Messages of God's Love: 1969

GEORGE and his mother lived in a couple of rooms in a busy section of the big city. They were poor but very happy together until one day they were told that the house in which they lived was to be sold, and they would have to move. And so the poor mother began her weary round of going about from place to place, trying to find rooms where they could live. But over and over again she was asked, “Do you have any children?” When she replied that she had one boy, she would receive the same answer, “Sorry, no children allowed here.”

So the days passed away and the time was drawing very near when George and his mother would have to move out. Still nothing was found.

One day, George came home from school and found his mother in tears. She was sad and worried and didn’t know what to do. George thought things over in his mind and soon decided what he would do.

The next morning his mother went off to work and George got ready for school as usual. But before going out, he wrote a note to his mother and left it on the kitchen table. It read: “Dear Mother: I’m going away from home, not because I don’t love you, but because you can’t find a place to live while you have me. I’ll come back to you when I’m grown up, and I’ll work hard and we’ll have a nice house to live in. Love, George.”

Then little George started out. But he didn’t get very far. In crossing a busy street, he was knocked down by a car and seriously injured. They took him to the hospital and called his mother. She came hurrying to his side, but George, was so badly hurt that he was dying.

Just before he died, he said, “Mother, I’m going to the best Home of all —a home where they never say, ‘No children allowed,’ because Jesus said: " ‘Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not.’ " Mark 10:14.

“In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.” John 14:2.

There’s a Friend for little children,

Above the bright blue sky—

A Friend who never changes,

Whose love can never die.

Unlike our friends by nature,

Who change with changing years,

This Friend is always worthy

The precious name He bears.

There’s a home for little children,

Above the bright blue sky;

Where Jesus reigns in glory,

A home of peace and joy.

No home on earth is like it,

Or can with it compare;

For every one is happy,

Nor could be happier there.

“Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28.

ML-01/05/1969

No Night There

In the land of fadeless day

Lies “the city four-square";

It shall never pass away,

And there is “no night there.”

God shall “wipe away all tears";

There’s no death, no pain, nor fears,

And they count not time by years,

For there is “no night there.”

All the gates of pearl are made

In “the city four-square";

All the street with gold is laid,

And there is “no night there.”

And the gates shall never close

To “the city four-square,”

There life’s crystal river flows,

And there is “no night there.”

There they need no sunshine bright

In “the city four-square,”

For the Lamb is all the light.

And there is “no night there.”

ML-01/05/1969

"Come Along, Little One."

ONE SUNDAY afternoon I was invited to speak to the children Such a crowd, of little folks can that we had difficulty in finding seats for them all.

After the service began, I noticed the door open and two tiny little girls dressed in white walked in, holding each other by the hand. They came slowly up the middle aisle, looking into each row, but the people only shook their heads which meant “no room!” “no room!”

At last they had walked right up to the front and could not find a seat, so I paused for a minute and asked for some hassocks. Then the dear little sisters sat down just at my feet.

At the close of the service a Christian lady talked to these little ones in the after meeting. Presently one of the two, who was only four years old, looked up brightly and said to her, “I know what Jesus will say if I come to Him!”

“Well, dear, what will He say?” asked the lady.

“He will say, ‘come along, little one; I am so glad to see you,’ " she replied.

Yes, that it what Jesus will say to any poor sinner, whether a little boy or girl, or a grown up, who comes to Him. When the Lord Jesus was or earth He said: “Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of God.” Mark 10:14. And He is stil the Same.

“Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28.

ML-01/05/1969

The Young People's Class: The Holy Ghost

1. How did the HOLY GHOST operate in Old Testament times? 2 Pet.

2. What relationship does every believer have with the HOLY GHOST today? 1 Corinthians 6.

3. In what way did Jesus describe the HOLY GHOST to His disciples who were sorrowing at the thought of His departure? John 14.

4. What is one comfort we may abound in through the power of the HOLY GHOST? Romans 15.

5. What has the HOLY GHOST shed abroad in our hearts? Romans 5.

6. By what way will the HOLY GHOST never teach? I Cor.

7. What one truth can only be spoken by the power of the HOLY GHOST? 1 Cor.

“AND THEY SUNG A NEW SONG, SAYING, THOU ART WORTHY...: FOR THOU WAST SLAIN, AND HAST REDEEMED US TO GOD BY THY BLOOD.” Revelation 5:9.

ML-01/05/1969

Bible Talks: The Story of Moses

Exodus 11:1-3

TO THE CHILDREN of Israel perhaps it seemed a long time since Moses had first returned to them, when they heard that the LORD had visited His people and that He had looked upon their affliction (Ex. 4:31). Severe trials and testings had perplexed and troubled them for a time after that, but as one plague after another overtook their enemies and they themselves were preserved, they were repeatedly reminded that God was for them and working in His own way and time.

Now it is not at all a strange thing for God’s people of every age to be subject to trials and testings of faith, and perhaps the reader has known something of this. As believers we should seek to learn what God would teach us through such trials remembering that “God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be (tested) above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” Again, in 1 Peter 1:6,7 we are told: "... Now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations (testing): that the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 1:6,7. How encouraging it is to know that God is behind every scene, aware of every circumstance, and wishes to strengthen our faith and draw us nearer to Himself.

God would send one more plague upon Egypt, and it was the worst of all. It was death. All the sorrows and trials of this world are as nothing compared to death and eternal banishment from God, and this is the “one plague more” that awaits those who reject Christ and cling to this doomed world.

“And the LORD said unto Moses, Yet will I bring one plague more upon Pharaoh, and upon Egypt; afterward he will let you go hence:... he shall surely thrust you out hence altogether. Speak now in the ears of the people, and let every man borrow of his neighbor jewels of silver, and jewels of gold. And the Lord gave the people favor in the sight of the Egyptians. Moreover, the man Moses was very great in the land of Egypt, in the sight of Pharaoh’s servants, and in the sight of the people.”

As the last great plague drew nigh the Israelites were on the threshold of the great deliverance from the land of their bondage. Their liberation was accompanied by a mighty display of God’s power. He caused the Egyptians, who had all the wealth, to look favorably on the captive Israelites, and jewels of silver and gold were thrust upon the very ones they had hated and mistreated.

Now those who are saved and follow a rejected Christ may be a despised people, but soon all will be changed. We may see the world hang all the seemingly good things now, and young hearts are liable to draw back from the path of reproach and suffering that belongs to the Christian, but soon we shall be taken out of this world to be with Christ. Then when He takes possession of all things in heaven and earth, He will take it in His saints. (Eph. 1:18). As joint-heirs with Him, we shall have all then, and never lose it. We shall have it without any sorrow or tears to spoil it, and our portion will be eternal. Dear young reader, it is worth waiting for!

ML-01/05/1969

The Redeemed Rabbit

TED HAD a pair of splendid rabbits, and he was very fond of them. But one night someone opened the hutch and stole one of them. Ted felt very bad the next morning when he found that one of his prize pets was missing. After long searching he learned that his lost rabbit, along with others, was up for sale away at the other end of town. Away went Ted to claim his pet.

When he arrived at the place he saw his rabbit sure enough. He was about to carry it off, when a stern voice called out, “You can’t take that rabbit without paying for it. It’s mine!” Poor Ted ran off home again and told his father all that had happened. His father understood and gave Ted sufficient money to redeem the captive rabbit. Away ran Ted again and soon the price was paid. The rabbit was set free and restored to its original owner. How thankful and happy Ted was as he carried his pet in his arms back home again.

Does not this illustrate our condition as sinners? We all were far from God, lost, captives to Satan, “sold under sin” (Rom. 7:14); and had not the Lord Jesus come Himself to reem us none would ever have been brought back to God. But this He has done, blessed be His name! He has paid redemption’s price; and O what a price!—His own precious blood. Nothing less could a holy God demand to atone for sin. “Without shedding of blood is no remission.” Hebrews 9:22. Peter, the Apostle, tells us that we are not redeemed with silver and gold—things of great value in the eyes of men—“but with the precious blood of Christ.” 1 Peter 1:18. “In whom we have redemption through His blood even the forgiveness of sins.” Colossians 1:14. Dear young reader, have you been redeemed and brought back to God?

Ted’s carrying home his rabbit in his arms makes us think of the shepherd in the parable of the lost sheep (Luke 15). It says: “And when he hath found it, he layeth it on his shoulders, rejoicing. And when he cometh home, he calleth together his friends and neighbors, saying unto them, Rejoice with me; for I have found my sheep which was lost.” Has the good Shepherd found you yet? And are you being carried home to heaven on His shoulders of strength?

ML-01/12/1969

The Letter Box

HERE IS A Letter Box like the one at your street corner. Boys and girls, young men and ladies, fathers, mothers, tourists, travelers, business men, lawyers, and all sorts of people use it. Letters of all kinds, for all lands, are emptied out of the letter box and sent to all parts of the earth. In this letter box, there are some letters for you. Let us open them and have a look at some of them.

No. 1 is a LOVE LETTER. Who does not like to get love letters? This one is from heaven. I will read it: “I have loved thee with an everlasting love.” Jeremiah 31:3. The “I” is God, the “thee” is you—all of us, whosoever, bad boys and girls included. For we read elsewhere: “God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8. I deliver this letter to you.

No. 2 is a NEWS LETTER. Some letters bring bad news, but this is good news. Hear it: “Behold, I bring you good tidings... Unto you is born... a Saviour.” Luke 2:10. This is good news, indeed. And further: “Be it known unto you, therefore... that through this Man is preached unto you the forgiveness of sins.” Acts 13:38. Good news, indeed! Who has believed it? Who has received it? Have you?

No. 3 is a LETTER OF ACCEPT. ANCE. A love letter may be neglected, and the lover rejected; good news may not be believed, and the sender despised; a gift may be left tin. claimed, and the giver unthanked, But here is a clear and hearty acceptance: “This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Timothy 1:15. “Thanks be unto God for His unspeakable gift.” 2 Corinthians 9:15. This is acceptance, And again, “We have known and be. lieved the love that God hath to us.” 1 John 4:16. God waits for this from you all. Who will write this acceptance today?

No. 4 is a REGISTERED LETTER, It is for security—see the seal on it. There is something of value inside, so it has to be made secure. The Word tells us that all who are Christ’s are “sealed.” (Eph. 1:13), and none can pluck them from His hand (John 10:28). How safe, then, are all who trust in Jesus!

No. 5 is a BUSINESS LETTER and is urgent. There is no work to be done for salvation, but plenty from it. A boy who had graduated was asked by some of his former schoolmates to come and play ball. His reply was, “I am in my father’s business now.” May all who are saved, be like the Lord Jesus, Who said, “I must be about My Father’s business.” Luke 2:49.

No. 6 is a LETTER FROM HOME. From loved ones there—always welcome. There is a precious word in John 14:3, from the Father’s house of love, the eternal home of the redeemed. It is, “I will come again and receive you unto Myself"; and the very last news from that home is, “Surely I come, quickly.” Revelation 22:20. Can you say, “Heaven is my Home?” Have you the title and the fitness to be there?

ML-01/12/1969

What Says the Clock?

What says the clock when it strikes ONE?

“God loved the world and gave His Son.”

What says the clock when it strikes TWO?

“O glad, good news—He died for you!”

What does it say to sinners at THREE?

“Friend, can you say, He died for me?”

“Come now to Christ,” it says at FOUR;

“Enter at once the open door.”

“To enter life’s strait gate now strive,”

It urges you as it strikes FIVE.

It speaks at SIX of your fading day;

“Your life’s a vapor that passeth away.”

What says the clock as it now strikes SEVEN?

“Born again you must be, to enter Heaven.”

Hear its solemn chimes when striking EIGHT,

“If you longer wait, you may come too late.”

Then louder still it warns at NINE,

“No longer slight God’s love divine.”

With pleading voice it now strikes TEN.

“Why will ye die, ye sons of men?”

Sad words it utters as it tolls ELEVEN,

“Almost too late to enter Heaven.”

Now it’s TWELVE, and midnight—the die is cast,

’Tis Heaven or Hell for your soul at last.

Each tick of the clock, says, “Come to Me,

Your soul will be soon in ETERNITY.”

—Hugh Kane

Jesus is the children’s Friend,

Loving, faithful to the end;

Richest gifts from Him descend,

Joy and peace.

’Twas our sinful souls to save

Thus His precious blood He gave;

Ransomed now from sin’s dark grave

We may sing.

Memory Verse “HE THAT COVERETH HIS SINS SHALL NOT PROSPER: BUT WHOSO CONFESTH AND FORSAKETH THEM SHALL HAVE MERCY.” Proverbs 28:13.

ML-01/12/1969

The Story of Moses: The Man of God

Exodus 11:4-10

“AND MOSES said, Thus saith the LORD, about midnight will I go out into the midst of Egypt: and all the firstborn of Pharaoh in the land of Egypt shall die, from the firstborn of Pharaoh that sitteth upon his throne, even unto the firstborn of the maidservant that is behind the mill; and all the firstborn of beasts.”

Pharaoh’s refusal to bow to God had, in effect, signed the death warrant of the firstborn throughout the whole land. The eldest was the chief successor, the one in whom the family hopes rested, the pride of each household. What a great disaster confronted the land in view of Moses’ warning! All the greatness, the power, and the wealth of the mightiest monarch in the world in that day could not keep the death angel from entering the royal palace. Nor was the lowest of servants exempt from the decree of death. Even the beasts would feel the blow. When death would strike in all the households of the Egyptians, they were warned that, “There shall be a great cry throughout all the land of Egypt, such as there was none like it, nor shall be like it any more.”

What a solemn reminder this is of a greater doom soon to fall on this world, where Satan, its present ruler, now holds sway and opposes everything that is of God and His people. But when that judgment falls it will not be upon the firstborn only, but all will come under its stroke; young and old alike who have refused to heed the voice of God, will perish. Then Satan, utterly defeated, will be cast into the lake of fire, and there with him shall be all who have followed him and refused God and Christ.

And what of the Israelites on that solemn night? Was the threat of death before them, too? Yes, the destroying angel was to pass through all the land and look upon the houses of Israel as well as those of the Egyptians. Yet, Moses expressed no fear for his people as he proclaimed: “But against any of the children of Israel shall not a dog move his tongue, against man or beast: that ye may know how that the LORD doth put a difference between the Egyptians and Israel.” It will soon be seen what made the difference and why the “great cry” to be heard would be only from the lips of the Egyptians.

God would not only bring the rebellious land into judgment, but He would compel the servants of Pharaoh to come and bow in humility before the one whom they had rejected. “And all these thy servants shall come down unto me, and bow down themselves unto me,” Moses foretold. Thus he again presents a picture of Christ, the One presently rejected and despised by the world, but before whom every knee shall bow and whom every tongue shall confess as Lord. Thus, as the psalmist has declared: “The wrath of man shall praise Thee.” Is it not better, beloved reader, to bow the knee now and own Him both Saviour and Lord, while it is yet the day of grace?

Although forewarned of this dreadful death among his people, Pharaoh continued with hardened heart “so that he would not let the children of Israel go out of his land.”

ML-01/12/1969

Tippy the Hero

JIM WAS spending a day at Muskrat lake, north of Grand Rapids, Michigan. He brought his dog Tippy along, for both were good friends, and he knew that Tippy was a good protector.

All of a sudden Jim and Tippy saw a rattlesnake in the grass. It was about to strike at Jim, when Tippy attacked the snake, and instead of biting Jim, the snake bit the dog. Soon after the snake was killed by neighbors.

How thankful Jim was that Tippy had saved his life. He rushed the dog to a veterinary, who helped him rover from his wound. Tippy is fine now, and no master is more pleased with his dog than Jim. Tippy even had his picture in the newspaper, with Jim looking on!

How thankful we should be, too, that the Lord Jesus took our punishment on the cross. He suffered there for your sins and mine so that we wouldn’t have to bear our punishment in hell. What a wonderful Saviour He is! “Who His own Self bare our sins in His own body on the tree... by whose stripes ye were healed.” 1 Peter 2:24.

I hope that everyone reading this little paper can say, “The Son of God, Who loved me, and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20. The Lord Jesus died for everyone, but can you say, He died for me? We must make it a personal matter, for Jesus is a personal Saviour; we must make Him our own.

“He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.” Isaiah 53:5.

ML-01/19/1969

"I Really Mean It"

TWO BOYS, attending a gospel service, were hesitating whether they would remain for the prayer meeting. One said, “Come along, George, don’t stop!”

“No, I’m going to stop and give my heart to God,” returned George.

“Come along,” said his companion, pulling him.

“No, Henry, I really mean it,” and he did.

Only about three weeks after, I had a letter telling me of his death.

It seems he went to spend the Saturday afternoon with a companion, and was playing at soldiers. His friend caught up his father’s rifle in play, and pulled the trigger, but, to his horror, it was loaded, and the little fellow fell. His mother was just in time to hear him say, “It’s all right, Mother, I’m trusting Jesus!”

“Boast not thyself of to-morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.” Proverbs 27:1. “Prepare to meet thy God.” Amos 4:12.

“For He saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succored thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:2.

ML-01/19/1969

"I Know Something Better Than That"

“You KNOW,” said a Christian lady who was visiting a young girl, “that Jesus died for us?”

“Yes,” said the girl, “but I know something better than that; I know He died for me!”

There is no truth more important in Scripture than this—“Jesus died for me.” How many there are who readily own the truth that “He died for all,” but who have never applied this blessed truth to their own hearts personally. A mere head knowledge will never do. God wishes it to be a blessed and happy reality in your heart.

“The Son of God Who loved me, and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20

ML-01/19/1969

The Toy Sermon

“And the streets of the city shall be full of boys and girls playing in the streets thereof.” Zechariah 8:5.

“They are like unto children singing in the market place, and calling one to another, and saying, We have piped unto you and ye have not danced; we have mourned to you and ye have not wept.” Luke 7:32.

What does it mean? Why, these children had been trying to please their companions, but they could not! First they offered to have a game of piping and dancing, but that did not please them; then they suggested a mournful funeral, but it was no good. Nothing would please these unhappy playmates. We have all seen children of that kind, or read about them in books, but I hope none of my little readers will see the likeness of one in the mirror.

The children in the Bible played just as children do nowadays. Some were nice and gentle, and kind and considerate in their games. Some were otherwise.

A child who loves the Saviour will PLAY like a little Christian, as well as learn lessons so as to please Him.

A tiny boy once had a toy given to him, and he was so pleased with it that he fairly raced around the room for joy, showing it to his friends. Presently he held it up and said, “Dear Jesus, look at my nice new toy!” I believe the blessed Lord was pleased to look at that little child’s toy and to enter into his joy in possessing it.

“Suffer the little children to COME unto Me,... And He took them ‘II in His arms,... and blessed them.’ Mark 10:14,16.

ML-01/19/1969

Sorrows of Disobedience

“WHEN I WAS a little boy,” said Dr. Todd, “my father was very ill. One day he sent me to the druggist to get some particular kind of medicine. I did not want to go, o though I didn’t realize then how really bad my father was. Before getting halfway to the druggist’s, I stopped and made up my mind to go back and tell a lie about it. So I went home and told my father that the druggist had none of that medicine left.

“My father was nearing his end then, and he said to me, ‘My dear boy, I am suffering very much for want of that medicine.’ That made me feel very badly and slipping quietly out of the door, I ran to the druggist’s and got some of the medicine. But when I came back it was too late. My father was dying. He had only time to say to me, ‘Love God, Johnnie, and always speak the truth. Now kiss me once more. Farewell!’

“In all my after life,” said Dr. Todd, “I never was able to forget that act of disobedience to my dying father, and that lie I told him. I bitterly repented of that sin, and I know God has forgiven it, and washed it all away in the blood of Jesus. But the sorrow of it has followed me all the days of my life.”

Dear children, may this be a warning against disobeying and dishonoring our parents.

ML-01/19/1969

Hushed Was the Evening Hymn

Hushed was the evening hymn,

The temple courts were dark,

The lamp was burning dim

Before the sacred ark:

When suddenly a voice divine

Rang through the silence of the shrine.

Oh, give me Samuel’s ear!

The open ear, O Lord,

Alive and quick to hear

Each whisper of Thy word;

Like him to answer at Thy call,

And to obey Thee first of all.

Oh, give me Samuel’s heart!

A lowly heart that waits

Where in Thy house Thou art,

Or watches at Thy gates,

By day and night, a heart that still

Moves at the breathing of Thy will.

Oh give me Samuel’s mind!

A sweet unmurmuring faith,

Obedient and resigned

To Thee in life and death;

That I may read with child-like eyes

Truths that are hidden from the wise.

ML-01/19/1969

The Story of Moses: The Man of God

Exodus 12:1,2

“AND THE LORD spake unto Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt, saying, This month shall be unto you the beginning of months: it shall be the first month of the year to you.” It was to be a new beginning for the children of Israel. At God’s direction they were to have a new calendar to mark their days. Henceforth they were to put Egypt and its attachments behind them, and their walk was now to be with the Lord. It would be a new life for them.

Time counts for nothing before God as long as the sinner is in his sins. Until we are sheltered under the blood of Christ we have not bun to live in His sight. The years we lived before we are born again are all wasted time as far as He is concerned. To continue in that condition is a very solemn thing, for every day of that period but adds to our guilt, and should we pass into eternity unsaved, every sin will be brought into judgment at the great white throne.

When Nicodemus came to Jesus by night, the Lord Jesus said to him: “Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” Nicodemus had difficulty with these words and inquired: “How can a man be born when he is old?” The Saviour replied: “That which is born of the flesh is flesh; and that which is born of the Spirit is spirit.” John 3:3-6. When a lost sinner, through faith in Christ, is brought into the good of God’s redemption, “he is a new creation: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 2 Corinthians 5:17. He is “born again.” The new life which begins the moment of his “new birth,” makes as dead all that was associated with the old. Is this not a wonderful position to be in?

If God was about to bring judgment on the Egyptians, how could He pass over the children of Israel, 1 for they were sinners and deserved the same judgment? God is holy and must punish sin. How could he spare the firstborn of Israel, while slaying the firstborn of Egypt. “The wages of sin is death,” and the wages must be paid. Either the firstborn in every home must die, or a substitute must be provided. Moreover, it must be a substitute which God would accept. No other would do; no other means could be found. But, blessed be God, He did tell them of the substitute; He would provide redemption for them through the blood of the Passover lamb, sprinkled on the doorpost and lintel as the means the only means — of safety from the angel of death that dark night in Egypt. God saw prefigured in that Passover lamb His own dear Son, the Lamb of God, slain on the cross, through whose shed blood redemption would avail for all who believe. Thus He could accredit the faith of the Israelites in the blood of their Passover lamb as a means of their salvation. He assured them that He would accept this substitute, saying, “When I see the blood, I will pass over you.” How precious and assuring! Thus this wonderful day in their history was ever after to be to them “the beginning of months.”

Memory Verse “LOOK UNTO ME, AND BE YE SAVED, ALL THE ENDS OF THE EARTH: FOR I AM GOD, AND THERE IS NONE ELSE.”

Isaiah 45:22.

ML-01/19/1969

Runaway Jack

ACANADIAN boy ran away from his home. I often wonder what made him do it, for he had a loving father and mother who cared for him and looked after him well.

But Jack wanted his own way, so one day he slipped out of the house when no one was about. He took his savings from his money box, and replaced the money with stones, so that it should not be noticed he had emptied the box.

He went to the river, and finding a boat anchored there, he jumped in and rowed to the other side. In his hurry he did not secure the boat properly, and he left a jacket in it. He then bought a ticket to a place some distance away, and gradually made his way to the American border.

Can you imagine the anxiety of his parents when he did not return, and when later the boat was discovered with the telltale jacket lying in the bottom? They feared he had fallen into the river and every yard was dredged in an effort to find his body.

Four days passed and he was gin up for dead. Oh! the sorrow in that home, caused by a thoughtless boy going his own way, and seeking his own pleasure! And there is sure to be trouble and sorrow as a result of taking our own way. All this Jack found out, not only for himself, but it brought anxiety and distress to those who loved him most.

Just as the heartbroken parents had given up all hope of finding their boy, a phone message was received from the frontier guards at the American town where he had gone. Jack had been stopped as he was trying to get into the States. He had no identification card with him, and when he was questioned the truth had come out.

Who can describe the joy of those parents when they heard the good news that their son, whom they feared was dead, was alive; the lost one had been found! How they longed to see their boy again!

When he arrived back a loving welcome was given him. No mention was made of his sin in running away from home. When they were all seated at the table to partake of their first meal together after Jack’s return, the father as his custom was, asked God’s blessing and in simple words thanked Him for His love and mercy in restoring their son to them. Mother could not refrain from crying, and Jack’s eyes too filled with tears. It was then that Jack learned for the first time what his sin had cost his parents and how dearly they loved him. His sorrow and repentance were very real, and before the meal was begun he knew he had his parents’ forgiveness.

This story reminds me how God receives back the wandering one to Himself. If you read the 15th chapter of Luke you will find a beautiful story there of the way God welcomes the returning prodigal. We are told too of the joy in heaven over one repenting sinner.

“There is joy in heaven tonight,

And the angels all look on,

For it is not their’s that deep delight,

Though their praise swells loud at the glorious sight

Of another repentant one.”

Dear young reader, has there been joy in heaven over you? Have you repented of your sins and returned to the Lord. We were all prodigals once, for “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on Him [Jesus] the iniquity of us all.” Isaiah 53:6.

“I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.” Luke 15:10.

ML-01/26/1969

Jesus Loves Me

IN THE crowded railway train,

Dimpled cheek against the pane,

Sang a baby, soft and low:

“Desus loves me, ‘is I know.”

Then unconscious, clear and strong,

“Ittle ones to Him belong,”

Rose the dear voice at our side;

“Desus loves me, He who died.”

Hushed the hum of voices near,

Hoary heads bent low to hear,

“Desus loves me, ‘is I know,

For da Bible tells me so.”

So mid silence, tearful, deep,

Baby sang herself to sleep,

“Desus loves me, He who died,

Heaven’s gate to open wide.”

But the darling never knew

How the message sweet and true,

Raised one heart from dull despair

To the “love” that lightens care.

But I think, beside the King

I shall some day hear her sing

“Jesus loves me, this I know,

For the Bible tells me so.”

ML-01/26/1969

Christian Courage

DURING the World War a captain noticed a private in the trench reading a pocket New Testament. He hated God, so sneered at the private, saying, “What are you doing with that Book? It will make you as cowardly as an old woman.”

“Not at all, sir,” said the private. “Since I came to read and understand this Book I have no fear of death.”

At that moment a shell dropped in the trench and the private was blown to bits. The captain saw the Book was unharmed, so he took it to his dugout and read it. Light shone into his darkened heart. He turned to the Lord whom he found gracious, and ready to receive him. Then he got leave and led his family to God. When he went back to the battlefield, he took a large quantity of New Testaments along which he distributed to the men in the trenches, and thus became a bright testimony for Christ there.

ML-01/26/1969

Noah's Ark

THE STORY of Noah’s ark has excited the interest of children for many centuries. How wonderful it was that a large vessel should carry Noah and his family and all those animals over the flood waters of judgment to safety! Think of God’s goodness in saving their lives, and yet those animals perhaps scarcely knew what God had done for them. And how many people do not realize what God has done for them either. They do not stop to consider what sinners they are in God’s sight, and that they deserve to be banished from His presence forever. Many never realize until it is too late how that they could have been saved, for the Lord Jesus came into this world to save sinners, and they did not confess Him as their Saviour.

The ark is a type of the Lord Jesus, for those animals were safe inside when the flood waters came. The Lord Jesus said, “I am the door: by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved.” John 10:9. We need to come to the one and only door to heaven to be saved. There was only one door in the ark, and all the animals had to come in through that one door. They may have had many different experiences in getting to the ark, but there was only one door through which to enter, and there is only one door into heaven. That door is Christ. There is no other way.

One night I attended a business meeting and had to park my car at the back of the building. Rather than walk around to the front, I thought I would find a shortcut. I tried one door, then another, and another, but all were locked. Finally, I went around to the front and got in; but I had walked twice as far in the meantime before taking the right way.

How did all those animals find their way into the ark? Doubtless, the hand of God, their Creator, was over them and guided them. He sent them by a right way. Today you can come to God by the right way and enter into life and peace through that one door, the Lord Jesus Christ.

A little child of seven,

Or even three or four,

May enter into heaven

Through Christ the open door.

For when the heart believeth,

On Christ, the Son of God,

Tis then the soul receiveth

Salvation through His blood.

Did you ever think that each of the animals in the ark might have a story for us? Let us look at some of these animals in the weeks to come and see what each can tell us about ourselves and the finished work of Christ.

ML-01/26/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 12:3-5

“SPEAK YE unto all the congregation of Israel, saying, In the tenth day of this month they shall take to them every man a lamb, according to the house of their fathers, a lamb for a house.” Thus before ever the details of their deliverance from Egypt were made known to them, the children of Israel were directed to the provision of a lamb. God was about to deal in judgment with man’s sin, and the sprinkled blood of the slain lamb became the sole means of security. In the same way sinners now who seek safety from the judgment of God against sin, who would be set free from Satan’s toil and the bondage of sin have their attention directed to Jesus, “the Lamb of God,” for it is only through Him that salvation is offered and rests secure.

This was to be a very special lamb, and the message was to be delivered to “all the congregation.” No one would be denied the opportunity to avail himself of God’s way of escape. Furthermore it was necessary for every individual to personally act on the word of the Lord: “they shall take to them every man a lamb.” There must be the personal identification with the shed blood through faith, just as today God requires individual faith on the part of the sinner who hears the gospel message, otherwise as far as he is concerned, the blood will have been shed in vain. The belief or confessions of a congregation with which one may be identified, or the earnest faith of parents or members of one’s family will not suffice; there must be individual faith. “He that heareth My word, and believeth on Him that sent Me, hath everlasting life.”

The lamb was to be taken on the tenth day of the month and kept up until the fourteenth day when it was sacrificed. This speaks to us of how Christ was set apart in the counsels of God in that past eternity, “foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you.” 1 Peter 1:20. He who by the eternal Spirit offered up Himself to God, was the One who in the counsels of God was foreordained to be the means of redemption for sinful ruined man. The number ten speaks of responsibility God-ward, and teaches us that before our blessed Lord was publicly owned as the Lamb of God, He had met every responsibility before God, was proved to be without blemish, qualified by what He was in Himself to be the sacrifice for sin. He was God’s Lamb, and how precious to know that the lamb was of God’s providing.

In selecting the sacrificial lamb, it was not to be taken carelessly or at random from the flock. “Your lamb shall be without blemish, a male of the first year.” This Passover lamb was to prefigure the perfect Lamb of God who in the appointed time would be offered up. A male of the first year speaks of strength and vigor, and so it was that the Lord Jesus was in the full strength of perfect manhood when He endured the Cross for us.

Memory Verse “ALL THEY THAT GO DOWN TO THE DUST SHALL BOW BEFORE HIM, AND NONE CAN KEEP ALIVE HIS OWN SOUL.” Psalms 22:29.

ML-01/26/1969

Saved From a Lion

A MISSIONARY who spent fifty years in Africa told the story of a native boy who had attended the gospel meetings they had held in his village.

One day along with some of his companions he was out hunting. They were in full and eager pursuit of some animal when suddenly and unexpectedly the boy found himself face to face with a great lion, and almost touching him. His black face seemed as if it would turn white with fear, and his companions were almost as frightened as himself. They were a little farther off and saw his danger, but they were unable to help him. What could the poor boy do? What would the rear do in such a circumstance?

In that awful moment the poor boy thought of Jesus, the mighty Saviour, whose love is as great as His power, and of whom he had heard the missionary speak so often. In his terrible danger and distress he cried out, in the hearing of his companions: “O Jesus! save me now, and I will serve Thee forever!”

Soon after he had prayed, the King of beasts turned around and, without touching the boy, walked quietly off into the jungle, and disappeared.

The African lad never forgot that hour. Wherever he went the thought followed him, “Jesus saved me from that lion.” And he thought of another lion he had heard spoken of in the Bible, who though not seen with the natural eye, nevertheless is a real person, even Satan, who “as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” 1 Peter 5:8. Then he prayed earnestly to the Lord Jesus to deliver him from this lion, too, and the Saviour answered his prayer. Our little African found rest and peace in believing, and he became an earnest follower of the Saviour, who loves and gave Himself for sinners. He learned that the Lord Jesus by His death and resurrection had both saved him from the judgment of God against his sins and had overcome the power of Satan.

“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus.” Romans 8:1. Furthermore, Satan cannot harm those that are “in Christ,” who have passed from death unto life, for they shall never perish and none can pluck them out of His hand (John 10:27-29).

No condemnation! — No separation! Nothing shall be able to separate them from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. (Rom. 8:35-39.)

ML-02/02/1969

The Many Mansions

I WAS once spending the afternoon with the children of a Sunday school. One of the girls had asked me to come and speak to them about Jesus. I was glad I went, and I will tell you why presently.

I gave them a simple address about the love of Jesus. A great many bright faces were turned tards me while I spoke, but I little thought that there were two present that I should never see again.

One of these was Fanny, who had asked me to come. She knew me very well, because I used to live next door to her.

I believe the good Shepherd was gently drawing her heart to Himself.

A day or two afterward she was taken suddenly ill, but before she passed away, she was able to speak of the love of Jesus, and of being washed in His precious blood.

When she saw her father and mother crying, she begged that they would not weep for her. As she drew near her end she cried, “O, how beautiful!” “Mamma, the walls are all jasper!”

Then she said, “Jesus has done it all,” and asked a friend to read John 14, about the mansions Jesus went to prepare, and soon after this, she went to be with Jesus in those very mansions.

I know whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep that which I have committed unto him against that day.

2 Tim. 1:12.

ML-02/02/1969

Little Bobby's Question

LITTLE Bobby asked his father at the dinner table, “Daddy, why don’t you read the Bible?”

His father was a passionate man, and was about to drive the boy out of his presence, but his anger made the little fellow weep. That brought tears to the mother’s eyes, and then the father followed suit. His boy’s tears moved him, and the question struck his heart; and father and mother, up to that hour unconverted, were soon on their way to the gospel meeting, where they both found the Lord Jesus as their Saviour.

“Out of the mouths of babes and sucklings Thou hast perfected praise.” Matt. 21:16.

ML-02/02/1969

The Shepherd Who Died

I DO NOT think I can be one of Jesus’ lambs,” little Philip sobbed out, as he lay in his father’s arms.

“And why so?” inquired his father.

“Because I do not feel I am,” Phil replied.

After trying in various ways to comfort the heart of his little boy, and yet being very anxious not to say one word which should lead his child to think lightly of what it is to be a sinner, his father repeated this text: “The blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7. These words satisfied the child at once. Do you, dear young friend, know their sweetness?

ML-02/02/1969

The Young People's Class: The Christ

1. What remark did Martha make (thus expressing the Jewish expectation) concerning THE CHRIST? John 11.

2. What were the Samaritans expecting in THE CHRIST? John 4.

3. What answer did Jesus give when asked if He were THE CHRIST? Mark 14.

4. What did Peter (as well as ourselves) learn when he owned Jesus as THE CHRIST? Matt. 16.

5. What is the reward to those who even now believe that Jesus is THE CHRIST? John 20.

6. What is said of those that deny that Jesus is THE CHRIST? I John.

7. What should characterize those who believe Jesus is THE CHRIST? I John.

The Story of Moses, The Man of God

Ex. 12:6

IN HIS instructions to the children of Israel regarding the Passover lamb, the Lord said they were to take a lamb on the tenth day of the month; then He told them: “Ye shall keep it up until the fourteenth day.” These four days would tell of how it was in those deep eternal counsels that God had devised His plan of salvation for fallen man—long bore man had been introduced into this world, or sin had brought its awful penalty. How wonderful the eternal love of God shown here! When man fell through sin, God was not confronted with a circumstance for which He had no provision. All was determined long before.

During those four days before the Passover, the Israelite could look repeatedly on the lamb which was to be his substitute, whose blood would shelter him from God’s judgment. The Lord Jesus also was manifested thus during His earthly walk, His moral glories and perfections shining out all along His pathway. John the Baptist, “looking upon Jesus as He walked,” could say, “Behold the Lamb of God.” What a delight to the heart of one who knows that blessed Saviour to let his soul’s gaze rest on Him and to contemplate His immeasurable love in becoming the willing victim and in making atonement for our sins. One day soon we shall be in His presence in the glory and gaze without distraction upon His blessed face forever.

There with unwearied gaze

Our eyes on Him we’ll rest;

And satisfy in endless praise

A heart supremely blest.

“And the whole assembly of the congregation of Israel shall kill it in the evening.” All must be identified with the slain lamb. No matter how perfect the lamb might be in appearance—no matter how appearing it might be to the emotions of those who looked on it—it would have no value to them whatsoever unless it were slain. In every house the message was the same: “kill it in the evening.” How many there are today who are satisfied to see in Jesus one worthy of admiration, One whose life was “without blemish,” One worthy to be proclaimed as a great and good moral example, a leader of men; yet these convictions will not avail when it comes to the salvation of the soul. The Lord Jesus must be seen, above all else, as the Sin-bearer, the One who was slain on Calvary, “the Just for the unjust, to bring us to God.” His moral beauties and perfections proclaimed His qualification to die for our sins, yet it is only through faith in Him as the slain One that salvation can be known. The lamb, slain in the evening, reminds us that as the Lamb of God He “was manifest in these last times for you.” 1 Peter 1:20.

Memory Verse “THE WAGES OF SIN IS DEATH; BUT THE GIFT OF GOD IS ETERNAL LIFE THROUGH JESUS CHRIST OUR LORD.”

Rom. 6:23.

ML-02/02/1969

Two Snow Storms

MANY years ago, in a log cabin that stood in the middle of a field, close by the shore of Lake Michigan, a settler family gathered around the lamp. Supper was over, a big fire blazed on the hearth, and the shutters were bolted and barred, for in those days the dread of Indian prowlers was on every settler’s home. The thought of the Red man creeping stealthily up with tomahawk was never absent.

On this particular night the snow, intense, bitter, biting cold, was driving before the wind. The lake was storm tossed and furious, with wild waves booming on the shore. But over the door of the Ellesler’s cabin a rosy light shone out, for the mother had compassion on the wayfarer, stumbling through the darkness.

Inside sat the father and mother, sturdy boys, a blue-eyed daughter, and the darling baby asleep in the cradle. Eight o’clock struck and the father took down the large print leather bound Bible and began to read. The 23rd Psalm was chosen. The Lord is my Shepherd. I shall not want.... The psalm being ended they sang together:

“How firm a foundation, ye saints of the Lord,

Is laid for your faith in His excellent Word;

What more can He say than to you He has said,

Who unto the Saviour for refuge have fled?”

Then the father prayed. The little daughter always remembered how fervent, how glad and how tender those prayers were.

As the family rose from their knees that stormy night, they heard at first a low knocking, growing increasingly louder, and voices crying, “Let us in, let us in, we have wandered from the way! Let us in before we perish! If you have human hearts let us in and dinna wait!”

Reuben, the father, looked at Phebe who returned the look and then said, “Open the door, dear, we cannot deny shelter to any this night.”

Reuben unbarred the door letting in a wild gust of wind and a great blast of snow. Then in tottered a man who had battled with the cold and the gathering darkness for hours; his wife, bundled up in shawls and furs, had her baby in her arms.

“Deed, and we are lost, and we heard you pray and the sound guided us and we were no feared to knock where Christians prayed to God.”

Three days and nights passed bore the tempest was over. Warmed and fed, the McMurdo family went on their way. Mr. Ellesler took them many miles in his sleigh. At their feet was a bountiful lunch provided by his wife.

Twenty-five years passed. Reuben Ellesler started out from his now prosperous city home to keep an appointment. But after alighting from his train, he started out to walk to his destination, and was caught in a blinding snow storm. He struggled on for hours, lost and almost frozen, when suddenly a great light glowed before him and a path of light over the snow led him straight to a house. Kind hands were soon busy rubbing him and offering him food and drink.

To his surprise he found that his kind friends were the McMurdos, the very people he had rescued twenty-five years before. And as he lay under soft blankets, with warmth and comfort, and deliverance from death filling him with great thankfulness, Reuben Ellesler heard a song of praise in the room below —

“How firm a foundation ye saints of the Lord,

Is laid for your faith in His excellent Word.”

ML-02/09/1969

My Best Text

“MOTHER,” said a little girl on coming home from the Sunday school, “I want to ask you something.”

“Well, dear, what is it?”

“Do you know which is my best text?”

“Tell me, my dear,” replied her mother.

“Well, Mother, you know that I’m just seven years old, and my little text has just seven words in it, and this is it: " ‘It is time to seek the Lord.’ "

“SEEK YE FIRST THE KINGDOM OF GOD, AND HIS RIGHTEOUSNESS; AND ALL THESE THINGS SHALL BE ADDED UNTO YOU.” Matthew 6:33.

ML-02/09/1969

All Things Bright and Beautiful

All things bright and beautiful,

All creatures great and small,

All things wise and wonderful,

The Lord God made them all.

Each little flower that opens,

Each little bird that sings

He made their glowing colors,

He made their tiny wings.

The rich man in his castle,

The poor man at the gate,

God made them, high or lowly,

And ordered their estate.

The purple-headed mountain,

The river running by,

The sunset, and the morning

That brightens up the sky.

The cold wind in the winter,

The pleasant summer sun,

The ripe fruits in the garden,

He made them every one.

He gave us eyes to see them,

And lips that we might tell

How great is God Almighty,

Who hath done all things well.

Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.

ML-02/09/1969

The Lion

THE LION is a majestic animal but one I would not want to meet in an open field. He is the strongest and fiercest of beasts. Even a huge elephant steers away from him. Everyone respects him and leaves him alone.

Satan is pictured as a lion in 1 Peter 5:8: “The devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” Satan likes to catch boys and girls and keep them away from Jesus. He watches us all the time, looking for a chance to catch us or do us harm.

I remember one day I was in a large zoo walking through the lions’ house. I turned the corner and there was a huge lion looking at me. I was glad those big bars were between us. He kept looking at me, wagging his tail, and when I took a step he turned his head. Every step I took he kept turning his head. As I walked back in front of the cage he kept his eyes on me all the time. I didn’t trust him; I knew what he would do if he could get hold of me.

Boys and girls, that old lion, the devil, is watching you, and if you haven’t taken the Lord Jesus Christ as your Saviour, you are in the grip of Satan. He is tightening that grip on you every time you say, “No” to God’s invitation to come to Jesus. The Lord Jesus is the only One who can keep you safe and protect you forever.

Decide for Christ today,

And God’s salvation see;

Yield soul and body, heart and will,

To Him who died for thee!

Christ alone can save.

ML-02/09/1969

The Story of Moses: The Man of God

Exodus 12:7

“AND THEY shall take the blood, and strike it on the two side posts and on the upper door post of the houses, wherein they shall eat it.”

The slain lamb in itself would not have protected an Israelite household. If the people had rested only in the fact that the lamb had been slain, the death angel would have entered their dwellings just as it did the Egyptians. It was the sprinkling of the blood that secured their safety. Are there not those who seem to rest in the fact that Christ has died, yet who have never put themselves under the shelter of His precious blood. They can speak of Him as our Saviour, but know not the language of faith of the one who can call Him “my Saviour.” The death of Christ will not save a soul apart from faith in Himself. Christ in His death has so glorified God in all that He is that God can offer par-, don and everlasting salvation to the sinner that comes to Him through faith in the value of that death. But if there be not personal identification with the blood through faith, as far as that one is concerned, it is shed in vain.

God placed immense value on the blood of the lamb as it spoke of the blood of His own dear Son, who would shed His blood for the remission of sins. The blood was to be employed in strict obedience to His word if they were to have its value applied to their own need.

The death of the firstborn would be required at every house in the land, Egyptian and Israelite alike. It would take the firstborn of all who were unprotected, but the sprinkled blood outside the door would mean escape from death, for it would tell of the death of the substitute lamb as having already satisfied God’s judgment. Thus those obedient to God’s word could await the midnight hour free from fear and in peace, knowing that whereas the blood spoke of death having taken place, death would not strike again.

As the life of the innocent lamb was taken, its blood was put in a basin. Then a bunch of hyssop was dipped in the blood and the blood sprinkled “on the two side posts and on the upper door post.” It was not to be sprinkled on the threshold. God will not have man trample underfoot that which spoke of the blood of His dear Son.

The blood then on the doorposts was a witness that those within had accepted God’s provision of safety from the coming judgment. God had said: “When I see the blood, I will pass over you.” This was the ground of their peace. Any doubts as to their safety on the part of those sheltered there would have been dishonoring to God. Yet had they been in fear and trembling they would not have been any less secure. Furthermore, it was not a question of personal worthiness, or of feelings. The believer’s part now is faith, not feelings. “Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:1.

ML-02/09/1969

Little Charles

YEARS AGO a man who lived in I Northern Michigan became seriously ill, and went by train to town to see a doctor. On his way home while waiting in the station for his train, he chatted with another traveler to whom he told the reason for his journey. The doctor had said he could only live a few months longer.

“How do you feel about leaving this world?” asked his companion. “Have you thought about what is coming after death?”

“Oh,” said the sick man, “I do not fear death.”

“Why?” asked the other.

The sick man then told him how it had come about: It is a short but beautiful story of faith in the holy Word of God.

He had lived all his life among the pines. Neither he nor his wife could read; they had seldom heard a sermon, and although they knew what the Bible is, they did not own one.

Their little boy, Charles, had gone to school one winter and had learned to read. One day he met a man on the road who spoke to him and gave him a New Testament. It followed that at night, when the day’s work was done, and while all sat around the fire, Charles would read to his father and mother from his Testament. One night he read from 1 Timothy 1 until he came to verse 15 “This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.”

“Stop!” said his father. “Mary, listen to that! We are sinners and Christ Jesus came into the world to save us. Isn’t that good?”

“Yes,” said his wife; “that is good. Let us thank God for it.”

And in their humble cabin, on their knees before God, they thanked Him for His great gift, which in simple faith they had just accepted.

“And,” said the sick man, in telling the story, “why should I be afraid to die, when Christ Jesus has saved me?”

So the little boy was a link in the chain of blessing in that home. It was a joyful message which fell on the ears of those repentant sinners and they received it with joy. Rear, have you received this same wonderful message and believed it?

ML-02/16/1969

The Bear

I DO NOT know of any little creature that is cuter when it is small than a bear. He is such a playful, roly-poly little fellow. Cubs have little sense of danger and rely entirely on their mother for protection. They go on like this for some time, until they are on their own. A young bear cub is easy to tame, but the older it becomes the harder it is to capture and it cannot adjust to a new way of life easily.

This is the way with boys and girls who run and play and have a good time, trusting in their parents for everything. But some day they must make their own decisions.

Today is a day of decision: what will you say to God’s invitation to come to Jesus and be saved? The longer you wait and put it off, the harder your heart will be; you will not want to be captured by God’s love. Yes, God’s love is what captures the heart because no one loves you like God and Christ. Napoleon, the great French general and Emperor, said concerning Christ, “He has won more by His love than I have with all my cannons.”

The longer we wait to be saved, the more tied we are “by the cords of our own sins.” We are caught in Satan’s trap, a net of destruction. It is said that sins are the little cords that make up Satan’s net. He wants you to refuse God’s invitation. But oh, dear young friends, prove God’s love today. Come to the Lord Jesus, submit to His will, ask Him to save your precious soul and tame that wild heart of yours, that you might enjoy His love and care, not only in this world but in eternity to come.

ML-02/16/1969

Yet There Is Room

Yet there is room! The Lamb’s bright hall of song,

With its fair glory, beckons thee along;

Room, room, still room!

O, enter, enter now!

Day is declining and the sun is low:

The shadows lengthen, light makes haste to go.

The bridal hall is filling for the feast;

Pass in, pass in, and be the Bridegroom’s guest.

It fills, it fills, that hall of jubilee!

Make haste, make haste: ’tis not too full for thee.

Yet there is room! Still open stands the gate,

The gate is love; it is not yet too late.

Pass in, pass in! That banquet is for thee:

That cup of everlasting love is free.

Louder and sweeter sounds the loving call,

Come, lingerer, come; enter that festal hall.

Ere night that gate may close, and seal thy doom:

Then the last low, long cry,

“No room! no room!”

ML-02/16/1969

Foolish Dick's Conversion

THERE lived in the west of England a well-known character called “Foolish Dick.” One day, he was going for a pitcher of water, when a good old man hailed him with, “So, Dick, you are going to the Well?”

“Yes,” he replied.

“Well, Dick, the woman of Saria found Jesus at the well.” “Did she?” was the answer.

“Yes.”

The remark, riveted on Dick’s mind by the Holy Spirit, awakened Dick. He thought, “Oh that I could find Him!” He prayed, and soon he found Christ at the well.

“If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink.” John 7:37.

BELIEVE

These are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.

John 20:31.

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

ML-02/16/1969

Afraid of God

IT WAS while visiting in the city A hospital that I first met Gertrude, the young lady I wish to tell you about in this story. She had come from Finland, and could not speak English very well. However, in broken English she did say, “Me die; me afraid of God.” She could not read English, but I noticed on the table beside her bed a copy of the New Testament in Finnish. Taking it up, I found the chapters and verses I wished to show her, and as I pointed them out she read them slowly. Finally I turned to John 5:24, and she read those precious words of the long Saviour: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth My word, and believeth on Him that sent Me, HATH everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.”

For a while she pondered those wonderful words of life and then, laying her head back on her pillow she said, “Me not afraid.”

Dear young friends, the precious love of Jesus had won another heart for Himself; His love had cast out all her fear, for “There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear.” 1 John 4:18.

When I called on her a week later she said, “Me write to my mother in Finland and tell her about it.”

How good it was to hear her say this, for I believe it was proof that she had trusted the Saviour, and was ready to meet God.

How is it with you, dear reader? Have you told someone the good news that you have trusted the Saviour? If not, He waits now to save you. Time is short; He may come at any moment. Be wise, and neglect not this great salvation.

Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ today and you will be able to say by His grace, “I am not afraid.”

ML-02/16/1969

Bible Talks: The Story of Moses the Man of God

Exodus 12:8,9

THE LAMB having been slain and its blood sprinkled on the doorposts of their dwellings, the children of Israel were to remain inside until the morning. Inside they could well be at peace, knowing that God saw the blood outside, for He had said, “When I see the blood I will pass over you.” Peace with God is founded upon the blood of Christ. It is God’s estimation of the blood of His dear Son that makes it effective in clearing away all sin and guilt from His sight. His love tard His people has found the means of satisfying His justice. The moment His eye rests on the blood of Jesus, His whole moral nature is satisfied, and He as righteously spares those who are under its protection, as He smites the Egyptians.

“And they shall eat the flesh in that night, roast with fire, and unleavened bread; and with bitter herbs they shall eat it.” “Roast with fire” speaks of the Lord Jesus, God’s Lamb, enduring the wrath of God when He bore our sins in His own body on the tree. In the unleavened bread we have the thought of purity, holiness and the absence of evil. The only way we can enjoy thinking of Christ in His sufferings and death is to walk in separation from evil. The “bitter herbs” speak of repentance and self-judgment in the presence of God, as we think of what it cost the Lord Jesus to put away our sins.

Furthermore, they were not to eat of it raw, for we cannot have part with Christ except through His death. It was not to be “sodden” (or boiled) with water. The Lord Jesus was exposed to the full, unsparing judgment of God against our sins on the cross. “His head with his legs, and with the purtenance thereof"—all the thoughts, the actions, and the inward motives of the Lord Jesus were part of the sacrifice He made and which was of such infinite delight to God. How wonderful the love of God that He should deliver up His beloved Son to such a death for us!

The children of Israel were to feast upon the lamb at the same time their safety was secured by the blood on the door. They would think of how that blood was screening them from judgment on that memorable night, while they feasted in safety within on the lamb that had passed through the fire instead of them. The solemnity of death was felt. Surely their hearts must have been lifted up in praise and thanksgiving to God that night for the grace that had provided such a means of deliverance and safety.

Thus we have in the Passover the blood sprinkled and the lamb roast with fire. The believer, enjoying communion with his Lord and Saviour, knowing the world’s fare cannot satisfy, will certainly hunger for nothing else than Christ.

Memory Verse “LOOK UNTO ME, AND BE YE SAVED, ALL THE ENDS OF THE EARTH: FOR I AM GOD, AND THERE IS NONE ELSE.” Isaiah 45:22.

ML-02/16/1969

A Sailor's Escape

A SMALL ship was once sailing down the coast of Africa on its way to the Cape of Good Hope. The vessel was manned by a crew of two white men and nine Negroes. One morning the breeze died away suddenly, and the crew had to drop anchor within a quarter of a mile from the shore. They remained there for three days.

The men wanted to go swimming, but the mate told them it would be too dangerous, as there were alligators in the mouth of the Congo River where they were. However, one of the white seamen, named Campbell, who had been drinking, regardless of all entreaties, jumped into the water, and swam some distance away from the ship. All of a sudden those on board saw an alligator coming towards him from behind a rock which was close to the shore. Poor fellow! His death seemed close at hand, and all means of escape impossible. The mate shot at the fast-approaching alligator, but it had no effect, for the bullets glided over his scaly surface. The noise of the gun and the cries of the men made Campbell acquainted with his danger, and turning around he saw the huge alligator gaining on him. With all the strength he possessed, he made for the shore.

Campbell was almost at the shore approaching a spot where some canes and shrubs grew down from the bank. Even as he was closely pursued by the alligator, a ferocious tiger sprang from the shrubs and stood waiting for him, while the jaws of the hungry reptile were also opened wide to devour him. At this awful moment Campbell was saved!

The eager tiger gave one wild bound, but overleaped him, and falling into the water, he was seized by the alligator. A terrible struggle went on between them, but as the alligator had the advantage of keeping his prey under water, he gained the victory. It sank to the bottom, dragging the dying tiger with it. No more was seen of the alligator, for it ate the tiger instead of Campbell.

Campbell was rescued and taken by a small boat to his ship. As soon as he leaped on deck he fell on his knees and thanked God for his wonderful preservation. Up to that time he had lived a very wicked life, but the thought of the Lord’s mercy to him and that remarkable deliverance, had a profound effect on him. I have no doubt he trusted the Lord as his Saviour from thenceforth, for he was a changed man. We read in the Scriptures: “If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.” 2 Cor. 5:17.

Dear young friends, we have a far worse foe than either an alligator or a tiger. He is the devil, Satan, the enemy of our souls, and he is dragging countless souls down to hell. He seeks to make people forget that they have precious, never-dying souls, and causes them to either reject or neglect the wonderful salvation that God offers to all through Christ Jesus.

If there is one reading this story who has not put his trust in the Lord Jesus, do not let Satan deceive you any longer, but come to the Saviour while it is yet the day of salvation.

“The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.” Prov. 18:10.

“Blessed is the man to whom the Lord will not impute sin.” Rom. 4:8.

ML-02/23/1969

Sweeter Than Candy

BILL WAS a boy who sold candy on a city street corner. He lived a wild kind of life, and did many bad things.

One day Bill was invited to a gospel meeting, and there for the first time he heard the story of God’s love. He heard how God had sent His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, into the world and that whosoever believes in Him shall be saved forever.

The young fellow’s heart was touched when he heard of that love and he realized what a bad life he had led. Then and there he accepted Jesus as his own Saviour.

Some time later when Bill was out selling his candy, a gentleman stepped up to buy some chocolates.

“Have you anything sweeter than this?” he asked.

“Perhaps some toffee would be sweeter,” Bill replied.

“But haven’t you something sweeter than toffee?”

“I don’t think so,” answered Bill.

Once more the gentleman asked a question. “But do you know the sweetest thing on earth?”

Bill’s face lit up with joy, for now he knew what the man meant.

“Yes, sir,” he replied. “Down at the gospel hall we sing,

How sweet the name of Jesus sounds

In a believer’s ear.

It soothes his sorrow, heals his wounds,

And drives away his fear.

“The name of Jesus,” Bill went on, “is the sweetest sound and He Himself is sweet to me, for He is my Saviour.”

“O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in Him.” Psa. 34:8.

ML-02/23/1969

Too Late

HE OTHER day, as I was standing at the door of a hall, where a friend of mine was preaching the gospel, a little boy came up and said: “Please, sir, may I go in?”

“No, my boy,” I replied; “impossible to let you in, there is no more room.”

“But I was in there last Friday evening, and the Friday before. I am a regular one.”

“Very likely, my boy; but today you cannot go in.”

“But you said last Friday afternoon, ‘There will be a meeting for boys and girls at the hall on Friday evening, at seven.’ Why can’t I go in?”

“Look here, my boy,” I said, showing him my watch, “it is twenty minutes past seven, so you are too late. The room is full, and your being there last Friday does not take you in tonight.”

Now, dear young friends, who read this paper, I would have you remember that soon the last seat in God’s house will be occupied, and it will then be too late for you to come and knock.

“Now,” God says, “is the day of salvation.”

If you still refuse God’s invitation you may, like this little boy, be found at the door, knocking; but it will be no use. There is only one thing that can cleanse you from your sins, and make you fit for heaven; that is the blood of Christ, for we read, “The blood of Jesus Christ His [God’s] Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7.

Memory Verse “IF THOU SHALT CONFESS WITH THY MOUTH THE LORD JESUS, AND SHALT BELIEVE IN THINE HEART THAT GOD HATH RAISED HIM FROM THE DEAD, THOU SHALT BE SAVED.” Rom. 10:9.

ML-02/23/1969

Jesus Loved Me First

IT WAS AT a children’s gospel service and a very little girl stayed to the after-meeting. A kind teacher had a little talk with her, teaching her to say the text, “We love Him, because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19. Then she sent her home. The next morning she met the little one on the street and asked her if she could remember the text.

“No, teacher, I have forgotten the words, but I know what it was about.”

“Tell me what it was about, then, dear.”

“It was about, “Jesus loved me first, and then I loved Him afterwards!”

Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? -Matt. 6:26

ML-02/23/1969

The Story of Moses: The Man of God

Ex. 12:9 (Continued)

“AND THEY shall eat the flesh in that night, roast with fire... His head with his legs, and with the purtenance thereof.”

The sacrifice of the Passover lamb, as well as the eating of it, was all to be done according to God’s instructions, for how conflicting would it be if every man followed his own thoughts and inclinations! The flesh of the lamb was to be prepared in only one way—roast with fire, telling of Christ bearing the fire of God’s judgment when taking on Himself our load of sins on the cross. It was therefore to be roasted in its entirety, just as the person and work of Christ must be entirely owned—nothing omitted or counted valueless, for none of that perfect sacrifice can be omitted if He is to be claimed as Saviour.

Portions of the roast lamb were not to be eaten at random, for the word precisely stated that it was to be consumed “his head with his legs, and with the purtenance thereof.” The head tells of the mind of Christ. What a privilege it is for the believer to enter into the thoughts of our Lord Jesus, to learn of His counsels and purposes for His own, as well as for this whole world. To heed the admonition “Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus,” (Phil. 2:5), surely requires feeding spiritually on that which brings us into His thoughts.

The legs were also to be eaten. How good to dwell on the walk of that blessed One who trod earth’s pathway in such perfection—whose daily course was marked by obedience to His Father’s will, by compassion on the needy of this world, by the kindness and sympathy tard all who came to Him in their need; and who could meet with the outcast woman at Sychar’s well, or with a ruler of the Jews who came to Him by night. Yes, “eating of the legs” is a suited portion for every one who knows Him as Saviour and who would heed the admonition: “For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps.” 1 Peter 2:21.

The purtenance (or inward parts) was also given as a proper portion of this feast for it is a reminder of the heart-affection and devotedness of our Saviour. His divine affection should ever be before the believer, for the Word of God tells repeatedly of His love for His own and His dire to have them draw near to Himself. Ah, that the heart might know more of this lovely feast with its unsurpassed treasures, its sustenance and strength for each day of the journey toward our heavenly home! Soon He will return to claim His beloved, for whom He was the true Lamb, foreordained before the foundations of the world.

The Holy Spirit delights to lead the hearts of God’s people into such precious channels. May we heed the invitation to satisfy our every longing with Him who is the bread of life and the perfect Lamb of God. “Looking unto Jesus, the Author and Finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross... For consider Him that endured such contradiction of sinners against Himself, lest ye be wearied and faint in your minds.” Hebrews 12:2,3.

ML-02/23/1969

Saved in a Chicken Coop

IN A home where the father was a slave to drink and gambling, suffering and poverty reigned. A home missionary and a Christian lady who labored so faithfully at the gospel mission tried to win this family for Christ. They invited an evangelist from another town to have special gospel meetings in their hall. Few missions in a small hall have produced such an abundant and abiding fruit.

Jennie, a little daughter, nine years of age, belonging to this home we have mentioned, was saved by God’s grace. A few nights afterward, her mother entered upon the joy of salvation, but the father persistently refused to attend the meetings. One night at the close of a meeting, the little girl stood up and with tears she said, “Will you please pray for my Daddy?” Earnest prayers went up to God for her father’s salvation.

Years have gone by, and the evangelist paid several visits to that town, but this man had never been to hear the gospel message. He was often visited in his home and on one occasion he promised faithfully to attend the meeting that night. When his wife and daughter came, they said with tears, “He will not come. He has gone and locked himself in the chicken coop.”

The evangelist and another Christian went to the chicken coop. It was locked, but they climbed over the fence, and there they found the man and his brother. With love and faithfulness they warned and plead with these two men.

The gambler seemed as hard as ever, but right there in the coop the brother received the Lord Jesus as his Saviour. He became a Sunday school teacher, and an active gospel worker in the town, until the closing days of last year when he was called home to be with Christ. The few years of loving service are hay memories to his loved ones, and many will remember the man who was saved in the chicken coop.

The only time his brother attended a service was at the funeral. He is a sad example of the hardening por of sin. However, his Christian friends continued to hope and pray for his salvation also.

“As I live, saith the Lord God, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live: turn ye, turn ye from your evil ways; for why will ye die?” Ezekiel 33:11.

Let those I seek to win for Thee,

Know that the Lord who died for me

Has shown through me His strong desire

To save them from eternal fire;

Oh Lord, until life’s work is done,

Use me to win them—one by one.

ML-03/02/1969

The Indian Boy's Treasure

A MISSIONARY went to see a little Indian boy who was dying. He found him in an old hut with a few leaves for his bed and a soiled blanket for his covering.

“What can I do for you, my poor boy, to relieve your wants?” he asked.

“Nothing, sir,” said the boy. “I want but little; I am very happy. Jesus Christ, the Lord of glory, died for my sins and I trust only in Him.”

“Do you find comfort in your Bible?” asked the missionary.

“That, sir, is my dear friend,” said the dying boy, raising himself on his elbow and pressing the Book to his heart. “Last year I went to visit my sister, two hundred miles up the lake. When I was halfway back, I remembered I had left my Bible. I turned around and I was tossed about in my canoe for nine days on the lake before I reached the house. I got my treasure at last and I never mean to part with it as long as I live. When I am gone, sir, I want you to give it away, so that it may do good to others.”

Boys and girls, do you have a well-worn Bible or one that is covered with dust? A man once offered a little boy the choice of twenty-five dollars or a Bible. The little boy said, “My mother told me that the law of the Lord was better than thousands of gold and silver (see Psa. 119:72). If you please, sir, I will take the Bible.” This boy made a wise choice.

“Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Psalm 119:105.

ML-03/02/1969

Jesus Has Got Me Now

AT A children’s service a little girl was listening eagerly to the words of the speaker, as he pressed upon his hearers the joy of accepting the Lord Jesus as their Saviour. The child was deeply anxious and when spoken to burst into tears.

“And are you trusting in the Lord Jesus?” she was asked and at once she replied, “Oh, yes.”

“Why, how long has that been?”

“Only just now, when you were telling us to trust Jesus just where we were sitting, and I did.”

Later when they were saying good-night the speaker said, “Now, Jean, when you came here this evening you did not belong to the Lord Jesus, but you are going out of this place a believer in Him, and belonging to Him. But tomorrow morning you will perhaps be tempted not to believe that Jesus has saved you. If Satan does so worry you, what shall you tell him?”

A smile instantly lit up her happy and thoughtful face, and she replied in a simple yet confident manner, “Oh, I shall tell him that Jesus has got me now.”

“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.

ML-03/02/1969

The Young People's Class: The Saviour

1. What angelic tidings accompanied the birth of the One who was declared to be a SAVIOUR? Luke 2.

2. For whom did the Father send the Son to be the SAVIOUR? 1 John 4.

3. What grand truth could be made known after God raised up and exalted the SAVIOUR? Acts 5.

4. What has our SAVIOUR brought to light through the full gospel message? 2 Tim.

5. What is the promise to those who now look for the SAVIOUR? Philippians 3.

6. What tragedy will be spared if we grow in the knowledge of our SAVIOUR? 2 Pet.

7. What is the practical exhortation to those who desire an abundant entrance into the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and SAVIOUR? 2 Pet.

ML-03/02/1969

The Story of Moses: The Man of God

Exodus 12:10

“And ye shall let nothing of it remain until the morning and that which remaineth of it until the morning ye shall burn with fire.” If an Israelite household were unable to eat the entire lamb on that memorable night, the portion that remained was to be consumed by fire.

First, there was God’s view of the sacrifice. It looked on to the offering up of His dear Son on Calvary, and the roasting of the lamb told of God’s judgment of sin falling on Him. The shedding of the innocent victim’s blood and its display on the doorpost set forth the atoning value of that precious blood which would flow forth from the Saviour’s side. Then there is the believer’s portion, typified by the feasting on the roast lamb, which speaks of the redeemed’s enjoyment of their portion in Christ, and of the communion which they are brought into with the Father and the Son.

Yet nothing was to be left till the morning. That which spoke of the death of Christ must not be treated lightly. All the work of Christ and His death must be accounted for to God.

None of it was to be refused. If the appetite was not equal to it, what could not be eaten was to be returned, as it were, as God’s portion, and entirely burned with fire. Nothing pertaining to Christ is ever to be considered without value or of little importance.

If the believer is not equal to enjoying all of his Saviour, which is his privileged portion, then God Himself will find infinite delight in all that is associated with the sacrifice of His beloved Son.

The roast lamb was not to be consumed as ordinary or common food. It could only be eaten in association with the judgment through which it had passed. In order to feast upon Christ, one must be in the apprehension of His death. It was only around the passover table that they could properly feed upon the Passover lamb. On the passover night, as also in the morning when the judgment had passed, they might forget the import of the lamb roast with fire. But the burning of all that was left would recall to them its solemn character, they would be reminded afresh that the lamb had been sacrificed for them, and it would prevent it from degenerating into common food.

A child of God should be exercised if his enjoyment of the things of Christ is not what it should be, and should seek prayerfully to find what is needed to bring him into a deeper sense of his privilege of communion. Perhaps where this is the case, it is the result of feeding on inferior food, other things than Christ, when the appetite is thus dulled. The enemy of our souls is quick to fill our thoughts, activities, and our lives with occupations, cares or worldly pleasures, that will intrude into our communion and mar our enjoyment of Christ.

Memory Verse

“WHEN I SEE THE BLOOD, I WILL PASS OVER YOU.” Exodus 12:13.

ML-03/02/1969

The Old Calendar

IT WAS evening after a hot summer day, and Mary Hartman, a poor widow sat by the open window of her cottage. The moon shone bright and lighted her face as well as that of little six-year old Anton resting at his mother’s feet. It was lovely and quiet but the poor widow was not happy. Supper was still on the table and tears rolled down her cheeks.

At the beginning of the year Mary had become a widow. Because of his thrift and diligence, her husband had been able to borrow enough money to buy a small cottage and garden. He and his young wife and little boy lived together very happily until typhus snatched him away. She had lovingly nursed him through his long illness and then took ill herself. However, the Lord, being merciful to little Anton, spared his mother. Slowly she recovered, but then found herself in extreme circumstances. Still she had confidence in the One, who having comforted and sustained her husband in his suffering, is also the Father of orphans and widows.

For a long time John Hartman had been employed by a rich farmer and had been noted for his honesty and faithfulness. When he bought the cottage and garden the farmer had loaned him one thousand dollars with the understanding that he was to pay back one hundred dollars every year. John had done this regularly until he had been taken ill. Mary knew there was only one payment left. However, the farmer had also died, and a son-in-law became the heir. Among other papers was discovered a debt of one thousand dollars against John Hartman. Not knowing the circumstances, he required the whole amount from the widow. It was useless to try and convince him otherwise, as she could produce no evidence. He did not believe her and went to court. Because she had no receipt for the nine hundred dollars, she was ordered to pay the full amount or lose her home. All her pleadings were ignored, and now in a few hours, her home was to be sold at auction.

As she sat weeping, suddenly little Anton got up and throwing his arms around his mother said: “Don’t cry, Mommie! Don’t you remember what Daddy said when he was sick? `Don’t worry', he said, ‘God will take care of you.’ Isn’t it true what Daddy said?”

“Yes, my dear; what father said is true,” his mother assured him.

“But why do you cry?” asked Aon. “When I was with Daddy in the forest I ran to him whenever I got hungry and he always gave me something to eat. If God is our Father, He will surely help us. Why don’t we ask Him?”

“You are right, dear Anton,” said Mother, and together they knelt down and pleaded with the Lord to deliver them in their trouble.

The tears stopped. Courage returned to the heart of the poor widow. Suddenly the little boy exclaimed: “Look, Mommie, what is that little spark? Now it is coming in the window; oh how pretty! See it near the table. What is it?”

“That is a fire fly, Anton,” explained Mother. “In the day time you cannot see them, but at night they are so pretty.”

“May I catch it? Will it burn my fingers?” asked the boy.

“Oh no,” Mother answered. “Catch the little fellow, but do not squeeze him.”

Trouble was soon forgotten in the excitement of the moment. The glowing little creature flew near the table, then under the chair, and again over his head. Just as he thought he had it, it flew behind an old cupboard that stood against the wall.

“Oh, it got away,” said Anton a little disappointed. “It’s up there on the wall. I can see it again but I’m too short to get it.”

“Have a little patience, it will fly again,” said Mother.

He waited a few moments, but the little bug seemed content in his resting place, and appeared to have no intention of further amusing his pursuer. Then the excited boy said to the mother, “Please move the cup board so I can catch him.”

Mary did as her little boy wanted, and soon happy Anton had the little bug a prisoner. But the mother’s attention was absorbed in something altogether different. As she moved the cupboard a little book had fallen I down behind it. She picked it up and cried out for joy.

“Oh, how wonderful! I have found it. Here is that calendar I have searched for. Now we can prove that father paid the money they require of us.”

In a moment she had a lamp burning and with tears of joy and thankfulness was turning the calendar leaves. There it was in black and white showing the date of each payment as well as the balance, and signed by the farmer—R. R.

The widow was nearly beside herself with joy. Her burden was gone. No longer need she fear that she and little Anton would be homeless.

“Let us give thanks to the Lord, Anton,” she said. On account of his mother’s joy he gladly gave the little bug its freedom and exclaimed, “We can stay in our home. The Lord stood by us.”

Yes, the One who is a very present help in trouble heard their prayers. He sent a little messenger to the place the long sought-for calendar lay hidden. The carefully stored receipt had come to light at the right time. The Lord had watched over it.

Dear reader, the question is: Are you cleansed from your sins through the precious blood of Christ? Are you reconciled to God? If you can thankfully rejoice in this, then learn from this story how to trust the Lord in the most trying circumstances. An old calendar is not worth much in itself yet how valuable this one proved. And what about the little insignificant fire fly? Who guided all the movements of this little insect from the garden into the window, and to the wall above the cupboard? Who directed the attention of the little boy to that glowing wonder and in this way brought about the discovery of the lost receipts. It was the Lord. Thus it is in little things that oftentimes we may discover His loving care the most. Oh may we learn to trust Him more fully. Nothing else gives rest of heart.

The following morning the happy widow hurried to the judge. The young farmer was sent for, and the calendar presented to him. As Mary told the story of how wonderfully God had delivered her in the hour of trial by using a little fire fly to lead them to the calendar, many were in tears. Deeply touched and ashamed, the young farmer confessed his hardness of heart and canceled the remaining debt. He also gave Mary employment in his home.

The Lord proved again that He is the Father of not only widows and orphans, but of all those that put their trust in Him.

Memory Verse “BLESSED IS EVERY ONE THAT FEATH THE LORD; THAT WALKETH IN HIS WAYS.” Psalms 128:1.

ML-03/09/1969

Two Salvations

A LITTLE girl I knew went for a walk in the country with her father one morning. Presently she ran on ahead to the side of a pond. Leaning over, she lost her balance and fell into the water!

“Quick, Daddy, I’m sinking!” she screamed, and her father rushed up and pulled her out.

She cried to one who loved her, and was able and willing to save. And Jesus loves you, and is able and willing to save you this moment if you will believe in Him.

I remember the day well when that child, grown into a big girl of fourteen, was led to accept the gospel of her salvation, so she has known two salvations you see.

Have you believed the gospel? Are you saved? Don’t shirk the solemn question. Face it bravely and get this matter settled, and DO IT NOW! Then don’t be ashamed to own your Lord and Saviour.

A little girl of five showed me her toys once, and then got on a chair, and whispered in my ear, “Jesus has washed all my sins away.”

Can you say that?

ML-03/09/1969

The Story of Moses

Exodus 12:11

""AND thus shall ye eat it; with your loins girded, your shoes on your feet, and your staff in your hand; and ye shall eat it in haste: it is the LORD’S passover.” This night was to mark the close of the long servitude that had bowed the children of Israel under the whip of their taskmasters. Under the cruel power of a hostile Pharaoh their lives had been identified with the slime pits and brick kilns of Egypt, from which, humanly-speaking, deliverance was impossible. But now God was about to work in mighty power and their release from slavery was nigh.

True, God’s judgment against man’s sin must fall before deliverance would be known, and those who sought the shelter of the blood of the slain lamb would be spared that judgment. When the night was past they would be free from their oppressors and already on their way to the better land that God had promised to them.

We can see in this a picture of the world and the bondage in which Satan holds all who through sin are enslaved by him, yet deliverance from this hapless lot is offered by a gracious God to all who by faith own the atoning work of Christ and His precious blood as a propitiation for their sins. All who have Christ as their Substitute are set free from bondage and are on their way to that heavenly home prepared for them. What a wonderful change this is! “Even Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us,” the Apostle tells us (1 Cor. 5:7). How well then for us, as believers, to understand the meaning of this feast and its bearing on the Christian life.

The attitude of the people when eating this feast on that Passover night was very suited to the promises of God in connection with their deliverance, and spoke of that which was becoming to a redeemed people. Their loins were girded — speaking of their separation from the scene in which they had been so long held captives, and readiness for service, any hindrance to their going forth being removed. Their shoes were to be on their feet — properly shod for the pathway before them. Their staff was to be in their hand a token of their pilgrim character and need of support in their weariness as well as an instrument to remove obstructions in the way.

Above all, they were to eat it in haste. Redeemed by blood, they were now no longer citizens of Egypt, but strangers in a foreign land. From henceforth they would not move at the bidding of a cruel Pharaoh, but their pathway would be the loving direction of Jehovah. How appropriate it was then that they should be fully prepared when the summons came! And this is the pattern for the Lord’s people in our day. Our whole behavior and attitude should manifest a readiness to follow His command without hesitation and without any attachment to this world, that would hinder our obedience or mar the joy of marching toward that “inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation.” 1 Peter 1:4,5.

ML-03/09/1969

Alfredo

IN THE old town of Figueira de Foz two schoolboys had been for some time walking together. When they got outside the town, one drew his friend into a shady nook, whispering as he did so, “Alfredo, I have something to show you. See!” And he drew a small thin book in paper covers from his pocket. Alfredo’s love of reading was well known among his schoolmates, and his friend noticed the look of delight that came into his face as he turned the pages of the Gospel of Matthew.

“Where did you get it, Pablo?” Alfredo asked after some time spent in a still further examination of the book.

“At the fair,” replied Pablo. “I won it in a raffle.”

“Will you sell it?” Alfredo asked eagerly.

“I don’t care to. But what do you have to offer?” said Pablo.

Alfredo drew a small silver coin from his pocket, but Pablo shook his head. A pocket-knife was next offered and refused. Alfredo felt that he really wanted the book, for again and again as he turned the pages, his eyes had rested on the words “Jesus Christ,” and the little volume was, he felt sure, unlike any he had ever seen. He must make one more attempt to secure it.

Drawing a fine, white handkerchief from his pocket, he offered it, and the offer was accepted. They parted, and Alfredo, crossing a field and reaching a lonely spot, began to read. He soon became so absorbed in the book that time and place were forgotten as he read on and on the wondrous, and to him, the new story of the birth, life, death, and resurrection of the Lord Jesus. He did not close the book until he read it all, and surprised at the lateness of the hour, hurried home.

“Those that seek Me early shall find Me.” Proverbs 8:17.

“For the Son of Man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10.

From that day the Book was his constant companion, and the more he read, the better he loved it. The Saviour’s words, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matt. 11:28), seemed to him a living voice, full of compassion and tenderness, calling him, and though he did not then see God’s way of salvation quite clearly, he was reaching toward the light. He soon longed to share with others the glad tidings of the gospel, so daily he would make his way alone to the riverside, where the village women washed their clothes. While they washed, Alfredo would read to them, and soon several began to listen, and to love the Book too. Things went on for some weeks, till one day some men came along, and finding the boy with the gospel, took it away and reproved him sharply for reading it.

Alfredo felt the loss of his treasured book keenly, but made up his mind that he would try to buy another. He had in some way found that the gospel was part of a much larger book, called “The Bible,” and he saved every coin he could earn. When he had almost the required sum, a colporteur passed through the village, and finding that Alfredo really longed for the Word of God, gave him a copy in exchange for his savings.

How glad the boy was! How he loved the Book, and pored over its pages! It was not long before he found peace in believing. He still lives, and loves to tell others of the One who sought and saved him.

Has the Word of God brought peace and joy to your soul, dear friend? Do you know the Lord Jesus, the One whom God sent into this world to die on the cross to save you, and do you value God’s Word as Alfredo did? If you turn to Him now, like Alfredo, you will receive a new life, eternal life, and then what peace and happiness you will have! One day too you will go and dwell with Jesus in heaven forever.

“From a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” 2 Timothy 3:15.

ML-03/16/1969

"Give My Love to Him!"

A little boy, four years old, ran into his mother’s bedroom one morning to tell her something, but found her upon her knees engaged in prayer. His mother said, “Go away, my dear, for I am talking to Jesus.”

This obedient child went at once, but something came into his heart. He crept softly back on tiptoe, and putting his little hand on his mother’s shoulder, whispered, “Mamma, please give my love to Him.”

ML-03/16/1969

"Not as a Prince, but as a Sinner"

IT IS said that when the Duke of Kent, the father of Queen Victoria, was expressing, in the prospect of death, some concern about the state of his soul, his physician endeavored to soothe his mind by referring to his high respectability, his honorable conduct in the distinguished situation in which Provence had placed him, when he stopped him short, saying—“No; remember if I am to be saved, it is not as a prince, but as a sinner.”

It is well for both princes and people to understand that they are but men, that they are but dust, and that in the presence of God, kings and peasants, princes and paupers, millionaires and beggars, wise men and ignorant men, stand on a coon footing. “All have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.”

All need forgiveness, pardon, and salvation; and all, if saved at all, must be saved by the mercy of Him who loved the lost, and who came into the world to save sinners. All must meet upon the same level and cry, in the language of the publican, “God be merciful to me a sinner!”

Memory Verse “HE HATH MADE HIM TO BE SIN FOR US, WHO KNEW NO SIN; THAT WE MIGHT BE MADE THE RIGHTEOUESS OF GOD IN HIM.” 2 Corinthians 5:21.

ML-03/16/1969

Plenty of Time Yet

ONE EVENING, as I was standing at the door of a hall where the gospel was to be preached, I noticed a little girl looking at me. When the others had gone in, I said to her, “Will you come in?”

“Not yet, sir,” she replied, “I will come in presently; but there is plenty of time yet.”

About a quarter of an hour after, I was again standing outside to keep the boys quiet. The same little girl came up to me and said, “Please, sir, may I go in now?”

“No,” I said, “there is no more room, the hall is full; you are too late.”

“But I was asked in only a few minutes ago.”

“I know you were,” I replied, “but you did not want to come in then. When I invited you, you refused, and now that you would like to come in there is no room.”

Dear young friend, are you like this little girl? Do you say, “Plenty of time yet to believe in Christ?” Oh, be wise, remember what God has said in His word: “Because I have called and ye refused; I have stretched out My hand, and no man regarded; I also will laugh at your calamity, I will mock when your fear cometh.” Proverbs 1:24-26. No doubt God has invited you many times. Have you refused? He has stretched out His hand and stretches it out still. Will you look? Listen to the Saviour’s gentle voice, saying, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28.

“All things are ready, come,

Tomorrow may not be.

Oh, children, come, the Saviour waits

This hour to welcome thee.”

“Behold, NOW is the accepted time; behold, NOW is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:2.

ML-03/16/1969

The Story of Moses

Exodus 12:12,13

“FOR I WILL pass through the land of Egypt this night, and will smite all the firstborn in the land... And the blood shall be to you for a token upon the houses where ye are: and when I see the blood, I will pass over you.” Wonderful promise! The responsibility of the children of Israel was to apply the blood, for they were sinners just like the Egyptians. But God did not say, “When I see your good deeds,” or “When I see your good intentions,” but, “When I see the blood, I will pass over you.”

There were two conditions to the feast which we have not yet considered. The roast lamb was to be eaten with unleavened bread and bitter herbs. Naturally they would shun these two things, yet when we consider their typical meaning we can understand how needful they were, if the fullness of all that the sacrifice spoke of was to be entered into.

Throughout Scripture leaven is a type of evil, which when allowed to work influences all that it touches. Even a small amount contaminates all. “Know ye not that a little lean leaveneth the whole lump?” 1 Corinthians 5:6. The eating of the unleavened bread then would speak of separation from all that is evil. In fact, a child of God cannot enjoy true communion with his Saviour as long as he is allowing unjudged evil in his life.

Although a Christian is saved by grace and is entirely secure through trusting in the blood of Christ, he is also called to practical holiness, according to the divine nature of his new life in Christ. “Be ye holy; for I am holy.” 1 Peter 1:16. “Present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God.” Romans 12:1. May we who are the Lord’s redeemed people now enter more fully into the need, as well as the blessing, of such practical holiness, that our communion with Him might not be broken, even by a little “leaven,” or evil, which is often treated so lightly.

Eating the bitter herbs would speak of our having a deep sense of what our sins cost our blessed Saviour. Such sober reflections as seeing and eating the bitter herbs would cause a child of God to put away the evil, no matter what the cost or how bitter the experience, “Forasmuch then as Christ has suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind: for he that has suffered in the flesh has ceased from sin.” 1 Peter 4:1. Here the believer is seen eating “the bier herbs,” (suffering in the flesh) with the happy result in that self-judgment he “has ceased from sin.”

They were to eat it in haste as those who were not indulging in Egypt’s pleasures, but were expecting to leave Egypt at any moment. They were not to be time wasters. “Life at best is very brief.” How easy it is to waste our time until we find that the best of our life is gone —spent for self when it might have been spent for the Lord. “The time is short.” 1 Corinthians 7:29. The Lord is coming.

“A little while,"—He’ll come again;

Let us the precious hours redeem.

Our only grief to give Him pain

Our joy to serve and follow Him.

ML-03/16/1969

A Gambler's Story

MY BOY, who was a bright and happy Christian, said to me one day: “Dad, we’re going to have a gospel tent meeting. Will you come?”

I replied, “I won’t promise, such things are not in my line.” I was a drunkard and a gambler.

One Sunday I was playing cards and gambling all day, and lost every penny I possessed. When I came out of the house I turned up the hill to have a walk in the country. I felt as miserable as a man could be. I saw the gospel tent and went in. The evangelist was preaching from the words, “Wherefore, He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him, seeing He ever liveth to make intercession for them.” Hebrews 7:25. I thought, “If that is true, then there is hope for me.”

At the close of the meeting, I asked the preacher if he would tell me more about what he had been talking about. He sat down by my side with his Bible, and showed me how “Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures,... and that He rose again,” and as a living Saviour, He is able to save to the uttermost all that come unto God by Him. I knew my need of a Saviour. I had nothing, I could do nothing, so—

I came to Jesus as I was,

Weary and worn and sad;

I found in Him a resting place,

And He has made me glad.

I went home and told my wife and children. I did not have a Bible, but I knelt down and prayed as best I could. I then went and told a bookie I had several bets on with, that I was saved, and the bets were off—that there would be no more drinking and gambling for me. I told my old mates, but they said it would not last. My salvation was the real work of the Holy Spirit and it is bound to last. He has saved me, and He will keep me. My wife is saved too. Oh! what a change; and tears of joy run down my face as I think of the wonderful love of God to me.

Suffer a sinner whose heart overflows,

Loving his Saviour, to tell what he knows.

Once more to tell it, would I embrace—

I’m only a sinner, saved by grace.

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Timothy 1:15.

ML-03/23/1969

Charlie's Dream

CHARLIE was a big boy, between 12 and 13, and went one night to a gospel meeting, bent on mischief, and making fun of what was said. He laughed and talked, and disturbed the speaker, so that he had to be reproved; but that night he had a dream that disturbed him dreadfully!

He thought that he saw the word

ETERNITY

upon the wall at the foot of his bed, not in black letters, but in letters of fire like gas jets flaring upon the wall.

The boy woke up in a great fright, trembling very much, and could not get off to sleep again. Surely it was God speaking to Charlie, and he felt what a wicked boy he was, and that if he died in that state he could not possibly spend eternity with the Lord Jesus in heaven!

He could scarcely swallow any breakfast in the morning, and had the most wretched time at school.

After school he ran home, went up to his room, fell upon his knees weeping, and asked God to have mercy on him for Christ’s sake, and wash all his sins away. That was the day of his salvation, and Charlie has been a changed character ever since, and he has told many boys and girls of the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.

ML-03/23/1969

The King of Kings

AN ENGLISH missionary who has spent many years in China was anticipating a furlough. He had told his children, who had never been away from China before, the wonders of the western civilization and of the many delightful things to be seen abroad. And quite naturally the children were enthused about their anticipated pleasure; but none, however, were so alluring as the fact they were going to get a sight of the Royal family at Buckingham Palace. This was their supreme anticipation!

Their furlough was filled with delightful journeys and sights, but owing to crowds and unavoidable circumstances they were not able to realize their great desire and thus were profoundly disappointed.

So great was their disappointment that finally the father wrote to the Secretary of State. He received a gracious reply to the effect that they should be at the gate of Buckingham Palace on a certain morning at a certain time. With great excitement they took their places, anxiously awaiting the arrival of the royal carriage, but it failed to appear. Suddenly they saw a uniformed gentleman who came to them and showed them the grounds of the palace. Aer doing so he led them into the conservatory and then into a certain room where they were introduced to none other than King George the Fifth himself.

At last in parting the King placed his hands on the shoulders of the children and said, “So you were anxious to see your King, and you love him? Well, you know I want to see a King too, and I love this King who is the very one your father and mother are serving in far-off China —He is the King of kings.”

ML-03/23/1969

Mary's Dime

A LADY had a class of small girls in a Sunday school, and one Sunday afternoon she made them all very sad by telling them that she was going away to live in another town. That was the last Sunday she would teach them.

So the little girls decided each to buy some small keepsake to give to their kind teacher. But Mary, who was only eight years old, was very poor, and had only one dime of her own. So she looked in the shops to see if there was anything she could buy for a dime. She found at a toy shop some dolls’ mugs ticketed at 10c apiece. So she went in and bought one. Then she went to the house and said, “Teacher, I have brought you a little keepsake. It only cost 10c; but that was all the money I had!”

To be sure her teacher was very pleased, and said she would take such care of it. Now it was not worth much, but it was a real gift of love! Our hearts are not worth much, and yet Jesus wants them! Have you given your heart to Him?

I gave My life for thee,

My precious blood I shed,

That thou mightest ransomed be,

And quickened from the dead.

I gave My life for thee,

What hast thou given for Me?

ML-03/23/1969

Precious

A FATHER was reading 1 Peter 2 at the family prayers one morning, when all his children were assembled. When he read the 7th verse, he asked the children the meaning of the word precious. The youngest child, four years old, gave such a nice answer. She said: “Mother is precious, we can’t do without her.”

And so the Lord Jesus is precious; we can’t do without Him. How can you live without Jesus? How could you die without Him? Put your soul in His safe-keeping just now.

“Whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe.” — Proverbs 29:25.

“Unto you therefore which believe He is precious.” — 1 Peter 2:7.

Memory Verse “AS MANY AS RECEIVED HIM, TO THEM GAVE HE POWER TO BECOME THE SONS OF GOD.” John 1:12.

Jesus loves me, He who died,

Heaven’s gate to open wide;

He will wash away my sin,

Let a little child come in.

Jesus loves me, loves me still,

When I’m very weak and ill,

From His shining home on high,

He will watch me where I lie.

SAFE in the arms of Jesus,

Safe on His gentle breast,

There by His love o’er shadowed,

Sweetly my soul shall rest.

Jesus, my heart’s dear refuge,

Jesus has died for me;

Firm on the rock of ages,

Ever my trust shall be.

Here let me wait with patience,

Wait till the night is o’er;

Wait till I see the morning

Break on the golden shore.

ML-03/23/1969

The Story of Moses: The Man of God

Exodus 12:14-20

“AND THIS day shall be to you for a memorial; and ye shall keep it a feast to the LORD throughout your generations... Seven days shall ye eat unleavened bread; even the first day ye shall put away lean out of your houses: for whosoever eateth leavened bread from the first day until the seventh day, that soul shall be cut off from Israel.”

Not only was unleavened bread to be eaten on the night of the Passover, but it was ever after to be an annual feast, associated with the remembrance of the Passover. They were to observe the feast of unleavened bread a full seven day period each year. As remarked earlier, leaven is a type of evil (1 Cor. 5:8), and so there was to be complete separation from evil following the eating the Passover. Evil has no place at all in the life of a Christian. As we think of what it cost Christ our Passover to bear our sins, surely we too will want to be in separation from this present evil world and its ways. But the Christian is not only to feed on what is free of defilement but is also to put evil entirely away from his life. The new nature that grace has provided with salvation will prosper only if we continue to keep the feast “with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth.” To turn again and to indulge the appetite of the old nature with the things of the flesh and of this world, which God has judged, is a barrier to spiritual growth and is not behavior acceptable before a holy God.

Furthermore, nothing was to interrupt the annual feast. “And in the first day there shall be a holy convocation, and in the seventh day ... no manner of work shall be done in them.” verse 16.

The seven days, a full cycle of time, speaks of the full lifetime of the believer. He is called to separation from evil continually. Nothing should be allowed to interfere with his devotedness to Christ. There is no provision whatsoever made for even “a little leaven” in his life. Not only was the use of leaven forbidden, but it was not even to be found in their homes. May the Lord give each of us the needed exercise before Him, and the grace to put away out of our houses, out of our rooms, all that is not pleasing to Him.

It is well to remember that the putting away of leaven out of his life is not the Christian’s standing before God that is in view, but that which affects his communion. Once one has found Christ as his Saviour, his standing as a child of God will never change. Praise God that it is so. But while one may have a deep sense of the value of Christ as the Lamb of God, and be fully trusting in His blood, he might yet allow sinful ways to enter his life. When this is so, communion with the Father and with His Son is broken. Nor can he walk in true fellowship with other believers. May we be found more in that pathway of full separation from the world and all that is contrary to God. “Make me to go in the path of Thy commandments; for therein do I delight. Incline my heart unto Thy testimonies, and not to covetousness. Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity; and quicken Thou me in Thy way.” Psalms 119:35-37.

ML-03/23/1969

The Runaway

MY MOTHER died when I was about ten years old and about two years later, my father married again. I had no reason to dislike my new mother, for she was very kind to me, but for some reason, I objected to her and made myself as disagreeable as possible. She did all she could by kindness and gentleness to win me to her, but I would have none of it, and at last my father decided to send me to a boarding school.

I was not long at this school bore I decided to run away. I did not like the studies and I rebelled at the strict rules. Dear young friends, to run away from trouble is not the right way. If I had only gone to the Lord Jesus and confessed to Him my rebellion and naughty ways, He would have been ready to forgive and then to help me. But I didn’t think of turning to Him, but thought only of myself and my imagined wrongs.

Soon after this a circus came to town and we boys were all excited and determined to see the animals perform. Then the thought came to me; why not join the circus and work my way to Buffalo? I had a cousin there and he would find work for me. I could support myself and live as I pleased.

And so it came to pass that I ban to work for the circus and traveled from place to place. About three months after I joined the circus, I heard some men discussing a boy who had run away from the very school where I had been. I knew they were talking about me, and I heard the men say my father had offered a reward to anyone who could tell him where I was to be found.

The men were all eating their supper, so I slipped out and ran off once more. Reaching a canal, I saw the lights of a slowly moving boat and hailed the man at the stern. He made no answer at first, but presently brought the boat alongside and took me aboard.

Now indeed, my troubles began. The captain was a brutal, ungodly man who was very hard on me, beating me when he thought I should have done more work than I did, or when I was not fast enough to suit him. He boxed my ears at the least offense and showed me no mercy whatsoever. Truly “the way of transgressors is hard.” Proverbs 13:15. And I had to learn it to my sorrow.

I determined once more to run away, but the captain watched me closely and I was as miserable as any boy could be.

One evening I was walking by the canal when I heard the sound of singing. It brought back to me all the scenes of home and my family, and I burst into tears. At this moment a kind voice behind me said, “What’s the matter, my boy?” Turning around I met the kind eyes of the captain of one of the other boats.

I told him the whole story—how I had run away from home and how unhappy I was. I begged him to send word to my father. He promised, but before he left me, my new friend said, “You have done very wrong, but do not despair. Remember the prodigal son. Return to God and He will receive you back, as the father did the prodigal. He can hear you here by the canal, and He will, too, if you will seek Him truly.” Then he jumped aboard his boat and was gone.

I crept away to bed as soon as I could, but not to sleep. My thoughts had been turned to God—forgotten and sinned against by me. I repeated to myself the parable of the prodigal son, long since learned by heart. I confessed my sins and sought earnestly for forgiveness and a wonderful peace and quietness came into my heart. I was so glad the verse said, “The blood of Jesus Christ, His Son, cleanseth us from ALL sin.” 1 John 1:7.

All the next day my head and limbs ached terribly and I could hardly sit up, but I was happier than I had been for many a day. I believed that I was going to be very sick and I thought that I should probably die. Oh! how earnestly I prayed that I might be spared to see my dear father once more, if it were only long enough to beg his forgiveness. By the time we reached Rochester I was very ill, though the captain forced me to work. I tried hard, but fell, and rolled into the water.

A man who saw me fall, instantly jumped in after me and brought me to shore. I was ill enough after that and unconscious part of the time, so that I did not know where I was. But when I recovered my senses, I found myself in a hospital and saw a lady sitting by my bed. As I looked at her I gradually realized who she was!

“Mother,” I said, “Is that you?” It was the first time I had ever called her Mother.

She was very kind and good to me, and when my father came to see me, I remember how sad it made me to see how old and worn he looked. He freely forgave me and when I was well enough, he took me home with him. My stepmother was so good to me that I wondered how I could have disliked her.

When I grew up, I gave my life to preaching the gospel and the first time I preached, I took for my sermon, the prodigal son.

How much sorrow I would have saved myself if I had only submitted to my parents. God’s Word says, “Children, obey your parents,” and “Honor thy father and mother... that it may be well with thee.” Surely it is best to obey God’s Word always, rather than to follow our own willful ways.

“I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth.” Luke 15:7.

Memory Verse “I AM THE GOOD SHEPHERD: THE GOOD SHEPHERD GIVETH HIS LIFE FOR THE SHEEP.” John 10:11.

ML-03/30/1969

She Loved Her Bible

NORMA was a drunkard’s little daughter. Her father was a dock laborer, often intoxicated, and had almost no regard for the welfare of his wife and family.

Norma attended a Sunday school mission. One night at the close of the meeting for the boys and girls, she said to the evangelist who spoke, “I have trusted Jesus as my Saviour tonight.” He gave her a New Testament and marked some verses for her to read, so that she might know more fully of the wonderful love of God, as shown in the gift of His only begotten Son.

A few nights afterward she said, “I have asked Daddy and Mother to come and hear about Jesus, but they won’t come. Will you come to our house and ask them?” To be sure he would, and he called the next day. The home was in a very poor neighborhood, and bore evidence of extreme poverty. It was truly a drunkard’s home. Norma’s father would not promise to come to the mission, but her mother came, and there is every reason to believe that she put her trust in the Lord Jesus as her Saviour.

Two years passed by, and the evangelist was again holding gospel meetings in the same hall. Norma came to him one night, her face beaming with joy, and she showed him a pocket in her dress, specially made to hold her little New Testament. She said, “I love my Bible. I carry it with me, and whenever I have time I read a few verses. It helps me not to sin. I do like to read about Jesus.” As the evangelist looked at the little Testament it certainly bore evidence of constant use. Norma grew up and she got a position in a happy Christian home. In her spare time she was an active worker at the Sunday school where she trusted the Lord Jesus as her Saviour.

Cling to the Bible! this jewel and treasure

Brings life eternal, and saves fallen man;

Surely its value no mortal can measure:

Seek for its blessing, Oh soul, while you can!

ML-03/30/1969

"Take Me as I Am"

A FRIEND of mine told me of a poor Scotch girl who was very anxious about her soul. He told her to read Isaiah, chapter 53. She replied: “I canna read, and I canna pray. Jesus, take me as I am!” The Lord Jesus took her as she was, for she trusted her all to Him, and found life and happiness.

Dear young friends, let Him take you today, just as you are, and He will receive you to His arms; for “him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

Saved through the blood of Jesus,

Saved from the wrath to come,

Saved for eternal glory,

Saved for the Father’s home,

Watched by the faithful Shepherd,

Kept with the Father’s care,

Safe in those hands Forever,

No one can perish there.

“THE NAME OF THE LORD IS A STRONG TOWER: THE RIGHTEOUS RUNNETH INTO IT, AND IS SAFE.” Proverbs 18:10.

ML-03/30/1969

The Story of Moses: The Man of God

Exodus 12:21

“THEN MOSES called for all the elders of Israel, and said unto them, Draw out and take you a lamb according to your families, and kill the Passover.”

The words “take you a lamb,” were in accordance with instructions Moses had received in verse 3 “a lamb for a house.” It is interesting to note that in verse 4 God had said, “the lamb,” but in verse 5 He says, “your lamb.” The expression “a Lamb” is used by the Holy Spirit in 1 Peter 1:18,19: “Ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold,... but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a Lamb without blemish and without spot.” Here the infinite price with which we have been redeemed, “a Lamb without blemish and without spot,” is contrasted with that which the world values, but which are poor corruptible things — silver and gold.

The first ray of hope in an awakened sinner’s experience is when he learns that there is “a Lamb” provided as a sacrifice for sins. Looking on to the eternal scene of which the Lord Jesus is the center and theme of praise, we read: “And I beheld, and, lo, in the midst of the throne... stood a Lamb as it had been slain.” Revelation 5:6. It is wonderful when the sinner finds there is a Lamb provided to meet his need, yet it is more wonderful to see that there is only one Lamb upon whom God’s eye can rest in fullest satisfaction. John the Baptist, seeing Jesus, could say, “Behold the Lamb of God.” John 1:29. Again, in glory the redeemed celebrate the worthiness of the One they will evermore adore, and sing the new song: “Worthy is the Lamb that was slain.” Thanks be unto God for His Lamb, the Lamb foreordained bore the foundation of the world (1 Peter 1:20).

God had said, “your lamb shall be without blemish.” One must appropriate this lamb personally in order to find salvation through the shed blood. We hope, beloved reader, that you too have claimed the Lord Jesus as your Lamb, and know that His precious blood, shed on Calvary, has cleansed you from every stain of sin, and that you have eternal life.

“And the whole assembly of the congregation of Israel shall kill it in the evening.” There were a great many families, each with its lamb before them that evening, but God was looking on to the sacrifice of His beloved Son, and in His sight the many sacrifices foreshadowed the one true Lamb alone. Every family must be under the shelter of the blood, but on the other hand, “the assembly of the congregation” is looked upon as a whole. This brings to our thoughts the truth that now, the whole Church of God having been formed and composed of many members and numerous assemblies, they are seen individually, and collectively also as one body, sheltered by the blood and owning the Lord Jesus as Saviour and Lord.

ML-03/30/1969

The Mother Elephant

A FRIEND of mine used to delight in telling the story of a good mother elephant that he saw in a picture. The scene was by some water in Africa, and a number of Africans had hunted her and her baby calf into the lake, where she was protecting her child by standing between it and the shore. The shore was lined with the hunters, who hurled spears, meant for the young elephant. But as the mother stood in front, and was much bigger, the spears all wounded her, while her little one was untouched. My friend said the picture made him think of his Saviour.

“He was wounded for our transgressions, He was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His stripes we are healed.” Isaiah 53:5.

Because of our sin, God must smite us; but His beloved Son became “our shield.” He came from heaven and died instead of us, bearing the punishment that was our due, and now all who believe this wonderful fact and put their trust in the Lord Jesus Christ, are saved for all eternity.

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

Love led the mother to protect her child. And

Oh, ’twas love, ’twas wondrous love!

The love of God to me:

It brought my Saviour from above,

To die on Calvary.

Did the young elephant “love its saviour? And do you, dear reader, love the Saviour of sinners?

“Christ also hath once suffered for sins, the just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God.” 1 Peter 3:18.

ML-04/06/1969

"He Died for Me"

YEARS ago Lieutenant Harding, whose regiment was stationed at Natal, received orders to explore the country 500 miles inland; so he started out on the expedition with six trusty soldiers and his servant Richard.

One day they came to a pool of water, where the footprints told that a large lion was wont to come down to drink, and Lieutenant Harding determined that he would go there in the evening and try to shoot it.

So away he started with his servant Richard, and they hid themselves near the pool. Soon the sun went down, and the cries of the wild beasts were heard, and at last the deep growl of the lion. The officer fired, but unfortunately only grazed its skin. The lion then bounded tard him and would have torn him in pieces, had not his faithful servant received the beast on his bayonet, but in so doing it gave Richard a dreadful stroke with its paw, which killed him.

Poor Richard was buried near that pool, and under his name are these words: “He died for me.”

T. HARDING.

“While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8.

Ought we not to love Him very much, and thank Him with all our heart?

ML-04/06/1969

Important Questions With Scripture Answers

Who wrote the Bible?

“Holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.” 2 Peter 1:21.

“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God.” 2 Timothy 3:16.

Is the Bible all true?

“Thy word is true from the beginning.” Psalms 119:160.

“These words are true and faithful.” Revelation 21:5.

Who made the world?

“For by Him [the Lord Jesus] were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth.” Colossians 1:16.

“By whom also He made the worlds.” Hebrews 1:2.

ML-04/06/1969

The Low Knocker

ONE DAY I called to see the matron at a little private orphanage. Some of the children there had been attending our gospel services. I walked up the steps, but could not see the knocker! I looked all about, and at last noticed that it was very low down near the bottom of the door. So of course I had to stoop down to knock. I asked the lady why she had the knocker in the wrong place, and she explained that some of her orphans were very small, and could not reach it if it had been put in the usual place higher up on the door.

“Oh, that is beautiful,” I said, “to think that the smallest child can reach the knocker because it is so low down!”

And, dear young friends, the knocker is very low down on God’s door of mercy, so that any child can easily get in. Have you knocked yet? The blessed Saviour has told us: “I am the door; by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved.” John 10:9.

Memory Verse “THE SON OF MAN IS COME TO SEEK AND TO SAVE THAT WHICH WAS LOST.” Luke 19:1

ML-04/06/1969

The Young People's Class: The Lamb of God

1. Who is the LAMB OF GOD? John.

2. What was the cost of our redemption to the LAMB? 1 Pet.

3. Did man regard the work of the LAMB as one of strength or weakness? Isaiah 53.

4. What will be heaven’s acclaim as to the worthiness of the LAMB? Revelation 5.

5. What will be the prevailing theme of the marriage of the LAMB? Revelation 19.

6. What will be the effect on those who come under the wrath of the LAMB? Revelation 6.

7. How long shall the LAMB be worshipped? Revelation 5.

ML-04/06/1969

The Story of Moses

Exodus 12:22-24

“AND YE shall take a bunch of hyssop, and dip it in the blood that is in the basin, and strike the lintel and the two side posts with the blood... " Apparently the children of Israel had been obedient to the instructions that God had given them through Moses, and now the eventful hour was at hand. The lamb was to be slain and its blood carefully collected in a basin. They were then to take a bunch of hyssop and apply the blood to the lintel and the doorposts of their houses.

“A bunch of hyssop” is used on two occasions in Scripture—first by an Israelite with blood (Ex. 12) then by the hand of a clean person, for an Israelite, with water, (Num. 19). In both cases it speaks of humiliation. David refers to it in this way in Psalms 51:7, where he cries, “Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean.” This was the moral cleansing of his soul by complete humiliation. The Israelite on that memorable night in Egypt, in dipping the hyssop in the blood, was thus appropriating his personal share in the virtues of the blood of the lamb. It was truly humiliating for him to go outside bore a world of idolatry, into whose sins he had sunk, and confess that although he was one of God’s chon people, he could claim no emption from the judgment except by the shelter of the blood of the lamb. He justified God and condemned himself. The thief or the cross had, as it were, the bunch of hyssop in his hand, when he rebuked his fellow, saying, “We indeed justly.” He claimed no superiority over the railing robber, nor excused himself. He too justified God and condemned himself. Now there was no hindrance to the Lord’s making His love known to him. He believed in his heart, confessed with his mouth, and went to paradise with Jesus that day. Once there is no hindrance, how simple then becomes the story of His grace.

“And the children of Israel went away, and did as the LORD had commanded Moses and Aaron.” So that Israel would never forget that night, they were told: “And ye shall observe this thing for an ordinance to thee and to thy sons forever.” verse 24. So impressive was this experience that they obeyed this commandment, but as time went on, while giving great importance to the feast itself, they quickly forgot its meaning. To this day many Jews still observe it, but they fail to see in it the Person of the Lord Jesus who came not only as their Messiah, but as the Saviour of the world as well. In their failure to own that Christ our Passover was sacrificed for us, the feast has become a mere religious form which cannot avail to bring them to God.

The Passover corresponds in type with another feast given to the church of God: “The Lord Jesus the same night in which He was brayed, took bread: and when He had given thanks, He break it, and said, Take, eat; this is My body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of Me. After the same manner also He took the cup, when He had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in My blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of Me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord’s death till He come.” 1 Cor. 11:23-26 How precious the invitation and privilege for each redeemed soul, to observe this loving remembrance, and to think of what it cost our Lord Jesus to bear our sins in His own body on the tree.

ML-04/06/1969

"Get My Mother in"

A WELL known preacher was about to retire one night when there came a knock at the front door. Upon answering it he found a poor little girl drenched with rain. From the slum district where she lived she had come through the storm to find the preacher. As he stood looking into her thin, haggard little face, she inquired, “Are you the preacher?”

“Yes, I am,” he replied.

“Well, won’t you come down and get my mother in?” she asked.

The preacher wisely answered his little inquirer: “My dear, it is hardly proper for me to come and get your mother in. If she is drunk, you should get a policeman. He is dressed for the occasion.”

“Oh, sir,” she replied in haste. “You don’t understand! My mother isn’t drunk; she’s at home dying, and she’s afraid to die. She wants to go to heaven, but doesn’t know how. I told her I would find a preacher to get her in. Come quick, sir; she’s dying!”

The preacher could not resist the appeal of the little night caller, so he promised her he would come as soon as he was dressed. As he walked with the little girl through the night, she led him into the slum district to an old house, up a rickety stairway, along a dark hall, and finally to a lone room, where the dying woman lay in the corner.

“I’ve got the preacher for you, Mother. He wasn’t ready to come at first, but he’s here. You just tell him what you want, and do what he tells you, and he’ll get you in!”

At that the poor woman raised her feeble voice and asked, “Can you do anything for a sinner like me? My life has been lived in sin, and now that I’m dying I feel that I’m going to hell, but I don’t want to go there; I want to go to heaven. What can I do now?”

On his own confession the great preacher declared, “I stood there looking into that face and thought, What can I tell her? I have been preaching salvation by reformation, but this poor soul has gone too far to reform. I have been preaching salvation by character, but she hasn’t any. I’ve been proclaiming salvation by ‘ethical culture,’ but she wouldn’t know what the word means and bides she hasn’t time for that. Then it came to me, Why not tell her what your mother used to tell you as a boy. She’s dying, and it can’t hurt her even if it doesn’t do her any good.”

So bending down beside her the preacher began: “My dear woman, God is very gracious and kind, and in His Book, the Bible, He says, ‘God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.’ "

“Oh,” exclaimed the dying won, “does it say that in the Bible? My! That ought to get me in. But, sir, my sins, my sins!”

It was amazing the way the verses came back to him. “My dear won,” he continued, “the Bible says that ‘the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.’ "

“All sin, did you say?” she asked earnestly. “Does it really say, ALL sin? That ought to get me in.”

“Yes,” he replied, kneeling down beside her. “It says ALL sin. The Bible also says that ‘This is a faithful saying, and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners; of whom I am chief.’ "

“Well,” she said, “if the chief got in, I can come. Pray for me, sir!”

With that the preacher bent down and prayed with that poor woman and SHE GOT IN. And in the pross, “while she was getting in,” he confessed, “I MYSELF got in. We two sinners, the preacher and that poor woman, were saved together that night in the little room.”

“Ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold,... but with the precious blood of Christ.” 1 Peter 1:18,19.

ML-04/13/1969

"I Am the Door"

THE LORD JESUS says: “I am the Door: by Me if any man enter in he shall be saved.” John 10:9. Again, “Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

The Lord Jesus is the Door. He does not say “a” door, for there is no other door. The church is not the door; the Ten Commandments are not the door, neither are reformation nor good works the door, as many would like to believe. Jesus is the only door; and a sinner must have to do with Him to have his sins forgiven and washed away, before he can enter in.

The preacher’s good living didn’t get him in, nor did the poor won’s bad life keep her out. Both were sinners—“for all have sinned"—and as such they entered through the same Door to life and peace, by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ.

One door, and only one

And yet its sides are two:

Inside and outside.

On which side are you?

Memory Verse “FOR WITH THE HEART MAN BELIETH UNTO RIGHTEOUSNESS; AND WITH THE MOUTH CONFESSION IS MADE UNTO SALVATION.” Romans 10:10.

ML-04/13/1969

A Happy Home

PERHAPS nothing on earth resembles heaven more than a home where all the family are one in Christ—where His love abounds, His peace reigns, His will is the rule, and His glory the desire of each member of the family. Such a home was that of Mr. and Mrs. Roland Leigh. The father was the first to be born of God. It was in the little back street gospel hall, where much successful work was done for God, that the great change in his life took place. There he passed out of death into life by trusting in Jesus as his Saviour.

Some time afterward, an evangelist was conducting some gospel tent meetings in the town. Roland and his wife and children were present and afterward they had a testimony meeting. One of the little girls said to him, “It’s your turn now, Daddy,” and for the first time he got up and told of the saving, keeping, and separating power of the Lord Jesus. Bore the meeting was over, his dear wife entered a new life through believing on the Lord Jesus. Family prayer, so much neglected in many Christian homes, was begun, and it was the parents’ unspeakable joy around their own fireside to win their children to Jesus. Today, Roland is a leader in the work at the mission hall, and all the family are taking an active part as well. Such homes can only come through the preaching of the glorious gospel of the grace of God, and the guiding and sanctifying power of the Holy Spirit. May such homes increase in our beloved land, and in other lands as well.

He came one day to my poor door,

And knocked and called to me;

“Beloved, let Me in, that I

May sit and sup with thee.

Though I had naught to give Him,

For my house and board were bare,

My heart could not refuse His plea

Nor keep Him waiting there.

And so I opened Him the door,

And told my case, though loath,

He smiled and answered lovingly,

“I have enough for both.”

And from that blessed hour to this,

His friendship has not ceased;

Each day He sits and sups with me,

But He provides the feast!”

“WHOSOEVER WILL, LET HIM TAKE THE WATER OF LIFE FREELY.” Revelation 22:17.

I heard the voice of Jesus say,

“Behold I freely give,

The living water—thirsty one,

Stoop down, and drink, and live.”

I came to Jesus, and I drank

Of that life-giving stream;

My thirst was quenched, my soul revived,

And now I live in Him.

“WHOSOEVER DRINKETH OF THE WER THAT I SHALL GIVE HIM SHALL NEVER THIRST.” John 4:14.

ML-04/13/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 12:25-28

“AND IT shall come to pass, when ye be come to the land which the LORD will give you, according as He hath promised, that ye shall keep this service. And it shall come to pass, when your children shall say unto you, What mean ye by this service? that ye shall say, it is the sacrifice of the LORD’S passover, who passed over the houses of the children of Israel in Egypt, when He smote the Egyptians, and delivered our houses.” 10:25-27.

The memory of their deliverance from judgment by the blood of the passover lamb was to be kept alive by Israel throughout their generations. “Ye shall observe this thing for an ordinance to thee and to thy sons Forever.” When the children, as they witnessed the annual feast, would inquire: “What mean ye by this service?” the parents were to answer plainly.

This responsibility, entrusted to the children of Israel long ago, should exercise the heart of every parent who loves the Lord in our day. Dear father and mother, do your children see in you faithful obedience to God’s Word? Have you faithfully and prayerfully brought before these dear children His truth, and committed them to His care in prayer that they too will take hold of salvation? Have you faithfully read the Scriptures yourselves so that when your children ask, “What mean ye by this service?” you can give them a plain answer from that holy Word, and teach them out of it?

The Lord knew how quickly the Israelites would forget what He had done for them, and He knew too how quickly we would forget the Lord’s sufferings and death for us, so He has given us this precious remembrance feast—the Lord’s supper. Like the disciples of old we can meet to break bread on the first day of each week. The loaf placed on the table tells of the body of the Lord Jesus given in death for us, while the cup speaks of His precious blood shed for the remission of our sins.

When the people heard the words of Moses they bowed their heads and worshiped. How happy it is to see their response to the goodness and mercy of the Lord. Yet we shall soon see with sorrow how they quickly forgot Him, and rebelled, and fell into ways so dishonoring to Him, bringing down His discipline and judgment upon themselves. And we too who have been blessed far above and beyond Israel, who have been brought to a far higher ground of truth than they, must bow in shame at the frequent failures in our walk, and the lack of obedience to the truth that should be our mainstay and joy.

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: whom resist steadfast in the faith.” 1 Peter 5:8,9. One scarcely needs to comment on the moral and spiritual darkness of the day in which we live. May every Christian parent have a true desire, and seek grace as well, to bring up their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. We will do well to have the same spirit as Ezra, who, in view of enemies along the way, turned to God in prayer: “to seek of Him a right way for us, and for our little ones, and for all our substance.” Ezra could rejoice to see his prayer answered, for we read: “so we fasted and besought our God for this: and He was intreated of us.” Ezra 8:21,23.

ML-04/13/1969

The Spider Web

I WAS standing at my window one morning when I heard a loud buzzing noise. Looking around to see where it came from, I saw a very excited honey bee caught in a spider’s web. The web was large and the threads were strong, and as I watched, the spider crept out of his den in the dark corner and made for the bee. I think the poor bee saw him coming for his struggles were terrible to see. But the more he twisted himself about to escape, the closer he wound the fine web about him.

This poor bee was one that had spent his life in gathering honey from the flowers — a busy, useful little fellow, but alas, he was now fast in a snare! How was he to get out? Could his own efforts save him?

No! Very soon the spider would have bitten him, and sucked out his lifeblood. Then he would have wound him up and dragged him into his den, had I not arrived on the scene in time.

The bee had beautiful shiny wings, but they were caught in the web and he could not use them. However, he did more than struggle — he buzzed very loudly, and his cry of terror reached my ear and touched my heart; it drew me to his desperate need. Should he be sucked to death there, and I not save him? No! though he should sting me in his terror, still I would set him free. When the spider saw me move, he stopped just an inch or so from his prey; but when my hand broke up his gossamer web, he fled back to his den. Just a touch of my hand, and the poor prisoner was free again. In a moment he was winging his way back to his hive and back to his friends who would soon clear away the bits of web that still hung about him.

That poor bee made me think of poor sinners caught in the web of sin that Satan has spun to catch them. There is only One who can deliver from the chains of sin and from the power of Satan, and that is the Lord Jesus Christ who came into this world to save sinners. San has captured countless millions and is dragging them down to death and hell, but the Lord Jesus has gone to Calvary’s cross and died, “that through death He might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; and deliver them, who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.” Hebrews 2:14,15.

Dear young friend, I ask you, Do you feel wretched and sad, guilty and afraid to meet God because of your sins? Then cease your struggles and let your cry go up in faith to that Saviour who alone is able but willing to save you. David could say, “In my distress I cried unto the Lord, and He heard me.” Psalms 120:1.

“My help cometh from the Lord, which made heaven and earth.” Psalms 121:2.

ML-04/20/1969

The Debt Paid

THAT GREAT statesman, Henry Clay, was once greatly troubled by a debt of ten thousand dollars, which he owed to the Northern Bank of Kentucky in Lexington. Some of his friends, in different parts of the country, heard of his trouble. In a quiet way they raised the money and paid off the debt, without letting Mr. Clay know of it. In ignorance of what had been done, he went to the bank one day, and addressing Mr. Scott, the caser, he said: “I have called to see you, Mr. Scott, about that debt of mine to the bank.”

“You don’t owe us anything,” replied Mr. Scott.

Mr. Clay looked at him inquiringly, and said, “You don’t understand me, Mr. Scott. I’ve come to talk about the debt of ten thousand dollars that I owe your bank.”

“You don’t owe us a dollar, Mr. Clay.”

“Why, what do you mean?” asked Mr. Clay in utter amazement.

“I mean, sir, that a number of your friends have united together and paid off your debt. There’s nothing on our books against you.”

Mr. Clay could not speak a word. Tears filled his eyes, as he turned and walked quietly out of the bank.

And this is what the Lord Jesus has done for poor sinners who have trusted in Him as their Saviour, in the language of the hymn: —

“Jesus paid it all,

All the debt I owe;

Sin had left a crimson stain,

He washed it white as snow.”

Seek ye the LORD while He may be found, call ye upon Him while He is near. Isaiah 55. 6

Oh, come to the Saviour, He’s calling today.

How long wilt thou linger? His voice now obey.

He’s speaking from heaven in love to thy soul;

His blood He has given: wilt thou be made whole?

The Saviour is coming for all who believe;

The Star of the morning, His own to receive.

O sinner, confess Him, the throne-seated Lord,

And thou shalt be with Him where He is adored.

ML-04/20/1969

Extracts From a Letter

Dear friends, young and old: You will be interested in these extracts of a letter from two of our dear brethren who are at present serving the Lord in Ghana, Africa.

“The Word of God and tracts of all kinds are received gratefully everywhere. Even government officials in the Immigration Office and the Ministry of Education all rejoice in the gospel papers. This amazes me—I believe our land is turning away from the truth, while over here in this land people from the Paramount Chief and head of the city’s educational system on down, are all happy we are here to tell the story of Jesus and His love.

We have a nice letter from the head of the Ministry of Education asking the schoolmasters to let us tell the children in the schools of Accra (500,000 pop.) about Jesus and His love. The dear man had read a “Whither Bound,” and enjoyed the lovely gospel stories so much. He asked for more, and also for a large concordance Bible which we furnished him.

In Cape Coast, 90 miles from our city, we spent two nights and a day. We were welcomed by a few of my correspondents there. They had a nice Rest House reserved for us, and we were taken to the Chief of the city. He talked through Anafi, one of my friends, welcoming us to preach the word of God in his city. He told us he loved to read the Bible, pointing to several of them in a desk and telling us it was the food for our souls, and that he had a room to one side of the reception room where he studied the Word. I gave him “The Blessed Hope,” by Edw. Dennett which I had along. Well, we had a street meeting in the center of town at 7:30 p.m., and several hundred were present. Aer the meeting we were absolutely mobbed by the crowd, grabbing, pushing, and crying for tracts, Messages, and Echoes of Grace. We were trying to hand them out without their being torn up. We had four gospel meetings the next day in schools and the leprosarium. We came home the next morning worn out. God is working here. I wish space would allow me to tell more of our happy experiences here. Bibles are wanted everywhere we go—the hotel workers, the nurses in the hospitals. We get a Bible over here for 65c. Please continue to pray for us.”

Love and thanks again in Him...

W.S.

How this hunger for the bread of life in other less privileged lands puts many of us to shame. May it stir our hearts to appreciate more the treasure God has given us in the Bible and cause us to put forth more diligence in reading and meditating on His precious Word.

Next week’s issue brings us down to the end of another year of publishing Messages of the Love of God. To the God of all grace, our Father, and to His beloved Son, be all the praise!

We are thankful for so many who have answered the Bible Questions over the past months; we hope you will continue, and that others will be encouraged to answer them as well. If you have missed sending in your answers for any of the past months we urge you to do so at once so that we can send you the best possible award. Awards will be mailed early in June and names of answerers will appear in the June 15 issue.

ML-04/20/1969

The Story of Moses, The Man of God

Ex. 12:29,30

“AND IT came to pass, that at midnight the LORD smote all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, from the firstborn of Pharaoh that sat on his throne unto the firstborn of the captive that was in the dungeon; and all the firstborn of cattle. And Pharaoh rose up in the night, he, and all his servants, and all the Egyptians; and there was a great cry in Egypt: for there was not a house where there was not one dead.” vv 29-30.

The dread judgment of which Pharaoh had been warned now fell across the land. Throughout Egypt a grief-stricken cry “such as there was none like it, nor shall be like it any more,” spoke of the anguish in every house. Nor did the palace of Pharaoh escape. The proud and haughty ruler, with all his pomp and wealth—all his gods and musicians—could avail not one iota to stay the sword of the angel who, at God’s command, had slain the eldest of his household and all households throughout his kingdom. Death made its solemn presence known to every family of Egypt—rich and poor alike. But remorse could not avail once judgment had taken place and the cry of this unhappy people was great indeed.

Today the message of a greater judgment soon to visit this world is faithfully told by God’s servants, just as it was in Moses’ day, and the warning sounded: “Flee from the wrath to come.” How strange and tragic that many turn a deaf ear to these pleas and oftentimes ridicule both the messenger and the message, when all the while God is graciously inviting them to come within the shelter of the salvation He has prided. Yet His patience will end and judgment will most certainly come, just as in Pharaoh’s day. Men and women, boys and girls, do well to heed the warning: “Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.” Eph. 5:6.

As the warning is given, the invitation is yet graciously extended. “The Lord is not slack concerning His promise, as some men count slackness; but is long-suffering to usward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” 2 Peter 3:9. “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. Could God be more faithful in both His warnings and His invitations? His urgent call includes these words: “Today if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts.” Heb. 3:15.

If you are still a stranger to God’s grace, turn this very moment to Him with whom you will have to do, whether it be in mercy now or in judgment later. Accept His invitation: “If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” Rom. 10:9.

Memory Verse “OUR SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST; WHO GAVE HIMSELF FOR US, THAT HE MIGHT REDEEM US FROM ALL INIQUITY.” Titus 2:13,14.

ML-04/20/1969

John's Fortune

“YOU LOOK specially pleased I about something this morning, John. Have you come into a fortune?”

John Craig, Mr. Coburn’s gardener, was busy planting early peas when his master accosted him with this question.

“I came into a fortune many a year ago, sir,” came the answer, accompanied by a bright smile and a respectful touch of his hat.

“Really! And you are still gardening?”

“Yes, sir, still gardening.”

Mr. Coburn laughed knowingly. “Oh, John,” he said, “you transparent soul; but I can see through your little ruse. You would like to get me converted, wouldn’t you?”

Honest John Craig looked straight into the handsome though dissatisfied face of his master. “Sir,” he said, “it would be one of the happiest moments of my life.”

Mr. Coburn was still smiling.

“Well, I am afraid you will not have that joy, John. Your religion is too cheap for me.”

A look of pained surprise came into the man’s eyes. “Cheap, sir! Begging your pardon, but—would you call it cheap if you was called upon to part with Miss Essie? The Lord of glory gave His only Son, to die to save you and me from death and judgment. It was a vast cost, sir, a very vast cost. Seems to me there was nothing cheap about that sacrifice, sir—again begging your pardon, and no offense meant.”

“Oh no, of course not, my good fellow, I know you too well for that; but we must agree to differ, that’s all. How about these peas; are they all early ones?” And so the conversation was changed.

That evening after dinner, Mr. Coburn was standing in front of the fireplace deep in thought, when he heard a patter of footsteps, and the next minute his only child, little motherless Essie, ran into the room and seated herself on the chair bide him.

“Well,” he said, folding his arms and looking down tenderly at the white-robed figure, “and what’s the meaning of this visit?”

“Essie can’t sleep,” came the plaintive answer, “she dot such a sore froat.”

He caught her into his arms in alarm. “Sore throat, my pet, does it hurt much?”

“Drefful,” answered the child, speaking with difficulty.

An awful fear tugged at the father’s heart. Diphtheria was raging in the village three miles away; was it possible his darling had contracted it?

His fears were not groundless. Bore twelve hours had passed, wee Essie was fighting the grim disease with every fiber of her little being, and her father, in an agony, sat in his study, alone.

“Would you call it cheap, sir, if you was called upon to part with Little Essie?”

The words came back to him now

—relentlessly, persistently.

“Cheap! Oh, God,” he muttered hoarsely, “forgive! forgive! forgive!”

~~~

It was some weeks later, and the peas John Craig had sown were showing in nice straight rows.

“How well I call to mind the day I sowed ’em!” he was thinking, “and the little word I was permitted to speak for my Master. I wonder what time they’ll be home? It was to be today, I’m thinking.”

Almost as if in answer to his thoughts, John caught sight of a tall familiar figure coming toward him, and in another moment Mr. Coburn was by his side.

“We have only just arrived home, John,” he said, “and you will be glad to hear that Miss Essie is quite her old self again.” He paused—“And I—”

“Yes, sir.”

“I have come into my fortune, John.” In his deep sorrow and distress, he had turned to the Lord who had so graciously forgiven all his sins. And now he was happily saved.

He held out his hand, and the gardener clasped it with both of his, toil-stained though they were. Tears of joy were in his eyes, as he said, “I knew my prayers would be answered, sir. I knew it. Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me bless His holy name.”

“There is no difference...: for the same Lord over all is rich unto all that call upon Him.” Rom. 10:12.

The best book to read is the Bible,

If you read it every day,

It will help you on your way,

Yes, the best book to read is the Bible.

ML-04/27/1969

Happy Paul

PAUL WAS a bright intelligent schoolboy. We were holding some children’s gospel meetings in his village and he attended the happy hours for boys and girls.

One night at the close of a meeting he said to the evangelist: “Am I too young to become a Christian? If not, I would like to be saved tight.” The speaker took his Bible and showed Paul that the Lord Jesus had said: “Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto Me; for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”

“When the Lord Jesus told His disciples that they were not to hinder or forbid the children to come to Him,” said his friend, “He showed that He wanted them to come.”

“What does it mean to come?” asked Paul.

“It means to confess that you are a sinner and to trust the Lord Jesus who died for our sins and rose again. When we do, then salvation becomes ours.”

“Then I’ll trust Him now,” said the little fellow. After that he never doubted his salvation. He confessed the Lord Jesus as His Saviour in his home and among his playmates.

Two years after his father testified: “I was a religious man, but not saved. It was through the simple faith and assurance of our little boy that my wife and I were persuaded that we too might know our sins forgiven. He insisted on our coming to the tent meetings, and now, thank God, we can both say, Our sins which were many are all forgiven. We both long now that others should know our best Friend and Saviour—the Lord Jesus Christ.”

ML-04/27/1969

From Prison to Heaven

A GREEK Christian living at Corfu used to visit the prison and speak to the inmates. During one visit, he had a two hours’ talk with a condemned man whose hands had more than once been stained with human blood. After a long talk the man asked in despair, “Is it possible for me to be saved?”

“Yes,” answered the Christian, “for Christ is the Saviour of sinners.”

“Oh,” said the prisoner, “I do want to be saved.” A most solemn conversation followed, and the Christian left a New Testament with him, with several gospel verses marked.

The execution took place three days after the conversation, and the Christian was among the crowd. The prisoner was quite calm, and when asked if he had anything to say, he replied, “As soon as I die, I will be with Christ.”

The law could not forgive him for his crimes called for the death penalty. But God could forgive one who trusted in Jesus, for Jesus had died for his sins, and heaven opened to welcome the redeemed sinner. What a Saviour Jesus is! Now no one is too bad to be saved if he will only believe in Him, for He came into the world to save sinners.

“I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” Luke 5:32.

Memory Verse “ALL WE LIKE SHEEP HAVE GONE ASTRAY: WE HAVE TURNED EVERY ONE TO HIS OWN WAY: AND THE LORD HATH LAID ON HIM THE INIITY OF US ALL.” Isa. 53:6.

ML-04/27/1969

The Story of Moses

Ex. 12:31-42

THE LORD had previously said: “Yet will I bring one plague more upon Pharaoh, and upon Egypt; afterward he will let you go... he shall surely thrust you out hence altogether.” This is exactly what now took place. With the cries of his people ringing in his ears, fearful of further disaster, Pharaoh did not wait for morning light but “called for Moses and Aaron by night, and said, Rise up, and get you forth from among my people, both ye and the children of Israel; and go, serve the LORD, as ye have said.” No longer seeking to withhold some of the company, as in the past, he desperately exclaimed: “Also take your flocks and your herds, as ye have said, and be gone.”

No doubt Moses had often thought back on the promise: “I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, and I will rid you out of their bondage, and I will reem you with a stretched out arm, and with great judgments.” Now he saw the event taking place before his eyes. God had manifested His power and authority, while Pharaoh’s stubborn resistance had only brought disaster upon himself and his people. Now he was compelled to humble himself. Formerly employing every means to keep the Israelites in the land, he now implored them to depart. Such are God’s wondrous ways for His people that He can change the purposes and acts of the world’s greatest powers at His will.

The people of Egypt, too, mourning their dead, exerted every effort to hasten the departure, lavishing upon the Israelites “jewels of silver, and jewels of gold, and raiment: and the LORD gave the people favor in the sight of the Egyptians, so that they lent unto them such things as they required: and they spoiled the Egyptians.” But this was only what the Egyptians had long owed the people of Israel whom they had treated as slaves. God saw to it that they recompensed His people for their service to the Egyptians.

God had providentially prepared the people for just such a departure. They had eaten their passover supper in haste, shoes were on their feet, their loins girded, and a staff in the hand of each, even as the word to leave was given. There were “about six hundred thousand on foot that were men, beside children. And a mixed multitude went up also with them; and flocks, and herds, even very much cattle.” vv. 37-38. It was an imposing number who forsook the land of Egypt. God alone could bring about the circumstances that thus brought their release after those several hundred years of dwelling there, and most of those years were in servitude and suffering. “And it came to pass at the end of the four hundred and thirty years, even the self-same day it came to pass, that all the hosts of the LORD went out from the land of Egypt. It is a night to be much observed unto the LORD for bringing them out from the land of Egypt.”

Thus, too, was fulfilled the word of the Lord to Abraham, long bore the Israelites appeared on the scene: “Thy seed shall be a stranger in a land that is not theirs, and shall serve them; and they shall afflict them four hundred years; And also that nation, whom they shall serve, will I judge: and afterward shall they come out with great substance.” Gen. 15:13. What God had promised He was able also to perform (Rom. 4:21).

ML-04/27/1969

Seized by an Alligator

DOWN ON the plains of Venezuela there was a boy who knew the Lord Jesus as his Saviour, and had confessed Him fearlessly before others. One day he went down to the river in the early morning to get water for the house. Unknown to him an alligator was lying in the water watching him. Waiting his opportunity, the alligator suddenly leaped on the boy and gripping him by the leg, carried him into the river.

There was no one nearby to help the poor boy, and in his desperation he cried out, “Lord Jesus, save me!” The alligator, for some outwardly unexplainable reason, dropped the boy. The little fellow clambered out of the river and ran to the house, with the marks of the alligator’s teeth on his thigh.

We know why the alligator dropped him; for surely it was God who answered the prayer of the poor boy in his desperate need. His Word tells us, “The eyes of the Lord are upon the righteous, and His ears are open unto their cry.” Psalms 34:15. He also says in Psalms 50:15, “Call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me.”

What a wonderful thing it is, dear young friends, to belong to Christ. Those who come to Him as guilty sinners, desiring to be saved, have their sins put away forever. He makes them His own, for they are bought with a price (1 Cor. 6:20); and nothing can happen to them but what He allows for their good and blessing. He might have allowed the alligator to carry off that dear boy, but then for him “sudden death would be sudden glory.” He tells us in His Word that for the child of God, “to die is gain,” and “to depart, and to be with Christ;... is far better.” Philippians 1:21. 23.

If you, who read these lines, do not yet know this precious Saviour, we urge you to come now to Him, and drink the refreshing streams of God’s grace. Rejoice in the sunshine of His love, and set out on the road to heaven.

ML-05/04/1969

A Living Testimony

IN A Bible conference one evening the speaker was late in arriving. Someone suggested that the waiting time be spent with a few words from anyone who wished to speak. After a long pause, a boy stood up and slowly and very thoughtfully repeated the words:

“Jesus, I my cross have taken,

All to leave and follow Thee;

Destitute, despised, forsaken,

Thou, from hence my all shall be.”

He then sat down. The people were deeply moved and sought to learn his story. He was a Jewish boy who, because he had taken Christ as his Messiah and Saviour, was cast out of his home. He was disinherited, with his name erased from the family record. What little he possessed was taken from him. His parents said that they never wanted to see his face again. The boy had left all—“destitute, despised, forsaken!”

“For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake.” Philippians 1:29.

“Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven.” Matthew 5:11,12.

ML-05/04/1969

I Want to Be a Sinner

THELMA, age 4, had just returned from Sunday school when she amazed her aunt by asking: “Auntie, am I a sinner?”

“Why, no,” said auntie. “I guess —I hope not!”

“Well, I want to be a sinner,” said Thelma soberly.

“O, no you don’t,” said auntie.

“Yes, I do,” insisted the little girl, “Cause the preacher said, Jesus died to save sinners, an’ I doesn’t want to be lost!”

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Timothy 1:15.

ML-05/04/1969

Small Things for Him

“I cannot do great things for Him

Who did so much for me;

But I would like to show my love,

Lord Jesus, unto Thee.

Faithful in very little things,

O, Saviour, may I be.

There are small things in daily life

In which I may obey;

And thus may show my love to Thee

And always—every day—

There are some little, loving words

Which I for Thee may say.

I ask Thee, Lord, to give me grace,

My little place to fill;

That I may ever walk with Thee,

And ever do Thy will;

And in each duty, great or small,

I may be faithful still.”

Memory Verse “I LOVE THEM THAT LOVE ME; AND THOSE THAT SEEK ME EARLY SHALL FIND ME.” Proverbs 8:17.

They that seek the LORD shall not want any good thing. Psalms 34. 10

OH, won’t you be a Christian while you’re young?

Don’t think it will be better

To delay it until later,

But remember your Creator while you’re young.

ML-05/04/1969

The Young People's Class: Joshua

1. What did the children of Israel in Joshua’s time receive as an inheritance from the Lord? Josh.

2. Who are spoken of in this Christian dispensation as having obtained an inheritance? Ephesians 1.

3. For what cause would Israel be plucked from off the land that was given to them? Deuteronomy 28.

4. Can the Christian’s inheritance fade away? 1 Peter 1.

5. Why was Joshua exhorted to be strong and very courageous? Josh.

6. In what way is Scripture profitable to the Christian for his pathway. 2 Timothy 3.

7. Whose strength can we appropriate in time of need? Ephesians 6.

ML-05/04/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 12:43-51

AS THE children of Israel went out of Egypt a “mixed multitude” accompanied them. Some were Egyptians who had forsaken the gods of the Nile and cast their lot with Israel. Some may have been from other lands. Now before the long journey commenced God wisely gave instructions concerning these people: “And the Lord said unto Moses and Aaron, This is the ordinance of the passover: There shall no stranger eat thereof: but every man’s servant that is bought for money, when thou hast circumcised him, then shall he eat thereof. A foreigner and a hired servant shall not eat thereof... and when a stranger shall sojourn with thee, and will keep the passover to the LORD, let all his males be circumcised, and then let him come near and keep it; and he shall be as one that is born in the land: for no uncircumcised person shall eat thereof... " 10:43-49.

Long before, in the days of Abraham, God had instituted the ordinance of circumcision, which was to be the “mark in the flesh” that would distinguish Israel from all other nations. It was a token of the covenant God had made with Abraham and his seed, as also it signified the separation of a people to God. What circumcision was to the Israelite spoke of that which the cross of Christ is to the Christian. It typifies the putting off of the body of the flesh by one who has accepted the cross of Christ as the end of all flesh, because it was there Christ Himself was cut off by death (see Col. 2:11). Thus the Christian is now associated with a rejected and crucified Christ, proclaims death to the old nature that formerly governed his thoughts and actions, and is separated unto Christ from the world. Walking in separation and practical holiness it was no more suited for an uncircumcised stranger to eat of the passover supper than for an unsaved person today to partake of the Lord’s supper, or intrude into the holy things of Christ. God provided, in His grace, that the alien who would take his place with Israel and eat of the passover, could do so by accepting the mark of circumcision. Grace now provides for those who desire to be associated with Christ and His people and who wish to escape the pollutions of this evil world. By turning to Christ for salvation and by taking their place with Him as a crucified and risen Saviour, their happy privilege is now to partake of the Lord’s supper in loving remembrance of His death.

The passover was always to be eaten entirely within the house; none of it was to be carried outside. It was only for those who were under the shelter of the blood. “Neither shall ye break a bone thereof,” because it was a type of Christ.

The “mixed multitude” that went up with the children of Israel out of Egypt became a source of weakness and failure to the Israelites, even as they have been to God’s people in every age. The professing church is largely a mixture of beliers and unbelievers; many are even open apostates. May we heed the faithful word of the Apostle to Timothy: “Let every one that nameth the name of Christ [Lord] depart from iniquity.... If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honor, sanctified, and meet for the master’s use, and prepared unto every good work.” 2 Timothy 2:19.

ML-05/04/1969

Blind Gopaul: The Little Hindu Boy

INDIA IS a land of bright days and sunny skies, but little Gopaul had never seen the beauties of his home land, for he was born blind; more than that, he was an orphan. His only living relative was his old grandmother, with whom he made his home. They lived in a sort of cave dug in the ground and covered with tree limbs. With them also lived an old dog—Gopaul’s constant friend and companion. During the day the grandmother spun cotton in front of the cave and the poor blind boy, guided by a string tied to his faithful dog, went begging from house to house. His day might end with either praise or blame, depending on how much he had gleaned from his daily rounds.

“Poor Gopaul!” my readers might say. Indeed he was to be pitied as he was not only physically blind, but living in a land of heathen darkness, he was also spiritually blind. Nevertheless God had His eye upon him.

One morning Gopaul, guided by his faithful dog, made the usual round in the neighborhood. The sun in the Indian heavens sent its rays upon the poor bareheaded boy. Sweat poured down his brow and face. As he wandered about, the dog led his master through an open gate. Behind some trees the faithful anal discovered a house, in front of which rested a European gentleman, dressed in white. As they drew near the dog stood still, and by a peculiar growl, gave notice to the blind boy that they were in the presence of someone. At once the boy bowed again and again until his head nearby touched the ground. However, he was unaware that he was bowing to a courteous gentleman who would give him an alm, much less that he would lead him to the Lord Jesus.

This European missionary had laboured with much success in India. Filled with pity he looked on the poor blind boy standing before him clothed in dirty rags. Touched with sympathy, he asked the boy, “Where do you come from, and what do you want?”

Encouraged by the kind voice, he raised his brown face and in a pitiful voice said, “Boukka hy, Sahib (I am very hungry, sir).”

The missionary then threw a piece of money toward the boy to see if he were really blind, or if he might not try to catch it, but Gopaul rained indifferent. However the dog ran up, grabbed the money in his teeth, and laid it in the hand of his master.

Soon the man inquired further into the circumstances of the boy. He ascertained that the poor lad spoke the truth. Before long he had secured a suit of clothing for Gopaul with the promise that he would come daily to the nearby school. Here he would learn verses and repeat them to the younger children every day. He would then receive enough money to keep him from begging and to take care of his old grandmother.

“Good, very good, Sahib!” cried the boy. “Sahib, my father, and a very good father for poor Gopaul.”

Every day the faithful dog lead his master to school and waited at the door to take the happy boy, clutching his money, back to the grandmother’s hovel. The boy seemed diligent and steadfast, and like most blind people, had an usually good memory. In a short time he had learned many verses and did not forget them. However, the missionary feared that the boy did not get the meaning of the verses, but merely repeated them parrot-fashion. But we will see if the good man was right.

Not long after this the missionary had to be away for two months. On his return he visited the school, but in vain looked for Gopaul. He was told that some weeks before his grandmother had come and dragged him away. The poor woman, who was an ignorant idol worshipper, had been told that the boy was learning many evil words from the gospel book, and so induced the wrath of their gods.

On the evening of the same day the missionary hastened to the pitiful dwelling place of the old woman. He entered the narrow opening and noticed the poor blind boy lying on a bamboo bed, with a pillow of rags under his head. The faithful dog, watching at the foot of his master, sprang up at once to greet the visor.

“Gopaul, my dear, are you sick?” the kind man was asking as he drew near. The boy, thinking it was his grandmother, answered in a weak voice that grew louder, “Oh, Mother, let me die! I cannot stay any longer in this dark place! Look there—oh how bright! I am going where it is all light! Oh, Mother, believe me, the words are true that I learned at school. Yes it is true, God sent His Son into the world to die for sinners.”

Now the boy paused, then he raised his voice again and repeated one Bible verse after another that he had learned in school. One verse seemed especially pleasing to him, and need we be surprised that Job 19:25-27 would be precious to this one who in his lifetime had known nothing but darkness?

In a plain voice he said, “I know that my Redeemer liveth, and that He shall stand at the latter day upon the earth; and though after my skin, worms destroy this body, yet in my flesh shall I see God; whom I shall see for myself, and mine eyes’ shall behold, and not another.”

Twice he repeated the passages, but on the third attempt his voice failed, and he fell back exhausted upon the dirty rags.

Huge tears filled the eyes of the missionary. He recognized here a precious trophy of his labors. Dropping on his knees he adored the One who had counted him worthy to find this hidden jewel and place him in the crown of his Redeemer forever.

Another day and night and the voice of the blind boy ceased forever on this earth. And what were his last words?

“I see, I see!” he cried, “Now I have light, light! I can see Him in all His beauty! Tell my Sahib that he who was blind can now see. Glorious! Glorious!” With these words he gently fell asleep and angels carried his happy spirit beyond. There he shall see what eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him. (1 Cor. 2:9.)

ML-05/11/1969

The Little Cripple Boy

A LITTLE boy was so crippled that he could not even turn over the leaves of a book, but he loved his Bible, and used to keep it open before him. A friend asked him one day why he was so fond of reading it. He simply replied, “I like to read the Bible, because it tells me about the Lord Jesus Christ.”

“Do you think you have believed on Him?”

The child’s face lighted up as he answered,

“Yes, I know I have.’

“But what makes you think so?” He promptly replied, “Because I know Him as my Saviour, and He helps me to bear the pain patiently.”

ML-05/11/1969

"Nobody Loves Me"

WHEN I was a boy, an old man frequently visited our village. At one time he had been in a prosperous way, but, becoming a slave to strong drink, he had lost a small fortune and with it many of his friends. Like the prodigal mentioned in the 15th chapter of Luke’s Gospel, when he spent his all in riotous living, he was forsaken, and disowned.

One day when this old man was walking along one of the streets of the village in a disconsolate mood, he was muttering to himself, “Nobody loves me! Nobody loves me!” A little girl who had been to Sunday school, and who had heard of the love of God, quietly stole up to him, and rather nervously pulling at the tail of his jacket said—“Yes, sir, somebody loves you: God loves you.”

Eternity will alone reveal the effect of this word “spoken in season.”

Did God really love this poor old man, broken and marred by sin? Most certainly, for does not John 3:16 say, “God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

Memory Verse “FOR THERE IS ONE GOD, AND ONE MEDIATOR BETWEEN GOD AND MEN, THE MAN CHRIST JESUS.” 1 Tim. 2:5.

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

CHILDREN of Jerusalem

Sang the praise of Jesu’s name,

Children, too, of modern days

Join to sing the Saviour’s praise.

We are taught to love the Lord,

We are taught to read His Word,

We are taught the way to heaven;

Praise for all to God be given.

Parents, teachers; old and young,

All unite to swell the song;

Higher and yet higher rise,

Till hosannas reach the skies.

ML-05/11/1969

The Story of Moses, the Man of God

Ex. 13:1-13

WHEN THE children of Israel went forth out of Egypt they were given the passover feast as a perpetual remembrance of what God had done for them. Now they are given an ordinance that would remind them of the way the Lord had spared their firstborn from death.

If God in grace acts for His people, He establishes claims upon them, and it is these claims that we have brought before us here. A redeemed people henceforth belong to the Redeemer.

“And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying, Sanctify unto Me all the firstborn... among the children of Israel, both of man and of beast: it is Mine.” This act of sanctifying, or setting apart, to the Lord was expressly connected with the destruction of the firstborn in the land of Egypt. Israel had been spared that terrible night solely on the ground of the sprinkled blood of the slain lamb. Thus if God spared the firstborn because of the passover lamb, from then on He claimed them as His own. And so it is with beliers now. They belong to Him who has redeemed them, because He took their place, and bore their sins in His own body on the tree. He died for all, that they who live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto Him who died for them and rose again (2 Cor. 5:15).

Of course, in Israel this was a law—they must own the Lord’s claim—but in Christianity it is the love of Christ that constrains us. When we think of all that He has done for us, of the great cost of our redemption, surely we should feel that we belong to Him. “Ye are not your own. For ye are bought with a price.” 1 Corinthians 6:19,20. May we who are saved be like those saints in Macedonia, who “first gave their own selves to the Lord.” 2 Corinthians 8:5.

Lord, we are Thine: Thy claims we own,

Ourselves to Thee we’d wholly give;

Reign Thou within our hearts alone,

And let us to Thy glory live;

Here let us each Thy mind display,

In all Thy gracious image shine;

And haste that long-expected day

When Thou shalt own that we are Thine.

“And thou shalt show thy son in that day, saying, This is done because of that which the Lord did unto me when I came forth out of Egypt. And it shall be for a sign unto thee upon thine hand, and for a memorial before thine eyes, that the Lord’s law may be in thy mouth: for with a strong hand hath the Lord brought thee out of Egypt.” vv. 8,9. The remembrance of what the Lord had done for them was to be upon their hands—affecting all they did; for a memorial between their eyes—they were to keep before their eyes and hearts that they were a redeemed people; and in their mouths—the subject of their conversation. In other words, it was to affect all their life from then on. So the knowledge of Christ as our Saviour should affect our whole life.

ML-05/11/1969

John O' the Score

MANY years ago there was a notorious highway robber in the southern part of Scotland, known far and wide as “John o’ the Score.” After carrying on his dishonest practices for many years, he met a poor man traveling with two horses, which he took from him. The countryman, falling down on his knees, earnestly begged him “for Jesus Christ’s sake” to return one of them, as they were his sole means of livelihood, and he had a wife and family. It was all in vain; the thief was obdurate and carried off both the horses.

Not long after a great change took place in Score. He became restless and unhappy, unable to sleep and careless of his personal safety. The only reason he gave for the difference was that he could not forget the words the countryman had used “for Jesus Christ’s sake,” although he was so ignorant he did not know whom he meant by “Jesus Christ.” He had never heard that name bore but he could not forget it. So wretched and careless did he become that when he knew the officers of the Crown were on his track he told his sons to seek safety, but could not himself flee.

There was a seeming restraint on him that prevented him from leaving his house. He was apprehended, taken to Edinburgh, tried, convicted and sentenced to death. While in prison he was visited by a godly minister and a Christian gentleman who had known something of him years before. They pointed out to him his danger as a lost sinner, not only condemned to meet death by the law of the land, but beyond that the SECOND DEATH, even the lake of fire, at the hand of a holy God; and they urged him to “flee at once to Jesus Christ.”

No sooner had they uttered that name, which is above every name, than Score exclaimed: “Oh, what word is that? It has been the word that has lain upon my heart ever since the poor man spoke it, so that from that time I had no power to flee!”

Simply and tenderly they told the condemned criminal who He is whose name had had such an effect on him, the holy Son of God who became Man in order to atone for sin —even for such sins as his; they told of His crucifixion, and of His resurrection, and that by Him alone could he be saved, for “there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.”

“Oh,” he exclaimed, “will He ever look at me, and show me mercy, who for His sake would not show mercy to that poor man, and give him back his horse?”

“But God, who is rich in mercy” is “rich unto all that call upon Him,” and He delights to show grace to the most unlikely and most unworthy. Not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace has He saved us; and according to the same glorious standard He saved poor Score. “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners,” even such as he; and the Holy Spit, who had brought home to him the power of the name of Jesus in so remarkable a way, brought home to him, too, the saving power of that name; and the poor condemned thief knew that God for Christ’s sake had forgiven him.

A wonderful change came over him; and when at length the day of execution arrived, and he was led out to the scaffold erected in the public street, he confessed before all what the grace of God had done for him, how the precious blood of Christ had atoned for his sins, and that he was passing into the presence of God knowing they were all forgiven “for Jesus Christ’s sake.”

Surely, dear friends, the story of redeeming love ought to melt our hard hearts. Before God none of us are any better than poor “John o’ the Score,” “For all have sinned.” Romans 3:23.

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

ML-05/18/1969

"I Wish Your Father Was My Father"

A FRIEND of mine was going down the street the other day when he saw two small boys walking along with their heads very close together, as if they were good friends.

So my friend crept up behind them and listened to what they were sang. He found the one boy was telling the other about what a good kind father he had, how he took him for nice walks, bought things for him, and gave him spending money, and other things.

Presently the other boy said sadly, “I wish your father was my father.”

But that was impossible, however much he might wish it. Now every Christian boy or girl has a Father in heaven who is very kind to His children. He loves them just as He loves His own dearly beloved Son, the Lord Jesus. He makes them glad, watches over them, keeps them, and does many wonderful things for them. Perhaps there is one of our readers who is thinking, “I wish your Father were my Father.” If so, you can have God for your Father too, right now. If you will put your trust in the Lord Jesus as your Saour, you will become one of God’s own dear children at once.

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

“God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet siers, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8.

ML-05/18/1969

Sally's Trust

A LITTLE girl named Sally, who loved the Lord Jesus, was one day sent out to pay a bill for her grandmother. The distance from home was quite far, and the way somewhat lonely. After she had paid the money, she turned to go home, but it became dark before she reached there.

As she passed along, a man met her in the dark, and surprised at finding a little girl like her alone, he asked, “Little girl! aren’t you afraid to go in this lonely place in the dark?”

“Oh, no!” she answered, “for God is with me.”

They parted, and Sally soon foot the incident. But God made use of it, for her words were to be used in blessing to the man she had met. Soon after Sally was sent to Sunday school. She became very fond of her teacher, and her teacher became very fond of her. One day her teacher told her that her husband wished to see her, so she went with the lady to her home, and after eating dinner there, the teacher’s husband said to Sally. “Do you remember meeting a man many months ago on the road in the evening, who asked you if you were not afraid?”

“Yes, sir,” she answered, “I do.”

“Well,” he said, “I was that man. I was drunk at the time; but your answer, that God was with you, clung to me, and I thought it over when I became sober, and the Lord used it to lead me to Himself. I became one of His children by believing in the Lord Jesus Christ. I want to thank you, and let you know that the Lord used you in my salvation, not only from drunkenness, but from hell.” How happy it made Sally to hear this.

Sally is grown up now and suffers greatly from a bodily affliction, but she is still able to say, “I am not afraid, for God is with me.”

It is a very precious thing to be able to say that, and the reader may be able to say it too, through simply believing what God tells us of His Son and of His love for us, and resting on His work on the cross for salvation. We can have peace with God not only about our sins, but about everything else that happens to us in our lives, by casting all our care upon Him, knowing that in everything He cares for us.

“Casting all your care upon Him: for He careth for you.” 1 Peter 5:7.

Memory Verse “JESUS SAITH UNTO HIM, I AM THE WAY, THE TRUTH, AND THE LIFE: NO MAN COMETH UNTO THE FATHER, BUT BY ME.” John 14:6.

SALVATION IS OF THE LORD. Jonah 2:9

He’s your best and truest Friend,

One who always will defend.

Do not let Him knock in vain,

He may never come again.

Hear His gentle, loving voice.

Bid Him welcome, and rejoice.

ML-05/18/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 13:1-13 (Cont’d)

“AND EVERY firstling of an ass thou shalt redeem with a lamb; and if thou wilt not redeem it, then thou shalt break his neck: and all the firstborn of man among thy children shalt thou redeem.” God would have His people ever to remember that they were a redeemed and separated people. The bringing together of the firstling of the ass with the firstborn of man is very striking; both alike were to be redeemed. The firstling of the ass was to be redeemed with a lamb, and the firstborn of Israel were redeemed with a lamb on the night of the Passover. Furthermore, the ass was to be destroyed if not redeemed, even as the Israelites would have been destroyed when the Lord smote the Egyptians. The ass was numbered among the unclean animals in Israel; it also has a stubborn nature, and since we too have such stubborn natures, God compares each one of us naturally to an ass. “For vain man would be wise, though man be born like a wild ass’s colt.” Job 11:12.

Man born into this world is classed with the firstling of an ass because both alike are unclean, and as such doomed to destruction, unless redeemed with a lamb. How humbling this is to man’s pride! He may boast of what he is, of his intellect and capabilities, but here we have God’s estimate of his condition. The believer bows to this truth; “let God be true, but every man a liar.” Romans 3:4. For that was our state by nature—lost and helpless—and we would surely have perished if God in the riches of His grace had not redeemed us by the blood of the Lamb.

The classing of the firstling of an ass and the firstborn child might have seemed strange to an Israelite and contrary to his thoughts; perhaps he might have been inclined to keep their little one on “higher ground,” and class him along with a clean beast, but God’s thoughts and ways are not man’s.

Man in his pride seeks to elevate himself, and overlook the fact that he is fallen. Yet even the sweetest babe is born with a sinful nature which as the child grows will early show itself in naughty ways, self-will and disobedience. It is no use to shut our eyes to this circumstance; there it is in all its stark reality—sin is present in every babe born into this world, and this sinful nature is abhorrent to a holy God as shown in the uncleanness pronounced upon the ass. If the owner cared not to redeem the ass with a lamb, or neglected to do so, then it was to suffer the penalty of death. Man who like the ass ruses or neglects the redemption which is in Christ Jesus, faces death and judgment in his uncleanness Whereas one who by the simple act of faith in this day of grace accepts the atoning work of Christ as the way of forgiveness, is cleansed from all his sins and instead of eternal judgment his portion becomes eternal joy.

In classing the firstborn of man with the ass, a more degrading comparison could hardly be made. Yet how it magnifies the grace of God who condescended to meet us in that state, brought us to Himself and associated us forever with the Lamb by whom we have been redeemed. We could not have fallen lower; yet grace could not have raised us higher; for God has predestined us “to be conformed to the image of His Son, that He might be the Firstborn among many brethren.” Romans 8:29.

ML-05/18/1969

"I Want to See Them Again!"

THE OLD man sat in an easy chair on the wide porch of his niece’s home enjoying the warmth of the early summer. It was one of a terrace of houses in a quiet little street not far from the center of the town.

Tripping gaily along the road came Linda Grant, and when she saw the old man she stopped. She thought that she knew everyone who lived in the terrace, but this elderly man was a stranger to her. Linda was a friendly soul, and she felt that she simply must speak to him.

“Good morning, Grampa, I have not seen you before.”

“My name is Jones, and I have come to live with my niece.”

“Did you want to come?” asked the child.

“No, I cannot say that I did, but I have been ill, and the doctor insisted on my coming to someone who could look after me.”

“I am sorry; are you going to live here always?”

“Yes, I think so.”

“Then we must be friends.”

Friends they certainly became, and often the child would carry a little stool, take up her position close to her elderly friend, and carry on an animated conversation.

One Saturday morning Linda appeared carrying her little stool. “Mr. Jones,” she said as she seated herself, “tomorrow is a special day at our mission, will you come with us?”

The old man’s face hardened. “No, I gave up all that sort of thing long ago.”

“But why?”

“I had a bitter experience. I lost my wife and child in six months, and I have never been to church since. It was hard to lose all I’d got.”

“Then you used to go?”

“Oh, yes.”

“Did they go with you?”

“Certainly they did; my wife was a lovely Christian, and my Mary was a sweet child.”

Linda thought for a moment, and then said with her childish frankness: “Mr. Jones, it’s not much good your giving up God, is it? Your wife and Mary are with Jesus, but you will go to hell.”

Mr. Jones took this downright statement very quietly, simply re-

plying: “I had not thought of it like that.”

“Well, you want to see them again, don’t you?”

“Yes, very badly.”

“Then why not come with us tomorrow, and make a fresh start?”

“I’ll think about it. I used to play a number of hymns on my concertina.”

“Have you still got it?”

“Yes, it’s inside.”

“Play a tune on it for me, please, Mr. Jones.”

“Come along, then; we’ll go and find it.”

The old man took the instrument out of its case, adjusted it, and soon the tender strains of “What a Friend we have in Jesus” filled the room.

Mr. Jones could not get rid of the child’s words. “They are with Jesus —you will go to hell.” They rang in his ears all the remainder of the day, and came to him when he awoke during the night.

“If Linda comes for me tomorrow, I will go with her,” he at length decided.

Linda did come for him, and he sat by her in the gospel meeting, her mother and father on her other side.

The hearty singing of the once familiar hymns brought tears to his eyes. His heart melted as the simple message of the love of God was told out by the speaker. His hardness and bitterness disappeared, and the joy of having a living Saviour filled his soul, and he found peace and forgiveness in Him who loved him and gave Himself for him.

“The goodness of God leadeth thee to repentance.” Romans 2:4.

ML-05/25/1969

A Tavern Keeper Saved

RICHARD Weaver, the converted coal miner, was holding open-air meetings in various towns. The district was stirred for miles around. From town to town they went, and the Lord worked wondrously. He

liked to sing a hymn at his services,

and his favorite at that time was:

My heart is fixed, eternal God,

Fixed on Thee!

And my immortal choice is made:

Christ for me!

The wife and daughter of a tarn keeper at Dunlop had come to the meetings. That night they were gloriously saved and went home new creatures in Christ Jesus. They began to sing, “Christ for me!” The message was carried home by the Spirit of God in such power to the heart of the tavern keeper that he fell on the floor as if dead. When he became conscious, the first words he was heard to utter were, “Christ for me!”

After that, he sent some young men to pull down the sign over his tavern, and he declared what the Lord had done for his soul.

There was another bar-keeper in the town and when he heard the news he swaggeringly remarked, “Yes, it is Christ for him, and all the customers for me.”

But the work of the Spirit broke out in force in the town. One night a band of young men and ladies passed his place singing a gospel hymn. The bar-keeper thought he would like to hear what they were singing, so he came and stood in his doorway. It was the hymn, “Christ for me!” The arrow of conviction reached his heart. The result was that he fell on his knees crying, “What must I do to be saved?” The Lord didn’t leave him in his distress, but had mercy on him, and pardoned the bar-keeper’s sins. He too had his sign taken down, and for a time the town of Dunlop was without a tavern. Said Mr. Weaver, “The gospel of regeneration is the best temperance lecture I know.”

“We are ambassadors for Christ...: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.” 2 Corinthians 5:20.

ML-05/25/1969

"Isn't He Wonderful?"

A Letter from a Teenager

“FOR MONTHS I have been going to write and tell you I was saved through the preaching at Belmont. From childhood I was brought up to attend Sunday school and church. I was a teenager when I first had any real conviction of sin. I wanted to be good and live as God desired me to, but how to attain to this I didn’t know. I had never heard of a Saviour who could both save and keep. “Be good” was about the only message I heard. I did many things in my efforts to be good but they all failed to give me peace and satisfaction. I saw other girls hang what I thought was a good time, and I joined in with them and became pleasure mad. I left the church and gave myself wholly to pleasure. Yet in the midst of it all I was so unhappy, miserable beyond expression, and I did not know to whom I could turn for help.

“Then I saw your tent at the end of the street, and I felt drawn to enter. The people seemed so happy and I could see you really meant what you were preaching about. I came again the following Sunday. Your text was Matthew 23:37: “O Jerusalem, Jerusalem, thou that killest the prophets, and stonest them which are sent unto thee, how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chickens under her wings, and ye would not!” You showed how God loved us and Jesus died for us, and that He was able and willing to save and protect us. Aer your address the hymn was sung: “In Tenderness He Sought Me.” I wept and

I wondered what He saw in me,

To suffer such deep agony.

Praise God, I was able to accept the Lord Jesus as my own personal Saviour. For nearly four years I have been so happy in His love and my greatest joy is to talk to others about Him. Isn’t He wonderful? ‘His name shall be called Wonderful,’ and try His works are wonderful! Oh that others might know this from personal experience as I do!”

So while the hours are passing,

All now is perfect rest;

I’m waiting for the morning,

The brightest and the best,

When He will call us to His side,

To be with Him, His spotless bride.

Oh the love that sought me!

Oh the blood that bought me!

Oh the grace that brought me to the fold,

Wondrous grace that brought me to the fold!

All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all.

Isaiah 53:6

ML-05/25/1969

The Story of Moses, the Man of God

Exodus 13:14-16

THE ISRAELITES were instructed to explain the meaning of redemption to their children. “And it shall be when thy son asketh thee in time to come, saying, What is this? that thou shalt say unto him: By strength of hand the LORD brought us out from Egypt, from the house of bondage: and it came to pass, when Pharaoh would hardly let us go, that the LORD slew all the firstborn in the land of Egypt, both the firstborn of man, and the firstborn of beast; therefore I sacrifice to the LORD all that openeth the matrix, being males; but all the firstborn of my children I redeem.”

We can see that the Israelite pant was responsible before the Lord to place his child on the ground of redemption and to sanctify him, or, set him apart, unto the Lord as well. And this is an important lesson for Christian parents now. God in wonderful grace saves many a soul out of the darkness of this world, but there is a special blessing for Christian parents who bring their children, while they are young, to the throne of grace, and teach them of the Saviour who as God’s Lamb has died to redeem them. O that in Christian homes today parents were more faithful and diligent in seeking to bring up their children “in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.” Ephesians 6:4.

The setting apart of every beast unto the Lord would speak of the believer’s giving the Lord the first place in all the affairs of life. Giving Him the first place and the first fruits of all that He has blessed us with, will bring true happiness in our Christian life. If done in the spirit of grace and love to Him, it will not be burdensome but rather a joy. “The Lord shall open unto thee His good treasure,” (Deut. 28:12), was of old God’s promised reward for faithfulness to Himself, and it is the same for us today.

Redemption and the setting apart of the firstborn was to be a constant observance to the children of Israel. “And it shall be for a token upon thine hand, and for frontlets between thine eyes.” verse 16. We as God’s redeemed people ought ever to remember His goodness to us, and at the same time we should have recalled to our minds our responsibilities now to Him who has redeemed us at such a cost.

“For by strength of hand the Lord brought us forth out of Egypt.” verse 16. He would have His people remember too that they could not have done this by their own strength, but that it was only by His own mighty power that they were brought forth.

Rise, my soul, thy God directs thee,

Stranger hands no more impede;

Pass thou on, His hand protects thee,

Strength that has the captive freed.

Light divine surrounds thy going,

God Himself shall mark thy way;

Secret blessings richly flowing,

Lead to everlasting day.

Memory Verse “BUT THIS MAN, AFTER HE HAD OERED ONE SACRIFICE FOR SINS, Forever SAT DOWN ON THE RIGHT OF GOD.” Hebrews 10:12.

ML-05/25/1969

A Shepherd's Story

A CHRISTIAN man who used to keep sheep told the story of his conversion in the following words: “Many years have passed, though it seems like yesterday, since my boss gave permission for a gospel tent to be pitched on his property. I thought we were going to have a circus in the village, but when I went down to have a look around that night I saw in big letters, EVANGELISTIC MEETINGS, and a notice that Mr. Thomas would preach the gospel in the tent and that all were invited.

“It was not in my line. I swore quite a bit and was more at home in the tavern than in a chapel. This was a new idea to preach in a tent. However, my curiosity was aroused, and on Sunday night I got my sheep down as near to the tent as I could, so nobody would think I was listening. I lay on the grass near the tent and heard every word. It seemed as if somebody had told the preacher all about me, and he was telling the people all about me without mentioning my name.

“The next day I met the preacher and asked who told him about me. But he assured me no one had told him anything; it was God who knew about me. I went to the meetings after that and I had a terrible time on account of my sins for over a week. Then one day when down in a ditch, nearly up to my knees in mud, God showed me that while we were yet sinners Christ died for me. I threw myself on the bank and asked God to save me, and He did right then and there. O such peace filled my heart and He gave me the assurance of salvation.”

One who knew the shepherd for thirty years testified that he became a man of God. Prayer and the Word were his constant delight. Seldom was he absent from the prayer meeting and Bible readings, and he was listened to with profit and pleasure. He was much sought after by the sick and aged to whom he ministered with love and tenderness. He was over 80 when translated to the Saviour’s presence. It was said of him: “he walked with God and he was not for God took him.”

ML-06/01/1969

Skippy

I WONDER if Noah ever realized the importance of all the animals in the ark. I’m sure he was thankful to God for preserving his family from the flood, I remember a little boy who had a dog named Skippy. Skippy was used in the saving of his master’s life. How he loved that little boy! They were together from morning to night. If the little boy got tired, Skippy would lie down and let his master use him as a pillow. They had so much fun together on the farm!

One day the boy’s mother heard Skippy barking and carrying on so. He was running up and down the path to the spring, barking as loud as he could. Mother stepped outside to see what all the commotion was about. She heard a muffled yell and ran as quickly as she could to the spring. There she saw her little boy was stuck with his head in the water. She grabbed his little legs and pulled him out. He was all right.

Skippy was the hero that day and more so now because his little master is grown up and now trusts in the Lord Jesus Christ as his Saviour. God saw how Skippy would be needed to save this little boy from drowning, but above this He saw the need of that boy’s soul. He sent His Son to die that his sins might be forgiven and that he might live forever with Him in heaven. Will you meet Skippy’s master in heaven?

“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.

“THOU SHALT CALL HIS NAME JESUS: FOR HE SHALL SAVE HIS PEOPLE FROM THEIR SINS.” Matthew 1:21.

ML-06/01/1969

Happy Harry and His Cat

HENRY BELL was best known as “Happy Harry,” because he seemed always happy, and no one ever felt dull in his company. Its joyous disposition made him a great favorite in the village. Jim, his cat, was almost as well known as his master. Listen to the story of how he became so happy: He heard a faithful preacher tell of the love of Jesus; and that He left His bright Home above to die on Calvary’s cross to save sinners. Harry listened attentively, and did accept Jesus as his loving Saviour.

Ever since that night Henry was a true Christian, and never ashamed to confess he belonged to Jesus. If you feel you should do the same, delay no longer. Settle the matter now, No one ever regretted that wise step, “Unto you therefore which believe He is precious.” 1 Peter 2:7.

ML-06/01/1969

An Indian's Prayer

A LITTLE Indian girl was dying, One afternoon she begged her father to take her to the brook once more. He did so and sat down in the shade, where the little girl could see the water. Turning away her wasted face, she said earnestly, “Pray, Father.”

“Oh! I can’t, my darling,” he said hastily.

“Father,” she said, “I am going to heaven soon; and I want to tell Jesus that my father prays.”

The strong man’s head was bowed, and there went up such a prayer of repentance, and confession as must have thrilled with joy the courts of heaven.

“There is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth.” Luke 15:10.

CHILDHOOD’S years are passing o’er us,

Youthful days will soon be gone;

Cares and sorrows lie before us,

Hidden dangers, snares unknown.

O may He, who, meek and lowly,

Trod Himself this vale of woe,

Make us His, and make us holy,

Guard and guide us where we go.

Soon we part—it may be never,

Never here to meet again;

Oh, to meet in heaven forever,

And the crown of life to gain.

SEEK the Lord while He may be found.

EVERY one that seeketh findeth.

ML-06/01/1969

The Young People's Class: Joshua

1. What was Joshua told to do day and night that his way might be prosperous? Josh.

2. As an example to Christians, what was Timothy told to do that his profiting might appear to all? 1 Timothy 4.

3. What does the Psalmist say of the man who meditates in the law of the Lord day and night? Psalms 1.

4. Who would be with Joshua wherever he might go? Josh.

5. Who dwells in the Christian’s heart at all times? Ephesians 3.

6. Within how many days would the Israelites go in to possess the land? Josh.

7. In how short a time will the Christian be changed and enter into the glory with Christ? 1 Corinthians 15.

ML-06/01/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 13:17, 18

“AND IT came to pass, when Pharaoh had let the people go, that God led them not through the way of the land of the Philistines, although that was near; for God said, Lest peradventure the people repent when they see war, and they return to Egypt: but God led the people about, through the way of the wilderness of the Red Sea: and the children of Israel went up harnessed out of the land of Egypt.”

God took them out “by strength of hand"; none could stand in the way of their departure. He had said that when He took His people out of Egypt not even a dog would move his tongue against them. What a wonderful thing to think of thousands upon thousands of people, bides all their cattle, marching out of Egypt in haste in the dead of night, as they did, and not one dog barked! Surely God controls everything, and no man or beast can harm us unless He allows it for our good and blessing.

Why should I ever careful be,

Since such a God is mine?

He watches o’er me night and day,

And tells me, “Thou art Mine.”

Their withdrawal from Egypt complete, God would not leave them to take their own way, but He Himself would guide them all the way to their new promised home. The pillar of cloud by day and of fire by night would go before them. Faith coupled with obedience brought them through that dark night of judgment in Egypt, and faith would hereafter prove that although His way might seem long, it would be the only course of safety. He had marked out a route for them to travel on through the wilderness. It was not the nearest route, but in love He directed them through a course that would take them away from immediate conflict with other enemies and spare them from many discouragements along the way. And we need guidance too. We cannot choose our own path through this tangled, evil world, so God has given guidance for each step in His own precious Word.

When one is brought to Christ how well it is for him to learn to simply trust the Lord for guidance in His pathway. “Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths.” Proverbs 3:5,6. His way may at times seem long, but it will always prove to be the safest and best, and one in which needed lessons will be learned. It will be too His means of drawing one near to Himself so that He can manifest His love to us. “I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way in which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with Mine eye.” Psalms 32:8.

As Moses looked upon this vast company of people (perhaps a million or more), besides all their cattle and possessions, he might have been dismayed at the thought of having to direct and keep them did he not remember the Lord’s prose: “I am come down to deliver them... and to bring them up out of that land unto a good land.” (ch. 3:8). Yet his heart would find encouragement in knowing that God Himself would be their true Leader and Preserver.

ML-06/01/1969

The Organ Player

ONE DAY I was alone and sad; everything seemed dark and desolate to me, my soul was cast down, and I had forgotten the exhortation, “Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and He shall sustain thee.” Psa. 55:22. Suddenly, in the midst of the deep silence and loneliness of a sad evening, the sound of the sweetest music was heard. It was a boy playing an organ. What an intelligent face he had and the great black eyes which he turned on me spoke of want and suffering. “He is hungry,” I said to myself. I gave him some bread and meat on a plate, and added a tract, without having the courage to speak to him. However, this boy interested me deeply, and while watching him eat from my window I asked God over and over again to use this tract to the salvation of his soul. After he had eaten, he read the title, “How to Become a Christian,” and then put the tract carefully into his pocket.

Several years passed away, and war broke out, bringing its terrible story of suffering and distress, and so I forgot my young organ player. I visited one day a military hospital, where the wounded and the sick were cared for. The doctor was going his round; he was standing, silent and sad, by the bed of a young soldier, holding his wrist and feeling his pulse, which was beating more and more feebly. I bent down to look at him. His eyes were closed, and the stamp of death was printed on his face. At this moment the Chaplain came in; he bent over the dying soldier and seemed anxious to know if he were still breathing. Suddenly the young fellow opened his eyes and asked, “Am I going to die?” The Chaplain, who was saddened, did not answer.

“Oh, don’t be afraid to tell me! I am ready! God be praised!”

“I cannot say, my friend,” replied the Chaplain, “but do you know the Saviour of sinners? Do you love the Lord Jesus Christ?”

“Yes, yes, I have just seen Him. I am not wandering. I must tell you before I go.”

“Is your mother still living? Can I do anything for you?”

“Yes, sir, but she is not here. I shall be where she is soon. She is in heaven.” As he said those words, his eyes, which were already becoming dim, took on an expression of intense happiness. “But,” he added, “I have a young sister, poor girl; she will be very lonely now, but I have commended her to the Lord, and surely He will not forget her. I should like to be able to send her some little thing.” And so saying, he made a supreme effort to take from under his pillow his wallet, in which there was some money, then his Bible, a photograph, and a tract, the cover of which was dyed with his blood. “This little tract brought me salvation and to my dear mother as well. A long time ago I was a poor organ-player trying to support my mother and my little sister. We were very poor, when a kind lady gave me this tract. Oh! how happy my mother was when I read it to her! Up till then, no one had ever given us anything to show us the way to heaven. No one had ever spoken to us of this precious Saviour who died on the Cross to ransom us. Since then, we have prayed for this kind lady every day. How much I should like to see her again! Her little book was like the cup of cold water to my dying mother.”

I came nearer to his bed to hear all he was saying, for I had recognized in him the little organ-player who had formerly encouraged my downcast soul. A little while after he said in a low voice: “What a lovely dream it was! I had reached the gates of heaven, and I entered. Everything was so beautiful, so glorious, but I wanted to see my Saviour, and then my mother. She was there, close to Him. Then I thought of the kind lady with the little book. I wanted to see her, but she had not come there yet. A little while after the gates opened and she came in. I was longing to tell her what her little book had brought to us, and the Saviour who knew the desire of my heart said to me ‘Go.’ So I went, but I woke up. It was only a dream.”

I could no longer control myself, and sobbed aloud, which attracted the attention of the dying soldier. He recognized me. Marvelously surprised to see me, yet incapable of making any movement, he said slowly, looking up to heaven, “I thank Thee, Lord, that Thou hast answered my prayer. I know that Thou answerest the prayer of those that trust in Thee.”

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 and 28.

ML-06/08/1969

The Bees and Their Hive

YONDER IN THE corner of the garden is a beehive, and the bees are humming all around it in the spring sunshine. The Bible has much to tell us about bees and their honey.

BEES are of two kinds—wild and tame—wasps to sting and working bees to gather honey. The one kind brings poison with their sting, the other food and sweetness by their labor. There are two great powers at work among men, “the power of San” (Acts 26:18), and “the power of Christ” (2 Cor. 12:9). From the one comes sin and death, from the latter, life and glory.

A RIDDLE ABOUT BEES.

(Judg. 14:8,14). A swarm of bees in a dead lion’s carcass by the way, provided Samson with his riddle, “Out of the eater came forth meat, and out of the strong came forth sweetness.” Its gospel answer is, that from the victory of the Lord Jesus over the roaring lion, the devil (1 Peter 5:8; Heb. 2:14), has come life and sweetness for all who trust in Him.

HONEY AND THE HONEOMB. (Psa. 19:10). Sweeter than “honey and the honeycomb” is the Word of God to all who read and receive it in faith. A “land flowing with milk and honey,” tells how rich Canaan was, in providing milk for babes, sweetness and strength to all. So the Word of God when fed on, makes the babes in Christ to grow (1 Peter 2:2), and gives them strength (1 John 2:14).

A HIVE AND ITS LESSONS. A beehive is a little kingdom of order and labor. It has its queen bee to rule, its workers to gather in the supplies. In the kingdom of “God’s dear Son” (Col. 1:13), this is so also. Each has a place (1 Cor. 12:18,28), and all have their work to do (Mark 13:34).

ML-06/08/1969

"No Friends"

A PREACHER was visiting in a crowded ward in a city hospital. A busy nurse asked, “Will you speak to that young fellow over by the door?”

“With pleasure, nurse,” he replied, “but he is sleeping.”

“No,” she said, “he is dying.”

The evangelist read the name of the card at the head of the bed—“Robert Browing, Age 17, No Friends.” “What does this mean, nurse, ‘No Friends'?” he asked.

“Just what it says, sir. If he dies tonight,” she answered, “we do not know anyone who knows him.”

Bending over the boy, the preacher quietly said: “How sweet the name of Jesus sounds in a believer’s ear.” In a moment the closed eyes opened slowly and a joyous whisper was heard, “Yes, Jesus is my Saviour, my Friend.”

The card read “No Friends,” but this boy had the greatest of friends.

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

My Friend is Jesus Christ, the Son of God. He is well described as the “Friend that sticketh closer than a brother.” Indeed, He is this and much more.

“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 1:12.

ML-06/08/1969

The Story of Moses, the Man of God

Exodus 13:19-22

JOSEPH’S DESIRE that his rains be carried back to Canaan had never been forgotten. Carefully preserved, they accompanied the departing company, just as Joseph had expressed: “And Moses took the bones of Joseph with him: for he had straitly sworn the children of Israel, saying, God will surely visit you; and ye shall carry up my bones away hence with you.” verse 19.

“And they took their journey from Succoth, and encamped in Etham, in the edge of the wilderness.” The strip of land over which the journey commenced crossed over what is now the Suez Canal and, at the northern end of the Red Sea, led southward to the edge of the great wilderness —a dread journey to contemplate under normal conditions. Not only was it strange to them, full of dangers and rough ways, but it was barren and lacking in the food and pasturage so great a company would require. Watering spots, at best, were undependable. This was a land for the owl and the bittern, the serpent and the scorpion, not at all inviting for human habitation. Here lay a hostile area stretching beyond the horizon, scorched by the sun and buffeted by howling winds, while darkness concealed the fiercer terrors of the night-time.

From such a land the people would shrink in dismay, were it not for their anxiety to escape the cruelty of Egypt and for assurances of Jehovah’s safe-keeping. One by one He would take care of all these circumstances, all the while faith and obedience to His voice being put to the test for their soul’s good. Every thought of that dreary land is but a reminder of the very world in which God’s people are called to walk today. Testings, hardships and threats abound on every hand. This world is to the believer a hostile land, where dependence on God’s care and guidance is needed lest he fall by the wayside. May we remember that we as Christians are certain of reaching our heavenly home because God sees us as redeemed with the precious blood of Christ. But faith is put to the test in the wilderness and, where difficulties are committed to Him who is our true guide, the way will never seem unbearable, even though trials will be encountered.

“And the LORD went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night: He took not away the pillar of cloud by day, nor the pillar of fire by night.” 10:21-22. Jehovah not only selected a path for His people, but came down to see them through it, as well. He Himself went before them in that welcome cloud, resting over them through daylight hours as a shelter from the fierceness of the sun. When the hazards of darkness would have appalled them, then it was that He appeared in the pillar of fire, dispersing the darkness and giving their enemies no opportunity to approach unawares. The cloud and the pillar, symbols of His presence, rained with them for the entire journey.

Memory Verse “THESE THINGS HAVE I WRITTEN UO YOU THAT BELIEVE ON THE NAME OF THE SON OF GOD; THAT YE MAY KNOW THAT YE HAVE ETERNAL LIFE.”

1 John 5:13.

ML-06/08/1969

Names of Those Answering the Bible Questions for Term Ending April 1969

Dear young friends: We think you will be interested in these extracts from a letter written from Ghana by one of our brethren who recently spent some weeks in that land.

“One of my correspondents came to our hotel late yesterday, having traveled by train about 125 miles. When we met each other for the first time outside the hotel, he just hugged me. He was so happy... He is a dear young Christian, only saved 1 ½ years, and it is amazing how much he knows of the Bible. He knows where most every passage is found, and chapter and verse. Most of us in a lifetime do not gain as much knowledge as this young man in so short a time.... He is very open to learn the truth. We talked till 10 P.M., and again this morning he returned at 7:30 and we talked over the Word until 1 P.M., when he left to take the train home. It is rare to find as brilliant a young man as this. He is a very dear and affectionate lad and really won our hearts.”

How refreshing to see that first love for Christ in the heart of this dear young fellow, and his appetite for the Word of God. May the Lord keep him and bless him, and make him a blessing to others in his homeland.

“The schools closed yesterday for six weeks, so our gospel work in the schools is over. That has been our happiest work here in Ghana. Monday we spoke to around 400, and Tuesday we went to two schools. It made us happy to hear the boys in the Junior High School help us quote the gospel verses when we were talking to them. It showed that the teachers were having them memorize the Word. Last Lord’s day evening we had the joy of having a 16-year old girl, Grace B— —, come up to the front of the schoolroom and confess the Lord as her Saviour after the gospel meeting.... Another girl at one of the schools also confessed the Lord.”

O dear friends, may this blessed work of the Spirit of God in others, especially those less privileged than we, stir our hearts and stimulate us to more diligence and faithfulness in reading God’s precious Word, and to grow in grace and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. The Word of God tells us all about Jesus, and is the food of the new nature in the believer. From cover to cover Christ is set forth and shines on every page. The Lord tells us in John 6:35: “I am the bread of life: he that cometh to Me shall never hunger and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst.”

How thankful we are for all the dear ones that have been over their Bibles searching for the Answers, and we pray that the Lord will abundantly bless many hearts.

We miss some who have not been answering and hope they are not losing interest in the Word. We trust they are enjoying deeper truths and learning more of the Lord in their private reading. We hope that some who dropped behind last term will pick up and be among the first next year.

“Life at best is very brief,

Like the falling of a leaf,

Like the binding of a sheaf...”

The Lord Jesus is coming!

“Soon we’ll hear His voice afar,

On the dark horizon rising,

As the bright and Morning Star.”

How little time there is left to live and shine for Him! May we, dear friends, be found “redeeming the time,” buying up the golden opportunities to learn more of Him, before we pass into His presence and be forever with Him there.

ML-06/08/1969

A Fire Engine Story

CHARLES WAS a little boy who lived near the fire station. He liked to go to fires and watch. When the fire alarm sounded he would race for the station and the firemen would lift him up, putting him between them on the seat of the great engine, and off they would go down the street to the fire!

One day his mother said to him: “Charles, I’m going downtown. Now, don’t you go to any fires while I’m gone. I want you to stay right here.” Charles promised to obey and his mother went downtown. While she was gone the fire alarm rang, and forgetting his promise to his mother, Charles ran to the fire station. Soon the firemen and he were roaring down the street to the clanging of the bells, while people and cars and dogs and cats all rushed to get out of the way.

It so happened that Charles’ mother was driving up the street and saw him, so she followed the engine until she came to the fire. She ordered Charles to come down off the engine and right there in the presence of all he got a good spanking for his disobedience.

The time came when Charles trusted the Lord as his Saviour. God used him and through his preaching many were won for Christ; but he never forgot that spanking and the lesson of obedience learned that day.

There is much in Scripture about obedience; it is the way to happiness and peace, dear young friends. Trust the Lord as your Saviour, seek to walk in obedience to His Word, and you will be a happy Christian.

When we walk with the Lord, in the light of His Word,

What a glory He sheds on our way!

While we do His sweet will, how our hearts He can fill

With His love, as we trust and obey.

But we never can prove the delights of His love

When in paths of self-pleasing we stray,

For the favor He shows, and the joy He bestows,

Are for those who will trust and obey.

Trust and obey, for there’s no other way

To be happy in Jesus, but to trust and obey.

ML-06/15/1969

He Is Calling Thee

A LITTLE girl was singing— “Lo, a loving Friend is waiting, He is calling thee.”

When she came to the verse— “Soon that voice will cease its calling: Wilt thou still delay?” she thought, “What a dreadful thing it would be if that voice should cease to call me before I came to Him"; and as she said, in speaking of it afterward, “So I came to Him just then.”

Memory Verse “SEEK YE THE LORD WHILE HE MAY BE FOUND, CALL YE UPON HIM WHILE HE IS NEAR.” Ise. 55:6.

ML-06/15/1969

It Makes a Difference

MARY, who was thirteen years old, was converted at Sunday School, and sought to please the One who had saved her. One day shortly after this her teacher called to see Mary’s parents.

“Well,” said Mary’s mother, who was not a Christian, “I don’t know what has happened to Mary, but I must say there is a very great change in her. Whatever I tell her to do she does at once, without a word. I wish you could make all my children so.”

Another girl, who was the maid in a certain home, was converted and rejoiced greatly in her newfound Saviour.

“What difference does it make in your life now that you are saved?” she was asked.

“Oh, I sweep under the mat now,” she replied.

Yes, children, knowing Jesus as our Saviour should make a great difference in our walk and ways; for now we have One to please whose eyes are always upon us and who has done so much for us and loves us so dearly, that to do all things to please Him should be our greatest joy.

“ALL WE LIKE SHEEP HAVE GONE ASTRAY: Isa. 53:6.

LIKE a little wandering lamb,

Lost upon the hills I am;

Like a shepherd Jesus stands,

Holding out His blessed hands.

“Come,” He says, “Come back to Me;

Little lamb I died for thee;

I will take thee to My home,

Little lamb, I pray thee, come.

ML-06/15/1969

A Baked Bible

SEVERAL HUNDRED years ago in Bohemia a law was passed by the Emperor of Austria, to which the country of Bohemia then bonged, forbidding the people either to own or read the Bible. Nevertheless, many of the people did have Bibles and refused to give them up. So soldiers were sent out to search the houses and seize any Bibles which might be found. When the people heard that the soldiers were coming to their locality, they made haste to hide their Bibles in some secret place. So, although the soldiers searched the houses, thoroughly and roughly, yet many Bibles were not found.

One day the report came to a house that the soldiers were coming. There was only a young girl there, and she was kneading dough for bread. On hearing the breathless whisper of the sentinel, the quick-witted girl spread out her dough, placed the Bible in the center and, quickly doubling it over, put it into a big pan and slipped it into the oven.

When the soldiers arrived a few minutes later the girl met them at the door, and in answer to their demand for the Bible, calmly told them to search and see if there was one in the house. They looked into every corner of the cottage, but found no Bible. If they opened the stove door they saw only a large loaf of bread baking.

Years afterward the grandson of the heroine of this story immigrated to America and settled in Ohio. He brought with him the Bible which his grandmother had saved from the soldiers. It had been carefully kept as a relic of days when there was not freedom to worship the Lord together as we now enjoy in this land.

What a wonderful privilege it is to have this blessed Book shed its light in this dark world, for truly “The entrance of Thy words giveth light.” Psalms 119:130. The darkness of heathen lands and the increase of evil in our own country are a witness to the awful result of not having the Word of God or rejecting it.

The Bible is God’s letter to all the human race, telling of His love for lost sinners as shown in the gift of His Son, “that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16. “Here the way of salvation is given, heaven is revealed, hell is described. The cross is its center, eternal life its gift, and God’s glory its end.” Reader, “Read it to be godly, use it to be fruitful, believe it to be faithful, and trust it to have peace.

ML-06/15/1969

The Story of Moses, the Man of God

Exodus 14:1,2

“AND THE LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto the children of Israel, that they turn and encamp before Pihahiroth, between Migdol and the sea, over against Baalzephon: before it shall ye encamp by the sea.”

A long journey stretched before Israel. Delivered from the oppressor and claimed by God as His “peculiar treasure,” they faced a vast wilderness, at the end of which the prosed land awaited them. Many experiences awaited them also along the way, many testings of faith, many reminders of their own failures and weaknesses, and many evidences too of Jehovah’s patience with them and His power for them. In this, Israel is a type of God’s people today. All who have been redeemed “with the precious blood of Christ” are also on their way to a more wonderful destination, a heavenly one, “a city whose builder and maker is God.” But this pathway also often appears long, full of trials and hazards and faith is often sorely tried. If he dwells on things around him and thinks of his puny strength, his confidence is shaken and he becomes the victim of unhappy doubts and fears.

Satan, the enemy of God’s people, is the source of such unhappiness. Well aware that he has lost possession of those who were once his servants, he endeavors to hinder their progress, to discourage them in the Christian pathway, and ensnare them again with the old lusts and worldly appetites from which they have been delivered. The evil one can never again have dominion over a redeemed soul, but if the Christian is not watchful and walking close to his Saviour, Satan may succeed in marring his testimony, as well the enjoyment of his Saviour and the prospect before him at the end of the journey.

But God, in His Word, prepare His people for these very attacks from the enemy, so that not one His children need be taken by surprise nor caught unprepared when Satan approaches. “Be sober, be vigilant"; He tells us, “because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.” Again, “Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: but rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when His glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.” 1 Peter 5:8; 4: 12,13, God provides too for the believer’s encouragement when confronted with trials. How precious these promises: “The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptation [or trial]"; and again: “God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted [tested] above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way of escape, that ye may be able to bear it.” 2 Peter 2:9; 1 Corinthians 10:13.

The first thing which the Lord did was to shut up His people, as far as man was concerned, in a hopeless position. Encamped by the sea, surrounded by the wilderness, He placed them so that if Pharaoh followed after them, just as God knew that he would, that there would be no human way of escape. Thus was brought about Pharaoh’s complete destruction while Israel was made to feel entirely dependent on the Lord. The Egyptians were to know that Jehovah was the Lord and the Israelites were to confess that He was their salvation.

ML-06/15/1969

Cleopatra's Needle

ON THE banks of the Thames in London stands a stone column known as Cleopatra’s Needle.

It is a huge monument of granite, carved 3400 years ago, from the red granite quarries of Syene. It has passed through adventurous days and seen many strange things. It stood erect in Egypt when the children of Israel lived in that land, and Moses must often have gazed up at this pillar. A thousand years or so later it was moved to Alexandria at the request of Queen Cleopatra, whose name it now bears. Here it survived 2000 years and saw the fall of four great empires.

In the year 1878 it was erected in London and what a tremendous task it must have been to transport this huge stone, first across the desert, and then across the sea and the ocean. In the Bay of Biscay the ship, towing the raft which supported this giant needle of rock, got into difficulties. A great storm arose, and the sailors decided to cut away the ropes between their ship and the raft, and so they saved their lives. When the gale subsided the raft and the “needle” were rescued by a Spanish ship.

Eventually it arrived in England, and was placed in the spot where it now stands. Beneath the famous stone, and out of sight to passers-by, is a hollow space, and in it have been placed quite a variety of things in sealed jars—a man’s suit, a lady’s dress, newspapers, coins, and other things. But last of all, before the hollow was sealed up, they put in the most wonderful thing of all—a copy of the Bible in four languages, and one verse from the Scriptures translated into 215 different languages. That verse is John 3:16: “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.”

One day Cleopatra’s Needle will pass away, for the Lord has declared that “heaven and earth shall pass away"; but He also has said, “My words shall not pass away.” (Luke 21:33). “The word of the Lord endureth forever.” 1 Peter 1:25. Again, “he that doeth the will of God abideth forever.” 1 John 2:17.

The love of God is proclaimed in that wonderful verse, John 3:16, and those who receive that message by faith into their hearts now will abide and enjoy that love of God forever in new creation glory. But the message of John 3:16 will not always go forth in this world; because God “hath appointed a day, in the which He will judge the world in righteousness” by Jesus Christ. (Acts 17:31). Do not be too late, dear reader, to receive God’s gift of love. Take Christ now as your Saviour and Lord, while it is yet the day of grace.

ML-06/22/1969

The Ostrich

IT MUST have been a strange sight to people in those days when they saw all the birds and animals going into the ark.

The ostrich is a strange bird that grows to a height of eight feet sometimes, but he cannot fly. It has often been said of the ostrich that sometimes he hides his head in the sand, thinking he cannot be seen by his enemies, and when he is seen, he runs away very fast—so fast, that he can even outrun a man on horseback. How much like the ostrich are boys and girls—and older ones too. Many times we try to hide ourselves from God, as Adam and Eve did in the Garden of Eden. But God who is both light and love sees us. He wants us to know that though we are sinners, He has found a way to put away our sins so that we might never need to run away from Him again.

God wants us to come to Him, not in our own self-righteousness, but just as we are as sinners, and accept the salvation that He offers through His own dear Son, the Lord Jesus Christ. Alone, on that cross in those hours of darkness, God put the sins of all who trust in Jesus upon His Son, and He answered to God for them all. He paid the whole debt. Now by faith we can come into God’s very presence, and need not be afraid anymore, if Jesus is our Saviour.

“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus.” Romans 8:1.

ML-06/22/1969

"Pray Without Ceasing"

IN 1 Thessalonians 5:17 it says, “Pray without ceasing.” Talk to Jesus about everything. Nothing is too small for Him to care about.

I knew a little girl who lived in a very fine home, and I often saw her galloping about the grounds on her own white pony while I was there. But she had a very bad memory, and often got into trouble with the teacher because she could not say her lessons.

However, when she was twelve there came a great change, and she got on splendidly at school. One day her father asked how it was? So she said, “Well, father, I asked Jesus to help me, and He did. Then I thanked Him, and begged Him to help me again, and He did so. Since I found that He helped me with my lessons, I go and ask Him about everything.”

“Pray without ceasing. In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:17,18.

ML-06/22/1969

Singing

SOME African soldiers from Nigeria were sent to the Far East on duty—very far from their dear native land. They had to put up with very hard conditions but were so patient and cheerful that some of the folk among whom they lived asked, “Why are you so happy when you are so far from home?”

One man answered for the rest. “Here,” he said, touching his tunic pocket, “we have a wonderful Book —it is God’s Book. We read it tether every night. It speaks to us in our own language. It is music to our own hearts. It tells of the Lord Jesus who died because of our sins so that we are forgiven. Now we bong to Him and He cares for us always.” And as if he could say more by singing he, joined by his companions, sang this lovely song:

“O happy day! that fixed my choice

On Thee, my Saviour and my God!

Well may this glowing heart rejoice,

And tell its raptures all abroad.

Happy day! happy day!

When Jesus washed my sins away!

He taught me how to watch and pray,

And live rejoicing every day.

Happy day! happy day!

When Jesus washed my sins away.”

Memory Verse “THROUGH HIS NAME WHOSOEVER BIEVETH IN HIM SHALL RECEIVE REMIION OF SINS.” Acts 10:43.

Wide, wide as the ocean,

High as the heavens above;

Deep, deep as the deepest sea,

Is my Saviour’s love.

I, though so unworthy,

Still am a child of His care,

For His Word teaches me

That His love reaches me,

Everywhere.

By grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Ephesians 2:8.

“For as the heaven is high above the earth, so great is His mercy toward them that fear Him.” Psalms 103:11

ML-06/22/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 14:3-12

THE NAME of the place where Israel first encamped by the Red Sea has beautiful significance. It is named “Pi-hahiroth,” and means “The opening, or gate, of liberty.” It was such to them. This chapter then has a remarkable position in the history of the people of Israel and of their typical redemption. It lies between the shedding of the blood of the passover lamb in Egypt, in chapter 12, and the song of redemption in chapters 15. We find the people here in great distress of soul; “sore afraid,” and crying out unto the Lord, who makes a way of escape for them from the bondage of Pharaoh and Egypt, into the liberty of complete salvation from every foe. They sing the song of victory in triumph with their feet on redemption ground.

God was aware of Pharaoh’s persistent intention to pursue after the Israelites, and so He informed His people, as they drew away from Egypt, just what was to happen in this first trial of faith. “And the Lord spake unto Moses, saying... Pharaoh will say of the children of Israel, They are entangled in the land, the wilderness hath shut them in, and I will harden Pharaoh’s heart, that he shall follow after them; and I will be honored upon Pharaoh and upon all his hosts; that the Egyptians may know that I am the LORD.”

There is a vast difference between trials and testings by the way and falling into sinful temptations and disobedience. God often brings rich blessings to His people through trials, but He must in faithfulness discipline every child of His who falls into evil ways. “Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God.... But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.” James 1:13,14. “God dealeth with you as with sons; for what son is he whom the father chasteneth not?... But He for our profit, that we might be partakers of His holiness.” Hebrews 12:7,10.

Israel were to learn early in their wilderness journey that God was indeed with them, and in order that His purposes might be fully and gloriously displayed God directed Moses to have the people in the precise spot He named. There, as Pharaoh accurately observed, they were “entangled in the land,” with the sea before them, the mountains beside them, and the army of Egypt coming up behind them. Their hearts failed them and they cried to Moses, “Because there were no graves in Egypt, hast thou taken us away to die in the wilderness? Wherefore hast thou dealt thus with us, to carry us forth out of Egypt?... for it had been better for us to serve the Egyptians, than that we should die in the wilderness.” vv. 11,12.

Alas, how quickly has many a child of God fallen into despair at the first sight of some circumstance that seems to intrude into his life. Had the Israelites so quickly forgotten the display of God’s might which had just delivered them from Egypt? It may be asked, “Why did God allow them to get into this great extremity? Why bring them into a place of such dreadful fears and terrors? Why is a soul often brought into this terrible extremity?” Because it was with them as it is with us a needed lesson. On the one side, to search our hearts out to the depths and make us learn ourselves, and the utter helplessness of man to deliver himself; the other, to learn God and His resources and delivering grace. God was not going to leave them, nor allow the enemy to touch them.

ML-06/22/1969

"They Shall Never Perish"

An American, who was very fond of hunting, lived in a wooded part of the country where there was plenty of deer and other wild life. One morning, as he was walking across his field, he heard the baying of hounds in the distance. As the dogs approached, he looked through a crack in a picket fence, and there he saw a poor little fawn, wearied from the chase, its tongue hanging out, and its sides lathered with foam. The little thing had just strength enough to clear the fence, and stood there for a moment with its great liquid eyes gazing about in a most frightened manner.

Then it saw a hound leap over the fence not far away, and its first impulse was to take flight again. But instead of running away, it came and fell down in a heap at the man’s feet.

In telling the story, our friend said: “I couldn’t stand there and see that poor little thing torn to pieces by the dogs—no, not after it had appealed to me for protection. As the hounds gathered round I defend the little creature. I stood there and fought the dogs for half an hour. I just felt that all the dogs in the county could not capture that little fawn after its weakness had appealed to my strength.”

Poor sinners now, who cast themselves upon the mercies of the Lord, find in Him a Saviour and a Defender. Had the little deer trusted its own strength in flight, the dogs would soon have overtaken it and it would have perished. Those who try to outrun sin, Satan, and the judgment of God, will find to their own everlasting sorrow that they have perished.

Dear young friends, and older ones too, if you are unsaved, judgment is on your track. “Flee from the wrath to come,"—flee to the Lord Jesus, the only refuge of the soul. You will find in Him a Friend, One who defends all those who put their trust in Him. At Calvary’s cross He stood in the breach, and received all the mighty blows of God’s eternal judgment against sin, in order that you and I might be spared. Now God can say, “Whosoever believeth in Him shall not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16.)

In our weakness and need, we can never appeal to the Lord in vain. He says, “Whosoever will, may come"; “and Him that cometh to Me, I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

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

ML-06/29/1969

We Plow the Fields

We plow the fields, and scatter

The good seed on the land;

But it is fed and watered

By God’s almighty hand:

He sends the snow in winter,

The warmth to swell the grain;

The breezes, and the sunshine,

And soft refreshing rain.

Chorus—

All good gifts around us

Are sent from heaven above:

Then thank the Lord, O, thank the Lord,

For all His love!

He only is the Maker

Of all things near and far:

He paints the wayside flower;

He lights the evening star;

The winds and waves obey Him;

By Him the birds are fed;

Much more to us, His children,

He gives our daily bread.

We thank Thee, then, O Father,

For all things bright and good:

The seed-time and the harvest,

Our life, our health, our food.

Accept the gifts we offer

For all Thy love imparts;

And—what Thou most desirest—

Our humble, thankful hearts.

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father.” James 1:17.

ML-06/29/1969

The Elephant

WHEN WE see pictures of Noah’s Ark and the animals going in or coming out, there are usually a couple of elephants in the picture, though God hasn’t told us the names of the animals that were in the Ark, What a wonderful creature the elephant is. God put him here on earth, and sometimes one will weigh as much as eight tons. These animals are so big that on a rampage they could destroy a whole village in the country where they live, yet they are so gentle they will baby sit for their master while he is out. He is so tender-hearted that he will even grieve over the death of his master.

What wonderful lessons we can learn from the elephant. In Luke’s gospel, ch. 12, the Lord Jesus speaks of God’s care for us. I don’t know of a Christian who cannot tell how God has cared for him. Yet I find many people who won’t let the Lord Jesus come into their hearts so that He might care for them.

A secretary once said to me, “I wish I could be as happy as you are.” “You can be if you want to be,” I replied. She said, “I know, but I can’t trust Him.”

I trust Him, and I know hundreds of others who trust Him. The Lord Jesus is the only person that ever loved me so much as to die for me. How can I not trust Him?

Just as the ark was able to keep and care for all the animals, so the Lord is able to care for and keep all those who put their trust in Him.

Wait on the Lord: be of good courage, and He shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the Lord. Psa. 27. 14.

ML-06/29/1969

Hungry and Thirsty

A SCOTCH lady found the Saviour late one night, and went upstairs to see if her little boy Donald was awake. Their house was near a mountain.

“Donald,” she exclaimed, “I have found Jesus, and oh I do want you to be a Christian. Tell me whether you have thought about coming to Him?”

“Mother,” said Donald, “do you remember that hot day last summer when we all climbed up the mountain and how very thirsty I was?”

“Yes, dear.”

“Well, Mother, I feel just like that in my heart now. I am so thirsty.”

He meant that he felt himself to be a sinner, that he was thirsting for pardon and salvation; he was hungering and thirsting after righteousness. He knew that he was all wrong, and longed to be right with God. We believe it was not long bore Donald came to the Saviour and had his thirst quenched, for the Lord Himself said, “Blessed are they that hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be filled.”

A little girl, eleven years old, wrote to me: “Your first meeting on Wednesday morning made me hungry for my Saviour, and, thank God, I found Him on the following Sunday.”

There are two kinds of hunger; there is such a thing as being hungry for your dinner, and there is such a thing as being hungry for the Saviour. A child can understand this soul-hunger quite as well as a grown-up person. This little girl understood it perfectly, and I have spoken with many thousands of boys and girls who have been really hungry and thirsty after Jesus.

Have you ever felt this need? If not, then may the blessed Spirit of God create within you this hunger and thirst of soul.

“He satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.” Psa. 107:9.

OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God. Gal. 1. 3:4.

Jesus said, COME UNTO ME, and I will give you rest. Matt. 11. 28.

GOD made the birds to sing to me,

The blossoms on the tree,

To make me glad in summer days;

But why did He make me?

O child, how wonderful and sweet

The answer God has given!

The blessed Lord, who died for thee,

Has need of thee in Heaven.

To make Him glad in Paradise

He needs thy little song;

He needs thee for His love and joy

Where He has waited long.

ML-06/29/1969

The Story of Moses: The Man of God

Ex. 14:13,14

GOD permitted the full power of the enemy to be arrayed against Israel encamped by the Red Sea. Never were they in such great alarm than when they saw Pharaoh and the Egyptians marching after them, and in their unbelief they cried out to Moses: “Because there were no graves in Egypt, hast thou taken us away to die in the wilderness?... For it had been better for us to serve the Egyptians, than that we should die in the wilderness.” They judged according to the sight of their eyes, and as unbelief ever does, they left the Lord out, making it a question between themselves and the Egyptians.

But God used their alarm to show their total inability to cope with their terrible situation. It was for the purpose of having the full power of Satan brought out against His people in order that He might destroy that power forever. Pharaoh and all his hosts and chariots were drawn up there ready to devour the poor children of Israel. Captivity or death seemed certain. But God was there and then about to accomplish a deliverance such as was never known before, and which would ever rain the bright and strong ground for counting on such a God. A work was to be wrought that day in which the people could have no part. They needed deliverance from two things — Pharaoh and his hosts, type of Satan’s power; and death and judgment, as represented by the Red Sea. For through man’s sin Satan now wields the power of death as the just judgment of God against sin.

In Egypt the children of Israel had just experienced what it was to be sheltered from the judgment of God by the blood of the paschal lamb)

but they had not yet learned the value of that blood, how that it had secured everything for them, deliverance from their foes, guidance through the wilderness and eve possession of the promised inheritance. So when Pharaoh appeared they were “sore afraid” and “cried unto the Lord.”

“And Moses said unto the people, Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord, which He will show you today; for the Egyptians whom ye have seen today, ye shall see them again no more forever. The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace.” vv. 13,14.

“Salvation is of the Lord.” How many there are who think they must do something. No! He who has prided the true Passover Lamb (Christ), whose blood cleanses from our sin, will do the rest. Salvation is God’s own perfect, finished work. What can man do in the presence of such foes as Satan and death — as seen here in Pharaoh’s power and the Red Sea? Nothing! He cannot escape, and if he would learn the lesson, he must “stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord.”

“The Lord shall fight for you and ye shall hold your peace.” Here was the great secret of victory.

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

ML-06/29/1969

Saved by a Grasshopper

ONE SUMMER day a young boy on his way home from school was coming along a country lane. He amused himself by chasing birds and butterflies, and then he startled a grasshopper. He began chasing it, and my, how that grasshopper could jump! To escape the boy, at last it jumped over a fence, and the boy followed.

But that was as far as the chase went, for there on the ground on the other side of the fence lay a bundle of clothes, cozily covering the form of a baby boy, whose sweet, innocent face and lovely eyes at once attracted him. Seeing no one around, he felt it was unsafe to leave the little one lying there. He decided the best thing to do was to take it home to his mother. So he gathered the little bundle into his arms and made for home.

The little unwanted baby had no name. No one ever knew who its mother was nor where it had come from. And so this little baby boy was taken into his new home and cared for just like a member of the family.

You might not expect much from a boy who had received such a strange start in life; yet he was a clever little fellow and grew up to be a good man who served his generation well and was honored by many. On the top of a building erected to his memory, you would see not a man’s head, nor a rooster, but a grasshopper. The grasshopper still told the story of how a grasshopper was used to guide the footsteps of a schoolboy in the rescue of a little abandoned child.

In the Old Testament we read the story of how a little baby boy was found in a basket floating on the water at the riverside. This little fellow had a name, however, and perhaps you can remember what it was. A princess found him and adopted him as her own son. He was brought up in the palace of the king in all the wealth and culture of Egypt. God had His eye on that boy and drew him to Himself. Later he became His honored servant to deliver His people from Egypt and lead them to the land of Canaan. His name was Moses and in the first five books of the Bible, which he wrote, you may read how God used and honored him.

God loves little children and He has wonderful ways of caring for them. He loves you too, dear young reader, for He sent His blessed Son down into this world to die and to put away your sins. If you trust the Lord Jesus as your Saviour, you will become not only one of His lambs but God will make you the object of His love and care forever.

He has a work for you to do for Him in this world too; you can point others to the Saviour. And God has a home in heaven waiting for you when He calls all His dear children away from earth to be with Christ forever.

ML-07/06/1969

Tony Overboard

A LARGE ocean liner was sailing from England to India. On board the ship were a large number of valuable foxhounds and among them was one named Tony. The dogs were all kept on their leashes on the deck; but one day Tony slipped his collar and fell overboard into the shark infested waters. The ship sped on and poor Tony was left far behind.

However, when the captain, who was a kind-hearted man, heard that Tony had been lost overboard, he at once ordered the great ship turned around, and they backtracked until the dog was sighted, A lifeboat was lowered and soon poor Tony was hauled aboard, completely exhausted. After some care he recovered and was as frisky as ever.

Tony was lost—he was dying—he was rescued—revived—and he was cared for—all within a few hours.

The Lord Jesus does all this and much more for lost, guilty sinners. He came into the world to save them from sinking down to judgment. We can be sure poor Tony whimpered and cried for help out there alone in the ocean, and help came. Now the Lord Jesus wants to hear your cry of distress, unsaved friend: “Lord, save me!” and His powerful arm will in a moment reach out and lift you out of danger and bring you aboard into the place of safety forever. Then too He will care for you all the way on the voyage across the sea of life, and bring you safe into the heaven’s eternal harbor of rest. Is the Lord Jesus your Saviour? “He is the living God,... He delivereth and rescueth.” Daniel 6:26,27. “Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Romans 10:13.

The Eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.

Deuteronomy 33:27.

Memory Verse “WHOSOEVER SHALL CONFESS ME BORE MEN, HIM SHALL THE SON OF MAN ALSO CONFESS BEFORE THE ANGELS OF GOD.” Luke 12:8.

“Joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth.”

— Luke 15:7

“FOR ALL HAVE SINNED, AND COME

SHORT OF THE GLORY OF GOD; BEING

JUSTIFIED FREELY BY HIS GRACE.”

Romans 3:23.24.

ML-07/06/1969

The Young People's Class: Joshua

1. What were the first two words Rahab spoke to Joshua’s spies who were hiding in her house? Josh.

2. What can the believer say by faith concerning the One in whom he has believed? 2 Tim.

3. How did Rahab come to have this knowledge as to the future of her land? Josh.

4. How does saving faith come to anyone today? Romans 10.

5. What was the effect on the inhabitants of the land when they heard what the Lord had done for Israel. Josh.

6. What future events shall cause unbelieving men’s hearts to fail them for fear? Luke 21.

7. For a seeking soul such as Rahab, what can be said concerning the fear of the Lord? Psalms 111.

ML-07/06/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 1:4:13-14 (Cont’d.)

WE KNOW that had God so willed it, the people of Israel could have made good a full escape from Egypt without this threat from their old enemy. Unless God had allowed it, neither Pharaoh, nor one of the Egyptians could have taken one step in pursuit of them. Why then, was Pharaoh permitted to advance in so threatening a manner, and instill such fear in those who had fled from his land? Certainly we can see the wisdom and purpose of God in all that took place.

The children of Israel had been sheltered by the blood of the Lamb on the night of judgment and terror in Egypt. The blood had kept the destroying angel of God out — this was the great thing on that night. But then they were still in Egypt and God was known only as Judge. Here, however, at Pi-hahiroth the great question is decided, “Was God to have them now, or Satan?” It was a moment of intense pressure in which they learned to “Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord.” For here it is that God takes the place of Saviour-God of His people.

Salvation always means a great deal more than that my sins are judged in the death of Christ, as typified in the passover lamb. Salvation means that I am brought consciously to know God in the triumph of redemption by Christ for me. It is the known destruction of all our foes, a complete deliverance from all that can be brought against us.

As for the Egyptian host — it was to be totally and ingloriously destroyed and that, not by some disaster back in the confines of their land, but Israel were to see their enemies dead on the seashore. Thus God would “get honor upon Pharaoh” where it would be visibly manifested to all. In this, too, they received a token of how He would do with their enemies on many another occasion in coming days. It became a vivid memorial in their history, which their thoughts were often called. Prophetically, this was a for shadowing of the coming day of tribulation, when the faithful remnant of Israel will cry unto God for deliverance from their enemies and will destroy their oppressors completely. In that day they will declare: “Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him... we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation.” Isaiah 25:9.

But we may be sure this experience, at the start of the long journey, was for the instruction and encouragement of His people. They were here to learn that they could not go in their own strength at all and to prove, more blessedly, that Jehovah Himself would be with them in every circumstance, if they would but “Stand still and see His salvation.”

It is good for us to prove the effect of this, too. “If God be for us, wilt can be against us?” should not only prove a bulwark against Satan, but a cheer and comfort to the heart of every believer, who is thus assured that he does not walk the earthly pathway alone. One is there who will never leave nor forsake His own Trials will come indeed. The Chris tian is not promised a smooth and unruffled way through this world but His promise is, “When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee” and the soul trusting this is thus enriched through trial and testing in a way that would never be experienced if all of life wen but a tranquil sea. “That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 1:7.

ML-07/06/1969

Frederick Charrington

FREDERICK CHARRINGTON was born into a very wealthy family. His father was head of the world-famous Charrington Brewery in London. The name Charrington appeared over hundreds of public houses and saloons while their liquors and wines were sold in bars and taverns throughout the world. When young Frederick was just nine years old, one day he threw a whole bundle of bank notes into the fire. When his father demanded why he did it, he replied, “I wanted to see a big blaze.” Years later, while he was still a young fellow, he threw away a fortune for a very different reason.

Frederick’s father sent him,’ on a tour to Europe, and there he met an American named William Rains-ford. Rainsford was a Christian, and he asked Frederick the question of all questions, “Are you saved?”

Frederick did not like being asked such a question, and resented it, but his friend persisted in talking to him about his soul. He said, “When I’m gone, will you read the third chapter of John’s Gospel? Promise me to read it.” Frederick did promise, and some time later he got a Bible and turned to the wonderful chapter which God has used in blessing to countless souls. Frederick remembered that another friend of his, Lord Garvah, had also talked to him about being saved, and both of these friends had said the same thing they knew that they were saved and on their way to heaven. As he read those precious life-giving words of the Saviour, he felt that God was speaking to him. His proud spirit was bowed and humbled before the solemn yet blessed message.

“Ye must be born again... And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:7, 14-16.

Frederick knew he was a sinner and that he needed the Saviour. Right there and then he accepted the Lord Jesus as his own, and passed from darkness into light. From then on, he had the assurance that he too was saved. He began helping in the gospel work among the children, but at the same time he still worked for his father in the brewery. Years later, he related to Gypsy Hawkins the circumstances that led him to give up the wretched brewery business and devote himself to the service of Christ.

“I was coming along the street one Saturday night,” he said, “when I saw a poor ill-clad woman with two or three little children peering in at the door of the public house. I stopped to see what would happen. Presently she went in and said to a man standing at the bar, “Frank, the children and I are starving; give me some money for food before you spend it all on drink.’ The man was furious because she had spoken to him in front of his mates. He took her outside and struck her a blow that knocked her down. I looked down at the woman, and then on the door of the public house I saw, “Charrington Fine Ales.” The blow that struck that wan knocked me clean out of the brewery business forever.”

“Do you regret doing it?” asked Gypsy Hawkins.

“Regret it?” Charrington replied. “I would do the same again tomorrow. God has rewarded me a thousand-fold in this life, to say nothing of the life to come.”

Frederick experienced what it was to suffer for Christ’s sake. One day he was attacked by ruffians, who knocked him down, because he had changed masters. “Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12.

Frederick’s own father did all he could to get him to give up the new life he had chosen, but Frederick told him he was through with the brewery business forever. He gave up a $5,000,000.00 fortune. Nevertheless, before his father died, Frederick had the joy of telling him of his Saviour. We do not know if his father was saved — we hope so; but Frederick was a comfort to him at the end, and he listened intently as his son spoke to him of Christ.

God rewards those who make sacrifices for Him. The man who has Christ is truly rich — rich here and rich hereafter; rich in the possession of Christ and eternal life, and in the love and favor of God.

ML-07/13/1969

The Horse

HORSES are beautiful animals. How many boys and girls wish they had a horse to ride, a horse of their own? Horses are mentioned in the Bible often. They are a picture of pride and strength.

In the Bible we read of some who put more confidence in the number of horses they had than in God. Pharaoh had a strong army of horses and chariots and sought to fight against God. He wanted to bring back the people of God who had marched out of Egypt, and make them slaves again. God had dried up the waters of the Red Sea for His people to pass over in safety, and Pharaoh and his army sought to follow them; but just when they were in the midst of the sea, God caused the waters to return and Pharaoh and all his hosts were drowned. Moses and the children of Israel, as they stood on the banks of the Red Sea, sang: “The horse and his rider hath he thrown into the sea.”

Do you know the middle verse of the Bible? It is Psalms 118:8: “It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man.” Men will trust anything and everything but Christ. This is pride. Man doesn’t like to admit he is a sinner; he thinks himself better than he is. God says, “All have sinned.” Romans 3:23. There isn’t any easier way to say it. People like to alter things so they don’t appear as bad as they are, but the Bible is very clear, “All have sinned.” But God has told us that He has provided a Saviour for sinners. “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Timothy 1:15. Christ only can save sinners. Don’t think you are better than anyone else, or that you can save yourself. You must have Christ as your Saviour, or you will never be saved at all. “There is none other name under heaven gin among men, whereby we must be saved.” Acts 4:12.

ML-07/13/1969

The Sergeant's Boots

IT WAS wartime, and at the soldier barracks gospel meetings were held in the evenings. Many a soldier yielded to the claims of Christ, and often the little place used as an inquiry room was filled with big fellows in uniform down on their knees seeking God.

One soldier, after his conversion, was greatly persecuted by a godless sergeant who threw his boots at the young convert as he knelt in prayer. Nothing daunted, the young Christian got up early next morning and carefully cleaned the sergeant’s boots! The next night the same thing happened. This went on for several nights until the sergeant, now under deep conviction of sin, came to Gypsy Hawkin’s meeting and was soundly converted.

Memory Verse “COME NOW, AND LET US REASON TOGETHER, SAITH THE LORD: THOUGH YOUR SINS BE AS SCARLET, THEY SHALL BE AS WHITE AS SNOW.” Isaiah 1:18.

“Ho, everyone that thirsteth, come ye to the waters.” Isaiah 55:1.

“If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink.” John 7:37. “He that believeth on Me shall never thirst.” John 8:35.

ML-07/13/1969

The Story of Moses, the Man of God

Exodus 14:15-20

MOSES HAD SAID to the people, “Fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD.” The Lord must fight, not they! The Lord must speak; they must hold their peace! Now the period of quietness and waiting was over, and the Lord says to Moses, “Speak unto the children of Israel, that they go forward: but lift thou up thy rod, and stretch out thine hand over the sea, and divide it: and the children of Israel shall go on dry ground through the midst of the sea.” vv. 15,16. God desires His people to go forward, in spite of apparent difficulties. Pharaoh, as we have seen, is a type of Satan’s power; the Red Sea would seem to bar their advance, a type of death and judgment. Typically then, through faith, by the finished work of salvation, a way of escape from Satan’s power through death has been opened. Being opened, it is for the believer to walk through it, to go boldly forward in confidence in Him who hang been judged, has now become the Saviour of His people. He will show His power over the sea (death) before the eyes of His people, to pacify their fears, and assure them of His protection and care. He tells us in Psalms 32:8, “I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with Mine eye.”

When the testing is most severe the ways of God shine out most brightly, in contrast to the energy of the flesh. Not only had all that surrounded Israel given sudden rise to their terror, but the approaching darkness of night could only add to their fears. Not only in the darkness of their despair, but also in the darkness of the night was God’s hand to be plainly seen.

The multitude obeyed Moses; they “held their peace” and now awaited the promised salvation. In this attitude the Lord could come in and display His power.

“And the Angel of God, which went before the camp of Israel, roved and went behind them; and the pillar of the cloud went from before their face, and stood behind them: and it came between the camp of the Egyptians and the camp of Israel; and it was a cloud and darkness to them, but it gave light by night to these: so that the one came not near the other all the night.” And faith in the face of the display of divine power can ever say: “Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy; when I fall I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the LORD shall be a light unto me.” Micah 7:8. And so it was on the shores of the Red Sea. The darkness was employed by God to protect His people from their enemy, but with them all was bright. In the brilliance of this divinely ordered light they could approach the sea, obedient to His instructions.

Beloved, we too walk in a dark scene, with the enemy near at hand, but there is a path of light through it all for the believer who will walk in faith and in the good of God’s abounding care, even in the most severe trial.

ML-07/13/1969

Black Magic

IT HAPPENED in Japan years ago. A group of Japanese school boys were gathered in a corner of the school yard, under the shadows of the heathen temple to which the school belonged. Something unpleasant was in the air, and the older boys were holding a council of war.

“He’s got to clear out,” demanded one of the leaders in a rough voice.

“Who’s got to clear out?” asked another.

“Why, that new fellow over there. I’ve just found out he’s a Christian. His father has a house near ours. They only came about a month ago.”

“I wonder why he comes here if he’s a Christian,” remarked another boy.

“Well, there’s no other school for him to go to, I suppose. Anyway,” added the leader, fiercely, “He’s got to go.”

“Why not report him to the teacher at once?” suggested one of the younger boys.

“Pooh! That shows how much you know about it,” remarked the older boy. “The government has allowed the Christians’ religion, and they can come and go and do what they like.”

The boys tried to think of some way that they could corner the new boy and have him banished, but in vain. Then a few days later it was noised abroad that the new scholar had been reported to the teacher on a charge of “Black Magic.”

The boys trooped into school that afternoon in high glee to witness the trial. The teacher’s face was stern, for the charge was a grave one. He was not a little surprised that the new boy who was quiet and well-mannered, should be the accused; however, he resolved to judge the matter at once in public and give the defendant the chance of clearing himself. When the whole school had assembled he accordingly called him up to the front.

All unsuspecting, the boy obeyed. Then as he stood before him, the teacher told the school of the charge which had been made against him — the serious charge of using the arts of Black Magic in the form of curious incantations and signs made over food at mealtime. These had excited suspicions and such conduct was entirely forbidden in that school.

“Now,” said the teacher, “what answer have you to make to these charges?”

For a moment an awful silence reigned, and even some of the conspirators were surprised to find themselves actually wishing they had not made it quite so “hot” for their poor school-fellow. But, conscious of his innocence, the boy met his master’s gaze fearlessly. For a few minutes he had been entirely surprised and perplexed.

“Black Magic?” He, a Christian, accused of Black Magic! He knew his companions for the most part did not like him, though he had tried to be friendly, but he had never dreamed they would carry their dislike so far. What ground could he have given them for this charge?

Then suddenly a light broke upon him — the mystery was solved. How foolish he had been not to think of it at once! Eagerly he broke the silence: “Please, sir, I’ve never used ‘Black Magic’ or anything of that sort in my life, but I think I know now what has led to my being accused of it. I’m a Christian, sir,” Continued the boy, drawing himself up bravely, “and we always thank God, before and after our meals, for His goodness in supplying our food. We always close our eyes and say a few words of thanks and praise to Him. I suppose the boys noticed me at lunchtime. That’s all I can think of, sir.”

The boy had hardly made his brave confession when the teacher sat down and buried his face in his hands. The boys held their breath in astonishment. What was the meaning of such conduct?

It was only for a moment, hover; the teacher was on his feet again, his face pale with intense emotion, but a new light shone in his eyes.

“My boy,” he said, “you have cleared yourself of all blame. You have been guilty of no sin. This accusation is utterly unfounded. Wait a minute,” he added, seeing that the boy was about to go back to his seat, “There is something more I have to say to the whole school, and I should like to have you beside me.”

Then with his hand on the boy’s shoulder, the teacher continued: “Boys, there is something I wish to tell you that will, no doubt, come as a great surprise to you all. I too am a Christian. Some years ago, bore I came here, I learned to know and trust the same great God and Saviour as this boy. But I now confess with shame and sorrow that here in this place I have been afraid to own it. I knew that as a Christian I should not be given the job of teacher in this school, and so I hid my true colors. The brave confession of faith which this boy has made has opened my eyes to my sinful failure. I know that now I can no longer remain here as your teacher, but I pray that I may never again be tempted to disown the Lord Jesus Christ, cost what it may.”

As expected, the teacher had soon to look for employment elsewhere, but he was not long in getting a situation in a Christian school. He never forgot the lesson learned that memorable day, nor the sight of that solitary little Christian standing fearlessly in the midst of his heathen companions. He has learned that the same power that kept that dear boy true and brave could keep him in the hours of temptation and trial.

“Them that honor Me I will honor.” 1 Samuel 2:30.

“If any man serve Me, him will My Father honor.” John 12:26.

ML-07/20/1969

Joe and the Pudding

MRS. MEYERS had made some chocolate pudding and left it on the kitchen table to cool. Having to go out a little while, she called out to Joe, her little son, “Joe, I’m going out. Now you be a good boy, won’t you, and don’t touch the pudding!”

“No, Mother, I won’t,” he assured her, and went on with his play. A little later he got tired of playing and sighted the chocolate pudding. How good it looked, and he was hungry. Then the evil thought came into his heart that one spoonful of the pudding wouldn’t be missed, so in spite of his promise to his mother he got a spoon out of the drawer and tasted a little of the pudding. It was as good as it looked, so Joe took another spoonful, and then another, and another. Before Joe realized it, most of the pudding was gone.

Then it was that his conscience smote him for what he had done. He had disobeyed his dear mother. What could he do now? Even as he stood there crestfallen and in fear, he heard her steps coming in the door. But one sin leads to another. He suddenly thought, “I’ll blame it on the cat.” So, hastily picking up the cat, he shoved its nose and front feet into the pudding, and when mother came into the room he tried to look unconcerned, but mother wasn’t fooled. Joe tried to blame the cat, but mother said, “Cats don’t eat pudding with a spoon. Look at that dirty spoon you left on the table!”

Joe was punished and sent upstairs to his bedroom and told to remain there until his mother called for him.

The Bible says, “Be sure your sin will find you out.” Numbers 32:23. It was a good thing for Joe that his mother did find out what he had done and that he was punished for his sin; because, dear boys and girls, sin unconfessed has a hardening effect on the conscience, and the punishment that Joe received that day no doubt helped to keep him from worse evil.

The Lord Jesus shed His blood on Calvary’s cross to wash away sin, and this is the only thing in the sight of God that can take away its scarlet stain. “The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7.

“He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.” Proverbs 28:13.

~~~

COME THOU. Genesis 7:1 — COME NOW. Isaiah 1:18

C stands for Children

O stands for Old People

M stands for Middle Aged

E stands for Everybody

Young folks, old folks,

Folks of every town,

White folks, black folks.

Yellow, red and brown:

Jesus died to save them,

Take away their sin,

And to put the sunlight of His love within.

ML-07/20/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 14:21-31

“AND MOSES stretched out his hand over the sea; and the LORD caused the sea to go back by a strong east wind all that night, and made the sea dry land, and the waters were divided. And the children of Israel went into the midst of the sea upon the dry ground: and the waters were a wall unto them on their right hand, and on their left.”

In the many years since this miraculous event took place, men’s imaginations and reasonings have sought to explain this “phenomenon” by a wide variety of inventive and ingenious theories, yet all the while the magnificent explanation is clearly before them: “And the LORD caused the sea to go back.” This was sufficient for Israel and is so for us. They could enter this opening certain of gaining the other shore in safety, where it is recorded of them: “By faith they passed through the Red Sea, as by dry land.” Hebrews 11:29. Through the opened waters they traveled with all their herds and possessions and not a soul or beast was lost. There is no difficulty too great for our God!

But the lot of Pharaoh and his army was total disaster, as will be the eventual end of every enemy of God and His people. The Egyptians should be hardened to follow, and to follow for their own destruction, and God will be glorified both in the salvation of His people and the destruction of their foes.

“And the Egyptians pursued, and went in after them to the midst of the sea, even all Pharaoh’s horses, his chariots, and his horsemen... And the LORD said unto Moses, Stretch out thine hand over the sea, that the waters may come again upon the Egyptians... and the sea returned to his strength when the morning appeared; and the Egyptians fled against it; and the Lord overthrew the Egyptians in the midst of the sea. And the waters returned, and covered the chariots and the horsemen, and all the hosts of Pharaoh... there remained not so much as one of them... Thus the LORD saved Israel that day out of the hand of the Egyptians; and Israel saw the Egyptians dead upon the seashore... and the people feared the LORD, and believed the LORD, and His servant Moses.” 10:23-31. They had indeed “seen God’s salvation! The promise, “the Lord shall fight for you,” had been manifestly fulfilled. Standing safely on the shore, they saw the sea return to its natural state, providing a sure barrier between them and the land of their bondage, as also all that had marked their former life.

The Egyptians “assayed” to follow the same path, but the waters that provided safety for God’s people proved but a grave to them. We see a tragic parallel in this today. Many there are who imitate faith’s ways, but know not Christ as their Saviour. To face the power of death in human confidence is certain destruction. Only those under the shelter of the blood can pass through in safely. All others will surely be overwhelmed. There can be no escape apart from Christ. He only is the way of safety, because He alone has met and overcome death; He is the One who has died, has risen again, and is alive forevermore.

ML-07/20/1969

Jim, the Sweep

THE BUSY streets of the great city were thronged with the crowds of men, women and children, all hastening home at the close of the day’s work.

At one corner of the road a crowd had gathered. An open-air gospel service was being held, and the earnest voice of the young man who was telling out the good news of God’s love arrested each passer-by for a few moments at any rate.

Then from one of the neighboring houses out came Jim Macroe, a chimney-sweep, well known as one who scoffed at all who took their place as followers of Christ. He walked briskly down the road, his long brushes balanced on one shoulder, still full of the soot from his last chimney.

“What’s up here?” he exclaimed as the crowd caught his eye. “A meeting? I’ll soon settle these folk,” he added, with a twinkle in his eye. “I’ve only got to bust into that ring, flourish my brushes a bit, and there’ll be few folks left to hear the preach-in’ after that.”

He was on the point of putting his plan into practice, when he caught the eye of the speaker who discovered his intention in a moment. The crowd separated to avoid the black brushes, and the sweep stood for a moment, hesitating to advance.

“Friend,” said the speaker, looking into Jim’s black face, “do you know that God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son to die for you?”

Jim stood as though rooted to the spot. The crowd waited breathlessly to hear what would follow.

“Will you say that again, sir?” said Jim at length. Slowly and impressively the young speaker repeated: “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

As the sweet old gospel message rang out above the din of the traffic, the poor sweep was deeply moved. Tears filled his eyes, and then flowed down his grimy cheeks. For some moments he was unable to speak. Then in a voice broken with the depth of his feelings, he sobbed out, “Sir, I’ve got five great boys at home, and I wouldn’t give the worst of them for the best man in this city. If God loved me, a great black sinner, like that, then His must be a wonderful love.”

And there, in that very spot where he had sought to disturb the work of God, he found out that he was a sinner and that the love of God reached even to him. From then on there was a great change in him, for “if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature.” 2 Corinthians 5:17. His old companions soon saw the difference in their old mate, and many of them heard from Jim the story of God’s love. His one theme put into a few lines was —“O it is wonderful That He should care for me Enough to die for me! O it is wonderful, Wonderful to me!”

ML-07/27/1969

The Beaver

HAVE YOU ever heard the expressions, “Busy as a Beaver,” “Eager Beaver"? This is said of someone who is active in doing things. The beaver is a picture of what a person should do and be bore God. The busy little beaver prepares for the future; he helps others, but he is always alert to danger and rests in time of storm.

Just apply the examples of the beaver to yourself, as you prepare for the future. Are you saved? in Proverbs 10:5 we read, “He that gathereth in summer is a wise son? This is the time to lay up treasure and that treasure is Christ. Are you prepared to meet God? Are you ready for a future in heaven, singing the praise of Him who loved you and died for you? Or will you have to say in the coming day, “The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and [I am] not saved.” Jeremiah 8:20—alone and condemned, without Christ, a future of misery and sorrow. Dear young friend, prepare for a future with God’s Son; “Seek ye the Lord while He may be found.”

Then, if you are saved, you can be helping others like the beaver does. Do others know you are a Christian? In this dark world we are called to shine forth as lights in the darkness; and we will shine if we let Christ rule in our hearts.

If there is sudden danger, one slap of the beaver’s tail in the water, and the other beavers for half a mile around dive for safety. They don’t fool with danger. The Christian has a great enemy—Satan. We should never play with sin or temptation. We should keep close to the Lord Jesus and with those who are saved and desire to please Him.

When the winter is cold, the bear is comfortable inside his house under his dam. When judgment comes upon this world, the Christian will be at rest in heaven with Him “Who washed us from our sins in His own blood.” We will spend eternity with Him whom we learn to love and serve down here on earth. Earth and its cares will be left behind forever.

Memory Verse “ALL THEY THAT GO DOWN TO THE DUST SHALL BOW BEFORE HIM: AND NONE CAN KEEP ALIVE HIS OWN SOUL.” Psalms 22:29.

ML-07/27/1969

Led Through a Dog

JUST SUPPOSE you were sitting in a large gospel meeting, waiting for the service to begin. What would you say if you saw a great big dog come slowly up the aisle leading two blind people on the end of his leash. Well, this is what happened in St. Louis years ago and it was that same noble dog that was used of God to bring the man and his wife to know and love the Saviour.

The blind lady was out for a walk with her big Alsatian one Sunday morning. I don’t know what it was that prompted the dog to do such a thing; perhaps he followed a lot of other people who were entering the large hall; yet surely the hand of his faithful Creator was leading him, though doubtless he knew it not. But without any advance notice he calmly led his mistress into the large congregation. There she sat down, the dog alongside her.

Of course the dog could not understand a word of what was said, but the lady heard the Word of God preached and she had a desire to come back and hear more. Each Sunday after that she continued to allow the dog to lead her back there again, and then one day she confessed the Lord as her Saviour. Later she was baptized. Her husband also had become interested and began attending the meetings with her. Then on one occasion a visiting gospel preacher asked if any in the crowd would like to accept Christ as their Saviour and confess Him publicly. Among those who did so was this blind man. So now both he and his wife were happy in Christ—and God had used their old dog as His instrument in bringing them into blessing.

God can use His creatures or anything He likes to bring about His purposes; but He likes to use boys and girls, those who have first trusted Christ as their Saviour themselves. It is a wonderful joy to be a Christian, dear friends, to know and love the Lord Jesus, and to shine for Him in this dark world. “They that seek Me early shall find Me.” He says in Proverbs 8:17; and “Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

The Lord Jesus is coming soon to take all His own away from this earth home to heaven. O be ready to enter in with Him before the door is shut forever!

ML-07/27/1969

How Old Art Thou?

Genesis 47:8

A LITTLE child of seven,

Or even three or four,

May enter into heaven

Through Christ, the open Door

How old are you, 6:7, or 8?

Come now to Jesus, do not wait.

How old are you, 9:10,

Is your name written yet in Heaven?

How old are you, 12 or 13?

In Jesus Christ is God’s love seen.

How old are you, 14 or more?

Come! enter now thru Christ the Door.

How old are you? It matters not,

His blood alone can cleanse each spot.

You need Him whether young or old,

There’s room for all within His fold.

ML-07/27/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 15:1-20

“THEN SANG MOSES and the children of Israel this song unto the LORD...”

Exodus 15 is the first song ever sung which we hear of in the Word of God! The first song burst forth from the heart of Israel, and we find in it three distinct notes of praise.

The first is the LORD! Self is forgotten and the deliverer alone is seen. This is as it should be. “I will sing unto the LORD, for He hath triumphed gloriously: the horse and his rider hath He thrown into the sea. The LORD is my strength and song, and He is become my salvation: He is my God, and I will prepare Him a habitation.” vv 1,2.

Next we have the enemy — those mighty forces whom He has subdued. “Pharaoh’s chariots and his host hath He cast into the sea... the depths have covered them:... they sank into the bottom as a stone.”

And last of all they turned to their own portion — the blessedness and inheritance of the people the Lord had redeemed. “Thou in Thy mercy hast led forth the people which Thou hast redeemed: Thou hast guided them in Thy strength unto Thy holy habitation.” These are the three notes of praise. Here is the divine order, the manner in which the Spit of God would lead the full rich song. May we who have been redeemed know more of what it is to burst forth in song and joyful praise “unto Him that loves us, and washed us from our sins in His own blood... " Revelation 1:5.

How wonderful it must have been to hear all Israel — perhaps two million voices—standing on redemption ground and singing that magnificent song of praise to the Lord who had redeemed them! The passage of the Red Sea is a figure of the death of Christ, as also of His resurrection, the believer seen as in Him. It tells of the full redemption of the believer from the power of Satan, and separation from the life he formerly knew when walking “in the lusts of the flesh.” The Lord Jesus has not only provided cleansing for the believer’s sins through His precious blood, but also through His death and resurrection He has brought him out of his old condition, and put him in a new place in Him on the other side of death and judgment. He has been completely delivered from all that was against him, and therefore Satan has lost his rights over him. The Jordan also speaks of the death of Christ. There the believer is seen as dead and risen with Him, and claiming his full place of separation with his Saviour — crucified and risen with Christ.

In this song, for the first time mention is made of a habitation for the Lord with His people. He had saints before this, but not a people; and until redemption was accomplished He never dwelt on earth. He could not have a dwelling place in Egypt, in the territory of the enemy. And when His people have been redeemed out of Egypt and brought onto new ground, He can identify Himself with them, dwell in them, be their God and they His people. This is true now of believers. The Church is God’s present habitation on earth, and it is so with the individual believer. When he is cleansed with the blood of Christ his body is made a temple of the Holy Spirit.

ML-07/27/1969

The Mouse and the Ring

“HYMN No. 181, ‘Lo, a loving Friend is Waiting?” gave out a young fellow standing at the edge of a group of children. It was a children’s gospel service, and the hymn was well sung by all present. After the fifth verse the speaker said: “Please sit down now and let me tell you something that I often connect in my mind with that last verse you sang.

“I knew a lady who had lost a very valuable ring. Very mysteriously it had disappeared one night from her dresser, though she had not left the room, and two other rings close by were all safe. She was sure she had slipped all three off her finger, and put them on an old china tray, as usual. But in the morning, her watch, broach, and two rings lay there, but the third one was missing. On the tray was a small packet of cereal.

“High and low the children and servants searched for that ring, but all in vain.

“It was just three years later some repairs were being made in another part of the house. Part of the flooring was taken up, and there lay the skeleton of a mouse, with the beautiful diamond ring around its neck! It seemed as if the poor little fellow had found a little cereal scattered on the tray and, while eating it and searching for more, he had slipped his head through the ring. Being smooth and round, very likely it caused no inconvenience at first: but, as the mouse grew, the ring became tight and then tighter, and from the bent shape of the neck-bones it had evidently strangled him. They also showed that he had worn it for some time.”

The large group of children and their friends listened with much interest, and the speaker continued: “Perhaps that mouse could have slipped out of the ring at first; and then he would feel it getting tighter and tighter, until it caused his death. How true is that line, ‘Sin grows stronger.’ Yes, sin indulged in tightens and tightens its deadly hold till... you know what the Bible says is the end of the unpardoned sinner. “The wages of sin is death.”

Now let us sing that verse very prayerfully and softly again: “Soon that voice will cease its calling;

Wilt thou still delay?

Wait no longer, sin grows stronger, Come today.”

Thank God, two present at that morning service did yield to the Saviour that day. One was a lady, the other a fourteen-year-old school boy. Both sought and found Him who had died and set them free from the bondage of sin and Satan, and both are still rejoicing in the glorious liberty of grace.

“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23.

ML-08/03/1969

Sailing, but Where?

“DO YOU know, men, that during all my forty years at sea, I never once met a ship that wasn’t bound for somewhere!” So spoke a sea captain as he addressed an audience of seamen. A broad smile spread over their faces as the foolishness of the thought struck them.

“But would you believe it possible,” he continued, “that though dung all my life’s voyage, I’ve never met a human ship (men like you and me) which wasn’t bound somewhere, yet when I’ve asked many of them what port they are bound for they couldn’t tell me—they hoped it was heaven!”

Just think this over. What port are you bound for? That you are sailing onward on the sea of time is certain. Every day brings you closer to the end of your voyage down here. Your journey of life may end today, who can tell? “Boast not thyself of tomorrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.”

What port would your never-dying soul then enter? Would it be heaven or hell? These are the only two ports on the shore of eternity and you must enter one or the other. What port are you sailing for now? Are you sure of your destination?

ML-08/03/1969

A Sergeant Saved

GYPSY HAWKINS, the evangelist, was visiting an army camp in England one day during the war. The fort there was jealously guard. One day when the Gypsy went out for a walk and entered the fort by a different route, he was halted by a sentry who did not know him, Not having a pass, he was placed in the guard room and the sergeant was summoned. The Gypsy’s credentials were examined and found all right, so he was allowed to proceed. Before doing so, he had a word with the sergeant.

“Have you got a pass for heaven, Sergeant?” said the evangelist.

“I’m afraid not,” was the reply.

“Then you’d better get one at once,” said the Gypsy; “for if they are half as particular there as you are here, you don’t stand a ghost of a chance of getting in!”

The sergeant smiled, but the Gypsy’s words had pierced a joint in his harness. Four days later he accepted Christ as his Saviour. Rising from his knees, he gripped the Gypsy’s hand and said, “Thank God, I’ve got my pass for heaven now. That was the only thing that was troubling me. If death should come to me in the trenches, it won’t be death but life everlasting.”

Memory Verse “THEREFORE BE YE ALSO READY: FOR IN SUCH AN HOUR AS YE THINK NOT THE SON OF MAN COMETH,” Matt. 24:44.

ML-08/03/1969

The Young People's Class: Joshua

1. What request did Rahab make of the two spies sent out by Joshua? Josh.

2. What example did the Apostle Paul leave us concerning Him who has delivered us from death? 2 Corinthians 1.

3. How does Scripture view Rahab’s reception of the spies, which, humanly-speaking, should have been grossly condemned? Hebrews 11.

4. What is necessary for anyone who would come to God for help, or seek to please Him? Hebrews 11.

5. What was given to Rahab which afforded her peace in knowing that she should be spared from the coming judgment? Josh.

6. What is it of scarlet color through which peace has been made for the Christian? Colossians 1.

7. What was the act of Rahab’s faith, showing she was justified by works and not by faith only? James 2.

ML-08/03/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 15:20,21

“AND MIRIAM the prophetess, the sister of Aaron, took a timbrel in her hand; and all the women went out after her with timbrels and with dances. And Miriam answered them, Sing ye to the Lord, for He hath triumphed gloriously.”

Moses’ sister, with all the women, thus responded to the song of praise in which Moses led all the people. What a thrilling scene!

Surely this was a day of thanksgiving and meditation for Moses, as he once more saw God’s mighty works displayed on behalf of His people. On the edge of the desert on which he again stood, he saw the final defeat of that great enemy and the Israelites safe at last from his mighty power. Well might his heart burst forth in song and inspire all to join with him.

The song of Israel expressed their happiness in deliverance even though aware that there was still the wilderness before them. They were not in Canaan yet, but faith can speak of future glory with as much certainty as it speaks of the past, for no one can hinder the fulfillment of God’s purposes or of blessing. We who are saved do not only hope to go to heaven; we know we are going there, because God says so.

The inhabitants of Palestina, the dukes of Edom, the mighty men of Moab, (10:14,15) could not stop the children of Israel from reaching Canaan, because they were God’s redeemed people and He was going to bring them there. Let us not forget, dear young Christians, that we trust in the living God, and He is going to fulfill His promises to us in spite of all the opposition of men and Satan.

What should ever characterize the Christian is the joy of God’s salvation being the ever-present theme to lift his heart heavenward. “Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth.” Colossians 3:2, “While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things, which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.” 2 Corinthians 4:18.

It was Miriam’s honor and privilege to be the leader and mouthpiece of the joy of the women of Israel. The hearts of all were filled with gladness, and found their utterance in music, dancing, and song. They were redeemed, and they knew it on this happy morning; and laden with the joy of their salvation, they tell it out in these songs of thankfulness and praise.

The children of Israel, joyful at God’s deliverance for them, were soon to learn that circumstances alone form a poor basis for happiness. It is a question of that which occupies our hearts. If we are occupied with Christ, we will joy even in tribulation and suffering. A Christian who takes his circumstances from the Lord and goes on with the Lord in those circumstances will experience true joy and peace.

“These things have I spoken unto you, that My joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full.” John 15:11.

ML-08/03/1969

A Fight with Wolves

SPORT WAS A big powerful dog who belonged to Andre Minnett, a woodsman who lived at Seguin Falls in Ontario years ago. Minnett’s home was in a clearing in the woods. Sport used to go with his master on trapping trips through the forest, and at night he would stand guard by the campfire while his master slept.

Sport was a born wolf-fighter. Ordinarily a timber wolf would be more than a match for a dog of his size. Not only did Sport possess size and strength, but he was clever and fearless as well. More than once he had taken on and whipped a wolf that prowled too close to camp.

However, Sport knew he could not defend himself if he ventured far into the forest alone and there encountered a pack of wolves, so he wisely kept close to his master on his camping trips.

Then one day a little baby boy was born into the Minnett household. Jean, the little newcomer, captured Sport’s affections and became his idol almost as soon as he arrived. The dog would lie by the hour beside the baby’s crib or carriage. Hanging onto the great dog’s fur, little Jean took his first tottering steps. He could maul Sport around without the slightest resentment from the dog, and his mother felt her baby was entirely safe while Sport was on guard.

One day, Minnett went to the top of a hill not far away to cut logs. Mrs. Minnett had put little Jean in his carriage out in the yard in the sunshine, and leaving the kitchen door open she went back to her housework. Sport stretched out on the ground beside the carriage.

Looking up from his work, Minnett caught sight of three large hungry-looking wolves slinking down the hillside toward the clearing. Supposing that his little son was safe indoors with his mother, and that Sport was around too, he was not really concerned. Still he watched to see what induced them to come so close to human habitation in broad daylight.

Dozing in the sunlight the hated wolf scent roused Sport, and springing to his feet he saw the three wolves enter the clearing. Sport knew well that he could not handle three timber wolves alone. Behind him was the open doorway into which he could have run for shelter, but this would mean leaving little Jean, whom he loved more than life, at the mercy of the three Savage marauders.

There was only one thing to do. Sport’ ran out to meet the invading enemies. He maneuvered around always keeping his own body between them and little Jean. Sparring like a prizefighter with his snarling enemies, he finally got the wolves with their backs to the baby, while he himself was edging off into the woods. It seemed that both sides were afraid to make the first attack. Then suddenly, as if terrified Sport turned and dashed off into the woods, the three wolves following hard at his heels.

Brave Sport did what he set out to do. The gallant dog made that heroic sacrifice to save the life of his little charge. It was his last fight. He never returned.

Some part of the bright character of God the Creator is stamped upon all the creatures He has made. How often in a dog is seen a love and devotion that fills the heart with wonder and admiration. But the love and devotion of the Creator Himself transcends all His works. The devotion of Christ to God His Father and His love to poor sinners whom came to save, was “even unto death and that the death of the cross; There in those dark hours He stood between us and the enemy — “our sins in all their terror there. God’s wrath and Satan’s power.” Not on, stroke of that fearful judgment against sin could ever touch the weakest child that trusts Him as his or her Saviour. He has borne it all, May the story of a gallant dog faithfulness only lead our thought to the far more wonderful story Jesus and His love, and occupy on minds with Him who when we were yet sinners died for us, but who now lives again in the glory of God.

Dear reader, if you do not knot this precious Saviour, we urge ye to receive Him by faith into you heart now, and enjoy His love as companionship all the way frog earth to heaven?

“The Son of God, who loved me and gave Himself for me.” Galatians 2:20

Lord of the brooding blue, of pleasant summer skies,

Lord of each little bird that through the clear air flies

’Tis wonderful to me that I am loved by Thee.

THY LOVE TO ME WAS WONDERFUL. 2 Samuel 1:2

ML-08/10/1969

"Tank You Jesus"

SANDRA was a little girl, just four years old. Her mother had died and she was being taken care of by a very kind aunt. Just recently she had become very fond of that little hymn:

“Gentle Jesus, meek and mild,

Look upon a little child —”

The last two lines especially appealed to the little girl:

“In the kingdom of Thy grace,

Give a little child a place.”

Little Sandra was playing in her auntie’s dining room, and not aware that anyone else was in the room. But her cousin heard her sweet little voice saying very gently, but very earnestly: “Tank You, Jesus. Tank You, Jus. TANK You, Jesus.”

Curious to know what it was about, her cousin went to her and asked, “What are you thanking Jesus for, darling?”

The dear little girl looked up quickly and said, so brightly, “O, I was only tanking Him for divving a little child a pace. He did, didn’t He?”

“Yes, indeed He did.” Jesus died that He might give poor sinners who trust Him a place in heaven with and like Himself.

Even a little child can understand a gift. Everything a little one receives is given as a gift. So we have to become as little children and receive all.

We ought to thank the Lord Jesus for His precious gift of salvation. We ought to thank God the Father too for the gift of His own dear Son, our Saviour.

“Thanks be unto God for His unspeakable gift.” 2 Corinthians 9:15.

ML-08/10/1969

Christ for Me

RICHARD Weaver, the converted coal miner, was to preach in Queen’s Park, Edinburgh, one Sunday evening. The park was set in the midst of some hills and as Mr. Weaver mounted the platform, he found himself in an amphitheater made by the Lord. Some estimated the audience at 40,000. The crowd was so great that he was afraid he could not make himself heard by all. So he got some friends to go to the outskirts of the crowd on the upper part of the hill and hold up their hands if they heard and understood.

Having in this way discovered that his voice was carrying, he preached from those words of Elijah, “How long halt ye between two opinions?” 1 Kings 18:21. During the service, Mr. Weaver himself sang the gospel hymn, “Christ for Me!”

My heart is fixed, eternal God.

Fixed on Thee!

And my immortal choice is made:

Christ for me!

He said afterward that service was one of the most wonderful in all his experience. He felt that the God of Elijah was with him. Later a meeting for inquirers was held in the assembly hall. The number of those who with broken hearts were seeking Christ was very great.

One of these had a sad tale to tell. Drawing a rope from beneath her coat, she said: “Take this, sir. I was on the way to drown myself, and this rope was to tie my legs. I heard the sound of singing in the park. I turned aside to see where it came from, and was thus led to your meeting. Your singing that hymn, “Christ for Me!” opened my eyes. Instead of being drowned, and condemned, I am now in this hall saved by the grace of God, and having life in Christ, my risen Lord. How can I praise Him for what He has done for me!”

ML-08/10/1969

The Story of Moses, the Man of God

Exodus 15:22,23

“SO MOSES brought Israel from la the Red Sea, and they went out into the wilderness of Shur.” verse 22. The children of Israel had only just sung their joyous songs of triumph and praise to the Lord, after their complete deliverance from Egypt. God’s glorious victory had left them in a spirit of praise and thankfulness. One would suppose that now all would be well.

Such joy often fills the soul of a new convert now. What joyous feelings come to one delivered from San’s power, when set free from doubts and fears of judgment to come, through resting in faith on the work of Christ. To such it almost seems that nothing can ever go wrong again, that life will henceforth be free from trials and full of happiness. In fact it would be strange if this new-found salvation were not accompanied with happiness and “songs of deliverance,” for nothing means more to the anxious soul than salvation from sin, and peace with God.

“They went three days in the wilderness, and found no water.” The three days speak of death. The people had in figure passed through death at the Red Sea; now they must learn it practically. To the believer the world has now become a desert, a place of trial and exercise of heart, and this must be entered into by the acceptance of death. There can be no real progress, no break with the past, until death is accepted. He is to reckon himself dead to sin (Rom. 6), dead to the law (Rom. 7), and dead to the world (Gal. 6).

These first three days give the character of the whole wilderness journey, right onward to the end. The wilderness does not change; the bitter waters are met with all along the way. If the cross of Christ has redeemed our souls, we must take up our own cross, daily, and follow Christ to the end.

Yet the believer will prove there is now One who will be with him through these trials, and he will become acquainted with God in a way that he never could be otherwise. The wilderness is a remarkable schooling place and if the Christian accepts these trials as being allowed of God for his own good, and priding opportunities in which he can honor God, then his soul will be enriched through them.

These first three days were an introductory period of testing for Israel and ordered of God for their profit. If they learned its lessons they would be better prepared for the longer journey before them. God was to allow this trial to prove their own hearts and show His preserving care that would mark the whole wilderness period.

“And when they came to Marah, they could not drink of the waters of Marah, for they were bitter: therefore the name of it was called Marah [or bitterness].” verse 23.

Memory Verse “THE LORD IS GOOD UNTO THEM THAT WAIT FOR HIM, TO THE SOUL THAT SEEKETH HIM.” Lamentations 3:25.

ML-08/10/1969

A Stolen Bible

JHWANI DAS was a highway robber in India. One day he held up and robbed a native Christian teacher. Part of the loot he took was a book containing portions of the Bible. He took the Book home and his son, who was a school boy, asked for it. One day Jhwani Das asked his son to read to him from this Book. The boy opened the Bible at random, and his eye chanced to fall on the Book of Numbers chapter 32, verse 23 “Be sure your sin will find you out.”

No sooner had his father heard this verse read to him than he began to tremble and show great fear. His son asked him what was the matter, but he got no answer. Later on, the father took the Book himself and began to read, and came again upon this very same verse: “Be sure your sin will find you out.”

Convicted of his sins, and fearful of coming punishment, he read further on in the Old Testament and then in the New. He learned of Christ the Saviour who came into the world to save sinners from their sins. Das then went to the mission station at Budaon. There he learned more fully of how, great sinner though he was, God loved him, and Jesus died for him. He believed, was baptized, and for the rest of his days on earth he lived a consistent Christian life.

“BE SURE YOUR SIN WILL FIND YOU OUT.” It does not say, “Men will find your sins out,” no, though they do find out a good many of them; but whether men find them out or not, sin and its penalty will find us out.

Let us turn to another verse, Proverbs 28:13, and read: “He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.”

Two things must be done: Confess, forsake. Have you, dear reader, confessed to God, and do you know the peace that comes with having your sins forgiven? If so He will give you strength to live and shine for Jesus in your life.

ML-08/17/1969

The Water of Life

IT WAS at a children’s meeting and two young girls, who were sisters, stayed behind after the service. I had been speaking from the words: “If thou knewest the gift of God, and who it is that saith to thee, Give Me to drink; thou wouldest have asked of Him, and He would have given thee living water... “whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: but whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst.” John 4:10,13,14.

“In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, sang, If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink.” John 7:37.

A friend asked these two girls why they stayed. The youngest answered with deep earnestness: “We want the water of life that Jesus has promised to give.”

That morning they both came to Jesus, and their soul-thirst was satisfied. Oh, what a happy day it was for them!

Some months passed away and then my friend received a letter from one of them, in which she said, “We are still drinking the water of life.”

Suppose three little boys, each holding an empty cup in his hand, said that they were very thirsty. The one, being very poor, held a tin cup; the next, quite well dressed, held in his hand a sparkling silver cup; and the third, being a king’s son, held a magnificent gold cup. But suppose the three cups were quite EMPTY. Would the little prince with his gold’ cup be able to quench his thirst any’ more than the poor boy with his tint cup? No, he would not.

Now the world has a great variety of cups for thirsty souls to drink from, but they are all empty, and therefore, can never satisfy; the pleasures of the world are empty pleasures, and “Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again.” But Jesus satisfies the longing soul, and “filleth the hungry soul with goodness.” Psalms 107:9.

A faithful evangelist years ago was asked if he would come to a big city and hold some meetings for “the miserably poor.”

“Yes,” he replied, “and for the miserably rich too.”

As pleasures and amusement cannot satisfy any child’s soul and having great riches cannot quench soul-thirst, neither can education and great accomplishments they are all empty cups, and if you try to drink from them, you must of course be bitterly disappointed.

But the Lord Jesus will never disappoint you, and if you come to Him just as you are in your sins, He will put those sins all away, He will make you satisfied and happy forever.

“O satisfy us early with Thy mercy; that we may rejoice and be glad all our days.” Psalms 90:14.

“Walk as children of light.”

— Ephesians 5:8

ML-08/17/1969

Saved in Jail

WHILE preaching in a jail in Scotland once, Richard Weaver addressed a group of eighty women prisoners gathered to hear him. He felt that they had had plenty of harsh words shouted at them, so he spoke of the love of God and sang the lovely hymn, “Rest for the Weary.” Then those who desired to speak with him were asked to put the numbers assigned to them as prisoners outside their doors. In this way, he had the privilege of dealing with over thirty anxious inquirers.

Just as he was about to leave the prison, the kind-hearted governor pointed to one of the cells and said, “In that cell is the worst character in all the prison. I have had to put her on low diet and keep her in chains, but I cannot break her will. She has not put out her number, but I wish you would pay her a visit also.”

The cell door was open. On the three-legged stool in the center of her cell sat the poor wretched prisoner. Putting his hand on her shoulder, Mr. Weaver said in all the love of his heart, “The Lord loves you.”

“No, He doesn’t,” was her reply. “I am too bad for God to love.”

“But,” said the evangelist, “God commendeth His love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.”

He stayed a while talking with her, and then she dropped on her knees and uttered the cry, “Thank God, someone loves me!”

Mr. Weaver prayed with her and then left the cell. The next day as he was preaching in another part of the prison, a letter was put into his hand with the request that it be read to the other women. It was from the woman whom he had visited in her cell the day before, and in the letter she testified how that she had found the Lord. He had had mercy on her and pardoned her sins. As soon as Mr. Weaver read out the name of the writer, several cried out, “If God can save her, He can save me.”

After that, several put out their numbers as a sign that they wanted to be spoken to also, and he went from cell to cell telling of the wonderful salvation that is in Jesus. He said, “The stories they told of the way in which they had been entangled in sin and crime were so heart-rending that I left the prison humbled at the remembrance that it was only through the grace of God that my lot was different from theirs.”

What would our fields bring forth for us without the gifts He sends, Without the sunshine and the rain on which our bread depends, His tittle water brooks to flow, His birds to be our friends.

Praise God from Whom all blessings flow,

Praise Him all creatures here below;

Alleluya! Alleluya!

Praise Him above, ye heavenly host,

Praise Father, Son and Holy Ghost,

Alleluya! Alleluya!

Alleluya! Alleluya! Alleluya!

Consider the wondrous works of God

Job 37:14

O taste and see that the Lord is good

Psalms 34:8

ML-08/17/1969

The Story of Moses, the Man of God

Exodus 15.24,25

THE FIRST three days of the wilderness journey the people could find no water. When they came to Marah they could not drink its waters because they were bitter.

“And the people murmured against Moses, saying, What shall we drink?” Alas, the song of praise was changed into the murmurings of Israel! And yet how often this is so with ourselves as believers—now filled with praise, then soon after the flesh complains and murmurs because of the trials of the wilderness.

Surely murmuring has never made bitter water sweet, and never will. But Moses did not murmur. He asked the Lord what to do, and He gave him a wonderful answer. We will never get the blessing by murmuring or by turning away from the Lord. We must turn to Him.

The Lord showed Moses a tree, and then He showed him how to use that tree to make the waters sweet. That tree for us is the cross of Christ. We learn a new use for it now. It had once cleansed us from our sins, and there too our sinful selves had disappeared in redeeming love. God saw us by it “dead with Christ.” But now we place that cross by faith in the bitter waters, and what happens? We ourselves are gone! The old man in us, the flesh, that which would shrink from the trial or resent the bitter circumstance, was crucified there. We learn to hold ourselves as dead; our evil nature is suppressed, leaving the new man free to act. We bow to the lesson as part of God’s training. We look up; we rejoice; we glory in the sorrow. The tribulation works patience; impatience vanishes; the waters are made sweet. We learn the meaning of the Lord’s words — “My peace I give unto you” — we find that rest of spirit under the yoke of Christ.

“Death’s bitter waters met our thirst,

Thy cross has made them sweet."

The Apostle could say: “God forbid that I should glory, save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by whom the world is crucified unto me, and I unto the world.” Galatians 6:14, The cross ever reminds us also of the bitterness of death that was borne by Another, that all who believe in Him may know the joys of drinking that “living water” and find it sweet and life-giving. God’s invitation is: “Let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” Revelation 22:17.

It was only when Moses had cast the tree into the waters that they became sweet. The act of faith is required. It would not suffice merely to know that the tree could sweeten the water. Faith had to act upon it. And, dear reader, it is not sufficient for you only to know that there is a Saviour who died on the cross. You must lay hold of God’s truth concerning Him and find Him the Giver of life.

Memory Verse “IF WE CONFESS OUR SINS, HE IS FAITHFUL AND JUST TO FORGIVE US OUR SINS, AND TO CLEANSE US FROM ALL UNRIGHTEOUSNESS.” 1 John 1:9.

ML-08/17/1969

A Queer Question

A LAWYER named Mr. Bartlett was on his way to work, and nearing his office he stopped in the street to get a paper. Charlie, the paper boy, was no stranger to him, but this morning he was unusually silent. The lawyer missed his bright remarks, and began to joke with him, when suddenly the boy looked up in his face, and said: “Mr. Bartlett, do you love God?”

The lawyer was honest and upright, a good-living man, but he was not a Christian. “Why do you ask me that, Charlie?” he asked.

“Well, I’ll tell you, sir,” replied the paper boy. “Me mother an’ me’s got to get out; for the place we live in’ll be tore down pretty soon, an’ a fellow like me can’t pay much rent. Mother does all she can, but you see there’s three of us, an’ me granother’s lame. I dunno what to do. Yesterday I heard two men talkin', and one of ’em said God would help anybody that love Him if they’d tell Him they were in trouble. I made up my mind I’d lay for somebody that knew Him well enough to ask Him.”

Mr. Bartlett was embarrassed. All he could say to the threadbare boy was that he had better ask someone else. He thrust a half-dollar into the boy’s hand and hurried away.

But all that day he found his thoughts reverting to the boy and his strange question. “A fine position for an educated man in a Christian country!” he said to himself. “Struck dumb by an ignorant street Arab! I could not answer his question! Why not?”

That evening Mr. Bartlett went, for the first time in many years, to a prayer meeting, and told the whole story without sparing himself. From that day life had a new meaning for him, for he received into his heart the Saviour, the Lord Jesus, God’s gift to sinners. For “the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23. “And we have seen and do testify that the Father sent the Son to be the Saviour of the world.” 1 John 4:14. “He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.” 1 John 5:12.

Such an incident could not be allowed to end there. The boy was helped to better living quarters, and to work, which enabled him to pride better for his “family.” At last he had found someone who loved God: and in time he learned to love Him himself, for Charlie accepted the Lord Jesus as his Saviour too.

May it be so with our dear reader as it was with the well-to-do lawyer and the poor paper boy of our story. Both found Christ as their Saviour and started on their way home to heaven.

ML-08/24/1969

All Hail the Power of Jesus' Name

GEORGE GRENFELL was a missionary explorer on the Congo in Africa. One time while traveling along the Lomami River, which runs into the Congo, at one of the landing-places he was welcomed by a choir of pupils from the mission schools with their teachers singing the hymn, “All hail the power of Jesus’ name.”

The strains of the music floated across the water before the engines of the little vessel had stopped. As Grenfell listened, his heart was filled with gratitude to God, that these native Africans redeemed by the blood of Christ were now singing “Crown Him Lord of all.” Grenfell knew what scenes of terrible cruelty had been enacted on the banks of this very river before the gospel light had come. He had himself seen there the devastation and the smoking ruins left by the Arab slave-traders. But now better days had come.

Do you wonder that the missionary, thrilled with emotion, joined with these converted Africans in singing that wonderful coronation hymn?

Oh that every one of our dear readers, through grace might be stirred as Grenfell was, and in spirit join in the song of praise to Christ: “Crown Him Lord of all.” “And they sung a new song, saying, Thou art worthy... and hast redeemed us to God by Thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation.” Revelation 5:9.

ML-08/24/1969

Joanne's Disobedience

MOTHER HAD just baked batch of chocolate chip cookies and there they were all spread out on the table to cool. Just then little Joanne came in from play and saw all the cookies. My, they smelled good and how tempting they looked!

Mother had gone upstairs, so Joanne called up: “Mother, may I have a cookie?”

“Yes,” said Mother, “you may have one.”

It tasted scrumptious. Then Joanne called out again, “Mother, may I have two cookies?”

“Yes,” said Mother, “but that’s all. I don’t want you to spoil your appetite.”

So Joanne took another cookie, and as she went outside she thought “Some of my friends may come along and will want me to share my cookies with them. I’ll take a few more along with me.” So Joanne went back and got several more, and then sat down on the front porch But no one else came along, and so it came about that Joanne ate all the cookies herself.

But poor Joanne’s pleasure was short-lived. Scripture tells us, “Stolen waters are sweet, and bread eaten in secret is pleasant.” Proverbs 9:17 Joanne knew that she had disobeyed her mother and she ought to have gone right away and confessed to her mother what she had done. But this she didn’t do, and it was a sac little girl that played by herself or the porch all afternoon.

Then just before supper Joanne summoned up the courage to go and tell her mother. She said, “Mother, I disobeyed you this afternoon. You told me I could have two cookies, but I took several more, and I’m very sorry, Mother. Won’t you forgive me?”

Mother was sorry that her little daughter had disobeyed her, but she was glad Joanne had confessed her wrong. Mother told her that she forgave her, but she also told her that when we sin, we sin against the Lord, so Joanne must go and tell the Lord Jesus that she was sorry for what she had done. Disobedience is sin, and the Lord Jesus had to die in order to put that sin away.

Joanne then went away and got down on her knees and confessed to the Lord Jesus that she had been naughty, and that she had sinned against Him. After she had it all out with the Lord, she felt the burden lifted from her heart. Little Joanne was a happier and wiser little girl from then on.

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9.

ML-08/24/1969

Take Him at His Word

A YOUNG college student sat under the gospel one night and was so much impressed that he decided for Christ. Leaving the meeting, he said to me, “If I have any difficulty, may I call and see you, Christian?”

“Certainly,” I replied.

The next morning he called and said, “I decided too hastily last night. I have been looking for some token that I am saved, but cannot find any.”

“Didn’t I tell you that you could see me this morning?” I asked him— “Yes,” he said.

“Well, why didn’t you ask for my watch as a token that I would keep my word? Why should you look for a token from God—can’t you take Him at His Word?”

“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.

Memory Verse “VERILY, VERILY, I SAY UNTO YOU, HE THAT BELIEVETH ON ME HATH EVERLASTING LIFE.” John 6:47.

ML-08/24/1969

The Story of Moses, the Man of God

Exodus 15:26,27

IN A BRIEF three days’ time the Lord had introduced His people to experiences they would meet with all along the way to Canaan. They were compelled to face the realities of the desert and know that it was not a permanent abiding place. Like Christians now, they were to press ever onward toward the promised land. They could not tarry along the way.

And now follows a most important principle that applies to the walk of the believer; namely that blessing is dependent on obedience. The blessing of the believer is dependent on his walk. The Lord said: “If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which is right in His sight, and wilt give ear to His commandments, and keep all His statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the LORD that healeth thee.” verse 26. How little it was to ask of a people on whom He had expended such abounding care and goodness! Alas, how poorly they answered to these simple requests, but failed grievously, and became subject to all those terrible diseases from which the Egyptians suffered. When the Lord Jesus came to earth He healed many of their diseases, but they rejected Him, and now Israel’s blessing must wait the coming day.

Christians now have no promise of deliverance from disease, though God does make all things work tether for good to those who love Him (Rom. 8:29); but our blessings are heavenly, and we know that there will be no sickness or death in our eternal home above.

But there is many a Christian who once knew the joy of salvation but is now without the conscious enjoyment of a single blessing, because’ of a careless walk. And many a one is suffering like the world because of unfaithfulness. On the other hand God delights to come in all His unchanging love and bless one who is seeking to walk in obedience and who rejoices in doing His will.

“And they came to Elim, where were twelve wells of water, and threescore and ten palm trees: and they encamped there by the waters.” verse 27. The waters were not bitter there, and there was plenty for all. And there are Elims too along the Christian’s pathway — resting spots along the way, where the “wells of water” supply abundant refreshment from Him who gives the living water, while the “palm trees” provide food and shelter to the desert travelers on their way home to heaven.

How tender of the Lord to pride such grateful refreshment for His people in the wilderness.

Just as the Lord gave us to drink of the water of life when we came to Him as thirsty sinners, so we can drink again and again each day of our lives. And then in that glory above, we shall find that “pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb.” Revelation 22:1.

The twelve wells of water and seventy palm trees make us think of how the Lord sent out the twelve (Luke 9) and the seventy (Luke 10). He has His faithful servants ministering the word of life to their fellow-men today. His Word says: “And we beseech you, brethren, to know them which labor among you, and are over you in the Lord, and admonish you; and to esteem them very highly in love for their work’s sake.” 1 Thessalonians 5:12,13.

ML-08/24/1969

Neesima

IN 1843 there was born in Japan a boy by the name of Neesima. This was ten years before Commodore Perry opened up Japan to trade with the outside world. When Neesima was born, the Japanese had nothing to do with foreigners. It was a capital crime for a Japanese to leave his own country. Neesima, however, had a great aim. It was to acquire Western learning, and so he made his way to one of the ports, Hako-date, where he hoped he might board an English or American boat and so escape to America.

He longed not only for Western learning, but for knowledge of God, because he had lost faith in his family gods which stood on the shelf in his home. He noticed that they never touched the food that was placed before them. One day he got hold of a Bible in the Chinese language and was greatly struck by the first verse of the first chapter of Genesis: “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.”

This statement answered some of the questions that had been in Neesima’s mind. God was the Creator, and from that time on he used to pray, “Please let me reach my aim.”

On reaching Hakodate, he made arrangements with the captain of an American schooner for passage to Shanghai. He ran a great risk, for if detected it meant certain death. God, however, watched over him and enabled him to escape. This was on July 18, 1864. After he reached Shanghai, Neesima found another American vessel, the Wild Rover, bound for Boston, and persuaded the captain to employ him as his personal servant. It was a year before the schooner reached its destination.

While they were in Hong Kong, Neesima discovered a Chinese New Testament in a book store, and he determined to have it. He had no money, so he decided to part with his sword which he always wore. He read the book day and night and found in it answers to many questions which had perplexed his mind.

The verse we have already quoted, Genesis 1:1, and John 3:16 were the two that led Neesima to become a Christian.

“In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” Genesis 1:1.

“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.

ML-08/31/1969

Crooked Sentences

WHILE TALKING to a schoolboy one day about a problem he had, I urged him to pray to God about it. “Do write a prayer out for me about that,” said he; “it is not mentioned in any of my prayer books, and I don’t know how to word a prayer unless it is written out or printed.”

I told him of a sailor who had been a very bad fellow, but God had changed his heart, and he became true and loyal servant of the Lord Jesus. Speaking of his difficulties the time of his conversion, the sailor said: “I tried to pray, and could only put together a few crooked sentences, but the Lord Jesus took and straightened them all out.”

My schoolboy friend seized the idea at once and said, “Anyway, I can pray the ‘crooked sentences,’ so I’ll be content to begin with them at first.”

I know that boy has never repented of his decision to use his own words in prayer. He now knows what it is, like Hannah, to “pour out his soul before the Lord,” and can say with Jonah, “My prayer came in unto Thee, into Thine holy temple!’

“The Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.

“And He that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because He maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.” Romans 8:26,27.

Happy to live for Jesus,

Happy His Name to bear;

Happy because He saves me,

Happy within His care.

Happy to live to Jesus,

Happy to keep from sin;

Happy because obedient,

Happy some soul to win.

Happy to live with Jesus,

One day in Heavenly place;

Happy to sing His praises,

Happy to see His face.

Stand fast in the faith

1 Corinthians 16:13

ML-08/31/1969

One of Jesus' Lambs

IN THE HOUSE next to Donald’s home there lived a family with several children. One of them was a little girl called Joy. She was very ill, and the doctors could do nothing to make her better. Donald and his sister often went in next door to talk to Joy, so that she would not feel so lonely when her brothers and sisters played outside.

Joy’s little bed had been put close to the window, so that as she lay there, she could look out and see the trees and the green fields. One morning, she noticed that there were some little lambs in the field nearest to her house.

“Mother,” she said, “those lambs belong to Farmer Brown.”

“Yes, dear,” answered Mother. “So they do.”

“And I belong to Jesus,” said Joy. “I am one of His little lambs.”

Only a few days later, the Good Shepherd took His little lamb to be forever with Himself. What a comfort it was to her parents to know that their little girl had come to know the Lord in this way before she died!

When Donald was told what Joy had said, it made a great impression on him, because at that time, he could not have said with any ceainty that he belonged to Jesus. He often heard how the Good Shepherd laid down His life for the sheep (John 10:11,15) when He died on the Cross; and that the Lord Jesus had risen again from the dead (John 10:17; Heb. 13:20) and now lives in Heaven, a glorious Saviour for all who put their trust in Him. Yet he doubted that he really belonged to Jesus, and the words of his little friend set him longing that he, too, might know the Lord Jesus as his own Shepherd.

However, as time went on, Donald’s longing was answered, for he found peace and joy in believing in Jesus as his Saviour. As he grew older, he delighted to tell others about Him and to show them how they, too, might have their sins forgiven by trusting in His finished work on the Cross. He would tell, too, of how the Good Shepherd cares for His sheep all through their lives here, feeding and guiding them as they follow Him, until He takes them to His own glory, forever.

ML-08/31/1969

"He's Got 'Em Both!"

ASAILOR, who had only a short time before come to know the Lord Jesus as his Saviour and friend, lay on his deathbed. Sitting by his bedside, one repeated to him the beautiful words, “I, the Lord thy God, will hold thy right hand.” Isaiah 41:13.

“He’s got ’em both!” responded the feeble voice, in a tone of quiet, restful confidence. His faithful friend, his Lord and Saviour, did not forsake him at the end, but stood by him to the last. And then He took him home to His own presence, where there is “fullness of joy,” and where there are “pleasures forevermore.” Is not such a Friend worth having, dear reader?

Memory Verse “HE THAT BELIEVETH... SHALL BE SAVED: BUT HE THAT BELIEVETH NOT SHALL BE DAMNED.” Mark 16:16.

ML-08/31/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 16:1-3

“AND THEY took their journey from Elim, and all the congregation of the children of Israel came unto the wilderness of Sin, which is between Elim and Sinai, on the fifteenth day of the second month after their departing out of Egypt.” Elim had been a welcome resting place, but the children of Israel were pilgrims, and so they were to travel on, and not to rest.

Now they are in the Wilderness of Sin, but, sad to relate, they are not going on in the joy of God’s salvation, but are complaining about their pilgrim fare. “And the whole congregation... murmured against Moses and Aaron in the wilderness: and the children of Israel said unto them, Would to God we had died by the hand of the Lord in the land of Egypt, when we sat by the fleshpots, and when we did eat bread to the full: for ye have brought us forth into this wilderness, to kill this whole assembly with hunger.”

Alas, many of the Israelites did not have real faith, and they found it a hard path. The Christian’s path is one of faith, and although the unbeliever may start in it outwardly, he can never continue in it. For a time he may be carried along by others, but he will hanker after, and want to get back to, the world. Eventually he will go back too (2 Peter 2:22). A true child of God is often tried by the hardships of the way, but he finds his resources in God, and rejoices in the provision God makes for him day by day.

Do not the murmurings of the children of Israel tell of our own poor hearts’ complaints as Christians, when we allow the old nature to assert itself? How forgetful we can be of the bitter bondage with which we were once connected with sinners and of the true character the “fleshpots of Egypt.”

But the Lord has His object in lowing us to hunger. It is to we us from the fleshpots of Egypt, a to attract us to Himself — to tea us that true satisfaction can found only in Himself and His word, God had something far better for the people than all the food and treasures of Egypt. They were His people, and He wanted them for Himself that He might dwell among them. He was bringing them to Canaan, a land flowing with milk and honey, and He must wean them from Egypt. The food of Egypt was entirely different from that of Canaan. The onions and the garlic of Egypt (speaking of earthly things) would not mix with the grapes of Eshcol (heavenly things)... Nor will the pleasures of this world mix with our heavenly joys. The “fleshpots” which satisfy the man of the world, are very different from the “manna” (Christ) which nourishes and satisfies the new life of the Christian.

Israel’s complaint here was addressed to Moses and Aaron, but Moses replied to them, “Your murmurings are not against us, but against the Lord.” verse 8. What a trial it must have been to this man of God, yet he did not reprove them all for it, but bore it all with meekness and patience. In this He reminds us of the One whom he portrayed whose soul “was grieved for the miry of Israel” and who “in His love and in His pity... bare them, and carried them all the days of old.” Isaiah 63:9.

ML-08/31/1969

The Brave Sailor

MANY YEARS AGO an English warship while cruising in southern waters spied another vessel which the captain suspected to be a slaver. The man-o-war gave chase and as they drew closer, sure enough they saw the other ship was loaded with slaves. The captain and crew determined to set free their poor black brethren destined to be sold into slavery.

Soon the British ship was alongside, and the English tars were boarding the slaver. One by one the poor slaves were set free and transferred to the man-o-war. How they rejoiced in their new freedom, and how grateful they were to their liberators.

In the hasty transfer, amid the rough seas, one poor African boy fell overboard. As he struggled in the waves, another foe appeared. Great sharks that had followed the slave ship closed around him. Seeing his terror, a brave British sailor grasped his knife and leaped overboard. His brother tars looked on with dismay, and cried: “The sharks! He can’t live!”

But see! He fights the sharks with his knife, and they retreat as he holds the boy up with his strong arm. Soon both the boy and his brave rescuer are hauled aboard on a rope ladder and are safe. How they cheered their gallant comrade.

Alas for the boy for whom the sailor risked his life. A shark had so injured him that his frail life quickly ebbed away, and he died the next day.

Now reader, think of the love of Jesus for those whose guilt He bore — not only slaves, but His enemies (Rom. 5:10). What waves and billows rolled over that blessed Son of God in that awful strife at Calvary. What bitter anguish filled His sinless soul.

“His life, His blood, He meekly, freely gave, sinners like you and me from wrath and hell to save.” Unsaved friend, confess your sins, believe on Jesus the Lamb of God and know the full atoning virtues of His death. Then proclaim His praise abroad — a sinner saved by grace a brand plucked from the fire.

ML-09/07/1969

FLEE FROM THE WRATH TO COME

IT WAS a large sheet, with only six words on it, painted in plain blue and red letters. It hung for many years in a little room where boys and girls met on Sunday afternoons to hear of Jesus and His love, and where meetings were also held for older people in the evenings. It was colored by a little boy who loved the Lord, and desired to do something to lead others to Him. He was too young to be a teacher, and the thought crossed his mind that he might spend a few of the winter evenings coloring this text for the meeting-room, and perhaps it might be the means of arousing some little one to think. After he had finished it, he asked permission to put it up on the wall. Many an eye rested on it, and it was known that God blessed the words of that Cored Text to make more than one think about the great eternity, and “the wrath to come.”

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

Memory Verse “THE HARVEST IS PAST, THE SUMMER IS ENDED, AND WE ARE NOT SAVED.”

Jeremiah 8:20.

ML-09/07/1969

An Indian Defends the Bible

YEARS AGO when Mormon missionaries went to a village Ontario, Canada, with the object of making converts, they held a meeting in which they belittled the Bible. Instead they told how the “book Mormon” had been dug up out the ground by Joseph Smith, who claimed it was a revelation from God much superior to the Bible. After the Mormon speaker finished, he asked if anyone had anything to say. As no white man arose to defend the Bible, John Sunday, a converted Indian, rose and gave this testimony “A great many winters ago, the Great Spirit gave his good Book the Bible, to white man over the great waters. He took it and read it, and it made his heart all over glad. By and by white man came over to this country, and brought good Boot with him. He gave it to poor Indian. He hear it, and understand it, and it make his heart very glad too. But’ when the Great Spirit gave his good Book to the white man, the Evil spirit try to make a book too, and he try to make it like the Great Spirit made His, but he could not and then he got so ashamed of it that he go in the woods, and dig; hole in the ground, and there he hide his book. After it lie there for many winters, Joe Smith go and dig it up. This is the book this preacher talk about. I hold fast to good old Bible which made my heart so happy. I have nothing to do with devil’s book.”

This quaint speech ended the Mormon’s career in that neighborhood.

ML-09/07/1969

The Young People's Class: Joshua

1. Who was Rahab permitted to bring into the shelter of her house to be saved from the destruction of Jericho? Josh.

2. What examples are found in Scripture showing that salvation is for all within a household? Acts 11 and Acts 16.

3. Did Rahab display the scarlet line (which testified of her faith) sooner or later than she was bidden? Joshua 2.

4. What are we encouraged to do concerning the hope set before us? Hebrews 6.

5. What place of honor is associated with Rahab (Rachab)? Matthew 1.

6. When the children of Israel prepared to pass over Jordan, what place of preeminence was given to the Ark of the Covenant? Joshua 3.

7. Who is to have the preeminence in all things in our lives? Colossians 1.

ML-09/07/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 16:4-10

“HEN SAID the LORD unto I Moses, Behold, I will rain bread from heaven for you; and the people shall go out and gather a certain rate every day, that I may prove them, whether they will walk in My law, or no.” The people in their hunger could think of nothing better than what they had eaten in Egypt — the leeks, the cucumbers, the onions and the garlic — all foods of the ground in Egypt; but now God provided “bread from heaven.” What a contrast this was! God delights to display His bright character of grace and mercy, and He is able “to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think.”

The bread from heaven brought a new responsibility for through it God was to prove whether they would walk in His law or not. This new food was of a different character altogether to what they had known. It was nourishment provided by God Himself, for His redeemed people while in the wilderness. The manna speaks to us of Christ as the Bread of God that came down from heaven (John 6:33). Only the children of Israel, who were a redeemed people, could eat of the manna. So now, only true children of God can feed upon Christ in His life down here. That is why the Lord Jesus said, “Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink His blood, ye have no life in you.” John 6:53. We could never be associated with Christ except through His death.

We hear a great deal today about the life and teachings of Christ from unsaved men. The first thing a sinner needs to learn is that he is lost in his sins, and that the Lord Jesus had to die to save him. This is what it means by eating His flesh drinking His blood. It is the death of Christ appropriated to one’s personal need. Then when we had learned that the death of Christ had met all of God’s holy claims against sin, when we see that we are in new standing “in Christ” before God, then we can enjoy thoughts Christ in His perfect life as Man here below.

To enjoy this new Bread which came from God Himself, required a new appetite. And it was to be the proof of these people, whether they would accept and thrive on it. So now, Christ is the wilderness food for His people, and we may well search out our own hearts as to whether our satisfaction lies in so blest a portion as Himself, or whether we are turning back to the things of this judged world for satisfaction.

“And Moses spake unto Aaron, Say unto all the congregation of the children of Israel, Come near before the LORD: for He hath heard your murmurings. And it came to pass, as Aaron spake unto the whole congregation of the children of Israel, that they looked toward the wilderness, and, behold, the glory of the LORD appeared in the cloud.”

The people in their unbelief had turned back to Egypt, but as they gathered to hear this message they saw the glory of the Lord appear in the cloud “toward the wilderness.” The path in which the Lord was leading them on to Canaan’s rest lay through the wilderness. He would journey with them. What a grand object for their eyes to rest upon all along the way — the glory of the Lord. How much there was then in this to encourage their failing hearts and remove the fear and uncertainties of the unproved way that stretched before them. The pathway to our heavenly rest lies through this wilderness world.

ML-09/07/1969

How a Witch Doctor Was Put Out of Business

IN AFRICA, years ago, an operation for appendicitis was performed in a native village under very unusual circumstances with far-reaching effects. The village had never been visited by a missionary before, but the fame of Dr. Dye, a medical missionary, had gone bore him. Arriving at the village, Dr. Dye found the natives very much excited at his coming. They brought to him a man who was very sick. After examining him, the doctor found that he was suffering from acute appendicitis. He told the natives that an operation would be necessary and described to them just what he would do. They were quite wonder-struck when he told them he would have to cut open the sick man’s body, but since they thought the patient would die anyway, they agreed to let him go ahead.

The missionary arranged a makeshift operating table of poles and branches in a little hollow, and the people gathered by the hundreds on the sides of the ravine to watch. He gave the anesthetic, and as the sick man passed into unconsciousness the people raised the shout, “The man is dead!” Then they watched the skillful physician as he made the incision, removed the appendix, and sewed up the wound. A murmur passed through the crowd: “He has killed the man — he has cut him open, taken his insides out, and sewed him up. Now can he bring him back to life?”

Sure enough, a little later, the patient revived, opened his eyes, and looked around. The natives were wonderfully excited. To them it was a miracle indeed. They sent messengers everywhere proclaiming, “Come and hear the message of the white man, for he speaks with authority. He has killed a man, cut him open, removed his insides, sewed him up again, and brought him back to life.”

Up to that time, the people had lived in fear of the witch doctor who sought to oppose the efforts of the missionary to preach the gospel there. But that operation overthrew the power of the witch doctor, and a Christian mission was begun among that tribe. The poor natives, superstitious and in darkness, heard the wonderful story of Jesus who came as “the light of the world,” so that those who would follow Him should not walk in darkness but might have the light of life (John 8:12).

It doesn’t matter what color we are — white, black, red, or yellow — or to what race we belong, if we do not have Christ, we are as dark in our souls as those poor Africans.

“For there is no difference: For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” Romans 3:22,23.

“God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all.” 1 John 1:5.

The Lord Jesus said: “I am the light of the world: He that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” John 8:12.

ML-09/14/1969

Persecution for Christ

A MISSIONARY went down to South America some years ago. He had a love for souls, and he longed to tell them of the Saviour and of His power to save them from sin and judgment to come—to make them fit for heaven instead.

He could not speak their language and longed for the day when he could talk to them in their own tongue. All the while, he sensed their common hatred for those who brought the Gospel.

One day, a poor man lay at death’s door in a hotel, sick with a dread disease. No one cared or went near him. However, the missionary we to the sick man and patiently nursed him back to health. From then an, he felt people had a little respect for him.

Souls were saved in that city, and there was violent persecution of the Christians at times.

Some years ago a crowd gathered around a home where a few believers had gathered for a gospel meeting. They intended to break up the gathering. The leader seized a you Christian boy named David and asked him: “Do you have eternal life?”

The boy answered unwaveringly, “Yes, I’m sure I have eternal life,”

They lifted him high in the air and jeered at him, saying, “Here’s one who says he has eternal life!” Then one struck the boy on the back of the head. David’s response to the angry mob was another faithful confession: “I know I am saved.”

Dear boy, he was not ashamed of Christ. Are you?

“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.

“Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.” 2 Timothy 3:12.

Jesus the Saviour is of boys and girls,

None other ever could save boys and girls,

He will wash their sins away,

He will keep them day by day,

He will wash their sins away,

He will keep them day by day, His boys and girls.

Jesus first, Jesus last, and Jesus all along,

In our work, in our play, and in our song;

In the darkness, in the light,

Peaceful times, or in the fight,

I am safe and all is right;

For Jesus never, never fails,

For Jesus never fails.

I the Lord will hear them Isaiah 41:17

O COME, LET US SING UNTO THE LORD. Psalms 95:1.

ML-09/14/1969

I'm Third

ABOVE THE clock on the wall of a Sunday school room hung an old motto with these words, “I’m THIRD.” A preacher had come there one evening to address a group of children and young people. It was raining and he had arrived early so that only he and the caretaker were present. Seeing the motto on the wall, he asked the caretaker what it meant. The caretaker, looking at the clock, shook his head, and replied: “I have read those words a hundred times, and often I have dusted them off, but I don’t know what they mean.” Then suddenly he remarked, “I think my daughter Sylvia knows.”

Off he went down stairs, and shortly after he returned, puffing as he came up the steps. “Sylvia says the words mean what they say—'I’m Third',” he said. “It’s the motto of the young people—Jesus First; others Second; and I’m Third.”

“Why, of course!” said the preacher.

Soon after, the door opened and a group of children and young people trouped in, undaunted by the rain outside. During the course of the meeting they sang a hymn with the words:

“Be not selfish in your greed;

Pass it on!

Look upon another’s need;

Pass it on!”

The guest speaker for that evening learned that the children had been faithful in attendance at the Sunday school, and many had taken an interest in helping out old people, sick people, and in running errands for them. When they left to go home it was still pouring rain and he noticed how that the children were eager to share their raincoats and umbrellas with one another.

When the preacher got home that night he said to his wife: “How different it would be if everyone adopted “I’m Third” as their motto for life—putting the Lord Jesus first, then others second, and ourselves last, instead of putting self first.”

This is the way to true happiness, dear boys and girls. Put the Lord Jesus first; confess Him as your Lord and Saviour; then seek to please Him in everything. Put others send, and ourselves last. This spells J-O-Y.

“Jesus, and Others, and You,

What a wonderful way to spell J-O-Y!

Jesus, and Others, and You,

In the heart of each girl and boy.

J is for Jesus, for He has first place;

O is for Others, of every race;

Y is for You, and whatever you do,

Put yourself in the very last place!”

Memory Verse “IF ANY MAN BE IN CHRIST, HE IS A NEW CREATURE: OLD THINGS ARE PASSED AWAY: BEHOLD, ALL THINGS ARE BECOME NEW.” 2 Corinthians 5:17.

ML-09/14/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 16:11-21

“AND THE LORD spake unto Moses, saying, I have heard the murmurings of the children of Israel: speak unto them, saying, At even ye shall eat flesh, and in the morning ye shall be filled with bread; and ye shall know that I am the LORD your God.”

God would have His people know that He could indeed feed so great a multitude in the barren wilderness, and so He sent that very evening innumerable quails, covering the entire camp, and they ate of these until they were filled. The quails have no special teaching connected with them; they were given to satisfy the desire of the people, but brought no blessing. The people longed again for the fleshpots of Egypt, and God did send them flesh. “He gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul.” Psalms 106:15. God may hear the cry of His people, even in their unbelief, and grant them their desire, but for discipline rather than for present blessing. Thus many a believer, forgetting his true portion in Christ, has desired the things of the world, and God has allowed him to attain his object. But the result has been barrenness of soul, and sorrow in the end.

But the manna God was to pride in the morning, was a striking type of the Lord Jesus. The quails were only sent on two occasions, whereas the manna was to be their daily food — God sent it down for them each morning day by day.

“And in the morning the dew lay round about the host. And when the dew that lay was gone up, behold, upon the face of the wilderness there lay a small round thing, as small as the hoar frost on the ground. And... they said one another, It is manna: for they not what it was. And Moses said unto them, This is the bread which the LORD has given you to eat.”

“And the children of Israel d’ so, and gathered, some more, so less. And... he that gathered inn had nothing over, and he that gathered little had no lack; they gathered every man according to his eating.” We all have as much of Christ as we desire — no more, and no less. “And Moses said, Let no man leave of it till the morning. Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto Moses; but some of them left of it until the morning, and it bred worms, and stank: and Moses was wroth with them. And they gathered it every morning, every man according to his eating: and when the sun waxed hot, it melted.”

The manna had to be gathered, early or it melted away with the heat of the sun. No doubt there is a lesson for us in this. The way we can “gather the manna” now is by reading the Word of God, which brings Christ before us, and therefore we ought to read it every morning. If we put it off until the cares of the day overtake us, like the ring sun in the wilderness, we shall find that it is too late, and we shall not get the same good from it. It will have “melted away.”

Furthermore we cannot expect to read enough of the Word of God today to last for tomorrow as well. We need a fresh portion each day. When some of the children of Israel thought to keep some of the manna over until the next day they found it spoiled and offensive to all. God will have Christ enjoyed and proclaimed in all the freshness of the Spirit. How unpleasant to listen to one speaking about truth learned some time ago but which he is not in the good of at the present time.

ML-09/14/1969

Honor the Son

THERE ONCE lived a very wealthy man who had an only son. This man dearly loved his boy who in turn both loved and honored his father. But one day, to his father’s immense grief, the boy died. The fond parent never forgot his son. At last the old man himself passed away.

When they came to settle the estate no trace could be found of the old man’s will. In vain they searched, until at last the authorities ordered that the property should be sold and his estate settled according to law.

At the auction one of the articles put up for sale was a portrait of the boy who had died. The picture had little or no value in the eyes of most present, but among the bidders was an old woman who had nursed the rich man’s son when he was a child.

For a very small sum she bought the picture, glad to have this reminder of one she had loved and cared for years before.

One day, while cleaning and repairing the frame, the old lady discovered at the back of the picture a document which turned out to be the old man’s will. He had left all of his property to anybody who loved his son well enough to buy his portrait at the sale. The old lady became rich overnight.

So it is, dear reader, that God looks upon the boy or girl, the man or woman, who loves His Son. There is nothing too good, too great, too wonderful, for the one who loves and hors the Son of God. He or she can sing:

“The Father’s face of radiant grace

Now shines in love on me.”

A nice character, a good life, good deeds, can never purchase God’s forgiveness. But His heart overflows in lavish kindness to the one who appreciates and trusts His Son.

The Lord Jesus honored His Father perfectly in His life, and then went on to honor Him in His death. God will ever put honor upon the work of His Son. He will bless every soul who will put his trust in Jesus.

He is waiting to bless you, dear young reader.

“The Father loveth the Son, and hath given all things into His hand. He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth not the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” John 3:35,36.

ML-09/21/1969

"He Always Prays!"

SOME TIME AGO, I had the privilege of riding from New York to Albany on the engine of the Eire State Express. The engineer was a little bronzed weather-beaten man of about fifty. I showed him my card and without a word he pointed me to the fireman’s seat in the cab. Then climbing into his own seat he waited for the conductor’s signal to start. Looking back along the line of coaches, I saw the conductor’s hand raised aloft. Instantly the engineer turned, he pulled a lever and we were off.

The telegraph poles sped past, and we rolled through cities, towns, villages, across bridges, through tunnels, or glided smoothly over gently rolling countryside at more than a mile a minute. The little man at the throttle gazed straight ahead of the two lines of glistening steel — one hand on the throttle the other ready to grasp the brake. He spoke not a word, nor looked at me or the fireman. But I saw that his lips kept moving as he urged the flying monster forward.

Exactly three hours later we reached Albany. I had had the ride of a lifetime in the cab of the engine. The little engineer had left the cab and was tenderly feeling the great bearings on his engine.

I turned to the fireman. “Bill, why does he keep moving his lips then at the lever?” I asked.

“Who? Th’ old man? Why, he always prays on a fast run. Twenty years he’s run on this road with never an accident — the pluckiest man he is.”

Here was the secret of the engineer’s peace and courage. He was a man of prayer.

Prayer nerves the Christian for the fight,

Prayer makes the Christian’s armor bright.

“Men ought always to pray, any not to faint.” Luke 18:1.

“In everything by prayer and sup plication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. Philippians 4:6.

Memory Verse “YE KNOW THAT YE WERE NOT REDEEMED WITH CORRUPTIBLE THINGS, AS SILVER AND GOLD... BUT WITH THE PRECIOUS BLOOD OF CHRIST.” 1 Peter 1:18,19.

ML-09/21/1969

The Echo

A MOTHER took her boy one day to some high hills not far from where they lived. She said to him, “There’s a boy about your size, who lives up in those hills, and I would like you to speak to him.”

The little boy called out, “I don’t like you.”

Back came the answer, “I don’t like you.”

Again he shouted, “I think you are rude.”

At once came the reply, “I think you are rude.”

Then seeing that her little son did not like this, the lady said, “Say something kind instead.”

So this time he called out, “I’ll lend you some of my toys.”

The boy hidden in the hills replied, “I’ll lend you some of my toys.”

Then again, “I would like to come and play with you.”

As quick as thought came back the words, “I would like to come and play with you.”

Long before this, I can hear some of you say, “Why, it was only an echo.”

Right, it was only an echo, but even an echo can teach us some things that may help us all our lives if we will only listen.

Just as there came back to our young friend exactly the words he called out to the hillside, so you are going to get out of your life just what you put into it.

If you live without God and Christ, if you choose to be idle and selfish, with no care or thought for others, that is all in the years to come that life will hold for you.

But if, on the other hand, while still boys and girls, you hear and obey the call of the Lord Jesus, and seek to follow Him, your lives are going to be filled with many kind and noble deeds. Life will hold for you many joys and blessings from God Himself. And not this life only, but a long and blest eternity with the Lord Jesus in the Father’s house above will be your portion forever. Soon the Lord will come to call all His own away from earth to be with Himself. Then everything done for Him down here, every word spoken for Jesus, and every thought of Him, will have its reward in that day.

He will not fail thee, nor forsake thee

Deuteronomy 31:6

Like as a father pities his children,

So the Lord pities all them that are His—

Thinks of their needs, remembers their weakness;

Strong to protect, and tender He is.

Like as a mother comforts her darling,

Answers his crying with kind, loving tone,

Folds in her arms and carries and soothes him—

So the Lord loves and comforts His own.

Yet even they may fail or forsake us,

But as the heavens above us for height,

God’s perfect love, eternal, unchanging,

Never forgets by day or by night.

ML-09/21/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 16:22-30

THE SUBJECT of the manna has an important place all through Scripture. Referring to this very time, David speaks of it in the Psalms: “Yea, they spake against God; they said, Can God furnish a table in the wilderness? Behold... [He] opened the doors of heaven, and rained down manna upon them to eat, and had given them of the corn of heaven. Man did eat angels’ food.” Psalms 78:19-25. God uses such exalted language in speaking of the manna because He has Christ bore Him.

“And it came to pass, that on the sixth day they gathered twice as much bread, two omers for one man: and all the rulers of the congregation came and told Moses. And he said unto them, This is that which the LORD hath said, Tomorrow is the rest of the holy sabbath unto the LORD: bake that which ye will bake today, and seethe that ye will seethe; and that which remaineth over lay up for you to be kept until the morning. And they laid it up till the morning, as Moses bade: and it did not stink, neither was there any worm therein. And Moses said, Eat that today; for today is a sabbath unto the LORD: today ye shall not find it in the field... the LORD hath given you the sabbath, therefore He giveth you on the sixth day the bread of two days; abide ye every man in his place, let no man go out of his place on the seventh day. So the people rested on the seventh day.”

Christians keep the first day of the week instead of the sabbath. This is the Lord’s day, and we should do our gathering of the manna dung the week, so that we can enjoy what we have gathered as we meet around His table on the Lord’s day to remember Him in His death.

The sabbath day, graciously prided for Israel, began at this time. It was the first time in the Bible that the sabbath was given to man to keep. It was one of those institutions through which God would bless His people and prove them “whether they would walk in His law, or no.”

The only previous mention of the sabbath in Scripture was after creation, when God saw that all was in perfection: “and on the seventh day God ended His work which He had made; and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had made. And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it.” Genesis 2:2,3. But when Adam sinned all was spoiled and God could not rest, nor will He until His heavenly people, the Church, are gathered home to heaven, and when Christ is reigning as the King of righteousness over this earth. At the giving of the law later on, the keeping of the sabbath was included in the commandments to God’s people, but here it was presented as a gracious gift “that the LORD hath given.” God always shows us His purposes in grace before responsibility comes in. The children of Israel were now a redeemed people and God could give them rest on the ground of redemption, though in no other way. Afterwards, when they put themselves under law, God gave them the sabbath as His promise of earthly rest if they could keep the law, but they could not. They will, however, enjoy the sabbath of rest during that blest millennial reign of Christ, where it will not be established upon law-keeping, but upon the work of Christ on Calvary (Psa. 132:8; Ezek. 44:24).

ML-09/21/1969

Stolen by a Gypsy

ONE BRIGHT sunny morning little Tommy was playing close to his home on the outskirts of a small country town. His game was suddenly interrupted by the approach of a stranger,—a tall, dark gypsy woman with keen piercing eyes, and a large shawl thrown over her shoulders. Slowly she came toward the little fellow, at the same time drawing from under her shawl some candy which she temptingly offered him.

Most boys and girls like candy and Tommy was no exception. However, he seemed to have forgotten for the moment his mother’s warnings not to accept anything from strangers. His play was soon forgotten as eagerly he reached up for the prize, which was willingly given. Fully occupied with his new pleasure, Tommy did not nice that his other hand had been gently taken by that of the woman and that he was being drawn quickly away from his home and into the country.

On and on they walked, this strange pair. The candy was now gone, Toy was getting tired and frightened and began to cry for his mother. The gypsy woman then carried him in her arms until they reached a large pile of stones, and here they sat down to rest.

In the meantime Tommy had been missed. His anxious mother questioned everyone around as to whether they had seen him. Willing helpers searched in every direction, until at last, a neighbor said the strange pair had been seen on the road leading out of town. The mother’s footsteps fairly flew along the dusty road in the direction given, and finally she overtook the two still sitting on the rock pile.

Do you think Tommy’s mother let him stay there? No, not for a moment! Snatching him up in her arms she hastened home, holding her precious little boy close to her heart all the way. How happy Tommy was to be in his mother’s arms again, yet he did not know how deep were those feelings of love and thankfulness in his mother’s heart now that he was safe again.

This is a true story but it is also a picture of what is happening every day all around us. Like the gypsy woman, Satan is going about tempting whom he can. Like her with her candy, he uses all sorts of bait to suit his purpose, carefully drawing his dupes farther and farther into the paths of sin, until he has them completely under his power, and then they find that they are lost forever.

Love in the heart of Tommy’s mother gave her no rest until she had found him and brought him safely home.

It was love that led the Lord Jesus to come from heaven and to go to Calvary’s cross, and there shed His precious blood to save sinners from the power of Satan and from judgment.

“For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.”

ML-09/28/1969

"I Will Stand Upon My Watch"

JOHN WAS a boy who had been promised a watch for his birthday if he learned to tell the time. He was puzzled when one day he read in his Bible the verse:

“I will stand upon my watch, and set me upon the tower,

And will watch to see

what He will say unto me.”

— Habakkuk 2:1

His mind being full of the watch he had hoped to get, he thought it would not be a good thing for one to stand on it. For a long time he pondered those words, “I will stand upon my watch,” and because he could not grasp their meaning, he asked his father the next morning at breakfast.

His father explained to him that the prophet of God was troubled because of the evil which Satan led people into. The watchman’s duty was to stand at his post on the wall or high tower and watch for danger, and to warn the people when he saw enemies or trouble approaching, John’s father told him God wanted him to be ever on the watch so that he might not be led into doing or saying things displeasing to God. The Lord Jesus told His disciples: “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation.” Matthew 26:41.

Dear young friends, all who confess Jesus as Lord can say with David, His servant, “The Lord is my strength in Whom I will trust, my high tower.” Are you standing upon your watch against the many temptations that are coming your way, and have you learned that you can-not resist the enemy on your own strength? Go up to your bedroom, your high tower, and down upon your knees, listen to the Lord Jesus, and “watch to see what He will say unto (thee).”

I will keep thee! Simply trust Me

All the way!

Through the desert I will guide thee

Day by day.

" Broad is the way that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat.... Strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it " (Matt. 7:13:14).

Memory Verse “EXCEPT YE BE CONVERTED, AND BOME AS LITTLE CHILDREN, YE SHALL NOT ENTER INTO THE KINGDOM OF HEAVEN.” Matthew 18:3.

ML-09/28/1969

Song of the Sparrow

I’m only a little sparrow,

A bird of low degree;

My life is of little value,

But the dear Lord cares for me.

He gives me a coat of feathers—

It is very plain, I know;

Without a speck of crimson;

For it was not made for show.

But it keeps me warm in winter,

And it shields me from the rain;

Were it bordered with gold and purple,

Perhaps it would make me vain.

And now that the spring time cometh,

I will build me a little nest,

With many a chirp of pleasure—

In the spot I like the best.

I have no barn nor storehouse,

I neither sow nor reap;

God gives me a sparrow’s portion,

And never a seed to keep.

If my meat is sometimes scanty,

Close pecking makes it sweet;

I have always enough to feed me—

And life is more than meat.

I know there are many sparrows—

All over the world they are found

But our heavenly Father knoweth

When one of us falls to the ground.

The’ small, we are never forgotten,

The’ weak we are not afraid;

For we know that the dear Lord keepeth

The life of the creatures He made.

I fly thro’ the thickest forest,

I alight on many a spray;

I have no chart nor compass,

But I never lose my way.

I just fold my wings at nightfall,

Wherever I happen to be;

For the Father is always watching,

And no harm can happen to me.

I am only a little sparrow,

A bird of low degree;

But I know that the Father loves me,

Dost thou know His love for thee?

“Are not five sparrows sold for two farthings, and not one of them is forgotten before GOD?”

“Fear not therefore; ye are of more value than many sparrows.”

—Luke 12:6,7.

Those that seek Me early shall find Me

Proverbs 8:17

Let the children come to Me,

Hear the Saviour say;

I their Shepherd true will be,

Love them all the day;

Keep them, feed them, gently lead them,

Ever with them stay.

ML-09/28/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 16:31-36

“AND THE house of Israel called the name thereof Manna: and it was like coriander seed, white; and the taste of it was like wafers made with honey.”

As remarked earlier, the manna is a type of Christ the Son of God in His humiliation here below. And how this verse reminds us of the invitation, “O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in Him.” Psalms 34:8. The people of Israel in their folly did not always find the manna appealing to them “like wafers made with hoy,” but here they received it as a welcome and pleasing gift from God.

“And Moses said, This is the thing which the LORD commandeth, Fill an omer of it to be kept for your generations; that they may see the bread wherewith I have fed you in the wilderness.” verse 32. Later when the tabernacle was built, Moses put this manna in a golden pot in the ark. It was to be a perpetual memorial. Just as the golden pot full of manna was to be kept for the generations to come, so God would ever have bore Him and His people the remembrance of His beloved Son and His blessed life here below. In Revelation 2:17 the promise to the overcomer is: “To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna.” How blessed to know that through the eternal ages we shall feed upon Christ, that “hidden manna,” and never weary of thinking of Him as the One who came down to earth and went into death for us.

“There on the hidden Bread

Of Christ — once humbled here

God’s treasured store — forever fed,

His love my soul shall cheer.”

The subject of the manna is a solemn one for both the believer and the unbeliever to consider. When the Lord Jesus was here on earth He was challenged time and again by Pharisees and scribes and those who refused to acknowledge Him as Son of God. On one occasion they approached Him, saying, “What signs showest Thou then, that We may see, and believe Thee? What dost Thou work? Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat. Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but My Father giveth you the true Bread from heaven. For the Bread of God is He which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world... I am the Bread of life: he that cometh to Me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst. But I said unto you, That ye also have seen Me, and believe not. All that the Father giveth Me shall come to Me; and him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:30-37.

Thus the Lord Jesus definitely and clearly answered any question that might arise as to the true meaning of the manna and showed that all who would not accept Him as the true Bread of life condemned themselves, but that all who do come to Him will never be cast out; they will receive eternal life.

In what way is Christ the Bread of God? He is the same Bread that God Himself feeds upon, and He is also the bread that God has given for a world perishing with hunger. How precious this is! When a soul comes to Christ He finds all his hunger and his thirst met in Jesus. He has that which meets the need of his soul both now and evermore.

ML-09/28/1969

Chased by a Tiger

A SMALL CIRCUS was passing through a town one day when somehow a large tiger escaped from one of the cages on wheels. Horrified townsfolk fled in all directions as the big cat had the time of his life romping about during his brief hour of freedom.

One schoolboy had a narrow escape as he ran for home with the great beast at his heels. Perhaps the tiger didn’t mean to hurt the boy; after being caged up so long it was fun to chase something. The boy managed to squeeze inside the door and was safe. But I don’t think he slept much that night. The tiger was captured soon after.

What a wonderful creature is the great tiger! How much more wonderful must be his Creator—the Lord Jesus Christ—“who is blessed forever.” Romans 1:25.

The tiger, like the lion, is a giant cat. He has no mane, but his coat of bright orange-yellow, is all covered over with black stripes. In India’s jungle land, overgrown with tall thick bushes and grass, many a tiger makes his home. He can run so swiftly that the fastest horse cannot overtake him. With great bounds he goes over the ground at a fearful speed.

Like other members of the cat tribe, the tiger has whiskers. They help him to steal softly among the branches and thick bushes. By the slightest touch on his whiskers, the tiger knows even in the deepest darkness when there is anything in his path, and whether it would make too much noise as he creeps along.

Some English officers once went out hunting in India. Returning home through the jungle they found a pretty little tiger kitten, and they took him home with them. They put a collar and chain around him and tied him to the pole inside their tent. The little tiger played about, to the delight of all the men. But just as it was growing dark, they heard a sound that caused the bravest among them to shiver. It was the roar of a great tiger.

At once the little kitten strained at the chain with all its baby strength, and tried to break loose. It uttered a loud wail that replied to the terrible voice outside. Suddenly there leaped into the very middle of the tent a huge mother tiger! She caught up her kitten by the neck and snapped with one jerk the chain which bound it. Then, turning to the tent door, she dashed away at full speed into the jungle.

I am not sorry to tell you that not a gun was fired at the brave mother as she bore her young one off in triumph.

I have often thought of that little tiger kitten, and remember that I was once a captive — taken captive by Satan at his will and held fast by the chains of sin. But just as the little tiger was content to play in his captivity so long as he was well fed, so was I content to go on in my sins. Then as the voice of the mother tiger awakened in him a longing to be free, so the voice of the Spirit of God, speaking to my heart, awakened in me a desire t; be saved. I cried to the Lord to de, liver me from my sins and He heard my cry. By His mighty power He snapped those chains which bound me, and set me free. He has re, deemed my soul, and now He is taking me home to heaven. Blessed be His name!

“Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Timothy 1:15. In His death and by His resurrection He has broken the power of death and Satan for faith. He has been setting captives free ever since, for all who by faith trust Him as their Saviour He sets free from sin, from judgment and Satan’s power. He is in heaven now and has prepared a home up there for all that love Him Have you been set free yet, dear reader, or are you still a captive to Satan, still chained by your sins?

“If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” John 8:36.

ML-10/05/1969

Evelyn's Doll

EVELYN used to pass a store that had a beautiful doll in the window. One day when she and her brother George were passing the store, Evelyn said, “I would just love to have that doll!”

A few weeks later what a surprise Evelyn had! Her brother gave her a box, and what do you think was in it? It was the same lovely doll she had seen in the window. How she thanked George over and over again for such a wonderful gift.

Do you think Evelyn paid her brother for the doll? Oh no! She just took it gratefully, and thanked him for it. And that is what God wants us to do with His wonderful offer of salvation — just take it as a free gift. He has sent His beloved Son to die for you, and if you trust Jesus as your Saviour and thank Him for dying for you, God will make you one of His dear children, Why not come to Him today? God’s gift of salvation is the best of all gifts.

“Thanks be unto God for His unspeakable Gift.” 2 Corinthians 9:15.

“The wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23

Memory Verse “IF THOU SEEK HIM, HE WILL BE FOUND OF THEE.” 1 Chronicles 28:9.

The Gospel of His grace includes us every one,

For God so loved the world He gave His only Son;

That whosoever will believe

Shall everlasting life receive.

His power can make you what you ought to be;

His blood can cleanse your heart and make you free;

His love can fill your soul, and you will see

’Twas best for Him to have His way with thee.

Blessed are they that keep My ways

Proverbs 8:32

The fear of the Lord is a fountain of life

Proverbs 14:27

ML-10/05/1969

The Young People's Class: Joshua

1. When the children of Israel were preparing to pass over Jordan, why were they told to follow the priests and Levites bearing the ark of the Lord? Joshua 3.

2. What answer did Thomas receive when he professed not to know the way to the Christian’s inheritance? John 14.

3. What was Joshua’s exhortation to the people the day before the Lord began to work wondrously for them? Joshua 3.

4. How is the Church sanctified so that Christ might present it to Himself holy and without blemish? Ephesians 5.

5. What were the priests to do as soon as they came to the brink of the water of Jordan? Joshua 3.

6. What is necessary for the Christian to be able to stand in the presence of the power of the enemy? Ephesians 6.

7. What happened to the waters of Jordan when the feet of the priests rested in in them? Joshua 3.

ML-10/05/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 16 (Continued)

IN THE New Testament the Lord I Jesus tells us that the manna speaks of Himself as the bread of life. “I am the living bread which came down from heaven.” John 6:51. In our chapter the Lord tells Moses: “Behold, I will rain bread from heaven for you.” verse 4.

Then we find that the manna came down during the dark hours of the night. “And in the morning the dew lay round about the host. And when the dew that lay was gone up, behold, upon the face of the wilderness there lay a small round thing, as small as the hoar frost on the ground.” vv. 13,14.

The Lord Jesus is the true Light, and that Light shone in the midst of the moral and spiritual darkness of this world. “His life of true perfection shed light on all around.” He attracted to Himself hungry souls to find in Him the true bread which the Father gave, “which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.” John 6:33. How kind, how loving it was of Him to come, knowing as He did that “men loved darkness rather than light” (John 3:19).

This food from heaven came silently, alighting on the dew all around the camp. This reminds us of the Lord Jesus who came to earth unobserved by men until the angels announced His birth in the manger, to the lowly shepherds on Bethlehem’s hillside. Although he was the true King of Israel, His appearance was unheralded by the very ones for whom He came. “He came unto His own, and His own received Him not.” John 1:11.

The manna was small, white, round and sweet to the taste. How lovely the virtues of the Saviour that are typified here! He was the humble, lowly One, “small” and despised in the sight of men. He too that lowly place in obedience to Father’s will, but now He is the “highly exalted One,” whom every tongue shall confess and to who every knee shall bow in a coming day. The virgin whiteness of the manna tells of the purity of the Lord Jesus who was holy, harmless and undefiled, “separate from sinners,"__ not tainted with the sins of the world through which he walked. What a beautiful sight it must have been to Israel to see the pure white manna covering the desert sands each morning! And what a contrast is the purity of the Lord Jesus — His Person, His walk and ways — to the evil everywhere in this scene.

Furthermore, no point of beginning or end could be found in the manna — it was round — reminding us of the eternal character of the One who came from heaven, “without beginning of days nor end of life,” and yet One who stooped for an interlude in that eternity to come into this world to save helpless sinners.

Those who have found salvation in the Lord Jesus enjoy the thought suggested in the words, “The taste of it was like wafers made with honey.” verse 31. The Psalmist must have known something of this too, for he wrote: “The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring forever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether... sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.” Psalms 19:9,10. May each of us find these precious virtues seen in Christ and typified in the manna, a personal and real enjoyment to the heart.

ML-10/05/1969

A Journey in Malaya

PACKMAN JOSEPH was an Indian colporteur whose journeys took him up and down the Malaya Peninsula a few years back. Rubber trees grow there, and there are tin mines. Tamils from India do most of the work on the rubber plantations, and Chinese in the mines. The Mays, who are the proper people of the country, live in houses raised off the ground. They grow rice and coconuts. The women weave wonderful fabrics of silk. They are pleasant folk with charming manners.

Colporteurs do not have adventures every day. They are not always in danger of being beaten and robbed. Packman Joseph’s story is a plain tale showing a packman doing his duty faithfully.

He wrote: “I traveled by train from Ipoh to Kuala Kubu, and there I hired an oxcart. I loaded it with three boxes containing gospels in various languages. I slept in the cart, with the boxes for my bed, a blanket to keep out the cold, and a pillow under my head. It was very uncomfortable. I started next morning at seven o’clock. On the way I met some Tamils.

I spoke to them a short time about the gospel and the saving power of the dear Lord Jesus Christ. I left them and had gone about a quarter of a mile when one of the men came running and said: ‘Sir, I cannot let you go without buying the Book about which you spoke. It has touched my heart. I cannot read it, but my son can. I shall give it to him, and he will tell me more of what is in it.’ So I sold him a Testament.

“Going on, I came to a tin mine, a thousand feet above the road. I climbed up the steep face of the bank by the steps which the workmen had made. They were all Chinese, and were surprised when I spoke to them in their own language. Many of them were pleased to buy gospels. I went on again. I could not buy any food that day; I had nothing but water. I thought I should not be able to stand it, but the Lord sustained me.

“Wherever I went, people ran up to me to buy gospels. Some who had no money borrowed it from neighbors. One man bought a gospel and said, ‘This is not a five cent book: it is a book which God sent to make my soul happy.’

“I reached a Malay village long after dark. I roused the police sergeant and he got me a place to sleep. I got up at midnight and prayed to God to bless the work of distributing the Scriptures, and all. His faithful workers throughout the world. I heard the clock strike two. Then I asked God to give me strength and courage to carry on my work successfully, and went to sleep.

“Next day I continued my joey. I came to a place where a Malay man was working about 50 yards from the road. I called to him and said, ‘This is God’s Book for your soul.’ He stopped his work, looked around, picked up a sword which was lying on the ground and walked steadily towards me. I imagined that the Malays had made a plot to kill me. I thought I would be called upon to give my life for Christ. When he drew near I saw his face lose its firmness; he came with a smile; talked to him about the gospel he gladly bought a copy.

“I walked on seventeen singing, preaching, and selling along the road. I saw a Malay working with his wife and children in a rice field. I stood up on the road and called to him, showing him tilt books. He laughed heartily, left his work and came to me with his family. I spoke to them a few wordy about God and His salvation through Christ. He bought one gospel. I thee told him I was thirsty. He ran to his house and brought a bamboo full of water — about a half gallon, and told me to take it with me.

“Wherever I went, and whenever I had a chance to speak. I always quoted John 3:16 — those beautiful words telling of the love of God and the gift of His Son to save poor sinners. I told them that the Bible, the Word of God, is like a garden of flowers. It is full of sweet stories which gladden the heart. But it must be received by faith into our souk Those who seek the nectar in God’s Word find it sweeter than honey.

“At the end of my journey I found that nearly four thousand copies of Scripture had been sold.”

Well done, Packman Joseph!

“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.

The Good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep.

John 10:11

I know My sheep, the Saviour said,

And all My sheep know Me.

My voice they hear, and follow near,

From harm and danger free.

For none shall pluck them from My hand

Nor from My Father’s care,

Till all are gathered safely home,

Eternal joys to share.

ML-10/12/1969

How Many Hairs on Your Head?

DID YOU KNOW that God knows how many hairs you have on your head? In Matthew 10:30 we read that “the very hairs of your head are all numbered.” The average number of hairs on a person’s head is about 120,000. The hair on your head grows about half an inch a month, and if you add up the growth of each hair, the total distance your hair grows in a year would be about ten miles!

Yes, the Lord thinks so much about us that He even knows how many hairs we have on our heads. Sometimes even Christian boys and girls feel discouraged, and think that maybe the Lord has forgotten them. Maybe they think life isn’t treating them right. But if the Lord takes the trouble to count even the hair on our heads, surely He will never leave or forget His own dear children. We are precious in His sight.

Satan knows he can’t take our salvation away from us, but he can make us discouraged and unhappy, and cause us to lose our joy in the Lord. A Christian father used to tell his children, “Keep thinking about how much the Lord Jesus loves you. It will make you very happy.” Try doing that, and you will be encouraged, not discouraged.

“David encouraged himself in the LORD his God.” 1 Samuel 30:6.

“I have loved thee with an everlasting love: therefore with loving-kindness have I drawn thee.”

Jeremiah 31:3.

ML-10/12/1969

A Brazilian Mother

A MOTHER in Brazil had bought a Bible and began to teach her children some of the sacred truths in the blessed Book. However, her husband forbade her to read it. But she had become so much interested that she only hid it away while he was about the house. He learned from the servants and the children that she was still reading the book, and several times he treated her roughly and even beat her for disobeying him.

The poor mother then conceived the idea of reading at night when all were asleep. She hid her Bible along with a box of matches and candle cut into small pieces, under her pillow. She would then wait until her husband and all the household were sound asleep and then she would light one of the bits of candle and hold it close down by her side so that the light might not awaken her sleeping husband. Thus in this way she spent many nights seeking out of God’s Book His messages for her soul.

The children of this godly woman have grown up now, each having a fine Christian character, and they too have brought up their own little ones in the knowledge and fear of the Lord.

Memory Verse “HAPPY IS HE... WHOSE HOPE IS IN THE LORD.” Psalms 146:5.

ML-10/12/1969

The Story of Moses, the Man of God

Exodus 16 (Continued)

THE MANNA was strictly a wilderness food for the people of Israel. It did not come until they had left Egypt, and it ceased when they reached Canaan — a period of forty years. How wonderful it was that God should feed His people perhaps two million souls — in the wilderness day after day for those forty long years!

We have seen how the manna speaks to us of Christ. May it be our delight to enjoy more of Christ as we too pass through this wilderness world. The instructions given to Israel in connection with the manna were typically the same as those needed by us today.

The Lord said: “The people shall go out and gather a certain rate every day.” verse 4. To profit by God’s gracious provision required diligence every day. To rest at home in the comforts of their tents would be to forfeit the daily provision and would not provide the needed energy for the day’s march. The comforts of an easy way of life could be a snare to an Israelite and to a Christian as well. The sluggard, in Proverbs 24:33, said: “Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep,” but found to his dismay his laziness brought him to poverty and want. Man for the most part is a sluggard in divine things, and it is sad to see how many children of God today are in spiritual poverty because they fail in faithfully pursuing the things of Christ. The enjoyment of comfort and ease is one of Satan’s wily ways to rob a believer of the nourishment he needs for his Christian path. There never has been a day more than the present when God’s people needed to exercise diligence in reading the Word and in enjoying the portion in Christ.

The manna was to be gathered early in the morning. If an Israelite failed to go out for his daily portion he and his family would have nothing to eat until a new day arrived. Or if he did not rise early and gather in the manna for the day, he would find that it had disappeared before the heat of the sun. How many a failure may be traced back to neglect on this point! A trial comes — unexpectedly, and the soul breaks down. But why? Because the manna was not collected before the sun was hot, before other things crowded in.

Of course, it should not be thought that the morning is the only time to be occupied with the Lord. Indeed, as there is opportunity, we should desire to enjoy the things of Christ all through the day and in the evening too. But the important thing is to see that the day is begun with the gathering of the manna, and what is gathered “early in the morning” can then become the foundation for the whole day. Furthermore, they were not to get more than was necessary for the day, or to hold some in reserve for a later time. It could not be stored for future use. They were told not to leave any until the morning; but some did so and found that it spoiled overnight and was corrupted. No; the food collected today cannot sustain us on the morrow. It is only in the present exercise of soul that we can feed upon Christ. This tells of the need of going to the Lord afresh every morning for His help and encouragement for the rest of the day

ML-10/12/1969

Suwartha

ATAMA, one of India’s little children, was dead. Suwartha, her mother, was heartbroken, for she loved her little one as dearly as any mother in Christian lands ever loved her child. She had never heard the gospel message, of how Jesus died for sinners and that He had risen again from the dead. She was a Hiu, and in her grief she went to the temple for some word of comfort.

The priest, seeing her, spoke roughly to her.

“Where is your child?” he asked, contemptuously.

“Most noble ruler,” said Suwartha, “my little Atama is dead. Yesterday I carried her in my arms to the burning ghat and —.”

“Aha!” laughed the old priest. “One less woman to plague men.”

“It must be as you say,” murmured Suwartha, meekly, “but my arms are empty, and my heart is full of sorrow because she is gone. And I wonder where her gentle spirit .19

“Her spirit, her soul?” interrupted the priest. “Who knows if she has a soul?”

“Oh, do not say so,” wailed Sartha. “Tell me, is she happy? Is her soul at rest?”

The priest appeared to reflect seriously for a moment. “Is a toad hay?” he asked. Then he told her: “More than likely already the soul of your child has passed into one of these. Be careful and avoid every form of creeping thing lest you crush your child.”

“And when will her soul be freed from this bondage?”

“Oh,” yawned the priest, “perhaps in ten thousand years.”

Slowly Suwartha arose and left the temple. She went to the outskirts of the city where the day bore she had witnessed the burning of the body of her child. There lay a heap of ashes. Suddenly, it seemed, they stirred, and slowly there glid from them a hideous cobra snake. “Palmur! Tat! Palmur!” shrieked Suwartha. “Atama, my darling,” and fell to the ground, overcome with grief, for she believed that the soul of Atama had passed into the serpent.

A little later Suwartha started home. On the way she met a band of little children, and they were singing:

“There’s a home for little children,

Above the bright blue sky;

Where Jesus reigns in glory

A home of peace and joy.

No home on earth is like it,

Nor can with it compare;

For everyone is happy

Nor could be happier there.”

What could this mean? Was there hope after all? Was little Atama not in the body of the snake, but happy somewhere? She rembembered that one of her neighbors, Chettu, was no longer a Hindu, but a believer in the Jesus gospel. Going to her, she said: “Oh, Chettu, I have just come from the burning ghat where I carried my little Atama yesterday, and out of the heap of ashes where her body was burned I saw a dreadful cobra writhe; and if what the priest told me was true, the spirit of my darling Atama has entered that hideous snake.”

“Oh no!” interrupted Chettu early. “It is not true; it is a lie. The soul of Atama is in the bosom of Jesus, the risen Saviour, who loved little children, and took them in His arms and blessed them.”

For a while they talked together, and Chettu told her friend the Won: derful story of how Jesus, the Son of God, had died for sinners, little ones as well as older ones, and that all who put their trust in Him as their Saviour go to be with Him in heaven. Even little babes like Atama, who die before they are old enough to confess His name, are under the shelter of His precious blood. Suwartha drank it all in eagerly and then went home comforted, That night Suwartha could scarce. ly sleep. The strange new message of life after death seemed too good to be true, but what comfort and peace it brought to her soul! Then she herself believed that Jesus came to save Suwartha, and her little Ata ma too! The next morning, when the first glimmer of sunlight stole into the room, and rested upon the face of Suwartha, it revealed there the light that shines wherever a soul receives eternal life through faith in Christ Jesus. Life and immortality have been brought to light through the gospel.

“The wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23.

What a Saviour Jesus is!

O what grace, what love is His!

He alone the Saviour is!

Everlasting praise be His!

Come along, come along, come along!

Come and join our cheerful throng!

Come, boys and girls and grown-ups, too

Joyful news we bring to you,

That Christ Who died is risen again

To be our Prince and Saviour.

“I WILL TRUST, AND NOT BE AFRAID: FOR THE LORD JEHOVAH IS MY STRENGTH AND MY SONG.” lsa. 12:2.

ML-10/19/1969

Gladys's Blueberries

GLADYS lived near a large blueberry farm. In the summertime when the fruit was ripe many of the neighborhood children would come to pick blueberries and earn five cents for each quart they picked. Not all the children were honest, however; some of them cheated. They would put dirt and stones in the bottom of their quart baskets and fill them up the rest of the way with blueberries. They tried to make it appear that they had picked more berries than they really had.

Some of the children told Gladys that she should put some dirt and stones in the bottom of her basket, but she refused. Gladys was a Christian girl and knew that this would not be pleasing to the Lord. So she always picked a full quart of berries.

It does not pay to cheat. Sometimes we have tried to deceive others, and we thought we have got away with it. But God sees everything we do. We may think we are fooling mother and father, but we can never fool God. Every thought, word and deed is known to Him.

“All things are naked and opened unto the eyes of Him with whom we have to do.” Hebrews 4:13.

Every sin in your life and mine must be answered for one day. The Lord Jesus has answered to God for all the sins of those who trust Him as their Saviour. Those who do not have Him as their Saviour will one day have to answer to God for their own sins and that will mean eternal judgment.

Oh, may each dear reader come to know this precious Saviour and the cleansing power of His precious blood, for “The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7.

“Their sins and iniquities will I remember no more.” Hebrews 10:17.

ML-10/19/1969

"Next Friday Night"

Time is Short

It is time to seek the Lord

My times are in Thy hand

Eternity

EVERY Friday night a Christian man visits the jail in Rome, Georgia. He preaches to the prisoners there about the Lord Jesus, and the wonderful salvation He has prided for sinners.

One night a prisoner told Mr. Lloyd, “John, I’ll come to Christ next Friday night.”

“What if you die before then?” John asked.

“Never mind,” said the prisoner. “I’ll come next Friday night.”

The next Thursday night the prisoner died suddenly. He never lived to accept Christ on Friday night. How sad it was that he put off his salvation for one week. God’s Word tells us that NOW is the day of salvation—not tomorrow or next week. Are you putting off coming to Christ to be saved?

“It is time to seek the Lord.”

Hosea 10:12.

“Behold, NOW is the accepted time; behold, NOW is the day of salvation.” 2 Corinthians 6:2.

ML-10/19/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 16 (Continued)

“AND IT SHALL come to pass, that on the sixth day they shall prepare that which they bring in; and it shall be twice as much as they gather daily.” verse 5. It was at this time God established the seventh day of the week as the day of rest for Israel — their sabbath day. The sabbath therefore is a type of God’s rest and as given to man expresses the desire of God’s heart, that he should share with Him in His rest. Here in connection with the manna, it has a very wonderful significance. So that the children of Israel could be free from gathering manna on this day, God provided an exception in regard to the daily routine. On the sixth day, they were to gather a double supply, a portion for the morrow as well. On this one day of each week, that which was held over did not spoil.

After the cross of Christ the sabbath of the Jews was no longer continued, for from that time forth the first day of the week was set aside for Christians. This is confirmed in several New Testament passages, and it is the privilege and joy of believers now to associate the first day — the Lord’s day — with the resurrection of the Lord, and the day on which He first met with His disciples after He arose from the grave. Christians are called upon to sanctify this day, or set it apart for the Lord, and insofar as possible to refrain from labor and other occupations so that the day may be reverently devoted to the Saviour.

On the day before the sabbath, the Israelite was to gather sufficient manna to last through the sabbath as well. Although not bound by the law, every true-hearted Christian might well seek to carry out this principle in connection with the Lord’s day. Surely we do not Weil to wait until the Lord’s day to be occupied with Christ, or to seek at that late hour to suddenly fill the heart with the Word of God. There should be preparation of heart and a gathering of these precious things well before the first day of the week dawns, so that out of the treasure of the heart one may bring forth good things and “offer up spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God by Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 2:5. When there is delay until Lord’s day to be occupied with Christ, there will be little enjoyment of His Person, and sad evidence that the heart has not been properly prepared for its privileges. One who desires to “serve the Lord with gladness, and come before His presence with singing” will find this can only be done when there has been preparation beforehand. The double provision of manna on the sixth day tells us that when sharing in God’s rest, in Ills grace, throughout eternity, Christ will still be our food; in fact, it may be said that our enjoyment of that rest will consist in feasting with God upon Christ once humbled here.

In Nehemiah’s day the gates of the city were shut when it “began to be dark before the sabbath.” There would be more for God from His people now if they too would close the week in quietness, refraining from those things that interfere with communion with the Lord well in advance of the Lord’s day. We cannot expect to have our hearts full of Christ on the Lord’s day if business or amusements have occupied us until late hours of the evening before. May God give us grace to consider these things in the light of eternity that we might honor Him more and enjoy Christ more in our hearts.

ML-10/19/1969

A Gentle Bandit

MR. TIEN was a dear Christian Chinese colporteur who lived in the walled village of Chueh in the province of Shantung. Here also lived a rich man and his family in a very fine home.

One day a band of brigands made an assault on the village. A terrible fight followed, and in the end the bandits were victorious. They broke through the defenses and began to loot the village. One of the first houses that they entered was the home of the rich man. They took all they wanted, but they were greatly disappointed to find the women and children were not there. The rich man thought his family would be safer in the humble dwelling of Mr. Tien the colporteur than in his own fine dwelling, so he sent them there as soon as the bandits began their attack. The bandits had hoped to carry off the man’s children and hold them for a ransom. Then a traitor said to them: “I can tell you where the women and children are. Come with me.” He took them straight to Mr. Tien’s house, and said, “You will find them there.” The bandits carried off the rich man’s wife and children, and also Mr. Tien’s own son and niece. In the night they set off with their captives and booty for a stronghold away in the mountains.

Poor Mr. Tien was away selling gospels at the time when he heard the bad news. He hurried home and found it was all true.

One morning a stranger stopped him on the street and whispered: “I have a message for you. You must travel alone and unarmed to such a place way up in the mountains, and when you get there you will receive further instructions.” Then the man disappeared.

“What does this mean?” Mr. Tien asked himself. “Is this a trap to catch me?” His friends begged him not to go into the bandit country, but Mr. Tien believed that God would take care of him anywhere, so he shouldered his haversack, full of gospels, and set out for the mountains, selling the books as he went along. As he entered the wild hilly country his courage almost failed him. All along the way there were armed men watching him from the high rocks. On he went until a gruff voice challenged him: “Who are you?” He replied, “I am Tien of Chueh village.”

“Oh you have come, have you?” said the voice. “Keep on up the pass and you won’t go wrong.”

He was challenged again, and as he passed from post to post each time the sentries allowed him to go on. These robbers always spoke of their victims as though they were lottery tickets — some very valuable, and some a blank, because poor. They reckoned Mr. Tien a blank. They called him “Poor Tict.” The sentry would call out, “Pass, Poor Ticket.”

At last Mr. Tien found himself in what was more like a military camp than a village. It was crowded with armed men. Mr. Tien was led into the house where the robber chief had his office. To his great surprise he was received as an honored guest. The chief called for tea to be served, and he even poured it out with his own hands for Mr. Tien. Furthermore, he apologized to the colporteur for having brought him so far away from home.

“I could have sent your children back to you,” he said, “but I was afraid that harm might come to them on the road. I am sorry my men made the mistake they did. They did not know that these were your children.” Then he noticed that the colporteur was carrying a haversack, and said: “I see you have brought some of your books with you. I have often seen you selling them at the markets and fairs. How much do you earn?”

Mr. Tien said: “I receive eight dollars a month and also a commission on the sales.” “That is not enough,” said the bandit, “but it’s good work that you are doing. Now I suppose you would like to see your children.”

Mr. Tien followed him joyfully as he led the way to where the prisoners were guarded. He soon had the joy of seeing his children and of hearing from their own lips that they were safe and well. He did not have to pay anything to have them released.

“Here they are,” said the robber chief. “Take them home and forgive my men for bringing them away.” As Mr. Tien was leaving, the robber chief patted him on the shoulder and said, “Work hard at your preaching and book-selling.”

So Mr. Tien wended his wav home, wondering greatly.

That was thirty years ago, but things have changed in China since then. Many faithful Christians have died in communist prisons and many more today are suffering for the name of Christ. Still God watches over His own dear children everywhere; they are precious in His sight, and one day soon He is going to gather them all home to heaven, and they shall be forever there with His own dear Son.

Dear reader, will you be there?

“Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.’ Romans 10:13.

Stand up for Jesus, nobly stand,

Firm as a rock on ocean’s strand;

Stand up, His righteous cause defend,

Stand up for Jesus, your best Friend

God is our refuge and strength Psalms 46, I

ML-10/26/1969

Mother Hen

WHERE I am staying here there is a mother hen with nine little chicks. They are very difficult to count; they run about and mix themselves up so. I noticed that the old hen brings them home early in the afternoon and takes them into a place where no one can disturb them. They are so pretty, too.

One little fellow looked out from under his mother’s feathers so cute the other evening. He got sleepy and then he went inside. Her feathers seem so soft and warm.

Mother hen is very fierce when any other hen comes near. She rushes at the other hen, and it has to go off flying in terror. The other day the old hen actually attacked two young pigs that came too near her chicks. She is intelligent too. When I was feeding her, the two pigs approached and a boy scared them off. The hen seemed to know that he was not chasing her. She stood still, looking very pleased.

The chicks understand her call perfectly. When she finds something good to eat, she utters one kind of a call and they all come running. When there is danger, she utters another call and they all run to her for shelter.

When the Lord Jesus was here on earth, He called the people — children and older folks — to come and follow Him; but, sad to say, only a little few answered His call. Most refused or did not want to listen. So He wept over Jerusalem, saying, “O Jerusalem... how often would I have gathered thy children together, even as a hen gathereth her chicks under her wings, and ye would not!” Matthew 23:37. There was nothing left for them but judgment.

May it not be so with you, dear reader. Today the Saviour calls, sang, “Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Matthew 11:28. For those who come and trust Him as their Saviour, He provides rest, and shelter, and food, and blessings, all through this life, with a happy home in heaven at the end.

“WHOSO HEARKENETH UNTO ME

SHALL DWELL SAFELY, AND SHALL BE

QUIET FROM FEAR OF EVIL.” Proverbs 1:33.

ML-10/26/1969

The Lamp of Truth and Beauty Everywhere

Though earthly lights may easily be extinguished

The Lamp of Truth burns on and on for aye;

A Lamp to guide aright each faltering footstep;

A light to lead to God’s eternal day.

Beautiful Beyond All

Beauty ev’rywhere,

In earth and sky and sea,

But beautiful beyond all these

Is Jesus Christ to me!

Jesus, Jesus, Jesus!

Sweetest Name I know;

Fills my every longing,

Keeps me singing as I go.

ML-10/26/1969

The Story of Moses

Exodus 16 (Continued)

“THIS IS the thing which the LORD hath commanded, Gather of it every man according to his eating, an omer for every man, according to the number of your peons; take ye every man for them which are in his tents.” verse 16. It would seem that the head of each home was responsible to provide manna for each member of the household. Here then is a special message for parents, and more particularly for fathers, to observe.

There is no better way of carrying this out than in providing spiritual food daily for all in the home — from the youngest to the eldest. Faithful daily reading the Word and prayer are certain to have a good effect. In connection with this, we notice another point: “He that gathered much had nothing over, and he that gathered little had no lack; they gathered every man according to his eating.” verse 18. God saw the varied circumstances of all the families in Israel and provided according to their individual need. Perhaps some with large families might have more difficulty than others in gathering a full measure for each, whereas the others might find no difficulty in securing an over-abundant supply. But God assured them that regardless of the circumstances wherever there was faithfulness, there would be a sufficient supply for anyone, nor would any go to waste.

Perhaps a Christian might feel he is not able to gather from the Scriptures as much as another. Well, God knows about the need and limitations and in effect says: “You gather and I will bless it according to your eating.”

But it is the responsibility of parent to discern the different needs of those to whom he brings the truth of the Word. Wisdom, patience and simplicity are required with the little ones, whereas the older members of the family should be able to accept deeper truths. “For every over that useth milk is unskillful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe. But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.” Hebrews 5:13,14.

In gathering the double provision of manna on the sixth day, so there would be enough for the sabbath day, our thoughts are carried on to eternity and the rest of God. Whatever we gather of Christ for our souls down here becomes our eternal possession and delight. Let us gather as much as we may, two omers instead of one; if it is kept for the rest that remaineth for the people of God, it will be a source of strength and joy through all eternity.

As remarked before, there was to be no gathering of manna on the sabbath. And so in eternity the time for gathering of the manna will be forever past. Christ will never more be apprehended in that character; for there the wilderness will then have forever passed away. What they collected in the desert may still be enjoyed; but there will be no more to be gathered.

Nevertheless the Lord told Moses to put an omer full of manna within a golden pot, and lay it up before the Lord, and to the overcomer in Revelation 2:17 the Lord promised, “To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna.” Thus Christ in His humiliation will never be forgotten, but always remembered, and gratefully fed upon by His people throughout eternity.

ML-10/26/1969

A Terrible Foe

MOTHER tiger thought there never were two such lovely babies as her darling cubs, Tabby and Growler. Certainly they were a good-looking little pair, with their handsome striped jackets, pretty white shirts, and funny little stumpy tails. Mother tiger would probably greet you with an angry growl, but she had a very tender heart for her little kittens.

One afternoon, mother tiger and her cubs were asleep in the jungle. All was so still in the heat of the Indian afternoon. Only a little croak now and again from a tree frog or a bit of chatter from a monkey, could be heard. But if most creatures were drowsy and quiet, somebody was very much awake and alert. Did you see a little gleam down there in the long grass? Watch it. It is moving a little, though you hear no sound. It is the cruel eye of a snake, a huge creature, but the writhing folds of its body are so like the withered grass all around it, and it moves so stealthily and silently you can scarcely see what it is. It is coming slowly toward the sleeping cubs. Look how the eyes flash and glare as the head is raised. Another minute, and it may be all up with either Tabby or Growler!

But the rustle of the dead leaves wakens mother tiger. Up she springs in a moment, and there close by her babies quivers the head of the great snake whose bite is fatal. Now a snake is not easy to get hold of, even for a tiger. But mother tiger thinks nothing of the danger to herself; she only knows her darlings are in peril. So, springing at the poisonous creature, she caught its neck in her teeth.

It was as much as she could do to hang on. The snake squirmed and writhed, and managed to twist itself twice around her body; it lashed its tail so firmly to a tree that it actually held the great beast a prisoner, and began to crush its enemy.

Tabby and Growler squealed and arched their little backs, trembling in terror. Then at last the brave mother got a firm hold close to the snake’s head. Her powerful jaws crunched and her teeth met as she held on. There was one last tremendous struggle, and then it was all over. The great snake’s hunting days ended forever.

When the cubs saw their dreadful foe was dead, they squealed afresh with delight, and let themselves be licked all over by their triumphant mother. She told them, when she had finished using her tongue as a scrubbing brush, that as they grew older they must always be on the lookout for snakes.

Now boys and girls in these lands are seldom attacked by venomous snakes, but they have a far worse foe — something that “biteth like a serpent.” And it is so silent and sly, creeping up on us while we think of no danger. Oftentimes people are seen to be fast asleep when this old serpent strikes, and then they find themselves in the dreadful grip of a strong sinful habit from which there is no escape. Only the Lord Jesus can save us from Satan’s power. He watches over and safely keeps all those who have fled to him for refuge. In the great conflict at Calvary the Lord Jesus died to save sinners like you and me; “that through death He might destroy him that had the power of death, that is the devil; and deliver them, who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.”

“God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8.

ML-11/02/1969

The Chained Bible

The entrance of Thy words giveth light

Psalms 119:130

IF YOU WERE to visit the British Museum in London, England, you would see a very large handwritten Bible, with a huge chain around it. Why was it chained?

Before the printing press was invented, every Bible had to be copied by hand. It took many months of hard work. There were very few Bibles and they cost hundreds of dollars. Even if you wanted to copy the Bible, you would have trouble finding one to copy. So preachers would have the great Bible chained to the pulpit so people could come and look at it, but not be tempted to steal it.

If you had lived over 400 hundred years ago, the only way you could read God’s Word would be to do as this boy and girl are doing in the picture — go to a church and read it. Often there would be a line of people waiting to get a chance to read it too.

Just think, boys and girls, you can go to your room and pick up your Bible right now. It belongs to you maybe you even have two or three. You can read it any time, and you don’t have to stand in line for hours just to see it. But is God’s Word precious to you? Are you reading it every day? Let us thank the Lord that He has given us a Bible of our own to read, to love and its sacred texts to memorize. How good He is to give them to us!

“Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and Thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart.” Jeremiah 15:16.

“The word of the Lord was precious in those days.” 1 Samuel 3:1.

ML-11/02/1969

The Young People's Class: Joshua

1. What was the first thing the Lord commanded Joshua to do after all the people were passed over Jordan? Joshua 4.

2. What answer was to be given when anyone asked “What mean ye by these stones?” Josh.

3. What verses remind the Christian that he too has been delivered out of death and brought into a new life? Ephesians 2.

4. How will we reckon ourselves if these things have their proper effect in our lives? Romans 6.

5. In what place did Joshua erect an additional monument of twelve stones which would not be seen by human eyes? Josh.

6. What is there in the Christian experience that provides the evidence of things not seen? Heb.

7. As the twelve memorial stones in Jordan spoke to the Israelites of death, what memorial shows the Lord’s death to the Christian? 1 Corinthians 11.

ML-11/02/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 17:1-4

“AND ALL the congregation of the children of Israel journeyed from the wilderness of Sin, after their journeys, according to the commandment of the LORD, and pitched in Rephidim: and there was no water for the people to drink.”

In Numbers 33, where a more detailed account is given, we learn that after leaving the wilderness of Sin, where the manna was first given, they made two encampments en-route to Rephidim — one at Dopah and the other at Alush — so apparently some little time had elapsed. During that time they were receiving daily the promised manna, as well as every other necessity. Their path through the desert was also made plain for them by Jehovah, even as Moses told the people: He “went in the way before you, to search you out a place to pitch your tents in, in fire by night, to show you by what way ye should go, and in a cloud by day.” Deuteronomy 1:33.

With these and many more evidences of God’s provision, and protection, surely their confidence should not have been shaken when at Rephidim there was no water for them. They had witnessed God’s readiness to provide and here was a test of faith to cast them upon Him again. But alas, they were only too quick to complain. “Wherefore, the people did chide with Moses, and said, Give us water that we may drink. And Moses said unto them, Why chide ye with me? wherefore do ye tempt the LORD?”

Had God chosen to do so, He could have immediately transported the Israelites from Egypt to Canaan without all the delays experienced in the vast wilderness. But then they would not have experienced His wonderful grace and the power His might so often exercised them. Nor would they have learn the lesson of their own hearts, often acting in unbelief and self-will.

“These things happened unto the for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world (or age) are come.” 1 Corinthians 10:11.

“And Moses cried unto the Los!), saying, What shall I do unto this people? they be almost ready to stone me.” verse 4. In their sinful murmurings and unbelief, they looked upon Moses as the author of all their misery and were almost ready to kill him in their anger. The people chode with Moses; but in reality, as Moses said, “They tempted the LORD, saying, Is the Lord among us, or not?” (vs. 7). Moses was their appointed leader, and the Lord’s representative. To chide with him was thus to chicle with the Lord, and to complain was to doubt, if not to deny the Lord’s presence.

How forgetful they were of the place God had given Moses in releasing them from the taskmasters of Egypt—-and bringing them in triumph across the Red Sea — crying to God for them at Marah and at the wilderness of Sin. Such is the unguarded heart in its disobedience and rebellion that the instruments of God’s mercy are often not only neglected, but deliberately despised and refused. This shows us that to murmur and complain because of the trials of the wilderness is a sin of a very solemn nature, for in reality it is doubting whether the Lord is with us. If the people believed that He was among them, every murmur would have been hushed, and they would have rested in the assurance that He would in His own time hear their cry, and supply their needs.

ML-11/02/1969

The Turkish Governor

I’M GLAD to see you Stephanos. I Come in and tell me all about yourself and how your work is going on.”

That was the way Mr. Hooper welcomed Stephanos Majar in his office in Port Said, Egypt, one morning years ago. Stephanos was one of the Lord’s valued packmen, or colporteurs.

“Well, sir, I have much to tell you, but it is on my heart to speak of Arabia. I want to go there again.” “Nobody knows better than you, Stephanos, that anyone who carries the Bible into Arabia carries also his life in his hands.”

“I know it, sir, but my trust is in God.”

Then Stephanos unfolded his plan, while Mr. Hooper listened with admiration for the boldness of it.

The man at the Bible house packed six boxes full of Bibles, Testaments, and Gospels and put them on board a ship. When it sailed a few days later, it carried Stephanos with a crowd of pilgrims who were bound for the sacred Mohammedan city of Mecca. He was dressed like them and he spoke Arabic as they spoke. They never suspected that he was a Christian or they might have thrown him overboard. He kept very quiet all through.

They came at last to the port, Heidah. Stephanos landed and presently was standing in the Customs House with his six boxes before the Turkish officer.

“These six cases contain holy books which I am conveying to His Excellency, the Governor of Sana’a. They must not be opened. Seal them, then call for camels and send them off,” ordered Stephanos.

The Turkish officer was much impressed by the way in which Stephanos gave his orders. Soon the boxes were sealed and loaded on the camels and the drivers led them off along the white road to Sana’a. Three days later, Stephanos hired a swift racing camel and himself rode through the desert to Sana’a. Arriving at the palace, he found the six cases there safe in the Governor’s store. Then he approached one of the officials of the great man and said: “I beg you to inform His Excellency that Stephanos Majar has arrived and craves the honor to display the treasure that he has brought in six cases.”

The Governor had never heard of Stephanos before, but the suggestion of treasure roused his curiosity and he soon called him. As Stephanos bowed before him, the Governor said: “What treasure is this of which you speak, oh stranger?”

“Your Excellency knows,” said Stephanos, “that it is said in the Koran, ‘Believe in God and His Apostles and the Book which He hath revealed to His Apostles, and the Book which He sent down bore.’ Tie this ancient Book I have brought your Excellency.”

So saying, Stephanos produced a beautiful Bible from within his long robe. The governor was a lover of books, and he took this one carefully, turning it over and admiring its handsome binding and fine Arabic lettering.

“There is no strength or power but in God!” exclaimed the Governor. “Of this Book I have heard, but never saw it till now.”

He opened and began to read: “In the beginning God created...”

“Truly,” he said, “it is the book of the law. Come, expound to me. Where does it tell of Abraham, leader of the faithful?”

Stephanos read the chapters about Abraham and Moses, then turned to the gospels. For hours the governor listened and asked questions. At last, he closed the Book. “Now,” he said, “tell me of the treasure that is in the six boxes.”

“But, your Excellency, this is the treasure. The six cases contain nothing but copies and portions of this Book. I brought this one for you, and ask your gracious permission to sell the rest to your people.”

The governor looked at him sternly. “Thou art a Nazarene [Christian]. Truly, thou art a brave man to come here with thy Book. Knowest thou not that if I speak the word, these Arabs will rend thee from limb? Dost thou not value thy life?”

“My trust is in God!” replied Stephanos.

The governor’s face changed. Re knew a brave man when he saw one. He gave Stephanos permission to sell, and also sent messengers to warn the people to do him no hark Stephanos stayed in Sana’a several days, and sold all his books Bibles, Testaments, Gospels. And he mounted his swift camel and rode back along the desert road to Hodeidah. Nobody knows but God the results of that brave act.

“My word... shall not return unto Me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” Isaiah 55:11.

The Bible, dear reader, is God’s message to man wherever he is found. It tells of his true condition as a sinner — lost, helpless, ruined but it also tells how God loved the world and the gift of His beloved Son is His perfect remedy for sin Christ Jesus is “the way, the truth and the life.” Read your Bible for salvation; read it too everyday for light and strength and comfort all along the way from earth to heaven

Memory Verse “IT SHALL BE WELL WITH THEM THAT FEAR GOD... BUT IT SHALL NOT BE WELL WITH THE WICKED.” Ecclesiastes 8:12,13

ML-11/09/1969

How God Used a Scripture Text Card

A LITTLE Chinese lady told the following story of how she became a Christian.

She lived on the corner, less than a block from the gospel mission, but had never been inside it. One day her boy saw the children coming from the Sunday School with their scripture text cards. “Give me one,” he said.

“No, you go to Sunday school next week and you will get one too,” the children replied.

The next Sunday she missed her little boy and went out to look for him.

“Oh, he’s gone to the gospel mission of the Jesus doctrine,” someone told her.

She was frightened. She had a dusty old cloth on her head, for she was cleaning rice, and did not stop to brush her clothes, but went right up to the hall full of fear.

She entered the door and saw what amazed her — a group of women reading. She had not believed it possible for women to read and look so happy. Until now, she had not thought of her own appearance. She looked for her boy and saw him in a group learning the text which was to be recited when he would get the coveted Scripture card. She went away and later her boy came home with his card. He also told her the Bible verse he had recited. The next Sunday she tidied herself and went with her boy to the mission.

That was the beginning of richest blessing in that home. One after another turned to the Lord until the whole family was saved.

“O how great is Thy goodness, which Thou hast laid up for them that fear Thee; which Thou hast wrought for them that trust in Thee before the sons of men.” Psalms 31:19.

ML-11/09/1969

How Different!

AN AGED Christian woman lay dying in her quiet village home. Weeping friends stood near her bed, but she wept not. Looking calmly upon them she said, “I am going.” Then turning her gaze upward, she said, “I am coming,” and was immediately with her Lord.

How different from the end of the notorious infidel who cried to the woman who waited on him, “Stay with me, for I cannot bear to be alone. Send even a child to be with me, for it is hell to be alone.” Yes, lonely indeed must that soul be who is left to face death and eternity without Christ! What will your end be, dear reader?

“As for me, I will call upon God; and the Lord shall save me.” Psalms 55:16.

The perfect friend is one who knows the worst about you,

And loves you just the same:

There’s One Who loves you just like that,

And Jesus is His Name.

Wonderful love of Jesus,

Dying on Calvary;

Suffering shame and anguish

All for the love of me.

The Father Himself loveth you

John 16:27

The love of Christ... passeth knowledge

Ephesians 3:19

Loved... with an everlasting love

Jeremiah 31:3

ML-11/09/1969

The Story of Moses, the Man of God

Exodus 17:5-7

“AND THE LORD said unto Moses, Go on before the people, and take with thee of the elders of Israel; and thy rod, wherewith thou smotest the river, take in thine hand, and go. Behold, I will stand before thee there upon the rock in Horeb; and thou shalt smite the rock, and there shall come water out of it, that the people may drink. And Moses did so in the sight of the elders of Israel.” vv. 5,6.

Moses, dismayed at the cries of the people, was once more to witness the amazing grace of God. Rod in hand, together with the elders of Israel he proceeded to the great rock in Horeb, and, as God instructed him, he smote it. Immediately the water gushed out. “Behold, he smote the rock, that the waters gushed out, and the streams overflowed.” Psalms 78:20. What a sight to see the vast multitude drinking the fresh sparkling water flowing from the smitten rock. But this is more than a wonderful story. God tells us that “they drank of that spiritual Rock that followed them: and that Rock was Christ. 1 Corinthians 10:4. What a beautiful picture this is of the Lord Jesus smitten of God for us at Calvary. Through the work that He accomplished there, when He bore the full stroke of God’s judgment against sin, we can freely drink the water of life. Our thirsty souls can find perfect satisfaction in Christ, and God can send out the blessed invitation, “Whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” Revelation 22:17.

Before Christ was smitten on the cross, God’s mercies and compassions, His grace and His love, were pent up within Himself. But immediately Jesus died and atonement was made, when the claims of God’s holiness were satisfied, then the floodgates of His heart were opened to pour forth streams of grace and life throughout the world. “The veil of the temple was rent in twain from the top to the bottom.” Matthew 27:50,51. God could now come out in all His grace to man, and man, seen in the believer, could enter boldly into His very presence.

The water that flowed from the smitten Rock tells too of the Holy Spirit as the power of life in the believer, bringing him into the good of the work of Christ. It satisfies his thirst and then flows back up to God in worship; even as the Lord told the woman at Sychar’s well: “whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” John 4:14. It is also the power in testimony according to the Lord’s own words: “If any man thirst, let him come unto Me, and drink. He that believeth on Me ... out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake He of the Spirit, which they that believe on Him should receive.)” John 7:37-39.

It was the people’s sin that led to the smiting of the rock. “And he called the name of the place Massah, and Meribah.” These names would ever be a memorial of their sin, and of the display of God’s power and grace that met it.

ML-11/09/1969

Up a Tree

IN ONE OF the Indonesian islands a Chinese doctor had a hospital and natives came from near and far for medical help. Mr. Lee had a young native assistant, Ching, who became quite efficient in giving shots and administering simple remedies. The doctor would send him on his bicycle with a kit filled with various medicines to villages off in the jungles where he would treat poor sick folk who were unable to come to the hospital.

One bright morning Ching started out on his bicycle along the dusty road to a distant village, with his little kit in the carrier. He passed one rice paddy after another until the road entered the jungle. The young man was tired and as he peddled along he looked forward to the end of his journey with keen anticipation. Suddenly out of the dense undergrowth ahead of him appeared a herd of wild pigs, or peccaries, grunting and squealing fiercely. That these wild pigs can be very ferocious, when in a herd, Ching well knew. Instantly our young friend jumped from his bike and ran for the nearest tree, up which he climbed just in time to escape the mad onrush of the pigs. They ran around the tree and when they spied the abandoned bicycle, they stamped all over it, ruining it, and chewed up the kit of medicines. They were not disposed to leave in a hurry, so Ching had to stay up the tree. He was worried that he might be attacked by ants, which could cause him to loosen his grip and so fall to the ground. However, no ants attacked him, so he remained in the tree for a long while.

Back at the hospital, Dr. Lee ban to worry when his young assistant failed to return. Finally, he decided to go and look for him. In his little foreign car, he drove along the jungle road and finally entered the dark forest. He stopped several times along the way, calling out Ching’s name. What was his joy when he heard a shout coming from way up in a tree down the road. Soon he reached the spot and getting out of his car he found his young friend clinging to one of the branches.

Before Ching could descend, hover, a loud trumpeting and crashing was heard in the jungle, and a herd of elephants rushed out into the open. Elephants can be very dangerous also, and when they saw the doctor and his little car on the roadside they made a stampede in his direction. Mr. Lee scarcely had time to climb up a tree himself, bore the mad elephants rushed past. When they came to his little car they overturned it with their trunks, stamped all over it with their great feet, smashing it to pieces. The two men, both up the tree, were now helpless prisoners. Neither could help each other, and all means of escape was gone.

The elephants thrashed about the car and under the tree for some time, and then all took off into the jungle. The pigs had already disappeared with the arrival of the elephants.

Some time later, the two men heard the drone of a motor in the distance. It was a truck coming up the road. The driver saw the wreckage of the little car and stopped. Mr. Lee and his young friend hurriedly slid down from the tree and told their story. Soon they were safe inside the cab of the big truck and on their way home.

The two men up the tree were in a bad case — they were prisoners in the jungle. Their last means of escape was gone. Night was coming on and the pigs and elephants might return at any moment. Neither one could help the other.

Such is the plight of sinners in this dark world; they are under judgment, for God must punish sin, and “None... can by any means redeem his brother.” Psalms 49:7. And, Satan, the enemy of our souls, is waiting to destroy them.

But, like the kind truck driver who came along, uncalled for and unsolicited, so the Lord Jesus, that blessed Saviour of sinners, Came along the way, saw us in all our need, and took us in. He was the Samaritan in Luke 10 who found the poor man half dead on the side of the road, picked him up, brought him to the inn and cared for him. He first came to die upon the cross for sin; now He lives again in the glory of God to still save and bless poor sinners.

When the Lord once saw a man. Zacchaeus, up in a tree, He said “Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down. For to-day I must abide at thy house.” Zacchaeus was glad to come down and go with Him. Salvation came to his house that day. (Luke 19).

Those today who, realizing their need, “come down” and take Christ as their Saviour, find in Him a refuge, and He is taking them in safety, amidst the dangers and enemies of this world, home to the Father’s house. “So He bringeth them unto their desired haven.” Psalms 107:30.

“We should not trust in ourselves, but in God.” 2 Corinthians 1:9. “Salvation belongeth unto the Lord.” Psalms 3:8

Memory Verse “THE BLOOD OF JESUS CHRIST HIS SON CLEANSETH US FROM ALL SIN.” 1 John 1:7.

Called by the Saviour in youth’s happy day,

Saved by His precious blood,

Sealed by His Spirit, kept by His power,

Made now a child of God.

If any man serve Me, let him follow Me

John 12:26

ML-11/16/1969

Barnacles

SHIPS, large and small, must all go into drydock at times for repairs. Adjustments must be made and accidents create need for repairing. Sometimes the hull needs painting and the joints need welding and caulking. Then oftentimes they must have the barnacles cleared off.

Barnacles are a variety of shellfish which float in the sea until they come into contact with some floating object. They are suckers and fasten themselves to the object and make it their home. At times the ship becomes so covered with barnacles below the waterline that the progress of the ship is hindered. They have been known to become so thick as to even sink a vessel. Scientists tell us that they fasten their heads to the vessel and kick the food into their stomachs with their legs.

Now, like a great ship with many people aboard and sailing along, Christ is carrying countless souls across this ocean of time to the distant heavenly shore. Some people are like barnacles and fasten themselves to the good ship Grace by perhaps joining the church and pressing to be Christians, and say, “We are following Christ.” They are like the barnacles following the ship through the ocean. They appropriate to themselves some of the benefits and blessings of Christianity; but the Apostle says: “If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature.” 2 Corinthians 5:17.

We must be in Christ, not on Christ only — in the ship, not just on the ship outside. When we come to the Lord Jesus as sinners and surrender to Him, He receives us and we are made “new creatures” in Him. He died on Calvary’s cross to put away our sins — oh how great the cost of our redemption! — and His precious blood is our ticket from earth to heaven. It is our title to enjoy all the blessings along the way, and in that glorious land when we get there.

Let each dear reader be sure that he is a “new creature” in Christ Jesus. Some day the great ship will enter port. All who are in Christ will be with Him throughout eternity. All who are only following will be cleaned off like the barnacles, and as they are cast away they will hear Him say: “Depart from Me, I never knew you.”

“I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father but by Me.” John 14:6.

The best Friend to have is Jesus;

He will hear me when I call:

He will keep me lest I fall,

Oh, the best Friend to have is Jesus.

The best thing to do is to trust Him;

And if you on Him depend,

He will keep you to the end;

Oh, the best thing to do is to trust Him.

ML-11/16/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 17:5-7 (Continued)

IN chapters 16 we have the story of the giving of the manna, and in this chapter we have the smiting of the rock which brought forth the gushing waters, both provisions of God for His needy people in the wilderness. Now the Lord Jesus brings these two stories together in a wonderful way in just one verse, showing Himself to be the One shadowed forth in these Old Testament pictures. “And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to Me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst.” John 6:35.

While we have seen in the stream flowing from the rock that which speaks of the Holy Spirit applying the life-giving water to the thirsty soul, we also delight to find the rock itself showing forth in so many ways the Person of Christ. Moses proclaimed: “He is the Rock, His work is perfect.” Of those outside Israel he said: “For their rock is not as our Rock, even our enemies themselves being judges.” Deuteronomy 32:4,31. In Isaiah, He is seen as the Redeemer of Israel, “a hiding place from the wind, and a covert from the tempest; as rivers of water in a dry place, as the shadow of a great rock in a weary land.” Isaiah 32:2.

But until the rock was smitten its life-giving water could not benefit the people. Christ, as the true Rock, would also be of no avail to sinful man unless He had first suffered the stroke of God’s wrath when He bore our sins. As Moses lifted up his rod and smote the rock, causing the water to pour forth, so the judgment of God falling upon His Son released the rivers of God’s grace to a thirsty, perishing world and eternal life for all who believe. “And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will let him take the water of life freely.” Revelation 22:17. How little, we must own, do our hearts conceive the tremendous price paid for our redemption and the amazing love that took the Saviour to the cross that He I might redeem us unto God.

Later on when Moses pleaded with God that he might see His glory, the Lord told him: “Thou canst not see My face; for there shall no man see Me, and live.” If this be so, how then can man draw near to God or dwell in His presence? Ah, Moses was told more: “Behold there is a place by Me, and thou shalt stand upon a rock; And it shall come to pass, while My glory passeth by, that I will put thee in a cleft of the rock, and will cover thee with My hand while I pass by: and I will take away Mine hand, and thou shalt see My back parts; but My face shall not be seen.” Exodus 33:18-23. What a precious picture of how redeemed men may come into God’s presence. Those whose trust is in Christ are hidden forever in “the cleft of the Rock” — that Rock rent for them — and there secure in Him and in the work He has done, they will be brought into that heavenly home where the radiance and glory of God will shine upon them for evermore. No fear of death will ever exist in God’s presence, for they will be, as His children, co-heirs with Christ, made like unto Him, and fit for that holy place.

The Lord looks for a response from the hearts of His own who have found a refuge in Him, as expressed in the words of the Bridegroom: “O my dove, that art in the clefts of the rock, in the secret places of the stairs, let Me see thy countenance, let Me hear thy voice; for sweet is thy voice, and thy countenance is comely.” Song of Solomon 2:14.

ML-11/16/1969

The Hidden Bible

MANY YEARS AGO it was considered wrong to own a Bible in some parts of the world. Many people were put to death for owning a Bible, and for loving the Lord Jesus Christ.

In the valley of the Tyrol in South Austria lived a dear Christian man, Peter Hollman, and his two teenage daughters, Anna and Eloise. They received news that soldiers were coming to see if there were any Christians in the valley. Their first thought was to seek a place for their much-loved Bible, and after wrapping it in many coverings, hid it under the hearthstone by the fireplace.

Soon a band of soldiers burst into the cottage, and after many unkind and angry words, they yelled and threatened the lives of the Christian family. Calmly the Hollmans confessed their faith in Christ. Soon the gleam of swords and the flash of pistols were seen, and the Hollmans entered into the presence of their blessed Lord.

The soldiers then plundered the cottage, but the eye of God was upon the carefully hidden Bible, for it was going to bear fruit for His glory “after many days.”

For thirty years the pretty cottage stood alone, and no one wanted to live there. However, a man named Adolph Pascilin came to the valley with his wife and children, and finding the cottage empty, decided to move in. After making many repairs, he was surprised one day to find, when repairing the fireplace, the carefully wrapped Bible.

“Come here, Annette,” he exclaimed to his wife, “and see what I have found! It must be something of great value by the care that has been taken to preserve it from damp.”

Both Adolph and his wife were very surprised to find it was a Bible, for they had never seen one, and, like most of their neighbors, were quite ignorant of God’s way of salvation. When they read the title page, “The New Testament of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,” Adolph exclaimed, “Let us burn it at once, and so rid the house of wrong doctrine, or it will surely bring trouble!”

“Oh, let us look into it first,” pleaded his wife. “Can’t we read a few of its words? Old Lena, who lives on the other side of the forest, has told me so much about the Ho11-mans, and how loving and kind they were to everyone. If they were good people, it is strange that their Book should be a bad one.”

When Adolph and his wife opened the Bible, a piece of paper fell out, and they read these words: “I and my daughters have heard that those who seek our lives have entered our beloved valley. We will try to conceal this precious Book from their fury. Possibly it may fall into the hands of some person who would wish to know if the words we have loved to read in life, and if the truths we have drawn from it, are enough to support us in death. I answer, never did they seem so true as now; never were they so dear, never did they possess such power to comfort the soul. Stranger, a voice speaks to thee from the dead! It bids thee guard with care what has been purchased for thee by the blood of martyrs. Pray that light from the Holy Spirit may beam upon it, and that thou also may be able to say in thy dying hour, “I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand... Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness. In expectation of our dying hour, Peter, Anna and Eloise Hollman.”

A sob burst from Annette Pascilin and the heart of her husband was deeply moved. “What noble words'', he exclaimed. “I shall never cast into the flames a Book which could give such comfort in life, and such peace in the prospect of a violent death.”

Night after night Adolph read the Bible to his wife, and both were learning, through the Spirit of God, the way of salvation by faith in the finished work of the Lord Jesus. One night Adolph exclaimed, “O Annette, how simple it all is. It is the Lord Jesus Himself who takes away our sins. Not one word is mentioned about doing good deeds and trying to get to heaven by churchgoing or merit.”

At first the Pascilins intended to keep their discovery to themselves, but they soon longed to share with others the joy that was filling their souls. They began by telling their children of the Saviour, and soon they were inviting neighbors to come and hear the wonderful words of God. Week by week the little company grew, and as the years went by, the Pascilins could rejoice over many in their own loved valley who were their sons and daughters in the faith.

“The entrance of Thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.” Psalms 119:130.

Jesus gave her water that was not in the well;

She went away singing,

She came back bringing

Others for the water that was not in the well.

Jesus still gives water that is not in the well;

To all who come believing,

And His Word receiving,

He’ll give the heavenly water that is not in the well.

That means me, that means me,

"Whosoever will may come"; that means me;

I am so very glad because the Saviour said,

"Whosoever will may come"; that means me.

“WHOSOEVER DRINKETH OF THE WATER THAT I SHALL GIVE HIM SHALL NEVER THIRST.” John 4:14.

ML-11/23/1969

Freddy's Seed

ON THE LAST day of school in June, Freddy’s teacher gave each child a seed to plant in his yard A home. Freddy went home and planted his, but it was a long time before he knew what the seed was in September the children brought their plants to school. Sam had a tomato plant, and Margy had a big red flower. But Freddy told his teacher that his plant was still growing in his yard, and he didn’t know yet just what it was.

“Wait a few more weeks,” his teacher said, “and you will soon find out.”

How happy Freddy was a few weeks later to find out that it was a pumpkin plant! Mother made some delicious pumpkin pies out of the pumpkins.

Every Christian boy and girl is planting seeds in his life. I don’t mean real seeds like Freddy planted. We are planting seeds like love, kindness, hate, lying, or unkindness. What kind of seeds are you planting? What you sow in your garden you reap later. If you have Christ as your Saviour, and ask Him to help you to plant seeds of love and kindness, you will get love and kindness in return, and He will give you an eternal reward as well.

“Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” Galatians 6:7.

“Let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” Galatians 6:9.

Memory Verse “THE NAME OF THE LORD IS A STRONG TOWER: THE RIGHTEOUS RUNNETH INTO IT, AND IS SAFE.” Proverbs 18:10.

ML-11/23/1969

Converted at Nine Years

WHEN POLYCARP the martyr was brought before the governor, he said to him, “Are you a Christian?”

“Yes, I am a follower of Jesus.”

“You must renounce Jesus and sacrifice to the idols, or I will have you thrown to the lions.”

But Polycarp refused. The governor grew more angry, and said: “Unless you renounce Jesus, I will have them burn you at the stake.”

Polycarp replied: “These eighty-six years have I served my Lord... and I cannot deny my Lord and Master now.”

They took old Polycarp out and tied him to the stake, but the aged saint stood there triumphant, rejoicing to suffer for the name of Jesus. He was ninety-five years old when he died. He had been a Christian, according to his own testimony, eighty-six years. So he must have been converted when he was nine years of age.

A young boy or girl can be a Christian, and a faithful one too. You have everything to gain by becoming a follower of the Lord Jesus. You will gain a Saviour; the guilt and load of your sins He will take away forever; He will give peace and joy and happiness, and a bright home in heaven with Himself at the end.

“Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for My sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven.” Matthew 5:11,12.

ML-11/23/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 17:8,9

“THEN came Amalek, and fought with Israel in Rephidim.” The children of Israel had no sooner drunk the refreshing waters from the smitten rock, when the Amalekites came and fought against them. The water speaks of the Holy Spirit and immediately after the Holy Spirit comes to dwell in our hearts we have conflict; for “the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other.” Galatians 5:17. Amalek is the power of Satan, acting through the flesh perhaps, but the enemy who sets himself against the people of God. He challenges their onward march and seeks to hinder their progress.

This was the first conflict Israel experienced after they had left Egypt and were now in the wilderness. Up until this point the Lord had taken care of the enemy for Israel, but from this time on they will be seen in personal conflict with their foes. Jehovah who had before fought for them would now make His power manifest in them. Whenever they displayed His banner He gave them victory, but when they failed to look to Him, as was often the case, they suffered defeat. There is no difficulty in applying these principles to ourselves. The way in which the children of Israel gained the victory is very instructive, for it shows the only way of victory for us.

We can see the subtlety of Satan in the time chosen for the attack. It was just after the people had sinned, when it might have been supposed God was displeased with them. But He who had brought them through the waters of the Red Sea would not now leave them to perish at the hands of the great enemy

“And Moses said unto Joshua. Choose us out men, and go out’ fight with Amalek.” Joshua appears for the first time here. He is a type of Christ, in the energy of the Spirit I leading His redeemed people to the conflict. If Satan gathers his forces to harass and fight against the Lord’s people, the Lord Jesus, on the other hand, leads out His chosen ones to meet him. Therefore the battle is the Lord’s. How well it would be for us if in our difficulties and conflicts we counted on the Lord for deliverance and victory.

Deliverance from Satan could only be accomplished by Christ the true Passover Lamb through His death on the cross. He is the manna come down from heaven as the food of His people, and the water is the Holy Spirit. Brought into these blessings, conflict with Satan and the flesh becomes a personal thing with every child of God. And yet Christ, our Joshua, ever appears as the leader of His people; it is only through Him that we can overcome the enemy.

Moses on the top of the hill is a type of Christ now above, interceding for His people. He maintains them in the power of the Spirit bow, while He intercedes for them in the presence of God above. “It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us. Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?... Nay, in all these things we are more than conquers, through Him that loved us.” Romans 8:34-37.

ML-11/23/1969

A Bite in the Dark

A YOUNG fellow named Allen Raymond was traveling through Ceylon. One night as he was in bed, with doors and windows open on account of the heat, he heard, ox felt, that there was something in the room. He called out to a native who slept on the porch, but the man did not hear.

“Nutoo, Nutoo!” he called again, jumping out of bed in fear of some danger. At that moment some anal sprang at his hand and bit it severely. The native woke at last, and hurriedly bringing a light he saw that Allen’s hand was covered with blood.

“Something has bitten me,” ex-

claimed Allen, anxiously. “Look around and call the others — it may attack me again. Find out what it is.”

Several natives came running in, and examined his hand. “A dog’s bite!” they all decided.

“Fetch the doctor at once,” said Allen. “If the thing was mad, I shall die.” And as he said the word, he knew that he was not ready to die. The teaching of his Christian pants in his far-off homeland came to his mind, and he well knew that though he had been a clean living fellow, this would not give him peace in the hour of death. His heart was not right with God.

The doctor came and bound up the wound. “A nasty bite,” he said, “but keep yourself calm — it will soon be better.”

“Shall I have hydrophobia?” asked Allen shakily.

The doctor did not think so.

“But it might be mad,” returned Allen with a shudder. “What should I do then?”

“Try to be quiet, Allen,” said the doctor kindly. “The hand will go on very well if you will do as I tell you.”

Allen could not rest, nevertheless. He paced the floor all the rest of the night, and next day, quite exhausted, he laid quietly on his couch. His friends tried to make light of his fears, but nothing comforted him. Then a Christian man living a few miles away, heard of Allen’s trouble and resolved to ride over and see him.

“I heard you had a nasty experience, Allen,” he said, “and I thought I would like to offer you a word of sympathy.”

Allen thanked him, and said, “They tell me my hand is getting better, but it is very painful, and I feel anxious.”

“What are you anxious about?” asked Mr. Oliver gently, guessing the trouble lay deeper than his hand.

“This may mean my death — a dreadful death,” replied Allen, “and I cannot face it.”

"‘Casting all your care upon Him, for He careth for you'.” quoted Mr. Oliver. “All your care, both of body and soul.”

“But I have not cared for Him,” said Allen, slowly and softly.

“God knows all about that,” continued Mr. Oliver, “yet, as He says, ‘He careth for you'.” Then he brought before Allen the gospel, how that God loved him and sent His blessed Son into this world to die for him, even though he did not appreciate it.

Day after day Mr. Oliver called, giving helpful words, and putting God’s good news simply before the sick young man.

The shock to Allen’s system had been great, but by degrees he grew stronger. Then the doctor strongly advised that he go home for a holiday. Allen did so, but it was a different young man going back than the one who had first gone out to Ceylon. In those weeks of illness, when the terrors of death pressed hard upon his soul, he turned to the God who loved him and sought refuge in His blessed Son, as his Saviour. He went back home with the glad knowledge that he was a redeemed child of God, a sinner saved by grace. After that, Allen was always anxious to spread the good news that had won him to Christ, and delighted to tell of the way God had brought him home.

“Sheep are silly things,” he said one day. “They will run in any direction but the right one; and sometimes the Good Shepherd has to use sterner measures and send a dog to drive the sheep to Himself.”

“All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the LORD hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” Isaiah 53:6.

“I am the Good Shepherd: the Good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep... My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me: and I give unto then eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand.” John 10:11 27, 28

BOTH YOUNG MEN, AND MAIDENS... AND CHILDREN: LET THEM PRAISE THE... LORD.

Psalms 148:12.13

BLESS the Lord, O my soul:

And all that is within me, bless His holy name.

Bless the Lord, O my soul: And forget not all His benefits;

Who forgiveth all thine iniquities:

Who healeth all thy diseases;

Who redeemeth thy life from destruction:

Who crowneth thee with loving-kindness and tender mercies.

Psalms 103:1-4,

Come, ye children, praise the Saviour, praise Him, your undying Friend, Praise Him, till in Heaven you meet Him, there to praise Him without end.

ML-11/30/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 17:10-16

“SO JOSHUA did as Moses had said to him, and fought with Amalek: and Moses, Aaron, and Hur went up to the top of the hill. And it came to pass, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed: and when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed.”

Amalek, that proud enemy of God’s people, was the first to attack them after they came out of Egypt. Israel must fight him, but it was the Lord’s war. Moses, on the top of the hill, interceded with God for his people, by holding up his hands while he prayed for them. When he held up his hands, Israel would win; and when he let his hands down, Amalek won. But Moses’ hands got tired, so Aaron and Hur got a stone for him to sit on, and they held his hands up for him until the sun set. The battle below did not depend upon the strength of the warriors, but on the intercession of Moses. So, “Joshua discomfited Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword.”

The Christian must fight against Satan and the old nature, the flesh, in him, but it is neither natural strength nor human wisdom that enables him to triumph. Victory is entirely dependent upon the uplifted hands of the Lord Jesus, our Mediator on high. In this conflict we are made to feel that we must depend entirely on Him who is not in the fight, but outside it, and above it all. In Him we have a better Intercessor than Moses, for His uplifted arms never grow weary. Nevertheless, although victory is assured, the fight must be maintained to the very last. Perhaps you might think that if God made war, it would soon be over. But though He had said, “I will utterly put out the remembrance of Amalek from under heaven,” He had also sworn that “the LORD will have war with Amalek from generation to generation.” This is a war that must be carried on unceasingly by His people; but the battle is His and He is our leader. He is pleading for us above. He knows all about us and our every weakness, but in His strength we can go forward counting on Him for the victory. We can be just as sure of victory as Israel was, if we go to Him for grace to help in time of need.

Aaron brings before us the Lord Jesus as our great High Priest, and Hur means “purity.” This then would tell us that the Lord Jesus intercedes for us before God according to what He is in Himself, in holiness and purity.

“And Moses built an altar, and called the name of it Jehovah-nissi,” which means, “The Lord is my banner.” A banner is a flag bearing the colors under which an army fights. Some regiments have magnificent banners, telling of battles they have won. Moses said that the Lord was his banner. God was showing how He cared for His people. And it is the same today, for He never forgets His own dear children.

How good it is to belong to God! When He has all His children gathered home in the glory, the conflict with Satan, the world and the flesh, will all be over. We shall be perfectly like Christ then, and shall sit down and enjoy His blessed presence, without an enemy, a cloud, or an unholy thought, to mar our joy in Him through all eternity.

ML-11/30/1969

A Free Gift

MR. BARKER was an evangelist. When he preached the gospel he would make it clear that salvation is the free gift of God and not to be gained any other way.

Once he was staying at the home of a friend who had a son, 10 years old, named Harold. One day Harold said to him: “Mr. Barker, tomorrow is sport’s day at school. Would you like to come?” Mr. Barker said he would be delighted, and then Harold told him he was in one of the races.

The next day Harold met his friend at the gate and escorted him around the field. Then showing him a glass case, Harold pointed out some of the prizes to be awarded to the winners. “Do you see that watch there, Mr. Barker,” exclaimed Harold; “that’s first prize in the race I’ve entered, and it’s going to be mine.”

Mr. Barker wished his young friend good success and waited early to see the race. But the competition proved too keen for Harold. Two other boys came in first and second, and the best Harold could do was to place third. When the prizes were being handed out Harold’s face fell with disappointment as the beautiful watch was handed to another boy. He said nothing at the time, nor did Mr. Barker.

A few days later it was Harold’s birthday, and he remarked to his friend, Mr. Barker, “Tomorrow’s my birthday, and I’m going to get lip early and open my presents which will be all laid out on the table downstairs.” Sure enough the boy was up early the next morning, but Mr. Barker was up before him and was waiting downstairs to see Har old’s joy and surprise when he opened his gifts.

When Harold appeared he brushed aside the larger packages and picked up a small package in the center. It was a beautiful silver watch, the gift of his parents. Putting it to his ear he exclaimed joyfully, “It’s going!”

It was here that Mr. Barker stepped forward and said: “Harold, you wanted a silver watch, and you tried your best to win one at your school sports; but you failed. Now what you could not earn by your own efforts you have received as a free gift. That is like God’s gift of eternal life. It cannot be earned by our own efforts or good works, but it must be accepted as the free gift of God.

“For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23.

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of your-

selves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast.”

Ephesians 2:8,9. — A. N.

Memory Verse “THOU ART A GOD READY TO PARDON.” Nehemiah 9:17.

ML-11/30/1969

A Night with Lions

Kulu lived in Africa, and Christian missionaries had come to a town not too far away from her home. She often ran away to the Christian school, for she was so very anxious to hear more about Jesus and His love. Her mother was very angry each time she went, and in despair she handed Kulu over to the witchdoctor to see what he could do with her. At all costs she must be prevented from seeing those Christians, and from their God who had “such uncanny power to change lives.”

The witchdoctor, keeping Kulu in the dark, first tried to scare her into obedience by his gruesome incantations, and grisly magic. This failed, however, and she slipped off again to school. Then he forced bitter medicines into her to kill off “this new batch of microbes"—which nearly killed her! But when her strength returned, there she was at the school again!

The disappointed mother thought of one more thing to do. She took Kulu into the forest, and bound her to a tree with bark rope, and said to her, “A worthless child you are to me, and you can just be food for the lions!” So she left her, and there Kulu was all night in the dreary African forest.

But surely the angel of the Lord encamped about that tree, for when early in the morning a Christian boy found her, and cut her loose, he saw lion tracks encircling the spot. He noticed that not one lion had dared to come within four arms lengths of her. Kulu had seen their glaring eyes as moving balls of fire, but she said she remembered what she had learned in the Christian school, that God had made the lions and that He had made her too. So fear left her. She felt so sure God wouldn’t let the great beasts eat her up.

Wasn’t that wonderful faith on the part of a little girl! In Psa. 34:7 we read, “The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear Him, and delivereth them.” The Lord will be with you too, dear young friends, if you trust Him.

“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” Psa. 27:1.

ML-12/07/1969

Daphne's Paper

THIS remarkable event took place I in a seaside town in England about 25 years ago. A Christian lady had a Sunday School class on the beach each Lord’s day, and many children would come to hear the sweet story of Jesus and His love. Often the lady would tell a story illustrating a Bible verse, and then let the children color a picture with the verse on it. One little girl named Daphne often went to the meetings, and one day, busy with her paper and crayons, wrote on hers, “Daphne, age 11. Jesus said, I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life: no man cometh unto the Father but by Me. John 14:6. Give thy heart to Me.”

After Sunday School was over, Daphne forgot to take her paper home, and the incoming tide washed the paper out to sea. But God must have had His eye on that little per, and He was going to use it in blessing to a sailor on a ship at sea. The sailor tells this story: “I worked on a small ship, and one night I hauled up a bucket of water and found floating on top of it that paper. When I saw the name `Daphne’ written there, it seemed a voice from the grave, for I had just buried my own little girl back home six months ago, and her name was Daphne too. It just seemed as if my little girl was telling me to give my heart to the Lord. I knew full well that I needed to be a better man. I could swear and gamble like the other sailors. But the longer I looked at that paper, the more I seemed to hear my little girl’s voice telling me to give myself to God. How could I give myself to God? — by yielding myself to Christ. I got down on my knees soon after, and God saved me! I determined that if I ever had the opportunity, I would try to find where the paper came from, and when I came back to port I asked if anyone knew of children’s services that were being held on the beach. Eventually I was told about the Christian lady, and came and told her what blessing that paper had been to me.”

The Lord Jesus, the Good Shepherd, knows how and where to find His lost sheep. A seeking sinner and a seeking Saviour always meet. Has He found you yet? Do you know your sins are forgiven? If not, the Good Shepherd is seeking for you.

“I am the Good Shepherd: the Good Shepherd giveth His life for the sheep.” John 10:11.

“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.

Memory Verse “IF THOU SEEK HIM, HE WILL BE FOUND OF THEE.” 1 Chron. 28:9.

God’s love is like the sunshine,

That brightens land and sea;

It fills my heart with gladness

For I know that God loves me.

ML-12/07/1969

Bible Talks

Ex. 18:1-12

NOW WE have a family scene out in the desert. It is God Himself 1010 has formed the family, and where the Lord Jesus is owned as saviour and Lord in the home, what happy times are enjoyed there. Today Satan is hard at work seeking Ito undermine and break up the family circle, for he knows that when family life has disappeared from the home, when there are no regular gatherings for prayer and reading the Word of God, when the home is broken, it will lead to the ruin of society and the downfall of the nation. As the days grow darker and much of what God has instituted for man’s blessing is disappearing from our generation, the Christian can take comfort in knowing that God is gathering His family out from the nations of this doomed world. Soon He shall call His redeemed children away from earth to heaven, to dwell with Christ in the Father’s house forever.

Perhaps you remember that Moses and his wife, Zipporah, had a little son born to them while he was a stranger in the land of Midian. He called him Gershom, “for he said, I have been an alien in a strange land.” Then God gave them another little son, and they called him Eliezer; “for the God of my father, said he, was mine help, and delivered me from the sword of Pharaoh.” The names of these two boys are significant. Gershom tells of Israel’s strangership now while they are away from their own land, but Eliezer speaks of God’s deliverance in power from the world and all their enemies in a coming day.

But Moses had sent the little boys and their mother back to her father, Jethro, in Midian, while the terrible judgments were falling on the land of Egypt, and here in Zipporah, the Gentile wife of Moses, we have a picture of the Church who will be removed from earth to heaven dung the time when the awful judgments of God will be falling upon this world in the great tribulation. Then after the tribulation, the Church will return with Christ when He comes back to reign. Jethro had heard of all that God had done for Moses, and how he had brought his people out of Egypt, “and Jethro... came with his sons and his wife unto Moses into the wilderness, where he encamped at the mount of God.”

“And Moses told his father-in-law all that the LORD had done unto Pharaoh and to the Egyptians for Israel’s sake, and all the travail that had come upon them by the way, and how the LORD delivered them.... And Jethro rejoiced for all the goodness which the LORD had done to Israel... and Jethro said, Blessed be the LORD, who hath delivered you out of the hand of the Egyptians, and out of the hand of Pharaoh.... Now I know that the LORD is greater than all gods: for in the thing wherein they dealt proudly He was above them.”

Here we have a beautiful picture of the future millennial kingdom and the glorious reign of Christ. Moses is a type of Christ as King, and, as mentioned, Zipporah, the Church, His bride. Next, we have the tribes of Israel, all in their proper place and order. Then we have the Gentile as seen by Jethro’s blessing and confessing Jehovah’s name, for when Jethro heard the wonderful works of God concerning the Israelites, he praised God and rejoiced greatly. The Gentiles in that day will rejoice for all the goodness the Lord will have done to Israel in delivering them from the hands of all their enemies from first to last. Like Jethro, they will come up to see the glory of the Lord at Jerusalem and will rejoice before Him. (2 Chron. 9:1-12; Rev. 21:24.)

“And Jethro... took a burnt offering and sacrifices for God: and Aaron came, and all the elders of Israel, to eat bread with Moses’ father-in-law before God.” It is a wonderful picture of the joy and gladness and blessing that shall flow out when Christ shall be King over the earth. The knowledge of these things, dear young Christian, should make us, who are the Lord’s, to rejoice now in thoughts of our saviour’s exaltation and glorious reign, He will set all things right in this, world then. Now righteousness suffers, but in that day righteousness shall reign.

ML-12/07/1969

The Young People's Class: Joshua

1. What was Joshua commanded to do after their enemies heard how the Lord had brought Israel over the Jordan? Josh. 5.

2. What is it that true circumcision can never have confidence in? Phil. 3.

3. What change of food did Israel have as soon as they entered the promised land? Josh. 4. Where should the desires and affections of the Christian be now that he is risen with Christ? Col. 3.

5. What did Joshua do when he found himself in the presence of the One whose strength and power was to lead Israel against their enemies? Josh.

6. In whom is the Christian exhorted to find his strength and power? Eph. 6.

7. Against what mighty forces is the Christian called upon to wrestle? Eph.

ML-12/07/1969

A Coyote Story

RIDING his pony one day out on the range, with Renee, the camp dog along, the son of a ranch owner came upon a baby coyote all alone. The coyote cub whimpered and, seemingly without fear, endeavored to get close up to the little mother dog, a mongrel terrier. But Renee already had a brood of her own pups, and she brushed him off with a snarl. Steve, however, was a tender-hearted fellow, and picking up the coyote pup he brought him back to camp. The little fellow was put in a chicken-coop reinforced with wire netting, and fed some milk. There he cried all night for sheer loneliness.

The next day Renee’s pups were all disposed of as unwanted, and as the cries of the little coyote sounded forth the next night, grief-stricken Renee’s motherly instincts rose within her. Going to the coop, she gnawed a hole through the netting, and brought the little coyote out. She hid him under the woodpile, and there for many days the cub thrived on milk that was originally intend for seven. The camp men had decided that the coyote’s mother had come and set him free. Never did he appear during daylight, but at night he would emerge and make short forays around the barnyard.

Then chickens began to disappear, and when one of the men found a heap of feathers around the woodpile he decided that rats were eating the chickens; so he set some small traps for the marauders. The coyote pup had his first experience with traps when cruel jaws, full of sharp teeth, closed on his front leg. The pain was terrible, and though after some time he shook the dreadful thing off, it left him with one lame That was his last night under the woodpile. With Renee at his side he headed for the open spaces where he would fend for himself like other coyotes. Renee returned home bore morning, but the coyote would come back to the ranch night after night and together they would sally forth on hunting expeditions. Their friendship would only be broken by death.

Some time later, one crisp wintry morning, Cy the cowboy and wolf trapper, was making his rounds when he came upon a sight that fairly stunned him. The mystery of the missing coyote was solved. There was Renee, the terrier, crouching in the snow, shivering with cold and fright, one foot numb and held fast in one of his traps; but otherwise she was unhurt. Curled up beside her was a little coyote with one crippled paw—he looked as if he were sleeping; but he was dead, his body cored with bites and gashes. Then some feet away was the body of a huge black wolf, his foot caught in another trap, his fur also torn and mangled — he too was dead. All around the trampled snow gave evidence of the awful battle that had been fought under the stars that night.

To the experienced old trapper it was not hard to put the facts tether. Renee had been the first to get caught in the trap. She did not possess the sense nor the cunning of the coyote. He may have come along later. And then the huge wolf must have appeared, intent on killing. The little coyote, instead of fleeing, stood his ground between the helpless terrier and the great enemy. In the battle the wolf was caught in another trap, and the pain would only intensify his rage. The struggle must have gone on for a long time, until finally, when all was over, only the terrier remained alive.

Thus the little coyote died defending the only one who had ever shown him love in his little lifetime.

There was One, dear young reader who gave His life for us, to save us from the foe, and yet in the heart of man there was no love for Him. There was nothing in us to draw out His favor, but it was the love in His heart for us when we were snared by Satan, chained by our sins, guilty, helpless, ready to die, that brought Him forth from those palaces of love. He died for us!

“When we were enemies we were reconciled to God by the death of His Son.” — Romans 5:10.

Thus the little coyote’s devotion, even to death, it seems to us, tells of how even among the creatures of the wild we can read the wonderful story of love: “love is of God ... for God is love.” 1 John 4:8,9.

There will be no love in hell, dear reader.

Oh may the story of a dying Saviour’s love, giving Himself in death upon the cross for sinners, melt many proud hard hearts this day, and bring them to the feet of Jesus, to confess Him as Saviour and Lord. He is worthy!

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

All worlds His glorious power confess,

His wisdom all His works express;

But oh, His love!—what tongue can tell?

"Our Jesus hath done all things well.”

Let everything that hath breath praise the Lord: Praise ye the Lord. Psalms 1:50:6

ML-12/14/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 18:13-27

“AND IT CAME to pass on the morrow, that Moses sat to judge the people: and the people stood by Moses from the morning unto the evening... And Moses’ father-in-law said unto him, The thing that thou doest is not good. Thou wilt surely wear away, both thou, and this people that is with thee: for this thing is too heavy for thee; thou art not able to perform it thyself alone... provide out of all the people able men, such as fear God, men of truth, hating covetousness; and place such over them, to be rulers of thousands, and rulers of hundreds, rulers of fifties, and rulers of tens. And let them judge the people at all seasons: and it shall be, that every great matter they shall bring unto thee, but every small matter they shall judge:... So Hoses hearkened to the voice of his father-in-law, and did all that he had said.”

It would seem that Moses acted upon this advice of Jethro, his father-in-law, without consulting God. If so, then this was a failure on Moses’ part. Jethro was a remarkable man, and his counsel was wise and prudent, according to man; yet In reality, it left God out and made the health of Moses its chief aim, whereas, it was not Moses, but the Lord, through Moses, who bore the burden of the people. It was not a question of the strength of Moses, but of his resources in God. If the Lord gives us a work to do for Him, dear young Christian, there may be difficulties, but the difficulties should be measured, not by what we are, but by what He is. Has He not told us, “My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness,” 2 Corinthians 12:9? May we learn to bring everything to God in prayer, for He loves us, and knows our needs and limitations beer than anyone else, and will pride wisdom and strength for whatever He gives us to do for Him. “As thy days, so shall thy strength be.” Deuteronomy 33:25.

Whatever the failure of Moses may have been, God uses this arrangement for administering justice and judgment in Israel, to give us a picture of the government of the world under Christ in the reign of glory that is coming. For in that blest millennial day, “the government shall be upon His shoulder: and His name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, the Mighty God, the Everlasting Father, the Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6. How much corruption there is in government today, how often a criminal gets off with a lighter sentence than he deserves, and often the innocent have to suffer. But when the Lord Jesus reigns, He will rule in righteousness — His government will be perfect. Then there will be a display of righteous judgment on earth before all the world. However, we as Christians, should remember that we cannot expect to see perfect justice in this unrighteous world. We should be thankful for the government we have, which permits us the liberties and privileges we have under God in these favored lands; but the world has rejected the only “just One,” they have murdered and cast Him out, and now we can expect to suffer if we walk in His ways.

It is part of our Christian heritage while our Lord is rejected, for “Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake.” Philippians 1:29. Nevertheless, when the Lord Jesus reigns in righteousness, as He will before very long, then we too shall reign with Him.

After seeing all the wonders that the Lord had wrought, Jethro turned and went back to his own land. Moses, on the other hand, “chose rather to suffer affliction with the people of God.” Hebrews 11:25. God’s way to His land led through the wilderness; and so it is for us. We are pilgrims passing through this wilderness world, but it is the way to that heavenly land and to the rest of God above.

ML-12/14/1969

The Precious Blood

A CARAVAN was crossing to the north of India and in the company was a faithful Christian missionary. As they passed along, a poor old native was overcome by the heat and toil of the journey. Sinking down he was left to perish on the side of the road. The missionary saw him and kneeling down beside him, when the rest had passed on, he whispered in his ear, “Brother, what is your hope?”

The dying man raised himself a little to reply, and with great effort succeeded in answering, “The blood of Jesus Christ... cleanseth us from all sin!” Then he expired with the effort. The missionary was greatly astonished at his answer, and at the calm peaceful appearance of the old man. He felt sure he had died trusting in Christ. But how, or where, he thought, could this man, seemingly a heathen, have gotten hold of this hope?”

As he thought about it, he observed a piece of paper grasped tightly in the hand of the dead man, and he succeeded in getting it out. What was his surprise and delight when he found it was a single page from the Bible, containing chapter 1 of the First Epistle of John, in which these precious words are found: “The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.” On that page the dear old man had found the gospel, which “is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth.” Romans 1:16.

Dear young friends, think of how many privileges you have, compared with this poor native Indian. You have been brought up in a Christian country, and perhaps you have been taught the precious truths of the Bible from childhood, but do you know what it is to be cleansed from all your sins by the blood of Christ, so that they are blotted out of God’s sight forever? Could you say, as a little girl once did, “The blood of Jesus settles it all for me"? The Lord Jesus is coming soon, perhaps today. If you are not under the shelter of the blood of Christ, do not delay any longer. Trust him now. Tomorrow may be too late.

Memory Verse “YE TURNED TO GOD FROM IDOLS TO SERVE THE LIVING AND TRUE GOD; AND TO WAIT FOR HIS SON FROM HEAVEN.” 1 Thessalonians 1:9,10.

ML-12/14/1969

Dobry and the Raven

IN A village near Warsaw many years ago there lived a Christian peasant named Dobry. His wife had been sick, and so through no fault of his he had gotten behind with his rent.

His landlord was a very hard-hearted man, and although it was winter, he threatened to turn Dobry out of his house unless the rent was paid. Dobry went to see him three times to say how ill his wife had been, that this had prevented him from paying his rent, and that he would be sure to pay if he would allow him a little more time. But the landlord would not listen. He said he was coming next morning to turn Dobry out.

That evening Dobry went home feeling very sad, and gathered his family around him for prayer. He told God all about their trouble and asked Him to please send them help

in some way. After prayer they sang

a hymn, beginning with the words:

“Commit thou all thy griefs

And ways into His hands.”

The closing lines of the last verse were these:

“When Thou wouldst all our need supply,

Who, who shall stay Thy hand?”

While they were singing the last verse a gentle tapping was heard at the window. An old friend was there. It was a raven that Dobry’s grandfather had taken out of a nest while young. He had tamed it and set it at liberty. He often came to the cottage, and if he found the door shut, he would light on the windowsill and tap the windowpane until they let him in.

Dobry rose and opened the window as usual. In hopped the raven, but what should he be holding in his bill but a gold ring set with diamonds and precious stones! The raven laid the ring down before their wondering eyes. Here was God’s wonderful answer to their prayer, an answer that filled the hearts of all the family with joy and thanksgiving.

At first Dobry thought he would sell the ring and pay his rent with the price of it. But afterward he thought it would be better to take it to the minister and ask his advice. He did so, and as soon as the mister had seen the ring he knew that it belonged to the royal family of Poland. He took the ring to the King, and told him the story of the poor peasant, Dobry.

The king was so pleased that he sent for Dobry and gave him a handsome reward. Now Dobry had plenty to pay his rent with, and enough to buy food for his family all through the long winter. When spring came the king had a new house built for Dobry, and gave him some cattle from his own stalls. Over the door of the new house there was a cast-iron tablet on which was the figure of a raven with a ring in his beak. Underneath was a verse from the hymn they were singing when the raven came as God’s messenger to bring them relief.

We may be sure that whenever Dobry read the words of the text: “Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in My name, He will give it you,” (John 16:23), he would surely feel that it was a wonderful promise for a time of trouble.

This happened many years ago yet the Lord abides the same today’ wherever there is faith to trust Him, “Jesus Christ the Same yesterday, and today, and forever.” Hebrews 13:8, But in order that we may be able to rest on the precious promises found in God’s holy Word, we must first know God as our Father and His beloved Son as our Saviour. Oh, dear reader, do you know the Lord Jesus as your Saviour?

“And this is life eternal, that they might know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent.” John 17:3.

Memory Verse “I HAVE TRUSTED IN THY MERCY; MY HEART SHALL REJOICE IN THY SALVATION.” Psalms 13:5.

ML-12/21/1969

A Story of Queen Victoria

Queen Victoria was in the habit of visiting a number of her old servants to whom she had given little homes on her estate. She was very fond of one old lady who had given her long and faithful service in years gone by. She would go and sit with her and while knitting, they would talk together.

On one occasion, a niece of the old servant stepped in to see her aunt. After awhile, the Queen read the 14th chapter of John’s Gospel. Then closing the Bible, the Queen asked the young girl, “My child, are you a Christian?”

“I certainly am, your Majesty,” was the answer.

“How do you know you are?” continued the Queen.

“Well, I was baptized, then confirmed.”

“Good! Now let us pray together,” said the Queen, so she prayed, “Please, Lord, open the eyes of this young girl so that she may learn that she cannot be a child of Thine until her heart is changed. Help her to see her state of sinfulness before Thee. Direct her gaze toward the cross of Christ, so that she may believe that He gave Himself for her, and may she learn that no external religious practice can save her soul.”

The young girl took Christ as her Saviour, and the great joy of her life was to tell others of her own salvation. She would say, “I have often sung ‘God save the Queen,’ but I never thought that the Queen herself would ask God to save me!”

“Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to His mercy He saved us.” Titus 3:5.

In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. If I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself: God’s house is filling fast—“Yet there is room!” Some guest will be the last-“Yet there is room!”

John 14:2-3

ML-12/21/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 1:9:1-9

“IN THE third month, when the children of Israel were gone forth out of the land of Egypt, the same day came they into the wilderness of Sinai.” This chapter marks a turning point in God’s ways with His people. God was about to lo something very different with them from what He had ever done or any other nation. They were to be tested in a new way. Thus far He had dealt with them in pure grace. Out of the goodness of His own heart, and governed by no conditions whatsoever on their part, He had delivered them from Egypt and brought them all the way to Sinai, having promised to bring them and give them that beautiful land that flowed with milk and honey. However, this grace only brought out their disobedience, rebellion, and in. Now they were to be tried under law. Would they obey His voice and keep His covenant? If so, He would less them on that ground.

Moses was to tell the people: “Ye have seen what I did unto the Egyptians, and how I bare you on eagles’ wings, and brought you unto Myself. Now therefore if ye will obey My voice indeed and keep My covenant, then ye shall be a peculiar treasure unto Me above all people: for all the earth is Mine; and ye shall be unto Me a kingdom of priests, and a holy nation.”

God reminds them in a most touching way of all that He had done for them, and now to test them He says, as it were: “Thus far I have done everything for you. But from now on I propose to make your standing before Me and your blessings depend on your obedience and works. Are you willing to go on on these terms?”

Moses called the elders of Israel together and put the question before them. How well it had been for them had they only remembered how many times they had murmured, disobeyed, and wanted to turn back to Egypt. How much beer it would have been if they had told God how helpless and guilty they were, and confessed that they were not able to keep His holy law. Had they considered their past they would have said: “We have disobeyed time after time, and we fear the same things might happen again, and then we lose all. Let us cast ourselves upon the same grace and mercy that has brought us thus far, and which will preserve us the rest of the way.”

But Israel did not consider nor remember. Rather they answered at once, “All that the LORD hath spoken we will do.” How self-confident they were! All their past experiences had gone for nothing. They had not learned the goodness of God nor their own evil hearts. Instead of clinging to what God was for them, they made everything depend on what they would be to God, and this is law-keeping.

How many today are putting themselves under law and expecting to earn the favor of God in this way. How many are hoping to get to heaven by their own good works. Even though thousands of year have rolled by, during which not one soul has ever kept the law (apart from the Lord Jesus Himself), countless people still are trying, only to put themselves under its curse: “For as many as are of the works of the law are under the curse.” Galatians 3:10. The sinner (and we are all sinners) cannot keep the holy law of God; we ought not to prose something for the future, but rather to say like the poor publican, “God be merciful to me a sinner.” Luke 18:13.

ML-12/21/1969

Wounded for Me

IT WAS during the World War, when Britain was experiencing some of the terrible air raids, that an aged preacher was staying at a London hotel. He was walking down the street one day when he came up with a wounded soldier who was painfully making his way along with crutches. The old minister stopped. “Thank you,” he said earnestly, “Thank you for being wounded for me!” The soldier looked up in astonishment. It had never occurred to him in that light. It made the heavy burden he had to bear a little easier that someone had cared to stop and thank him. The soldier was amazed!

Then the quiet voice went on: “I can tell you of Someone who was wounded for you.” The look of surprise deepened.

“Wounded for me, sir?”

“Yes,” said the old man. “Wounded for our transgressions, bruised for our iniquities, the chastisement of our peace was upon Him, and with His stripes we are healed.” Then he told him very simply the wonderful story of the cross and of the Saviour who had hung and died there for him.

As I read this story in bed that night, it seemed to thrill me—losses and terrible war experiences seemed to fade, and the simple old gospel story shone out brighter than ever. That night it gripped me afresh. I felt I would like to sing forever, “Wounded for Me.” He, the blessed Son of God, was wounded for me! The words of the chorus came to me and, fearing I might forget them in the morning, I got out of bed and put them on paper, and then in a few days sat down to the piano and found the little tune. Hundreds of thousands of copies of this chorus have been sent out and many have been helped. May it help you, dear reader. Do you believe “He was wounded for you?” He was. Receive Him, thank Him, and then serve Him with gladness until you see Him face to face.

Wounded for me, wounded for me;

There on the cross He was wounded for me;

Gone my transgressions and now I am free,

All because Jesus was wounded for me.

ML-12/21/1969

Man Overboard!

ONE DAY Hudson Taylor, the well-known missionary, was traveling in a Chinese junk up the river from Shanghai to Ningpo. On board was a Chinese fellow-traveler who had visited Europe and other lands. In England he was known by the name of Peter. He had often heard the gospel preached, though he had never given his heart to God. Hudson Taylor did all he could to encourage him to put his trust in the Lord and become a Christian. Peter was greatly moved, even to tears, by what he heard, but apparently had made no decision.

When the junk had nearly reached the large city to which they were going, Hudson Taylor went into the cabin to get some tracts and gospel books to pass out to people in the streets. Suddenly he was startled by a splash and a loud cry. Springing on deck he saw at once that Peter had fallen overboard, while everyone else looked on helplessly and did nothing.

A strong wind was carrying the junk upstream and there were no trees or buildings on the bank to show how far behind the drowning man was. In an instant Hudson Taor sprang to the mast, let down the sail and then leaped overboard in hopes of finding his friend. But alas, he was without success, for the water had closed over poor Peter. Loong around in an agony of suspense Hudson saw a fishing boat close by with a drag net furnished with hooks. He knew at once that this would be just the thing to save the man.

“Come,” he cried, with hope rising in his heart, “Come and drag here; a man is drowning.”

“It’s not convenient,” was the callous response.

“Don’t talk of convenience,” he cried again in an agony; “a man is drowning.” “We are busy fishing,” they replied, “and cannot come.”

“Never mind your fishing; I’ll give you more money than many days fishing will bring; only come—come at once!”

“How much money will you give us?”

“Oh, don’t stop to discuss that now,” cried Hudson in exasperation. “Come at once, or it will be too late.

I will give you five dollars [worth perhaps twenty dollars now].”

“We won’t do it for that,” they replied. “Give us twenty dollars and we will come.”

“I don’t possess so much, but come quickly and I will give you all I have,” said Hudson. “How much may that be,” they asked.

“I don’t know exactly, but about fourteen dollars.”

At last, but ever so slowly, the fishing boat paddled over and let down its net. In less than a minute the body of the missing man was found and brought on board. However, all efforts to revive him were without success. It was too late; he was drowned. But even while Huon Taylor and others worked over him to try and restore breathing, these callous fishermen actually clamored for their money and became indignant at the delay.

How vast the difference between the hearts of those Chinese fishermen and that of the Lord Jesus, Saviour of sinners. He alone knows the value of a soul. “None... can by any means redeem his brother, nor give to God a ransom for him: [for the redemption of their sold is precious, and it ceaseth forever].. Psalms 49:7,8. Not all the gold in an the world can redeem a lost soul. “Without the shedding of blood is no remission.” Hebrews 9:22.

No, the Son of God must come from the glory and shed His precious blood upon the cross of Calvary to redeem our lost souls. And so Peter tells us we are not redeemed “with corruptible things, as silver and gold,... but with the precious blood of Christ.” 1 Peter 1:18. Dear reader, have you been redeemed? Is it well with your soul?

How sad to think of that poor Chinese Peter dying perhaps unsaved. But may it be a fresh warning to any unsaved reader not to put off the salvation of your soul. Turn to the Lord now, while you have the opportunity. Tomorrow may be too late.

And may we who know the Lord not be like those Chinese fishermen — indifferent to those who are perishing all around us; but rather let us go and press on souls the urgency of being saved while it is yet the day of grace.

"C" stands for children, though they’re young and small;

"O” stands for old folk, Jesus wants them all;

"M" stands for middle-aged, they to Christ must bow;

“E” stands for everybody—come to Jesus now!

Trust ye in the Lord forever

Isaiah 26:4

Be thankful unto Him

Psalms 100:4

How happy, how happy, how happy is he

Whose sins are all buried far under the sea,

Who’s trusting in Jesus, his Shield and his Tower,

And daily is proving His keeping power.

WHOSO TRUSTETH IN THE LORD, HAPPY IS HE. Proverbs 16:20

ML-12/28/1969

Bible Talks

Exodus 19:10-15

THE PEOPLE of Israel had all answered together and said to Moses, “All that the LORD hath spoken we will do.” They really had undertaken what the Lord Jesus undertook in Psalms 40:7,8, when He said, “Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of Me, I delight to do Thy will, O My God: yea, Thy law is within My heart.” But what a difference! The Lord Jesus was the real and living Servant of God, that glorious One, who was the brightness of that glory and had every title to be there. He came in perfect love and willingness to do the will of God. He went forth from God. But how different the people of Israel who were sinners and had to be kept at a distance from God by a barrier, even when they were seeking by their own works to earn a title to be in His presence.

What God proposed to Israel was a perfectly righteous thing. For from the time that Adam and Eve fell, He has presented grace as the only hope for a sinner. But man would continually take the place of self-righteousness, and think he could still work out his own salvation; therefore, God’s law put him thoroughly to the test.

May we profit by the lesson God would teach His people Israel, and learn to cast our souls upon the grace and mercies of God. “For 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.” Ephesians 2:8,9.

“And the LORD said unto Moses, Go unto the people, and sanctify them today and tomorrow, and let them wash their clothes, and be ready against the third day: for the third day the LORD will come down in the sight of all the people upon mount Sinai.”

Moses did go down from the mount and sanctified the people. They did wash their clothes, but they were soon to learn how futile were their efforts at best. For though they might wash their clothes ever so clean, so that no human eye could detect any defilement, still there was the question always on their consciences, “Could they so cleanse themselves as to be able to bear the inspection of a holy God?” The fact is man cannot cleanse himself for God, and this is one of the great lessons of Scripture. Job says, “If I wash myself with snow water, and make my hands never so clean; yet shalt thou plunge me in the ditch, and mine own clothes shall abhor me.” chapters 9:30,31. Again, the Lord Himself has said, speaking to Israel, “Though thou wash thee with nitre, and take thee much soap, yet thine iniquity is marked before Me.” Jeremiah 2:22.

God gave Israel this commandment to teach them their ruin and guilty condition, for, in spite of their “sanctifying” and “washing,” they were terrified at the voice of God and could not draw near to Him. Washing one’s clothes speaks of changing one’s ways and associations. And how often this is the experience of a sinner. He tries to improve himself, or turn over a new leaf, and seek the favor of God in this way, but he soon discovers that the only effect of all his efforts is to bring to light his own sinfulness. One might strive to live a clean, honest life, and in this way weave a robe of self-righteousness around himself, but the moment he gets into the presence of God, he finds his robe of righteousness nothing but filthy rags. The only thing that can cleanse every spot and stain and make us fit for the presence of God’s holiness is the blood of Jesus Christ, His Son. (1 John 1:7; Rev. 1:5.)

ML-12/28/1969

How God Used a Little Boy

YEARS AGO a man who lived among the pines in the forests of Michigan, became seriously ill, and went by train to town to see a doctor. On his way home, while waiting in the station for his train, he chatted with another traveler to whom he told the reason for his journey. The doctor had said he could only live a few months longer.

“How do you feel about dying?” asked his companion. “Have you thought about what is coming after death?”

“Oh,” said the sick man, “I do not fear death.”

“Why?” asked the other.

The sick man then told him how it had come about; it is a short but beautiful story of faith in the holy Word of God.

He had lived all his life among the pines. Neither he nor his wife could read; they had seldom heard a sermon, and although they knew what the Bible is, they did not own one.

Their little boy had gone to school one winter and had learned to read. One day he met a man on the road who spoke to him and gave him a Testament. It followed that at night, when the day’s work was done, and while all sat around the fire, the boy used to read to his father and mother. One night he read from I Timothy 1 until he came to vs. 15 “This is a faithful saying and worthy of all acceptation, that Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners, of whom I am chief.”

“Stop!” said the father. “wife, listen to that! We are sinners and Christ Jesus came into the world to save us. Isn’t that good?”

“Yes,” said his wife; “that is good. Let us thank God for it.”

And in their humble cabin, on their knees before God, they thanked Him for His great gift, which in simple faith they had just accepted.

“And,” said the sick man, in telling the story, “why should I be afraid to die, when Christ Jesus has saved me?”

So the little boy was a link in the chain of blessing in that home. It was a joyful message which fell on the ears of those repentant sinners and they received it with joy. Reader, have you received this same joyful message and believed it?

ML-12/28/1969

The Little Things

I cannot do great things for Him

Who did so much for me;

But I would like to show my love,

Lord Jesus, unto Thee.

There are small crosses I may take,

Small burdens I may bear;

Small acts of faith and deeds of love,

Small sorrows I may share.

There are small things in daily life

In which I may obey;

And thus may show my love to Thee,

At all times — every day!

I ask Thee, Lord, to give me grace

My little place to fill;

That I may ever walk with Thee,

And seek to do Thy will.

Memory Verse “WE HAVE REDEMPTION THROUGH HIS BLOOD, EVEN THE FORGIVENESS OF SINS.” Col. 1:14.

ML-12/28/1969

Messages of God's Love: 1969

Table of Contents

"No Children Allowed"

No Night There

"Come Along, Little One."

The Young People's Class: The Holy Ghost

Bible Talks: The Story of Moses

The Redeemed Rabbit

The Letter Box

What Says the Clock?

The Story of Moses: The Man of God

Tippy the Hero

"I Really Mean It"

"I Know Something Better Than That"

The Toy Sermon

Sorrows of Disobedience

Hushed Was the Evening Hymn

The Story of Moses: The Man of God

Runaway Jack

Jesus Loves Me

Christian Courage

Noah's Ark

Bible Talks

Saved From a Lion

The Many Mansions

Little Bobby's Question

The Shepherd Who Died

The Young People's Class: The Christ

The Story of Moses, The Man of God

Two Snow Storms

My Best Text

All Things Bright and Beautiful

The Lion

The Story of Moses: The Man of God

Little Charles

The Bear

Yet There Is Room

Foolish Dick's Conversion

Afraid of God

Bible Talks: The Story of Moses the Man of God

A Sailor's Escape

Sweeter Than Candy

Too Late

Jesus Loved Me First

The Story of Moses: The Man of God

Saved in a Chicken Coop

The Indian Boy's Treasure

Jesus Has Got Me Now

The Young People's Class: The Saviour

The Story of Moses: The Man of God

The Old Calendar

Two Salvations

The Story of Moses

Alfredo

"Give My Love to Him!"

"Not as a Prince, but as a Sinner"

Plenty of Time Yet

The Story of Moses

A Gambler's Story

Charlie's Dream

The King of Kings

Mary's Dime

Precious

The Story of Moses: The Man of God

The Runaway

She Loved Her Bible

"Take Me as I Am"

The Story of Moses: The Man of God

The Mother Elephant

"He Died for Me"

Important Questions With Scripture Answers

The Low Knocker

The Young People's Class: The Lamb of God

The Story of Moses

"Get My Mother in"

"I Am the Door"

A Happy Home

Bible Talks

The Spider Web

The Debt Paid