must be empty. But as he came nearer he noticed an old woman and her daughter eating their evening meal.

Mr. Johnston was a Christian man, and he thought at once that it might be a good chance to make things a little more comfortable for these suffering people. The very next day he bought a pair of good warm blankets and took them right over to the little home. As he walked along, he pictured the delight of the couple as they received his gift.

The old woman came to the door, but when she saw him, she only shook her head and frowned. He then held up his parcel, and started to tell her of his gift, but she shouted, “Begone, I don’t want to buy any of your goods,” and slammed the door.

“My good woman,” said Mr. Johnston as he again opened the door, “I do not want to sell them.”

“Begone about your business,” was the only reply.

By this time he realized that she was stone deaf. But still he was anxious that they should have the gift so he decided to open his parcel and hoped she would understand. When the old lady saw the beautiful blankets, she said, “I have told you I don’t want them.”

What more could he do? He took one blanket, threw it around the poor old lady, and then stepped back and smiled at her.

The meaning began to dawn upon her. Looking at him she asked timidly, “For me?”

He nodded his head and smiled. “A gift?” she asked.

Again he nodded.

“A gift for me!” she repeated to herself. She stroked it with her hand and felt its warmth, and then she cried for joy. She grasped Mr. Johnston’s kind hand and thanked him with all her heart.

Are your ears deaf to the love and to the gift of God?

Do you think that God is asking something from you? No, He is offering you salvation as a gift, for His Word says, “The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23.

Messages of the Love of God 9/5/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 42:25-38 and 43:1-7.

DSEPH was rich. He did not need the money which his brothers had brought to buy food. He told his servants to fill their sacks with corn and he also provided all the food they needed for their journey. Then they started out for Canaan.

At night they stopped at the inn, and when they opened their sacks what do you think they found in them? Every one of them found that his money had been put in the top of his sack. They could not understand it. Why should their money be given back to them? It was just because Joseph loved them, even though they did not know him, nor the kindness of his heart. If you are unsaved, dear young reader, you do not know the heart of God. If you knew His great love, you could not go on one day longer without Him. The love of God is far greater than Joseph’s love for his brothers, but like them, you do not realize how He longs to bless you. God’s love has been proven in the gift of His beloved Son who died for sinners. He now offers eternal life as a free gift to “whosoever will.”

Upon their arrival in. Canaan, they told their father about all that had happened. Poor Jacob was greatly troubled when he heard that the lord of Egypt (Joseph) had kept Simeon, and worse still that he had said they must bring Benjamin down before they could get any more corn. Jacob did not know the blessing which was in store for him and his family, but only thought of how hard it would be to part with his much-loved son Benjamin. Do you feel some burden like this pressing on you, dear Christian? Perhaps a dark cloud has come into your life, and you are wondering why the Lord has allowed it just as Jacob did. If Jacob had only known the future he would not have worried at all, but God did not tell him. He wanted his servant to walk by faith, not sight. Faith believes that God knows the future perfectly, and here in His perfect wisdom He was working things out for the best in Jacob’s life. How good to trust Him! He knows your future and mine too. Let us learn then to trust Him even when the way seems dark and uncertain, and say like one of old, “My Father, Thou art the Guide of my youth.”

A good many months rolled by, and again Joseph’s father and brothers felt the need of corn from Egypt. Poor old Jacob had put off the decision to send Benjamin there for a long time, but it had to come, for when God begins to work He will not give in. He continues the trial until the lesson is learned, Joseph had definitely told his brothers that he would not see them again unless they brought Benjamin with them. Jacob began to look at “second causes”, forgetting that the first cause of all that had happened, was that the Lord had allowed it. He asked his sons why they had told the lord of Egypt that they had another brother. How often we too, ask the “why” and “wherefore” of things, only to learn that God does them His own way, and He brings us to the point where we have to say like David, “My times are in Thy hand.” Psalm 31:15.

Our times are in Thy hand,

Father we wish them there;

Our life, our soul, our all, we leave

Entirely to Thy care.

Our times are in Thy hand,

Why should we doubt or fear?

A Father’s hand will never cause

His child a needless tear.

Ornaments

HERE we have four girls who have dressed up to have their pictures taken. It seems that they have put on every bit of lace and trimmings and rings and bracelets and earrings that they can find! The two girls in the center have succeeded best, but they do not wear the happiest faces do they? The little girl on the left has a happy little face, but if you speak to her she will pop out of sight behind her sister. The girl on the right has a smile for you, and a little doll to show you if you want to make friends.

Which of the girls do you like best? Perhaps you will pick the one who wears the fewest ornaments, for all these outside ornaments do not make people happy, do they? There is one ornament the Lord wants the girls who love Him to wear. You will find it in 1 Peter 3:3. “The ornament of a meek and quiet spirit . . . is in the sight of God of great price.” This ornament will please God, and it will make the little wearer happy too, for it will save many an ugly frown and fit of temper. The only way you can have such an ornament as this to wear, is to first take the Lord Jesus as your own precious Saviour. Then when your heart has been washed in His precious blood, you can ask Him to help you to please Him in everything you do.

Boys and girls and grown-ups too who fear the Lord, who think upon HiS; Name and speak to others about Him, are God’s jewels which He will some day claim as His own. He calls them jewels because they are precious in His sight. Are you one of God’s precious jewels?

“THEY SHALL BE MINE, SAITH THE LORD OF HOSTS, IN THAT DAY WHEN I MAKE UP MY JEWELS.” Malachi 3:17

Messages of the Love of God 9/12/1948

It Looked Safe, But It Wasn't

ONE day a man was being taken through the tan yard of a tannery. This section of the factory is filled with large vats full of tanning fluid, about six feet square and the same in depth. Only a narrow plank runs between these vats on which the men can walk. Now tan, when left to stand for a period of time, gets covered with a white scum which has the appearance of cement. The man in our story stopped to examine something in which he was interested, and when he looked up, his guide was turning a corner some distance ahead of him. He wanted to catch up to him in a hurry, and so, leaving the safety of the planks, he went to take a short-cut across what he thought was cement. Foolish man! it looked safe, but it wasn’t. Of course he went in, right over his head in the dirty tan. What a sight he was when he got out with his clothes all ruined. Children, that man left the right way, to go in what appeared to be just as safe a path, but what a result!

Surely this incident brings to mind that solemn verse in God’s Word, “There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death.” Prov. 16:25. What is the end, dear young reader, of the path you are treading? Where will you spend eternity? I hear you say, “I do not know: I never thought about it.” Well then you are just like the man we have been hearing about. You are walking down a path, and you do not know where it will end. I am going to give you another verse which will tell you where your path will end. “He that believeth on Him [the Lord Jesus] is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the Name of the only begotten Son of God.” John 3:18. Trust in the Lord Jesus now and you will know that you are on the way to heaven, but let us warn you that if you do not trust in Him as your Saviour, you are on your way to a lost eternity in the lake of fire. Which way are you going: the way that SEEMS right, but ends in judgment; or God’s way through the atoning work of His Son, which IS right, and ends in glory.

Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me.” John 14:6.

Messages of the Love of God 9/12/1948

The French Text

A GENTLEMAN and a little girl stood in the ward of a large hospital. The scenes of suffering were no strange sight to them, for they often went to visit these sick folk to bring them words of comfort and cheer.

“Who is that man in the last bed?” asked the man of the nurse. “It is a new face, and he looks so lonely.”

“Yes, sir,” the nurse answered, “he is a French sailor who met with a fearful accident a few days ago. They brought him here, but he understands only a word or two of English. His ship has sailed, and he has no one to speak to him in his own language. I sometimes listen to him muttering to himself, but of course I do not understand. Perhaps your little girl would not mind speaking in French to him. I am sure it would please him.”

The man looked down at his little girl who was holding his hand.

“Will you go, Anna, and speak to the poor fellow? You could speak a few words to him in French.”

“Oh, father! I know so little French, but perhaps I might try to repeat my French text.”

She walked very quietly over to the bed. She paused. What if he were dying? The face was very deathlike, and he lay there very still. But no; the sound of footsteps, soft and quiet though they were, had caught his ear; the weary eyes opened, and he looked at the child as she stood beside the bed. Slowly, very slowly, the little voice repeated the words,

Car Dieu a taut aime le monde, qu’il a donne Son Fils unique, afin que quiconque croit en Lui, ne perisse point, mais qu’il ait la vie eternelle.” John 3:16. Then she turned away.

Strange that this little girl should have given that message to him. And stranger still, he had heard those very words before. But where? His memory was clouded; he could not remember. Again and again that vision seemed to come before him. It was, he thought, a little angel face that had appeared for such a brief moment, and the soft voice had sounded those sweet words in his ears.

Then he remembered. He was a little boy, and was listening to a gospel message. The preacher had said,

“If you were to die today, would you perish, or have everlasting life?” Then he had quoted that lovely verse, John 3:16. He had paid little attention to it then as a boy, but now the real message of it came to his soul.

Quietly, and reverently, the sailor closed his eyes and thanked God for loving him and sending his Son to die in order that he might have everlasting life.

Messages of the Love of God 9/12/1948

Work

Do you remember that Adam and Eve did not have to work hard till after they had sinned? Then God drove them out of the beautiful garden and told Adam he must work till the sweat ran down his face. But, in God’s love and kindness, He has made work a blessing to us, children. The most unhappy people in the world are those who have no work to do. “Satan finds some mischief still, for idle hands to do,” is an old saying but very true. Yes, work is a very great blessing. People work to earn their food, clothing and many other things.

There is a wonderful blessing however, which we can never, never procure by working. This verse of a hymn tells us what it is—

“I cannot work my soul to save

For this my Lord has done;

But I would work like any slave,

For love of God’s dear Son.”

No, we cannot get Salvation by working for it; but, because Jesus did the work on the Cross to save our souls, we can now have Salvation as a free gift. A good verse to remember is this

“NOT BY WORKS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS WHICH WE HAVE DONE, BUT ACCORDING TO HIS MERCY HE SAVED US.” Titus 3:5.

Then after we have accepted God’s great salvation as a free gift from Him, then He will give us both the desire and the strength to please Him day by day.

Messages of the Love of God 9/12/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 43:8-24.

JUDAH told his father that he would take the responsibility of bringing Benjamin down to Egypt, and he became surety for him. If anything happened to Benjamin, he said he would bear the blame. Doesn’t this remind us of the Lord Jesus who became the Surety for us. We had a great debt of sins, and the wages of sin is death, so the Lord Jesus paid the great debt with His own precious blood in order to deliver us from the judgment which we deserved. What a wonderful Saviour He is!

At last Jacob gave in, and agreed that he would send Benjamin. He told his sons to go, and bring a present of a little balm, a little honey, spices and myrrh, nuts and almonds to the lord of Egypt. This present would, Jacob hoped, make him favorable toward them. Dear reader, what are you bringing to God to find favor in His sight? Are you trying a little balm or honey? Are you trying to make a “balm” for your conscience by offering some of your own works to God, or do you think that the “honey” of your kindness to others, and love to your fellowman will turn away His righteous wrath against your sins? There is nothing in your own resources which will make you acceptable to God. Just as Joseph’s brothers were the objects of Joseph’s love, not because of anything they had done, but because of the goodness of his own heart toward them, so we who are saved, are the objects of the sovereign love and grace of God which we never deserved at all. The work of Christ on the cross is the only ground of blessing to ruined sinners.

It is as useless to bring your prayers, church-going, penance and good living to God, as it was for these men to bring their offering of balm, honey, spice and nuts. Nor will it do you any good to bring your “double money” to Him, for you cannot buy your way into heaven. The price has already been paid, not with silver nor gold, but with the precious blood of Christ. (1 Peter 1:18, 19).

In spite of all Jacob’s fears, there was, under it all, a real living faith which God’s eye could see. It is always comforting to know that although we may be mistaken at times as to who is really saved and who is not, yet, “The Lord knoweth them that are His,” 2 Tim. 2:19. He never makes any mistakes.

What a great surprise awaited them when they arrived in Egypt. Joseph commanded his servants to prepare a dinner for them so that they could all eat together with him. This made his brothers afraid. No doubt they felt much like an awakened sinner in the presence of God, who does not know His love toward him. They said that Joseph was seeking an occasion against them and would make them slaves, but they were soon to learn differently. How many people think that God wants to rob them of their liberty, and that if they get saved they will have to give up everything, and not have any pleasure at all in life. This is only Satan’s lie, for while God must make the sinner feel his sins, it is only that he may be set free in Christ.

Joseph’s brothers then offered the money which they had found in their sacks to the steward of the house. It reminds us of those who find out that they have sinned, and would like to pay for their sins in some way of their own. There are few who realize that the greatest of all sins is the rejection of Christ, just as Joseph’s brothers’ greatest sin was the selling of Joseph to the Ishmaelites long before.

Messages of the Love of God 9/12/1948

Why Can't You Talk?

THE boy is a little boy, and the dog is a big dog. He is a kind old dog too, trusty and good-natured, and he has a long rough tongue, but he never says a word. The little boy has a tongue too, not so long as the dog’s tongue, but far more useful. He does not understand why the big dog cannot talk.

You can probably talk faster than you can do anything else. Perhaps you are very clever but there is one thing the cleverest man in the world cannot do—call back a word that is already spoken. Once it is out of your mouth, it is gone. You may say you are sorry, but you cannot recall it, and more than that, God’s Word declares, “Every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.” Matt. 12:36.

That is what happened to the Apostle Peter, just before the Lord Jesus was crucified. Peter was warming himself by the fire, when a certain maid saw him, and said that he had been with Jesus. He answered, “I know not what thou sayest.” This lie led to two other lies, until poor Peter was denying his Lord with oaths and curses. But when Jesus turned and looked upon Peter, he was all broken up with sorrow, and he went out and wept bitterly.

Then what did. Jesus do? He went to Calvary, and was nailed to the cross, to die for those lies that Peter had told, as well as for all the sins of those who believe in Him. From noon until three o’clock there was darkness over all the land, and in that awful darkness, God heaped upon His Son, all the judgment that those sins deserved. After the Saviour died, one of the soldiers with a spear pierced His side, and from it flowed blood and water. This precious blood was shed to cleanse away Peter’s sin and that is why Jesus could look upon that sinful man with love and forgiveness. Peter is with Christ now, a cleansed and forgiven sinner because Jesus died for him.

Have you ever sinned with your tongue, as Peter did? Have you answered with a lie when someone asked you a question? God heard that lie and He hated it, but He does not hate you. As you read this paper, He is looking at you lovingly, ready to save you. Are you one of the little boys and girls who say, “I don’t care”? How very sadly He must turn away from you, for there are other children who love Him, and who will gather around Him gladly in Heaven.

Then God will look at His dear children and say:

“THESE ARE THEY WHICH HAVE WASHED THEIR ROBES, AND MADE THEM WHITE IN THE BLOOD OF THE LAMB.” Revelation 7:14.

Messages of the Love of God 9/19/1948

The Joyful Sound

“Blessed is the people that know the joyful sound.” Psalm 89: 15.

Children all have precious souls;

‘Twas for such the Saviour died

‘Twas for such the Prince of Life

Was on Calvary crucified.

How it tells the matchless love

Of the blessed Son of God,

Thus to come from heaven to bear

Sin’s tremendous, heavy load.

Had He not upon the cross

Borne the wrath that sin deserved,

Never had our happy ears

That sweet word SALVATION heard.

Now we hear the JOYFUL SOUND

Of salvation full and free;

Faith in Jesus makes it ours,

Now and through eternity!+

Messages of the Love of God 9/19/1948

Little Kathleen

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

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

She came home one day to her mother, with a beautiful bunch of grapes. “Look, mother, see what a lady gave me!”

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

“Oh, she gave me more than this, but I gave a lot of them away.”

“‘Did you give them to your little friend, Joyce?”

“No, I gave them to a little girl that always pushes me off the sidewalk, and makes ugly faces at me.”

“Why did you give them to her?” “Because I thought it would show her that I wished to be kind to her, just like the Lord Jesus was to me.”

Wasn’t that a nice way to act? She wanted the other little girl to know that she would not “pay her back.” And whether the other girl stopped her naughtiness or not, she knew the Lord Jesus would be pleased by this Christian act.

Have you ever thought of the wonderful love of God in forgiving us all our sins through the work of His Son, and have you ever thought of how unlike our Lord it is to go on day after day with an unforgiving spirit?

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

Messages of the Love of God 9/19/1948

The Coming Tide

A LITTLE boy was standing on a rack at the seaside. The rock was dry and safe; the summer sunshine was playing on the ocean, whose quiet waves were rolling inshore with a murmur and splash as they fell on the sandy beach. The little boy was very happy as he gathered shells and seaweed.

But though the day was so bright and the sea so peaceful, the tide was rolling in—coming nearer and nearer to that little happy boy. A gentleman who was walking near, saw him on the rock, and, knowing that the tide was coming in, called to him to come farther up on the beach.

“Why?” asked the boy.

“Because the tide is rising and will soon flow over the place where you are standing,” replied the gentleman.

I’am sorry to say the little fellow didn’t believe him, and kept on playing. Young reader, perhaps you have been warned before now that judgment is coming, and you have not believed. Take warning in time!

All at once, a big wave swept right around the rock, and turned it into a little island with water on every side.

Poor little boy! How pale he looked!

But, just at that moment the big wave rolled back again, and the little fellow laughed merrily at his own fears. But again a bigger wave came in with greater force and threw a shower of spray all over him. Now the stranger who had patiently waited for him to make up his mind, came nearer and called, “Come, jump into my arms before the next wave comes and sweeps you off.” But the little boy, now quite frightened, began to cry. Just then another wave came splashing right over the rock, and the poor little fellow, now thoroughly terrified, leaped the other way and fell headlong into the sea.

“Poor boy!” you will say, “was he drowned?”

No, the stranger jumped right into the water after him, and grasped his coat, just in time to save him from being carried out to sea by the backflow of the water, He soon had him up high and dry beyond the reach of the incoming tide.

Now I think the reader will see that this little boy was very wrong in not believing what was told him about the coming danger. And yet how many boys and girls are just as unbelieving when they are told about that tide of judgment which is even now approaching this ungodly world, and will soon overflow it on every side. “How do you know that?” you may ask. Because God has said so, and you had better not disbelieve God. (2 Peter 3.) But perhaps you believe that danger is truly coming, but think there is still time, just a little time, for the things down here that seem to you so pleasant. Jesus stands waiting to save you NOW.

“As the days of Noah were . . they knew not until the flood came, and took them all away,” Matthew 24: 37, 39.

Messages of the Love of God 9/19/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 43:25-34 and 44:1-3.

PERHAPS you are wondering how Joseph’s brothers were going to be brought to repentance. It was through Joseph’s kindness. They were his enemies, who once hated him, but he returned good for their evil and provided water for them to wash their tired feet, food for their animals, as well as a good dinner for them in his own house. Surely this reminds us of what God has provided for His enemies even salvation full and free. If you are unsaved, dear reader, may the goodness of God lead you to repentance, (Romans 2:4) just as Joseph’s kindness led his brothers to confess their sin.

While dinner was being prepared Joseph’s brothers were getting ready to give their present to him — a little balm, a little honey, and other things. Joseph did not even mention what they gave him, but instead he asked after their welfare. God does not need anything from the sinner. He says, “All our righteousnesses are as filthy rags.” Isaiah 64:6. That is like the sinner’s “little present” to God, and it is utterly useless to Him; in fact it is hateful to Him. But He is interested in your welfare, dear sinner, and like Joseph, He has prepared everything for you, and asks you to sit down and thank Him for it. There was however one great barrier to the full enjoyment of the feast. They had made obeisance, they had given their present, but they had not confessed their sin, and though Joseph’s heart yearned and wept over them, he could not make himself known until they fully owned their guilt.

When they had eaten the wonderful dinner which Joseph provided, the steward filled their sacks with as much corn as they could carry, and then put their money in the top of them. In Benjamin’s sack he also put Joseph’s silver cup. What beautiful lessons We can learn from all this. God delights to give us all we can carry! His supply is unlimited, but our capacity is limited —so very small at times, and we do not have room to receive all His blessings. (Malachi 3:10.) Then what a sweet thought in the cup — Joseph’s silver cup. Silver speaks of redemption, and so on the ground of redemption, even the youngest of God’s children has his place at the Lord’s table, partaking of the cup of blessing.

But they did not know all that was in their sacks, nor about the cup being there. They were not in a state to enter into the blessing which was in Joseph’s heart for them, and that is why we are told about the strange way in which they were brought back. There is an• other thing we might mention here purpose is always before responsibility in the Bible. God tells of His plans for blessing us, before there is any mention of how we should act in the place where His grace put us. Some of cur young readers might wonder why this is. It is because if we got what we deserved it would be eternal judgment, but because of God’s purpose and the work of His Son which has enabled Him to carry out His. purposes, we get the blessing from His hand instead of judgment. Oh that we realized more of the goodness of the heart of God! If we did, we would feel more of the constraint of His love.

Messages of the Love of God 9/19/1948

The Chipmunk

HE is a bright little fellow, this chipmunk, isn’t he? He likes to eat melon seeds, but if you come near, he will be off in a twinkling,

and you will just see the tip of his furry tail around some nearby tree. He is just full of life. You see, God wants even the animals to be happy, and that is why. He made the little chipmunk so frisky and lively.

The little fellow has two bright eyes, but not in front like yours. He has two little ears, but not on each side like yours. He has four little feet, but not long and flat like yours, and he has two little hands which are not hands at all, but feet! He has a tongue too, behind his sharp little teeth, but he cannot speak as you can. His little heart beats under his furry chest, but some day it will stop beating, and that will be the end of him. God did not make you very much like a chipmunk, did He?

Of course not. You are much better than a chipmunk. Your bright little eyes were made so that you can read God’s Word. Your ears are intended to, listen to His Word too, and your hands and feet to serve Him as long as you live. Your tongue should speak His truth, and your little beating heart should be given to Him. Jesus wants you. No one else wants you half as much. He has all the glories of Heaven, but He wants the love of your little heart. He made you and He died for you. Will you not give Him what He asks for?

“MY SON, GIVE ME THINE HEART, AND LET THINE EYES OBSERVE MY WAYS.” Proverbs Z3:26.

Messages of the Love of God 9/26/1948

Look Where You Are Going

A YOUNG girl, with her little brother whose name was Jack, were visiting their grandmother in the country. Both were thoroughly enjoying the outing, and one day Jack was so full of life that he began to turn somersaults on the lawn. Over and over he went, until suddenly he felt a dozen spears driven into him. Poor Jack! the grass had looked so soft he had not looked where he was going, and his fun had landed him into a cactus plant. There was nothing for him to do but to lay across his grandma’s knee while she pulled out the thorns one by one. Ah! dear children, there was nothing wrong in Jack turning somersaults, but he suffered because he did not look where he was going.

How many dear boys and girls are just as foolish as little Jack. Because they have good health and are enjoying life, they do not think where they are going. Dear young reader, if you are unsaved you are on your way to something much worse than cactus thorns. You are on your way to eternal judgment. Grandma could take out the cactus thorns, but if you die in your sins it will be too late, for after death comes judgment for the lost. But if you come to the Lord Jesus now, He will take away all your sins, washing you whiter than snow in His own precious blood, and then you will be fit to be in His presence and be eternally happy there.

“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.” Isaiah 1:18.

Messages of the Love of God 9/26/1948

Do You Love Tesus?

I WANT to ask you this personal question, and hope you may thoughtfully answer it. I am very much in earnest about it, and I shall tell you why. Some time ago I was preaching the gospel at Windsor and there was one little girl named Charlotte who listened very very seriously. After the meeting was over I asked her, “Charlotte, do you love Jesus?”

“Yes,” she said, “I do.”

“Have you ever thanked Him for loving you?”

“No, I have never done that.”

I told her to thank Jesus for loving her before she went to sleep that night, and she promised to do so. The next night she came to me with a bright and happy face.

“Oh, Mr. Howes, I didn’t tell you the truth last night. I said I loved Jesus and I really didn’t, but I do now and I have thanked Him for His love.”

Before the meetings were over she brought her sister with her, and now they are both happy in His love. So, my dear young readers, I will ask you again, “Do you love Jesus?” If you do, have you ever thanked Him for loving you and dying on the cross for you?

“We love Him, because He first loved us.” I John 4:19.

Messages of the Love of God 9/26/1948

The Lord's Coming. The Rapture

THE Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout . . and the dead in Christ shall rise first: then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air.” 1 Thess. 4:16, 17. This Scripture refers to what we speak of as the rapture.

No doubt most of our young readers know that there are two parts to the Lord’s second coming. First, He will come into the air FOR His saints, as the above Scripture shows us. Then after the tribulation He will come to the earth WITH His saints to judge the world in righteousness (Jude 14, 15) and to set up His kingdom. This is “the appearing.”

Our talk to-day will be about Christ’s coming for His saints. This blessed truth had been a secret until God revealed it to us through His servant Paul. (1 Cor. 15:51-54) None of the Old Testament Scriptures which speak of His coming refer to this event, for it could not be revealed until the truth of the Church was made known. (Eph. 3:3-11).

There is no prophecy which has to be fulfilled before the rapture. It is the present hope of the church, for we are a heavenly people and should be watching and waiting for the Lord to come at any moment to take us to be with Him up there. When He gives that assembling shout, the world will not see Him. Unsaved men and women, and boys and girls will be going on as usual, leaving God out of all their plans, when suddenly — in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye — all the redeemed will hear the shout, and rise to meet their Lord. The unsaved will be left behind, and they will search here and there for the missing ones. They will wonder what has happened, and then no doubt they will remember the warnings which they have heard and ignored. The door will be shut, and they will find themselves on the outside. There will be a great awakening, and many prayer meetings, but it will be too late. Oh, dear reader, that moment is very near. Are you ready? The Word of God says, “They that were ready went in with Him to the marriage: and the door was shut.” Matt. 25:10. Do not delay one moment longer, but come to mercy’s open gate now, taking shelter under the precious blood which cleanses from all sin. Then you will be ready, and able to say, “Even so, come, Lord Jesus. Rev. 22:20.

We might also add that at this time —at the rapture—all those who died in faith from Abel onward, will be raised out of their graves, and they, with the living ones who belong to Christ, will rise together to meet the Lord in the air. The resurrection of the wicked dead will not take place until about one thousand years later. (Rev. 20:5.)

After the Lord has taken His own to heaven there will be seven years of terrible tribulation, and God will deal with the world, but specially with Christendom and the Jews in Palestine, in righteous judgment. This period is sometimes spoken of as Daniel’s seventieth week, (Daniel 9:27, 12:1) and it will end with the Lord coming out of heaven with His saints. (Rev. 19:11-16.) Next month, if the Lord will, we will speak of this, the second part of His coming, in more detail. In the meantime may the Lord keep us walking in this world as those who are expecting to hear the shout at any moment.

Messages of the Love of God 9/26/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 44:4-34 and 45:1-23.

JOSEPH sent a messenger after his brothers, and he overtook them on the way. The good things he had given them were in their sacks, but they had not found them: nor could they, until there was a full confession of their guilt and sin, but Joseph’s goodness was gradually leading them to repentance. When they came into Joseph’s presence they said, “What shall we say unto my lord? what shall we speak? or how shall we clear ouselves? God hath found out the iniquity of thy servants.” Then they went over the whole story from start to finish, telling all that had happened, though omitting their own sin in selling Joseph. However, this was going to come out too. Joseph could not refrain himself any longer, and told everyone to go out of the room except his brothers.

What a wonderful scene followed. Joseph wept and said, “I am Joseph.” His brothers were troubled at his presence and could not answer. They stood at a distance from him, and so he said, “Come near to me, I pray you,”-i—and they came near. It reminds us of Peter, who, feeling his guilt, was afraid of the Lord’s presence, but the Lord said, “Fear not.” Luke 5:10. How good to hear the Lord saying to sinners even today, “Come unto me,” and also calling His own around himself to remember Him in His death.

Joseph then went on to tell how God had been behind all that had happened, and had sent him down into Egypt. He told them not to be grieved with themselves, but that God was going to preserve their lives by a great deliverance. He assured their hearts of this by saying, “It was not you that sent me hither, but God.” Many of the things they had not been able to under- stand in the past, were made plain in a moment. How true this will be when we see our blessed Saviour. How true will also be when the Lord makes Himself known to Israel in a coming day. All the hard questions and problems will be explained as when Solomon answered the Queen of Sheba all her questions. Joseph opened his heart telling his brothers about his plans to nourish and care for them in Egypt, and then fell on their necks and kissed them. After this his brothers talked freely to him, and so it is with us. After we learn how much the Lord loves us, and all He has done for us, and of His plans for our blessing, then we can hold sweet communion with Him. We can talk with Him in prayer, and He delights to have our confidence.

When Pharaoh heard of all that had happened, he called Joseph, telling him to bring his brethren into Egypt where they could enjoy the best of the land. The whole incident is a type of the time when a remnant of Israel will own their guilt in crucifying their Messiah, and be brought into blessing when Christ (of whom Joseph is a type) reigns in power over the earth. All the kings of the world will have to bring their glory and honor to Jerusalem (Zech. 14:16), and God will see that His people Israel are given the best things, of the earth. So here, they were given wagons, raiment, and all the good things of Egypt, as well as the finest part of the land when they came there to live.

Messages of the Love of God 9/26/1948

The Grasshopper

YOU can see two little kittens, but the grasshopper thinks they are two big animals, much bigger than himself. If they just move, he will be so frightened that he will scarcely know which way to jump. If you should come along, the grasshopper would not see you until you were close up, and then he would jump, I don’t know where, and neither does he.

I am going to tell you about ten men who felt like grasshoppers. They were sent by Moses to see the good land which God had promised to give to His people Israel. They found that the land was very good, flowing with milk and honey, but the people who lived there were giants, tall, strong and wicked, and the ten men felt small and frightened, just like grasshoppers not knowing which way to turn to escape from them.

However, there were two men, Caleb and Joshua, who were sent out with the other ten. They saw the good land and the giants too, but they were not thinking about their own size at all. They thought about God, and His faithful promise to give them that land flowing with milk and honey, and they were not afraid. They were sure that God would be true to His Word, no matter how big the giants were.

You have never seen giants like that, but you have had giant troubles in your little life, and you will have more of them too if you live longer in this world. They will be so big, sometimes, that they make you feel small and helpless like a grasshopper if you face them alone. But why should you face the alone? God wants to be with you, to save you from your giant sins and to face all your giant troubles for you. The blessed Lord Jesus suffered alone, but now He gained the victory and He wants you to know that our enemy the Devil is already beaten. Come near to the Lord Jesus and trust Him as your Saviour, and in every time of trouble you do not need to be frightened, like a grasshopper, because you believe god, and His sure Word.

Those ten men who did not believe God all died without living in God’s good land, but Caleb and Joshua lived there with their wives and families. Joshua lived to be a hundred and ten years old, so the giants did not hurt him, did they? If you trust Joshua’s God, you will find that He is true and faithful, that He will be with you in all the troubles of this life, and that you will live in His good land, not for a hundred years only, but forever and ever. He has promised His own

“I WILL NEVER LEAVE THEE, NOR FORSAKE THEE.” Hebrews 13:5

Messages of the Love of God 10/31/1948

Time Enough Yet

I WELL remember when I was staying in the town of Bolton, a young man whom I knew became very, very sick. We had often spoken to him about his soul, and had, urged him to take Jesus as his Saviour. But his answer had always been, “Time enough yet.”

My dear young friends, there is terrible danger in delay. Satan is the one who whispers in your ear and tells you to be saved at some later time.

The young man’s illness at last came to a fearful crisis and he was very sick, moaning in pain and fever; but the fever of his soul caused him more anguish than his bodily pain. A friend leaning over his bed, said to him,

“If you ever needed a Saviour, it is now. He is willing to save you, even now.”

“Oh, I have put off seeking Jesus too long.”

His friend begged him to look to Jesus, who suffered on Calvery that poor sinners might be saved, but he answered with groans and cries.

“Too late, too late; there is no rest for me. I am going some place, I know not where.” His head fell back upon his pillow and he was gone.

Dear reader, may the Spirit of God awaken you to feel your need of accepting the Saviour at once. This may be the last Sunday School paper you will ever read, and God is inviting you to accept the Lord Jesus as your Saviour NOW.

“Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:2.

“Boast not thyself of tomorrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.” Proverbs 27:1.

Messages of the Love of God 10/31/1948

The Lord's Coming-The Appearing

LAST month we had a little talk about the Lord’s coming in the air for His own — the rapture. Now we would like to talk about His appearing, that is, His coming with His saints to judge the world in righteousness, and to set up His kingdom. (2 Tim. 4:1.)

We believe that it is most important that we separate between these two events which will be at least seven years apart. We remarked last month that when the Lord comes for His own, He will meet them in the air (1 Thess. 4:17), but when He appears with His own He will come to the earth. (Zech. 14:4, 5.) Then every eye shall see Him (Rev. 1:7), and His feet shall stand upon the mount of Olives. All His own shall come with Him, and the world will see us too. (2 Thess. 1:10.)

Now we will notice by reading the Scriptures carefully, that responsibility is always connected with the appearing. When we rise to meet Him at the rapture, it is because we are Christ’s. (1 Cor. 15:23.) Our only title to be caught up when the shout is heard is that we are redeemed with His precious blood. Then there are two things which take place while we are in heaven with the Lord, before we come back with Him. First, there is the judgment seat of Christ, and we shall all appear there. (2 Cor. 5: 10.) Our whole life will be brought into review, not, however, that we should be condemned, but that we may be rewarded for faithfulness here. God will pick out of our lives all that has been done for Him, and in obedience to His Word, and reward it. Then our place in the kingdom will depend on what comes out there, and since this will be seen when we come with Christ, we are always exhorted as to our walk in view of the appearing. “Every man that hath this hope in Him purifieth himself, even as He is pure.” 1 John 3: 3. It is a purifying hope when we think of it. Since we are going to be with Christ and like Him then, it makes us want to be more like Him here. How well we will be repaid for any suffering we endure for His sake now, if in any measure we hear His “Well done,” and have the smile of His approval in that day.

Secondly, there is the marriage of the Lamb which will take place in heaven. What a wonderful time that will be! What rejoicing, as the bride, the Lamb’s wife, is seen in all her beauty, and the friends of the bridegroom — the Old Testament saints will be present at that marvelous event. God’s eternal counsels as to the Church will be brought to a glorious completion when she, the Church for which Christ gave Himself, becomes His bride, to share all with Him in the nearest possible place of relationship for ever.

These two events, the judgment seat of Christ and the marriage of the Lamb, having taken place, then the Lord will appear with His saints, and He will be admired in all them that believe. (2 Thess. 1: 10.) Dear young Christian, does not the thought of this stir up our bridal affections, and make us want to be separate from this Christ-rejecting world, while we await the day when we shall appear with Him in glory? Next month, if the Lord will, we shall look at this event in its effect upon the world.

Messages of the Love of God 10/31/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Genesis 50:20-26.

JOSEPH’S brothers fell down before him and said, “Behold we be thy servants.” Such an expression is natural to one who does not know the heart of God. Mephibosheth said this to David, and the prodigal planned to say it to his father when he returned home; and how many today are coming to God in this way, as though the attempt to serve God would bring them into His favor. Mephibosheth was not received as a servant, but “as one of the king’s sons,” and the prodigal was given the best robe, the ring, the shoes, and above all the welcome, not of a servant, but of a son. And so here, Joseph did not deal with his brothers as servants, but said, “I will nourish you, and your little ones. And he comforted them and spake kindly unto them.” We must be in God’s family before we can serve Him in a way that pleases Him, and then our service is not one of bondage, but of love. The way to get into God’s family is by new birth — by accepting Christ as one’s own personal Saviour. (Gal. 3:26.) Dear reader, have you done this? Until you do, all your service is useless, yes, even hateful to God, because it is not a service of faith or love, and His Word says, “Whatsoever is not of faith is sin.” Romans 14:23.

I could not work my soul to save,

For that my Lord hath done;

But I would work like any slave,

For the love of God’s dear Son.

Joseph then told his brothers that although they thought to harm him, God had turned it into blessing. We know, too, that this world did all the harm they could to Jesus, the Son of God,

but God has turned their wicked act of crucifying Him into the foundation of all blessing to fallen man. Joseph was able to save many people alive for a few short years, but Christ’s finished work has brought eternal life to all who believe on Him — blessed Saviour!

At last Joseph died — and he died in faith, assuring his brothers that God was going to fulfill His oft-repeated promises of blessing. When the children of Israel were brought back to Canaan about four hundred years later, Joseph’s bones were taken and buried there to await the glorious resurrection morn, though Joseph knew very little of it then, but it is now very near “The coming of the Lord draweth nigh.” James 5:8.

We have now come to the end of this interesting book of Genesis, and will just make a few remarks in closing. Genesis has often been spoken of as the seed plot of the Bible, because it gives us an outline, in type or figure, of all the great truths revealed in the other sixty-five books. It reveals the ways of God in grace with men and women; and while recording their failures, it shows us how, through that which figured the death of Christ the coats of skins, Abel’s sacrifice, the ram caught in the thicket by his horns, and many others — God could go on with sinful man and bless him. Dear young reader, let us remind you once again of the importance of every word of God. Read it carefully and prayerfully every day of your life, and you will learn more of its living depths as the years go by.

Messages of the Love of God 10/31/1948

Bible Questions for November

“The Children’s Class”

Each of the following quotations is a part of a verse in Luke, chapters 9-16.

When you have found them, write out each of the seven verses in full. Mark down the chapter and verse also.

1. “In hell he lifted up his eyes.”

2. “Forsaketh not all that he hath.”

3. “Lord, Lord, open to us.”

4. “This night thy soul shall he required.”

5. “Hast revealed them unto babes.”

6. “Whosoever shall be ashamed of Me.”

7. “For there is nothing covered.”

“The Young People’s Class”
JOY

We all like to be happy and joyful, and even though our circumstances may not always be pleasant, we can always have an inward joy. The Lord Jesus “rejoiced in spirit,” but He was the “Man of Sorrows and acquainted with grief,” Isaiah 53:3, for He felt, very deeply, the sorrows which sin has caused in this world. Now, in heaven, He is the Man of Patience; but there is a day coming when He will be the Man of Joy. It will be when He has His own, for whom He died, with Himself, to share all the fruits of His toil and victory.

He is, even now, the source of all true joy to His people; for, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above.” James 1:17. True and lasting joy is only found in Christ, and if we keep near to Him we can rejoice in Him ALWAYS, even on the darkest days.

1. What causes joy in the presence of the angels of God? Luke 15.

2. What gave greater joy to the Apostle John? 3 John.

3. What will cause exceeding joy in heaven? Jude.

4. Could Paul rejoice, even when he was sorrowful? 2 Corinthians.

5. Could Paul be exceeding joyful in all his tribulation? 2 Corinthians.

6. Could the Macedonians have abundance of joy while they were in deep poverty? 2 Corinthians.

7. When should we rejoice in the Lord? Philippians 4.

Messages of the Love of God 11/7/1948

A Ride To The Post Office

IT WAS after a boat ride to the post office at Gordon Bay, Ontario, that I heard the story I am going to tell you today. We stepped into a row-boat just like the one in our picture, untied it from the wharf, and rowed up the bay one evening to get the mail. As we waited our turn in the post office, one of the men told of the great fire which had swept that country years before.

“I was just a baby then,” said Jim, “and my father was away fighting the fires. He did not think that the fire would come near our home; but when he returned, worn out and hungry, he found that the blackened ruins covered every step of his homeward path. When at last he reached the place where our home had stood, he found nothing but charred logs and a tumbled chimney.

“Not knowing which way to turn, he walked down by the water’s edge. His heart ached most of all for Mother and me. Suddenly, he heard the well-known sound of a little boy’s cry, and in a few long strides and jumps, he was down among the rocks, close to the bay. There we were, Mother and I, safe in the cleft of the rock, while the fire had passed by overhead.

“It was hard going, but somehow, Father managed to build a home for us again, and the Government gave us seeds and a cow. One of our speckled hens came back from somewhere, and laid eggs for many a day.”

When his story was ended, someone asked the man if he was saved for eternity. “No,” he answered carelessly, and walked out of the post office.

We rowed back across the water, thinking of that man and of many others, who do not know the joy of being saved. He was saved when the fire passed over his head, but he has no place to hide when the fire of God’s judgment comes, as it surely will come someday. He hid in the rock that day by the water’s edge, but he has not chosen to hide himself in Christ, who is the only shelter from judgment. He was safe in his Mother’s arms that day, but he will not be safe in the arms of Jesus through all eternity.

Is is not very sad to say those five words, “He will not have Christ”? What shall we say about you? Shall we say, “You will not”? The Lord Jesus died to make for you a place of shelter and safety from God’s judgment. God Himself longs to save you. How very sad if the Lord Jesus must say of you, as He did of others when He was on earth,

“YE WILL NOT COME TO ME, THAT YE MIGHT HAVE LIFE.” JOHN 5:40.

Messages of the Love of God 11/7/1948

A Shepherd And His Sheep

SOME time ago, a man was accused of stealing a sheep. He was arrested, taken before the judge, and brought face to face with his accuser, who assured the judge that he was really the owner of the sheep.

The judge knew that in his country it is the custom for shepherds to walk before their flocks and to call them to follow. He thought a moment, and then ordered that the sheep be brought into the courtroom. When this was done, he sent the prisoner into another room, and ordered the other man to call the sheep. He did so, but the sheep paid no attention. It didn’t know his voice!

While this was going on, the prisoner was getting restless, and began to whistle softly, giving the call which he had always used with his flock. This startled the sheep, which at once turned and ran toward the door, in the direction of the well-known whistle.

The judge had no trouble deciding who was the real owner of the sheep.

In John 10:4, 5, we read, “And when He putteth forth His own sheep, He goeth before them, and the sheep follow Him: for they know His voice. And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him: for they know not the voice of strangers.”

You well know who the good Shepherd is — Jesus Christ the Saviour! But do you know His voice, and does He know you as one of His sheep?

“I know My sheep,” He says, “and am known of Mine.” Yes, Jesus gave His life for His sheep, and you may be one of them, simply by coming to Him and taking Him as your Saviour.

“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.

Messages of the Love of God 11/7/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Exodus.

EACH book of the Bible has its own peculiar line of truth, and if we get hold of this it will help us greatly in the understanding of the Holy Scriptures. Exodus gives us the means which God used to bring His people (the Israelites) out of Egypt, and all the details in connection with the setting up of the tabernacle in the wilderness. These things will undoubtedly prove deeply interesting to all our readers.

There is one great lesson which God would teach us from His Word, and it is a fine thing to learn it while we are young. It is this: God moves behind the scenes — He controls everything, and works out His own perfect plans and purposes in spite of all man’s busy movements. When Mother is going to do some fancy work she has a design a plan — before her, and then gradually it is worked out on the fabric. The wrong side may look like a great many confused tangles, and the child might ask, “Mother, what are you doing?” Mother will perhaps show her the design which she is following, and say, “This is what it will look like when it is finished, dear. Isn’t that pretty?” So here in this world, God is wisely working out His own plans, and what may now look like confusion and tangles, is but the perfect wisdom of His ways. Sometimes, as Mother works, she puts down one color and takes up another, in order to make the beautiful blending of colors necessary. In the same way God uses one means for a time, and then another, in His dealings with individuals or with nations, but it is always according to His perfect wisdom and love, and He thus works out His own perfect designs for the blessing of His people.

Perhaps some of our young readers might ask, “What is God’s work going to look like when it is all completed?” That is a good question and God has not left it unanswered in His Word. The first Adam sinned in the garden of Eden, and the whole scene has been spoiled, but there is a day coming when God will create a new heaven and a new earth which will never be spoiled by sin or its results. Christ in manhood is to be the center of that whole scene of glory, and God shall be all in all. (Rev. 21: 1, 23; 1 Cor. 15:28.)

Through the finished work of Christ at Calvary, the way has been opened for blessing to poor sinners like you and me, so that we may share all with Him as His joint-heirs. (Rom. 8: 17.) Would you not like to be part of God’s workmanship for that new creation, dear young reader? He has made you and has given you your life, your breath, and all that you have, but you have sinned against Him. (Rom. 3: 23.) Now if you will just own your sinful condition before Him, and accept Christ as your Saviour, He will make you a new creature in Christ Jesus, giving you a place — a mansion — in that eternal glory. Are you willing?

We can see then, that when God’s work is completed, the whole of the new creation will reflect His glory without any taint of sin for ever. We must, however, warn any of our readers who are unsaved, that your eternal portion will be the lake of fire, where you will be confined under the righteous judgment of God for ever. We entreat you to come to Christ NOW

Messages of the Love of God 11/7/1948

After the Fire

RANGES and Betty are in trouble. How it started they could. not tell, but there was a nasty smell of smoke and then a hurried alarm. The neighbors were hauling bedding and furniture out to safety from the fire, and the firemen were running this way and that with long wet hose lines.

Now that it is all over, Betty has a quart of milk and Frances has a smile. She knows that things are pretty well upside-down, but Mother and Father and Betty are all fine and not hurt at all, and that is why she smiles. The house can be fixed, but the hardest part would have been to lose someone very dear, and God in His goodness has spared her dear ones to her.

Maybe you have known what it is to lose your dear ones, and you know how much it hurts. God knows too, for His Word says, “I know their sorrows.” in order to deliver us from our sins and the sorrows they bring, He gave His only Son to die on Calvary, alone, and hated by the very people He came to

save, and even God turned away from Him when He was bearing our sins in those hours of darkness. The Lord Jesus endured all this that we might never be forsaken.

Two of our dear friends once had to leave us, and our hearts were very sad as we gathered together one evening to say Goodbye. As we were all sitting in a circle, one of the young men stood up and began to ask us some questions about people in the Bible who said Goodbye to each other. He asked us about Abraham and Lot, and about Ruth and Naomi, and many others which we have forgotten, but I think the last question none of us shall ever forget. It was this: “Tell me the names of two who will never be separated.” Nobody answered for a minute. That was a hard question, for the world often says that “the best of friends must part.” Who then will never be separated?

One of the boys answered it. “The Lord Jesus and I,” he said. Wasn’t that a lovely answer? It filled our sad hearts with gladness. We rejoiced to think that this same Jesus who loves us now, will be with us forever.

Would you like this same Jesus to be with you forever? Do you love Him? You could not help loving Him if you knew Him.

“JESUS CHRIST THE SAME YESTERDAY, AND TODAY, AND FOR EVER.” Hebrews 13:8.

Messages of the Love of God 11/14/1948

A Penny For Your Thoughts

OUR ship was far out at sea, and the sun was just setting in the west. My reading for that evening had been on the coming of our Lord Jesus, and my heart was filled with joy at the thought, which seemed very real as I looked at the beauty of the golden and crimson sky. All at once, a young man, a boat-mate of mine, passed by and, seeing me looking afar off at the sunset, he said,

“A penny for your thoughts.”

His name was James; he was a rather reserved young man, yet he always tried to enjoy himself, as he said, “Because it can’t last.”

I replied, “Jimmy, I will tell you my thoughts without the penny,” and pointing to the rays of the setting sun, said,’ “Do you know that Jesus is coming quickly, perhaps before tomorrow’s sun rises? He will come and take all who love Him to Himself, and then, if you are not saved, you will be left behind for judgment.”

James did not like this kind of talk, and he wanted to get away at once, so I added, “You may never hear it again: may the Lord give you to listen now,” and I told him of Jesus who is mighty to save.

He had heard of God as a great God, and a righteous God, but never as a God of love. The story of His love broke him down, and he was very unhappy; he soon ran away when he saw another sailor coming.

The next morning I found him in no mood to talk, but I continued to pray to the Lord for him. He seemed to become more unhappy and I was glad of it. Do you wonder at this? It was a sign that his sins were troubling him, and I felt that he would soon turn to Jesus.

It wasn’t long until he came to see me again, and begged me to tell him how his sins could be forgiven. I was happy to show him that “The blood of Jesus Christ, God’s Son, cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7.

He exclaimed, “I see it now, it is not my doings, but the blood.” Do you think he was happy then? Of course he was, and something else; he was always ready to tell others about the value of the blood of Jesus. I heard him say one day to another sailor, “John, if you Want to be happy, as you turn into your hammock, and cover your blanket over you believe in the blood of Jesus Christ that can cover and hide all your sins from the sight of God.”

One day a man met him and said, “Have I not seen you somewhere?”

With a happy smile, he said, “I don’t know! Do you know Jesus?”

“No, I do not; I wish I did.” He then heard what the Lord had done for sinners.

Dear reader, do not try to run away from God’s love as James did at first, for He wishes to set your conscience and your heart at peace.

“If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” Romans 10:9.

Messages of the Love of God 11/14/1948

A Young Man's Story

ONE fine summer day, two young men went for a row up the river near their home. As the sun became warmer, they tied their boat to a bridge, and dived in for a swim. But Allen didn’t come up. He didn’t know that there was a wooden framework below the surface of the water, and there he found himself fixed. He struggled hard, and felt that he was lost for sure. But his friend was a very good diver and swimmer, and soon found him and set him free. Allen was most thankful to his friend for saving his life, but he had no thought of being thankful to God. He was not a Christian, and few thoughts of God ever entered his mind.

A few weeks later he was on the same river in a racing boat, when he was suddenly upset. He just managed to hang on, and the stream carried him and his boat rapidly away. A boat put out at once from shore, and once again he was rescued, this time at the very spot where he had seen a man drown once before.

This second deliverance made him really afraid. How would it be with his soul, he thought, if God should cut him off? He continued in this misery for some weeks.

After some time, a friend of his who was a Christian, met him on the street. “Well, Allen, and how are you today? And how is it with you and the Lord Jesus?” There was no answer. Finally Allen was persuaded to come to the Bible Class with his friend, and during the course of the class, the young men were urged to accept the Lord Jesus as their Saviour before it was too late.

That evening, when he returned to his home, Allen kneeled in his room and owned himself a needy, helpless sinner, and accepted the Lord Jesus as His Saviour.

Young men—for it is a young man who writes this to you — do not neglect God’s offer of salvation! He loves your soul and has put this paper in your hand, and watches you now as you read it. Will you accept His Son as your Saviour?

“How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation.” Hebrews 2: 3.

“He that being often reproved hardeneth his neck, shall suddenly be destroyed, and that without remedy.” Proverbs 29: 1.

Messages of the Love of God 11/14/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Exodus 1:1-14.

GOD had His plans for the children of Israel. He had told Abram long before that they were not to remain in Egypt. (Gen. 15: 13-21.) Canaan was to be their land, and although they had been in. Egypt for about four hundred years, God had not forgotten His promises — He never forgets them! However He used means that might have seemed strange to the natural eye of man. He was going to bring Israel out of Egypt, it is true, but they had sunken into idolatry like the Egyptians, and they needed to be awakened out of their sleep.

The children of Israel had multiplied greatly in the land, and God used this to arouse a feeling against them. Of course it was very wrong for the Egyptians to turn against them and hate them, but God used the circumstance, in His perfect wisdom, to work out His own plans. A king arose who knew not Joseph. He forgot the mighty deliverance which God had wrought through Joseph, and he decided to make the Israelites slaves. Does this not remind us of the world today? It is quickly forgetting Christ, and what He has done for sinful men. Kings, governors, and statesmen are arising who know Him not, and in many places it is becoming very difficult for those who wish to be faithful to Him. But God is still on the throne. He is still working behind the scenes, and just as a special wave of trouble preceded Israel’s great deliverance out of Egypt, so we know that as things become worse, it is a sure sign that the Lord Jesus will soon come as our Deliverer. (1 Thess. 1: 10; 2 Tim, 3:13.)

Primarily, of course, this incident would speak of what is happening to the Jews in this our day. Their very persecution is the means which God is using to bring them back to Palestine (Canaan) , only as yet they are going back in unbelief. However, the day is drawing near when God will bless them in their land as He has promised in His Word, though the “time of Jacob’s trouble” (the tribulation) must come first.

The Egyptians made the lives of the Israelites miserable, for they forced them to serve with rigor. They built treasure cities for Pharaoh, and at this time they may have built some of the great pyramids which are still standing today. Satan, like Pharaoh, is a hard taskmaster, and he delights to bring people into bondage, and the sad part is, that many do not seem to realize that they are his slaves and that they are building his treasure cities. While admiring all the treasures with which the cities of the world are decorated, men and women, and even boys and girls, forget that they are doing Satan’s work. Then suddenly sickness and death overtake them, and they wake up in a lost eternity. O dear unsaved reader, listen to this warning now, for it is still the day of God’s grace. He will deliver you from Satan’s power, setting you free in Christ. God told Moses to tell the children of Israel that He had come down to deliver them, and we can gladly tell you that the work of redemption has already been finished at Calvary. Will you accept Christ as your own personal Saviour today?

Messages of the Love of God 11/14/1948

The Letter

MOTHER watched eagerly, day after day, for the postman. In many of the homes, he dropped his mail in the box without seeing anyone, but Mother was sure to be on the spot with a smile and a nod, anxiously watching for a letter.

You see, Daddy was on the other side of the Atlantic ocean, and a letter from Daddy made the sun shine all day long.

One day, a very special letter came. Mother had a feeling, as soon as she saw the Air-mail envelope, that it was a very special letter. As soon as she read it, she dropped on her knees in the kitchen with covered head and a heart full of thankfulness. There was just one word in that letter that made her heart so happy, and that one word was “Coming!”

The whole world was not glad that Daddy was coming home, but Mother loved him, and that made the difference.

Now, my reader, I have a very special message for you, from God’s Word, John 14: 3, “I will come again.” Is your heart filled with thankfulness and joy to know that Jesus is coming? The whole world is not glad, but if you love Him — that makes the difference.

Daddy could not say just when he was coming but Mother watched and worked and waited, until one day he came, and she has never stopped being glad that he is home.

Our blessed Lord Jesus will surely come, but we cannot tell you when. Are you watching and working, waiting for your precious Saviour to come for you? When He comes, dear young believer, your joy in being with Him will last for all eternity, without a sorrow or a tear to spoil it.

Are you one of those who are not glad because you do not love Him? There are many, many, who do not care, but the Lord Jesus wants you to open your heart to Him, as you read this paper. He died in order that He might win your love, forgive you, and take you to live with Himself in Heaven.

“SURELY I COME QUICKLY. AMEN. EVEN SO, COME, LORD JESUS.” Revelation 22:20.

Messages of the Love of God 11/21/1948

I May Be Next

HOW many of our young readers have ever stopped to consider just how short a time they may have left to accept God’s offer of salvation? We learn from the Word of God that “all have sinned,” and each one, I am sure, knows in his own heart that he is a sinner. What wonderful love and grace it was on the part of the Lord Jesus that He should come down to Calvary’s cross, and there die to put away our sins, bearing the punishment for them Himself. Because of this, God is now offering salvation as a gift to anyone who will accept it. Shall I tell you the story of one boy who was brought to the Lord Jesus?

Jack and Torn had gone into a farmer’s orchard on their way home from Sunday School, intending to steal some apples. While they were there the owner saw them, and Jack and Torn were soon on the run with the man after them. How they ran! Finally the farmer gave up the chase, and the boys climbed to the very top of a tall oak tree. It was so lovely and cool in the tree, and they felt so safe. No one could see them there they thought. Crack went the tree top in which they were sitting! — Their weight had split the tree right down the middle, and it a moment of time Torn was lying silent and still at the foot of the tree. Poor Jack! He was able to climb down from the broken limb to which he had clung, and he brought help as quickly as he could, only to see his pal carried to the hospital to die.

Still Jack did not think that he, too, might have passed into eternity.

A few weeks later he was walking along the roadside with another friend. named Bill. It was a lovely day, with the sun shining and everything beautiful. A butterfly flew past the boys and Bill darted after it. Over the road it fluttered and after a car passed he continued the chase. Too late did he see a second car coming from behind he was on the road and the driver had no time to stop. Jack saw little Bill killed before his eyes.

No longer now did Jack try to forget his need of salvation. He thought, and Oh! how solemn it was, “I may be next.” Earnestly did he seek the Saviour and putting his trust in the Lord Jesus he accepted God’s gift of eternal life and rejoiced in the knowledge of sins forgiven.

Dear reader, have you thought as Jack did, “I may be next”?

There is another, a man, whom I would like to tell you about. We read in Genesis 5:24, “Enoch walked’ with God: and he was not; for God took him.” How wonderful for Enoch — he suddenly found that he had left this world to be with Jesus! It was a joyful thing for him. But still more wonderful it is that the Lord Jesus is coming again to take all who trust Him to be with Himself. We who love Him will suddenly find that we are with Him.

Do you want to be among that happy throng? Then you must accept the Lord Jesus as your Saviour before He comes. When is He coming? He Himself tells us, “Behold, I come quickly.” Oh! do not delay, “Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Cor. 6:2.

What happened to those who were left behind when Enoch was taken? They suffered the judgment of God against their sin. What will be your portion if still rejecting the Lord Jesus? You too will suffer the judgment of God against your sin throughout all eternity in the lake of fire, prepared for the devil and his angels.

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31. Believe now! Tomorrow may be too late!

Messages of the Love of God 11/21/1948

What Can I Do For Jesus?

THE Lord Jesus has done so much for us that He could not do more. He not only left the glory above, but He gave His life for us. He said: “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends,” but He laid down His life for His enemies.

Those who have been saved by His precious blood, love Him in return, and often ask themselves, “What can I do for Jesus?”

I read lately of a little Armenian boy, who, with many other children, had been taken into an orphan’s home in Marash. This little boy was not only poor, but he was very sick and had to be in bed a great deal. The dear lad was saved, and knew the Lord Jesus as his own precious Saviour, and he often thought, “What can I do for Jesus?”

At last he thought of a way. But to carry out his plan, he had to have the help of the nurse who waited on him. He decided to refuse the dessert at every meal, and once every week, he would do without a meal altogether. At the end of some months he handed to the head man of the home, a slip of paper on which he had written, “For the value of 68 desserts and 16 whole meals which I did not eat, please buy a Bible, and give it to anybody who would like to have one.”

The head man was very greatly surprised, for he hadn’t known anything about what the boy had been doing, but he gladly owned the claims on that slip of paper, and went right out and bought a new Bible and gave it to a man who had often wanted one.

Do you, dear reader, know Jesus as the One who died for you? And have you ever wanted to do something for Jesus? “If any man will come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.” Matt. 16: 24.

Messages of the Love of God 11/21/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Exodus 1:15 — 2:3.

PHARAOH then told the midwives that when a little boy was born they were to cast him into the river; but the midwives saw that this was a very wicked thing to do, and because they feared God they saved the boys alive. Long before this, back in the garden of Eden, God had promised that the Seed of the woman should bruise the serpent’s head. He had also told Abraham that “In thy Seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed,” (Gen. 22:18.) and Satan was busy here trying to destroy the boys so that the promise could not be fulfilled. Later on, in the days of Esther, the decree had already been passed to kill all the Jews, but God intervened and delivered His people. When the Lord Jesus was born, or shortly after, Herod issued a proclamation that all the children two years old and under were to be slain, but God saw to it that His beloved Son, that Holy Babe, was hidden from Herod’s malice. God always makes the wrath of man, and even Satan’s rage, to praise Him, and “we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.” 2 Cor. 13:8. May the Lord give us all to count on Him more, and see His hand working behind the scenes at all times.

“There went a man of the house of Levi, and took to wife a daughter of Levi.” (Verse 1.) The tribe of Levi, we find later on, was the tribe which was particularly devoted to Jehovah, and amid the low state of the nation, it is refreshing to see a young man who was faithful and who took a wife who was of the same mind. Dear young reader, if you and I walk with God, He will guide us in these great decisions of life. He can lead you to the right partner who will be a true helper in the path of faith.

Soon God gave them a little son, and what were they going to do with him? Were they going to allow him to be thrown into the river as Pharaoh had said they should? No, indeed not. They saw that their son was a goodly child and so they hid him. Perhaps the one who is reading these lines is the child of Christian parents, and they are trying to hide you from the power of the prince of this world, Satan. How thankful you can be for a Christian father and mother who are concerned about your present and eternal blessing. Perhaps there are feelings of resentment at times about the narrow path, and you would like to get out and see the world, but let us remind you that Satan is its prince. He has dressed up the world to deceive you; and your parents, who know something of its wickedness, are trying to hide you from it, and from the sorrows caused by walking in its ways.

Moses’ parents knew that they could only hide their boy for a little while, and this they did, but the time came when they could not hide him any longer. They then made an ark of bulrushes and covered it with black pitch inside and out so that it would be waterproof. There was nothing very attractive about its appearance, all so black, but it spoke of the death of Christ and Moses’ parents knew that their boy was safe in it. They put him there in faith, counting on God to care for him.

Messages of the Love of God 11/21/1948

What Is He Worth?

UR little boy is very dirty, isn’t he? His face and hands are muddy, and he thinks that is lovely. His hair is not combed; but he doesn’t care at all. His sweater is muddy too, and as for his overalls, nobody can keep the buttons in place long enough to hold them together. See, one corner is fastened with a big knot. Now, what is our little boy worth?

Not very much to you, perhaps, but Mother would not sell him for hundreds and hundreds of dollars. He keeps her busy all the day long; but she just washes his dirty face and then kisses him, and I think you can tell me the reason in four letters. That’s right — L—O—V—E. Mother loves him.

Away under his sweater is his little beating heart. God loves him too, but God knows that his little heart is far more soiled than his face. Our little boy is a sinner, not only once but many times. His heart is black, and God hates sin far more than Mother hates dirt. Now, what is our little boy worth to the Lord Jesus?

The Lord Jesus gave His life to save little boys like that. Not even Mother could love him half so faithfully as Jesus does, even though he is a sinner. We hope our little boy has learned to love Jesus in return, for he is not too young to be able to say,

“UNTO HIM THAT LOVED US, AND WASHED US FROM OUR SINS IN HIS OWN BLOOD.” REVELATION 1:5

Messages of the Love of God 11/28/1948

The Hindu Boy's Vacation

A BRIGHT BOY of fourteen years, who lived in India’s swamps, came to us in Midnapore to our Sunday School. Perhaps I should say our school, because we had lessons every day in the week; not just on Sundays. ‘This boy was very anxious to learn, and wanted very much to be saved. It gave me much joy to hear his thoughtful questions and his earnest prayers.

He had not been with us very long when he joyfully told us that he could now call the Lord Jesus his Saviour. How happy he was now! A 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 very sorry, for I feared he might be homesick, and might not come back. So I said, “This is not the time to think of a holiday. The term has just begun; but when vacation time comes, you may go home with the other boys.”

He said nothing, but turned and walked away. I thought he was satisfied, but shortly afterward he found

me again, and begged the most earnestly: “Do, please, let me go home right now.”

“Why do you want to go home now? Tell me the reason and I will consider it.”

Big tears rolled down his cheeks, and for a while he was unable to speak a word. At last he said, in a voice that went right 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 Jesus. Please may I go and tell them?”

“Yes, you may go, and we will pray for you and your friends.”

It took him two full days to reach his home village. When he came back after a few days, his face was even more beaming than ever. He had been able to tell all of his relatives about the Saviour. After some time we learned that there had been much blessing from that vacation. First the mother, then the father, then two brothers and three sisters had found Jesus as their Saviour.

Perhaps the reader of this story does not know Jesus as Saviour. Let me tell you that it is a very real thing to accept Him, and it is a terrible thing to reject Him.

Perhaps the reader is a Christian. Do you long to tell the good news to others and to lead them to Jesus?

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 of Mark.

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

“With the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” Romans 10:10.

Messages of the Love of God 11/28/1948

The Lord's Coming — The Appearing

LAST month we had a little talk about the appearing of the Lord, looking at it more particularly in regard to its connection with the saints. We believe it would be profitable to speak of it today in its effect upon the world which the Lord will come to judge at that time.

During the period of tribulation which will come upon the world (Daniel’s seventieth week, Dan. 9:27) , iniquity will rise to terrible heights, and God’s judgments will be poured upon this dark scene. Two men will be prominent at that time: first, there will be the head of the revived Roman Empire, who is called “the beast,” (Rev. 13: 1; 20: 10) and then there will be the head of the unbelieving Jews in Palestine — the antichrist — who will set himself up as God to be worshipped. (Rev. 13: 11-13; 2 Thess. 2: 3-12.) These two men will prosper during the last half of the tribulation, but will be the first to meet their doom when the Lord appears in judgment. They will be cast alive into the lake of fire. (Rev. 19:20.) It is at this time that the nations are gathered together to battle at Armageddon. (Rev. 16: 16.) First, the Roman confederacy will be destroyed (Rev. 19: 19), then the Assyrian power (Dan. 11:40-45), and lastly the great northern or Russian confederacy. (Ezek. 38.) The Lord Jesus will thus act first as the David king putting down His enemies, before He sets up His kingdom to reign in righteousness and peace as the Solomon king. All the living nations shall be gathered before Him to be judged, and their judgment will be final. (Matt. 25:41-46.) The righteous will then be brought into kingdom blessing on the earth (Matt, 25:34) , whereas the Church, having been raptured to glory before the tribulation, will reign with Christ over the earth during the kingdom period of one thousand years, commonly called the millennium.

How little this poor world realizes the awful future which is before it. Men are going on making their peace plans, and trying by scientific inventions to make things more comfortable, as though they were going to stay here for ever. It is just like repairing the chairs of a sinking ship, in order to make them more comfortable. Judgment is written on the whole scene, and the only reason that it has not yet been executed is that God is “long suffering ... not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3: 9. All the vain efforts of men will never bring about peace, for they have rejected the Prince of Peace, and how can they expect to have peace without Him. God will never allow it, for He has said, “I will overturn, overturn, overturn it . . until He come whose right it is; and I will give it Him.” Ezekiel 21: 27.

Before peace can ever be established in this scene, judgment must first clear it of “all things that offend, and them that do iniquity” (Matt. 13: 41) and “the kingdoms of this world . . . [shall] become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of His Christ; and He shall reign for ever and ever.” Rev. 11:15. All God’s purposes center in Christ, the Man of His counsels. (Eph. 1: 10.) Dear reader, if you are not saved, may God grant that you may flee to Christ now, while it is still the day of His grace. The coming of the Lord draweth nigh.” James 5: 8.

Messages of the Love of God 11/28/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Exodus 2:4-9.

MOSES’ parents, as we remarked previously, showed their faith in putting their little son in the ark at the river’s brink, and Miriam, Moses’ sister, stood by to see what would become of him. What an expression of utter weakness — a little babe in an ark among the bulrushes — but God saw the faith expressed in the parents’ act, and He undertook for them.

Children, you are growing up in a dark world which is filled with wickedness and sin, and no doubt many of you are the objects of your parents’ prayers. How they watch you in love, desiring that you may be preserved from the evil ways of the world, and from the judgment that is at the end of a Christless life. King Pharaoh wanted to destroy Moses along with all the other Hebrew boys, but God intervened on Moses’ behalf in a most marvelous way and preserved him. God’s ways are not ours, but we know that He never disappoints faith. May we all, especially we who are parents, learn to trust Him more.

Let us see what took place. After the baby had been lying in his little ark for some time, Pharaoh’s daughter came down to the water’s edge to wash, and what a surprise she received. There was the little baby Moses in his ark of bulrushes! Why didn’t she just have him thrown into the water as her father had commanded? Perhaps she thought of such an awful act, we do not know; but God hindered it in any case. No one can harm us or our children unless God allows it, and faith trusts God in spite of seeming impossibilities. Instead of harming Moses, she took him up in

her arms, intending to bring him home to Pharaoh’s court. Miriam, who knew all about her parents’ faith, and had been brought up in that happy atmosphere, immediately came to Pharaoh’s daughter, and in wonderful, God-given wisdom, she asked Pharaoh’s daughter if she could get a nurse for the baby from among the Hebrew women. Pharaoh’s daughter consented to her request, and so Miriam went and brought Moses’ own mother to care for him. God is too rich to ever be our debtor, or to owe anything to us, and what a surprise awaited the faithful mother. Pharaoh’s daughter told her that she would pay her for nursing Moses, her very own son. What a great lesson for Christian parents today. God will reward us for bringing up our children for Him. No effort in this direction will be in vain, though too often we expend our greatest efforts to seek great things for them in this world, only to find that there are no wages for all such efforts, except the sorrow we often have to reap.

May all this be a lesson to us, both young and old, that we may seek grace from above to put first things first, and even when things look dark and difficult, just to go on in faith, counting upon God. He is able to undertake for us in every problem which confronts us in family life, as well as in everything else.

When He makes bare His arm,

Who shall His work withstand?

When He His people’s cause defends,

Who then shall stay His hand?

Messages of the Love of God 11/28/1948

Bible Questions for December

“The Children’s Class”

Each of the following quotations is a part of a verse in Luke, chapters 17-24.

When you have found them, write out each of the seven verses in full. Mark down the chapter and verse also.

1. “Today shalt thou be with Me in “paradise.”

2. “This do in remembrance of Me.”

3. “In that night there shall be two.”

4. “God be merciful to me a sinner.”

5. “All live unto Him.”

6. “Hated of all men for My Name’s sake.”

7. “All things must be fulfilled.”

“The Young People’s Class”
PEACE

In a world of turmoil and unrest, how wonderful it is to have peace. God is the God of Peace, and Christ is the Prince of Peace. The world would like to have peace without God or Christ, but no matter how hard they try, or how many peace conferences they hold, there will never be settled peace until the Lord Jesus returns to reign in righteousness.

But the believer has peace with God now. He knows that the work of Christ on Calvary has met all God’s holy claims against sin, and “We [all believers] have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:1.

The believer’s life too, should be one of peace. The Lord Jesus said, “My peace I give unto you,” John 14:27, and we should bring the peace of His presence wherever we go. Our very feet should be shod with it for by keeping near the Lord, this peace of God will garrison our hearts at all times.

1. How has God made peace for us? Colossians.

2. WHO is our peace? Ephesians 2.

3. Is there any peace for the wicked? Isaiah 57.

4. What does God say of the peacemakers? Matthew 5.

5. Should we follow after the things that make trouble or peace? Romans 14.

6. Would a state of confusion be of God, in an assembly of Christians? 1 Corinthians 14.

7. What did the Apostle pray that the God of Peace would do for the Thessalonian believers? 1 Thess.

Messages of the Love of God 12/5/1948

Gary's Cat

GARY lived with a gray-haired old man whom he called “Drampa.” Many a time Gary was able to give a helping hand on the farm, and very seldom would you see him without his black and white cat. I’m afraid the cat did not always enjoy his share in Gary’s duties, but he was always ready to come back for more.

When milking time came the cat would always slip out at the back door and find his way to the barn. Even in the stormiest weather, pussy never stopped for any extra woolens, though Gary had to bundle himself right up to the ears. You see pussy had a fur coat all the time, but Gary did not have one at all.

Old grandpa had a wonderful fur coat. It was made of the skins of muskrats which he had killed some years ago in the river, and these skins made such a warm covering that even the coldest wind could not make him shiver. Gary wished that he had a fur coat like grandpa’s, but just think how many little muskrats must die to make a coat like that.

Do you remember the story of the very first coats of skins that were ever made? God made them for Adam and his wife, and clothed them. If you have read the story in Genesis 3, you will remember that Adam had sinned in disobeying God, and for this sin he deserved to die. But God Himself shed the blood of some animals which He had created, and with their skins He made clothing for Adam and Eve. So you see, they were able to stand clothed before God because of the death of another.

You must stand before God someday, little reader. Will you be clothed because of the death of God’s Lamb —the Lord Jesus — or will all your horrible sins be seen in His sight? The Lord Jesus has died, and His blood has been shed, in order that you might stand before God without one spot of sin.

Perhaps you will remember that Adam and his wife had dressed themselves in fig-leaf aprons. They might have said that they were quite well dressed already, and did not need God’s coats of skins, but I am glad that they were not so foolish. No, the little animals were dead, and their new clothing reminded them every minute that God had clothed them through death. Perhaps you might think that your sins are not so bad after all, and that you do not need the death of Christ to put them away.

Remember that God says your sins are “as scarlet,” but His love has provided a way to put them out of His sight forever, through the death of His Son.

“BLESSED IS HE WHOSE TRANSGRESSION IS FORGIVEN, WHOSE SIN IS COVERED.” PSALM 32:1.

Messages of the Love of God 12/5/1948

Emily

ONE day I saw a little girl twelve years old, lying in bed in a hospital. I asked her, “Do you love the Lord Jesus?”

“No,” she replied, “but I want to, very much.”

“Why?” I asked.

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

“Now, Emily,” I replied, “I want you to think carefully of these two verses, ‘God hath 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 slowly, “if God put them on Jesus, and He bore them, I can’t bear them too.”

“That’s just it. The Lord Jesus bore the punishment for your sins on the cross, instead of you.”

“Then I do trust Him now, and I will try to be good.”

“I am glad you have trusted Him, Emily, but don’t think that you must try to be good so that Jesus will love and save you. He loved and died for you long ago, and now that you have trusted Him it is quite right to try to please Him, because you now belong to Him.”

I believe little Emily, then and there in her hospital bed, really put her trust in the Lord Jesus, her Saviour; and to you I would say: Come to Him with all your sins for He will save you. “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life.” John 3:36.

Messages of the Love of God 12/5/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Exodus 2:10-12.

WE DO NOT read very much in our chapter about the forty years which Moses spent in Pharaoh’s court. If any man had been writing this story of his own accord, he would have told us a great deal about how well Moses learned his lessons, and what a clever boy he was. But we are reading God’s Word, not man’s, children. Yes, the Bible is God’s Word, and it does not exalt or flatter man. The only Man whom God delights to honor is Christ, His beloved Son. All other men are sinners, with sinful, fallen natures, and God has declared “that no flesh should glory in His presence.” 1 Cor. 1: 29.

In the seventh chapter of the Acts, however, we are told that “Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians, and was mighty in words and in deeds.” God has told us that much, only to show us what he really gave up when he took his place along with the rejected people of God. Sometimes we don’t like to give things up for Christ, do we? We don’t like the world to call us foolish, and so we use the ability which God has given us to exalt ourselves, and men will praise us for doing that. But Moses refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter, and chose rather to suffer affliction with the people of God. (Heb. 11: 24, 25.) A foolish choice in the eyes of the world, but a wise one — a very wise one — in the eyes of God. Dear young reader, how is it with you? Do not strive to be at the top in school, or anywhere. Do your work well, and to God’s glory, but when you are asked to do something which you know is displeasing to the Lord, refuse, no matter what it costs. God will take care of you and honor you, even if others laugh. You have to choose, as Moses did, whether you want the world’s honor or God’s. May you and I always seek the honor and glory of the Lord in all things.

One day Moses went out from Pharaoh’s court and saw an Egyptian hitting a Hebrew — one of God’s people — and so he looked both ways to see if anyone were watching. When he could not see anyone, he killed the Egyptian and buried him in the sand. His intentions were good, and he loved the people of God; but he went about things in a wrong way. We are often like this, especially when we are young. I don’t mean that we go as far as to kill someone, but we try to set things right in our own way. Let us remember, dear young people, that we cannot set the world right, and if we try, we shall get into trouble just as Moses did. But there is much that we can do, only let us do it in obedience to God’s Word, and not in our own way. One day I was standing at the door of a large building when a young lady came along on her way out. She pulled very strenuously in an unsuccessful attempt to open the door, and then found out that the door opened with a push not a pull. Someone standing by said, “We can put a great deal of effort in the wrong direction, can we not?” We delight to see real energy in serving the Lord, but let us be sure that we are doing things which are according to His Word, and not just what we think is right. “He that doeth the will of God abideth for ever.” 1 John 2: 17.

Messages of the Love of God 12/5/1948

The Lifeboat

THE Lifeboat “Aid” was larger than the one in our picture, but the men bent to their task with the same strength and courage against wind and waves. In the darkness, they had seen rockets fired from a ship stranded on Goodwin Sands off the coast of Ramsgate, and every man in the lifeboat was eager to save the despairing sailors.

Not sailors only, but women and children too, frightened in the darkness and the storm, crowded together on the stranded ship to watch this little ray of hope. Nearer and nearer it came, now riding on the top of a wave, now swallowed up in spray, but ever longing to save them.

At last it struggled within shouting distance, and a voice roared, “We can carry maybe thirty at a trip.” The sailors helped the women and children down the swinging ropes to an unsteady footing in the rolling lifeboat, twenty-nine of them. Then a man rushed up to the rail with a bundle in his arms. The sailor understood — a blanket, of course, for a woman in the boat. “Catch it, Bill,” he shouted. Bill caught it, though it slipped, but at the same moment, he heard a baby’s cry. One of the ladies screamed, snatched it from him, and hugged the little bundle to her breast.

That was the thirtieth passenger. The “Aid” fought its way safely to shore, and I am thankful to say, it was able to return through the wild seas and rescue every man on board the sinking ship. But what of the little bundle? She grew to be a bonny big girl, and her husband love to tell, with earnest praise and thankfulness, of that stormy night when his precious little wife was saved.

Have you been saved? Do you ever think of the black darkness that the Lord Jesus passed through to save you, and do you tell, with warmest praise and thankfulness, how He saved you when you could not save yourself at all? If you have not a heart full of praise for the Lord Jesus Christ, then probably you are not saved at all, but lost in your sins like a sailor in a sinking ship. If you are without Christ, you are without hope.

Surely we should trust Him who is ready and willing to save sinners, and our lips and lives should praise Him who died that we might live.

“EVERY DAY WILL I BLESS THEE; AND I WILL PRAISE THY NAME FOR EVER AND EVER.” Psalm 145:2

Messages of the Love of God 12/12/1948

Jesus Alone Can Save

SOME years ago I was passing a deep mill pond, when I noticed that two sheep had fallen into the water and were struggling to get out. I went to the side, right by where the sheep were and reached down to take them out, but what do you think they did? They turned right around and swam to the other side and kept trying to get out by themselves! One of them had just been shorn of her wool and so was lighter and was able to climb out onto the bank by herself. But the other was kept down by the weight of its wool and could just barely keep its head above the water. No matter which side I went to, that poor drown. ing sheep swam away and tried to get out somewhere else.

The sheep and his wool are like the sinner and his sins. They weigh you down and you are quite unable to get rid of them yourself, or to work your own way to heaven. But there is Someone who is standing by you right now as you read this paper and He is waiting to cleanse you from your sins and save you from an eternal hell. It is Jesus the Saviour. Are you turning from His trying to struggle along by yourself?

At last the poor sheep seemed to feel that its efforts were useless, and it swam right to where I was, as if to say, “Please take me out.” I reached right down and quickly lifted the poor creature out of the water and laid it safely on the grass. The moment the helpless animal turned tome, it was rescued. And the moment you, my reader, will turn to the Lord Jesus, He will rescue, save, and bless you. “Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

Messages of the Love of God 12/12/1948

A Squirrel's Sermon

WALTER was a little shepherd boy. His sheep were just as hungry on Sunday as on any other day; so Walter had to feed them. It wasn’t very long until Walter got into the habit of spending the rest of the day idling about the town with a group of other boys. These boys never read the Word of God, and didn’t care to go to Sunday School, and soon the shepherd boy left off reading his own Bible, and stopped attending the Gospel meetings. But his conscience was uneasy, for he had been early taught to know better, and he often went about with his companions in a very unhappy state of mind.

One Sunday morning, when he was going to look after his sheep, he happened to spy a squirrel in a tree. The little squirrel was sitting on a limb with his two front paws raised together before his little face, as they often sit when eating a nut. Now, it happened that Walter had been thinking over his evil ways, and as he watched the little animal, it appeared to him that the squirrel was praying. 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, he kept thinking of that squirrel, and of his own forgetfulness of God. As soon as his work in the fields was finished, he hurried home, got his Bible, and set out to Sunday School. On his way he had to pass a group of his old friends, and they at once guessed where he was going and began to tease him. But no teasing could keep Walter from his purpose. God was speaking to him, and when Sunday School was over, he went home feeling that neither praying nor working could save him.

On the following Lord’s Day he went again, and soon found that “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners,” and that “he that believeth on Him hath everlasting life.” Walter accepted the Lord Jesus as his own Saviour and found that he was now so happy that he didn’t enjoy the old life with his old companions.

He found too, that his work as a shepherd interfered with the meetings on the Lord’s Day, so he changed his job, and although he had to work much harder, he was happy in it for the Lord’s sake. He was even able to take a Sunday School class of other boys, and loved to tell them of the blood of Jesus Christ that cleanseth from all sin.

Messages of the Love of God 12/12/1948

The Two Bibles

MY mother gave me a Bible for my birthday,” said a little girl to me one day, “and Aunt Betty gave one to my brother at the same time. Just look at them now and see the difference.”

Brother Harry’s was quite worn. Its gilt edges were tarnished, and the newness was gone from the cover, but it looked as if it had been read very often. Here and there I saw pencil marks near favorite verses, and in one or two places it seemed as if tears might have fallen. Little Harry loved the Lord Jesus, and his Bible seemed to be his favorite book.

Patsy said quite happily, after I had looked at her brother’s Bible, “Now, see mine!” She unfolded the tissue paper from it, and there it was just as fresh and fair and uninjured as when it came out of the store.

“I’ve never had it out of the drawer but once,” said Patsy, “and that was to show it to somebody.”

“Patsy,” I said, “if your father were away from home, and sent you a letter, telling you how much he loved you, and telling you what he wished you to do, would you leave that letter unopened and unread? Would it not be better to take it out and read it over often?”

“Yes!” said the little girl, blushing and hanging her head as she began to see my meaning.

Do you read the Bible every day? Reading the Bible will not make you fit for heaven, but in it you will find the good news 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.” John 3:16. And if you believe that blessed message you will be saved.

Messages of the Love of God 12/12/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Exodus 2:13-25.

THE next day Moses went out again, and this time he saw two of his brethren quarreling. He was going to settle their quarrel, when one of them spoke up and said, “Who made thee a prince and a judge over us? Intendest thou to kill me as thou killedst the Egyptian?” This made Moses afraid. When we are pleasing the Lord we do not need to be afraid; but Moses was acting in his own energy, even though his intentions were good, and now he was afraid of Pharaoh. He then fled into the land of Midian, but God had His eye upon Moses. He never forgets those who are His, even though we often err.

Moses sat down by a well in the land of Midian, and when some women came along to draw water, he saw the other shepherds driving them away. He immediately stepped up and helped them, and watered their flock. A little act of kindness goes a long way, children, and so it was here. When the women returned home and told what had happened, Jethro, their father, sent them back to invite Moses into his home. God thus rewarded Moses for his act of kindness, and he lived with Jethro, who also gave him his daughter Zipporah to be his wife. This reminds us of how the Lord Jesus, who, while rejected by His brethren, the Jews, is taking a Gentile bride; for the church, we know, is to be the bride of Christ. (Acts 15: 14.) Moses then had a son whom he named Gershom, which means “a stranger here,” and so this is our position now as Christians. We are strangers in this world, and our home is in heaven. May we act like it from day to day! Wherever Moses’ son went he had to give his name as “a stranger here,” and he would always be reminded of his position.

God had not forgotten His people, even though Moses had fled from Egypt and left them there. God had His eye upon them and His ear was open to their cry. He did, however, allow them to feel the bitterness of serving Pharaoh, for they had forgotten the Lord. How often God has to bring sorrow into people’s lives in order to make them turn to Him, and then when they do call upon His Name, He hears them and answers in blessing. “Oh that men would praise the Lord for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men.” Psalm 107:8.

How could the Lord bless the children of Israel, for they were idolators like the Egyptians? They surely did not deserve to be brought out from under the hand of Pharaoh, and back to Canaan. The only way God could bless them was through sovereign grace, and He remembered His covenant with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He would never forget those promises, for they were founded on that which figured the death of Christ, and therefore blessing was assured to the nation, because God is faithful. And how can God bless sinners today? we may ask. They certainly do not deserve it, and God is holy; but the work of Christ on Calvary has opened up the way whereby poor lost sinners can come and obtain mercy. All God’s holy claims against sin have been fully met, and the Lord Jesus is now risen and seated at the right hand of God.

Messages of the Love of God 12/12/1948

The Iceberg

DOWN from the cold northland floated this great chilly iceberg. Past black seals, white polar bears, and fur-clad Eskimos it came, floating along with the current. Little kayaks and big boats steered carefully away from it, for they knew well enough that it is not pleasant to bump an iceberg.

You see, an iceberg is cold and hard, and very poor company for anyone. It has no warmth and gentleness, for if it had, it wouldn’t be an iceberg any longer! How is it with you, boys and girls? Do your friends find that you have warmth and gentleness for them, or do they find you something like an iceberg? Most important of all, how does God find you? Are you filled with warm love toward Him, or is your heart like a little iceberg when God seeks for your love?

Our iceberg did not look very large when it floated in the water, but any Eskimo knows that an iceberg is ten times as big as it looks. The wind and the tide left it far up on shore one day, and there it stood, showing its full size, just as God can see all the real coldness of your heart when He looks at it. It is well that you too should see that heart of yours is far worse than it looks, even to your friends.

But see what is happening to the iceberg in our picture. It cannot stand the sunshine. Slowly and surely, all its coldness and hardness is melting away, until nothing will be left but a wet spot on the ground. Surely the warmth of God’s love will melt your cold heart too. Open and read your Bible, and let the light of the glorious gospel of Christ shine in unto you. His love will then shine out from you to others also, and that dangerous iceberg will be fresh springs of water!

THIS IS MY COMMANDMENT, THAT YE LOVE ONE ANOTHER, AS I HAVE LOVED YOU.” JOHN 15:12.

Messages of the Love of God 12/19/1948

Jesus Has Got Me Now

AT a children’s meeting, a little girl was listening eagerly as the speaker told of the joy of accepting the Lord Jesus as Saviour. When the service was over, the young preacher went up to the young girl and said,

“And are you trusting the Lord Jesus?”

“Oh, yes,” she replied.

“Why, how long has that been?” “Only just now, as you were telling us to trust Jesus, I did it!”

Wasn’t that good news? They had a very happy talk together, and as they were about to say good-night, the young man added,

“Now, Jean, when you came to the meeting tonight you did not belong to the Lord Jesus, but you are going out of this place a believer and a Christian. But perhaps tomorrow morning Satan will whisper to you and tell you that Jesus hasn’t saved you at all.”

A smile instantly lit up her happy and thoughtful face and she said in a most simple and confident manner, “Oh! I shall just tell him that Jesus has got me now:”

Messages of the Love of God 12/19/1948

Four Questions

CAN you skate? Now, what boy hasn’t at least tried. Perhaps you can skate a little and hope to learn better. And do you remember how hard it was at first — how you just hated to trust yourself to those two little blades of steel on the smooth and shiny ice? But when you really trusted those skates, and ventured out — what a thrill you found!

Can you ride a bicycle? You almost laugh as you think of being held on, of being pushed, and of falling off the side. And then you found that until you really trusted those two wheels to do the work, you would never learn to ride.

Can you swim? Perhaps you can, and perhaps not, for there are a good many boys and girls who do a lot of splashing and can’t swim at all. They keep one foot on the bottom and are afraid to trust the water to hold them up. You never learned to swim until you got both feet off the bottom and really tried.

Are you saved? That’s a Gospel question right enough. Maybe you answered the other three questions now will you answer this one — ARE YOU SAVED? Can you say, “Yes, thank God, I am saved.” How strange that boys and girls trust themselves to blades of steel, to a pair of wheels, or to treacherous water, but won’t trust their souls to the Lord Jesus. Come now and trust Him fully. “Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37. You may fall on the ice, or even go through, you may tumble off your bicycle, or you may go down under the water; but “He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him.” Heir), 7:25,

Messages of the Love of God 12/19/1948

Little Elsie's Prayer

A little girl named Elsie,

Of four or five years old

(Whose parents were in heaven

And safe in Jesus’ fold),

Was taught in early childhood

To love His precious name:

And in His Word believing

A Christian thus became.

Now Elsie had a brother,

And Jesus was his joy;

She also had another,

A wild and wayward boy.

And by his naughty manners,

His sister’s heart he grieved,

She wished he loved the Saviour,

And on His name believed.

One day her elder brother

Met Elsie on the stairs,

Her face seemed full of sorrow,

Her mind seemed full of cares.

“What ails my little Elsie?

And what has made her cry?”

But Elsie seemed unwilling

To tell the reason why.

He lovingly embraced her,

And asked her yet again

“What is the little trouble

Which gives my sister pain?”

At last she gently whispered,

While looking at the floor,

“I’se just been asking Jesus”

And then she said no more!

Her brother seemed astonished

(But joy was in his face)

To find his little sister

Had sought the throne of grace.

Then Elsie, gaining courage,

Her secret told to him

“I’se just been asking Jesus

To save dear brother Jim!”

“Pray on, my little sister,”

Her brother then replied, “

And always go to Jesus,

And in His love confide;

For He is ever faithful

To those who trust in Him;

And may our gracious

Jesus Soon save dear brother Jim.

“For even naughty children

Are objects of His care:

No doubt that He will answer

My little sister’s prayer.

He bids us not be weary

But always watch and pray,

And from a child’s petition

He will not turn away.

“And though He is in glory,

And angels worship Him,

He hears the prayer of Elsie, T

o save dear brother Jim.”

“Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving.” Col. 4:2.

Messages of the Love of God 12/19/1948

Good News

Dear reader, you may be saved as you read these lines -

WHY? — Because Christ died for sinners. (1 Peter 2:24.)

HOW? — Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 16:31.)

WHEN? — Now, or it may be too late. (2 Cor. 6:2.)

WHERE? — Just where you are. (Luke 14:21-23.)

WHO? — The ungodly. (Romans 5:6.)

FROM WHAT? — From the wrath of God. (John 3:36.)

TO WHAT? — To peace with God ane glory to come. (Romans 5:1, 2.)

Messages of the Love of God 12/19/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Exodus 3:1-6.

MOSES had spent forty years in Pharaoh’s court getting a fine education, and becoming a great man, but God could not use him until he had learned his own nothingness. Just as he had spent forty years learning to be “somebody,” God had to leave him on the backside of the desert for forty years while he learned to be nothing. This was no doubt a very hard lesson for Moses to learn, as it is for all of us, if we ever do learn it even in a little measure. We might have thought God could have used Moses while he was so influential in Pharaoh’s court, but then the flesh — the natural self in Moses — would have boasted about what it had done. God would never allow that, for “God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble.” (1 Peter 5: 5.) Now that Moses had learned at least something of this lesson, God was about to use him, but there were still some other necessary lessons for him to learn in the school of God, as we shall see while we go on with our chapter.

Moses was keeping the flock of Jethro, his father-in-law, when he came to mount Horeb. There he saw a wonderful sight. He saw a bush burning with fire and yet it was not consumed; that is, it was not burned up. He had never seen anything like that before, and he decided to go closer and see what was happening. As soon as he began to come near, God called to him out of the bush and said, “Moses, Moses.” Yes, dear reader, the Lord knows your name, and more, He knows all about you. He is calling you too, unsaved one, just as He called Moses, and He has a more wonderful sight for your eyes, if you will see it by faith, than what Moses saw that day. He would have you to look, by faith, to Calvary’s tree and see the Lord Jesus bearing the consuming wrath of God, in order that you and I might never be consumed under His judgment, but rather be brought into blessing through His finished work. What a wonderful sight for a trembling sinner to behold! And what peace fills his soul when he can say, “Christ died for me.”

The bush burning with fire, yet not consumed, would also remind us of Israel as a nation. God was dealing with them under the rod of Pharaoh’s taskmasters, but they were not consumed. They were still the people of God, and He was going to deliver them, and yet, for them as well as for us, the ground of all blessing is the work of Christ at Calvary. Moses could not draw near, for that work was not yet accomplished, but now we can come into the very presence of God with holy boldness, through the blood of Jesus. (Heb. 10: 19.)

Even at the distance from God at which Moses stood, he had to take off his shoes. There was nothing upon which he could stand before God except through sovereign grace, and so now, before a sinner can get any blessing from the hand of God, he must realize that there is nothing of his own doings, such as good works, prayers, penance or church-going, by which he can stand before God. He must come in the way which is expressed so sweetly in the little hymn,

Just as I am — without one plea,

But that Thy blood was shed for me,

And that Thou bids’t me come to Thee,

O Lamb of God, I come.

Messages of the Love of God 12/19/1948

The Teddy Bear

BABY has a dear old Teddy Bear. The man next door gave it to her, a big furry black-and-white teddy bear with shoe-button eyes, movable arms and legs, and a snug soft body, just right for hugging. Teddy has had many a tumble down from the carriage, down from the high chair, even all the way downstairs, but Teddy is the same cuddly bear that he was before.

If you try to take Teddy away, Baby will squeal until all the neighbors can hear. She wouldn’t part with him—dear old Teddy. But along came Mother, smiling and holding out her hands to her little girl. Baby’s arms were up in a moment, Teddy was forgotten. He fell on his nose on the lawn, and there he stayed. Nothing mattered but Mother. Nobody was half so dear as Mother.

What will you do when Jesus comes for you? Will you be ready to let go of everything, and hold out your arms to Him? When you think of His coming, does your heart say, “Nobody is half so dear as Jesus”?

Baby was perfectly happy in Mother’s arms, but her happiness did not last for ever. Our happiness with the Lord Jesus will last eternally. Will you be there?

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

Messages of the Love of God 12/26/1948

How Can I Go In?

A MAN was anxious and troubled about his soul. He wanted to get to heaven, but he didn’t know how. One day he had a very remarkable dream.

In his dream he stood at the gate of heaven and saw a great radiant company of people drawing near, bearing palms of victory in their hands. They sang happy songs, and as they entered the gate, he could hear a great chorus of welcome.

“Who are they?” he asked.

“They are the prophets, who have gone to be with God.”

“Alas! I am not one of them and never shall be, and I cannot enter there.”

Before long another company passed by. They too entered the open doors and were lost to sight, amid songs and shouts of welcome.

“Who are these?” he inquired. “They are the apostles.”

“I am not one, and can never enter through those gates.”

Longing to enter, he still waited near the door. Company after company passed him by. Some were martyrs, some were preachers, some were devoted servants of Christ, little known on earth, but well known on high. But with none of these could he enter.

Still waiting and hoping, he noticed another company, larger than any of the others, approaching majestically. Right out in front, he saw one whom he recognized. It was the repentant thief of Calvary.

When he saw who they were he thought, “There will be no shouting about them.”

To his astonishment, however, all heaven seemed bursting with songs of joy as they entered.

“These are mighty sinners, saved by mighty grace,” he was told.

“Blessed be God, I can go in with them.”

And he awoke from his dream.

And this is how you and I can enter the courts of glory—as those redeemed to God by the blood of Christ,—as those whose guilt has been atoned for at the cross of Calvary.

Listen to the song which we shall sing in glory. “Thou wast slain, and hast redeemed us to God by Thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation.” Revelation 5: 9. Can you join in that song? Have you found shelter under that precious blood which alone can put away sin?

Messages of the Love of God 12/26/1948

I Have A Saviour

A Chorus

I have a Saviour, a precious Saviour,

Who died on Calvary’s cross for me;

And now he’s risen, gone back to heaven,

Someday He’s coming back for me.

And while I’m waiting, I’ll try to please Him

In everything I do any say;

And when I see Him, O how I’ll praise Him,

For washing all my sins away.

Messages of the Love of God 12/26/1948

The Apostasy

WE are often told that the Bible is a history of men in their search after God, but this is not true. Romans 3:11 tells us, “There is none that understandeth, there is none that seeketh after God.” On the other hand, the Bible shows us that, ever since sin entered into the garden of Eden, men have been getting farther and farther away from God, while God on His part has been seeking men to bless them.

Each time God has given some fresh revelation of Himself the enmity of the heart of man has come out still more. Even when He sent His only begotten Son into the world—that blessed One in whose face all the glory of God shone out—they rejected Him. They cried, “Away with Him, away with Him, crucify Him”—and they had their wish, for Pilate delivered Him to be crucified. Then after this terrible act, in which the heart of man came out at its worst, God sent down His Holy Spirit to bear witness to Christ’s finished work. Has the world accepted this testimony? No; men want to go on in their own way and leave God out altogether. Now if to despise Moses’ law meant certain death, surely to turn one’s back upon the full revelation of all that is in God’s heart, as is known in Christianity is much more solemn. This is apostasy in its worst character, and will bring down the “sorer punishment” spoken of in Hebrews 10:29. Let us notice the three things mentioned in that verse as being characteristic of an apostate. He denies the full Godhead glory of the Lord Jesus (Colossians 2: 9)— treading Him “under foot”; He denies the atoning value of His shed blood (1 John 1: 7)—Counting it “unholy,” and he rejects the truth of salvation by grace alone (Ephesians 2:8, 9)— doing “despite unto the Spirit of grace.”

As we look around us today, we can see how rapidly these truths are being given up, and many, while still holding to the outward forms of Christianity, deny the power of the truth over their lives. They act almost like pagans while calling themselves Christians. (2 Timothy 3:1-5.) All this is deeply solemn, and is one of the most definite signs that the Lord’s coming must be very near. Surely we are in the last times!

We might remark here that the apostasy, or “falling away” in its full character will not take place until after the Lord has come and taken His Church (all who are truly saved) to heaven, but we can surely see the beginnings of it now in Modernism. Today the power is gone, and a great deal of the truth denied, but soon the very form itself will be gone, for not long after the Church has been taken to glory, the very profession of Christianity will be abandoned altogether, and the antichrist will set himself up to be worshiped as God. (2 Thessalonians 2:4.) This will be “the apostasy.”

Let us then, dear young Christians, take warning and hold fast both the form of the truth and its power, (2 Tim. 1:13) walking in the light which God has given us. In this way we can give “greater joy” to the heart of Him who loved us and gave Himself for us. As we see the fundamentals of Christianity being given up on every hand, let us be careful that we do not take the first step in departure by allowing even a little of the truth to slip away from us. “Holding fast the faithful Word as ye] have been taught.” Titus 1: 9.

Messages of the Love of God 12/26/1948

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Exodus 3:7-10.

MOSES hid his face for he was afraid to look upon God, and well might any awakened sinner hide his face as he realizes for the first time that he is guilty before a holy God. However, instead of condemning Moses, God gave him a message of blessing both for Himself and for His people. And so now, the moment a sinner realizes and owns his sin, God reaches out and saves him. As soon as the publican in Luke 18 said, “God be merciful to me a sinner,” God was merciful and he went down to his house justified.

God told Moses that He had surely seen the affliction of His people and that He knew all about their sorrows. He knew what it meant for them to be beaten and kicked as slaves were in those days. Long before this Moses had thought that God did not see what His people had to endure, and he had tried to set things right himself by killing an Egyptian. We are much like this at times, as though the work of saving souls were ours. True, it is our privilege to carry the message of salvation, and let us be more diligent in doing it, but let us remember that God alone can save a soul from sin and its bondage. Moreover, He is far more willing to do it than we are, so let us sow the good seed and then look to Him for His blessing on it. “God giveth the increase,”

The message that Moses was to carry to his people told Of what God was going to do in the future, whereas now we can tell of a work already finished. The Lord Jesus, our Deliverer, has died; His blood has been shed, and now He is risen and seated at God’s right hand as the proof that God has accepted the redemption work which 11e has accomplished. Dear young reader, have you thanked God for that finished work? Can you say that the blood of Jesus Christ, God’s Son, has cleansed you from all your sin?

God not only told Moses that He knew all about the suffering which the children of Israel were enduring under Pharaoh’s taskmasters, but He said He would deliver them from their burdens and take them out of Egypt altogether. Most of us have friends who sympathize with us in our sorrows, but seldom can they deliver us from them. We who are saved have a Friend who knows all our sorrows and He is going to deliver us from them, too. Someday soon He is going to give a shout in the air and call all His own to be forever with Himself in that home above where sin and sorrow can never enter. The children of Israel, as we shall see later, had to sprinkle the blood of the slain lamb on the lintel and two side posts of their homes before they could be delivered from Egypt, and so now we must warn our readers that the only way of deliverance for you or me is through the shed blood of Christ which must be applied to the soul’s need. Only through that, can one enter that bright city above, for all those who are there sing, “Thou wast slain and hast redeemed us to God by Thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation.” Revelation 5:9.

Will you be there and I?

Where all the redeemed shall with Jesus dwell;

But will you be there and I?

Messages of God's Love: 1948

Table of Contents

Bible Questions for January

Henry's Broken Arm

Early Training

Trusting

Bible Talks

Ten Thousands Fears

None in Hell

The Measure of Love

God so Loved

Himself He Could Not Save

Bible Talks

The Empty Plate

Desire for the Word of God

The Wasp's Nest

Left Behind

The Morning Star

Bible Talks

The Trap

In a Ring of Fire

The Word of God

Bible Talks

Bible Questions for February

The Path in the Snow

Names

What Winnie Thought

Bible Talks

Grandpa Can Fix It

Philip

The Fountain

Bible Talks

The Bridge

Philip

Love One Another

Bible Talks

The Blacksmith's Lesson

Philip

You Never Told Me So

Bible Talks

The Honey Bird

Let Go Your Hold

The Peace of God

Bible Talks

Bible Questions for March

Little Fish

Who Saved Me

A Little Prayer

Bible Talks

Caring for Little Brother

Hannah

A Child's Prayer

Two Brave Miners

Bible Talks

Niagara Falls

Teddy's Conversion

The Lost Gold Mine

I Wonder When 'Forever" Will Begin

Bible Talks

The Painted Horse

Eternity

The Power Of The Word Of God

Whatsoever Things Are True

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Bible Questions for April

Enough For All

The Death-grip

What Is Stronger Than A Lion?

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Arthur's Pup

Please Read This Book

Three Times Saved

Happy

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

The Heavy Load

Lessons From a Mouse Trap

Can It Be Rubbed Out?

Bible Talks for Boys and Girls

Sailboats

Eleanor