Messages of God's Love: 1974

MY FATHER and my cousins perished one stormy night in their fishing boat; it went down with all hands in the awful gale. My poor mother was unable to take care of me, so from a child I was left to shift for myself.

When quite young I went to sea. On board I heard from most of the crew vile oaths and curses and in these I soon joined as heartily as the rest of them. Then I left that ship and sailed on another, the captain of which was a Christian.

One Sunday morning the captain said to us, “Now, boys, there’s no work on board on Sundays. You may go to a place of worship if you choose.” These words made a great impression on me, for they seemed so strange after the language and ways to which I had been accustomed. I took the captain’s advice and went to a little chapel where I heard an old gray-headed preacher speak on these words: “Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be filled.” From that day on the Lord put a longing for righteousness in my heart.

There were eleven of us on board — rough, bad fellows — but I was the only one among them that was seeking mercy. My mates were terribly vexed when they saw me take out my Bible and read it, and the more so as I could no longer have any pleasure in their songs and ways.

One Sunday night as I was reading and they were drinking, they began to jeer at me. “It was bad enough to have a pious captain,” they said, “but a hymn-singing and praying mate won’t do.”

“I should like to give him a passage overboard, in the dark,” grumbled one of them named Peter.

I sat still trying to read my Bible and praying for strength from above, while they continued drinking and card playing until fairly tired out.

One day as we were anchored in the river, suddenly a shout was heard: “Man overboard!” Jumping up I saw the round hat of a sailor floating on the water. A plank was flung overboard. “Grab hold of it,” we cried; but the man never rose again.

We dragged the river and after two hours we found the dead body of one of our mates — it was poor Peter. We laid his body upon the quarter deck, where only a few hours before he had been joining in the blaspheming of the blessed name of Jesus.

If a proud, hardened sinner should read this true story, let him take it as a solemn warning of the end of those that hate Jesus. For them it will be a passage in the dark — in death eternal and the lake of fire!

But how wonderful are the ways of God! One of our number was taken away in judgment, but all the rest, with one exception, had been stopped, one by one, by the loving hand of the Lord — cleansed and saved from their sins by the blood of the Lamb; and all, except the unconverted one, are now captains of ships.

Hear a word from me, dear rear, before I end my story. These men are new men — they are believers in the Lord Jesus Christ; instead of being the servants of sin, they are now lovers of holiness. It is not reformation, for when a man becomes a believer in Jesus he is a new man. The works of darkness he loved he hates; the fruits of the Spirit — love, joy, gentleness, peace — are his delights; old things are passed away, all things are become new.

Beloved reader, are you of the old man or are you of the new man, Christ Jesus? Do not think to improve yourself. What you need is a new life — a new nature. You are past mending. You need to be saved. Do not rest until you are saved. Jesus knows all your sins; but if you will come to Him, all shall be forgiven you. The sinner has nothing to do but to trust in the blood of the Lamb. Do trust Him and be saved and join the band of boys and girls, and men and women, who are on their way to their heavenly home, to be with Jesus forever.

ML-01/06/1974

A Painted Text

KATHY, a young Christian girl was spending a vacation with her father down by the sea coast. She heard there was a dying man in a cottage nearby. She went to see him, but found he was too deaf to talk with anyone and almost blind. He did say enough, however, to prove that he did not know the Saviour, but trusted in what he called his “good character.”

Kathy was at her wits end, yet so anxious to lead the old man to the Saviour. Suddenly she thought of something. She went home, painted John 3:16 in large black letters on a sheet of white cardboard, and stood it at the foot of the old man’s bed. There it stood with its blessed message: “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”

The old man could see enough to read those big letters. He read the text over and over, and finally the young lady had the joy of seeing that it was making its way into the heart of the dying man.

He saw and confessed he was a guilty sinner, and he rejoiced in the way God has proved His love to such. What greater love could God show than to give His beloved Son to die for poor, guilty sinners!

Thus does God use those whose hearts, like Kathy’s own, are full of pity and love for sinful men.

ML-01/06/1974

A Strange Fish Story

ONE DAY a friend of ours was fishing by the side of the lake. He was standing on a big flat rock, intent on his fishing, when slowly the rock began to slip into the lake. Our friend jumped back on shore in a hurry.

The rock was a big crocodile! Happily the crocodile did not harm him. It was so well hidden, that our friend had not seen it.

We read in God’s Word of those awful days that are coming when men will call on the rocks and mountains to “hide them” from the face of the Lord. No rocks can hide us from the eyes of God. Still we need not fear the day of judgment if we have found a refuge in the Lord Jesus who died for sinners upon the cross. David the shepherd boy had learned to put his trust in God. He could say, “Thou art my hiding place.” Psa. 32:7. How good for us if we have discovered this safe hiding place.

“God is our refuge and strength... therefore will not we fear, though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea.” Psa. 46:1,2.

Are you safe in Christ?

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

The gift of God is eternal life. Rom. 6:23

ML-01/06/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 19:11-16

THE ASHES of the red heifer mingled with running water were God’s gracious provision for pilgrims defiled on their journey. It is somewhat like the Lord’s washing the disciples feet in John 13. “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.

After the burning of the heifer the priest was to wash his clothes and bathe himself in water, and be unclean until the evening. How often we stray away in our own souls. But then too a clean person who had to do with the restoration of another who had fallen into sin was himself unclean until the evening. This tells of the care and fear in which we should seek the restoration of another, lest the flesh should make us fail in the hatred of the evil or in grace to the one who has failed. It is easy to become self-righteous on the one hand, or ourselves come under the power of the sin on the other. Only the Lord could touch a leper and be untainted with the evil.

Washing the clothes speaks of the necessity of cleansing and separation from the contacts, companionships and associations which caused the defilement. Then we have to apply the Word to our own persons, cleansing our minds from evil thoughts which ever seek to lodge there. This we see in the priest washing himself all over.

“He that toucheth the dead body of any man shall be unclean seven days.” If an Israelite touched the dead body of a man, or a bone, or a grave he was declared unclean. If a man died in a tent, then every one in the tent, every open vessel, and all who came into the tent were unclean. Death is the result of sin; “Wherefore, as by one man sin entered into the world and death by sin” (Rom. 5:12). One could not help it if a man died in a tent and it would be perfectly right for him to bury the dead, but that did not make any difference. Death brought defilement and the Lord sets forth here that which would remove it from His presence. God did not change His standard of holiness even though sin has come into the world, but in grace He does make provision for the removal of the defilement from His own.

There was, however, a provision that in a tent where death had entered any vessel which had a covering bound on it should remain clean in spite of death being there. Evil actions, bad words, bad stories, and defiling pictures are everywhere in this wicked world, but if our hearts are filled with Christ, “covered over” with a sense of His love and holiness, we are kept clean in the midst of these defiling things. May we seek to be like “covered” vessels, for it is in His presence and in the enjoyment of His holy love that we learn what sin really is and are kept from it. However, if our eyes are open to the evil sights of this world and our ears open to its evil stories, if our feet are not walking in the path of separation, we become defiled. Oh how watchful we should be! Let us ask the Lord continually to help us keep our eyes on Him, to walk with Him, and to keep the “covering” on.

ML-01/06/1974

The Old Chief's Gifts

A MISSIONARY was once preaching to some Indians. He was telling them how much God loved them and that He had given His only Son whom He loved to die for their sins. “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.

When the old Chief heard these words he was quite impressed. A feeling of gratitude took possession of him so that he wanted to do something for the Lord Jesus. He rose from where he was sitting at the back of the group, walked forward and laid his tomahawk at the missionary’s feet, saying as he did so, “Indian Chief give his tomahawk to Jesus Christ.” Then he went back and sat down.

The missionary talked on, telling of how God had given his best when He gave His Son, Jesus, to die for us. The old Chief listened thoughtfully, and then again he walked forward taking this time his blanket. He laid it at the missionary’s feet and said, “Indian Chief give his blanket to Jesus Christ.” Again he went back to listen.

Still the missionary kept on talking of the wonderful grace of the Lord Jesus, how though He was rich yet for our sakes He became poor, when He was willing to be born in a manger and then to die on the cross in order that we might be rich (2 Cor. 8:9). While he was speaking the old Chief unfastened his pony and brought him forward. Again he spoke saying, “Indian Chief give his pony to Jesus.” Then he stepped back to listen once more.

You see, dear young friends, the Indian Chief was like many boys and girls, and older folks too, who think that God wants us to give the things we have to Him as an offering.

“Now,” thought the Chief, “I have given all I have to Jesus Christ who gave Himself for me.” But as he sat listening still longer a new light began to break over the Old Chief’s face. He was seeing something he had never seen before — something that was new to him — and it was the Holy Spirit who was showing it to him and speaking to his heart. He began to see that in giving all the things he had he failed to give the Lord what He wanted most.

This time he rose and went forward with nothing in his hands. But bowing low, with tears running down his cheeks and lips trembling, he said to the missionary, “Indian Chief give himself to Jesus Christ.”

Dear boys and girls, this is the gift that God wants from you — your heart, your life, your all. Have you given Him what He desires above anything else? He doesn’t want anything from you until you have given yourself to Him.

“Son, give Me thine heart.” Proverbs 23: 26.

I GAVE My life for thee,

My precious blood I shed,

That thou might’st ransomed be

And quickened from the dead;

I gave My life for thee,

What hast thou given for Me?

And I have brought to thee,

Down from My home above,

Salvation full and free,

My pardon and My love;

I bring rich gifts to thee,

What hast thou brought to Me?

ML-01/13/1974

Natasha's Blackboard Testimony

IN A remote Russian village, there lives a little eleven-year old Christian girl named Natasha. Her parents taught her to believe in the Lord Jesus and she found Him to be real in her own life.

One day a new teacher came to her school. The teacher was a communist and was determined to put an end to Natasha’s faith. The battle began between the aggressive Communist teacher and little Natasha.

The teacher tried mockery, reasoning, friendship, and even trickery to get Natasha to give up her faith in God, but she got nowhere. At the end of one school day, the teacher ended the class with a lecture on atheism and wrote with large letters on the blackboard: GOD DOES NOT EXIST!

The next morning, when the teacher came into the classroom, she looked at the blackboard. The words had been changed slightly to read: GOD EXISTS! The teacher quickly erased it.

From that moment on the Communist teacher gave up her fruitless efforts to convert Natasha to atheism. Little Natasha, who had changed the blackboard, had held her ground, witnessed her faith to her fellow classmates, and won a victory over the Communist teacher.

Today in that far off Russian village little Natasha is serving the Lord Jesus Christ. She does not have much to look forward to in this life, for a Christian youth in Russia faces much trial and persecution — perhaps death. She knows this. But it is a price she is willing to pay for her Saviour. There are many such children in Russia who are serving the Lord in a quiet way.

May the story of Natasha encourage boys and girls who love the Lord Jesus to seek to be faithful to Him as their Saviour.

“Be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.” Rev. 2:10.

He sees all the future

Understands all the past,

And knows how much longer

The journey will last.

For our comfort He’ll care

Every step of the road,

Till His glory we share

In the house of our God.

ML-01/13/1974

The Dirty Cottage Floor

A MAN was traveling in Africa, and stayed overnight at a cottage in the country. When he went to bed that night, he couldn’t help noticing how dirty the bedroom floor was. It looked as if it had not been cleaned for months. So he decided to tell the landlady the next day to have it scrubbed.

The next morning, when the sun came up and the man could see better, he noticed that no amount of scrubbing would ever make the floor clean. The floor was made of big clods of dirt, trodden down till a solid surface was formed, as level and smooth as any ordinary floor. No amount of soap and water would do it any good!

This is just like ourselves as sinners until we know the cleansing power of the blood of Jesus. No amount of scrubbing or good works can make us clean in God’s sight and yet how many people try very hard to make themselves fit for His presence. But it will do them no more good than trying to scrub that dirty floor. They find that they sin in spite of themselves and before God they are worse off than they were before.

The Lord Jesus is the only one who can wash away our sins and make us pure and clean in His sight. Let each of us be sure that our sins are washed away in His precious blood, for “The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from ALL sin.” 1 John 1:7.

Memory Verse “AS IT IS APPOINTED UNTO MEN ONCE TO DIE, BUT AFTER THIS THE JUDGMENT: SO CHRIST WAS ONCE OFFERED TO BEAR THE SINS OF MANY.” Hebrews 9:27, 28

ML-01/13/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 19:17-22

IN THE burning of the red heifer we have an illustration of the purity of God’s nature. His standard of holiness must be maintained whatever it might cost His people. The seraphims in Isaiah 6 cry, “Holy, holy, holy is the Lord of hosts,” and here we see something of what that holiness is. It is not a question of the measure of a man’s guilt, but entirely a question of the nature of God. How little is this understood even now in these days, but may we desire to know more of it ourselves as we journey on heavenward.

To touch the dead body of a clean beast rendered the person unclean until the evening, but to touch the dead body of a man, however good he might have been, rendered the person unclean seven days. How humbling this is to the pride of man! To touch “the bone of a man” might seem to be a little thing, but it is not only greater failures that defile but also much lesser things that are allowed to come between us and God our Father, so that counion is broken. Still there is the gracious remedy for every defilement, the remembrance of the death of Christ which has met all.

Perhaps one might think he could purify himself on the first day, but no, not until the third day was the water of purification sprinkled upon him. God allows the sin to remain on the conscience for a time in order that one might feel his sin and realize fully how he has failed. A hasty confession does not always show true and deep repentance; on the contrary it might indicate a shallow work in the soul and light thoughts of sin.

On the third day the man was to go to a clean person who took some of the ashes of the red heifer and running water and sprinkled him with them. As those ashes speak of the death of the Lord Jesus and of the consuming wrath of God which He bore for our sins on the cross, this tells us what God would have us to feel when we have sinned, how much it cost our vlessed Saviour to be “made sin for us” (2 Cor. 5:21). The water of purification applied by the hyssop ought to humble us when we think that it took the utter humiliation of the Son of God to put our sin and defilement away.

Then on the seventh day the man was sprinkled again, being made to feel the exceeding sinfulness of sin, but also reminded of the love even unto death that provided for his cleansing. Sin in the believer is seen as sin against the Father’s love and these two sprinklings set for how sin had brought shame on the grace that saved us, but that that same grace has triumphed over our sin.

If one refused to be cleansed from defilement in the way God provided, he was to be cut off from Israel. He chose to remain unclean. How sad and solemn this is! A child of God will never be lost, and yet how many have gone on with some unjudged sin for a long time, until God finally has to deal with them in His government in order to produce repentance and bring about restoration.

The ordinance of the red heifer was to be a perpetual statute and this would remind us that we are never to allow ourselves to become accustomed to the evil we see and hear and become careless about it ourselves. May we ever keep a tender conscience and remember that we have a holy Father who loves us and a Saviour who not only died for us but is soon coming for us.

O holy Father, keep us here

In that blest name of love.

Walking before Thee without fear

Till all be joy above.

ML-01/13/1974

The Touch of Compassion

THE CIVIL WAR was raging and a mother received word that her son was mortally wounded. She immediately made her way to the front, knowing that those who were told to look after the sick and wounded could not care for her boy like she would.

Going to the doctor she asked, “Would you let me take care of my boy?”

“We have just let him go to sleep,” he answered, “and I’m afraid that if you go to him now the surprise might be too much for him.”

“But he may never wake up,” she pleaded, “and I should so dearly like to see him.” Oh how she did long to see him!

Finally the doctor consented. “But,” he said, “if you wake him up and he dies, it will be your fault.”

“Well,” she said, “I will not wake him up if I may only go by his bed and see him.”

So she went into the ward and there she saw her dear boy lying asleep on a cot. A long while she stood there, gazing on that loved face; and even as she lingered she could not resist laying her soft hand gently upon the fevered brow.

There was a mother’s love and sympathy in that touch, and the moment the slumbering boy felt it he whispered, “Oh, Mother, have you come?”

He felt the sympathy and the affection in the familiar touch of that hand. And if you, dear unsaved friend, will only let the hand of Jesus reach out and touch your heart, you too will feel the wondrous love and sympathy in it. O that every lost soul that reads these lines might come to the arms of the blessed Saviour of sinners and be saved!

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

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

Many are choosing Christ to-day,

Turning from all their sins away;

Heaven shall their blessed portion be;

Where will you spend eternity?

ML-01/20/1974

When Beth Was Born

BETH was sick one day so Mother tried to find things to amuse her and to help her pass away the time. Finally she brought out her baby album and the little girl was delighted as she gazed at the pictures of herself when she was a tiny babe.

Beth was so pleased, too, when she read all the cards Mother had received, and she exclaimed, “Mommie, everyone was happy when I was born, weren’t they?”

There was another little Babe born into this world, but only a few were happy at His birth. Most were not aware of the blessed event and some who were showed no interest, while others, wicked men like King Herod, tried to kill Him. The world had no place for Him, “there was no room for Him in the inn,” so he was born in the stable among the little donkeys and creature friends He Himself had made. But He was glad to be among them, “and He shared their gentle sorrow in the straw.”

When He grew up to be a man He had no place to lay His head down here. But He was ever about His Father’s business and went about doing good. He healed the sick, gave sight to the blind, cast out demons, raised the dead, fed the hungry, and brought comfort and joy to the weary and sad. At the close of that short, but full and perfect life, the world’s enmity rose up against Him and men nailed Him to a cross of shame.

But He died for sinners — for you, dear reader, and for me that all who believe in Him as their Saviour might have everlasting life and go to be with Him in His heavenly home. Today He calls, “Come unto Me,.. and I will give you rest.” Matt. 11:28

“He came unto His own, and His own received Him not. But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name.” John 1:11,12.

ML-01/20/1974

A Math Problem

PHIL was a brilliant math student and fond of challenging his fellow classmates to a trial of skill in solving difficult problems. One day a classmate came into his room and laying a folded paper in front of him said, “There is a proem I wish you would help me solve.” Then immediately he left the room.

Phil eagerly unfolded the paper and there, instead of a problem in mathematics, were traced the lines:

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

With an air of utter contempt and disgust, Phil tore the paper to bits and turned again to his books. But in vain he tried to shake off the impression the solemn words had made on him. The Holy Spirit pressed home his convictions of guilt and danger so that he could find no peace, till he found it in believing in Jesus; for it is only in “being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Rom. 5:1.

Phil became a faithful follower of His crucified Saviour and a preacher of the gospel he once despised. His first sermon was from the words so wondrously blessed to his own soul: “What shall it profit a man if he gain the whole world and lose his own soul?” Mark 8:36.

Memory Verse: “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-01/20/1974

Who Was He?

Remember the

FISHERMAN who

FOUND OUT his sin; and

FELT he was not fit to be near

the Lord; but he was

FORGIVEN, and then he

FOLLOWED the Lord Jesus.

You can read about him in Luke

5. May you be like him, and being

blessed yourself, be a blessing to

others.

ML-01/20/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 20:1-9

ISRAEL had been a long time in the wilderness. Now they were at Kadesh on the borders of the land. There Miriam died; she did not see the promised land. Of the three — Moses, Aaron and herself — she was the first to depart. It is well to notice that some like Miriam died in faith in the wilderness, while many of the people died in unbelief and were lost forever.

There was no water to drink, and the people gathered themselves tether against Moses and Aaron. Instead of growing in grace they were growing more perverse and daring, and their hearts were constantly going back to Egypt. They chided with Moses saying they wished they had died before the Lord along with their brethren at the time of Korah’s rebellion. It seems that they had forgotten that that was a special judgment from the Lord and that they had fled at the cry of those who went down into the pit.

But human nature is unchanged by either God’s judgment or His grace. The natural man has neither desire nor strength to walk the path of faith and so unless one is truly saved, the difficulties of the way prove too much. If they had only asked God for water, would He not have given it to them?

But God ever cares for His people and His grace appears. Moses is told to make use of Aaron’s rod that budded, that which spoke of priestly grace. He said: “Take the rod, and gather thou the assembly tether, thou and Aaron thy brother, and speak ye unto the rock...; and it shall give forth his water.”

Moses was not to use his rod now, the rod that had smitten the rock once so that the water gushed out. He was right in using it on that occasion, for then it was a question of judgment. But now God would act in grace. So he was to use Aaron’s rod.

Christ, the true Rock, could only be smitten once for our sins. He “once suffered for sins, the Just for the unjust, that He might bring us to God.” He will never be smitten again. His work is finished and forever complete. Now as our great High Priest, as seen in Aaron’s rod, He lives for us above and ever intercedes at God’s right hand, supplying grace to help in time of need along our wilderness journey. Now we have only to “speak to the Rock” and He will never fail us.

But Moses, who had seen so much of the Lord’s ways in grace seems to lose sight entirely of that grace which He would now show toward His people. He seems to be more occupied with his position and authority. He did take the rod (Aaron’s rod) from before the Lord, but he was thinking of the people’s badness rather than the blessed God, whose grace up till now He himself had reflected so wonderfully. It is sad to see so faithful a servant of God fail, but God has told us these things that we might profit by them and not fall into the same snares, for surely we are no better. “Be not overcome of evil,” we are told, “but overcome evil with good.” Rom. 12:21.

ML-01/20/1974

He Took My Place

AN UNGODLY sea captain lay in his cabin in midocean, death staring him in the face. He shrank back in the presence of “the king of terrors,” and the dread of eternity took fast hold upon him.

Captain Coutts sent for his first mate, and said, “Williams, get down on your knees and pray for a fellow. I have been very wicked, as you know, and I expect I shall go this time.”

“I am not a praying man, you know, captain, so I can’t pray. I would if I could.”

“Well, then, bring a Bible and read me a bit, for my rope is about run out.”

“I have no Bible, captain; you know I am not a religious man.”

“Then send for Thomas, the second mate; perhaps he can pray a bit.”

The second mate was soon in the presence of the dying captain, when he said to him, “I say, Thomas, I am afraid I am bound for eternity this trip. Get down and pray for me. Ask God to have mercy upon my poor soul.”

“I’d gladly do it to oblige you, captain, if I could; but I have not prayed since I was a boy.”

“Have you a Bible then, to read to me?”

“No, captain, I have no Bible.”

Alas for the dying sinner! How awful his condition. On the brink of eternity, and without Christ!

They searched the ship over for a man who could pray, but they searched in vain: and for a Bible, but none could be found, until one of the sailors told the captain he had seen a book that looked like a Bible in the hands of the cook’s boy, a little fellow named Willie Platt.

“Send at once,” said Captain Coutts, “and see if the boy has a Bible.”

The sailor hurried off to the boy and said to him, “Sonny, have you a Bible?”

“Yes, sir, but I only read it in my own time.”

“Oh, that is all right, my boy; take the Bible and go to the captain’s cabin. He is very sick and wants a Bible. He thinks he is going to die.”

Away went Willie Platt with his Bible to the captain’s cabin.

“Have you a Bible, my boy?” “Yes, captain.”

“Then sit down, and find something in it that will help me, for I am afraid I am going to die. Find something about God having mercy on a sinner like me, and read it to me.”

Poor boy! He did not know where to read, but he remembered that his mother had him read the 53rd chapter of Isaiah just before he left home for that voyage.

Willie turned to that blessed chapter that so fully sets forth the love and mercy of the Lord Jesus Christ in dying for poor sinners such as John Coutts, and began to read. When William got to the fifth verse — “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,” — the captain, who was listening for his very life, realizing that he was surely having his last chance of being saved, said, “Stop, my boy! That sounds like it! Read it again.”

Once more the boy read over the blessed words.

“Ah, my boy, that’s good — that’s it, sure.”

These words from the captain encouraged Willie, and he said: “Captain, when I was reading that verse at home, Mother made me put my name in it. May I put it in now just where Mother told me?”

“Certainly, sonny; put your name in just where your mother told you, and read it again.”

Reverently and slowly the boy read the verse: “He — Jesus — was wounded for Willie Platt’s transgressions. He was bruised for Willie Platt’s iniquities; the chastisement of Willie Platt’s peace was upon Him, and with His stripes Willie Platt is healed.”

When Willie had finished, the captain was halfway over the side of his bed, reaching toward the boy, and said, “My boy, put your captain’s name in the verse and read it again — John Coutts, John Coutts.”

Then Willie slowly read the verse again: “He was wounded for John Coutts’ transgressions. He was bruised for John Coutts’ iniquities, the chastisement of John Coutts’ peace was upon Him, and with His stripes John Coutts is healed.”

When the boy had finished, the captain said, “That will do, my boy; you may go now.”

Then the captain lay back upon his pillow and repeated over and over again those precious words of Isaiah 53:5, putting in his own name each time, and as he did so, the joy of heaven filled his soul. He was saved? Yes, praise the Lord! reader, he was saved! Another poor sinner for whom Christ died “had received Him” (John 1:12).

Before John Coutts fell asleep in Jesus, he had witnessed to everyone on his vessel that the Christ of God — the man of Calvary — was wounded for his transgressions, bruised for his iniquities, that the chastisement that he rightfully deserved had fallen on his blessed Substitute, and with His stripes the stripes that fell on Jesus — he had been healed!

Beloved reader, do you know anything about this salvation? Have you taken your true place as a poor “ungodly sinner” before God and trusted in Christ for pardon?

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

ML-01/27/1974

"How Old Must I Be?"

“MOTHER,” said Janet, just seven years of age, “how old must I be before I can be a real Christian?”

You will notice that Janet said “a real Christian,” for of course it is a bad thing to be a false one — an imitation, like a bad penny which is worth nothing!

Now Mrs. Pierce was a wise Christian mother and she answered her little girl’s question by asking her three others.

“How old must you be, my dear, before you can love me?” she asked.

“Why I am old enough to love you now, Mother, and I do love you very much,” replied Janet.

“How old must you be before you can trust me?”

“Oh I’m old enough now, Mother.”

“How old must you be before you can obey me?”

Little Janet looked a little ashamed but she replied, “I am old enough now, Mother, but I don’t always do it.”

“If you are old enough to love, trust and obey your mother, Janet,” said Mrs. Pierce, “then you are old enough to be a real Christian, for a real Christian is one who loves and trusts and obeys the dear Saviour, the Lord Jesus.”

Are you a real Christian, dear reader? Is the Lord Jesus precious to you?

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

ML-01/27/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 20:10-13

WE NOW come to the most sorrowful moment in the life of Moses, this dear servant of God.

“And Moses and Aaron gathered the congregation together before the rock, and he said unto them, Hear now, ye rebels; must we fetch you water out of this rock?”

“And Moses lifted up his hand, and with his rod he smote the rock twice: and the water came out abundantly, and the congregation drank, and their beasts also.”

The Lord had told Moses to “speak” to the rock; instead he spoke to the people, calling them rebels. No doubt they were rebels, but that isn’t what God had told him to say. He remembered mercy, while Moses only thought of their sin.

“Must we fetch you water out of this rock?” There was no honor for God in that. But Moses was jealous of his own authority and seems to have lost sight of his place as a servant. On an earlier occasion he and Aaron had answered the people, “What are we that ye murmur against us?” Moses was the meekest man in all the earth, but in this very thing he failed.

God was above all the people’s sin, and when He said, “Take the rod,” He meant them to understand how He would act in grace with that beautiful rod which He had made to blossom and bear fruit as a sign of the priesthood He had set up. Moses ought to have been above the people’s sin with God, and then he would have been able to act in the grace of God. But he was not, for no man is ever perfect in everything, except the Lord Jesus, when He took the place of the servant down here.

In his anger with his own rod Moses smote the rock twice. He had no right to be angry when God would show mercy. Still the water came forth abundantly and the thirsty people drank. Grace rises above all our sin and failure and supplies every need. O how great is God’s goodness.

But Moses had spoiled one of the most precious types of Scripture. Christ has been smitten once that grace might flow out to meet our need as sinners. And now as His people, all our wants, whatever they may be, are met by His priestly grace. We only have to “speak” to Him and those wants shall be supplied.

Because they had failed, God told Moses and Aaron they could not bring the people into the land. They must both die in the wilderness. Moses, it seems, mourned over this till the end of his days, but it is lovely to see his submission to the will of God. It is not that God loved His servant less, but that He is jealous of whatever touches the glory of Christ and His grace.

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

ML-01/27/1974

A Little Pilgrim

One summer’s evening, ere the sun went down,

When tired workers hastened from the town

To reach their homes — some near, some far —

By roaring train, by crowded bus or car,

To be beyond the city’s smoke and din,

A train stopped and a little girl got in.

A cheery looking child, scarce four years old;

Although not shy her manners were not bold;

But all alone! and scarce could understand;

She held a little bundle in her hand—

A tiny handkerchief with corners tied,

But which did not some bread and butter hide;

A satin scarf, so pretty and so neat,

Was o’er her shoulders thrown. She took her seat,

And laid her bundle underneath her arm,

And smiling sweetly, but yet all so calm,

She to the porter said, “May I lie here?”

He answered instantly, “O yes, my dear.”

And there she seemed inclined to make her stay,

While once again the train went on its way.

The tall conductor — over six feet high,

Now scanned the traveler with a business eye;

But in that eye was something kind and mild,

That took the notice of the little child.

A little after, and the man went round,

And soon was heard the old familiar sound

Of gathering coins and clipping tickets too—

The car was full and he had much to do.

“Your fare, my little girl,” at length he said.

She looked a moment, shook her little head:

“I have no money; don’t you know,” said she,

“My fare is paid, for Jesus paid for me.”

He looked bewildered — all the people smiled:

“I didn’t know, and who is Jesus, child?”

“Why, don’t you know He once for sinners died?

For little children, and for men beside,

To make us good and wash away our sin;

Is this His railway I am traveling in?”

“Don’t think it is! I want your fare, you know.”

“I told you Jesus paid it long ago!

My mother told me just before she died

That Jesus paid when He was crucified,

That at His cross His railway did begin

Which took poor sinners from a world of sin.

My mother said His home was grand and fair:

I want to go and see my mother there—

I want to go to Heaven where Jesus lives.

A loving welcome Mother said He gives;

He bids us little children come to Him.”

The poor conductor’s eyes felt rather dim,

He knew not why — he fumbled in his coat;

And felt a substance rising in his throat.

The people listened to the little child:

Some were in tears — the roughest only smiled,

And some one whispered as they looked amazed,

“Out of the mouths of babes the Lord is praised.”

“I am a pilgrim,” said the little thing,

“I’m going to Heaven. Mother used to sing

To me of Jesus and His Father’s love;

Told me to meet her in His Home above.

And so today when aunt went out to tea,

And looking out I could not Daddy see,

I got my bundle — kissed my little kitty,

And started for the heavenly City.

And then your train it stopped, and I could see

You looked so kind. I saw you beckon me —

I thought you must belong to Jesus’ train;

Are you just going to Heaven again?”

The poor conductor only shook his head;

Tears in his eyes — the power of speech had fled.

Had conscience by her prattle roused his fears,

And struck upon the fountain of his tears,

And made his thoughts in sad confusion whirl?

At last he said: “Once I’d a little girl;

I loved her much; she was my little pet,

And with great fondness I remember yet

How much she loved me. But one day she died.”

“She’s gone to Heaven,” the little girl replied;

“She’s gone to Jesus — Jesus paid her fare!

O won’t you meet your little girl up there?”

The poor conductor now broke fairly down;

He could have borne the hardest look or frown.

But no one laughed. Yet many sitting by

Beheld the scene with sympathetic eye.

He kissed the child, for she his heart had won.

“I am so sleepy,” said the little one;

“If you will let me, I’ll lie here and wait

Until your train arrives at Jesus’ gate.

And you’ll see Jesus there!” The strong man wept.

1 Could but think, as from the car I stepped,

How oft a little one has found the road,

The narrow pathway to that blest abode;

Through faith in Christ has read its title clear,

While learned men remain in doubt and fear.

A little child! the Lord oft uses such

To break or bend, the stoutest heart to touch;

Then by His Spirit bids the conflict cease,

And once forever enter into peace;

And then along the road the news we bear,

We’re going to Heaven — for Jesus paid our fare.

“Out of the mouth of babes... Thou hast perfected praise.” Matt. 21:16.

“Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of God.” Mark 10:14.

Memory Verse: “WHOSOEVER SHALL NOT RECEIVE THE KINGDOM OF GOD AS A LITTLE CHILD, HE SHALL NOT ENTER THEREIN.” Mark 10:15.

ML-02/03/1974

Fishers of Men

A BOY named John once saw on his way to Sunday school a number of ragged boys of his own age, playing in the street. He begged them to come to Sunday school with him.

But only one agreed to come — a boy without a hat or coat. When they arrived at the door, the boy saw all the children inside were well dressed, and he wanted to run away again.

“I won’t go in there,” he said. “I haven’t even a coat on!”

“Here is my coat,” said John, and quickly pulling off his coat, he helped the other put it on. So both of them went in.

“I know that incident very well,” said the Christian teacher who told the story, “for I was the boy who once had no coat; and Dr. John Paton, that famous missionary of the New Hebrides, was the one who gave me his!”

That devoted soul winner, who in later years was used to bring in so many people from heathendom with the net of the gospel of the grace of God in Christ Jesus, began even as a boy to lead souls to the Lord Jesus. He sought out such in his immediate neighborhood who knew nothing of the Lord.

The Lord Jesus said: “Come ye after Me, and I will make you to become fishers of men.” Mark 1:17.

ML-02/03/1974

"Yes!"

One evening, after a children’s service, a teacher was talking to little Ann who was weeping for her sins, but could not believe that she was pardoned.

“Suppose,” he said, “that Jesus were in this room — what would you do?”

“I would go to Him at once,” she replied.

“And what would you tell Him?” “That I am a lost sinner.”

“And what would you ask Him?” “Oh, I would ask Him if He would forgive me.”

“And what would Jesus answer?”

She hesitated a moment, and then she looked up, smiling through her tears, for at once she saw it all. “Why,” she said, “He would answer, ‘Yes!’ "

And simply trusting in the Saviour’s word she went to Him then and there.

“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.” John 5:24.

ML-02/03/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 20:12,13

IT SEEMS that the reason for I Moses’ failure, which lost for him the land of Canaan, was that he did not enter into God’s thoughts about Aaron’s rod with its beautiful blooms and fruit. He was more occupied with his own rod. That rod had brought down those fearful judgments on Egypt, and when stretched out over the Red Sea it had brought deliverance to Israel and destruction to their enemies.

That rod had smitten the rock from whence the gushing waters flowed. It told of God’s judgment falling — not on the sinful murmuring people, but — on Christ, made sin for us upon the cross. The Rock bore the strokes which ought to have fallen on us, and from the riven Rock the living waters flowed. “The gift of God is eternal life” life beyond death and judgment, life flowing for all who will drink of its streams.

In virtue of this the Holy Spirit has come down, and the believer possesses not only life but life abundantly in the power of the Holy Ghost. He has “a well of water springing up into everlasting life” flowing back to its source, even Christ in glory.

The believer now has two natures — the new, for we are “made partakers of the divine nature,” and the old which is as corrupt as ever. What then is God’s remedy for the sins and failings of His people down here in this wilderness world?

Never could it be in His mind to smite the Rock again, nor could there be a fresh sprinkling of the blood. Such a thought would be the greatest dishonor to the finished and everlasting work of the Lord Jesus. In that one only sacrifice that bleed work of redemption was completed once for all.

But that mystic rod of Aaron, laid up before the Lord, tells of Christ come forth in resurrection power to bless and, as their great High Priest, to intercede for them above. God had told Moses to take Aaron’s rod and to simply “speak” to the Rock. He did take “the rod” but, alas, he also took his own rod and smote the rock.

Moses had reflected the grace of God at times in a most wonderful way, but here at Meribah he failed entirely. He misrepresented God who would now act in grace. In wielding the rod of judgment he came under its judgment himself. He could not enter that beautiful land, but must die in the wilderness.

The law could not bring the people into the land — it would only keep them out. Grace alone could bring them in. And so it is with us, dear reader. We would never gain that heavenly land by the law or through any efforts of our own, for we are such failures. Only through the work of the Lord Jesus and His priestly intercession for us on high can God in grace bring us home to the glory He has given.

When we turn over to the New Testament how precious it is to see Moses along with Elijah in company with the Lord on the mount of transfiguration. Grace triumphs over judgment. Moses is in the land now, and associated with Christ in the glory of His kingdom.

ML-02/03/1974

The Old Fiddle

IN A beautiful city park, an old I soldier might have been seen sitting on a homemade bench. Beside him a little dog sat on his haunches. He held in his mouth his master’s old tattered hat into which the more charitable folks would toss pennies as they passed by. The old veteran’s meager pension was not enough for his bodily needs, and so to supplement his scanty income he had obtained an old fiddle on which he played a few tunes. It was scratchy music and the best he could offer was very poor.

On this particular day scarcely anyone took notice of the old man, and so, few pennies found their way into the old hat, held firmly by his faithful friend. The old veteran was discouraged and stroking his pet he said, affectionately, “Ah, Fido, I’m afraid there’ll be no bone for you tight!” The little dog wagged his tail, and as he looked imploringly up into his master’s face tears flowed down the aged man’s cheeks. Fido began to whine, as if to say, “Oh I’m so hungry!”

Unknown to the old man a well-dressed gentleman had been standing behind the pair, watching and listening intently. Then he stepped up close and asked the old veteran if he would lend him his violin for just a few minutes. Taking the instrument he carefully tightened the strings and adjusted them. Then, after tightening the bow, he began to play.

Such rapturous chords now began to flow from the old violin — music so sweet and so rare that passers-by were arrested, and stayed to listen. The stranger played on, and as he warmed up to his playing the sweeter the melody that filled the air. Quickly a crowd began to gather. As they listened enraptured, hearts were touched as they saw the little dog faithfully holding out the open hat. Pockets and purses were opened and soon the old battered hat was weighed down with the money that flowed in.

But the old man heeded not the money that was dropping into his hat. The musician and his fiddle, his dear old fiddle, were a miracle to him. How could that stranger draw such exquisite strains from that old violin of his? Ah! It was a master that had hold of it — a master violinist, one of the greatest — that was the secret. Kind-hearted as he was, the stranger who had appeared as it were from nowhere, when his wish was fulfilled, after laying the old, but beloved fiddle in the aged veteran’s lap, vanished as quickly as he came.

Then another gentleman, who had witnessed the whole scene, told the large audience who the violinist was. He took the old hat and passed it around to the crowd and soon it was filled to the brim with money, including many large bills. The old veteran, along with his pension, now had enough to last him for the rest of his days. Hugging his fiddle, and stroking his little dog, who seemed to enter into the spirit of things, he went home to his attic room, with more than one bone for his little pet.

That old violin makes one think of how the Lord Jesus, the blessed Man from heaven, takes up poor sinners in His grace, and draws from them sweetest songs of praise that delight His ear. He comes into our lives, cleanses us from our sins — for this He died upon the cross adjusts the strings of our hearts, and then by His Spirit He begins to draw forth from them songs and hymns of praise that will fill heaven by-and-by. Those whom He has redeemed go on their way to heaven singing the song: “Unto Him that loved us and washed us from our sins in His own blood... to Him be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen!” Rev. 1:5,6.

Dear young reader, have you learned to sing that song? You will rejoice if you learn it, but you will never be truly happy until you do. May the Lord Himself lead you to own Him as your Saviour and then you will be able to say, “He hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God.” Psa. 40:3.

Beloved, fellow-Christians, are not our hearts like that old fiddle often-times? How little there is for the Lord in them, when we ought to be making melody in our hearts unto Him (Eph. 5:19). Unless the Chief Singer vibrates our hearts, there will be no songs of praise for Him. Yet He is so worthy, and longs for it, even from our poor hearts. Our hearts purified by faith, indwelt by the Holy Ghost, and He, our beloved Lord, leading the singing, we are well able to praise Him, even at midnight, as we shall through endless days.

ML-02/10/1974

Teenie's Sermon

LITTLE TEENIE was only six years old, but she loved to hear stories of Jesus and His love.

Children’s meetings were held that summer at four o’clock, and Teenie often coaxed her two older sisters to go in with her, as they passed the hall, on their way home from school.

But one day she went alone, as neither of her sisters cared to go with her. They were playing with their dolls on the doorstep when she returned.

Her little face was aglow with the joy in her heart, as she ran to them, holding up a pretty little book which had been given her at the afternoon meeting.

“Look!” she cried, “see what you’ve lost by staying away from the meeting.” Then in earnest tones she went on, in her childish way: “And that’s not all you’ve lost, for you’ve lost to know that ‘the blood of Jesus Christ cleanseth us from all sin.’ "

Now little Teenie had only spoken to her sisters on the doorstep, but her words reached the ear of her mother inside, and sank into her heart. Before long she came to know the value of the precious blood that cleanses from all sin. Then her face was bright and happy, for her heart was full of joy. Now both Teenie and her mother are shining for Jesus.

Memory Verse: “THE LORD GOD IS A SUN AND SHIELD:... BLESSED IS THE MAN THAT TRUSTETH IN THEE.” Psalm 84:11, 12.

ML-02/10/1974

Little Harry's Faith

The lady who called at the Christian’s house was in great distress. Her husband had met with an accident, and she had no money. “What can I do? No one will help me!” she wailed.

Harry, the small son of the Christian man, was playing with his train in a corner of the room. They did not know he was listening, but he looked up and said, “I will help you.”

“What can you do?” she sobbed. “I can pray for you,” he answered. The lady never forgot the faith of the little boy, and the lesson he taught her when she was in trouble.

The Lord attends when children pray;

A whisper He can hear.

He knows not only what they say,

But what they wish or fear.

“Ye also helping together by prayer.” 2 Cor. 1:11.

ML-02/10/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 20:14-21

“AND MOSES sent messengers from Kadesh unto the king of Edom, Thus saith thy brother Israel,.. Let us pass, I pray thee, through thy country...”

Edom stood between Israel and their promised land, and Moses makes a very touching appeal to the king of Moab to let them pass through. He speaks of their sufferings and trials in Egypt and of how the Lord delivered them. Now they were at Kadesh, the border of his land. They would not cross his fields or vineyards, but travel by the king’s highway, and would pay for the water they and their cattle drank.

All they got from the king of Edom was an outright refusal and a threat, so Israel turned away from him.

In the king of Edom we have another instrument of Satan’s por against those whom God is leading through this world. We see that same power in different forms, opposing the purposes of God — as in Pharaoh in Egypt, and in Amalek in the wilderness. But Satan does not always raise up enemies from without. Sometimes it serves his purpose best if he can corrupt the people of God or bring out the evil and rebellion of their natural hearts so as to rouse the anger of the Lord and bring down His judgment on them. However, Satan only defeats himself, for these occasions only bring out the grace of God which rises above all the failings of His people.

In an earlier day Jacob, on his way back from Padan-Aram, had encountered Esau, but God interposed and would not allow Esau to harm his brother. The old hatred still remained, however, and we see it again coming out in Edom’s refusal to let Israel pass through his land. Often, when a young Christian gives up the world and seeks to follow the Lord, Satan raises up opposition and his own unsaved and worldly relatives are his worst opposers and prove the most hostile. Many have experienced the truth of the Lord’s words, “A man’s foes shall be they of his own household.”

But God was in all these circumstances and Israel’s wilderness joey was not yet completed. God had more lessons for them to learn and more wonderful types of Christ were yet to come.

There are many difficulties in the Christian’s pathway, but often God allows us to feel through the enmity of the world that “we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.” Acts 14:22. Sometimes we are called to enter into actual spiritual conflict, while at other times, like Israel with the king of Edom, we are just to turn away. The Lord will give wisdom for each case if we look to Him.

ML-02/10/1974

The Untried Way

Before me is a future all unknown,

A path untrod;

Beside me is a friend well-loved and known,

That friend is God.

Before me lies a new and untried way,

Midst shadows dim;

Beside me is my Guide, and day by day

I walk with Him.

ML-02/10/1974

Sam, the Newsboy

“I SAY, SAM, there’s to be a good I supper for us fellows down at the hall on Friday night, and I’ve got a ticket for nothing.” So said a newsboy to his friend as they hurried along the street, each with an armful of evening papers. “You can have one too, if you go down to my Sunday school teacher’s house and ask for it. Mr. Kenny said any of us could come.”

Sam set off in eager haste and soon had his free ticket for the evening meal.

On Friday evening a crowd of newspaper boys sat down to supper, all of them poor and hungry. After a hearty supper and some singing, a short gospel address was given by a young fellow who himself had been a newsboy and had been converted. He told how the Lord had saved him and he urged the other boys to trust themselves to Jesus, the Saviour of sinners. All the boys got a gospel story book at the close and all were earnestly invited to come to the “boy’s meeting” on Sunday afternoons.

Sam was greatly delighted and the very next Sunday afternoon he was there seated among the boys, poorly dressed but clean and tidy. He listened attentively to the story of Jesus’ love, and from that day on the Lord began to show him his need of the Saviour.

Every Sunday after that Sam was there and able to repeat the weekly memory verse without a mistake. Before the year was out he had decided for Christ and was happily saved. All who knew Sam saw the great change in him for, “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. Around town he was known as “Sam, the converted newsboy.”

Dear reader, have you been converted? Have you like dear Sam found out that you are a sinner, lost, undone and on the way to a dark and hopeless eternity? Whether you have owned this or not, it is true of every one without Christ. But you need not perish. The Lord Jesus is both willing and able to save you even now, just as you are. Only trust Him now as did Sam the newsboy.

“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-02/17/1974

How God Used a Fish Bone

A FISH BONE was used by God to arouse a young lady to a sense of her need of the Saviour. She had often attended gospel meetings and was no stranger to the good news. The Bible too was read in her home but she was still outside of Christ.

One day when they had fish for lunch a small bone stuck in her throat. All afternoon she bore the pain without mentioning it to any one. But the pain was becoming more than she could bear so at last she went to the doctor. He removed the fish bone and told her her throat was very inflamed.

That night she could not sleep. Thoughts of death and judgment passed through her mind again and again. The Spirit of God was at work showing her the need of her soul. At last getting out of bed she got down on her knees and cried to the Lord for mercy and salvation. As the glad gospel message she had often heard passed before her, the finished work of the Lord Jesus upon the cross for sinners was shown to her, and the value of that precious blood which cleanseth from all sin.

In simple faith she believed, she received the Lord Jesus into her heart and was saved. Then all fear of death and judgment was gone. She knew that Christ was her Saviour now and heaven her home.

We hope that all who read these lines will make this blessed Saviour their own, as this young lady did.

“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 FEAR OF MAN BRINGETH A SNARE: BUT WHOSO PUTTETH HIS TRUST IN THE LORD SHALL BE SAFE.” Proverbs 29:25

ML-02/17/1974

Reg's Daily Text

“I GOT A job in town, Mother,” I exclaimed Reg. “Mr. Banks has just sent word for me to report for work in the morning.”

That night Reg’s mother packed his suitcase and as she put in his Bible she said, “Now, Reg, mind your daily reading. Whatever else you miss, don’t miss that. You know how God often brought it to your mind at school when temptation was near, and you will need it all the more in the city.”

June 3 — “Abstain from all appearance of evil.” 1 Thess. 5:22. That was Reg’s “daily text” that morning. “Lord, keep me in mind of that today,” he prayed.

At lunch time a group of young fellows stood discussing the races in the dining hall.

“Which horse will you back, Reg?” asked one as he passed.

“No horse at all, Bob,” was Reg’s firm reply.

“Too much of a saint for that,” said another with a sneer. “Plenty of people as good as you do it, and there’s no harm in it.”

“God says, ‘Abstain from all appearance of evil,’ " Reg replied quietly, and he walked away. You see, his daily text was abiding in his heart and it kept him from the snare the devil laid for his feet. How glad his mother was to hear it!

Do not fail to commit to memory some part of God’s Word and don’t fear to act as It bids you do. In keeping His commandments there is great reward.

You can well afford to bear the scoffer’s contempt and the sinner’s sneer, if you are doing what pleases God. The path of obedience is a happy path. There is real joy in pleasing God; and although for a time perhaps the opposition of godless men may be hard to bear, it will be seen in the end that he who honors God loses nothing for time or eternity. The Word of God is a “choice treasure” and of more value than “much fine gold.”

ML-02/17/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 20:22-29

ISRAEL were at Kadesh, on the borders of the sunny land of promise. Only a small strip that bonged to Edom barred the way, and through it ran “the king’s highway"; only a few steps more and they would be home at last. But the king of Edom had refused to let them pass through his land, and God ordered it so. He did not let His people take the short cut.

It was not His mind that His redeemed people should enter the land by that way. Two more years of the wilderness testings and trials still remained, yet in the midst of those humbling experiences was revealed one of the most precious types of Scripture — the brazen serpent, type of Christ lifted up upon the cross for sin. It was only after Israel learned afresh the lesson of their own hearts and that of the brazen serpent that they really ban to make progress on the journey.

So instead of traversing Edom they had to go southward and around Mount Seir and then turn northward along the eastern side of the Jordan. God’s purpose was that to enter the land they must cross the Jordan with its dried up waters. And here we have another wonderful type set forth. The Jordan speaks of our death and resurrection with Christ, the only way by which God’s redeemed people now can enter in and enjoy their heavenly possessions.

Now Aaron dies, and Moses was soon to follow. Aaron’s beautiful garments were put upon Eleazar his son, and it was he who under God gave instructions to their new leader Joshua, for taking possession of the land. Israel mourned for Aaron, but they were soon to enter the land, and God was breaking the links that connected them with the wilderness.

In the passing of Aaron and Moses Israel would be made to feel that the wilderness was a changing scene. Those leaders they had looked up to and leaned on were gone — but God remained. The pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night were the ever present token of His abiding presence. He was journeying with His people, indeed His love would not rest until He had brought them into that good land and set them down in the midst of all their promised blessings.

How often when death claims a loved one, perhaps a dear father or mother, or one of our leaders, someone we have loved and leaned on, we are reminded that this is a changing scene: “here we have no continuing city"; but Christ abides, and “He is the Same, yesterday, today, and forever.” He has said, “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” (Heb. 13:5,8,14). He is going to bring us safe Home at last.

When Aaron passed away, Israel lost their sympathizing priest, but we shall never lose Christ. Our wilderness needs will be at an end when He comes to take us into the heavenly land. But the same blessed Lord, whose sympathies and love sustained us here below, will mister to our joy and happiness throughout that long and blest eternity.

ML-02/17/1974

Bert's Birthday Watch

BERT and his parents had gone to live in South Africa and his father was manager of a mine there. There were no towns nearby and in the little village where they lived there were no Sunday school or gospel meetings. But Bert’s father had learned at home in his youth to stand true to the Lord with purpose of heart, like Daniel, and let his light shine in the faraway land to which he had gone. He began a little Sunday school for children and an evening gospel meeting and God blessed his faithfulness. He had the joy of hearing one and another of those who came to the gospel confess the Lord Jesus as the One whom they trusted as their Saviour, for “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners” (1 Tim. 1:15).

One of the first to confess the Lord was Bert, his eldest boy, who came out boldly on the Lord’s side. And Bert “grew” (1 Peter 2:2) as he drank in “the pure milk of the Word” of God and made progress on the heavenly road.

On his first birthday after his conversion and confession of Christ Bert’s father presented him with a fine silver watch, which he valued highly, especially since it was his father’s gift. But one of the first fruits of the new life in the believer is unselfishness and willingness to sacrifice for Christ’s sake. And an opportunity was given to Bert to “deny himself” as a true disciple of Christ should be ready to do for the gospel’s sake (Matt. 16:24).

An African boy who had been attending the Sunday school had no Bible in his own language to read at home. When Bert heard this he decided to sell his watch to the jeweler and buy a Bible for the young African lad. The old jeweler was surprised when Bert told him what he was going to do with the money, but the bargain was made and Bert sent the money to Cape Town. In a few days the Bible arrived and the young African’s joy in receiving it made Bert feel bountifully repaid for his sacrifice.

This was the beginning of true Christian conduct with Bert and he went on Afterward in the ways of the Lord. He became a real soul-winner in that land where he first came to know the Lord and began to serve Him happily in a humble way.

ML-02/24/1974

Willing but Not Able

ONCE when Queen Victoria and a friend were on a sea voyage they watched with interest the course of a small bird that hovered near the ship. The sea was calm, like a sheet of glass, and the little bird, seemingly wearied in its flight, sought to rest on the bosom of the great deep. But as soon as its feet touched the cold wet water it quickly flew off again.

Then it tried to land on the brightly colored silk flag but as the flag waved gently in the breeze it flew off again. Again it circled the flag and its cry of distress reached her Majesty’s ears. How she longed to save that little bird and begged the sailors to try and help the tiny creature, but the men’s efforts were in vain. The frightened little thing only flew away, first landing on the water, then on the flag again, until at last exhausted it came down on the deck.

Queen Victoria picked up the quivering little thing, smoothed its feathers, hoping she might help restore its strength, but it was of no avail. The bird died in her hand. It was beyond the aid of even the Queen of England. Untold wealth was at her ‘command, immense power under her control, yet there she sat pitying but powerless —

WILLING BUT NOT ABLE TO SAVE

It was only a little bird but the tender heart of England’s monarch was moved with pity as she thought of the little life lost in the struggle.

How that little bird makes us think of a soul that has wandered away from God — lost, weary, unable to find a resting place in this world. But there is One who is far more deeply concerned for your soul, dear reader, than the Queen of England was for that little bird. JESUS, the Son of God, the lover of your soul is both

WILLING AND ABLE TO SAVE

He loved you so much as to die for you. And He wants to be your resting place. Do not seek a resting place elsewhere for there is no rest in either heaven or earth outside of Christ. Let Him and His all atoning work be your only trust, then you shall have the joy known only to those whose sins are forgiven and in whose hearts the love of God has been shed abroad (Rom. 5:5).

ML-02/24/1974

Tom's Conversion

TOM WAS a bright cheery boy, favorite with all who knew him. He was fond of music and played the piano well. But with all his good nature Tom was not happy. It might have been said of him as of the young man in the gospel, “One thing thou lackest.”

Tom was not saved. He had never come to the Saviour to have his sins forgiven so he was restless and dissatisfied. But God had His eye upon him and loved him, and in His own way was going to lead Tom to Himself. Tom’s dear Christian father often prayed for his boy, but his son became more restless until he decided he would leave home and go away where no one would speak to him about his soul or ask him if he were saved.

Across the ocean he went, far from home where he thought he would be free and happy. He tried to forget God, and seldom read his Bible. But sickness came and he was glad to stay for a little while in a Christian home where daily he heard the Bible read. It made him think of the loving Saviour he was rejecting, and he began to long for peace with God.

One evening he went to a gospel meeting where the verse was read, “The very hairs of your head are all numbered.” This struck Tom especially. God knows all the details of our lives. He is interested in the smallest things that can concern us and He cares for us. This was a new thought to Tom and he could not forget it. God was speaking to him.

He went home with a Christian friend who spoke to him of the love of Christ. They sat and talked until it was long past midnight. Tom could not pull himself away. He felt the Lord was seeking him and the great question had to be decided now: Which would he have, Christ or the world?

At last he said, “I’ve got to make a decision.” They both got on their knees asking the Lord’s help. What happened then is best told in Tom’s own words: “In less than two mites after being on my knees I had accepted the gracious offer of life through a crucified Saviour. I cannot say how long we were on our knees but when we arose I was resting on the finished work of Christ.”

The next morning at breakfast he told his friend, “I have found the Saviour,” and his friend added, “And the Saviour has found you.” No wonder he wrote home: “I went to work a happier fellow than ever I was before. I am proud to confess Christ as my Saviour and enjoy reading His Word.” Tom had found the secret of true happiness.

Dear reader, what the Lord did for Tom, He can do for you. “The very hairs of your head are all numbered.” He loves you, He died for you. Won’t you trust Him?

ML-02/24/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 21:1-6

WE NEXT hear of Israel’s encounter with king Arad the Canaanite. Israel had sent no request to him as they had to the king of Edom, but Arad, when he heard of their approach went out and fought against Israel and took some of them prisoners. Israel met with the same treatment from both Edom and the Canaanite. The world has ever been contrary to those whom God is leading through it to their heavenly land.

Israel vowed unto the Lord, sang, “If Thou wilt indeed deliver this people into my hand, then I will utterly destroy their cities.” God was gracious and delivered up the Canaanites so that they utterly destroyed them and their cities.

But the occasion of victory is often a time of great danger; and so it was with Israel. As they journeyed from mount Hor by way of the Red Sea to compass the land of Edom, “the soul of the people was much discouraged because of the way.”

We know that the generation that came out of Egypt had for the most part all died in the wilderness so that those we read about here were a new generation. Perhaps had they gone into the land before this they might have said, “We are different to our fathers; we would not have spoken or acted as they did.” But now the children are put to the test, and their entry into the wilderness again only brings out that they are in themselves the very same people in the fortieth year as at the first.

God’s mercies are lost upon a people with no faith. Would not the victory God had just given them over Arad the Canaanite be sufficient proof that He would not let them die in the wilderness? And yet we read that “The people spake against God, and against Moses, Wherefore have ye brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? How often had they murmured against Moses; now they murmur against God.

In Numbers 11 The people had said, We remember the flesh pots of Egypt, and our soul is dried away because there is nothing at all but this manna before our eyes. The psalmist calls the manna “angels’ food” (Psalm 78), but here the people show their extreme ingratitude and dislike for the things of God by saying, “our soul loatheth this light bread.” They would admit it was good but they “loathed” it.

This tells, does it not, that no matter how refined or educated, the natural heart dislikes Christ. He is the true Bread which came down from heaven, of which the manna in the wilderness is but a type. Yet the Jews’ hatred of Christ went far beyond Israel’s “loathing” the manna in the wilderness; they despised and crucified that blessed One who came down from heaven. It was different circumstances but the same fallen nature telling itself out in wickedness and rebellion against God and His Son.

Surely these things are written for our learning for our hearts when left to themselves are no better. God’s answer to Israel’s sin was the brazen serpent. The bite of the fiery serpent taught Israel that the poison was in their blood and that there was nothing for them but death. The serpent lifted up tells us that God’s provision for our state of death is in the death of another, who was made the very thing that has bitten us. So the Lord Jesus, the Son of man was lifted up upon the cross, made sin for us (2 Cor. 5:21). God got rid of our sinful nature on the cross. “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.” John 3:14,15.

Memory Verse: “BUT AS MANY AS RECEIVED HIM, TO THEM GAVE HE POWER TO BECOME THE SONS OF GOD, EVEN TO THEM THAT BELIEVE ON HIS NAME.” John 1:12

ML-02/24/1974

A Wonderful Lion

A REMARKABLE story of a lion is told by an African missionary. He had caught the lion while it was very young and brought it to his house. It was carefully and tenderly brought up along with several tame animals, and as it grew, it seemed to have lost the savage nature belonging to a lion. For several years it continued to move about the missionary’s homestead, and would even walk into the rooms and play with the children. A picture showed the missionary’s little daughter, riding on the tame lion’s back!

But one day the tame lion wandered into the forest, where the savage growls of the wild lions were often heard. Very likely falling in with some of his own kindred, he got into his native den, and was seen no more. He had still the lion’s nature. It might be tamed but it could not be changed, and when he got out among other lions, he no doubt became just like them.

There is a solemn lesson here for every boy and girl. The sinner’s nature is enmity against God. One may appear very amiable, and even be outwardly like a Christian, but unless you are born again, and have a new nature implanted in you, you are liable any day to go into the worst sins that you see ungodly men commit.

The only way of deliverance is by being born again. In the new birth you get a new and heavenly life "the life of God” — which enables those who have it to rise above sin and worldly things.

And there is no difficulty, no mystery, as the way in which this new life is to be had.

It is given to all who believe on the Lord Jesus. His own words are, “He that believeth on Me, HATH everlasting life.” (John 3:36); “He that hath the Son HATH Life.” (1 John 5:9). Can you say this life is yours?

ML-03/03/1974

A Little Irish Girl's Conversion

NELLIE is a little girl who lives in the north of Ireland and here she tells the simple story of how the Lord met her in His grace and saved her.

“I was saved two years ago,” she says, “by believing in the Lord Jesus. I had a companion who went to the same Sunday school, and one afternoon as we met in the meadow she told me that she was saved. I asked her how she knew. She said: “Because I believe that Jesus died for me, and He says, whosoever believeth in Him should not perish. Whosoever means everybody, and if you believe in Him He will save you too.”

“I never knew it was so simple as that. I just told Jesus that I did believe in Him, and that I did come to Him as a sinner. I know He saved me, for His Word says it. I grew happy soon after that, when I knew that I was saved. That was two years ago, and I am happier now than ever.”

ML-03/03/1974

God Is Love

CAPTAIN Dunlop was a Canadian missionary. Riding horseback through a Quebec forest one day, he saw an Indian cabin. Fierce dogs barked and tugged at their chains. If he called, would the Indian be friendly or angry?

As he stood wondering, the door opened and the Indian’s son appeared. He spoke kindly to the missionary. He told him that his father was a friendly Indian, and wished him to come in.

Captain Dunlop believed what the son said and was no longer afraid.

Have you believed what God’s Son has said about His Father? Jesus came from His home in heaven to tell us that His Father loves us. Indeed, “The Father sent the Son.” 1 John 4:14.

Satan would have us believe that God does not love us. But Satan is a liar.

Our guilty feelings may make us afraid, because God is holy and we are sinners.

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

“In Him we read the Father’s love

And find eternal peace;

We meet in Him a Saviour God

And fears and terrors cease.”

ML-03/03/1974

Not Saints but Sinners

THE WORD that was used in bringing me to the Saviour was Romans 5:8: “But God commendeth His love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Romans 5:8.

I can never forget the deliverance followed by the peace which came to me when the light of that glorious truth dawned upon my soul, that it was not saints but sinners that Jesus came to save, that it is bad and not good people, it is the unrighteous and not holy ones that God receives and forgives for His sake.

For long years I had tried to make myself a saint, tried to sin less, tried to live better in the hope that God would favor me because of this and grant me mercy at the last day. Most of the preaching we heard favored this idea. We were earnestly taught to be good and to do good, to go to church, to read the Bible and that in some way which was not made very clear, God would show us mercy and forgive whatever sins remained unaccounted for by these good deeds.

There was nothing of Christ taught save as a good Example and an Intercessor for us in pleading for mercy to be granted in the judgment. No free and known present salvation was ever spoken of, nor had I ever met any who owned they had it.

You may understand my surprise when a friend wrote saying she had been “saved while attending some evangelistic meetings” held in that town and that the words that led her to the Saviour were those in Romans 5:8. She said, “It is not saints but sinners, not good people but bad people that God loves and Jesus saves. That is where nearly everybody makes mistakes: they want to make themselves good, and think that God will save them then, whereas God saves sinners just as they are, and all for Jesus’ sake. He justifies the ungodly (Romans 4:5).

I did not like this line of things at first and my proud heart rebelled against it, but bit by bit my pride was humbled and I had to take my place as a sinner, with nothing, and able to do nothing. Then the Lord in His love saved me.

Oh that I could with the voice of a trumpet tell it far and wide that “While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Rom. 5:8.

“But to him that worketh not, but believeth on Him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness.” Rom. 4:5.

Memory Verse: “THE HOLY SCRIPTURES, WHICH ARE ABLE TO MAKE THEE WISE UNTO SALVATION THROUGH FAITH WHICH IS IN CHRIST JESUS.” 2 Timothy 3:15

ML-03/03/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 21:6-9

“AND the LORD said unto Moses, Make thee a fiery serpent, and set it upon a pole: and it shall come to pass, that every one that is bitten, when he looketh upon it, shall live.”

In the garden of Eden the serpent instilled his poison into the heart and nature of Adam, and man became a transgressor. No longer was he innocent, but his whole moral being before God was changed. Now he had a sinful nature — the flesh — which could only bring forth sins. Death came in as a result, for God in judgment joined death to sin. “Wherefore as by one man sin entered into the world and death by sin.” Rom. 5:12.

But God is also rich in mercy and long before Adam sinned and came under the sentence of death He had already devised that blessed plan of salvation whereby He might rescue and bless poor fallen man. So though He must in righteous judgment join death with sin, now through the work of His beloved Son in grace He has joined life with faith for the soul that looks and sees Jesus dying on the cross for him.

Life through the death of another is, we believe, the grand truth set forth in the serpent lifted up in the wilderness, in the midst of the perishing thousands of Israel.

The serpent lifted up

Could life and healing give;

So Jesus on the cross

Once died that we might live;

That whosoever will believe

Shall everlasting life receive.

The blood of the sin offering purges and cleanses from sins, the ashes of the red heifer was for cleansing from defilements along the way, but man’s fallen nature the flesh — can never be cleansed. The old man is unchanged even in the believer. And this the trials and difficulties of the wilderness only bring out, for when the soul of the people was discouraged they murmured against God and His servant Moses, and there was in their hearts the constant regret that they had left Egypt. This was the fruit of the flesh, and so far there was no sacrifice to meet its deep evil.

But now we learn that God’s provision for the old nature — flesh — is death. In the death of Christ God has found a way — the only way — to put away the old man sin — from before Him. “He hath made Him to be sin for us, who knew no sin, that we might be made the righteousness of God in Him.” 1 Cor. 5:21. Christ was made sin and died, and so for us as believers He becomes our deliverance from its power.

The flesh — the old nature in us — is incurable; it can never be reconciled to God, and will ever break out into sins. Only through death, the death of Christ, does the believer know deliverance from its power. And yet as surely as death is the result of sin, so life eternal is the blessed result of looking by faith at Christ made sin for us.

The Apostle could say, “I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me.” Gal. 2:20.

ML-03/03/1974

"All Aboard" Or, John's Conclusion

THERE LIVED in a town in the western United States, a family of three — father, mother, and a little boy named John. They were very poor. When death suddenly took both father and mother away, there was not much left for poor little John, after the funeral expenses were paid.

In his trouble, John thought of an uncle whom he had heard his father and mother speak of but this uncle lived in Chicago. That was a long way off, and John had no money.

One day he wandered down to the railway station, and as he stood on the platform, a train came rushing in. He asked a gentleman standing near where it was going.

“To Chicago!”

“Chicago!” thought John; “that’s where I want to go, and so he crept nearer the train.

Presently, he heard the conductor shout, “All aboard!” and with that, the bell on the engine began to ring.

“All aboard!” thought John; “that means ‘everybody aboard,’ and if everybody is invited to get aboard, why, that means me.”

At that instant the voice of the conductor shouted again, “ALL ABOARD!” and without further hesitation, John clambered on the train, and into a seat.

The train moved on and in a little while the conductor came for the tickets. But John had no ticket, nor had he any money. The stern conductor told him to leave the train at the next stopping place.

This he did, but to his astonishment and delight, he heard the conductor shout again, “ALL ABOARD!” and so he once more took his place in the train.

Angrily the conductor said “Didn’t I tell you to leave the train at the last station.”

“Yes,” replied John, “and so I did, but you said “ALL aboard”, and I thought that meant me, and so I got on again.”

The conductor saw the point of the boy’s mistake, but the child was evidently honest, and so after finding out his sad little story, he let him ride freely to the journey’s end.

“ALL” includes YOU in a truer sense than it did little John. “ALL we like sheep have gone astray.”

Isa. 53:6. “ALL have sinned and come short of the glory of God.” The gospel is for ALL, and includes you.

“For there is no difference...: for the same Lord over all is rich unto ALL that call upon Him. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Rom. 10:12,13.

ML-03/10/1974

Saved in the Bush

YOU WOULD have loved Aunt Gertie. We met her first in a little gospel hall in Gordon Bay, Ontario. She was very old — one of the pioneers — and had attended the meetings there all her long hard life. Her face was all furrows and wrinkles; her hands work-worn and hard. But her smile was radiant as the sunshine; and her hearty handshake genuine and warm.

“How long have you known Jesus?” we asked.

“Ever since I got lost in the bush.” “Tell us about it.”

“I was eight years old. Already I knew I was lost in my sins. But hunting up the cows one hot summer day I got lost in the woods. I ran and ran till I thought I would die of thirst. So I knelt down and called, “Oh God, give me a drink.” Right away, I found a drink waiting. There in front of me was a hole punched in the soft ground by a cow’s foot long before. It was full of clear rain water. So while I knelt, I drank”

At the same moment, by faith, she saw Jesus offering her the living water (John 4:10). She only had to take it. And take it she did.

Late in the day, when at last she reached home with the cows, Gertie was a new creature in Christ Jesus for God declares “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). Had not Jesus said, “If any man thirst let him come unto Me and drink"? She came, she drank, she was saved. And from that day she became a willing worker for Jesus, always serving others, and helping to bring others to Him.

Jesus gave her water

that was not from the well;

Jesus gave her water

that was not from the well;

She went away singing,

she came back bringing

Others for the water

that was not from the well.

Jesus still gives water

that is not from the well;

Jesus still gives water

that is not from the well;

To all who come believing

and His own Word receiving,

He’ll give the heavenly water

that is not from the well.

Memory Verse: “WHOSOEVER SHALL NOT RECEIVE THE KINGDOM OF GOD AS A LITTLE CHILD SHALL IN NO WISE ENTER THEREIN.” Luke 18:17

ML-03/10/1974

Now Is the Time

IN MANY countries there are “secret visitors” — people who do not want to go back to their homeland. Although it is against the law, they often remain unnoticed for years. They are called aliens, which means belonging elsewhere. For the most part, they are afraid to go to the authorities for permission to stay, because they may be arrested and sent home.

In Canada recently it was decided to pardon all these illegal aliens. The government invited them, one and all, to apply for permission to stay. It was a sixty-day, last-chance, “all is forgiven” offer. Nearly fifty thousand came forward to accept it. About four thousand applied at the eleventh hour!

One man came just fifteen mites before the deadline. “Now I’m free, I’m happy, I don’t have to hide!” he exclaimed.

Many years ago, when there had been a rebellion in Northern Scotland, King William III made a proclamation that all who came and took the oath of allegiance by the 31St of December should be pardoned.

MacIan, the proud chief of one rebellious clan, decided to return with the rest of the rebels; but resolved that he would be the very last one to take the oath. So he delayed his journey until the 29th of December, just two days before the offer expired.

Alas, a snowstorm hindered him, and before he arrived to receive the pardon, the time was past. While others were set free, MacIan was miserably put to death.

Dear young friends, remember MacIan’s terrible mistake. Come to Christ now. It is God, against whom you have sinned, who says, “Behold, NOW is the day of salvation.” 2 Cor. 6:2.

ML-03/10/1974

"Call on Me"

“HELP"! The shrill cry echoed across the water. It was Olive calling. She was swimming with her friend Nessie in the Prairie River; but the treacherous current had carried the two girls far from the bank. Olive suddenly realized that Nessie was in trouble. She was not only out of her depth, but without strength to swim back to land. Olive knew she could not save Nessie.

But her call for help was heard on the river bank. Immediately a strong swimmer was in the water and swam swiftly to Olive’s side.

“Not me!” she cried, “save Nessie!” Soon strong arms were carrying Nessie to safety. Rescued just in time!

Many are drifting down the stream of time in grave danger of being lost forever. Have you ever called to the Lord Jesus to save a friend of yours? Or to save you?

“Call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me.” Psalm 50:15.

“Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Rom. 10: 13.

ML-03/10/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 21:10-17

AT THE Red Sea God showed that He was for His people Israel and their Egyptian enemy was utterly overthrown, but the serpent of brass shows how the “flesh” is overcome. It was condemned and judged by God in the death of Christ. When the believer realizes this by faith he is able to rise above the circumstances of the wilderness and finds there springs of living water. It isn’t that the wilderness has changed at all, but now he can joy in God through our Lord Jesus Christ and sing songs of praise.

So it was after the lesson of the serpent lifted up that Israel really began to make progress on the joey. Earlier in the chapter we read of them journeying by way of the Red Sea, but now they are pitching their tents in the wilderness before Moab, toward the sunrising. If we have learned what it is to have died to sin, to the flesh, through the death of Christ, we too shall find ourselves enjoying in our souls the sunshine of His love while our hearts look and long for His coming.

A few short marches and Israel were at the brooks of Arnon where it appears the Lord must have performed some great and wonderful act of power, for Arnon is linked with His triumphs at the Red Sea. “Wherefore it is said in the book of the wars of the Lord, What He did in the Red Sea, and in the brooks of Arnon....” It seems as if God, having borne in patience the murmurings, the stubbornness and rebellion of Israel those long forty years, had only been waiting for the opportunity to open up the fountain of His love on them in blessing. So it was that after Moses had lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, and they had gone to Arnon, we then read of them going to Beer. “That is the well whereof the Lord spake unto Moses, Gather the people together, and I will give them water.”

Unlike the former occasions when in answer to the people’s murmurings He told Moses to smite the rock and the waters gushed out, here He does not wait to be asked but He promises the water beforehand and tells them the well is at Beer.

How precious to think of God yearning over man throughout the long ages of his sad sinful history, waiting for the opportunity when He could come out and bless him on righteous grounds. The death of Christ provided the occasion for no sooner had Jesus died than the floodgates were opened and the mighty love of God burst forth in saving power and blessing to man wherever he is found. The gospel proclaims that “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.

God has His own joy in His love and in blessing others; He tells Moses to “Gather the people tether, and I will give them water.”

“Then Israel sang this song, Spring up, O well.” This looks on to Israel’s future blessing, when God will pour floods upon the thirsty ground, and Israel shall draw water with joy from the wells of salvation” (Isa. 12). But it has a deeper meaning for us, the Church, now for it is our privilege and portion to drink of those living streams of life, to enjoy every spiritual blessing in the heavenlies in Christ.

ML-03/10/1974

"Jesus Never Fails"

Hebrews 1:12.

IN A SUBURB of one of our large American cities stood a little old shed. It was used regularly by a group of newsboys who gathered after school to pack their bags with the daily newspaper. Strange to tell but there was hanging on a wall in the old shed a grimy little text, which read,

“JESUS NEVER FAILS.”

It was probably older than the shed itself. No one seemed to notice it, or knew how it got there. But God used it.

One of the boys was a Jewish lad named Dave. He was much smaller than his companions, and not very strong. One day he failed to turn up to deliver his papers as usual. He had taken sick and had to stay in bed.

It proved to be a long illness from which he never recovered. Occasionally Joe and Barney, two of the older paper boys, would visit Dave.

During one of their visits, Dave whispered to them: “Listen something tells me I am going to-die. You know that ‘Jesus Never Fails’ sign on the wall of the shed? Prose me, that when they put me in the box, you will put that sign in the box with me.” To this they solemnly agreed.

It was not long after this that Dave did die, and Joe and Barney remembered their promise. Tether they visited the home where Dave’s body lay in a little coffin, the cover of which was closed. Hien beneath Joe’s coat vas the text, “Jesus Never Fails."

But how to get the text into “the box” with Dave was another proem, for Dave’s father and mother stood near; and both parents hated Jesus.

But the boys had a plan. Barney asked the parents if they would go with him into the kitchen for a minute to count some money he had collected for Dave along his paper route. Together they followed him out of the room, leaving Joe alone. Quietly he raised the cover of the coffin and taking the text from beneath his coat, laid it reverently on Dave’s frail folded arms. Then quickly lowering the cover again for the last time, he joined the others in the kitchen. Only he and Barney knew what he had done.

So Dave, as he had wished, was buried with the text he secretly loved. Better still, we believe his soul went to be with Jesus who never fails even the smallest, weakest child who believes in Him.

Jesus never fails,

Heaven and earth shall pass away;

But Jesus never fails.

“He shall gather the lambs with His arm and carry them in His bosom.” Isa. 40:11.

Safe in Christ; safe in Christ!

He’s their glory ever;

None can pluck them from His hand,

They shall perish never.

ML-03/17/1974

Sand Is Weighty

Proverbs 27:3

ONE TINY grain of sand is weighty? Why, you could not weigh anything so small! It takes millions and millions of grains to make a bag of sand. But a bag of sand can be too heavy to lift.

To us, it is only because of the great multitudes of grains that “sand is weighty".

We may think our sins too are too small to be weighed or counted, and so make light of them. But how “weighty” they are to God! And how many! He knows and weighs them every one.

Job said to God: “My transgression is sealed up in a bag, and Thou sewest up mine iniquity.” Job 14:17.

What a comfort to those who trust in Jesus for their salvation to know that when He hung upon the cross, “the Lord... laid on Him the iniquity [sins] of us all"! (Isaiah 53:6.)

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

ML-03/17/1974

"Mine"

A SUNDAY School teacher was speaking to her class about Jesus as a personal Saviour.

“Many speak of Jesus as a Saviour, but God wants us to say He is my Saviour,” she said. “Suppose someone was talking about your dear mother and asked, “Is she a mother?’ What would you say?”

“I would say she is mine,” answered bright-eyed Jeannie.

“Yes", said the teacher, “and that would be right. Can you say of Jesus, ‘He is mine'?”

Jeannie hung her head, but that simple question was the means of leading her to claim Jesus as her very own Saviour. Now she can say, not only that He is a Saviour; but He is mine. Can you?

ML-03/17/1974

The Bible

“JUST HOW do you know that ag the Bible is different from other books?” demanded a flippant girl of about seventeen.

Her question was addressed to a servant of God who had just closed a gospel meeting on a street corner in a sea coast town in Newfoundland.

The girl was spokesman for an antagonistic band of teenagers that had gathered to see what might happen next.

Convinced that the proofs of inspiration would be over the heads of his listeners, the preacher replied: “Here’s one way you can put it to the test; just start carrying a Bible wherever you go — now I mean everywhere. Your friends will soon let you know that the Bible is different from other books.”

The girl thought a moment, and then in subdued tones said, “Oh, yes, I see what you mean.”

That ended the confrontation; the group joined the milling crowd and moved on.

How differently the Christian boy or girl regards the Bible! Take for example the following little anecdote: A college professor said to a young fellow on graduation day.

“Now, my boy, understand that you are going to launch your craft on a dangerous ocean.”

“Yes, I know it", said the boy, and taking a Bible out of his pocket and holding it up he added, “but you see I have a safe compass to steer by.”

ML-03/17/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 21:18-20

“ISRAEL sang this song, Spring up, O well; sing ye unto it.” In the springing well here it is not so much God satisfying the thirst of the people as in the smiting of the rock; but it is more His own joy in blessing abundantly those who had found life in looking at the serpent of brass lifted up for them in the wilderness. God longs to bless His people now and it is when we know the full and finished work of Christ as typified in the brazen serpent, that divine love is free to fill and overflow our hearts.

The blessed Spirit, the Comforter, has come to indwell our hearts and by His power we can sing praise to God our Father and to His Son our Lord Jesus Christ.

We are told in Romans 6:11: “Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God, through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Victory over the flesh — sin in us — through death lifts the believer above his natural condition and puts a song of gladness in his heart.

But this is not reckoning the flesh dead, for if we do we will soon realize our mistake. How often have we found to our disappointment that the flesh is very much alive. “If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us.” 1 John 1:8. We are told to reckon ourselves dead to sin, that we have died to it through the death of Christ, and this is God’s way of giving us victory over it.

Of course it is only by faith that we can do this, but it is the privilege of every believer in Christ.

“The princes digged the well, the nobles of the people digged it, by the direction of the lawgiver, with their staves.” At the Red Sea the children of Israel did nothing, and it was so when the rock was smitten; the waters gushed out. The Lord did it all. But here it is the energy of faith laying hold of the blessings which God in His grace puts within our reach. The princes and nobles digged with their staves.

Evidently they were those who knew little or nothing about digging, and not much digging was required. But pure blessing, so near at hand, flowed forth abundantly in the wilderness.

Now that Christ has been lifted up upon the cross, God would have us in the energy of faith to take hold of the blessings His grace has provided for us in Christ. “He that spared not His own Son, but delivered Him up for us all, how shall He not with Him also freely give us all things?” Rom 8:32.

ML-03/17/1974

A Race for Life

The City of Refuge

IN THE promised land God appointed six hill cities to which a man might flee for safety if he by accident became a manslayer, hang killed his fellow-man unawares.

A Refuge City (Joshua 20:2)

To this city the manslayer might flee if pursued by the avenger, the slain man’s relative. In a way these cities are a picture of Christ, the sinner’s refuge, his hiding place and security.

A Plain Way (Deut. 19:3)

A plain way was prepared along which the man in his distress and danger might run to reach the city of refuge. It would be plain and well-marked, so that no one could mistake it. So is God’s way of salvation. “And a highway shall be there, and a way, and it shall be called The way of holiness;... the wayfaring men, though fools, shall not err therein.” Isa. 35:8. “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31.

A Ready Welcome (Josh. 20:4)

A ready welcome was given to the fleeing manslayer by the elders of the city, who as soon as the man declared “his cause,” welcomed him there. The Lord Jesus says, “Him that cometh to Me, I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

A Safe Habitation (Josh. 20:5)

Once within the gate the man was safe. The avenger dare not follow him further. So the sinner “in Christ” is safe. To him there is “no condemnation” and from Christ there is “no separation” (Rom. 8:1,35). “The name of the Lord is a strong tower: the righteous runneth into it, and is safe.” Prov. 18:10.

Memory Verse: “BLESSED ARE THEY WHOSE INIQUIES ARE FORGIVEN, AND WHOSE SINS ARE COVERED.” Romans 4:7

ML-03/17/1974

Perhaps Tonight.

WHILE crossing the street, in the great city of London, a little boy named Charlie was knocked down by a van and badly injured. Through a miracle, he escaped instant death but both his legs were terribly crushed under the wheels.

He was taken to the hospital, and there he was able to talk with a little invalid girl named Susan, who lay in the bed next to his. Susan was one of Jesus’ little lambs and she was not long in telling Charlie how Jesus loved him, how He suffered such pain and death, so that little children might be saved and go to heaven.

After many pain-filled days and nights, the doctors decided that Charlie’s injured limbs must be amputated if his life was to be saved. But God had something far better-in store for him.

That very night, just before the lights in the ward were put out, Charlie was heard crying softly.

Susan asked him what was the matter.

“Aren’t you afraid of the dark?” he said, “and don’t you know I may never be able to run and play anymore?”

“I’m not afraid of the dark,” replied Susan. “Jesus watches over us all through the night. Besides perhaps tonight He will come and take us home to heaven. There we shall both be All better.”

“If He comes tonight, are you sure He will take me too?” asked Charlie.

“If you are trusting Him as your own Saviour, I know He will,” she replied.

“But I am so small, and this bed is so big. I am afraid He would not see me if He came by here tonight.

“I know,” he continued, “I will hold up my hand. He will be sure to see me then, and know that I am here waiting for Him.”

With his little hand raised as high as he could, Charlie sank into a deep sleep — from which he never awoke in this world.

In the morning, the nurses found his little hand still raised in death. But we believe his precious soul had gone to be with Jesus, who indeed came that night and did not pass him by.

“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.

Memory Verse: “THEREFORE BE YE ALSO READY: FOR IN SUCH AN HOUR AS YE THINK NOT THE SON OF MAN COMETH.” Matthew 24:44

ML-03/24/1974

I Was One of Them

A CLASS of little girls was asked by their Sunday school teacher, to tell the various things that Jesus came to do. One girl said, “He came to tell us of God’s love.” Another said, “He came to be a light in the world” and still another replied, “He came to die.”

One little girl said quietly, “He came to seek and to save that which was lost; and I was one of them.”

Everyone looked at her, surprised at her strange answer. Afterward, when the rest had gone home, the teacher drew little Mina to her side, and asked, “What did you mean by saying, I was one of them, Mina?”

“Because you told us a long time ago that all of us were lost sinners, and that we could not go to heaven unless we are saved,” was her answer. “I knew that I was one of them. Then you told us that Jesus came to seek and to save the lost, and that He loved lost sinners. I knew that if He loved the lost, then He loved me, for I was one of them, and I believed it, and have been happy ever since.”

ML-03/24/1974

Poor and Needy

YEARS AGO, in New York, when one of the richest men in the city lay dying, he asked his attendants to sing for him. They sang the well known gospel hymn.

“Come, ye sinners, poor and needy.” In plaintive tones the dying millionaire said, “Yes, please sing that again for me. I am poor and needy.”

The world promises much but gives but little. How worthless are a million dollars to one about to die and meet God! “Riches profit not in the day of wrath.” Prov. 11:4.

But how rich is even the poorest one who has Christ!

“For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye, through His poverty might be rich.” 2 Cor. 8:9.

COME, ye sinners, poor and needy,

Weak and wounded, sick and sore;

Jesus ready stands to save you,

Full of pity, love, and power.

He is able;

He is willing: doubt no more.

ML-03/24/1974

John Bunyan

WHEN John Bunyan — who wrote the Pilgrims Progress — was a lad, he was not a good boy, but a very bad one.

One day he was standing by a little store window and heard some people swearing. So he began to swear too.

An angry woman from the shop came out and said, “Shame on you! shame on you! You will be the ruin of the parish, swearing in that way!”

John hung his head and began to cry, “O God!” he sobbed, “that I could be a little child again, that I might forget all these wicked words and know nothing about them!”

And that’s just what happened when Jesus came into his heart. In spirit he did become a little child once more, for he was “born again” and his sins were washed away.

“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.

ML-03/24/1974

Beginning to Live

TWO little boys, Alex and Bill, stood talking together. Alex was ten years old, and Bill only six.

“Bill", said Alex, “It’s just a year and a half since I began to live.”

“And I have not begun to live yet,” said Bill sadly.

Do you know what these two little boys meant? Alex meant it was just a year and a half since he had learned to love Jesus. And poor Bill meant that he was not “born again,” and that he did not love Jesus at all. This made him very miserable; indeed, so miserable that a kind friend noticed his sad face, and got to know the cause of all his trouble. He soon found for him that beautiful verse, “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life.” John 3:36.

Bill believed it and it made him so happy. He took a pencil and paper and copied out the whole verse; he called it his text. He then took every Bible in the house and marked the verse with his pencil so that he might always be able to find it in any of the Bibles.

ML-03/24/1974

Ben Syra

YEARS AGO, in an Eastern land, there lived a boy named Ben Syra. When quite young he begged his teacher to instruct him from the Bible. But the teacher refused, saying, “You are too young yet to be taught the sacred mysteries.”

“But, master,” insisted the child, “I have been to the graveyard and measured the graves, and found some of them shorter than myself; now, if I should die before I have learned the Word of God, what will become of me then, master?”

“From a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation.”

ML-03/24/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 21:21-35

AND ISRAEL sent messengers unto Sihon king of the Amorites, saying, Let me pass through thy land: we will not turn into the fields, or into the vineyards; we will not drink of the waters of the well: but we will go along by the king’s highway, until we be past thy borders.”

Israel failed to rise to the height of the blessing God had for them. Is it not so with us His people now? Israel had sent messengers to the king of Edom asking permission to pass through his land, and he had refused. But then neither Edom nor Moab formed part of the gift of God to Israel: Israel were told not to contend or meddle with either. But it was not so with Sihon, for the land of the Amorite had been given to Israel for a possession. Therefore it was not faith in them to ask Sihon for permission to quietly pass through his land.

However the grace of God rose above Israel’s unbelief and when Sihon came out against Israel God gave them a great victory, for Israel smote him, took all his land and dwelt in his cities. In an earlier day the Amorites had taken that land from the Moabite, and now Israel under God’s hand took it away from the Amorites.

We must not allow anything to hinder us from possessing our heavenly blessings which God has given us in Christ. Conflict there will surely be but we must be willing to fight the Lord’s battles. Peace at any price is not God’s peace, for He has paid a great price to purchase peace for us, even the blood of His dear Son. Should we then draw back from conflict in seeking to “possess” what He has already won for us at such infinite cost?

In this passage we read of the Amorites’ boast over Moab. Now in the government of God the tables are turned and Israel boasts in their victory over the Amorite. “We have shot at them; Heshbon is perished ... and we have laid them waste.”

In verse 29 they say: “Woe to thee, Moab! thou art undone, O people of Chemosh.” Chemosh was Moab’s god. How sad to find years later that Israel had turned away from the Lord who had given them this glorious victory and were worshipping Chemosh, the abomination of Moab! Such is the human heart; “deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked.” (Jer. 17:9).

Surely these things were written for our learning. May we learn from them to distrust these hearts of ours and to lean only upon God.

Then we read, “Moses sent to spy out Jaazer...” v. 32. Again we see the lack of confidence in God, but again His grace rises above Israel’s failure. Og, king of Bashan, went out with all his people to battle against Israel. God’s word was, “Fear him not; for I have delivered him into thy hand.” So Israel smote him and his people till there was none left alive, and they possessed all his land.

As Israel nears the end of their wilderness journey it seems the grace of God only shines the brighter. And is it not so with us? The grace and goodness of God shine the brighter as we draw nearer the end. Soon our conflict will all be over and we shall see our Saviour face to face in that land of eternal rest.

ML-03/24/1974

A Sikh Boy Saved

JOHN was a poor Indian boy from the Punjab. His childless Uncle and Aunt lived in Singapore and they offered to adopt John as their own son. There were other boys and girls in the family and so his parents agreed. John left his home in the beautiful country and went to live in a hot, busy city. There friends were few and he grew very homesick.

His uncle worked as a watchman for a large building where there were shops and apartments. John usually sat at the front gate gazing into space, the picture of abject misery. His one diversion was to go to the Sikh temple every week and follow the rites of the Sikh religion. Though only fourteen years of age, he was a very religious boy, and would rise early every morning to read the Sacred Sikh books.

At this time, one of God’s servants, living in an apartment in the building, took note of John, and felt very sorry for the lonely lad. They could not speak each other’s language, but kindness and love is understood in every part of the world, and John soon had a friend. It was not long before he knew enough English to converse a little. Then a Christian lady came along with a little record player with some records in John’s language. These she played and for the first time in his life John heard the story of Jesus and His love for sinners.

Time went on, and the missionary and his daughter had to leave Singapore, but another lady came to take their place. At the little bookroom they operated, they sold and distributed Bibles and Christian literature in the various languages spoken in that city.

By this time, John had become an employee at the shop, and was a useful lad to have around, but he still clung to his Sikh religion. He did his very best to live an upright moral life, and thereby gain merit for the life beyond the grave. Indeed, his conduct would put many a professing Christian to shame.

One evening John came on his bicycle, dressed in dazzling white. His Christian friend was so surprised!

“Why, John,” she exclaimed, “where have you been? You are all so beautifully clean and white from your turban to your white shoes.”

“I have been to the temple,” John replied. “When I go there, I don’t eat any food. I have a bath, and put on everything clean and white. We must be clean to go to the temple, you know.”

“Ah John,” answered his friend, “you are all so beautifully clean and white outside, what about your heart inside?”

John’s head dropped, his lips began to quiver, and with a broken voice he replied, “My heart is very black, I can’t make it clean.”

Then his friend told him again, as she had done before, of the blood of Jesus Christ, God’s Son, which cleanses the sin of everyone who in simple faith will believe this. John took it all in but made no decision. He must weigh the cost first. For a Sikh to become a Christian is no light matter. So they said good-night.

Thank God, not many days later, John came to his friends who had been praying that the good seed sown in his heart would take root, spring up and bear fruit. He told them his heart was now whiter than snow. He had accepted the Lord Jesus as his Saviour and had found peace with God. The days following were not easy for John, but the Lord has been faithful, and today he is learning more of His love and is serving Him in his native land.

ML-03/31/1974

Little Amy's Prayer

AMY WAS just seven years old, but she loved the Lord Jesus and God had taught her where to go and what to do in time of trouble. He loves to hear little children pray and ask Him for the things they need. He will answer the prayer of faith, for the Lord Jesus said, “Whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.” (Matt. 21:22.)

Amy’s mother had passed away and she lived with her stepmother, who did not seem to understand a little child’s problems and was rather cross at times. One day she sent Amy to the store but on the way the little girl’s shoe lace came undone. She stopped at a door step, put her money down on the step and tied her shoe. Then she ran off on her way, forgetting the money and not until she had got to the store did she remember she had left it behind. When she came back it was gone and she was fearful lest she should be punished for her neglect.

What could a little girl do now? Amy remembered that God had said, “Call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me.” Psalm 50:15. She wanted to kneel down at once and ask God to help her, but she did not like to kneel down in the street. Looking around she saw someone’s front door open and though it was a strange house she slipped inside unnoticed, knelt down behind the door and poured out her little heart to God in prayer. And He who loves little children heard her prayer and did answer it, in fact He had already taken care of her problem, for has He not said, “Before they call, I will answer"? (Isaiah 65:24.) Little Amy rose from her knees, dried her tears and went on her way home feeling sure that God would make all right for her.

Now God had put it into the heart of a kind gentleman who, seeing the money, picked it up and left it with a grocer close by, telling him to watch because some child must have left it and would soon be coming back for it. So when Amy passed by on her way home there was the kind grocer waiting to give it to her.

How pleased Amy was to find God had answered her prayer so soon, and how she thanked and praised Him for His kindness. How light and happy was her heart as she returned to the store to get the things her mother had told her to buy.

May we learn, dear young friends, to be like little Amy, to first trust the Lord for our salvation and then to take everything — our joys and our sorrows — to Him in prayer.

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Psalm 46:1.

“Call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me.” Psalm 50: 15.

ML-03/31/1974

"Me, Too"

ON A stone that marks the grave of a little boy, who was only three when he died, are the words,

“ME, TOO”

Asked by a friend what the words meant, the boy’s father explained: “In our home, when we spoke of Jesus and His love for children, our little boy would point to himself and say, ‘Me too.’ When we spoke of Jesus dying for little children, he would say, ‘Me, too.’ When we spoke of Jesus caring for His little ones day by day, he would always say, ‘Me, too.’ And when we spoke of Jesus coming to take us to Himself, he would smile and say, ‘Me, too!’

“We used to call him, our little ‘Me, too.’ And that’s how we love to remember him.”

“The Son of God who loved me and gave Himself for me.” Phil. 2:20.

Can you, dear reader, say, “for me too"?

ML-03/31/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 22:1-4

“AND THE children of Israel set forward, and pitched in the plains of Moab on this side Jordan by Jericho. And Balak the son of Zippor saw all that Israel had done to the Amorites. And Moab was sore afraid...”

What an awesome yet glorious sight it must have been to Balak, king of Moab, as he gazed down from the high places of Baal upon the vast multitudes of Israel spread out in ordered array on the plains below.

Israel were fresh from their victories over the two kings of the Amorites, the powerful Sihon and Og, the giant king of Bashan whose bedstead of iron measured 9 cubits by 4 cubits, or 131/4 feet long by 6 feet wide). The sight of them terrified Balak and his people. Long before they had heard the report of the mighty power of Him who had led Israel out of Egypt, through the Red Sea and across the wilderness, and now here they were encamped within his very land. Well might Moab quail at the sight.

“And Moab said unto the elders of Midian, Now shall this company lick up all that are round about us, as the ox licketh up the grass of the field.”

Balak both feared and hated Israel, but he had the sense that the power of Moab was no match for them. He rightly judged that the power that led them was beyond all human might and that if he ever hoped to overcome them he must invoke a force beyond the power of man.

Here in those early times we have another demonstration of that precious word in Romans 8:31: “If God be for us, who can be against us?” And how wondrous this is when we think of what a people Israel had proved themselves to be all along the wilderness way — unthankful, disobedient, rebellious, ever turning away from the God of all grace and in their hearts going back to Egypt. But God sees His people in Christ who covers all their failures, who bore the judgment of their sins on the cross. It is not that there was not iniquity in Israel, but God does not look at it; He looks at Christ and sees His people in all the value of His perfect work of redemption.

Balak felt that the only way he could defeat Israel was to call in the powers of the unseen world. He did not know God; he was just a poor heathen, and the presence of the altars of Baal only showed how completely under the power of Satan he and his people were. The idolatry of Moab was only a covering of Satan’s power, for demons are behind every heathen idol.

In Balak’s sending for Balaam to come and curse Israel we have man uniting with Satan against the people of God. But this immediately brings God Himself into the conflict. He enters the arena and the efforts of the world and Satan to destroy His people if it were possible are not only defeated and brought to naught but become the occasion for the richest display of His care for His own and of His purposes of love toward them. O what a God we have! Surely our hearts ought to be more filled with His praise and our lives spent in happy willing service for Him.

ML-03/31/1974

Little Black Sheep

A CHRISTIAN worker visiting in a hospital in Ottawa, Ontario, was told by one of the nurses that a man lay dying in a room down the hall.

She went immediately to his bedside, only to find he had drawn the sheet up over his face. Was she too late? Should she speak to him? Satan whispered. “It is very late. The visiting hours are nearly over. Come back tomorrow.”

With a little prayer she overcame the evil one’s suggestion, and kneeling by the dying man’s pillow, recited the southern paraphrase of the old gospel hymn, “The Ninety and Nine.”

“Poor little black sheep

that strayed away,

Got lost in the wind

and the rain;

And the Shepherd say,

‘Oh, hireling, go

Find My little black

sheep again!’

“But the hireling say,

‘Oh, Shepherd,

That sheep am black and bad!

But the Shepherd He smiled

like that little black sheep

Was the onliest sheep he had.

“And the Shepherd say,

‘Hireling, hasten!

For the night is dark and cold.

And that little black sheep

he’s lonesome

Out there so far from the fold.’

“But the hireling say,

‘Oh, Shepherd,

That sheep am old and gray!’

But the Shepherd He smiled like

that little black sheep

Was fair as the break of day.

“And the Shepherd went out

in the darkness,

Where the wind was cold

and bleak,

And that little black sheep,

He find it,

And laid it against his cheek.

“And the hireling say,

‘Oh Shepherd,

Don’t bring that sheep near me!’

But the Shepherd He smiled,

and He held it close...

And that little black sheep

was me!”

With the last line, the dying man slowly pushed the sheet from his eyes and looking into the lady’s face exclaimed,

“And that little black sheep

was me!”

Do you know what it means to be lost in sin — and found again by the Good Shepherd who gave His life for the sheep?

ML-04/07/1974

Napoleon and the Drummer Boy

YEARS AGO, a British army drummer boy, only fifteen years of age, went with his regiment to fight the French. One night he strolled out of the camp for a walk and was captured by an enemy patrol. He was promptly marched before the French commander, who accused him of being a spy.

“Spy! I’m no spy, sir,” replied the lad. “I am a drummer in the British service.”

Finally the young prisoner was taken before Napoleon himself, when he again affirmed that he was a British drummer.

“Bring a drum,” ordered the Emperor. “Here, lad, beat a march!”

Hope rising in his heart, the boy beat a couple of marches. But the Emperor was still unsatisfied.

“Now beat a retreat,” he commanded.

For a moment the boy hesitated, then threw down the drum. Holding his head high and looking the Emperor full in the face he answered, “A retreat, sir! I don’t know what that is. British soldiers would rather die than retreat!”

A smile lit up Napoleon’s face as he looked at the brave boy. He ordered him to be released. And the general wrote a letter to the drummer boy’s own commander, complementing him on the British courage and spirit.

Are you a soldier of Jesus Christ (2 Timothy 2:3,4), and by grace able to sing this chorus?

I have decided to follow Jesus,

No turning back, no turning back.

ML-04/07/1974

Five Fingers

“The Lord Is My Shepherd.”

— Psalm 23: 1.

Here is a text the littlest child can learn, and many of you know it already. It has just five words, and they are not long.

Suppose you hold out your left hand and place the index finger of your right hand—the one you point with—on the top of the little finger of your left saying, “The". Then move along to the next finger and say, “Lord", then the next finger “Is", next “My” next “Shepherd". When you reach your index finger of your left hand you should be on the word “My” and the thumb will stand for “Shepherd.”

A little boy who had learned this verse in this way, had to go into a hospital. His doctor said Afterward, “I wondered why he held on to his index finger before his operation, but now I understand why. He was still holding his finger and thumb when I came around and visited in the children’s ward.” We believe that dear little boy put his faith and trust in the Lord Jesus and went for his operation believing in Him as “my Shepherd.” What a wonderful difference that makes! Dear young friend, can you do the same?

“The Lord’s MY Shepherd, I’ll not want;

He makes me down to lie

In pastures green; He leadeth me

The quiet waters by.”

ML-04/07/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 22:5-14

BALAK KING of Moab sent to Balaam saying: “Behold, there is a people come out from Egypt:.. they cover the face of the earth, and they abide over against me. Come now therefore, I pray thee, curse me this people; for they are too mighty for me: peradventure I shall prevail, that we may smite them, and that I may drive them out of the land.”

Balaam was a wicked man, a false prophet who was willing to sell his services for reward. Apparently he had a reputation as a prophet for Balak also said to him, “I wot that he whom thou blessest is blessed, and he whom thou cursest is cursed.” But he was not a prophet of the Lord; rather he was a sorcerer using divination. Nevertheless the Lord did use him and made him say the very opposite to what either he or Balak wanted to say.

So the honorable elders of Moab and Midian came to Balaam with “the rewards of divination in their hands,” and they delivered the message from Balak. Balaam received them courteously, but crafty man that he was he made it appear that it was not an easy thing to secure his services. He told them to lodge with him that night, perhaps with the thought the delay might bring him more money. He made a pretense of seeking spiritual guidance, even using the name of Jehovah, for he said, “I will bring you word again, as the LORD [Jehovah] shall speak unto me.”

Jehovah was the name by which God made Himself known to Israel, but though both Balaam and Balak used His name neither of them knew Him. Balaam talked of consulting with Jehovah but in this he played the hypocrite, for he was no different than many today who flippantly talk about God and “the good Lord” yet have nothing to do with Him. Balaam was accustomed to meeting with an evil or familiar spirit. And this is a solemn thing for in these days when the light of Christianity is fading and darkness is spreading over these so-called Christian lands, more and more are turning to belief in the occult and practice of the magic arts, and in dealing with the powers of darkness. They think to contact relatives and friends who have passed into the unseen world but they are not aware that they are really in contact with demons. Dons can impersonate whoever they please and often assume to be men, angels, or even God. The trend in these things is alarming and is but an indication of the coming awful power of Satan which will fill the earth in the last days.

“And God came unto Balaam, and said, What men are these with thee?” How wonderful that God Himself should enter the scene on behalf of His people. But Balaam didn’t know it was God. He knew not but that it was the same familiar spirit he had been always used to dealing with.

God told him that night that he was not to go with the elders of Moab, nor was he to curse Israel for they were blessed. In the morning Balaam reluctantly declined the offered reward and told the men from Moab to return home, “for,” said he, “the Lord refuseth to give me leave to go with you.” He wanted the money bad enough, and would curse the people of God to get it, but he was powerless. The princes of Moab could see that he was willing, but they had to return and tell Balak, “Balaam refuseth to come with us.”

Satan can never frustrate the purposes of God to bless us, nor can he keep us out of heaven, but he can spoil our joy and ruin our testimony if we take our eyes off the Lord. May the sense of His love and goodness, and the glories that await us, so capture our hearts that the world and Satan’s allurements will have no appeal to us, and that Christ might be all in all to us while we wait for His coming.

ML-04/07/1974

Beware!

A DEAR Christian told me this story of how after a gospel meeting he had urged a young man to come to Christ, but he would not come.

The text chosen for the gospel address that night had been, “Because there is wrath, beware lest He take thee away with His stroke.” Job 36:18. The young man left unsaved.

A few months later he went to his sister’s wedding in a seaport town. Being a good swimmer he went down to the sea for a swim. After swimming a while he was seen to suddenly throw up his arms and sink. Alas, he never rose again. He left no evidence behind that he was saved, but was taken away in his sins by the stroke of God. O unsaved reader, beware!

Memory Verse: “REPENT YE THEREFORE, AND BE CONVERTED, THAT YOUR SINS MAY BE BLOTTED OUT.” Acts 3:19

ML-04/07/1974

Maskepetoon

AMONG the Indian tribes that roamed over the great Canadian northwest many years ago the Crees were perhaps the most numerous. Their most powerful chief at this time was Maskepetoon or Crooked Arm, so named because one of his arms had been badly wounded in a fearful combat with his foes.

The first missionary among them was Mr. Rundle and when the medicine men were asked to tell whence came “this little man with such strange tidings” their answer was that he came from heaven wrapped up in a piece of paper. Some of the Crees accepted the gospel message and became Christians, but Masketoon was too fond of war to quickly receive the message of peace.

Then another missionary, Mr. George McDougall came, and for months he would live with these red men as they wandered over the vast territories hunting for buffalo and other game. Camp fire services became a much-looked for event.

One evening the missionary dwelt for some length upon the words of the Saviour when He prayed for His murderers: “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do.” The missionary told them that if they expected forgiveness of sins from the Great Spirit, they must have the same mind as Christ and forgive their enemies. Maskepoon was observed to be deeply moved by the message.

The next day as they were riding over the prairies an Indian chief rode quickly to the side of Mr. McDougall and in quiet but excited tones asked him to fall back to the rear of the band. They did not wish him to witness the torture and killing of an Indian who was in the company of another smaller group of Indians they were approaching.

It seems that some months earlier Maskepetoon had sent his son across a mountain range to bring back some horses which had wintered in a sheltered valley there. He sent along another warrior as a companion and aid for his son, but the rascal, seeing an opportunity to sell the horses, did so and murdered the chief’s boy. He came back with the story that the boy had fallen over a steep cliff and was killed and that the horses had scattered. Later Maskepetoon learned the truth and now his chance for revenge was come as the culprit was among the approaching band.

Anxious to see how Maskepetoon would act after the previous night’s message, Mr. McDougall galloped to the front. The old eagle-eyed chief, tomahawk in hand, sought out the murderer and stopped directly in front of him. His voice trembling with emotion and yet keeping admirable command over himself he sternly addressed the guilty tribesman:

“You have murdered my boy,” said he, “and you deserve to die. I picked you out as his trusted companion and gave you the post of honor as his comrade, and you have betrayed my trust and cruelly killed my son. You have done me and the tribe the greatest possible injury. You have broken my heart and destroyed him who was to succeed me when I die. You deserve to die and but for what I heard from the missionary last night I would bury this tomahawk in your brains. He told us that if we expect the Great Spirit to forgive us we must forgive our enemies, even those who have done us the most wrong. As I hope the Great Spirit will forgive me so I forgive you.”

Then speaking up more sternly the old chief said, “But go immediately from my people, and let me never see your face again.” Then hastily pulling his war bonnet over his head, his forced calmness gave way, and quivering with the suppressed feelings that tore his heart, he bowed his head over his horse’s neck and gave way to an agony of tears.

Maskepetoon lived for years afterward the life of a devoted Christian. All his old warlike habits he gave up; he learned to read the Cree Bible, and so the Word of God became his comfort and joy. He spent the rest of his days doing good. How earnest and thrilling were his gospel addresses as he urged his people to give up their sinful ways and become followers of the Saviour who had so grandly saved him. Many listened to his words and like him settled down to quiet peaceful lives.

Anxious that his old enemies, the Blackfeet, should hear the story of redeeming love, Maskepetoon fearlessly and unarmed went among them, Bible in hand. A bloodthirsty, revengeful Blackfoot chief, perhaps remembering some of the fierce conflicts of former days, seized his gun, and in defiance of all rules of humanity, he coolly shot the converted chieftain down.

Thus sadly fell Maskepetoon, a wondrous trophy of the cross, and one whose conversion did a vast amount of good, showing the power of the gospel to change the hardest heart.

“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.” 1 Tim. 1:15.

Memory Verse: “I AM NOT ASHAMED OF THE GOSPEL OF CHRIST: FOR IT IS THE POWER OF GOD UNTO SALVATION TO EVERY ONE THAT BELIEVETH.” Rom. 1:16

ML-04/14/1974

Harry Takes the Medicine

HARRY was just six years old and a lively little fellow. But one day he took very sick and the doctor said he must go to the hospital.

I was visiting the children’s ward in the hospital one day and as I passed Harry’s bed he looked up at me. We had never met before and he thought I was a doctor.

“Doctor,” he called out, “what kind of medicine do you have?”

I stood silent for a moment, and then I said, “Harry, I only have heart medicine! It is medicine to make your heart happy now, and it will keep it happy forever.”

Harry smiled. “Doctor,” he said, “please give me some of your heart medicine.”

Opening my Bible I slowly read to him 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.”

“Harry,” I said, “do you know that the Lord Jesus died for you on the cross?”

“I know He died on the cross,” replied the little fellow, “but will He have me?”

Turning over to John 6:37 in my Bible I read to him; “him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.”

“That means that if you come to the Lord Jesus He will never turn you away,” I said.

“Well, doctor,” said Harry, “I know that Jesus never told a lie, so I will come to Him right now.” And he did come to the Lord Jesus who came Himself to dwell in Harry’s heart, for He had heard what Harry said and knew he meant it.

He “received Him joyfully.” Luke 19:6. Harry was happy from then on, and so is everyone who trusts in the Lord Jesus.

ML-04/14/1974

Bible Talks

Numbers 22:15-27

“AND BALAK sent yet again princes, more, and more honorable than they.” The first princes of Moab had returned to Balak sang Balaam refused to come, though it was evident he really wanted to accept the offer. Not to be defeated, however, and acting just as a man of the world would act, Balak sent more honorable princes to Balaam and promises of even greater reward. “Let nothing, I pray thee,” he said, “hinder thee from coming to me: for I will promote thee to very great honor,...; come, therefore, I pray thee, curse me this people.”

Feeling he was held in check by God while at the same time contriving to get the most for his services the crafty Balaam said to the messengers: “If Balak would give me his house full of silver and gold. I cannot go beyond the word of the LORD my God.” Nevertheless he told them to remain with him that night until he found out what more the Lord would say to him. This only shows how determined his will was and how great was his desire to get the promised reward.

It also shows that though Balaam might talk about “the Lord my God,” yet his knowledge of God was only make-believe, for there was no real faith in him. Had there been, he would have known that God is not one to change His mind. However, on this second occasion God did tell him to go with the men; He allowed him to follow his own will, yet told him he was powerless and could speak only the word that He gave him. In permitting him to go it did not make Balaam’s sin any the less for he was still ready to curse Israel to gain the reward. So in the morning he saddled his ass and went with the princes of Moab.

It is really a wonderful scene, bringing out as it does the malice of Satan and his utter defeat by God who intervenes on behalf of His people. If He had not allowed Balaam to go with the men we would never have had those wonderful prophecies of coming glories and blessing. “O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are His judgments, and His ways past finding out!” Rom. 11:33.

“And God’s anger was kindled because he went: and the angel of the Lord stood in the way for an adversary against him.” v. 22. Balaam did not see the angel with the drawn sword, but the ass did and she turned out of the way and went into the field. In his anger he beat her and tried to force her into the way again, but the angel again stood in the way, in a narrow place with a wall on either side. “And when the ass saw the angel of the Lord, she thrust herself unto the wall, and crushed Balaam’s foot,” so he beat her again.

But the angel stood in a still narrower place where there was no way to escape, and when the poor animal saw the angel with his drawn sword this time she fell down. In his anger Balaam smote her again.

We can take a warning from Balaam. Covetousness ruled his heart, even to opposing God. It was this that brought to ruin Judas who not for a house full of silver but for a mere thirty pieces sold his blessed Master. If one insists on having his own way, Satan can draw a veil over the heart, and cause even a believer to dishonor the Lord. Oh may He keep us from covetousness and from persisting in our own will.

ML-04/14/1974

The Little Bunny

WHEN I was a boy about twelve years of age I had a power mower and used to go around mowing neighbors’ lawns. One beautiful spring day I was cutting a neighbor’s grass and the mower was singing along chopping up everything in its path. As usual I was daydreaming, but suddenly I spied something ahead that looked different to the green carpet of grass all around. I stopped the mower just in time and there just inches away from the whirling blades was a little ball of gray fur — it was a tiny baby rabbit.

I picked the little thing up in my hands and the neighbor lady gave me a container to put it in until I had finished my job. Then I took the baby bunny home. We fed him from my sister’s doll bottle until he was big enough to eat carrots and rabbit pellets by himself. The once wild little rabbit became perfectly tame and we enjoyed having him as a pet.

You know, boys and girls, that little bunny was just like ourselves. He was just a helpless ball of fur when I found him, and we too must own our helplessness before the Lord Jesus Christ and come to Him as a little child, if we are to be saved. “Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.” Matt. 18:3.

We all need the Saviour, both young and old, “For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God.” Rom. 3:23.

The Lord Jesus loves you and wants to be your Saviour now! Just as I picked up that helpless little bunny and took him home, so the Lord Jesus wants to pick you up and put His loving arms around you. There you will be perfectly safe and at rest. When He was here on earth we read that “He took the children up in His arms, put His hands on them, and blessed them.”

When the little rabbit was small he could be easily tamed, but had I caught him when he was older and grown, his wild nature would have become so strong that it would be almost impossible to tame him.

Come to the Lord Jesus now while you are young, before another day passes, for the older you get the harder it will be for you to “become as a little child” and own your helpless lost condition before that loving Saviour.

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

“He shall gather the lambs with His arm, and carry them in His bosom.” Isa. 40:11.

ML-04/21/1974

All for Jesus

THE STORY is told of a young Indian who lived alone in the Selkirk Mountains. His family had all been killed by a band of white hunters and he grew up a wild man.

One winter a Christian trapper, a white man, came to the mountains to live and trap. He was very kind and patient, and gradually the wild youth learned to trust him.

Slowly the Christian told him the story of Jesus — of the love of God who gave His only Son to die for a poor Indian. The youth believed it, he was saved, and the love of God was shed abroad in his heart.

What, he then wondered, could a poor Indian give to God in return for such amazing grace? Love gave the answer.

One moonlit night on the top of a mountain peak, the young Indian dressed himself in all his best native finery. Taking his friend’s hand he knelt and prayed. Then suiting actions to his words, he said something like this:

“For Jesus....

Indian lay down blanket,

Indian lay down pipe,

Indian lay down tomahawk,

Indian lay down Indian.”

“Son, give Me thine heart.” Prov. 23:26.

“For the love of Christ constraineth us; because.... He died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto Him which died for them, and rose again.” 2 Cor. 5:14,15.

ML-04/21/1974

"Man. Does You Love Dod?"

AN OLD ragged, tramp knocked at the back door of a New Hampshire home one morning, and asked for something to eat. The mother of the home invited the poor old fellow into the kitchen to rest, and while preparing a good meal for him she learned that at one time he had had a good home and a wife and children.

Drink had driven him from one sin to another until his family deserted him. He then drifted from place to place and deeper and deeper into sin until he had no desire or ambition to do anything but to tramp and beg. He believed that no one cared what became of him and it didn’t matter much to himself either.

A small son in the home sat near the table watching the old man. Filly he walked over to the poor fellow and placed his little hand on the dirty, ragged coat sleeve and looked up at the sin-marked face.

“Man, does you love Dod?” he asked. He repeated the question seral times and getting no reply he said, “Well, man, Dod loves you.”

The tramp’s eyes filled with tears and his hand trembled but he made no answer. The little boy then went to his room and returned with ten pennies that had been given to him for candy. He placed them in the hand of the old man saying, “Man, this will buy some milk.” The poor fellow’s head went down on the table and the tears of years were shed there.

He left the house without saying a word and was unheard of for many months. At last a letter in a cramped handwriting came addressed to the child saying, “Little one, through you I have been saved from going to hell. After I left your house I walked along the country road and all I could hear, was, “Man, Dod loves you.” I fell asleep that night under a tree and dreamed of a fair, curly-haired child, with his little hand on my sleeve, saying over and over, “Man, Dod loves you.”

“That was all I could hear and see for days, until I threw myself on the ground and wept all the hardness out of my heart. I saw again the man I used to be, the cozy home I had owned, the loving wife and the dear children that sin had taken from my side. I thought of all I had sacrificed to serve the devil and of what he had made me, who had once been pure and sweet as the little child who brought that message from God to me. I cried out, ‘Oh God, if it isn’t too late, make me a child once more and let me see that little lad in heaven some day, if I never do here.’ "

God had heard the cries of the repentant old man, for Jesus died for sinners, and God delights to forgive all those who come to Him by way of the Saviour. And so the old man went on to say, “I have a job now and clothes and a place to sleep. I’m an old man and I won’t be here long, but God bless you, child, because you led an old dirty tramp back to God. I know when death comes and I reach the cold, dark river, a sweet childish voice will float out to me saying, ‘Man, Dod loves you.’ "

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

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

ML-04/21/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 22:28-35

THREE TIMES Balaam smote the ass in his anger, and then a wonderful thing happened. “The Lord opened the mouth of the ass, and she said unto Balaam, What have I done unto thee, that thou hast smitten me these three times?”

This most unheard of circumstance was in reality a solemn warning to the covetous prophet that he was flying in the face of God but his love for “the wages of unrighteousness” had blinded his eyes and his conscience was unreached even at the sound of the voice of his ass speaking. Surely he ought to have been humbled at the rebuke of a dumb creature, yet he answered her, “Because thou hast mocked me: I would there were a sword in mine hand, for now would I kill thee.”

The ass spoke again: Am I not your ass, upon which you have ridden ever since I was yours to this day; did I ever do this to you bore? And he answered, No.

The Lord then opened Balaam’s eyes and he saw the angel standing in the way with his drawn sword; and Balaam fell flat on his face bore him. Then he heard from the angel why he had encountered these obstacles in his path, that the poor ass had more wisdom than he for if she had not turned back he would have killed the prophet and saved her alive.

How wonderful that God should Himself stand in the way of a guilty sinner pursuing his own will and rushing headlong to destruction, and seek to turn him aside from such an end. “For God speaketh once, yea twice, yet man perceiveth it not.... Then He is gracious unto him, and saith, Deliver him from going down to the pit: I have found a ransom.” Job 33:14,24.

Alas, how often are God’s gracious offers lost on sinners; their hearts unchanged, they go their way bent on doing their own will. So it was with the wretched Balaam. He said to the angel, I have sinned; for I knew not that thou stoodest in the way against me.” But it was fear that brought forth this confession, not repentance toward God, for repentance comes when we see what God thinks of our sins. One who has sinned might be sorry for being found out, but a truly repentant soul would be sorry even if he were not found out, because it was a sin against God.

Had Balaam’s confession been real he would have found mercy, for God has declared: “He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.” Prov. 28:13. But not being real he was allowed to pursue his own will, the willing servant of Satan.

Balaam said, “If it displease thee, I will get me back again,” but the angel told him to go with the men, and he did go with them. God allowed him to fill up the measure of his wickedness, but at the same time He used him to accomplish His will, to declare those marvelous counsels of grace and glory, all centering in Christ and embracing His beloved people.

ML-04/21/1974

Jesus Loves Me

DR. CHAMBERLAIN, who for many years worked for the Lord among the Hindus, told this story about “Jesus Loves Me", probably the best-known children’s song in the world.

“Many years ago I translated into Telugu the children’s hymn “Jesus Loves Me” and taught it to the children of our day school. Scarcely a week later, as I was going through the narrow streets of the native town, I heard singing down a side street. I stopped to look and listen. There was a little Hindu boy, singing away at the top of his voice, a group of native men and women standing around him:

“Jesus loves me! this I know,

For the Bible tells me so...

Yes, Jesus loves me!

The Bible tells me so!”

As he completed the verse, someone asked: “Sonny, where did you learn that song?”

“Over at the missionary school", was his answer.

“Who is that Jesus, and what is the Bible?”

“Oh! the Bible is the Book from God, they say, to teach us how to get to heaven, and Jesus is the name of the divine Redeemer that came into the world to save us from our sins; that is what the missionaries say!

" ‘Well, the song is a nice one.

Come, sing us some more!’ And so the little boy went on singing to these natives about Jesus and His love.”

The sweetest song — the sweetest story ever told, is that of Jesus and His love. Sweeter still it is for one to know Him as his very own Saviour.

We can only hope that the little singer and preacher, and his hearers, learned to truly trust Jesus for themselves.

Have you?

Memory Verse: “HIM THAT COMETH TO ME I WILL IN NO WISE CAST OUT.” John 6:37

ML-04/28/1974

Jewels

CORNELIA, a noble Roman matron was asked by visiting friends to show them her jewels. But instead of displaying a collection of dazzling gems she presented to them her three sons, saying.

“These are my jewels.”

Before the Lord Jesus left heaven to come into the world He said, “My delights were with the sons of men.” Prov. 8:31.

When He brings all “His loved and His own” to heaven, He will exclaim: “Behold I and the children which God hath given me.” Heb. 2:13.

Little children, little children,

Who love their Redeemer,

Are His jewels, precious jewels,

His loved and His own.

Like the stars of the morning,

His bright crown adorning,

They shall shine in His beauty

Bright gems for His crown.

ML-04/28/1974

"Lord, Open My Eyes"

A LITTLE girl of nine years old, told a lady that she always prayed, “Lord, open Thou mine eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of Thy law,” before reading her Scripture portion. “But, dear, do you always understand it when you have read it?” “Not always.” “And what do you do then?” “Oh, I say, Please, Lord, open my eyes a little wider.”

And that is what we all should pray, that the eyes of our understanding might be enlightened (Eph. 1:18) a little more each day.

ML-04/28/1974

"Out of the Miry Clay"

SPRING had come to the midwest where a little boy named Eric lived. April rains had changed the frozen ground into mud. It was that black mud they call prairie gumbo, perhaps the stickiest mud in the world.

The roads were covered with it. The cars were covered with it. It stuck to everything and everybody that touched it. The only safe path for a small boy was on the narrow sidewalk made of boards.

Along this board-walk trotted Eric wearing new high rubber boots. But how tempting that sea of soft mud looked! What fun to walk in it with new high rubbers!

He must try it! Leaving the boards he struck out into the gumbo. But almost his first steps told him he had made a mistake. Both feet soon sank into the mud so that he could not walk. He raised his right foot but his boot remained in the mud. He raised his left foot and that boot too, stayed in the mire. In his sock feet he tried to return to the board walk, but found he could not move an inch. He was hopelessly stuck. And as he sank deeper into the gumbo he began to cry.

But unknown to Eric, someone had been watching the whole performance from above. It was a lineman high up on a telephone pole. Quickly his spiked heels bit into the wooden pole as he came down to the rescue.

The lineman strode into the mud and with powerful arms carefully lifted Eric “out of the miry clay.” Soon he was safely on the solid boards again, boots and all—thanks to his strong friend, the telephone man!

Eric is now a man. When he tells how he was saved from the black mud by the telephone man, he also tells how he was saved from his black sins by the Man in the Glory — the Lord Jesus Christ.

Because Jesus for our sakes descended into the horrible pit, into the miry clay of sin into which we all had sunk — because He suffered on the cross, the Just for the unjust to bring us to God — “Him hath God exalted with His right hand to be a Prince and a Saviour.” (Acts 5:31).

Has He saved you? “Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Acts 2:21. Call on Him now.

How sweet to know Him as my Saviour and sing with Him: “He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings. And he hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God.” Psalm 40:2,3.

ML-04/28/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 22:36-23:9

FORTY years earlier at the Red Sea the Lord had “triumphed gloriously” on behalf of His people, when they were about to begin their wilderness journey. Yet no less glorious were the triumphs of His grace in these magnificent prophecies Balaam was made to utter when that journey was nearing its end. With what wonderful patience God had suffered “their manners in the wilderness” throughout those long years, for neither man nor Satan can change His purposes of love toward His own.

It took a great deal of preparation by God before Balaam became the instrument to pronounce good concerning Israel, but finally the prophet arrived at the border of Arnon where he met Balak, king of Moab, who escorted him to “the high places of Baal.” From these heights he could look down and view no doubt with astonished eyes the thousands of Israel spread out on the plains below.

Balaam would now make a show of seeking some supernatural power and ordered Balak to build seven altars and prepare seven oxen and seven rams. It seems that the idolatrous nations had borrowed from Israel not only the name Jehovah but also the number seven. After offering sacrifices on each altar Balaam told Balak to stand by his burnt offering while he went to a high place. “Peradventure the LORD [Jehovah] will come to meet me,” he said, “and whatsoever He showeth me I will tell thee.” All this had the appearance of seeking God but the whole thing was really a sham, a counterfeit of Satan, commonly practiced by those who deal in the occult.

But God did meet Balaam; and he said to Him, “I have prepared seven altars, and I have offered upon every altar a bullock and a ram.” How offensive to God for wicked man to attempt to propitiate Him in all His holiness and majesty, a work which only Christ by His death could do. God ordered Balaam to return to Balak and told him what to say.

“And he took up his parable, and said, Balak... hath brought me from Aram saying, Come, curse me Jacob, and come, defy Israel.” Balaam would like to have cursed Israel and gain the promised reward, but he is forced to say, “How shall I curse, whom God hath not cursed?” Any curse of his would be powerless if God had not cursed them. For us how precious the word: “If God be for us, who can be against us.... Who shall lay anything to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth. Who is he that condemneth?” Rom. 8:31-34. The whole world might be against the child of God, but what matters it if God be for him?

“From the top of the rocks I see him, and from the hills I behold him.” From the heights of glory in which He dwells God looks down on His people and sees them all in Christ. Balaam is forced to see them from above also. May the Lord help each of us to see our fellow-Christians as He sees them — “from the top of the rocks.” What a difference this would make if we saw our brethren as the beloved of God. How much kinder and more loving we would be toward one another!

“Lo, the people shall dwell alone, and shall not be reckoned among the nations.” God intended that Israel should be a separated people. Well had it been for them if they had maintained that separation unto the Lord, but when they mingled with the nations around they fell from their glory and lost their place of honor and power. As Christians we ought to be a separated people — separated unto Christ who was rejected on earth but received in heaven. So may we seek grace, dear young Christian, to walk apart from this world, its societies, its organizations, its pleasures and its religion — in it but not of it. The Lord help us to live for Him and witness of His love and truth to others, while waiting for His coming to take us to our heavenly Home.

ML-04/28/1974

Lost

A LITTLE boy named Roddie loved to chase butterflies. He lived on a ranch, and his home was surrounded by big fields. The back door opened into a large fenced garden and here Roddie used to play. At the end of the garden was a gate. Roddie had often been told never to go out of that gate. Now one summer day while Roddie played in the garden a beautiful butterfly appeared among the flowers. In a flash he was after it and a merry game of tag began.

But no one had told the butterfly not to go past the gate, and soon the gorgeous visitor floated over the fence into the big field beyond.

Forgetting his mother’s warnings, Roddie quickly unlatched the gate and dashed after the butterfly. Far into the big field he followed until at last the butterfly fluttered high out of sight and the chase ended.

After playing about in the field awhile, Roddie decided to return home. But there was no path, and he could not see the house for the trees. Without knowing it, he wandered farther and farther away.

Poor little fellow, he was lost!

Meanwhile, back at the house, dinnertime came and mother called for Roddie. When there was no answer and Roddie could not be found, there was soon a great stir at the ranch. His mother called the neighbors. His father called the sheriff. Soon everybody seemed to know that Roddie was lost. By sunset a great search had begun.

Not till far into the night when the sheriff was scouring the back roads in his Jeep, was Roddie found. Beside a rocky stretch of land, just above a canyon, the sheriff had stopped. Mounted on his Jeep was a big spotlight. Slowly he swept the dark and dangerous area with its powerful beam.

Suddenly the brilliant light revealed the figure of a little boy sitting on a big stone, right on the edge of the canyon. There was Roddie! — safe and sound.

Soon the big, kind sheriff was able to place the tired little boy safely in his waiting mother’s arms once more. And all the community rejoiced over the good news that Roddie was found.

Later, when asked if he was not afraid to be out in the dark all alone, Roddie replied, “No, I was not afraid, I knew my

Daddy would come for me.”

Although he did not know it at the time, the truth was, he was lost.

But Roddie is not the only one who has gone astray and got lost, and does not know it. “All we, like sheep, have gone astray; we have turned everyone to his own way,” the Bible tells us in Isaiah 53:6. For this very reason the Lord Jesus, the loving Saviour, came from heaven “to seek and to save that which was lost.” (Luke 19:10).

Here is a little chorus. Can you sing it as if it were true of you? Has Jesus saved you?

I was lost but Jesus saved me,

Found the lamb that ran away,

Now because He loves me so

He will never let me go

Till I’m safely home in heaven,

Oh, happy day!

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

ML-05/05/1974

Pedro

PEDRO was a little Indian boy, I just eight years old, who lived in Mexico. His father was poor but he feared the Lord and loved His name. One day in the village where they lived, a procession was going down the street.

“Kneel down, child,” a man shouted to Pedro. “Kneel down, I tell you. Don’t you see that God is passing by?”

“No,” replied Pedro, “that is not God. God is not made of wood; He is a Spirit, and He tells us that we must worship Him in spirit and in truth.”

After the procession passed by, the same man came to Pedro and said, “Who taught you such things?”

“God’s Word, the Bible,” said Pedro.

“Well, I would like to read that,” said the man.

“I will give you a book,” said Pedro. “Come here next week and I will bring it with me.”

Next week Pedro took with him some gospels that a missionary had left at his father’s house some time before. Several men were waiting for him, and each of them took a gospel. They had a long talk with the little boy. The result was that they came regularly from that time on to meetings that were held at his father’s house.

This is the last glimpse we have of little Pedro, and it is a happy picture. We are sure we shall see him and his father in heaven, and perhaps some of those dear men who came to hear about the true God. Will you be there, dear reader?

“For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth.” Rom. 1:16.

ML-05/05/1974

"I Am the Door"

IN A country town some boys would come together and have a prayer meeting. A little girl named Hazel was passing by and heard them singing. She stopped to listen and thinking it was just an ordinary prayer meeting, open to all, she tried to get in. Reaching up her hand she pulled the latch, but the door would not open; it was fastened inside.

As she turned away, Hazel thought, “What if this were the door of heaven, and I was left outside?”

The little girl went home, but not to sleep. Day after day she became more troubled at the thought of being shut outside the door of heaven.

One day she was reading John’s Gospel, Chapter 10, and came to the words where the Lord Jesus says: “I am the door; by Me if any man enter in he shall be saved.” Hazel paused and reread the verse again and again. Then by faith she entered in and was joyfully saved. And so may you, dear reader, by receiving the Lord Jesus as your Saviour.

I am the Door, the words are but four,

Millions are in, and there’s room for more.

The door’s open wide, come right inside,

And thou shalt be saved.

ML-05/05/1974

Bible Talks

Numbers 23:10-21

BALAAM went on with his parable, and said, “Who can count the dust of Jacob, and the number of the fourth part of Israel?” Then he adds, “Let me die the death of the righteous, and let my last end be like his!”

Alas, for the poor wretched prophet who loved the wages of unrighteousness; for he died as he lived. Later, when the victorious armies of Israel warred against the Midianites Balaam was slain along with them. For the most part men die as they have lived. If one would die the death of the righteous then let him live the life of the righteous.

Balak was greatly vexed at Balaam. Not only had the prophet blessed Israel but he himself had even uttered the wish that he might share their blessing at the end. “I took thee to curse mine enemies,” he said, “and, behold, thou Nast blest them altogether.... Come, I pray thee, with me unto another place.”

In Balak we see how lost was the knowledge of God among the nations. He thought God was like himself, or just another god like his own. To his darkened mind God was but a god of one particular people; He might be powerful in one place but in another place or circumstance another god might be more powerful than He. We find this in the history of the kings of Israel for on one occasion the Syrians said the God of Israel was god of the hills but not of the valleys.

How blest we are who know Him as the only true God, the Lord of heaven and earth, “the Creator who is blessed forever,” who has revealed Himself to faith in the Person of His beloved Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, “to whom be glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.”

Balak would take Balaam to another point where he would not see all Israel, but just a part of them, and then he would curse them from there. As if that would make any difference. For God is not a man that He should lie, or the Son of man that He should repent. He will make good what He has spoken. Balaam had received commandment to bless; “and He hath blessed; and I cannot reverse it.”

Evidently Balaam would have liked to reverse the decree of God, but he could not. Neither man nor all the powers of hell could change God’s purpose to bless Israel, and nothing can frustrate His purposes of blessing toward His people now. “For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus.” Rom. 8:38,39.

Balak then brought Balaam to the top of Pisgah. Again he offered sacrifices and went through his ritual, and again the Lord met him and told him what to say. Each time he rises higher and higher in expressing the fullness of God’s thoughts of blessing toward His people.

“He hath not beheld iniquity in Jacob, neither hath He seen perverseness in Israel.” How could this be? The answer is found only in Christ. In those times God was looking forward to the work of Christ and so He could act in grace toward those who lived in faith. Now God sees the believer as cleansed by the blood of Christ, “holy and without blame before Him in love.” (Eph. 1:4.)

ML-05/05/1974

Saved to Serve

IN AFRICA one night a lion crept into a native’s hut and carried off a little girl. Her screams brought her parents running after the lion, shouting and making a great noise. After carrying her for some distance the lion dropped the child and ran off.

Dreadfully wounded by the lion’s great sharp teeth, her parents carried her back to the hut. But as they were sure that she would die, the next day they decided it was not worthwhile to have any more trouble with her.

So they gave her the choice, either to be buried alive at once, or to be carried into the jungle and left there. That was the native custom in that dark land in those dark days. How true it is as the Bible says, that “the dark places of the earth are full of the habitations of cruelty"! Psalm 74:20.

The little girl chose to be put in the jungle. Here she was left all alone, with only a little rice and water.

As she lay there, the poor child remembered that there was a missionary station not far off, and decided to try to crawl there. But as she crept painfully along, God sent the missionary himself that way.

He picked her up and carried her home where he and his wife looked after her. Under their tender care her wounds healed. She got well. She attended the mission school. Here she learned of Jesus and His great love for children and she was saved by simple faith in Him.

Then she learned to read and write, and Afterward became a teacher in the school. Finally she gave her whole life to helping spread the gospel among her own countrymen.

Like the man of Gadara in the Bible, she returned to her own house to show what great things God had done for her (Luke 8:39). How wonderful are the ways of God!

“Call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me.” Psalm 50:15.

“Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Rom. 10: 13.

ML-05/12/1974

A Verse Remembered

FOLLOWING a World War 2 mission, during which he was terribly wounded, a youthful member of Britain’s Royal Air Force was brought into the hospital to die.

Turning to the man in the next bed, he inquired solemnly, “Do you know anything about religion?”

“Sorry, chum, I don’t,” was the reply, “but there’s a lady comes here every Thursday giving out tracts. She will be able to tell you.”

“I might be dead then,” returned the airman mournfully.

“Come to think of it,” said the other, “away back when I was a little boy, our Sunday school teacher taught me this Bible verse: “Jesus said, Suffer the children to come unto Me.” (Luke 18:16).

“Could I come in on that?” exclaimed the wounded man.

“You can try,” said the other encouragingly.

The dying man pulled the sheet up over his face and began to pray, closing with these words, “Suffer... the children... to come.”

The sheet did not come down. With these words of the Son of God on his lips he died.

Later, the chaplain having recounted the incident at an officer’s mess, one of the officers inquired of him privately, “Tell me, padre, do you think that young fellow had a chance?”

“No", replied the chaplain, “he did not have a chance; he had a certainty. He came by faith to the One who has said, “Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” (John 6:37). The Lord Jesus said, “Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the Kingdom of God as a little child shall in no wise enter therein.” (Luke 18:17).

ML-05/12/1974

"That Means Me!"

IT WAS A children’s meeting in a big city. Three hundred poor, ragged boys and girls sat listening to the gospel. At the close of his message the speaker held up a piece of silver money for all to see. He then put the silver coin under a book on the table and said, “Whosoever believeth, let him come and take it!”

He waited. They were all “whosoevers.” But the only “whosoever believeth” was one timid little boy. He came up, took the money and said, “Thank you, sir.”

“What is your name?” asked the speaker.

“Cecil.”

“I did not say that Cecil could have the money.”

“No sir,” said the half-frightened boy, “but you did say ‘whosoever’ — and that means me!”

“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.

“He that believeth on the Son,” saith He, “Hath everlasting life.”

ML-05/12/1974

Springtime

Who is not glad when Springtime comes again,

With sunny skies, and bringing in her train

Sweet flowers — the snowdrop, crocus, daffodil,

With buttercups and daisies, loved so well

By children of all ages and degrees,

At home, or far away beyond the seas.

Yes, Spring has come again, and another term for our Bible Searchers has drawn to a close. How thankful we are to the Lord for all who have “searched the Scriptures” and sent in their Answers faithfully each month. May the Lord richly bless His Word to you, and to many who read their Bibles privately at home or in company with others who love His name. We hope you will all continue and that others will join us as we begin another year.

We are sorry for some delays in getting the Bible Searcher sheets to you of late, but trust you will be receiving them regularly from now on. However, do continue to send in your completed forms as quickly as possible, even if they are late, and we will reward you according to the months you have answered. Please note that no rewards are mailed to any who answer less than three times during the year.

We still receive Searcher sheets without name or address and have no way of telling who sent them in. Please be sure to fill in the information blank on the front page before mailing your Answer sheet.

Names of those who answered during the past year will be published early in June and rewards will be mailed at the same time, the Lord willing.

In closing we would encourage you to read your Bible every day. “Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words..., and keep those things which are written therein.” Rev. 1:3.

Memory Verse: “BEHOLD, I COME QUICKLY; AND MY REWARD IS WITH ME, TO GIVE EVERY MAN ACCORDING AS HIS WORK SHALL BE.” Rev. 22:12.

ML-05/12/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 23:22,24

WHAT A wonderful conflict is taking place here on Mount Pisgah! There is the power of God on the one hand and the power of evil on the other. God triumphs gloriously over the malice and power of Satan.

Balaam has begun to see the folly of any further attempt to curse the people of God. He says: “Surely there is no enchantment against Jacob, neither is there any divination against Israel: according to this time it shall be said of Jacob and Israel, What hath God wrought?”

God had wrought for Israel’s blessing, and how strange that they should forsake Him and seek after other gods. Yet is it not stranger still that we whom He has redeemed by the precious blood of His own Son, and brought into such favor, should forget Him and these poor hearts of ours seek to find satisfaction in the world’s pleasures?

“Behold, the people shall rise up as a great lion, and lift himself up as a young lion: he shall not lie down until he eat of the prey, and drink the blood of the slain.” Earlier he had spoken of their numbers; “Who can count the dust of Jacob?” Now he speaks of their strength when the shout of a King is among them (v. 21). The Lord Himself will be their strength in that day. The great lion speaks of majesty and might, and the young lion swiftness in power. What terrible judgment will fall on their enemies! Their victory will be complete; the lion will not lie down until he eat of the prey and drink the blood of the slain. Israel’s enemies will be God’s enemies, to be destroyed or subdued in invincible power.

We read in Isaiah 11: “They shall fly upon the shoulders of the Philistines toward the west; they shall spoil them of the east together: they shall lay their hand upon Edom and Moab; and the children of Ammon shall obey them.”

When, because of the perfect work of Christ upon the cross the Lord takes away the sin of His people, and the King Himself shall be among them, what joyous songs of praise unto the Lord they shall sing in that day! “Sing, O daughter of Zion, shout, O Israel, be glad and rejoice with all the heart, O daughter of Jerusalem. Jehovah hath taken away thy judgments, He hath cast out thine enemy; the king of Israel even Jehovah is in the midst of thee; thou shalt not see evil any more.” Zeph. 3:14,15.

What God will do for Israel in that day He has done for unworthy sinners even now, only much more. Those who trust His beloved Son for their salvation now will have their portion with Christ in brightest heavenly glory. Even now we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us; God sees us “in Christ,” — “holy and without blame before Him in love,” in spite of all our failures, and that not because of anything that we have done, but in virtue of what Christ has done for us upon the cross. And when we are called home and enter those bright courts above with our Saviour, surely the expression of our hearts will be, “What hath God wrought?”

ML-05/12/1974

How the Bibles Were Saved

ON THE EDGE of the forest in Hanover, Germany, many years ago there lived two God-fearing farmers, named Drewes and Hinz. Grandpa Hinz was nearly 80 years of age.

A terrible war was raging in Germany at that time causing much grief and sorrow. However, the Christians persevered in faith, enduring the trial because they loved the Lord. The soldiers plundered and robbed them of their belongings, but they did not complain. Each family had a prize possession — a large Bible. This precious volume is to be valued above all others, as it is God’s voice at all times. The looting soldiers had sought to destroy all the sacred books but they missed the Bibles and these proved to be a special comfort at that time.

In the evening after supper the family would gather around the crackling fire, and the father would read a portion of Scripture commenting in simple and loving words. He would give thanks for the only begotten Son who died for sinners, and then the whole family sang a hymn together. After this stories from family adventures would be the subject of lively conversation, so the delighted children especially looked forward to this time of the day. The fire =place became a sacred spot or family altar. While mother sat at her spinning wheel, father sat in a large, upholstered chair which had a secret compartment underneath the seat. It was the hiding place of the large family Bible. The troops sought to destroy all sacred books.

One evening as father Drewes and the family sat around the fire suddenly Grandpa Hinz knocked at the door and exclaimed excitingly, “Quick neighbor! loose the cattle and let us flee. The troops are on the way!”

All rose up in fear, quickly a few clothes and some food were gathered together and then everyone hastened toward the nearby forest.

Grandpa Hinz brought up the rear, and as soon as all had disappeared into the woods, he climbed a tree to watch. Soon a heavy column of smoke showed that all their buildings were in flames.

When the soldiers had left Grana Hinz came down from the tree and all bowed their knees and praised God for sparing their lives and their cattle. Yet there were no complaints: “The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away.” They were strengthened because of Him who never forsakes His own.

They were setting about to build a cabin when some noticed tears rolling down Mr. Drewes cheeks. “Dear ones,” he remarked, with touching voice, “where is our treasure, the Bible? How sad that we had forgotten it. In our haste we thought only of food and clothes. Perhaps it went up in the flames.”

A deep silence followed for everyone felt the great loss of their precious Books. Then Grandpa Hinz drew near and broke the silence saying, “Be comforted, even though our precious Books are gone. Our Lord and Saviour abides the same; we have Him in our hearts, and have His Word in our memories. Each morning and evening I will recite you a chapter until the Lord be pleased to give us a Bible. We shall begin at once.”

Without waiting for an answer he began in a clear plain voice: “The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: He leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me; Thy rod and Thy staff they comfort me.”

On he went through the complete psalm in a comforting voice. Then raising his voice confidently he repeated: “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” 2 Tim. 1:7.

“For you have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba Father.” Romans 8:15.

As he finished all seemed to be conscious of an inward peace and joy, and in a short time all were sound asleep amid the aroma of the evergreens.

The next morning after a simple breakfast Grandpa repeated another psalm and a chapter from the New Testament. He then closed with a few words of exhortation and encouragement. His prayer made a profound impression on all and hearts were moved by the Spirit’s presence. After this it was decided that Mr. Drewes and three others would go and check the remains of their homes.

The men carefully approached the charred walls and smoldering ruins. All was deathly still except the birds who sang as usual. As they drew near they heard groans. They came upon two wounded soldiers and, lo and behold, they were sitting in their beloved upholstered chairs. The enemy had left these wounded ones behind. The poor soldiers expected nothing but death as a revenge, however our friends treated them with utmost kindness. They were amazed to be cared for as friends rather than enemies. Carefully they were carried into the forest to the great amazement of the women and children.

When the secret compartments in the chairs were opened the beloved Bibles were found to be undamaged. What joy and rejoicing there was!

They decided to move the wound men to a nearby farm but they pleaded to be allowed to remain with their benefactors as they had not long to live. Grandpa Hinz took a special interest in them and made them aware of their soul’s need. He showed them the way of salvation and soon they were rejoicing in the knowledge that their sins were forgiven. They were “brands plucked from the burning.” Once they had been as “brute beasts,” now they were washed clean in the most precious blood of Christ. There was great joy in that forest.

As the dying soldiers saw their end approaching for the last time they expressed their gratitude, above all for having been led to the Saviour. Then they gave instructions as to how their uniforms were to be opened after their death. After the funeral according to their directions, several gold pieces were found in their tunics — sufficient to rebuild the homes which were destroyed. Over the soldiers’ graves for many years could be seen this inscription: “Here rests Friedrich Wenzeslaus a Bohemian, and Jurischliz Lansitz. Without their knowledge they saved two Bibles from the flames, and through them found the gift of eternal life.”

Translated from the German

ML-05/19/1974

"I Want Him Tonight!"

A LITTLE girl went with her mother to a hall where the gospel was preached. She listened quietly, but it seemed to her as if the preacher spoke only to the grown-up people.

On the way home she asked her mother, “Is Jesus a Saviour for a little girl nine years old?”

“Yes, indeed He is,” said her mother. He is a Saviour for the youngest who trust Him, as well as for the oldest. But why do you ask?”

“Because I want Him for my own Saviour, and I want Him tonight.”

There and then she opened the door of her young heart and let the Saviour in.

The Lord Jesus says to you: “Bold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in....” Rev. 3:20.

Memory Verse: “THEY THAT WERE READY WENT IN WITH HIM... AND THE DOOR WAS SHUT.” Matt. 25:10.

ML-05/19/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 23:25-24:5

EVEN THE miserable king Balak to see how hopeless it was to strive against God, so he says to Balaam, “Neither curse them at all, nor bless them at all.” Perhaps if he could meet them on equal terms he might be able to overcome them. But when God takes up His people’s cause, He does not merely defend them, but has positive blessing in view for them as well.

Men can be quite religious when it suits them best; they will turn “religion” on and off at will. In a later day another king, Saul, far from God, called for the ark of God, and when after talking to the priest nothing availed he told the priest to withdraw his hand. But God was not to be turned off here. The enemy had made Him to enter the scene to speak on behalf of His people and Balak must hear fuller and more marvelous pronouncements of blessing in store for them.

The foolish king would have Balaam try once more and took him to another point saying, “peradventure it will please God that thou mayest curse me them from thence.” Though Balaam could see the folly of seeking enchantments to bring this to pass, still he yields to Balak. Well had it been for him if he had yielded to the Lord and humbly sought a refuge in Him instead; but we see how unbroken though powerless was his will.

“And when Balaam saw that it pleased the Lord to bless Israel, he went not as at other times, to seek for enchantments, but he set his face toward the wilderness.” This shows that all his religious display of seeking God’s guidance was faked; the enchantments that he had sought “at other times” were really of Satan.

When Balaam saw Israel abiding in their tents it says, “the Spirit of the Lord came upon him.” We hear no more of his familiar spirit, but like his dumb ass, he is made to open his mouth and speak “the words of God.”

“Balaam... the man whose eyes are open hath said:... which heard the words of God, which saw the vision of the Almighty.” What a solemn thing for such a man to have heard “the words of God,” to have seen “the vision of the Almighty,” and yet remain unmoved, the heart closed to God. How like one who has sat under the gospel, perhaps has had the blessed news on his lips, and yet the heart unchanged and closed to the love that comes with such a glorious message. Surely such a one is more guilty than if his eyes had never been opened.

“How goodly are thy tents, O Jacob, and thy tabernacles, O Israel.” It must have been a wonderful sight Balaam looked down upon — the goodly tents of Jacob in their order and beauty, with the cloud of Jehovah’s presence in their midst such a sight as he had never witnessed before.

But he who “saw the vision of the Almighty” had his eyes opened to behold far more wondrous order and beauty as to surpass in magnificence anything this earth has ever seen. Balaam had a glimpse of the coming day when Christ whose right it is to reign will come in power and glory and His people shall dwell at rest in their own land.

How blest are we who look on to those brighter heavenly glories which Christ our Saviour will share eternally with all His own at His coming. What joy it gives

To look beyond the long dark night

And hail the coming day,

When Thou to all Thy saints in light

Thy glories wilt display.

ML-05/19/1974

The Happy Land: A True Story

At a palace of pleasure,

A few years ago,

Where rich folks resorted,

And passed to and fro,

A skeptic and others

Were dining at ease,

While waiters around them

Sought humbly to please;

When, suddenly rising

In richness and grace,

Came a pure childish voice,

That filled all the place.

The diners were startled,

From whence came the sound?

At the door stood a child,

Bare feet on the ground.

Her clothes were all ragged,

Her figure forlorn,

A sight in our city

To make angels mourn,

But, oh, on her face such

A flush, sweet and grand,

As sweetly she sang

Of the bright, happy land.

“There is a happy land, Far, far away,

Where saints in glory stand,

Bright, bright as day.

Oh, how they sweetly sing,

Worthy is the Saviour King!

Loud let His praises ring;

Praise, praise for aye.”

The waiter was angry;

He rushed to the door.

“Be off, you young urchin,

Don’t come any more!”

He turned back disgusted,

No thought of that song;

No thought of the singer

As he hurried along.

“How dare you act harshly?”

The skeptic cried out,

“What harm was she doing?”

He said with a shout,

“Recall her at once, sir,

And bring her to me;

That singing was lovely,

The child I would see.”

They brought the child to him,

She sang the sweet strain,

“There is a happy land,”

To him once again.

The guests all around them

Were thrilled with delight;

The singing was lovely,

The singer a sight!

“My dear,” said the skeptic,

“Your voice is divine,

But the theme of your song

Is no faith of mine.

There’s no life beyond death,

No land bright and fair.”

“Why, sir,” said the singer,

“My mother is there!”

“Your mother? Oh, well, child,

’Tis merely a dream;

None other is with her,

Or heaven has seen.”

“Why, sir, you’re mistaken;

In that happy land,

My Saviour is with them!

It’s beautiful, grand.”

“And father and I, sir,

Will soon join the throng,

To sing with the ransomed,

To join in their song.

No sorrow, nor crying,

No hunger, nor pain,

But ever with Jesus;

To praise His blest Name!”

The skeptic, still smiling,

Said, “Where is your home?”

“With Father, at Hoxton;

We live all alone;

But father is sick,

He can’t leave his bed,

And I earn our living,

By singing,” she said.

“Poor child! Take me with you;

Your father I’ll see;

Now, don’t be afraid,

But come home with me.”

They came to the attic

Where, dying, was laid

The father, kept cheerful

By that little maid.

The skeptic (a good man),

Was pricked to the heart;

At the sight of their love

The tear drops would start.

He paid for the father

To have every care,

And a home for the child,

That singer so fair.

The father sank lower,

Alas! he soon died;

For T. B. had claimed him,

Would not be denied.

The skeptic, still loving

That sweet little maid,

Prepared for her future,

While she for him prayed.

But, alas! the exposure

Of her little form,

While singing for father,

Her garments all torn

Its fatal seeds sowed

In her feeble frame,

And soon that young singer

Would be but a name.

The skeptic was troubled,

He sent her to stay

At a good nursing home;

But she faded away.

And there many moments

He spent by her side.

Alas! the sweet singer

Sank lower, and died.

But, as she lay dying,

She said, “Shall I sing

My own little song, that

To you did me bring?”

“Oh, yes!” he exclaimed,

As he took her hand.

Then she sang once again

Of that happy land.

The voice was so feeble,

But oh, it was grand;

So sure to that maiden,

Her place in that land.

His eyes filled with tears,

No words could he speak,

No feeling of comfort

From it could he seek.

She raised her frail form,

She gazed in his face,

And then, with a smile of

Ineffable grace,

Said, “Mother has gone there,

And Jesus’s there too,

And I’m going to them,

But what will you do?

Won’t you come to Jesus?

To that happy land?

Won’t you love and serve Him

With that happy band?”

Then feebly she sang,

Her heart in the song,

Increasing in fervour,

As she went along:

“Come to that happy land,

Come, come away;

Why will you doubting stand?

Why still delay?

Oh! we shall happy be,

When from sin and sorrow free,

Lord, we shall live with Thee,

Blest, blest for aye.”

The singer had finished

(Her life scarce begun);

She lay down, ceased breathing;

Her work, it was done.

But, oh, the sweet gesture

Of love, e’er life fled!

The strong man was humbled,

The singer was dead.

He pleaded for mercy,

To One, who in love,

To save wretched sinners,

Came down from above,

And was he rejected?

Oh! infinite grace!

The sinner was pardoned,

In Christ he found peace.

She was laid in the grave,

Her body at rest;

Her soul with her loved ones,

And Him she loved best.

The strong man sought guidance

In prayer at the throne,

To serve best her Saviour

He claimed as his own.

He lived to declare Him,

Whom long he disowned;

The blessed Lord Jesus

His heart had enthroned.

He told oft how Jesus

Came down from the sky,

In tenderest pity,

To suffer and die.

He told how poor sinners

Before Him can stand,

In perfect acceptance,

In that happy land;

Redeemed by His blood,

On that happy shore,

Their sins and iniquities

Remembered no more.

ML-05/26/1974

A Great Musician

FELIX MENDELSSOHN was one of the world’s greatest musicians. When he heard that there was a very wonderful organ in the old cathedral of Frieburg he longed to be able to play on it.

So one day he traveled to the little town and went into the building where the organ was. Having found the old man who was in charge, he asked permission to play the organ for a little while. But the old man shook his head and said, “No! No stranger is ever allowed to play on that wonderful organ.”

But Mendelssohn talked so long and so lovingly about the organ, and begged so hard to be allowed to play on it for just a little while, that at last the caretaker gave his consent.

The stranger began to play and the old man listened. Soon the great building was overflowing with the grandest melody it had ever heard. It rolled out of the doors and windows into the town and fields beyond. Never before had the organ played such glorious music.

As the playing stopped the old man with eyes full of tears laid his hands on the stranger’s shoulder and exclaimed, “Wonderful man! Who are you?”

When he heard the name Mendelssohn, the old man drew back and cried, “And I refused to let you play my organ!”

May this story remind us that a heavenly Stranger waits at the heart’s door, longing to enter. His name is Jesus. He is “the chiefest among ten thousand” (Song of Sol. 5:10). He is able to fill your hearts with such joy and gladness as could never be known before and that forever. Your only regret will be that you did not let Him in sooner.

“Son, give Me thine heart.” Prov. 23:26.

Can you say, “He hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God”? Psalm 40:3.

ML-05/26/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 24:6-10

THESE LAST two prophecies of Balaam are the most wonderful of all. They rise higher and higher in grandeur until Israel’s cup of blessing fairly overflows.

“As the valleys are they spread forth, as gardens by the river’s side, as the trees of lignaloes which the Lord hath planted, and as cedar trees beside the waters.”

The lignaloes is a small shrub with a lovely fragrance and tells of the Lord’s delight in His people when they are humbled before Him and their offerings, all speaking of Christ, will go up to Him as a sweet savor. “Which the Lord hath planted.” God has provided for His praise and the praise of His beloved Son in the millennial scene; Jerusalem shall be “a praise in the earth” (Isa. 62:7). The Psalms especially are filled with the notes of praise to God from His redeemed people in that coming day.

“And as cedar trees beside the waters.” The cedars speak of greatness and dignity, thus Israel’s superiority and power among the nations are set forth in this beautiful poetic language. Nor shall their glory fade away as it once did for they shall be as “cedars beside the waters,” planted there by the Lord Himself.

“He shall pour water out of his buckets.” Israel shall be the channel of blessing in the great outpouring of grace upon the cleansed earth in that day. How different a spirit will animate the Jew then for instead of gathering to himself, he will carry blessing for others wherever he goes. “His seed shall be in many waters.”

Israel shall be great in that day; “his king shall be higher than Agag, and his kingdom shall be exalted.” Yet in the midst of their exaltation the Lord will have His people ever to remember that it was through no might of their own, nor was there anything in them that drew down divine favor. It was in sovereign grace that He took them up; “God brought him forth out of Egypt.” Well it is for us to remember that only by grace have we been saved, and every blessing is a gift from God.

“He couched, he lay down as a lion, and as a great lion: who shall stir him up.” It is a picture of Israel at rest after victory. They will be conscious of their power and who will dare to disturb their peace?

God will pour out His Spirit upon His people, and their cup will overflow with spiritual blessings. But we believe these predictions tell of material prosperity as well. “The desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose” (Isa. 35:1). All creation will be blessed but the fairest and most favored spot on earth will be the little land of Palestine, where Christ as Messiah and King shall reign over all. Jerusalem, “beautiful for situation, the joy of the whole earth,... the city of the great King” (Psalm 48:2), will be the capital of His kingdom.

What scenes of coming glories are before us in these wonderful scriptures! And yet the joys and glories that belong to the child of God now surpass them all. May we not be discouraged through looking within at our poor selves, or at the evil and confusion all around us, but have faith to look up, to rest quietly in our Saviour’s love, while we wait for His coming.

ML-05/26/1974

A Converted Gangster Chief

IN A remote section of Brazil where the gospel had been blessed to many, a missionary had arranged to baptize 30 native converts. Satan raised up opposition, however, and some of the unbelieving relatives sought to oppose this step of faith. They even offered Venancio, a gangster chief, a sum of money if he and his band of outlaws would break up the service. Venancio agreed.

The Christians heard of the enemy’s plans but determined to proceed with their service even at the risk of their lives.

A large crowd were on hand to witness the baptismal service and the 30 new converts in their white robes stood by the creek. They sang a few hymns and Gustavo began to preach.

Then they heard the galloping of horses and 30 horsemen approached with Venancio at their head. Riding past the crowd of spectators the men with their pistols drawn stopped in front of the little Christian band.

The crowd drew back terrified, while the believers stood motionless on the river bank. But Gustavo continued to preach.

Then suddenly Venancio rode a few steps forward, turned toward his men and yelled, “Whoever harms these people is a dead man.” He kept his pistol pointed at his own men all during the rest of the sermon. When the preaching ended he gave an order and they all rode away.

How the believers praised God! Tears of gratitude flowed freely as one after another the Christian converts stepped into the water and were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.

Now for the sequel. About two years later the niece of another missionary had received a request for a Bible from a man in a Brazilian prison. When she brought him the Bible he told her this story.

He had been saved two years previously through reading a New Testament. After his conversion he had suffered much reproach and persecution from his fellows. But one day a prisoner came to him and said: “I have watched you in this prison. I have seen how the others persecute you and I marvel how you can be so patient under such injustice. I am convinced that your religion is real.”

With joy the Christian told his fellow prisoner of the saving grace of God through the work of the Lord Jesus on the cross. But the man turned sadly away. “No,” he said, “my sins are too great and too many. God could never forgive me. Don’t you know I am the gangster chief, Venancio. Once I burned down a church. I have shed blood, and have many other crimes on my conscience.

“But one thing I am thankful for,” he went on, “in some strange way I was once prevented from shedding innocent blood. Some Christians were to hold a baptismal service and I was determined to prevent it even if it meant some would lose their lives. I planned to give them a few minutes to clear the place and then I would start shooting.

“But suddenly I saw shining beings above the preacher and the converts waiting to be baptized. They must have been angels. When I recovered from my fright I commanded my men not to harm those people....”

The Christian prisoner continued to speak to Venancio and encouraged him to trust in the Lord whose grace was greater than all his sins.

“For grace is above all his sin and distress,

And he’s nothing to do — save his sin to confess.”

The day came when Venancio knelt with his friend in his cell and they prayed together. There God met Venancio and saved him.

That was the beginning of a wave of blessing behind those dark prison walls. “The people which sat in darkness saw great light.” Matt. 4:16. Others began to come to Christ through their testimony and the warden assigned them a hall in which to meet. Venancio became a pastor to the little group as they sought to walk with the Lord and waited for His coming from heaven.

Such is the transforming power of the grace of God.

The Evangelist

ML-06/02/1974

A Correct Experience

A LITTLE girl was asked to give her experience of conversion. “I don’t know that I have any ‘experience,’ she replied. “All I know is that Jesus said, ‘Come unto Me’ — and I came; and He said, ‘and I will give you rest;’ and He gave me rest.”

Has this been your experience?

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

ML-06/02/1974

Preaching the Gospel

A CHRISTIAN boy, nine years old, was praying by his bedside one evening, and his mother heard him say: “Oh, Lord, you know I very much want to be an engine-driver when I’m grown up, but Mother says that she wants me to preach the gospel; so if you would rather that I should be a preacher, — well, — I don’t mind. Amen.”

Now perhaps some of you boys who read this may preach the gospel some day, and tell the glad tings of salvation to others far and wide. But don’t wait till you are grown up. Right now, while you are young, both boys and girls, you can tell out by your lives, and with your lips, the story of the wonderful love of the Lord Jesus to sinners, and of what He has done for you.

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

Memory Verse: “HOW SHALL WE ESCAPE IF WE NEGLECT SO GREAT SALVATION?” Heb. 2:3.

ML-06/02/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 24:10-25

BALAK’S anger was kindled against Balaam because instead of cursing the people he had blessed them three times. Clapping his hands together he said, “now flee to thy place.” And Balaam was soon to return home, but before he darts Balak is given to hear the most wonderful prophecy of all. Far from his overcoming Israel Balaam tells Balak “what this people shall do to thy people in the latter days.”

This last prophecy is of Christ as God’s King when He reigns in power in Zion, and also tells of the judgment of the nations in the last days.

“There shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Scepter shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Heth.”

Christ is that Star and Scepter and He that shall have dominion. “Israel shall do valiantly” but it will be by His power.

We notice that here the judgment begins with those nations that were related to Israel by common descent. He “shall smite the corners of Moab"; “and Edom shall be a possession.” Next comes Amalek. “Amalek was the first of the nations"; he was the grandson of Esau and the first enemy to fight against God’s redeemed people after they had passed through the Red Sea. “His latter end shall be that he shall perish forever.”

The Kenites, a branch of the Midianites, and descendants of Abram, boasted of their security among the rocks, but they would be wasted “until Asshur [or Ayria] shall carry thee away captive. The sin of the Kenites was self-confidence. How different the hope of him who trusts in the Lord!

What solemn judgments are in store for the nations that know not God! As Balaam sees this “vision of the Almighty” and pursues his parable he says with a cry of pain, “Alas, who shall live when God doeth this!”

Those nations whom God used to punish others will themselves come under His judgment. Asshur might carry the Kenite away captive but “ships shall come from the coasts of Chittim” — some Western power — “shall afflict Asshur and Eber.” But this great leader’s turn comes next — “he also shall perish forever.”

What a wonderful sketch of the history of God’s earthly people we have in these prophecies, beginning with the time of their slavery in Egypt and looking on to their exaltation in the last days. Who would have thought that those poor slaves, groaning under the lash of the Egyptian taskmaster’s whip would one day become the head of all nations; and that peoples from every land would come and do them homage! But such through sovereign grace is their destiny.

“In those days it shall come to pass that ten men... out of all languages of the nations,... shall take hold of the skirt of him that is a Jew, saying, We will go with you, for we have heard that God is with you.” Zech. 8:23. Here lies the secret of their glory and power.

We rejoice in thinking of the blessings God has in store for Israel, while at the same time we know ours is a more blessed portion still. Those “goodly tents” of Jacob, how fair they appeared under His eye! But He has clothed us with the best robe of heaven, — Christ Himself — and we are the guests of honor now at His table. Christ has already won the victory for us on the cross and we are more than conquerors through Him that loved us. He has prepared a place for us in the Father’s house of many mansions where He shall share His glory with us, and we shall sing His and the Father’s praise forever.

ML-06/02/1974

How Mary Got Rid of Her Burden

SUNDAY SCHOOL wasn’t for Mary White. It was all right for other kids, but she was too much of a tomboy with her blue jeans and toy guns. She was just twelve years old and the ring leader of a neighborhood gang of boys and girls-into all kinds of mischief.

Still the folks who went to Sunday school were kind to her and let her come into their homes at times. One day she and a friend came into the yard eating green apples from trees that grew wild on the hills. “If you like apple pie,” said the kind lady, “I’ll make you one if you and your friend will bring me a bag full.”

She gave Mary a paper sack and away the two went to the hills. Soon they were back with the bag full of green apples. For the next hour the Christian lady busied herself peeling the apples and making the dough. Soon the pie went into the oven and at last it was baked.

At the appointed time Mary and her friend arrived. How delicious that fresh apple pie tasted with lots of ice cream piled on top. Afterwards Mary had a warm feeling in her heart and in her tummy for the people who went to Sunday School.

Then one day a gospel tent was set up on a vacant lot in the neighborhood and a Sunday school bus went round bringing in loads of children to the meetings. Unlike the Sunday services the children didn’t have to dress up — they could come in their regular play clothes. This was more to Mary’s liking so one morning when the bus stopped she clambered aboard.

At the tent meeting it was all new to Mary, but she sat right up the front and listened with rapt attention as a young evangelist told Bible stories and showed pictures of the Pilgrim’s Progress. One picture above all left a lasting impression on Mary’s mind — the man with the big load on his back, and of how he finally got rid of it at the foot of the cross of the Lord Jesus.

Mary suddenly became conscious of a big load that was weighing her down — the heavy burden of her sins. As the days went by that load seemed to grow heavier, until one day she felt she couldn’t stand it any longer. Down the hill she ran, tears running down her face, to the home of her Christian friends.

“What’s the matter, Mary?” they asked her. Out came the story. Praise the Lord, Mary wanted to be saved. She wanted to get rid of that heavy burden of sin. Aunt Stella took her into Uncle Jim’s office and there she wept out her sorrow. In a most kind and gentle way they pointed her to the Saviour who loved her and whose blood cleanses from all sin. Down at the feet of Jesus Mary took Him as her Saviour and when she arose her heavy burden of sin was gone — and gone forever. “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners: of whom I am chief.” 1 Tim. 1:15. Mary’s tears were now tears of joy. What rejoicing there was in the house that day. But what can be compared to the joy in the presence of the angels in heaven over one sinner who repents!

Things were different for Mary from then on, “for old things had passed away” and “all things had become new.” She gave up her old sinful habits and worldly companions. But living wasn’t easy for her father was an enemy of the gospel. Still she went on faithfully and found help and encouragement from her new Christian friends. On Sundays she would help round up the children. Then one day when she was old enough she bought a station wagon of her own and for years she filled that wagon with boys and girls and brought them to Sunday school.

Now Mary is a nurse in a large hospital and is living for the Lord. Recently her older sister accepted Christ and the blessing still goes on.

How about you, dear young rear? Are you troubled about your sins as Mary was? If you will come to the Saviour He will take that burden away and you will go on your way to heaven rejoicing.

Memory Verse: “IF THOU SEEK HIM, HE WILL BE FOUND OF THEE.” 1 Chron. 28:9.

ML-06/09/1974

A Grateful Bear Cub

“DAD, there’s a bear on top of the neighbor’s cabin,” exclaimed Tim excitedly.

Sure enough there was a young cub on top of the roof. Tim and his father cautiously approached the neighbor’s cabin and knocked on the door. “There’s a bear on your roof, Mrs. Smith,” they announced.

“Yes,” replied their kind neighbor. “He seems to have adopted us. When we first found him we could see he was in trouble. He had investigated a porcupine and his nose was full of quills. We coaxed him over to our cabin with some food and then Mr. Smith gave him a good dose of sleeping pills. While he slept we pulled out the quills. The bear is so grateful, now he wants to stay with us. When he’s not up on the roof he’s looking in the windows at us. Perhaps he wants us to know how grateful he is.”

The bear cub was grateful, but how often boys and girls, and older people too, who don’t know the Lord, are unthankful for all the things God has done for us. God sent His beloved Son into a world of sinners to die for them, and Jesus went to Calvary’s cross to bear their sins and to put them all away. But, sad to say, many do not want Him, they are too proud and go on their way as if they don’t need a Saviour. But He is the sinner’s only hope. God has no other way of salvation, “There is none other name under heaven given among men whereby we must be saved.”

In the Bible one asks the question: “What shall I render unto the Lord for all His benefits toward me?” Then in the next verse he answers, “I will take the cup of salvation and call upon the name of the Lord.” Psalm 116:12,13.

Dear young friend, we can only show our gratitude to God for all He has done for us by first taking His beloved Son as our Saviour, and then seeking to serve and live for Him down here.

ML-06/09/1974

Christ the Only Refuge

A COUNTRY minister once called at a cottage by the roadside and asked the lady that answered the door if she could read. He wished to lend her a little book called “Christ the only refuge.”

“No sir,” she replied, “I cannot read; but I have a little boy, nine years old, who can read. However, he is sick in bed.”

“Well, give him this little book, and ask him to read it. I will call for it another time.”

When he called again the mother burst into tears. “Sir, my boy is dead,” she said, “and has left you this penny.”

“And did he read the little book?”

“Sir, he read it till he could repeat the whole of it. He talked of nothing else till he died. And to the last he begged that I would not give you back the book when you called; but to thank you and give you this penny for it.

“And he begged that I would learn to read that little book. Just before he died he cried out, “Mother, Christ is my only refuge! Christ is my only refuge! Do not part with the book; it will do for my father.”

“In the fear of the Lord is strong confidence: and His children shall have a place of refuge.” Prov. 14:26.

ML-06/09/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 25:1,2

BALAAM’S prophecies were a message from God to the Gentiles who did not know Him. It is said that the prediction of the rising of “a Star out of Jacob” (chapter 24:17) was not lost among the peoples of the East. It is thought that the wise men from the East who came to see the child Jesus knew of this prophecy and that they connected it with the bright star which they had seen. Doubtless they were guided by God Himself and they came seeking Him that was born King of the Jews.

“When they saw the star, they rejoiced with exceeding great joy. And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary His mother, and fell down, and worshipped Him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto Him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.” Matt. 2:10,11.

But the time had not yet come for the rightful king to reign. He must first suffer and die to put away the sins of His people. But the day is drawing near when He shall come and put down all His enemies, Israel shall be blessed under Him and He shall reign gloriously over all the earth.

In Scripture we have first “the sufferings of Christ” and then “the glory that should follow” (1 Pet. 1:11). This order is true for us as Christians; “If we suffer, we shall also reign with Him.” 2 Tim. 2:12.

We now come to a very sad event in Israel’s history, when they were but a step from the promised land. Immediately following those wonderful pronouncements of future glory and blessing, we read: “And the people began to commit whoredom with the daughters of Moab. And they called the people unto the sacrifices of their gods: and the people did eat, and bowed down to their gods.”

Israel fell before the seducing wiles of Satan. They did worse here than at Horeb when they worshiped the golden calf. Such is the flesh in all of us. What is it not capable of? Instead of improving, it only corrupts. How widely accepted is the teaching that the flesh can be improved, while on the other hand how commonly is it held a believer can “fall from grace” and be lost again.

We can be thankful for the truth of Scripture and for the Lord’s own words concerning His sheep: “I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish.” John 10:28. In Israel’s wilderness story we learn the incurable evil of our own nature, but we also see the unchanging word of God’s grace.

It is evident from Numbers 31:16 that Balaam was Satan’s instrument in bringing about Israel’s humbling fall. Unable to curse the people, he could seduce them, and here we see the wisdom of the old Serpent. He knows our hearts and so he was able to get at Israel through the lusts of the flesh. If he could get the people to sin against God, he would succeed in bringing down His anger and judgment upon them. He would say to God, as it were, See what kind of people these are that Thou art intent on blessing.

But the Lord knows His people well, better than Satan does, and His purpose to bless them is unchangeable. God was looking on to Christ. Grace reigns through righteousness now since Christ has died.

ML-06/09/1974

A Little Child Shall Lead Them

A BUSINESSMAN who held a very responsible position in a large industrial firm was helping his son-in-law build a house. He needed a little help so he asked a Christian contractor to meet him at the site of the new home. Their business was brief and pleasant, but the man'? conduct and speech led the contractor to believe he too was a child of God.

Afterward the contractor asked him if he knew the Lord Jesus as his Saviour. The man then invited him into his home where he met his wife, his daughter and son-in-law. All were bright, happy Christians. As they visited together, he told this story.

The new house was started in mid-summer and closed in late in the Fall for fear the winter frost might damage the cellar wall, as the dirt was not shoveled in against the wall. Then too he wanted to lay tile along the bottom of the trench to keep the water out.

It was Saturday morning and he was down in the trench with his high boots on and working in mud almost to his knees. As far as he knew he was all alone.

Suddenly he thought he heard a child’s sweet voice saying, “Say, Mister, do you know that Jesus loves you?” He looked up but could see no one. Then he heard the sweet voice again, “Say, Mister, do you know that Jesus died for you?” This time it seemed as if he froze and could not look up.

He tried to go on with his work, when again he heard that sweet little voice, “Say, Mister, do you know that Jesus died for us?” This time he felt weak and couldn’t move. He held on to the shovel to steady himself, as he leaned against the wall, the sweat running down his face. He felt that he was in the presence of God. God loved him and was pointing him, a sinner, to His beloved Son, the only Saviour. There in the bottom of the trench he opened his heart and received Christ as his Saviour. While standing in the deep mud he passed from death unto life.

When he regained enough strength he climbed out of the ditch and there stood a beautiful golden-haired little girl, about four years old. She smiled up at him so sweetly and he asked her where she lived. She pointed to a little white house down the street. So taking her by the hand he went to meet her mother and told her what had happened. Her mother said, “I don’t know where she got those words from except she has been going to a little Sunday school with another little friend.”

“A little child shall lead them.” Isa. 11:6

“He brought me up also out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings. And He hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God:” Psa. 40:2,3

“These things are written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.” 1 John 5:13

Memory Verse: “I SAY UNTO YOU, THERE IS JOY IN THE PRESENCE OF THE ANGELS OF GOD OVER ONE SINNER THAT REPENTETH.” LUKE 15:10.

ML-06/16/1974

Brave Rover

MRS. PLYMOUTH ROCK lived in the chicken coop out by the wood pile with her brood of eleven chicks. They were black and yellow, but the cutest of all was little Yellow Chick.

Mother Hen always stayed in the coop. The little chicks would run out between the slats and venture off through the grass and into the yard. When Mother Hen wanted to call them home she would utter a loud call, “Cluck! cluck, cluck!” and the little chicks would come running to the coop.

One summer afternoon when Mrs. Hill, the farmer’s wife, was sitting on the back porch sewing, suddenly there was a great cackling and scurrying among the other chickens around the yard. They all ran as fast as they could to the hen house. Mrs. Hill stood up and looked around to see what was the matter.

There in the sky coming toward the farmyard was a large gray hawk. Old Mother Hen heard the cries of the other fowls and called her chicks to hurry home. “Cluck, cluck, cluck!” went Mother Hen.

All the little chicks ran as fast as their little legs could carry them to the coop. But little Yellow Chick could not run fast. He stumbled over the chips near the wood pile. The hawk with his sharp eye saw the little fellow and flew straight toward him. Mother Hen could not help little Yellow Chick for she could not get out of the coop.

Mrs. Hill ran as fast as she could to help him but could not get there in time. However, Rover, lying under a tree in the front yard, hearing the commotion came running like the wind past Mrs. Hill.

Rover jumped at the fierce hawk and snapped at him with his sharp white teeth just as the hawk was swooping down to catch little Yellow Chick in his claws. When the hawk heard the barking and saw Rover dash at him he forgot about wanting to catch little Yellow Chick and flew away as fast as he could. Up into the sky he flew, over the woods and far away.

Mrs. Hill picked up little Yellow Chick and put him in the coop with Mother Hen who took him safely under her wing.

“Good dog!” said Mrs. Hill as she patted Rover’s head. He wagged his tail as if to say “thank you” though it was nothing. Mrs. Hill went back to her mending while Rover lay down near the hen coop to guard little Yellow Chick.

Little boys and girls, older ones too, like little Yellow Chick are helpless in the presence of their great enemy — Satan. The devil seeks to catch them and take them away where they are lost forever. The blessed Lord Jesus came from heaven to save sinners and to rescue them from Satan’s power. He died on the cross but in His resurrection he broke the power of Satan, and now all who trust Him as their Saviour, find in Him a refuge and are safe forever.

ML-06/16/1974

One Broken Link

FISHERMAN JOE went down to the dock early one morning intending to get his boat ready for a fishing trip. Alas, when he got there his boat was gone. During the night one of the links in the chain had broken and his boat had drifted away out to sea and disappeared. The coast guard looked out over the water with his powerful telescope but even he could not spot Joe’s boat — it was gone forever.

Poor Joe felt very sad. How would he buy food and clothes for his wife and little children now that his boat was gone and he could catch no more fish? In his trouble he went to a Christian pastor and told him his boat had disappeared during the night.

“Did you not have it tied with a chain?”

“Yes, but one of the links broke,” answered Joe, “The rest seemed all right.”

The Christian man sought to comfort poor Joe and as they talked together he said, “You know, Joe, this reminds me of some people ling right in this village. They strive to live honest lives and think they are pretty good because they try to keep the ten commandments. But God’s commandments are like a chain of ten links. Did you say only one link in the chain was broken?”

“Yes,” answered Joe.

“And your boat was lost because only one link broke?” pursued his friend.

“That’s right,” said Joe. And then he was in a hurry to get away for now he realized what his friend was getting at. He saw that he was like his boat, that he had sinned, and had broken the holy law of God. Even if he had committed but one sin (and he well knew he had sinned often) yet that was enough to put him under the curse of a broken law — he was lost! He didn’t like to talk about it so hastily saying good-by he went on his way.

His Christian friend longed to tell him of the Saviour who had died to save sinners, for in the Bible we read, “Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us.” Gal. 3:13.

Not long after Joe was able to get another boat, but we hope that the loss of his first boat and the words of the preacher were used of God to make him think of his lost condition and that he turned to the Lord Jesus for the salvation of his soul. We hope his little children also grew up to learn of the Saviour’s love. If this was so then Joe would not be sorry for the loss of his boat, if through it he had found the Saviour and gained eternal life.

ML-06/16/1974

Bible Talks

Numbers 25:3-18

“AND ISRAEL joined himself unto Baal-peor: and the anger of the Lord was kindled against Israel.”

It seems that the wicked Balaam counseled Balak, king of Moab, telling him that if he could make Israel sin, God was so holy that He would destroy them. So the king made friends with Israel, and the daughters of Moab drew the people to the sacrifice of Moab’s gods. Through Balaam, Satan’s instrument, they were seduced and led into sin.

This has a very needful lesson for us. God’s purpose to bless will never be changed, but Satan is a wily foe and though he cannot touch our eternal salvation yet he would lead us into friendships and alliances with the world which will dishonor the Lord, spoil our happiness and ruin our Christian testimony.

Let us be warned by what happened to Israel here. May we seek grace and courage to choose the path of simple obedience to the Word of God; there we shall be kept happy and enjoy His blessing. When God’s people have allied themselves with the world it has always resulted in His dealing with them in government and the world in judgment, even though He is very patient and gives space to repent.

Judgment was surely to fall upon Moab and Midian for what they had done, but first it must begin at the house of God. The Lord told Moses to slay all those who had joined themselves to Baal-peor.

Then we read of one man, Zimri, son of a prince in Israel, who brought a Midianitish woman into the camp before Moses and all the people who were weeping before the door of the tabernacle. When Phinehas, son of Eleazar the priest, saw it he took a javelin and rushing into the man’s tent he killed both him and the woman.

Phinehas was zealous for God’s honor and was grieved that an idolator should have been brought into His camp. But this act of Phinehas stayed the plague, though not until 24,000 had died in Israel that day.

God showed His approval of Phinehas’ faithful act and said to Moses, “Behold, I give unto him My covenant of peace: and he shall have it, and his seed after him, even the covenant of an everlasting priesthood; because he was zealous for his God, and made an atonement for Israel.”

The weapons of Israel’s warfare were carnal, ours are spiritual; they fought against flesh and blood, we with spiritual foes. The Word of God and prayer, walking in the truth in separation unto Him from the world, these are the weapons of our warfare. When God’s honor is vindicated in our own souls then we are able to be His witnesses against the world and its evils. We may not get much honor from men, and even from some Christians, if we act for the Lord’s glory, but His honor ought to be everything to the Christian.

God told Moses to “Vex the Midnites, and smite them” for what they had done. And later we learn that God gave them into the hands of His people who slew them with a great slaughter and burnt down their cities. The wretched Balaam perished along with them. Thus God was avenged on the Midianites.

ML-06/16/1974

Kembo the African Cripple

WHEN KEMBO was just four years old she fell into the river and a crocodile grabbed her. Hearing her screams her mother rushed into the water and rescued her but not before the crocodile had bitten and crushed her legs. Kembo was now an invalid and had to be carried about by others.

Poor little girl! Six long years went by and how she longed to attend school in the next African village. Early every morning her brother started out for school and she yearned to go with him, but that was impossible. The witch door did nothing for her.

One day as she dragged herself along the river bank, sad and forlorn, she heard the noise of a motor boat in the distance. As the boat came in sight it headed for the bank where she was sitting. Then two men jumped ashore.

They asked Kembo if she would show them the way to her village. But she couldn’t walk and only turned her face away while the tears ran down her cheeks. Then noticing her crippled legs one of the men offered to carry her. He had such a kind look on his face and Kembo was not afraid. Tether they reached the village and the two strangers had a long talk with the village chief. He invited them to stay overnight.

In the morning Kembo crawled out of her hut and sat by the big pot to wait for breakfast. She was too frail to help. Presently her father and one of the strangers came across to where she was sitting.

“Will you go with this man?” her father asked her.

“Go where, and what for?” she asked.

“They want to take you to the missionary hospital, the House of Healing,” he replied.

The other man told her the doctor might be able to help her walk again. Would she go?

Kembo hesitated for a moment, for to go away from her village and friends and live with strange people was quite a step for a little girl. But the thought of being able to walk again, to be no longer useless, thrilled her, and she replied, “Yes, I will go.”

Soon they were at the hospital and Kembo was not disappointed for the doctor was able to help her.

But that was not all. While her legs were in a cast she rode to school in a wheel chair and began to learn to read and write and do useful things.

Best of all these she learned about the Lord Jesus, that blessed Saviour who died for boys and girls, and sinners everywhere. The time came when she opened her heart to receive Him as her very own Saviour. She learned that God loved her and that all her blessings came from Him.

Kembo made up a little song which she sang to the other patients at the mission hospital:

I am so happy,

My heart is so gay,

Knowing Jesus loves me,

Loves me night and day.

Then came the happy day when Kembo returned to her village again. How delighted everyone was to see her walk again! But she had something more wonderful than this to show them — she had a new life too. She had learned to read and many a friend in the village was won to the Lord Jesus through her life and the message from God’s Word.

In the midst of her happiness Kembo liked to think that all this had come because when she was asked the question, “Will you go with this man?” she had answered, “I will go!” She was like Rebekah who long, long before was asked that same question, and at the end of that long journey she found Isaac. Kembo had found Jesus.

And still, dear friends, the Spirit of God comes and speaks to hearts, “Will you go with this Man?” Will you go to Jesus, and follow Him? Then like Kembo, may your answer be, “Yes, I will go.”

ML-06/23/1974

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 Satan” (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. (Judges 14:3,14). 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 Pet. 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 Pet. 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).

J. R.

ML-06/23/1974

The Widow's Tree

SOME years ago a violent storm, with wind and thunder, swept through the valley of Yellow Creek, in Indiana County, Georgia. For more than a mile in width trees were uprooted, houses, barns, and fences were thrown down, and ruin and desolation were spread all over the land.

In the center of the region over which this hurricane swept stood a small cabin. It was occupied by an aged Christian widow, with her only son. The terrible wind struck a large tree in front of her humble dwelling, twisting and dashing it about. If the tree should fall, it would crush her home, and probably kill herself and her son. The storm howled and raged, and the big trees were falling on every hand. In the midst of all the danger the widow knelt in prayer, and asked God to spare that tree, and protect her home, and save her own life, and that of her son. Her prayer was heard. When the storm was over, the widow’s tree was spared, and, strange as it may seem, it was the only one left amidst that scene of desolation. There it stood, as if on purpose to show what power our loving Saviour has to protect from danger those who trust in Him.

ML-06/23/1974

"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.

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

ML-06/23/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 26:1-65

IN THIS chapter we read that God told Moses to number the people again, — all that were able to go to war, twenty years old and upward. And Moses and Eleazar counted the men of war in the plains of Jordan near Jericho. They also counted the Levites, all that were more than a month old.

Forty years before they had been numbered, after they left Egypt and began their wilderness journey. Now there was not one left of those who had been numbered at the beginning — except Joshua and Caleb. All that generation died, according to the word of the Lord, because they despised the pleasant land.

But His government goes on in our lives just the same. Like the two rails of the railway, His grace and government run on together, side by side. This ought to be a sobering thought to our minds. We read of some here, like Dathan and Abiram, who were “famous in the congregation,” but they did not escape the government of God, for He is “no respecter of persons.”

It is a solemn as well as a blessed thing to have to do with the living God, and how needful it is for us to have low thoughts of ourselves, to be constantly before Him in self-judgment. May the Lord keep us with our eyes upon Himself, our blessed Object in heaven and find in His Word guidance and comfort for our wilderness journey.

God makes special mention here of Korah and his company, “when they strove against the Lord: and the earth opened her mouth, and swallowed them up together, with Korah, when that company died, what time the fire devoured the two hundred and fifty men:... notwithstanding the children of Korah died not.” vv. 10,11.

Here we have one of those wonderful instances of the precious grace of God triumphing in the midst of the most solemn scenes of judgment. “The children of Korah” were spared. Their father was the ringleader and organizer in that rebellion which brought down fearful judgment from God. But the same hand that dealt the awful blow, when the earth opened her mouth and the guilty rebels went down alive into the pit, reached out and saved the children from destruction. How precious to see the honored place these very children or descendants of Korah have in Israel’s history for they took part in “the service of song,” and a number of Psalms are inscribed. “To the sons of Korah.” What grace they have to sing about! Well might they praise the Lord! And we who know a more wonderful deliverance and salvation, what grace we have to sing about, unto Him who has redeemed us by the blood of His own dear Son, to Him, “the God of all grace.”

This numbering of the people again tells of God’s love and personal interest in each one of His own. That love was unchanged in spite of all His people’s failures during those forty years in the wilderness. “Having loved His own which were in the world He loved them unto the end”, so we read in John 13:1. May we enter into and enjoy His love more, dear young Christian, during this “little while” we wait for Him.

ML-06/23/1974

Tom's Whistling and What Came of It

TOM was just a little paper boy who sold papers on the street corner of a big city. He was neither big nor important but one day something big and important happened to him. He_ attended Sunday school regularly and on this particular afternoon while in his class he accepted the Lord Jesus as his Saviour.

From then on Tom wanted others to know this same precious Saviour and to experience the joy he now felt. But he was timid and too young to preach; nevertheless he could whistle. So as he stood on the busy street corner in the evenings and sold his papers he would whistle hymn tunes. His favorite was “Jesus Loves Me.”

One night while he was whistling his favorite hymn a drunk staggered out of a tavern and stopped to listen. “What are you whistling, boy?” he asked.

“I’m whistling a hymn, sir,” said Tom, “and it goes like this:

“Jesus loves me! This I know,

For the Bible tells me so;

Little ones to Him belong;

They are weak, but He is strong.

Yes, Jesus loves me!

The Bible tells me so.”

“Well I’m sure He doesn’t love an old drunk like me,” sighed the old man.

“Oh, yes, He does, mister,” insisted Tom. “You come with me and find out for yourself.”

Tom led the poor old fellow to a mission where they gave him a meal, a warm bath and a nice bed to sleep in. It was all done in the name of the Lord Jesus. The kindness melted the heart of the old drunk man. He came to truly trust in the Lord as his Saviour, who took away his thirst for drink. He gave up his old sinful life and companions and for years he lived to preach salvation through the blood of Jesus. Many were saved through his gospel messages. And all this began when Tom whistled for the Lord.

ML-06/30/1974

Mr. John's Surprise

WHEN MR. JOHN, the postman, was sorting mail he noticed a verse printed on the back of an envelope: “What shall it profit a man if he gain the whole world and lose his own soul.” Mark 8:36. He knew he was not saved and that if he died in his sins he would be lost forever.

About a week later he came across an envelope with another text on it, and this one read, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31. He paused and looking earnestly at that verse, he said to himself, “Do I believe on the Lord Jesus Christ? No, I don’t! Am I saved? No"; and his thoughts troubled him.

That same evening as he walked down the street he passed a building where a gospel service was going on, and he went in and sat down. What was his surprise to hear the preacher read from the Bible, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved.”

The preacher took these words for his text and then went on to speak of God’s great love in giving Jesus His beloved Son to die on the cross for sinners. As Mr. John listened eagerly he saw clearly that Jesus had died for his sins. He received the message with joy and went home rejoicing in the knowledge that God had forgiven all his sins and that now he was saved and on the heavenly road.

“I have been a different man ever since,” he told others, “and I do thank whoever it was that put those verses on the envelopes.”

Dear young friend, God is as good as His word. Believe on the Lord Jesus now and you will be saved for time and eternity.

ML-06/30/1974

Keep on Sowing

A CHRISTIAN, traveling on a boat, distributed tracts. While they were taken and read by many, a gentleman took one, and folding it up, cut it with a penknife into small pieces. Then holding it up in derision, he threw it away. One piece adhered to his coat; he picked it off and looking at it, saw the word, “God.” He turned it over; on the other side, “Eternity.” They stood out as living words before him. “God” — “Eternity.” He went to the bar, called for brandy to drink to drive them away, but in vain. Then to the gambling-table, but those solemn words haunted him wherever he went until he was brought a penitent to the feet of Jesus. What an encouragement to the Christian to sow seed by the wayside!

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

ML-06/30/1974

Saved Through His Cow

ROY WENT to Sunday school and learned many verses of Scripture by memory just as many of our readers do today. One verse he learned was Isaiah 1:3: “The ox knoweth his owner, and the ass his master’s crib: but Israel doth not know, My people doth not consider.”

However, Roy did not turn to the Lord as he ought to have done, but as he grew older he became very careless and indifferent. He cared little for the God who had created him, who loved him and had given His Son to die for his sins. He thought little about the need of his never-dying soul.

When he was a man, one day Roy stood in one of his fields and his favorite cow came and licked his hand. Suddenly there flashed into his mind the verse he had learned long before when a boy. “The ox knoweth his owner, and the ass his master’s crib: but Israel doth not know, My people doth not consider.” Why, he thought, my cow is more intelligent than I am. She knows me well enough, and yet here I have been living all these years without God who has only sought my good and blessing. He was both humbled and sorry at what he had done, and turning to the Lord in repentance, he found pardon and peace in Jesus, who is the sinner’s Friend.

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

But oh, to think of those wasted years! How much better it had been if Roy had taken the Lord as his Saviour when just a boy, and lived for Him all those years.

“Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth.” Eccles. 12:1. “My son, give Me thine heart.” Prov. 23:26. “I love them that love Me, and they that seek Me early shall find Me.” Prov. 8:17.

ML-06/30/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 27:1-11

ONLY THE river Jordan separated God’s people from the land of promise. They had been numbered for their inheritance in the land and already they were thinking of the possession each would have. And now comes the touching request of the five sisters whose father, Zelophehad, had died and left no sons. The tender thoughts of God are set forth here in a very beautiful way.

These sisters counted on God, and they were not disappointed. They came to Moses and asked him if they might have the possession the Lord had promised their father, that his name might not be forgotten among his brethren. Moses had never handled a petition like this before and he did not trust his own judgment in the matter but brought their cause before the Lord.

This only brings out a fine trait in Moses’ character. Far from seeking to maintain a reputation for knowing everything, he did not hesitate to confess he was unable to solve such a simple difficulty. We can learn from a great man like Moses to go to the Lord and His Word for guidance even in simple matters.

The request of these sisters called for an answer outside of that which had been set forth in the law thus far. But grace acts outside of law and God answered the faith of these sisters according to what He is in Himself. He was pleased with them for counting on His goodness and said that they should have a possession just the same as if they had been sons.

Like Achsah, Caleb’s daughter (Josh. 15; Judg. 1), these daughters of Zelophehad appreciated the goodness of God in giving them the land, and they wanted an inheritance in it. And God wants His people to enjoy in large measure what He gives them. He rewards those who have confidence in Him to ask for what it is His good pleasure to give. David could say, “O taste and see that the Lord is good!”

How lovely it is to see in our meetings young sisters who really value their spiritual heavenly inheritance and go on faithfully for the Lord. The odds may seem against them, and they may seem to be little noticed by others, but God takes notice of their faithfulness and values such devotedness today.

The story of Zelophehad’s daugers beautifully expresses the anticipating and appropriating power of a living faith. May we follow their example, for we believe the Lord has recorded this touching incident for our instruction and encouragement today.

ML-06/30/1974

A Little Girl's Prayer

Blessed Saviour, by Thy grace,

Ever let me seek Thy face;

Always may I fly from sin,

Trust Thy Word and walk therein.

Righteous Father, give me power

In Christ’s blood to trust each hour;

Call me Thy dear child to be,

Ever living, Lord, for Thee.

Lines written in the Bible of a young Sunday school girl.

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

ML-06/30/1974

Jean

A DOCTOR passing through the ward of a hospital, noticed a little boy with a very sad face lying in one of the beds. He was far from his home, and could not speak a word of English, or understand what the nurses said to him, but the doctor could speak French. Delighted at hearing his own language, the boy sat up, and clasping the doctor’s hand, felt he had found a friend.

“Do you think I shall soon be well doctor?” asked little Jean — for that was his name — anxiously.

“Well, Jean, I cannot say, but I’m sure everything will be done for you here to make you well,” said the doctor tenderly. “But what if you do not recover, Jean, where do you think you will go after you leave this world?”

The boy shook his head, he had not evidently thought of that. So the doctor, who loved the Lord, and sought to tell others, told Jean of the love of Jesus, in coming down to earth to die, that he might be saved and go to heaven. The boy drank in the truth, and when the doctor asked, “Do you think you can trust yourself to such a Saviour, Jean?”

“Yes,” said the boy, “for He so loves me.”

Day after day the doctor sat by the little patient’s bed, and told him more of Jesus. Jean did not die, but got better, and returned to his homeland to tell his friends and companions, of the wonderful love of Jesus.

“Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God, through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Romans 5:1.

ML-06/30/1974

"Auntie's" Mistake

Once when Princess Louise of England visited Bermuda, a magnificent public reception was planned in her honor at St. Georges.

The day before the gala event the princess went all alone for a stroll along one of the beautiful beaches. During her walk she became thirsty and stopped at the cottage of a native fisherman.

No one was home but “Auntie,” and she was busy as could be ironing a shirt for “Ole Man” to wear at the reception.

When the princess asked for a drink of water, “Auntie: replied, “I’se no time to bodder getting water for you. I’se fea’ful busy, for I’se bound to see the Queen’s chile tomorrow.”

“But if you’ll get me a drink, I’ll iron while you do so,” said the princess.

The offer was accepted and the princess finished the shirt and she got her drink of water. Then she told who she was.

When “Auntie” recovered from her surprise, she declared that “Neither ‘Ole Man” nor any one else should ever wear that shirt again.”

In the Bible we find a far more wonderful story about the King of kings, the Lord Jesus Christ who, in lowly human guise and weary with His journey, sat on a well and asked a poor sinful woman for a drink. Like old “Auntie” she didn’t know who this Stranger was. But He gave her a drink of the living water, which comes not from any earthly well, but from heaven. Read the whole of this wonderful story for yourself in John’s Gospel, chapter 4.

“Jesus answered and said unto her, 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; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.” Vv. 10, 13, 14

ML-07/07/1974

Julie's Prayer

He was unconverted and worse than that, he wasn’t concerned about it. But he didn’t want his little Julie to know and possess what he didn’t. So he and his wife agreed that their Julie should go to Sunday school. Under God’s gracious hand this was going to be a means of blessing to that home.

Sweetly and simply Julie placed her faith and trust in the Savior she heard about at Sunday school. Such joy filled her little heart and she must tell her parents of her happiness. This had a profound effect on both. Her father became convicted of sin and begged his wife to pray for him.

“I can’t pray for you,” she told him, “but Julie can.”

“Julie, can you pray for your poor father?” he asked.

“Dear Lord, please save Daddy and Mommie,” prayed the little girl, and that prayer was to be answered.

Her father asked her to read to him and so, led by the Spirit, she turned to John 3. At verse 16 he stopped her. She had read: “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.”

“Is that in the Bible?” he exclaimed. “Read it again.” So she repeated it.

“Oh, Julie,” he said, “that ‘whosoever’ is your poor father.” And with that he took God at His Word and from storm and sorrow he entered into peace and joy. He had been led by his little child into the path of blessing.

That word “whosoever” was for Mary’s mother as well for she too believed in Jesus as her Savior and found peace.

And it is for you too, dear reader. Believe and the blessing shall be yours also.

“The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and He addeth no sorrow with it.” Prov. 10:22

ML-07/07/1974

The King and the Kitchen Boy

Louis IX, King of France, was found instructing a poor kitchen boy in God’s plan of redemption. Asked why he troubled himself with the lad, the king replied,

“The meanest person has a soul as precious as my own, and bought with the same precious blood of Christ.”

ML-07/07/1974

"Come, and Drink"

In eastern countries water has often to be purchased, for only in a few cities can it be piped directly into the houses. So water carriers are needed and they go through the streets crying out, “He ya, ‘atchan, tahaloo yishraboo,” which means, “Ho, ye thirsty ones, come and drink!”

This is just such as the prophet Isaiah utters in chapter 55 of his prophecy:

“Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters.”

The water carrier sells the water he carries, and in this we find a great difference to what Isaiah cries, for he says:

“And he that hath no money: com eye, buy ... without money and without price.”

The water carrier often meets a group of children playing. They are thirsty but have no money to buy. Sometimes a kindly passerby wishing to do a helpful deed will pay for all the water which the carrier has; and now the children are invited to come and drink freely for nothing.

Then the carrier will alter his cry and shout out, “Ho, ye thirsty ones, come and drink today for nothing. The water is free!”

This is the true gospel cry. Christ has paid. Now the water of life is free.

“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23

“And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” Rev. 22:17

Memory Verse: “For Thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive.” Psa. 86:5

ML-07/07/1974

He Is Risen!

A business man stood looking into a shop window at a beautiful painting of the crucifixion of Christ. His attention was so riveted on the picture that he did not notice the a little boy who was standing by him, also looking at the picture.

Presently the child said, “Mister, He died for us!” and slowly he told the story of Jesus and His love, and His death on the cross for us, as he had heard it at Sunday School. Not realizing the effect his words had on the man, he slipped away leaving him still gazing intently at the picture, while the story of the Savior’s love laid hold on his heart.

Then he felt a tug on his coat sleeve. Turning he saw the little fellow again, who pointing to the picture, said with great emphasis: “Mister, HE’S RISEN, and GONE BACK TO HEAVEN, AND HE’S COMING AGAIN.”

ML-07/07/1974

Does It Shine on Your Back?

“I have been going on with my back on God for 18 years!” So said a weary wayworn wanderer from God.

“Then the grace of God has been shining on your back for 18 years,” was the old preacher’s answer.

The grace of God shines on you!

Has it shone on your back for 18 or even 80 years? Right about turn then. Let it shine on your face today.

ML-07/07/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 27:12-23

The Lord told Moses to ascend Mount Abarim and from the mountain top he would have a glimpse of the promised land. After that he would die as Aaron his brother had, because he lost his patience with the people and dishonored the Lord at Meribah. After leading the people those long forty years through the wilderness it must have been a great sorrow for Moses to realize that he could not lead them into that beautiful land.

But it is lovely to see how Moses rises above his sorrow and disappointment, and is forgetful of self, seeking only the good of others. Here at the close of his course he continues to display the same desire for the blessing of God’s people as he did throughout his life. When told that he was about to be taken away in death, he asked the Lord to set a man over the congregation who would go in and out before them and lead them, so that the people of the Lord would not be like sheep without a shepherd. You see, he always thought of the people first of all, because he saw them as God’s people. No one knew their badness as he did, but he loved them because they belonged to the Lord.

Although Moses was the lawgiver, yet more often than not he acted in grace that met the people’s need when they had failed. How lovely it is to find one growing old who still seeks the blessing of God’s people. May we have more of the spirit that Moses showed here and entreat the Lord to raise up those who would care for the flock of God.

The Lord answered Moses’ desire and chose Joshua, his own servant, who had been with him and ministered to him and who had seen all his meek and lowly ways. He told Moses to take Joshua, a man in whom was the Spirit, and lay his hands on him and set him before Eleazar the priest and all the people. Moses was to give Joshua a charge in their sight and put some of his honor upon him, that all might be obedient unto him. He was to stand before Eleazar, and Eleazar was to ask counsel of the Lord for him. At the word of the priest they should go out and come in. And Moses did so.

Moses represented the law, but there was no entrance to the land on that ground. The people had failed utterly under it and Moses himself had failed. One sin was enough to shut Moses—or any one of us—out of all blessing. Yet it is beautiful to see Moses in company with the Lord, and Elijah, on the mount of transfiguration (Matt. 17; Luke 9). He is in the land there. Law might have kept him out, but grace brings him in. And so it is grace alone that brings any of us into blessing and into that heavenly land in the soon coming day.

Moses was God’s mediator. God spoke with him face to face and gave the law into his hands. But now God was going to take away the mediator and they were going to enter the land with a new leader or captain who had begun his course by the conquest of Amalek (Ex. 17). The Lord taught Joshua to fight His battles, but the priest in God’s presence gave the word of command. Joshua then is a type of Christ, the captain of our salvation, and Eleazar of Him also as our great High Priest.

ML-07/07/1974

"William"

A MISSIONARY once came to work among the Indians that lived on the shores of Lake Winnipeg years ago.

One day they brought him a little Indian boy whose father and mother were both dead. The missionary took pity on the poor unwanted orphan, and for a number of years cared for him as his own son. He called him William.

The boy not only grew up tall and strong but heard many things about God and His Son Jesus. He learned to read and write and pray, and appeared quite happy with life at the mission station.

But one summer when the Indians gathered to trade furs, an Indian family from far away succeeded in coaxing the lad to return with them to their hunting grounds. Forgetting the kindness shown to him for so many years, and without a word of thanks or good-bye, he slipped away in the darkness with his newfound friends.

After many days they reached their hunting grounds and now the runaway found life was not so pleasant. The natives were often very cruel. Sometimes there was very little to eat. Many of the Indians around lived evil lives, and all worshipped the bad spirits. However, he thought that because he lived with them he must be like them. So he tried to forget all that the missionary had told him about the great, good God and His Son Jesus.

The Indians called him by a different name and he grew up to be like the rest of them. One of them sold him his daughter to be his wide and they had several children.

One winter he took his family where he thought there would be plenty of deer to shoot and animals to trap, and there he built a wigwam.

But strange to tell, though he hunted with all his Indian skill and perseverance, he could not find any game. Again and again he had to go back to the wigwam with nothing to eat.

“I will try once more”, he said to himself at last, “and if I cannot shoot a deer I will shoot myself.” All that day he hunted but could not find so much as an animal’s tracks.

On the third day he felt weak and all, and in despair said to himself, “It’s no use, I will die here.”

Loading his gun, and putting the muzzle to his head, he was about to pull the trigger, when a voice called, “William!”

It was not his Indian name, but the name that the missionary had given him when a boy. He dropped his gun and looked around, but could see no one.

Then he realized that the voice was in his heart and it seemed to say,

“William, do you not remember what the missionary told you about God? That He was kind, and that even if we went far away from Him He would forgive for Jesus’ sake? Why not pray to Him now?”

But he thought of how wicked he had been and said, “I cannot pray. It is too mean to pray now.”

Still the inner voice seemed to say, “It is worse to stay away.”

Then he seemed to hear his hungry wife and children crying for food in the wigwam. That made him decide. He knelt down in the snow and began to pray. He asked the Lord to forgive the poor Indian who had been so wicked and gone so far away from Him. He asked Him to help him in his troubles and give him food. Then he asked that as soon as the snow was gone he might again find the missionary and learn to live for God.

As he prayed he seemed to grow stronger. In his heart he felt that help was very near. He forgot that he was cold and hungry and weak. He took up his gun with a glad heart for he felt that God had indeed had mercy on a poor sinful Indian.

He had not gone far before he was able to shoot a large deer. He quickly made a fire and ate some of the meat. He then hung part of it high in a tree away from the wolves then taking as much as he could carry, he set off to his family in the wigwam, his heart filled with joy. In the days that followed they always had something to eat.

As soon as the snow had melted and the ice was gone from the lakes and rivers, he got his canoe ready and taking his wife and children with him headed for the faraway mission station, which he had left so long before. Here, to his great delight, he found the faithful old missionary again and told him the above story. Together they rejoiced over the wonderful grace of God and thanked Him for His neverending love and care for a poor Indian.

“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-07/14/1974

The New Drinking Fountain

An Australian, visiting his native village, noticed that the school children and mill workers had difficulty in finding good water to drink. There was a splendid spring on the hillside near, so he arranged to bear, the cost of bringing the water to the village, and erecting a fountain in a public place accessible to all. So the water was brought, the fountain was erected and presented, and the villagers had water enough and to spare.

The cheerful giver knew and loved the gospel, and in order to keep its message before all, he had chiseled on the granite stone upon which the fountain stood, the words: “Whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.” Rev. 22:17

Many read the message as they drew near to drink, and the Word of the Lord will not return unto Him void but it will accomplish that which He pleases.

On a summer day, a thirsty traveler passing through the village saw the fountain, but was in doubt if it were private property. Walking up, he read the inscription, and to one who stood hear he remarked, “Whosoever: that is a big word, but it means ME.” He put in his claim as one of the “whosoever” and drank till his thirst was quenched. And so may you drink the water of life. It has been brought near at infinite cost, the death of the Lord Jesus on the cross, but it is free to all. Make it yours.

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

“He that cometh to Me shall never hunger and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst.” John 6:35

ML-07/14/1974

Have Faith in God

A Scotch farmer had sprained his arm and went to see a Christian doctor about it. The doctor bound up his arm, and gave him some liniment and assured his patient that all would be well soon.

To this cheering news Sandy replied: “I’m pleased to hear you say so, and I know I am safe in your hands, doctor.”

“That’s strong faith, Sandy,” said his friend with a smile. “I wonder if you have so much faith in God about your soul, as you have in me for the healing of your arm?”

Sandy shook his head and slowly replied, “I’m nae sae sure aboot that, doctor.”

“Sit down a minute,” said the doctor, “till we see how that comes to be. Do you mean to tell me, Sandy, that you can trust the care of your health to me, a poor failing man, and consider yourself safe in my hands, and yet you cannot trust your soul in the same way to the eternal God, the maker of heaven and earth?”

“O no, surely not,” said Sandy. “It would be an awful thing to doubt God!”

“Yes, Sandy, an awful thing truly, for it makes God a liar.” Then he read Sandy two scriptures:

“In this was manifested the love of God toward us, because that God sent His only begotten Son into the world, that we might live through Him.”

“He that believeth on the Son of God hath the witness in himself: he that believeth not God hath made Him a liar; because he believeth not the record that God gave of His Son.” 1 John 4:9; 5:10.

That simple word opened Sandy’s eyes to the mistake of his life. He had not trusted himself as a sinner to the Saviour. But he did that night, and rejoiced in the knowledge of his salvation ever afterwards. Do you trust him?

ML-07/14/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 28:1-10

Joshua, the chosen to lead God’s people across the Jordan and into the promised land, is a type of the Lord Jesus, the Captain of our salvation. He leads us as those who are dead and risen with Him into those blessings with which we are blessed in heavenly places.

The Lord said of Joshua, “He shall stand before Eleazar the priest.” Eleazar is also a type of Christ in His heavenly priesthood. As our great High Priest, He appears in the presence of God for us. Thus the One who fights our battles and overcomes our enemies also maintains us before God by the power of the Holy Spirit. How blessed and privileged we, His people, are!

In this chapter the Lord tells Moses to remind the children of Israel of the sacrifices they were to offer to Him. These all speak of Christ who is the food of God, and so He speaks of “My offering, and My bread for My sacrifices made by fire, for a sweet savor unto Me.” We believe this looks on to the worship that will be rendered to God in the coming millennial scene when earth will no longer be a wilderness, but all shall be blessed under Messiah’s righteous reign.

It is lovely to read the instructions concerning the daily sacrifices, for the continual burnt offering which was to be offered up “day by day.” They all point to Him who is always fragrant to the heart of God—the blessed Lord Jesus Christ. The fire was never to go out upon the altar, but each morning and evening the lamb without spot was to be offered up to God. And if this is His desire we can learn a precious lesson here—to start the day with being occupied with Christ. Surely if we do the sweet fragrance of His name will remain with us. Then at night it is our privilege to end the day the same way.

The meat or meal offering tells of that blessed One who became Man, and though tried in every way, His spotless life was and ever shall be His Father’s joy and delight.

On the Sabbath day they were to offer two lambs, two meat offerings and two drink offerings in addition to the rest. Surely this speaks of a full Christ. In the millennial glory, of which the Sabbath speaks, Israel will enter into and enjoy the blessedness of these things. And not Israel only but those waves of blessing will go round the earth, so that the whole world will feel the effects of the work of Christ in grace and glory. We do not have to wait till then, for this is not our rest. We shall enter into and enjoy in a much richer and fuller way Christ and all He has won for us when we are at home with Him in the glory above.

Memory Verse: “Through His name whosoever believeth in Him shall receive remission of sins.” Acts 10:43

ML-07/14/1974

Saved From Wolves

Sally lived on a ranch in Colorado. She was just nine years old but she loved the Lord Jesus, and this story tells of the Lord’s care over her on one occasion.

While she was trying to bring home some calves late one afternoon, they led her astray and she lost her way in the forest.

Night came on a chilly November night. And yet with a strange calmness, she kept walking on and on till morning, not knowing where she was. At last through God’s mercy, she reached a farmer’s house, a long distance from her home and there she was safe.

They asked her many questions as to how she got through the night, and she answered:

“The wolves at times seemed close to my heels; but I remembered how my mother had taught me always to pray to the Lord Jesus when I was in danger. I did so pray, and then I knew the wolves couldn’t hurt me because Jesus wouldn’t let them.”

How sweet was that little girl’s faith in the Good Shepherd who early in life had saved her when she was lost in her sins, and saved her from the wolves when she was lost in the woods!

Memory Verse: “He that trusteth in the Lord, mercy shall compass him about.” Psalm 32:10

ML-07/21/1974

Only a Little Sparrow

Matthew 10:29

I am only a little sparrow,

A bird of low degree.

My life is of little value,

But there is One who cares for me.

He gave me a coat of feathers,

It is very plain I know;

With never 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 or purple

Perhaps it would make me vain.

And now that springtime is coming,

I will build me a little nest,

With many a chirp of pleasure,

In a spot I like the best.

I have no barn nor storehouse,

I neither sow nor reap.

God gives me a sparrow’s portion,

But never a bit to keep.

If my meal is sometimes scanty,

Close picking 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 we are found:

But our heavenly Father knoweth

When one of us falls to the ground.

Though small, we are never forgotten,

Though weak, we are never afraid.

For we know there is One that keepeth

The life of the creatures He made.

And I fold my wing at twilight,

Wherever I happen to be,

For the Father is always watching,

And no harm will come to me.

I’m only a little sparrow,

A bird of low degree;

But our heavenly Father loves us,

Do you know His love for thee?

“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-07/21/1974

Protection

A Christian girl who had been sick for some time was lying awake in her bed one night when the rest of the family were asleep. About midnight the door of her room opened and a robber came in. Her little lamp shone on both of them. The girl looked at the robber and the robber stared at the girl, evidently surprised to find her awake and yet perfectly calm in the face of such danger.

She did not cry or scream, but as he stood looking at her, she simply raised her hand, with her finger pointing toward heaven, and said,

“Man, do you know that God is looking at you?”

The rover waited a moment longer, then without saying a word, quietly turned and went out of the house.

God was the shield of that dear sick girl and we see how perfectly safe she was under His protection.

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

ML-07/21/1974

God's Mercy to a Pirate

Years ago a ship in the Indian Ocean was attacked by pirates. The captain and several of the crew were killed and the rest were bound in chains to be carried away captive. As the pirates’ captain went down to the cabin to see what treasures could be found before burning the ship, he heard a soft, low voice praying. Peering through the cabin door he saw a weeping mother with her arms around a little boy. These were the words the pirate heard:

“O God of all mercy, save the life of my dear child, if such be Thy holy will; but rather let him die now than fall into such evil hands, to be trained to a life of sin and shame, Let him die now if such be Thy will; but oh, let him not live to dishonor Thee and perish at last forever.”

The voice ceased, choked with sobs. And there stood the pirate with his own feelings. His thoughts flashed back to his own childhood. He had had a godly mother, Her prayers and her teaching rose up before him as God’s arrow of conviction entered his conscience. Instead of carrying our his murderous plans, he too sank to his knees and with heartbreaking agony cried out,

“God be merciful to me the sinner!”

Rising from his knees he assured the mother that no harm should come to her or her son. He then went on deck, unbound the captives and restored to them their ship. He then returned with his men to their own vessel and sailed away.

Shortly afterwards he surrendered himself to the British Government. But while awaiting trial he was stricken with fever and died. Before his death he made a full confession of the crimes of his past life and died in peace, trusting in the Lord Jesus, who had died for him upon the cross, and whose precious blood cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7

That was God’s answer to a mother’s prayer. That was how a wicked pirate heard the voice of the Good Shepherd and received eternal life as the free gift of God.

ML-07/21/1974

Light in the Valley

A blind Hindu boy, when dying, said joyfully: “I see! I see! I have light now. I see the King in His beauty. Tell the missionary the blind boy sees. I glory in Jesus.”

A wounded soldier, when asked if he were ready to depart, said, “O yes; my Savior, in whom I have long trusted, is with me now. The dark valley is lighted up by His smile.”

A young man, who had lately found Jesus, was laid upon his dying bed. A friend, who stood near him, asked, “Is it dark?” In speaking of it afterward, this friend said, “I shall never forget his reply to my questions. “No, no,” he exclaimed, “It’s light, it’s light, it’s all light!”

And thus, in the joy which this light gives, he entered into heaven.

“Mine eyes have seen Thy salvation, which Thou hast prepared before the face of all people; A light to lighten the Gentiles, and the glory of Thy people Israel.” Luke 2:30-32

ML-07/21/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 28:11-31

In the Song of Solomon we love to read: “Because of the savor of Thy good ointments thy name is as ointment poured forth.” The preciousness of Christ is now only known to the Church and to God the Father, but in the millennial day that sweet savor of His name will be spread around the earth and both Israel and the Gentiles will enter into its blessedness. Perhaps this is one reason why we have two lambs offered on the sabbath day—type of the rest to come.

Then we read: “And in the beginnings of your months ye shall offer a burnt offering unto the Lord; two young bullocks, and one ram, seven lambs ... ” with meat offerings and drink offerings besides.

The Jewish months began with the new moon. The new moon was marked by a feast; it was watched for on the hills and as soon as it was seen it was ushered in by the sound of the trumpet. “In the day of your gladness, and in your solemn days, and in the beginnings of your months, ye shall blow with the trumpets over your burnt offerings, and over the sacrifices of your peace offerings; that they may be to you for a memorial before your God.” Num. 10:10.

The waning way of the moon and its appearing again is a type of Israel. Their former light waned and disappeared but under God’s gracious hand it will appear again, faintly at first perhaps but they will shine in their full-orbed strength and splendor under Christ their glorious Messiah. Though they slighted, scorned and nailed Him to a tree, nevertheless in that day they will rejoice to worship Him and serve under His banner. After the long dark night of His absence and of their unbelief, He will come back to them again. Israel shall rejoice in the day of their gladness when, restored to their land, they will understand that these sacrifices and offerings only pointed on to Christ and His blessed work of redemption for them. Only in that future day these feasts will celebrate that work already accomplished. How wonderful to think that this earth so filled with violence and corruption will be cleansed and filled with worship and praise to God and Christ from grateful hearts here below.

We notice that a kid of the goats is also offered here for a sin offering. In the midst of their gladness Israel will ever be reminded that the One who is now reigning in Zion as their Defender and King, was first of all their Sin-bearer. They will acknowledge in that day: “All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” Isa. 53:6. As believers now it is our joy and privilege to ever remember that He died for us, and on the first day of the week to break the bread and drink the cup in remembrance of His dying love. “This do in remembrance of Me.”

My song shall be of Jesus,

His mercy crowns my days,

He fills my cup with blessings,

And tunes my heart to praise:

My song shall be of Jesus,

The precious Lamb of God,

Who gave Himself my ransom;

And bought me with His blood.

ML-07/21/1974

"I Loves to Pint Him Out"

A boatman named Joe was rowing a passenger across the river in his ferry boat. Suddenly he stopped, took of his ragged straw hat, and shading his eyes, looked earnestly at somebody on one of the sloops in the distance.

Then he cried out “Dat am de Captain!”

His passengers looked at the distant ship but could see nothing clearly.

“Don’t you see him, mister; dat strong, good-looking man leaning against de mast?”

“Perhaps I’ll see him when his ship gets a little nearer.”

“I want you to see the captain now!” said Joe.

“Who is the Captain?”

“De Captain?” said Joe with a look of surprise, “He am the man what saved me. I can’t miss seeing him while he am in sight.”

“How did he save you, Joe?”

“He strip off his coat and jumped into de ribber, and catch hole of dis chile wid his strong arm, just as he was sinking into the great depths, with the ropes tangled around his feet. Dat am the way he saved me,” said Joe with great feeling.

“You have not forgotten to be grateful, I see.”

“Grateful! Why I’d breave every breff I draw for him, if I could. I tole him I would work the rest of my days for him without pay. But he wouldn’t let me. So I stay as close to him as I can. He runs by here ‘bout every two weeks. So I allus watches for him; and I love to pint him out. It’s all this pore feller can do.”

And if that poor man felt so much gratitude to him who saved him from drowning by simply plunging into the water, how much gratitude do we owe to the blessed Savior, who died in agony upon the cross in order to save our souls from everlasting death?

“The Son of God who loved me and gave Himself for me.” Gal. 2:20

ML-07/28/1974

The Lion Sermon

One day while travelling through Arabia, John Gaynor, a wealthy English business man, was separated from his companions, and had to travel alone. As he walked along, to his great alarm he saw a huge, fierce-looking lion coming towards him. He had no gun and felt sure that the time had come for him to die, unless it should please God to protect and save him.

He kneeled down and prayed, asking God to mercifully save his life and deliver him from that hungry lion.

As he prayed, the lion walked close by him, went prowling around him several times, and then quietly turned round and went away, without doing the slightest injury to that man of prayer.

Now how can we account for this? Just in the same way in which Daniel accounted for his preservation from the lions in that den in Babylon long ago. God sent His angel who shut the lions’ mouths and they did not harm him.

On his return home, Mr. Gaynor gave a large sum of money to the church he attended on the condition that a sermon should be preached in that church every year in memory of God’s goodness in saving him from that lion.

And every year in the month of October, for many years now, the “lion sermon” has preached.

ML-07/28/1974

"I Am the Door"

In a town in northern Scotland some boys were in the habit of meeting together for prayer. One day a little girl named jane passed by and heard them sing. She stopped to listen, and thinking it was just an ordinary prayer meeting, decided to join them. She pulled the latch but it would not open; it was locked inside. She became very uneasy, as she thought,

“What if this were the door of heaven, and I outside?”

She went home, but could not sleep. Day after day she became more troubled at the thought of being shut out of heaven.

She went from one prayer meeting to another, still finding no rest. At last, one day reading in John’s Gospel, chapter 10, she came to the words, “I am the door.” V. 9.

She paused, and read the verse again and again. Here was the very door she was looking for! And wide open too. She entered in and found peace.

The Lord Jesus says: “I am the door: by Me if any man enter in he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture.” John 10:9

Room, room, still room;

Oh, enter, enter now!

ML-07/28/1974

Saved at Seven

A young girl, ten years old asked me one morning whether she might help me in the gospel service that evening in the hall. “Do you want to give a short address to the children?” I asked with a smile.

“Oh! No, sir, I could not do that, but I should so like to talk to a little girl afterward, and tell her how to find Jesus.”

“But have you found Him yourself, dear child?”

“Oh yes,” was her sweet answer, “I gave my heart to Jesus three years ago.” That was when she was only seven years old, you see, and now, at ten , she was quite an earnest little worker for the Master.

“Go and do thou likewise.” Luke 10:37

ML-07/28/1974

"Go, Chain and All!"

One who was anxious about his soul’s salvation was telling his troubles to an old Christian Scotchman.

“I feel like I’m bound with a chain, and I can’t seem to go to God,” he told old Scotty.

“Eh! Mon,” exclaimed Scotty, “then why don’t you go to Him chain and all!”

That was good advice. If you feel that the chain of your sins fetters you and that you cannot break it, bring the chain with you and cast yourself at the feet of Jesus. He can set you free, for He is both Savior and God.

He does not tell you to save yourself and then come to Him. He calls you to come to Him for the salvation you need. He does not tell you to cleanse yourself from your sins and make yourself fit for His holy eyes.

He has died and shed His blood so that He might cleanse us from all our sins and make us whiter than snow—fit for the glory of God’s presence.

“I, even I, am the Lord; and beside Me there is no savior ... . I, even I, and He that blotteth out thy transgressions for Mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.” Isaiah 43: 11, 25.

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

Memory Verse: “Behold, the Lord’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither His ear heavy, that it cannot hear.” Isa. 59:1

ML-07/28/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 29:1-11

The seventh month is peculiarly Israel’s and there is great activity. On the first day of the month “is a day of blowing of trumpets.” It celebrates the regathering of Israel back to their land.

“And it shall come to pass in that day, that the great trumpet shall be blown, and they shall come which were ready to perish in the land of Assyria, and the outcasts in the land of Egypt, and shall worship the Lord in the holy mount at Jerusalem.” Isa. 27:13

Surely the day is drawing near when the trumpet shall be blown, declaring that God again remembers Israel and His covenant with them. That trumpet will call the sons of Jacob to remember their God and turn to Him again. What a day of gladness that will be for the scattered outcasts of Israel.

The Spirit of God in the Psalms says of that day: “Sing ye joyously unto God our strength, shout aloud unto the God of Jacob; ... Blow the trumpet at the new moon, at the set time, on our feast day.” Psa. 81:1-3; J.N.D. Trans.

Then on the tenth day there was to be “a holy convocation.” They were to afflict their souls for it was the Day of Atonement. The Day of Atonement pictures Israel’s bitter sorrow when they eyes are opened to see that their Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ, has already come and they have rejected Him and nailed Him to the cross.

In that future day they will receive Him, but they will ask, “What are these wounds in Thine hands?” Then shall He answer, “Those with which I was wounded in the house of My friends!” Zech. 13:6. And there shall be a great mourning in Jerusalem. It also says, “They shall look upon Me whom they have pierced.” But immediately we read these blessed words. “In that day there shall be a fountain opened to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem for sin and uncleanness.” Zech. 13:1. And Israel will enter into the precious knowledge that He, Jesus, was wounded for their transgressions that He was bruised for their iniquities, and with His stripes they are healed. Their sins and iniquities He will remember no more. Blessed glorious time! But we who have trusted Christ know now that our sins are all forgiven and that there is nothing indeed between us and Himself but love. The sound of the trumpet for us will be the great gathering in the air to meet the Lord and to be with Him forever.

ML-07/28/1974

No Procrastinator Saved

As far as I know the Word of God gives no account of any procrastinator for being saved.

We find sinners of almost every type have been blessed. The vilest and the worst have been welcomed—the “Woman of the city,: the reviling robber, the blasphemer and persecutor, Saul. The chief of sinners is saved and with Christ in heaven. Millions have proved the truth of that sweet promise, “Him that cometh to Me I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:37.

The Gospels are full of the gracious acts of our Lord towards the sin-distressed and sin-defeated children of men. They hold out the bright certainty of a welcome to all who obey the invitation at once. But they hold out no hope whatever to the one who puts off until later the acceptance of the invitation.

As far as we know the man who said, “When I have a convenient season, I will call for thee,” never called.

Those who lightly uttered the words, “We will hear thee again of this matter,” are never said to have done so.

No, the sinner who quietly and coolly turns from God’s message of mercy, slighting salvation as a thing of little moment, is not likely to be saved. If the King or the President gave you an invitation to the palace or the capital today, would you say, “Oh, I’ll come next week or sometime later?”

If God, your Creator and your Judge invites you to come for mercy today, dare you say, “I prefer to come at another time, thank you.”?

You will never have a better opportunity of coming to Christ and of receiving His salvation. You may never have another opportunity of coming to Him. Death is approaching—the day of judgment draws nearer—Christ is coming for His own. The door of grace will be closed against all who have slighted His mercy and spurned His love. Do not trifle with the gospel message. Seize the opportunity to be saved NOW. Flee to Christ—the sinners only refuge—at once.

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

ML-07/28/1974

How the Lost Sheep Was Found

WHEN Mr. Darby was a young man serving the Lord he was asked to go and see a poor Irish boy who was dying up in the wild hill country.

As he first entered the miserable cabin he saw no sign of life, but then an old woman, crouching bore the peat fire, rose up and courteously offered him the stool she was sitting on. He thanked her, but passing on to the corner of the room he discovered the poor suffering boy lying on a heap of straw, covered with his own ragged clothing and apparently in the last stages of tuberculosis.

On Mr. Darby’s approach he opened his eyes and stared at his visitor with a look of wonder and fright. J. N. D. told him in a quiet way why he had come and asked him a few simple questions about his hope of salvation. The boy made no reply, in fact he seemed utterly unable to grasp the meaning of his words. However, as Mr. Darby spoke to him in his kind and loving way, he uttered a few words saying he had heard something of God and future judgment, but he had never been taught to read. He knew absolutely nothing of the Scriptures nor the way of salvation as revealed in the gospel.

Mr. Darby was struck with dismay, for here was a boy with a soul, on the verge of eternity, which must be saved or lost forever. J. N. D. could see that the hand of death was close upon the lad, and not a moment was to be lost; but what could he do? How was he to begin to teach him the way of life?

Never before had Mr. Darby felt such a sinking feeling. He could do nothing, but on the other hand God could do all. So silently he prayed, beseeching God for Christ’s sake to open up a way by His Spirit to set forth the glad tidings so that the light might shine into this poor boy’s darkened soul.

The boy seemed to sense the feeling of compassion in J. N. D.'s gaze and softened toward him.

“My poor boy,” J. N. D. began, “you are very sick; I feel for you a great deal.”

“Yes, I have had a bad cold,” he said. “The cough takes away my breath and hurts me greatly.”

“How did you catch it?”

“Ah! It was about this time last year when one of the sheep went astray. When my father counted the sheep that night there was one missing and he sent me to look for it.”

“No doubt you felt the change from the warmth of the fire to the cold mountain blast.”

“Oh, that I did. There was snow on the ground and the wind pierced me through; but I didn’t mind as I was so anxious to find Father’s sheep.”

“And did you find it?” asked J. N. D. with increasing interest.

“Oh yes. I had a long weary way to go but I didn’t stop until I found it.”

“And how did you get it home? Was it willing to follow you back?”

“Well, I did not like to trust it and besides it was dead beat and tired, so I laid it on my shoulders and carried it home that way.”

“And were they not all glad to see you when you returned with the sheep?”

“Sure enough they were. Father and Mother, and the people all around came in the next morning, for the neighbors are mighty kind to each other. They were sorry to hear that I was kept out the whole dark night. It was morning before I got home, and the end of it was I caught this cold. Mother says I will never get better now, but God knows best; anyways, I did my best to save the sheep.”

“Wonderful!” thought Mr. Darby. “Here is the whole gospel story. The sheep is lost; the father sends the son to seek it and bring it back. The son goes willingly, suffers all without complaining, and in the end sacrifices his life to find the sheep. He carries it home on his shoulders and rejoices with his friends and neighbors over the sheep once lost but found again.”

J. N. D.'s prayer was answered and by the grace of God he was able to explain to the dying boy the plan of salvation, making use of his own simple story. He read to him the story of the lost sheep in Luke’s Gospel chapter 15 and the boy perceived the likeness. He followed with deep interest as J. N. D. explained to him that he himself was the lost sheep, and the Lord Jesus the Good Shepherd was sent by God the Father to seek him. The Son left all the joys of the Father’s heavenly glory to come down and search for him and other lost ones like himself. Just as the poor boy had borne the freezing snowstorm and piercing wind, so the blessed Saviour has endured the fierce contradiction of sinners against Himself, and the bitter judgment of a holy and righteous God, without uttering one word of complaint. At last He laid down His precious life that we might be rescued from perishing and brought to our everlasting home. Nor will He trust His beloved ones, when rescued, to tread the perilous path of life alone, but He bears them on His shoulders, rejoicing, to the heavenly fold.

The poor sick lad seemed to drink it in. He understood and received it all. He only lasted a few days after that, and there was no time to read or expound to him any other portion of Scripture. He coughed much and slumbered heavily at times, but whenever he was able to think and listen, the story of the lost sheep in Luke 15 satisfied and cheered him.

He accepted Christ as his Saviour, and then earnestly prayed to be carried home, like the lost sheep, in the heavenly Saviour’s arms. He passed away humbly, peacefully, rejoicing and triumphant, with the name of “Jesus, my Saviour and my Shepherd” the last words upon his lips.

“The Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost.” Luke 19:10.

“All we like sheep have gone astray; we have turned every one to his own way; and the Lord hath laid on Him the iniquity of us all.” Isa. 53.6.

ML-08/04/1974

The Indians' Owl

LONG AGO before the coming of the white man, only the Indians roamed this country. They lived in tribes and often these tribes would fight each other.

One of these tribes, the Choc-wa-wos, always took a strange-looking thing along with them when they went on the warpath. This strange-looking thing was a stuffed owl. They believed the owl would watch over them and keep their fighting men safe from harm.

They took good care of their stuffed owl, smoothed out his feathers and even put food before him, for they expected him to take care of them. They always kept him fang in the direction they were going, for they thought that as long as his face was pointing forward and his feathers were unruffled, the path ahead was safe.

A stuffed owl on a journey would not be so bad if it worked, but the truth is, boys and girls, that it didn’t work, for so often these Indians who trusted in the owl were attacked and many were killed and wounded.

How thankful we can be that boys and girls have someone better than a stuffed owl to trust and keep them along the dangerous path of life. They have a great Saviour to trust in — One who can truly save them not merely from their enemies but from their worst of foes — the judgment against their sins.

Those who put their trust in Jesus will find that He goes before them and all they have to do is to follow closely “in His steps,” for He guides them, fights their battles, overcomes all their enemies and will bring them safely home to heaven.

Unlike the Indian’s lifeless owl, the Lord Jesus lives, and lives forever. What a wonderful Saviour He is. Why not trust Him now?

Memory Verse: “THEIR SINS AND INIQUITIES WILL I REMEMBER NO MORE.” Hebrews 8:12

ML-08/04/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 29:12-40

AT THESE feasts of the Lord Israel called to remembrance His ways of grace with them on certain special occasions in their history. As they gathered together and offered their offerings they were reminded of their relationship to God, to whom they owed all their blessings.

On the fifteenth day of the seventh month, after the gathering in of the vintage, was the Feast of Tabernacles which celebrates Israel’s being brought into blessing in the millennial day.

“And ye shall offer a burnt offering, a sacrifice made by fire, of a sweet savor unto the Lord; thirteen young bullocks, two rams, and fourteen rams....” There were other offerings besides.

Numbers are used in Scripture as symbols and seven speaks of divine perfection and completeness. Two sevens or fourteen would express that perfection in the fullest way, while thirteen would be something short of that.

Thus the work of Christ for the blessing of earth could not be more divinely perfect, as expressed in the fourteen lambs. In the very scene where He was cast out and slain there will be the fullest display of His glory as a result of His redemptive work upon the cross. Such blessing will hitherto have been unheard of nor thought of by man.

“For since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, besides Thee, what He hath prepared for him that waiteth for Him.” Isa. 64:4.

“For the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the Lord, as the waters cover the sea.” Hab. 2:14.

Still the appreciation of Christ on the part of man, will not be divinely perfect and there will be decline as the years go by. We notice that while they offered thirteen bullocks the first day, on the second day they were to offer twelve, on the third day eleven, one less each day until we come to the seventh day when they offered seven bullocks.

The bullock speaks of the largest measure of apprehension of Christ, and so at the beginning of the millennium there will be joy, worship and thanksgiving to Christ on a vast scale. But as time goes by this measure of appreciation for what He has done will decline. Such is the natural heart of man, even under the most favored circumstances.

We know there will be sin in the millennium, but it will be more the exception than the rule. There will be no tempter then to lead men into sin, but if one sins he will be dealt with in immediate judgment. But devotion to Christ will wane, until at the end of the millennial age when Satan is loosed for a little season, men will turn against God and Christ and follow Satan, in spite of all the blessings enjoyed for a thousand years. It will be the last trial of man. Final judgment will overtake the rebellious myriads.

On the eighth day only one bullock was offered. Here it seems we are beyond Israel and earthly perfection. In the heavenly scene where Christ will be adored and worshiped by all, there will be no decline, but the joy and praise of the heavenly saints will only deepen and grow in fervor as eternity rolls on.

ML-08/04/1974

Psalm 19

THE HEAVENS declare the glory of God; and the firmament showeth His handiwork.

Day unto day uttereth speech, and night unto night showeth knowledge.

There is no speech nor language, where their voice is not heard.

Their line is gone out through all the earth, and their words to the end of the world.

The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the Lord is sure, making wise the simple.

The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes.

The fear of the Lord is clean, enduring forever: the judgments of the Lord are true and righteous altogether.

More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb.

Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward.

Memory Verse: “BLESSED ARE ALL THEY THAT PUT THEIR TRUST IN HIM.” Psalm 2:12.

ML-08/11/1974

The Robber's Cave

HENRY and his father were walking along a lonely road one night. They had to pass a large rock with a cave in it, known as “The Robber’s Cave.” It was said that many years before, robbers would hide themselves there and spring out to rob travelers as they passed along. Very few people cared to pass that way after dark.

As Henry and his father journeyed along, Henry asked if there would be any danger in passing the Robber’s Cave.

“Not a bit, my boy,” said his father who was a Christian. “I do not think there are any robbers here now and if there were, God would preserve us from harm.”

Henry said very little but he held his father’s hand tightly as they passed the cave.

They had hardly turned the corner of the road when a footstep was heard behind and as Henry looked around he saw a rough-looking man following them.

“Oh, father, here is one of the robbers coming after us,” said Henry.

His father smiled and quietly said, “God will take care of us, Henry,” and at the same time he lifted his heart to the Lord in prayer for preservation, if the man meant to harm them.

In a short time the man had overtaken them but before he had time to speak, Henry’s father crossed over to the other side of the road where the man walked, and taking out his wallet, gave him a gospel tract, saying, “I hope you will read this when you have time.”

The man held out his hand and as he took the tract he murmured something about wanting bread.

“I shall be glad to share what I have with you,” said Henry’s father, taking out his purse, which the man eyed with a suspicious look. The next moment, several coins fell into the man’s hand and the father said, “The gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

The rough-looking man touched his cap and said, “Thank you, sir!” and sat down by the roadside. Henry and his father went on, the boy now and then looking around to see if the man followed. They soon reached home safely and thanked the Lord for His protecting care.

Many years passed away and Henry was a tall young man. He had put his trust in the Lord Jesus and diligently sought to tell others about the Saviour. He worked among the poor and one day while visiting he entered a cottage where a sickly-looking man sat by the fireside.

“Come and sit down, sir,” said the man, “I am always thankful to get a tract, especially now that I am unable to go out. It was a gospel tract that by God’s blessing, led me to the Saviour and changed my life.”

There was something about the man that at once arrested Henry’s attention. He had seen that face bore but he could not think where it was. A few more sentences solved the mystery and sent the tears down the cheeks of both of them.

“I was a robber,” said the man in a low voice; “except for God’s mercy, I might have been a murderer. I meant to rob a gentleman who walked along a country road with a little boy one night, but by the means of a gospel tract which he gave me, I was unable to do it, and God used that tract to the sang of my soul.”

Henry seized the trembling hand of the repentant and converted robber, now a humble follower of Christ and said, “I am that boy; my father gave you that tract and he will praise God from his heart for His saving grace to you.”

The old robber was a rich trophy of grace and in his own humble sphere shone for Christ. Dear rear, the same grace that met and saved that robber, is now ready to save you.

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

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

ML-08/11/1974

Jimmy's Teddy Bear

LITTLE JIMMIE liked to take his teddy bear to bed with him each night. One day he noticed the bear’s insides were falling out. Mother would have to sew up the bear.

“Mommy,” he said. “My teddy bear is sick. If you sew him up he will be all better.”

Mother did sew up the bear, and then he was “all better.” Jimmie went away very pleased.

A teddy bear can soon be fixed, but not so sinful boys and girls. There is nothing we or Mother or anyone else can do to make ourselves better in God’s sight. Mother might sew up Jimmie’s teddy but after a while he would likely come apart somewhere else. And so it is with us. We all have such black hearts, full of bad thoughts which if allowed to stay come out in all kinds of sin. If we try to make ourselves better we find we get only worse instead. God says all our righteousnesses are as “filthy rags.”

There is only one thing that can take away sins and make us pure and white in God’s sight, and that is the blood of Jesus.

“The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7. Have your sins been washed away in His precious blood?

ML-08/11/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 30:1-31:2

THIS CHAPTER has to do with I vows. Israel were not told to make vows but the Lord said that if a man made a vow to the Lord, he must not break his word; he must do whatever he vowed to do. If a woman made a vow to the Lord, or promised to do anything, if her father or her husband said he did not approve of her vow, the Lord would forgive her, because it was right for a woman to obey her father or her husband. However, if a woman, who was a widow, made a vow, she must keep it.

“If a man vow a vow unto the Lord,... he shall not break his word.” How often men fail to keep a promise! But there is One who stands out above all others here, One who never went back on His promises. He will fulfill every word that He has spoken, for “All the promises of God in Him are yea and in Him Amen, unto the glory of God by us.” Thus we can trust His word without fear.

“If a woman also vow a vow unto the Lord.” Here two different cases are taken up. If she had a husband and he heard her vow and held his peace then her vow must stand and she must bear the responsibility of her vow. But if her husband heard and disallowed her vow which she foolishly made then her vow would be of none effect, and the Lord would forgive her.

We have a picture here of Israel and the Lord. How many foolish vows and promises they made in which they were not able to keep. They said, All that the Lord hath spoken will we do. In one way the Lord in His government has allowed them to prove the folly of their ways. Israel even today is suffering from the foolish vows they made long ago but which they were unable to keep. However the Lord Jesus, that precious Saviour, has taken upon Himself the full responsibility of fulfilling those vows. In the coming day He will act in grace towards Israel and all that stood against them as a result of failure to keep their promises will be blotted out forever.

Man is ever ready to boast of his strength, not being aware of his weakness. But we who are saved have a new nature and without a vow at all, this new nature delights in pleasing the Lord. When we walk in the Spirit we do please Him and not in any other way.

In the next chapter the Lord said to Moses, “Avenge the children of Israel of the Midianites: afterward shalt thou be gathered unto thy people.” That wicked man, Balaam, was not allowed to curse the people of God; but he accomplished his purpose in another way. He taught the people of Moab to corrupt the children of Israel who followed them in their idolatrous practices. The hand of the Lord was heavy upon Israel for their sin and 24,000 died from the plague.

But how gracious God was to Moses before he died. He might have waited to avenge the Midianites until after His dear servant passed away; but no, He thought of the painful burden that must have weighed on Moses’ heart as a result of this sad blot on Israel’s history. And He so ordered that Moses was enabled to remove this disgrace. This was putting great honor upon Moses. God allowed him to show by his last act on earth, how entirely his heart desired to have God honored. These Midianites, who had brought in such sorrow, were to be destroyed by him before he died.

ML-08/11/1974

Hannah's Call

All alone in the evening gray,

Sick and dying, old Hannah lay.

Through the broken pane the cold wind swept;

Poor Hannah shivered, and moaned, and wept.

But it was not cold, and it was not pain,

That made her shiver and moan again.

She did not say “My pain is sore,”

But, “Where shall I be when all is o’er?”

Poor Hannah remembered the years gone by,

And she said, “A sinner — a sinner am I!

All black and fearful the sins appear

That I had forgotten for many a year;

And thousands, thousands, they come to mind —

There is hell before and sin behind.

The Lord is holy, and just, and true,

And what He has said He will surely do.

He has for sin an awful doom

A lake of fire beyond the tomb;

And my soul is black with the sins of years;

They cannot be washed away with tears.

And sure it is vain to pray and cry;

He cannot hear such a sinner as I.

I am going — going— to stand alone

Before the Lord on His judgment throne!”

Bright and glad as the stars came out,

With many a laugh and many a shout,

Jack and Bill in the garden played.

And they heeded not the noise they made,

But the neighbor calling, said, “Children dear,

A woman is sick in that house so near,

There, where the broken pane you see,

She is lying as ill as she can be;

She soon must die, and you see ’tis best

You should be still and let her rest.”

Then in a moment they both were still,

For tender hearts had both Jack and Bill,

And they sat and looked at the casement lone.

‘Till the stars shone bright, and the day was gone.

Then Jack said, “Bill, she will go to heaven

If she has had her sins forgiven.

I learned at Sunday school, when Jesus died

The door of heaven was opened wide

Because He was punished Himself for sin,

So now if we die we can all go in.

Of our sins there will not a word be said,

For Jesus Christ was punished instead:

And if she believes He loves her so,

Beyond the stars her soul will go.

He will lead her in through the golden door,

And she will be happy forevermore.”

Then Bill said, “Jack, that is all quite true—

But does she know it as well as you?

What Jesus did we have both been taught,

But some know this, and some do not.

Maybe, Jack, she has never known

What it is that the Lord for her has done!”

Then Jack said, “If you would help me,

Bill, I would climb up to the window sill,

And through the hole I would call and say,

‘Jesus washes our sins away.’ "

The neighbor said when her work was done,

“It may be Hannah is all alone,

And, oh! it’s an awful thing to lie.

Too ill to live, and afraid to die,

So just to sit with her I will go,

But how to help her I do not know.”

So the neighbor went, and she heard no moan,

And she thought, “Poor Hannah is dead and gone.”

She lighted the candle with fear and dread,

And stopped to see if Hannah was dead.

But there she lay with her face so bright!

It shone with glory and not with light,

And she said, “Oh, neighbor, the Lord is good;

He washed me white in His precious blood!

My sins are gone from before His face,

And He has prepared a glorious place,

Where those He loves with Himself shall be,

And to that sweet home He is calling me.

Oh, neighbor, here in the dark I lay,

I felt so guilty, I could not pray;

And all my sins like a mountain stood

Before the terrible face of God.

Then all in a moment, sweet and clear,

A voice spoke loud, though none was near,

Like an angel speaking, I heard it say,

‘Jesus washes our sins away!’

And while I thought, do my ears tell true?

It said, ‘Poor lady, He died for you!”

And then did the word come sweet and low

That I had forgotten long ago;

I once heard it tell in the years gone by,

How Jesus came on the cross to die,

And there He hung in the darkness dread,

With a crown of thorns on His holy head,

And some old words came back to me,

He bore our sins on the cursed tree.’

Yes, it was true that mine He bore,

So the guilt is gone, and the judgment o’er;

And more than that, He died for me,

What must the love of Jesus be!

He in His home of glory waits

To see me enter the golden gates;

While I lay moaning in black despair,

His heart was longing to have me there,

And oh! for the welcome I soon shall know!

No words can tell how I long to go.”

Memory Verse: “INCLINE YOUR EAR, AND COME UNTO ME: HEAR, AND YOUR SOUL SHALL LIVE.” Isa. 55:3.

ML-08/18/1974

Blotted Out

“I don’t want God to write my sins in His Book,” sobbed little Jerry as he tossed on his bed one dark night. His father heard his sobs and hastened into the room to comfort him.

His father knew but little of the gospel, but he remembered a verse which he had heard repeated again and again. Getting a Bible he found it in Isaiah 43: “I, even I, am He that blotteth out thy transgressions for Mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.”

Again and again he read it over to Jerry. Poor Jerry got comfort from the word of God. But not only so, his father was brought to see his need of salvation and to trust in Christ as his Saviour as well.

How many there are who do not want God to write their sins in His book, but they are written there nevertheless. And if they do not repent, but go on and die in their sins, every one of them will come out when the books are opened at the great white throne.

Now there is a Saviour;

Then there will be a Judge.

Now there is a shelter in Jesus;

Then no place of refuge will be found.

Now the blood of Christ is the ransom;

Then a great ransom cannot diver thee.

Flee, dear reader, from the wrath to come.

The Judge stands at the door.

ML-08/18/1974

Summer Flowers

GOD CARES for the flowers and He has made them all to bloom. He paints the lily of the fields Perfumes each lily bell....

He makes the woods bright with bluebells and antimonies, and the meadows with daisies and buttercups.

God cares for the flowers. But much more He cares for those who trust in Him. He gave His dear Son to die for us, and will freely give us all that is for our good.

“Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: and yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.

“Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field,... shall He not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?” Matt. 6:28-30.

ML-08/18/1974

Little Ones May Come

Children of every age

May come to Christ today;

May have their sins forgiven

He is the only way.

To bring us nigh to God

His precious blood was given:

Through Him you now may happy be,

Through Him may enter heaven.

Yes! He has died for all,

You may the blessing know;

Come then at once, just as you are;

He’ll wash you white as snow.

ML-08/18/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 31:3-54

HOW OFTEN had Israel tried the patience of Moses, though he was the meekest man in all the earth. But he had failed once in this very thing and this prevented him from crossing the Jordan. Still God, whose great servant he was, gives him the privilege of vindicating His glory, and this was sweeter to Moses and more honoring to God than entering the promised land.

The Lord said to Moses, “Avenge the children of Israel of the Midnites: afterward thou shalt be gathered unto thy people.” Apparently Moab and Midian were linked tether and Balak was king over both. They had corrupted Israel under Balaam’s direction, and this was a great shame to Moses. How lovely to read the response of Moses here. He says, “Arm some of yourselves unto the war,... and avenge the Lord of Midian.” This was indeed excellent. The Lord was thinking of. His people, and now they would think of Him. In the very thing that they had failed and so dishonored Him they would now have the privilege of restoring His honor and clearing both His name and themselves of this blot. How gracious Gad is in His ways with His own!

Moses chose a thousand men out of each tribe so that all might share in the action. It was not a large army; all Israel did not go up for it was not to be a show of strength lest Israel might take credit for the victory. The battle was the Lord’s and the outcome was sure.

Furthermore they were not led by Joshua as their captain, but by Eleazar the priest who carried the holy instruments and the trumpets to blow, for this was truly a “holy” war. So they fought against Midian and the Lord gave them a great victory, for they slew all the men and the five kings of Midian.

And they took the children and the cattle, and their goods, but they burnt all their cities and destroyed their fine castles. Then they returned with all their spoils to the camp, and Moses and Eleazar went to meet them. Moses was angry with the officers because they had brought some of the women back alive. And Eleazar said that none of the spoils might be brought into the camp until they had passed through the fire, and had been purified with the water of separation.

Then they divided all the spoils into two parts and they gave one part to the people that remained behind, and the other part to those who had gone to the battle. Moses also took a tribute for the Lord of the share of the men of war and gave it to Eleazar for a heave offering to the Lord. Nor were the Levites forgotten for Moses took a tribute from the children of Israel and gave it to them.

Then the officers came to Moses and said, We have counted our men, and there is not a single one killed in battle. So we have brought an offering to the Lord of that which we took for ourselves from the Midianites. And Moses took their offering of gold and jewels and laid it up in the tabernacle before the Lord for a memorial for the children of Israel.

If we as Christians make friends with the world sooner or later there will be war. We are told to be at peace with all men, as far as it is possible without compromising the Lord’s honor, but we are to have no relations with the world. If we are snared by its temptations we shall find out that we have been deceived and that the world is really our enemy. But the Lord will give victory over the world when we treat it this way. We belong to Christ whom the world crucified and God will have His people entirely separate from its systems and pleasures.

ML-08/18/1974

"Ears to Hear"

LEE DIDN’T WANT religion; it was all right for those that did. But he himself had a natural contempt for the gospel.

Still he didn’t want others to think he was a heathen and one day when an evangelist urged him to come to the gospel meeting he promised he would. He would keep his promise, but he determined not to listen.

So that evening Lee sat in the gospel meeting. The little congregation sang the lovely hymn, “’Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus,” and Lee even admitted to himself that he enjoyed the singing.

But when the evangelist began to speak, at once Lee poked his fingers into his ears. He wasn’t going to listen to any of the preacher’s stories.

Glancing up at the walls he saw a text in large letters: “Come now, let us reason together, saith the Lord; though your sins...” Lee read no further, but closing his eyes he pushed his fingers farther into his ears, and scuffled his feet.

The speaker noticed Lee’s ill behavior and silently prayed, asking the Lord to speak to Lee’s heart and give him to see his need of the Saviour.

As Lee sat with his eyes and ears closed a fly came buzzing around and landed on a bald spot on his head. Lee opened his eyes and taking his finger from one ear he took a swing at the fly. Just at that moment his eyes met the gaze of the evangelist and he heard the words, “Who hath ears to hear, let him hear” (Matt. 13:43).

At once Lee’s finger went back into his ear again, but the Word had entered, and instead of closing his eyes he kept them fixed on the speaker. Then the pesky fly returned and settled on his bald spot again. Out came Lee’s finger again in a vain attempt to swat the fly, but at that moment he heard again, “Who hath ears to hear, let him hear.”

Lee didn’t plug his ears this time but listened intently. The speaker told the story of the man who sowed good seed in his field, but then an enemy came along and sowed bad seed in the same field. The owner let the good and the bad grow together until the harvest Then the good grain was gathered into the granary and the bad was burned up.

The fly came back again but Lee paid no attention to it. As he listened to the Word, God by His Spirit spoke to his heart. He knew he was not among the good seed; he felt he was among the bad. But he learned that Jesus, the Son of God, came to the world to die for sinners — for Lee himself. How real and wonderful it became to him. It was all true. God loved him; Jesus died for him. Lee believed and was saved.

“Hear, and your soul shall live.” Isa. 55:3.

“If thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God path raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.” Rom. 10:9.

ML-08/25/1974

How Sam Was Changed

SAM was a negro boy, who, with some refugees, had been taken in by a missionary when war broke out between rival tribes. The missionary saw that Sam was a very intelligent boy; therefore he chose him to carry messages and to do other little jobs. But the missionary was soon warned by others to be careful, for Sam was a thief. It was not long before he found some of his things missing, and quite valuable ones, too. The missionary did not know what to do. During the Bible hours Sam sat there with a look of indifference, not paying any attention.

The missionary prayed earnestly for Sam. Then one day he called him and said to him, “I know you are a very clever boy; I want you to help me.” Sam looked very pleased.

The missionary continued: “I have lost quite a few things and I want you to find them and also find the one who has taken them.”

The next day Sam brought one article and said, “I have found this, but I have not found the one who has taken it.” The following day he brought something else and said the same words. Then he added, “How can one get forgiveness?”

The missionary replied: “Do you not know, that if we confess our sins, God is willing to forgive us because the Lord Jesus has died for our sins on the cross?”

Then he added: “Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and He will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for He will abundantly pardon.” Isa. 55:7.

The missionary also quoted to Sam Romans 6:23: “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.”

The following day Sam came to his master with his arm full of valuables and asked him to see whether he had got all his missing things back. Then Sam said with tears: “Forgive me, I am the thief.” The missionary gladly forgave him and both knelt down to ask the forgiveness of God. There and then Sam gave his heart to the Lord Jesus. From then on not another thing was missing and Sam did his work with singing. For him old things had passed away, and behold, all things had become new. His load of guilt was gone, for his sins were all washed away in the blood of Jesus; he was now a new creature in Christ. (2 Cor. 5:17.)

When Sam grew up he became a missionary to his own people, and it was his delight to go about telling what great things the Lord had done for him.

Memory Verse: “VERILY, VERILY, I SAY UNTO YOU, HE THAT BELIEVETH ON ME HATH EVERLASTING LIFE.” John 6:47.

ML-08/25/1974

Good for Nothing

A Sunday school teacher took out his watch and asked what it was for.

“To tell the time with,” called out several of the children.

“But suppose it won’t keep time, and cannot be made to keep time, what is it good for?”

“It’s good for nothing!” they replied.

He then took out a pencil and asked what it was good for.

“To write with,” replied the children.

“But suppose the lead were out of it, and it would not write, what is it good for then?”

“It’s good for nothing!” they replied.

Next he produced his penknife and held it up.

“What is this used for?” he asked. “To cut with,” replied the children, thoroughly interested.

“But suppose it had no blade and only a handle, what would it be good for then?”

“It would be good for nothing,” replied the children again.

“So you see, children, a watch, and a pencil, and a knife are good for nothing unless they can each do the thing for which they were made. But now what is a boy or girl made for?”

The children were silent.

“There is a beautiful answer to that question which boys and girls in Scotland learn,” he said. “It runs: ‘The chief end of man is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.’ That is what boys and girls are made for.”

The children were listening very attentively.

“But if a boy or girl does not do the very thing for which she or he was made, what is that child good for.”

“Good for nothing!”

It came from their lips quite spontaneously.

“Good for nothing,” repeated the teacher solemnly. “I hope none of you will be like that. Good for nothing. How sad and how terrible! But if you will yield your young hearts to Christ your Saviour, He will make you good for something.”

The children separated at the close without the unusual noise. The subject had impressed them all. Some of them remember it to this day, and their daily prayer is that they may fulfill God’s purpose in their lives.

ML-08/25/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 32

REUBEN and Gad had a great many cattle and when they saw the extent of the pasture lands which had been taken on the east side of the Jordan, they desired that the land of Gilead and Bashan be given them as their inheritance, and not to go over Jordan with the rest. This was not part of Canaan, for Canaan lay on the other side of Joan which formed its natural boundary.

Moses was grieved at their request and rebuked Reuben and Gad for wanting to separate themselves from Israel’s one common effort to possess the promised land, instead of that which was nearest to the wilderness and nearest to Egypt as well. He spoke to them very gravely saying, Why do you wish to settle here, and to let your brethren go over Jordan and have all the fighting. Take care that your example does not discourage the people of the Lord. He reminded them of what happened to their fathers at Kadesh-Barnea, when they despised the pleasant land. Take care, he said, that your hearts are not turning back from following the Lord; for if you do He will surely leave you in the wilderness and you will be the cause of destroying all these people.

However, the two tribes persisted in their request, saying, We will build sheepfolds for our cattle, and cities for our wives and children. Then we will go over armed before Israel and will fight like the rest until all the tribes have got their possessions. After that we will come back here to our wives and children. Moses yielded to their request and gave them an inheritance along with half the tribe of Manasseh on the east side of the Jordan.

But it was really want of faith on the part of these two and a half tribes for they suffered for it afterwards. However, God allowed it to show how ready we are to be content with only half a blessing and that what we choose for ourselves in our selfishness is nothing compared to what God has prepared for us.

Gilead was a rich and beautiful country, but it was not protected by the Jordan and there were enemy lands not far off. Apparently these two and a half tribes got their possessions first but later on in their history they were first to be carried away by the kings of Assyria. How much better for them to have accepted the Lord’s choice.

We can learn very wholesome lessons here. Sometimes if we insist on having something, God may allow us to have it, even though it may not be best for us. May we have grace to say, “If it be Thy will,” when we make requests to Him. He knows what is best for us.

He knows, He loves, He cares—

Nothing this truth can dim;

He does the very best for those

Who leave the choice with Him.

Canaan is for us the heavenly places and Christians are a heavenly people — pilgrims and strangers on the earth. The two and a half tribes here picture for us those who, as we read in Hebrews 4:1, “a promise being left of entering into His rest, seem to have come short of it.”

How easy it is for us to cling to possessions down here, and God in His providence does give us blessings “on this side Jordan,” as it were. But those spiritual blessings with which God has blessed us in the heavenlies in Christ — beyond Jordan — are eternally secure and shall never be taken from us, nor we from them. How much better to wait to possess that heavenly land and share it with Christ while we enjoy it by faith even now.

ML-08/25/1974

Grandpa's Sale

IT WAS a hot July afternoon and Grandpa Brown was sitting on the porch of the old farm home. His working days were over but he loved to look out over the meadows and watch the men working in the harvest field, and the cattle grazing on the hillside.

Then he caught sight of a car coming down the lane in a whirl of dust and soon a young fellow stepped out and greeted him.

“Hi there, old-timer,” he called. “I’m Norman Grant.” and sitting down on the top step of the porch he took off his hat and began mopping his brow. Charlie Brown could see that he looked none too prosperous with his threadbare suit and battered brief case.

“Go in and ask Aunt Martha to make some lemonade, Harry,” said Grandpa to his young grandson, and soon they were chatting over the cooling drink.

Then their guest remembered why he had come and opening his brief case he began a well-memorized sales talk. The first few words startled Grandpa.

“Mr. Brown, it behooves a man to look to the future and to face the inevitable. As hard as it may seem to us, life is but a flickering light that soon fades into eternity.”

“Must be an insurance salesman,” thought Charlie; “or maybe he sells tombstones.”

The sales talk went on: “It is well for all mankind to take steps of precaution against that day. The years creep up on us with incredible speed; as we move on toward that culmination of life’s journey, we may gain a great deal of satisfaction from adequate preparation. My firm takes great pains in helping mankind to attain to this end.”

Charlie thought: “Selling grave plots; that’s what he’s doing!”

The sales talk went on. “During the history of mankind there has been no greater source of security than the product I’m about to show you.” Then Norman Grant put his hands into his brief case and withdrew something. Charlie was astonished for in the salesman’s hand was a Bible.

Still the sales talk pressed on. “This Book has been a source of comfort to the sick, the sad, and the dying; and our firm has made every effort to do justice to the divine contents.”

Old Charlie wondered into what category he fell — sick, sad, or dying? Just at that moment he didn’t feel as if he were in any one of the three.

“Note the binding,” the young man went on. “Sewed with the finest linen... the leather cover was imported... deep rich gold and red page edges... maps printed in nine different colors.... Mr. Brown, you might travel the world over and never find a Bible like this. What a splendid addition to your home! We have it in various covers to match any living room!

The sales talk was over. Charlie leaned over and took the Bible from the salesman’s hands. He looked at it long and silently; it was all the salesman said.

“Mr. Grant,” he said, “I know the Author of this Book.”

“Oh no, sir, that cannot be!” exclaimed the young fellow. “Those who wrote it have been dead many years. They belonged to ages past.”

Charlie went on as if he hadn’t heard. “I met the Author of this Book first at my mother’s knee. Then later in life He spoke to me from these pages many, many times. When I was sixteen He said to me: Tor God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.’ I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.’ Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved.’

“Mr. Grant, I heard His words and heeded them. Later in life when as a young man I was beset by the usual temptations of youth, He said, ‘Whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely,... Think on these things.’ Then too when great sorrow came into our family He spoke, saying, ‘Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and He shall sustain thee.’ I did, Mr. Grant, and He did.

“Again when we had a crop faire for two years, He spoke once again, ‘My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory.’ In all our joys and sorrows He has had a special word of counsel or encouragement from the pages of this blessed Book.

“And now, as I approach the suet years of life, He speaks again telling me that even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I need fear no evil. My Saviour went through the real death of Calvary’s cross long ago and I shall only need to go through the shadow.”

There was quiet on the porch for a while. Then the silence was broken by Aunt Martha’s voice, “Charlie, dinner’s ready!”

The young man prepared to leave but Grandpa said, “Won’t you stay for dinner, and all night for that matter?” And the salesman accepted.

After dinner they returned to the porch and taking the Bible again Grandpa said to his guest, “Wouldn’t you like to know the Author of this Book?”

The answer was quick and firm: “Yes, I surely would.”

The next morning, as the young man prepared to leave, he said to Mr. Brown, “I came to sell you a Bible, but you have sold the divine contents of it to me, and I shall ever be grateful.”

“That’s fine,” said Charlie, “but I need some Bibles any way. There are birthdays coming around, so put me down for six.”

About ten days later a package arrived and on opening it Grandpa found seven Bibles. On the flyleaf of one was written: “To Charles Brown... in deep appreciation of his having introduced me to the Author of this Book, which I tried to sell, but which he sold to me... Norman Grant.

“The entrance of Thy words giveth light” Psalm 119:130. “The holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” 2 Tim. 3:15.

Memory Verse: “THIS MAN RECEIVETH SINNERS, AND EATETH WITH THEM.” Luke 15:2.

ML-09/01/1974

Saved From a Cactus Hedge

IN INDIA one day a dear little baby girl was born into a native family. However, the parents were greatly disappointed for they wanted a boy. They did not want the baby girl so they gave it to a nurse to get rid of it. She took it to the edge of the jungle and tossed the poor little thing into a cactus hedge.

The baby cried when the cactus needles pricked its arms and legs. A native Christian lady happened to pass that way and heard the baby’s cries. She found the little thing and after pulling out the thorns she took the baby to a Christian mission.

One of the teachers fell in love with the beautiful baby girl and took care of her. She took her for her own and called her Piyrai which means “Beloved.”

With good food and loving care little Piyrai grew fast into a beautiful young girl. Her new mother taught her much about Jesus who loves and died for little children no matter of what color or race they are. Piyrai learned many of the wonderful Bible stories and one day she received the Lord Jesus by faith into her heart. She was now truly saved and a happy little Christian.

When she grew up she became a teacher in one of the government schools and in this way she was able to tell many of her students about the same wonderful Saviour she had come to know and love.

Jesus said: “Suffer the little children to come unto Me,... And He took them up in His arms,... and blessed them.” Mark 10:14,16.

ML-09/01/1974

"And My Caravan, Too!"

A CHRISTIAN missionary used to visit the gypsies and tell them the good news of God’s salvation. One day she noticed a gypsy, surrounded by his children, standing in front of his caravan. She spoke to him of the death of the Saviour on the cross, and at once he said, “Oh! that is very interesting.”

He brought out a much read Bible and said, “Someone gave me this Bible. I wanted to read it, but I had never been to church or to school. With much trouble I taught myself to read, and since then I have read that Book day and night, yes, until my eyes were sore. I thought to myself, surely someone will come along and explain things to me.”

For several hours they read tether, and Mrs. Zeller was astonished at his knowledge of the Bible. While reading in Acts 16 about the jailor at Philippi to whom Paul said, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved, and thy house,” up jumped the gypsy and shouted, “Yes, and my caravan, too!”

Yes, dear young friends, the Lord wants not only your Daddy and Mother to be saved — He wants the whole family, too. Have you taken Him as your Saviour?

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved” (Acts 16:31), and happy, too.

ML-09/01/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 33

“THESE are the journeys of the children of Israel which went forth out of the land of Egypt.... And Moses wrote their goings out according to their journeys by the commandment of the Lord.”

In this chapter we have the record of Israel’s journeyings through the wilderness just ended. They were almost ready to cross the Jordan and enter upon a new scene, so it was well for them to look back on every step of that journey. It is a record of the faithful guardian care of Him who in spite of their willfulness had ever led them “by a right way.” How wonderful it is to see that God Himself had kept account of every step His people took on that journey! He went over it all with Moses, telling him to write it in a book, and this Moses did for our instruction and blessing.

Two things travel along together in the wilderness journey — our ways with God, and His ways with us, and oh what a difference! Our ways have been marked by Him, and it is good for us to look back and see the wonderful grace that has met us in all our need and in spite of our sinful wanderings. This ought to bow our hearts in adoring worship and thanksgiving.

Soon we shall be called on high and enter that new scene of glory with Christ. Looking back we shall adore the love that never failed and the grace that bore with us and brought us home at last.

Taken up in resurrection, Desert ways rehearsed above, Tell the power of God’s salvation And His never-failing love.

The Lord told Moses to tell the children of Israel that when they crossed the Jordan and entered Canaan they were to drive out the inhabitants of the land. If they were to leave any of them they would be like thorns and briars to vex them.

Furthermore they must destroy all the pictures and images of those wicked people, and the places where they worshiped their idols. Surely this has a word for us as Christians today. With all the pictures and images which savor of this world’s darkness and evil, we should do what the children of Israel were told to do — destroy them. We all have the flesh within us and if we feed these sinful desires it will surely dishonor God and rob our souls of Christ.

ML-09/01/1974

A Malayan Boy

DILE WAS a little boy who lived in Malaya. He lived with his father, mother and five brothers and sisters in a one roomed thatched house built on stilts. His grandparents lived with them.

Dile liked to play, like most boys and girls, but he also liked to go to the rice paddies with Father and Mother, and when he grew older he also worked in the rice fields.

Then one day his mother took sick. They did not know about the Lord Jesus and his father called for the devil dancers to come and drive away the evil spirit out of his mother. But this did no good. Mother continued to get worse and at last Father knew that Mother would never be well again. Young Dile was very sad when he heard this.

A foreign missionary who had walked miles through the jungle arrived one day at Dile’s village. He had good news for them, he said. They need not fear the evil spirits any longer for the great God above loved them and would care for them. The missionary told them of how God had sent His beloved Son, Jesus, into the world to die for sinners and those who believe in Him are saved from their sins, made happy and have a wonderful future. Few of the natives believed his message, sad to say.

But one night when the missionary was sleeping in his tent nearby he suddenly woke up to find a boy standing beside him. It was Dile.

“Missionary,” said the boy, “I have heard you tell people about the great God who loves them and cares for them, and about His Son, Jesus, who came to save us from sin and evil spirits. I want Jesus to save me. Do you think He will?”

The missionary rejoiced to tell his young listener more of the Saviour who loved Him and of His death upon the cross for sinners. Dile believed it all in childish simplicity and was saved that very night.

He became a bright happy little Christian and many of the children in his village heard the story of the Saviour from this young missionary. Some of them believed, like Dile, and learned to love the Saviour too.

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

ML-09/08/1974

May Chung

MAY CHUNG was a little Chinese girl, just seven years old. Her father was an opium smoker and spent most of his money on the terrible habit. As a result his poor wife and family often did not have enough to eat nor proper clothes to wear. Then too the opium made the father cross and he often treated his wife and children very cruelly. So little May had a very sad home life.

One day a missionary found May Chung and invited her to come to the mission school. Her mother said she could go.

At the mission school the little girl learned many new things, but best of all she learned about Jesus. She found out that He loved her, that He had died to save boys and girls, and all people who will trust Him, and wants to make them happy. Little May Chung scarcely knew what it was to be happy but one day asked the Lord Jesus to come into her heart and take her sins away. She wanted to belong to Him.

Now the Lord Jesus never turned any one away and so May Chung came to know Him as her Saviour that day. What joy filled her heart! When she went home she told her brothers and sisters what had happened. They too wanted to know this wonderful Saviour and be happy. They were weary of their sins and wanted Jesus to take those sins away. The mother too got interested and then one day she accepted the Lord Jesus into her heart.

After that Mother and children prayed earnestly for poor father. He had long been weary of his sins and the dread opium habit, and the day came when he too came to Jesus and was wonderfully saved. The Lord took away his desire for opium and at last the home was a happy one. God had used little May Chung in blessing to the whole family.

“For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God.” Eph. 2:8.

ML-09/08/1974

"I Want to Be Sure About It"

AT THE close of a children’s meeting a little boy came up to the speaker and said, “I want to be sure about it, sir.” “What do you want to be sure about, my boy?” he asked.

“About my salvation, sir,” he replied.

They sat down side by side, and spoke for a long time about Christ and His precious blood. They read several portions of Scripture, such as, “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31.

“He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life.” John 3:36.

“I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish.” John 10:28.

These verses make all who believe sure about their salvation, and at the close of the conversation, the dear little fellow said, “I am sure about it now.”

“These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life.” 1 John 5:13.

ML-09/08/1974

The Old Railway Man

ONE BEAUTIFUL day in June four boys were out in the country for a holiday.

They had followed a path through the woods which ended at the railway tracks. But here they were stopped by an old railway section man, who warned them that they were running the risk of being fined.

The boys explained how they came there, and in the midst of their apologies the section man said, “Have you discovered the great secret yet?”

“And what might that be?” asked Harry, who had not yet spoken, while the others joined in a laugh.

“Just this, young friends, the blood of Jesus Christ cleanseth us from all sin.”

“It’s no laughin’ matter, I can tell you; he continued earnestly, “you’ve no idea what a burden it takes off your mind just to let the Lord cleanse away all your sin.

“When I was young I was like you, careless as to the future; but now thank God, I have found Christ. Even Nicodemus, and he was a great man, found that he needed the Lord, and so will you.

“Oh young friends, take this to heart".

Some years afterward two of the boys, now young men, were walking in the town near the place where they had spent that happy June day.

An old man gazed at them curiously, and as they returned his look, one suddenly exclaimed, “Why, it’s our old friend the railway section man!”

A hearty greeting followed, and before they parted the other one said, “I believe if it hadn’t been for you, I never should have found Christ: but now we have both found that great secret of yours.”

“God bless you, young men,” said the old man, tears of joy running down his face: “May He indeed make you both shining lights for Him in this dark and needy world.”

ML-09/08/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 34:1-35:8

IN THIS chapter God outlines the boundaries of the promised land — north, south, east and west. The same faithful One who had guided His people in all their wilderness wanderings now arranges where each would dwell in their homeland. He tells Moses the borders of each of the nine and a half tribes who were to enjoy that beautiful country. The other two and a half tribes chose to live on the other side of the Jordan.

How good of God to tell Moses all about the land even though Moses could not enter it himself. He fully revealed His mind to Moses for we read that He made known His ways, that is Himself, to Moses, but the people only saw His acts (Psalm 103:7).

But God’s earthly people never took complete possession of Canaan. They only took part of it and even that they lost through their unfaithfulness. Israel drove out some of their enemies, but then they settled down, not having the energy to fight for the rest. And isn’t this true of us, His heavenly people? How little have we entered into the breadth, and length, and depth and height of all that God has given to us in Christ, the risen and glorified One. To enter into and enjoy our heavenly portion brings conflict and the tendency is to draw back and take the easy way. The result is that there remains yet much land to be possessed. May the Lord stir us up to seek to enjoy more of the blessings of that heavenly land where Christ is gone.

Then in chapter 35 God takes care of His servants. The Levites were not to have any inheritance for their portion was in Himself. But the children of Israel were to give them cities to dwell in. They were not to live in one spot but were to be spread out over different parts of the land.

They were to have forty-eight cities — that was four from each tribe, and each city was to have 2000 cubits of land around it for a place for them to keep their cattle and their goods. God takes care of His servants and His people also have the privilege of having a share in providing for those who devote themselves to His service.

How wonderfully God provides for His own — for all those who trust and seek to honor Him. “There is no want to them that fear Him. The young lions do lack, and suffer hunger: but they that seek the Lord shall not want any good thing.” Psalm 34:9,10.

ML-09/08/1974

Bendigo

BENDIGO, in his earlier days, had been a prize fighter. He was of massive frame and when at his best scarcely a man could stand up against him.

But when his prize fighting days were over, with little or no education, he found it hard to make a living. He gave himself over to drink and thieving, and all the evils that go with the downgrade.

When a child Bendigo had been left to run wild; he went barefoot till he was in his teens. He had never been in a Sunday school and no one had ever taught him about the Saviour. For many years he had run the sinful race and now he was getting old.

The morning he was released from prison some of his old companions were waiting for him, and coaxed him to come along with them. But a Christian man interposed, saying, “No, don’t go, Bendigo, come along with me. I want you to hear ‘Undaunted Dick’ Weaver, the converted prize-fighter, preach the gospel tonight.”

Bendigo’s curiosity was aroused.

The news that another prize-fighter like himself had been converted and was holding meetings in town interested him. He would go and hear him.

That night a large crowd had assembled at the gospel hall, and many were unable to get in. Then a voice cried out, “Here comes old Bendigo: make way for him.” Seng the well-known old prizefighter approach, the crowd made way and he was led right up the front. There he sat on the platform alongside of the speaker.

Mr. Weaver’s theme that night was “God’s love even to the chief of sinners.” The Spirit of God was at work, and when he had done speaking old Bendigo dropped to his knees and cried, “Oh God, if Thou canst save a man like ‘Undaunted Dick,’ Thou canst save me.”

The crowd shouted, “God bless old Bendigo.” Some were weeping, some laughing for joy. That night Mr. Weaver took Bendigo home with him. He took a bath and they rigged him out with a complete change of clothes including a new suit. Poor Mrs. Weaver said: “Richard, you have brought many a rough character here, but this one seems to be the masterpiece. I’m afraid of him.”

“The Lord has turned the lion into a lamb,” returned Dick.

The next evening Mr. and Mrs. Weaver and a friend were in the study and Bendigo was in the living room with the young children. Looking out they saw the children kneeling before the fire saying their bedtime prayers, and Bendigo was kneeling with them. Young Reggie was leading the others. They heard him say, “Lord, bless Daddy and Mommie.”

To their astonishment Bendigo also repeated, “Lord, bless Daddy and Mommie.”

Reggie then prayed for his friends, one by one and Bendigo repeated their petitions.

Then came, “Lord, bless Bendigo.”

“Lord, bless Bendigo,” prayed poor Bendigo.

“They say Bendigo is a bad man, Lord,” said the boy.

“They say Bendigo is a bad man, Lord, and it’s true,” repeated the poor man.

“But Thou canst save Bendigo,” said the boy.

“But Thou canst save Bendigo,” repeated the man.

“Thy blood was shed for Bendigo,” said the boy.

“Thy blood was shed for Bendigo,” repeated the man.

“Lord, save Bendigo tonight,” said the boy concluding his little prayer.

“Lord, save Bendigo tonight,” said the man in tones of unmistakable earnestness.

Mrs. Weaver wept and their friend said, “Praise the Lord!” Then they watched as the children rose from their knees, and Bendigo tang the youngest boy in his arms carried him around the room, sighing, “Oh that I had been taught to pray when a child, and to love God when a child. How different would my life have been!”

Later he turned to Mrs. Weaver and said, “God bless you, lady. Oh that I had been brought up as these children are being brought up. What a life I have lived! But I am in heaven now.”

And the repentant prize-fighter knelt once more before the fire and sobbed like a child. The heart of a little child was given to him and he arose from his knees born of God.

From then on it was his delight to hear the Word of God read. He kept Reggie busy reading the Scriptures to him. He traveled with Mr. Weaver and at gospel meetings he sat up on the platform with him. Some hard hearts that Dick’s words could not reach fell before the testimony of old Bendigo. To see him “clothed and in his right mind” to them was nothing short of a miracle of saving grace. Conviction laid hold on them and they fled for refuge to Bendigo’s Saviour.

The Lord took away completely Bendigo’s thirst for drink. Then one day he had a fall from which he never recovered. When the news spread that Bendigo was dying, rich and poor, Christians and world lings — for he was esteemed by all went to see him. Among them was Harry, a former prize-fighter friend of his, and he led him to Christ before he died.

As the end neared he did his best to sing,

For you must be a lover of the Lord

Or you won’t go to heaven when you die.

Those were his last words. Soon after he departed to be with Christ.

His friends erected a tombstone over his grave on which the words were engraved.

A LION AT REST

Memory Verse: “HE THAT BELIEVETH IN ME, THOUGH HE WERE DEAD, YET SHALL HE LIVE.” John 11:25

ML-09/15/1974

God Uses a Bee

A YOUNG Japanese lady came to the missionary to seek some comfort because her husband made her miserable. He had a good job, but he was a drunkard and often treated his wife cruelly. The lady missionary spoke to her about the Lord Jesus and His love to sinful men. The young woman took it all in and came daily to hear more about this wonderful Saviour. Very soon she surrendered her heart and life to Him and found peace and joy in her soul. She taught her five children about the only true God and His Son Jesus Christ.

One evening when she was reading the Bible with her children, her husband came in drunk as usual. Angered at seeing his wife reading the Bible, he took up the lid of a heavy pot to throw at his wife. At this moment a bee stung his hand so that he dropped the lid. The eldest boy said, “Daddy, you see that mother belongs now to God and He protects her; you can do no more harm to mother. And if you still try to do so, something more dreadful will happen to you.”

Ashamed the father left the room. Next day his hand was badly swollen and he did not make his appearance at the breakfast table. In the evening he brought a present to his wife and began to treat her with kindness and the whole household gave up the worship of idols.

“Ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God; and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.” 1 Thess. 1:9,10.

ML-09/15/1974

A Father's Gift

Mr. Barr’s work took him away from home quite a lot. On his return he always had a present in his suitcase for his young son Ronnie. “What have you got for me, Day?” the little boy would always ask excitedly.

Soon Mr. Barr began to see that Ron was thinking more of the gift than of him, the giver, so one day, when Ron demanded, “What have you got for me?” his father showed him the empty suitcase and said, “I have brought you — MYSELF!”

How wonderful it is to remember that when the Lord Jesus came to earth to die for our salvation, He not only brought gifts of love and life and lasting joy, but He, Himself, is God’s Gift to sinners. Have you, dear reader, ever thanked Him for dying for you on the cross and for giving His life so that you might have everlasting life?

ML-09/15/1974

A Sick Student Converted

A young student lay gravely ill. The doctor who attended him was a bright Christian and he asked the young fellow if he would not accept the Lord Jesus as his Saviour.

“Would it not be mean to ask Him to save me when I am dying, after living without Him all these years,” he questioned.

“It would,” replied the doctor, “but it would be meaner to still reject Him when He still loves you and wants to save you.”

This was a new way of putting the truth and the young student was impressed. The thought of the Saviour’s love quite overcame him and he opened his heart to receive Him as His own. Shortly after he passed away in peace, rejoicing in the grace that had snatched him as a brand from the burning.

ML-09/15/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 35:9-34

“And the Lord spake unto Moses, sang, Speak unto the children of Israel, and say unto them, “When ye be come into the land of Canaan, then ye shall appoint you cities to be cities of refuge for you; that the slayer may flee thither, which killeth any person UNAWARES. And they shall be unto you cities for refuge from the avenger.”

There were to be six of these cities, three on each side of the Jordan. It is estimated that no two of these cities were more than 70 miles apart, so that any one in any part of the land would be within 35 miles from one of them.

God had before Him Israel’s guilt in the slaying of their own Messiah. They said, “His blood be on us, and on our children.” (Matt. 27:25). Thus they have stained themselves with the blood of Christ.

Here we have both the judgment of God and the grace of God. The Lord Jesus prayed on the cross, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do,” and Peter by the Spirit of God in Acts 3:17 proclaimed: “I know that through ignorance ye did it, as did also your rulers.” Grace treated them as man-slayers, and the Church became a city of refuge for them. How wondrous the grace that would provide a way of escape for one stained with blood! But there were those Jews who refused the grace of God and perished in the awful judgment that overtook them when Jerusalem fell.

The manslayer who had killed another unwittingly had to remain in the city of refuge until the death of the high priest. This corresponds with the priestly work of the Lord Jesus now for He appears in the presence of God for us now after the order of Aaron. But this service shall end one day soon, which change is intimated in the death of the high priest of old. When the Lord Jesus comes out of heaven it will be as the great Melchisedek, and this will be the character of His service throughout the millennium.

The manslayer was cared for all the time he was in the city of refuge and he would look forward to the day when he could return home. God’s earthly people cannot return to their homeland until the Lord Jesus comes again, but when that day comes they will return in peace to the land of their possession, and none shall make them afraid. The blessed Saviour has died for them, He has borne the penalty of their guilt and the “avenger of blood” shall pursue them never more.

The Lord Jesus is the sinner’s refuge. All men are guilty of the death of God’s Son, but whoever flies to Him for refuge God will never judge. How sweet here are the words of the Lord Jesus Himself, “Him that cometh to Me, I will in no wise cast out.” John 6:3.

ML-09/15/1974

Hezekiah's Words

“The Lord was ready to save me.” Isaiah 38:20.

These words of Hezekiah are true of you. The Lord is ready to save you. He died for you and now He lives in heaven, “a Prince and a Saviour,” and waits to hear your response.

Take Him as your Lord and Saviour and thank Him for His great salvation.

ML-09/15/1974

The Prairie Fire!

FRITZ was the little three-year-old boy who lived with his father and mother on the Nebraska prairie years ago. Except for the fields his father had plowed and planted, there was only prairie grass as far as anyone could see in every direction.

One day while Fritz was outdoors playing, his father came running to the house shouting, “Fire! There’s a prairie fire coming this way! Come and help me quick!”

Mother rushed to the door, and away to the east she could see smoke rising. Even as she watched it seemed to be coming closer.

“Fritz! Oh! where is Fritz?” Mother called, but there was no answer. “He was playing on the step with his doll a moment ago. Fritz!” she called again.

“Find him quickly and then come and help me build back fires. There’s not a moment to lose!” Father called.

Mother began calling and hunting frantically about the house, the barn and shed; but there was no sign of little Fritz. The clouds of smoke were coming closer swiftly. If little Fritz were not found soon he might be trapped in the terrible fire! Mother prayed as she ran and called, for every moment was precious.

Running to the pastures she climbed upon the gate so she could see as far as possible in every direction. Was that a stone over to the left? Climbing down she ran to see, and there was Fritz, sound asleep in the tall grass with his little homemade doll in his arms.

With tears of thankfulness Mother picked up sleepy Fritz in her arms and ran to the house. Then Mother and Father fought the prairie fire until finally the danger was past. The fields were black and still smoldering on every side as they knelt and gave thanks to God for His deliverance.

Many boys and girls are in greater danger than Fritz was in, and they do not know it! They are sound asleep in their sin!

If they do awaken to their danger and flee to the Lord Jesus as their Saviour, they will find themselves someday in that awful place called hell, suffering everlasting punishment for their sins.

Oh listen, “Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light.” Eph. 5:14.

“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 [punishment]; but is passed from death unto life.” John 5:24.

ML-09/22/1974

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 did more than struggle — he buzzed very loudly, and his cry of terror reached my ear and touched my heart. 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. Satan 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.” Heb. 2:14,15.

“In my distress I cried unto the Lord, and He heard me.” Psa. 120:1.

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

ML-09/22/1974

A Story From Okinawa

EARLY in the century an American missionary stopped off at the island of Okinawa on his way to Japan. His visit to the wee village of Shimabuku was brief but while he was there two young natives pressed faith in the Lord Jesus, and he left them a Bible.

These two were brothers and that was the only contact they had with any Christian for many years. But the Bible was wonderfully blessed of God to their souls as they poured over its sacred pages. As a result of their faithful Christian lives and teaching many if not most in that little village became true believers in the Lord Jesus.

The Bible was read every day in the school. Its teachings became an influence in the village government, and pagan beliefs and practices disappeared.

Then 30 years later World War 2 came. The little village of huts was severely shelled when the U.S. troops swarmed over the island. When the American advance patrols charged the village with guns levelled they were stopped short by two little old men who came forward bowing and speaking politely.

Through an interpreter the soldiers found they were being welcomed as fellow-Christians! and not as enemies. The brothers explained that the missionary who had brought them the Book years before was from America and though the new visitors had a different approach they were still being welcomed.

The dumbfounded soldiers sent for their chaplain and together with their officers they toured the village. Instead of the usual poverty, ignorance and filth they found clean little homes and streets with happy and dignified citizens. The Americans could hardly believe their eyes.

The two aged Christian leaders mistook the American’s amazement for disappointment. They apologized saying they had had no Christian sent to them since the one who gave them the Book. They had tried to live as Christians; perhaps their visitors would teach them how to live better.

But many of the American soldiers went away feeling that the two little men and natives of Shimabuku had taught them that day a lesson which they, brought up in the midst of Christianity, had never learned.

In 1959 one from the Japanese Bible society visited Shimabuku and found the two dear brothers both working diligently for the Lord, and the Bible was still the heart of the community. Oh, what one Bible can do!

“The holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” 2 Tim. 3:15.

“There is no God else beside Me; a just God and a Saviour;... Look unto Me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth.” Isa. 45:21,22.

ML-09/22/1974

Bible Talks: Numbers 36

IN THIS chapter the daughters of Zelophehad come before us once more. In chapter 27 we saw how brightly their faith shone out in their asking for the inheritance of their father in the land the Lord had given them. We saw too how God in His goodness was pleased to meet their request.

But now another danger presents itself and we see the wisdom and grace of God in meeting it. If they were to marry outside their tribe, the inheritance might through them pass out of the tribe’s possession and even the year of jubilee would not restore it again; it would be lost forever.

The Lord guarded against such a happening and commanded concerning the daughters of Zelophehad, saying, “Let them marry to whom they think best; only to the family of the tribe of their father shall they marry.” Thus the inheritance of each tribe would be secured to it perpetually. The inheritance God gave must remain with those to whom it was given. Nothing must alter it.

What a proof of God’s loving care. And He has done no less for us His heavenly people. Blessed be His name, nothing shall prevent any of His own from enjoying for eternity the inheritance He has prepared for them that love Him.

Peter tells us of “an 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 Pet. 1:4,5). Thus we learn that God is keeping the inheritance for us, and He is keeping us for the inheritance.

With this we close this precious Book! What a wonderful record of grace it is! God has brought His people safely through that waste, howling wilderness; the long journey is at an end at last, and just across the Jordan lies the promised land of their inheritance.

And surely, dear young Christian friends, we too are almost at the end of our wilderness journey. The glory land is not far off. Faith can sing,

The glory shines before me,

I am not far from home.

Our blessed Saviour and Lord is coming soon to take us there.

ML-09/22/1974

A Free Gift

In one of the meetings an evangelist was explaining the freeness of salvation. A man in the audience jumped to his feet and, oblivious to his surroundings, cried out, “Oh, it is beautiful! I always had the thought that I had something to DO, but now I see I have something to TAKE.” Yes, eternal life is a FREE GIFT

Psalm 18

2 The LORD is my rock, and my fortress, and my deliverer; my God, my strength, in whom I will trust; my buckler, and the horn of my salvation, and my high tower.

ML-09/22/1974

Bemvindo

THE VILLAGE of Born Jesus in Brazil years ago was anything but what its name might suggest. Actually it was a most unholy place, and being far from any city, it was also very lawless.

In that village there lived a young boy named Bemvindo, which means “Welcome.” Bemvindo grew to be a short, though powerfully built young man, strong of arm, naturally courageous, and very ready with his weapons. He had spent some time in prison for knifing an enemy, and was generally considered in those parts as a “man of respect.”

It happened that one day two Brazilian preachers visited the village hoping to preach the gospel there, but at first they could find no one willing to let them have a house or a room for a meeting. In fact twelve men, having heard of their intention, vowed that the gospel should never be preached in their village, and swore to kill any preacher and break up any meeting.

The news of their intention reached the ears of Bemvindo, and out of bravado he opened his house to the preachers. Then he invited his neighbors, including those twelve men, to come and hear the gospel. At the appointed hour they all came, and so did the twelve men. These found Bemvindo waiting to welcome them. He was on his doorstep, armed with rifle, revolvers, and knife. He invited them up with the threat that if any of them mounted the steps to the house, he would shoot them quite dead. The “twelve” held a council meeting outside, to discuss so delicate and important a matter. Their discussion took so long that the meeting inside went on and was finished, before they had come to any decision as to what course they should take under the circumstances.

Further meetings followed and at last the twelve decided that their cause was hopeless. The gospel had come to stay. Bemvindo therefore had no longer any need to stand guard, so he attended the meetings himself. His heart was opened to receive the blessed message of the gospel, how that God so loved poor sinners like himself that He sent His only begotten Son into the world to die upon the cross for sin. Now whosoever believes in Him shall not perish but have everlasting life. Bemvindo believed and was soundly converted. So were many more. He became a faithful follower of Christ, married into a nice Christian family, and often did they entertain the gospel preachers who visited their village.

Memory Verse: “I ACKNOWLEDGED MY SIN UNTO THEE,... AND THOU FORGAVEST THE INIQUITY OF MY SIN.” Psalm 32:5.

ML-09/29/1974

How Harry Was Changed

YOUNG HARRY had a bad temper and often got angry. Oftentimes he would use bad words and do naughty things. His mother had to punish him each time but this did not change Harry.

Then one day he hit his little sister with a big stick and Mother saw him. “Harry,” she said, “bring me that stick.”

Harry brought the stick, his head bowed low, sure that Mother was going to punish him with it. But to his surprise she said, “Harry, you have been a bad boy again. You hit your little sister with that big stick. Now whenever you sin, your sin has to be punished.

“But, Harry,” she went on, “I love you so much that I’m going to take your punishment instead. I want you to hit me hard with that stick.”

Tears came into Harry’s eyes and he began to cry. “Mother,” he said, “I love you! I can’t do that to you. I’m sorry I hit sister. I won’t do it any more. Please forgive me.” His mother’s love had broken him down and won his heart.

And this is just what the Lord Jesus did when He came into this world. We were sinners and deserved God’s punishment. But Jesus loved us; He died in our stead. He bore our sins in His own body on the tree.

Has His love won your heart, dear young reader?

He knew how wicked man had been,

And knew that God must punish sin;

So out of pity Jesus said

He’d bear the punishment instead.

And so He died. And this is why

He came to be a man and die;

The Bible says He came from heaven

That we might have our sins forgiven.

“While we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” Rom. 5:8. “In whom we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins.” Eph. 1:7.

ML-09/29/1974

Moon's Bible

MOON was a little Korean boy. He longed to have a Bible for his own, but his parents were too poor to buy one.

One day the news came that colporteurs were coming to the village. “The Bible men are coming with many Bibles,” the pastor told Moon. “They will take vegetables and fruit and other things for a Bible if you are not able to pay for one.”

“Now’s my chance,” thought Moon, and he was very happy. “I’ll make a straw rope and trade it for a Bible.” So off he ran in high glee and began to make a straw rope.

He worked from early morn to late at night making his rope. He had made 455 feet by the time the Bible men arrived at the village, a big load for a small boy.

But he presented the rope to the Bible men and received in return a beautiful new Testament. Moon was so happy that tears of joy ran down his face as he clasped the precious Book to his heart. It was his chief treasure.

Oh dear young friends, would it not be wonderful if more of us loved and treasured God’s precious Word like that? Dear Moon was like Jeremiah of old who said, “Thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart.” Jer. 15:16.

ML-09/29/1974

Voltaire and Ingersoll

VOLTAIRE, a French writer and infidel, once said that in a hundred years the Bible would be a forgotten Book. Copies would only be found in museums.

Some time after Voltaire’s wretched death, and long before the hundred years were up, the infidel’s house had become the property of the Geneva Bible Society. Out of it went forth thousands of copies of the Holy Scriptures.

At an auction sale once, ninety-two volumes of Voltaire’s works, part of a rich man’s library, were sold for $2.00.

A century later, another infidel, Robert Ingersoll, famous American lawyer and orator, held vast meetings and lectured against the Bible and Christianity. On one occasion he held up a Bible and declared, “in fifteen years I’ll have this Book in the morgue.”

The fifteen years went by. Then Ingersoll himself was in the morgue. But the Bible lives on!

“The word of God, which liveth and abideth forever.” 1 Peter 1:23.

“He that doeth the will of God abideth forever.” 1 John 2:17.

ML-09/29/1974

Bible Talks: Deuteronomy 1:1

WE NOW begin the book of Deuteronomy nearly all of which Moses rehearsed in the hearing of the people when they were encamped by the river Jordan. Unlike the three previous books, which contain a great many types and shows telling of future events and coming glories, Deuteronomy has but few types and is largely devoted to simply stating facts, concerning their journey through the wilderness and then that which had to do with their possession of the land.

It is not a mere repetition of past events, far from it. Many things we read in the previous books are alluded to here, but they are all part of the great moral teaching of this book. And then there are some parts which were not given before. Some things do not even refer to the wilderness, even referring to their having a king.

Deuteronomy is the book of obedience. It is God’s call to Israel to walk in obedience and a rehearsal of His faithfulness which should give them every cause to want to obey.

“If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land: but if ye refuse and rebel, ye shall be devoured with the sword.” Isa. 1:19,20.

Alas, time proved that, except for a little remnant, Israel had no heart for God and they only earned the curse pronounced for their disobedience. And this is what makes the book so important to God’s people in all ages. We ought to read this precious book where obedience is enjoined so strongly, for obedience and happiness go together. “If ye keep My commandments, ye shall abide in My love.” “If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them.” (John 15:10; 13:17.)

It is most instructive for us to see that when the Lord was tempted by Satan in the wilderness the three answers the Lord used to put the tempter to flight were all quoted from the book of Deuteronomy. His perfect obedience to the Father’s will gave such power to the words of the Lord Jesus that the enemy was defeated. He was foiled to God’s glory by an obedient and dependent Man.

Disobedience characterized the first Adam, whereas perfect obedience was only seen in all the walk and ways of Jesus, the last Adam. We see in Him that which is the highest and loveliest thing in man here below — unswerving devotion to doing the will of God His Father.

What honor then the Lord Jesus put upon the book of Deuteronomy. He is our great Example, for in Him we see that which becomes us and all who desire to follow Him.

ML-09/29/1974

1 Corinthians 15

58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.

Work, for the night is coming,

Work through the sunny noon;

Fill brightest hours with labor,

Rest comes sure and soon.

Give every flying minute

Something to keep in store:

Work, for the night is coming,

When man works no more.

ML-09/29/1974

The Man in the Mud

IN BRAZIL, once a group of believers were gathered for prayer. Bemvindo, who had not long been converted was with them. An old dark-skinned native, nearly 100 years of age, was passing by. He was a notorious old scoundrel, a spiritist who practiced “black magic.”

At the moment he was passing, our friend Bemvindo was praying, and the old fellow stood outside, cursing and blaspheming at the door and open window, and disturbed the meeting. He then went on his way, and being the worse for drink, he fell into a mudhole some distance from the village. Here he got firmly stuck and could not get out. The more he struggled the deeper he sank into the mud.

Bemvindo had to pass that same way, and going home he found the old fellow a fast prisoner. By this time Bemvindo was an evangelist who sowed “beside all waters,” and what could offer a better opportunity? So he sat down beside the old man and preached the gospel to him. The prisoner in the mud could not get away from it, though it is doubtful if he appreciated the message then, or thought it as “in season” as the preacher did.

Having finished his sermon, Bemvindo got hold of the old man, and by sheer force pulled him out of the mire. Then all wet and dirty as he was, he put him on his shoulders and carried him all the way home. The old fellow was amazed for he did not expect this kind of revenge for his conduct. He thought at least he might have been left to die in the ditch. Bemvindo told him the Lord would do more for his soul, pulling him out of the mire of sin, and would carry him safely to that heavenly Home, prepared for those that love Him.

The old man came to the meeting to hear more. Finally the glorious light of the gospel flooded into his darkened soul and he was brightly saved. With Christ now as his Saviour, he threw away all his magic, and his conversion caused quite a sensation in the village. The last word of him was that he never missed a meeting when he could possibly get there, and his family too were all attending. They had to enlarge the hall for many more were coming to hear the gospel.

How marvelous the triumphs of grace, over sin and the power of Satan! What wonderful stories of redeeming love will be told in heaven, when all the redeemed, from every kindred and tongue and people and nation, shall be gathered Home, up there!

Dear young reader, God is still gathering out and fitting souls for heaven. Has grace triumphed in your heart? You know you are a sinner. Have you bowed to the Saviour? Why wait any longer? Take Christ as your Saviour now and start for heaven, and Home, today.

“I am the door: by Me if any man enter in, he shall be saved.” John 10:9.

ML-10/06/1974

How a Robber Was Saved

IT WAS a pitch-dark night. Along the lonely road traveled a single horseman. The saddle-bags bulged. The horse itself was a handsome bay, and his master rode him well and fearlessly.

Presently the road ended in a rough field. Robbers were known to lurk there, especially on dark nights, yet this strange horseman never slackened his pace or looked to his pistols. Instead he began to sing.

“Halt!” — the song was interrupted by the fierce word, while a rough hand seized the horse’s bridle — “Your money or your life!”

John Wesley — for he it was — humorously searched his pockets for the very small amount he had. The robber swore as he took it, and then rapidly searched the bulging saddle-bags, only to find them heavy with Bibles and booklets. Then he turned away.

“Stop you,” called out Wesley, “I wish to say something.”

Thinking that this strange man might be going to deliver up something of more value than the shabby purse with its meagre contents, the robber stopped.

“My friend,” said Mr. Wesley solemnly, “the time may come when you may regret this kind of life you are living. Then remember this, “the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.” (1 John 1:7)

Across the field sped the man of God and away in another direction hurried the robber. Wesley’s poor little purse lay in his pocket, but Wesley’s parting words lay heavier on the robber’s heart. Over and over again he repeated it — “From all sin — us — from all sin.”

Many years after a great crowd of people were pouring out of a well-known church. They had been listening to a well-known preacher — the same John Wesley. Many waited around the steps to see him as he left the building, but he lingered a long while within, and why?

A stranger had entered and introduced himself to Mr. Wesley. It was the robber — now a respectable, wealthy businessman.

The verse spoken by the servant of God on that dark night years before had wrought a wonderful work. That single verse had been the means of his soul’s salvation.

Turning from his wicked course, the robber turned to the Bible and read there of the blood speaking better things than that of Abel. (Hebrews 12:24). On leaving his criminal career he became a follower of Christ—a Christian indeed.

“To you I owe it all,” he said as he kissed Wesley’s hand.

“Nay, my friend,” replied Wesley, “not to me, but to God’s wonderful love!”

ML-10/06/1974

Paw, a Thailand Boy

PAW, who lived in Thailand, had never heard of Jesus. But one day someone gave him a Gospel of Matthew and he read it over and over again, memorizing many of the chapters.

He had no one to teach him, but the Spirit of God was his teacher. Gradually he began to understand what he read and he obeyed its message as well. Paw came to love the Lord Jesus and trusted Him.

The last commands of the Lord interested him greatly: “Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” So Paw decided he would go and visit all the villages around and read God’s word to the people. He read aloud from his Gospel in front of buildings and on street corners and many people would stop to listen.

Then some years later he met a missionary who gave him a whole Bible. That was a happy day for Paw. He was now eighty years old and almost deaf but his eyesight was still good. His loved Bible was his constant companion, he read it to others and explained its wondrous message. Just before he passed away he said, “Pah Yesu! Pah Yesu!” which means, “Jesus, my Jesus!”

Dear Paw’s testimony still lives on in the little villages in Thailand where he lived and labored. There are a number of Christians there who came to know the Lord because someone gave Paw a Gospel of Matthew and because he obeyed its message.

“He [Jesus] became the author of eternal salvation unto all them that obey Him.” Heb. 5:9.

“What shall the end be of them that obey not the gospel of God?” 1 Peter 4:17.

Memory Verse: “AND THIS IS HIS COMMANDMENT, THAT WE SHOULD BELIEVE ON THE NAME OF HIS SON JESUS CHRIST.” 1 John 3:23

ML-10/06/1974

Bible Talks

Deuteronomy 1:2-8

IT WAS the eleventh month of the fortieth year after the people came out of Egypt. They were at the borders of the promised land and about to enter in and take possession of their inheritance.

Moses was nearing the end of his course and soon to depart. This book gives his last words to the people so dear to his heart because they were God’s people.

He begins by reminding them that it was only eleven days journey straight out of Egypt into Canaan, yet it had occupied them, going backwards and forwards, nearly forty years. It was because they despised the beautiful country God had promised them and they were afraid of the giants. They did not believe that God could make them conquer them all, so God kept them in the wilderness all that time to punish them and until that generation that came out of Egypt all died off.

But this is a picture of man’s heart. For when God gives us any blessing we are very slow about taking possession of it, because we do not believe how good it is. The moment we see how very good it is we forget all the things that frightened us before, and we think that everything else is nothing compared to it. Then we want to get all we can of God’s blessing. Furthermore when we come to know how good it is we find out how God delights to give it to us, for God has His own joy in blessing us.

It does not seem that the children of Israel were afraid of the giants any more after they had gotten into Canaan for after they had destroyed those two mighty kings, Sihon and Og, on this side of the Jordan, we hear no more of their fears. They seemed to have proved how God would give them victory as He said He would.

Moses began by going over their history showing us how the Spirit of God kept account of every step of their way. He showed them that God had told them to go straight to the mountain of the Amorites, for that was the first bit of their possession He meant to give them. But alas, when they got there they in their unbelief of the word of God sent out spies. We learn from the book of Deuteronomy here that the decision to send out the spies began with the people. Moses tells them that it was unbelief in them that made them wish to send spies instead of going straight in themselves.

However, God had showed His patience with His people when He said to Moses, “Send the spies.” It was the spies that brought all the trouble upon them because they brought back an evil report of the land.

WE sing of the realms of the blest,

The home Jesus went to prepare

For all who His name now confess:

But what must it be to be there!

We speak of its peace and its love,

The robes which the glorified wear;

The songs of the blessed above:

But what must it be to be there!

We speak of its pathway of gold,

Its walls decked with jewels so rare;

Its wonders and pleasures untold:

But what must it be to be there!

ML-10/06/1974

Barry, the Saint Bernard

BARRY was a noble Saint Beard dog. When he was just a pup he was trained to rescue lost travelers in the Swiss mountains. In his lifetime he saved forty lives among the snowy Alps.

In the dog cemetery in Paris stands a monument erected in memory of Barry. His statue may also be seen in the Museum of Natural History in Berne, Switzerland.

One day a traveler in the Alps lost his way in a blinding snowstorm. Tired and hungry he fell down in the deep snow and could not rise again. A blanket of snow soon covered him and he lay there half asleep and half frozen.

In less than an hour he was found by a great Saint Bernard dog. The dog crouched over the half-frozen man and warmed him with his great furry body. The man came to and opening his eyes he saw a package fastened to the dog’s collar. He removed the package and in it he found food and a drink. The man revived.

The next thing was the dog seized the man’s cap and ran off with it to a refuge high up in the Alps where men took care of lost, weary travelers. Soon a rescue party was on its way led by the faithful Saint Bernard. They found the man and carried him to their home where he was nursed back to health and strength.

In the Bible we read that the Lord Jesus came into the world to seek and to save the lost (Luke 19:10). All around in this world there are those — boys and girls, men and women — who are lost in sin, and perishing. Through His death on the cross and the shedding of His precious blood the Lord Jesus has saved thousands and brought them safe home to heaven.

He is still saving precious souls. Has He saved you, dear reader? Or are you still lost, without hope in this world? The Bible tells us that “It is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment.” Heb. 9:27. If you really want to be saved, salvation is near at hand, for a seeking Saviour and a seeking sinner are soon to meet.

May the memory of noble Barry and his friends inspire us who have this wonderful salvation to go out and seek the lost ones and bring them to Jesus, the only Saviour of sinners.

Rescue the perishing,

Care for the dying,

Snatch them in pity from

sin and the grave;

Weep o’er the erring one,

Lift up the fallen,

Tell them of Jesus,

the mighty to save.

“I, even I, am the Lord; and beside Me there is no Saviour.” Isa. 43:11.

ML-10/13/1974

God Sent a Hen

A GOOD Christian man named Merlin was one of the Huguot preachers in France when there burst out a great storm of persecution. All the preachers had to hide lest they be taken away and slain. M. Merlin hid in a hayloft where none of his enemies thought of looking for him.

However, the trouble was that his friends did not know where he had hidden, and he was in danger of starving in his place of refuge.

Now what do you think it was that came to his help? To his wonder and thankfulness a hen came and laid an egg close beside him. Surely it was God who sent one of His little creatures to minister to one of His loved servants. She came for several days in succession and every time she left an egg. In this way the life of the poor hunted man was preserved until the danger was past.

“This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles.... O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in Him.” Psa. 34:6,8.

Memory Verse: “BLESSED ARE THEY WHOSE INIQUITIES ARE FORGIVEN, AND WHOSE SINS ARE COVERED.” Romans 4:7

ML-10/13/1974

"When the Roll Is Called up Yonder I'll Be There."

MR. BLACK was an earnest Sunday school teacher who loved to help boys and girls. One day he walked through a poor section of his native town of Williamsport and saw a sad-faced little girl sitting on a doorstep. Bessie was the daughter of a drunkard father and was poorly dressed. Mr. Black asked her if she would like to come to Sunday school. Her eyes brightened as she answered wistfully, “Yes"; but then she cast a sad look at her ragged dress, as if to say, “but I’d be ashamed to come.” However, the next day a new dress, new shoes and hat arrived, and Bessie showed up at Sunday school all smiles. She came often to Sunday school after that.

But one evening when they were having special services for the children, the roll call was made and the children each answered with a text of Scripture. But when Bessie’s name was called there was no answer. Mr. Black called her name again, but no response — Bessie wasn’t there.

When Mr. Black spoke to the children that evening, he remarked how sad it would be for any one to be absent when in heaven the names are called of all those written in the Lamb’s book of life. It was a very impressive message and the children’s hearts were solemnized.

Wanting something to sing on this occasion, Mr. Black searched through the hymn book but could not find just what he wanted. Then after the meeting was over, as he walked home, he kept wishing for such a hymn, and the thought came to him, “Why not write one yourself?” At first he dismissed such a thought from his mind. Then as he thought of little Bessie’s absence, he prayed and thanked the Lord that he could say, for himself, “When the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.” He knew the Lord Jesus as his Saviour and he had peace with God.

When he reached home, Mrs. Black sensed something was trolling him, and asked what was the cause of his anxiety. Mr. Black did not reply, but just then the words of the first stanza of a new hymn came into his mind in full.

“When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound, and time shall be no more,

When the morning breaks eternal, bright and fair;

When the saved of earth shall gather over on the other shore, And the roll is called up yonder, I’ll be there.”

A few minutes later two more verses were also written down, and then Mr. Black sat down to the piano and composed the melody that came to him almost at the same time.

Little Bessie was too ill to come to the Sunday school that evening, and shortly after she passed away. We can only hope that she died trusting in Jesus who died for little children, the blessed Saviour she had learned about in the Sunday school. But the hymn she had inspired lives on. It has been sung around the world, and translated into many languages as well.

“Suffer the little children to come unto Me, and forbid them not; for of such is the kingdom of God.” Mark 10:14.

ML-10/13/1974

Bible Talks: Deuteronomy 1:9-18

MOSES wrote Deuteronomy on the eve of his approaching death, so we can understand why the book has such an earnest and solemn tone. He speaks with much affection at times, just as a father would address his children when about to depart and they should see his face and hear his voice no more.

He deeply feels the sorrow of not being able to lead Israel across the Jordan and into that good land the Lord had given them. But though he cannot go in himself, still he desires earnestly that they should enter in and enjoy that beautiful country. Therefore he presses on them continually the lesson of obedience to the Lord. Not only was Israel’s success in possessing the land bound up with their obedience, but their keeping it as well.

Alas, for the words of the aged lawgiver were lost on the people for though they did gain possession of Canaan, they did not keep it for long. They lost it all through their disobedience, and became wanders, outcasts among the nations. Still it is beautiful to turn to the end of the book and read of the Lord’s promises of future restoration and blessing, when they shall repent and turn to Him again. He will give them back their land, surely not because they deserve it, as if there was any good in themselves, but because of His sovereign mercy and love and compassion toward them.

Going back over the past Moses reminds them of the time when he said, “I am not able to bear you myself alone.... How can I myself alone bear your cumbrance, and your burden, and your strife?” How often His patience had been tried by their strivings and their unlovely manners! Yet it is lovely to see Moses’ spirit here. He loved them because they were God’s people. God had multiplied them until now they were as the stars of heaven for multitude, but he longs for their further blessing and he adds so sweetly, “The Lord God of your fathers make you a thousand times so many more as ye are, and bless you, as He hath promised you!”

Moses had felt he was not able to cope with their great increase and told them to appoint chiefs and magistrates among them, men who had the confidence of their brethren and who deserved the confidence they enjoyed. This they had done and Moses charged these rulers and officers to be faithful in that which was entrusted to them.

“Ye shall not respect persons in judgment; but ye shall hear the small as well as the great; ye shall not be afraid of the face of man; for the judgment is God’s.”

Surely this is wholesome admonition for God’s people in all ages, ourselves especially. There is much of Scripture that is not about us as Christians, but it is all for us.

We are called to be faithful at all times in matters of judgment. Let us suppose the case of a relive, or one whose friendship we have enjoyed, and one who perhaps has done us many favors. A difficulty arises. We are not to allow this friendship or family connection to influence our judgment in the matter. We are not to “respect peons in judgment,” but need to seek grace from the Lord to be faithful, “for the judgment is God’s.” If we, dear young friends, heed the words of Scripture the Lord will be honored and we shall surely have His mercy and blessing.

ML-10/13/1974

Saved From a Tiger

THE TIGER, like the lion, is a giant cat. His coat is of a bright orange-yellow color and covered all over with black stripes. Though big, he can move very swiftly and with a frightening roar he goes bounding over the ground at a tremendous speed.

One hot night in India a missionary lady took her usual walk around the mission school grounds to see that all her little girls were safely in bed. Returning to tier cottage she found a little native girl, named Mary, waiting for her.

“Mother,” said Mary, “I want to be your messenger girl this week,” and spreading her mat on the brick floor she laid down to rest.

“Goodnight, Mary,” said Mother. “Goodnight, Mother,” said Mary and soon they were both asleep.

Suddenly during the night the missionary was awakened by a loud cry. Jumping up she looked for Mary but the little girl was gone.

In the moonlight Mother saw a big tiger outside clawing at a bundle it was Mary!

The missionary lady grasped her flashlight and seizing a big stick she ran towards the tiger screaming at the top of her voice. The frightened tiger fled across the yard and disappeared into a field of sugar cane.

Soon all in the mission school were awake and came running to see what had happened. They found the missionary with little Mary in her arms. The little girl had been badly bitten and mauled by the tiger. They carried her to the mission hospital where the doctor and nurses bound up her wounds and put her to bed.

Afraid that the tiger would come back the next night, the missionary and the girls prayed, asking God to help them to get rid of the great beast. They believed he was asleep in the sugar cane so in the afternoon they prepared to drive him out into the open. A long line of girls surrounded the field on three sides all carrying tin pans. A man with a gun stood at the other end of the field. At a given signal all the girls began to shout and beat on their tin pans, making a great noise.

The sleeping tiger awoke, and, frightened by the noise he went dashing through the sugar cane in the very direction of the man with the gun. Everyone was praying, asking the Lord to help them. Suddenly the great cat emerged from the sugar cane. There was a tremendous bang as the gun went off. And that was the end of Mr. Tiger. No more would he terrorize the village and carry off little girls and boys.

How the missionaries and the little girls thanked God for saving them from the great tiger. To pray to God and ask Him for help is the privilege of all those who know Him as their Saviour. He loves boys and girls and wants to save them not only from their sins but in all the difficulties and dangers of life. The Bible says: “He shall call upon Me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honor him.” Psalm 91:15. Again “Call upon Me in the day of trouble; I will deliver thee and thou shalt glorify Me.” Psalm 50:15.

ML-10/20/1974

Free Rides

ONE DAY our school went down to the shore for our annual picnic. The children had rides on the ponies and paid ten cents apiece.

There was a class of very little folks and they all wanted a pony ride but most of them didn’t have the money to pay. However, there was one kind man there who lived near our home and knew most of the boys. He paid the keeper a sum of money and told all in the class that if they went along they would all have a free ride. How happy the children were and they thanked their friend for his kindness.

The next day our teacher told us that “the rides for nothing” because of “the man who paid” were just like the gospel. We are sinners and had nothing to pay, but the Lord Jesus came from heaven and “paid it all” when He laid down His life for us on the cross. Now because He shed His precious blood, poor and needy sinners may have a free ride to heaven.

However, we must apply for it, just like the children did for the pony ride; we must own ourselves needy with “nothing to pay.” The glad tidings of free salvation with a home in glory at the end is not for the good nor for the righteous but for sinners.

“When they had nothing to pay, he frankly forgave them both.” Luke 7:42.

Nothing to pay — no not a whit;

Nothing to do? — no not a bit;

All that was needed to do or to pay,

Jesus has done in His own blessed way.

Nothing to pay? — no, thanks be to God,

The matter is settled, the price was

THE BLOOD,

The blood of the Victim, a ransom divine—

Believe it, dear sinner, and peace shall be thine.

ML-10/20/1974

John 3:16

THE GOSPEL hall that afternoon was filled with children. The speaker took for his text that wonderful verse John 3:16 and to make it more forcible he wrote it on the blackboard in large letters.

“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.

He told them of God’s love for them in sending His beloved Son for them, that they might have everlasting life. Then just as he was speaking a little girl eight years old got up and said, “Please, sir, did God send His Son to die for me?”

“Oh yes, dear,” he replied; “God did send His Son for you so that you might have everlasting life.”

“So that I might have everlasting life?”

“Yes, if only you will believe on Jesus and what He has done.” “Then I do believe!”

“Do you? Then you have everlasting life.”

“I have it! I have it!” she exclaimed amid her tears. And many more that afternoon were broken down through that little girl’s confession.

She ran home and into her mother’s arms, exclaiming, “Mother, I have it! Mother, I have it!”

“What have you got, Sally?” she asked.

“Why, Mother, I’ve got everlasting life. I’ve been to the meeting and a man told us that God sent His Son to die for us. If we only believe on Him we shall have everlasting life.”

So saying she began to quote John 3:16. Her mother was bewildered and exclaimed, “Where is that, Sally?”

“Why, don’t you know, Mother, it’s in the Bible — John 3:16?”

Her mother broke down and the tears began to flow freely. “Come, Sally,” she said, “let’s go next door and see Mrs. Evans.” So they went and Sally told her story over again. Soon the neighbor was in tears.

“Is there a meeting tonight?” they asked.

“Oh yes,” replied Sally, “at 7:30 and the man wants you to go too.”

They both went and for the first time they heard the gospel telling of God’s love in sending His Son to die for them. They learned that they were sinners, afar off from God. They believed the message, and the result was that both Sally’s mother and her neighbor friend went home that night rejoicing that they had got eternal life.

Now let me ask you, dear reader, Have you got everlasting life? Do you know what it is to feel your need of Jesus. He has died for you, He loves you, and wants to bless you. Then come to Him now. Trust Him, believe in what He has done, and all will be well.

Memory Verse: “WITHOUT SHEDDING OF BLOOD IS NO REMISSION.” Hebrews 9:22.

ML-10/20/1974

Bible Talks: Deuteronomy 1:19-46

“AND WHEN we departed from Horeb, we went through all that great and terrible wilderness.” Here Moses makes Israel realize the power of the hand that led them all along the way those forty long years. “And we came to Kadeshbarnea,” to the mountain of the Amorites.

Moses told them that God had given them that mountain. “Bold,” he said, “The Lord thy God hath set the land before thee: go up and possess it, as the Lord God of thy fathers hath said unto thee; fear not, neither be discouraged.”

But alas, unbelief worked in their hearts. In spite of all the proofs of God’s power and goodness which they had experienced since the day He had brought them out of Egypt, they had no faith to trust Him now. So we read of them wanting to send spies — to see if the land was as good as the Lord had said it was, and how strong were the people in it.

God had sanctioned their sending the spies; it was further proof of the goodness of the land, for the huge bunch of grapes and the fruit they brought back proved that. But they rebelled against the Lord and refused to go up because they said, “The people is greater and taller than we.” In their unbelief they exaggerate saying, “the cities are great and walled up to heaven.”

But more than that they murmured saying, “Because the Lord hated us, He hath brought us forth out of the land of Egypt to deliver us into the hand of the Amorites, to destroy us.” How sad to see the love and care of the Lord counted as hatred. What is the human heart not capable of! “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked.” Jer. 17:9.

Moses had pleaded with the people, saying that the Lord had carried them as a man would carry his son all the way. But nothing could avail. They would not obey the voice of the Lord. So their unbelief shut them out of the land and brought upon them those long years of discipline. The Lord said, “Surely there shall not one of these men of this evil generation see that good land,... save Caleb,... because he hath wholly followed the Lord"... and “Joshua,... which standeth before thee.”

Then the people said, “We have sinned against the Lord, we will go up and fight,” and the men of war prepared to fight. But there was no real work of repentance in their hearts, for when the Lord told them to turn again into the wilderness they rebel again. They would go into the land without God and in their presumption they ascended the hill. But the Amorites came down and chased them as a swarm of bees might. It was a humbling defeat and they came and wept bore the Lord, who would not listen to them.

Unbelief, disobedience and wretchedness are found together. On the other hand where there is confidence in God and submission to His will there will surely be happiness and blessing.

ML-10/20/1974

The Red Boy

“THE RED BOY” is the name of a famous and lovely picture by the great artist, Sir Thomas Lawrence. It is so-called because of the boy’s pretty red suit. Although it was painted more than a century ago, the colors are as radiant as when they were first painted.

The handsome boy in the picture was Charles William Lambton, son of the Earl of Durham. He was just nine years old when the picture was painted. Sad to say, he did not long survive for he died at the age of 13. The brilliant artist also died about the same time.

The picture measures 541/2 by 431/2 inches and when painted cost the Lambton family something over $3,000.00. But a century later the sum of $475,000.00 was offered for it. The offer was refused.

Many a sympathetic heart has been touched by the fact that “The Red Boy” died so young. In spite of his gentle birth, his parents’ long care, his wealthy circumstances and splendid prospects in life, death claimed him at an early age. Death is no respecter of persons. It claims young and old, rich and poor alike, and we are born with the stamp of death already upon us.

When the Lord Jesus was upon earth, He was saddened by the fact that a young girl, an only daughter, about twelve years old had died. Her father was a ruler in the synagogue and he pleaded with the Lord Jesus to make his little girl better. The Lord Jesus gladly responded and went with the father to his home. On the way there they were met by a messenger who said, “Thy daughter is dead, trouble not the Master.”

The poor father was heart-broken but Jesus said to him, “Fear not; believe only, and she shall be made whole.”

When they got to the house Jesus took the little girl by the hand and said, “Maid, arise!” As she stirred from her strange sleep and opened her eyes, the first thing she saw was the dear face of the Saviour, the Friend of children. He then told her parents to give her something to eat — He knew what she needed. You can read the whole story yourself in Luke 8:41-56.

Because the Lord Jesus died for our sins on the cross and by the power of God rose again from the dead, He has taken the sting out of death for everyone who trusts Him as their Saviour. So now when a Christian passes away we can say he or she has “fallen asleep” in Jesus. One day soon when He comes and raises from the dead those who have died in faith, they shall all hear that voice of power and awake to see His blessed face.

Seeing then that time is so uncertain, that life at best is very brief, how needful that we should trust in Jesus NOW, while we are young. He loves all boys and girls, and grown-ups too, just as He did when on earth. He is waiting to give you a loving welcome if you will come to Him now and take Him as your own personal Saviour.

Jesus loves me! this I know,

For the Bible tells me so.

Little ones to Him belong;

They are weak, but He is strong.

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, He will stay

Close beside me all the way.

If I trust Him, should I die

He will take me home on high.

ML-10/27/1974

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.”

What glorious words are these! Seven great facts are here. “God loved” — the most blessed Friend with the largest heart. “The world” — the greatest number of sinners, and enemies too. “Gave His Son” the best of all gifts. “Whosoever” the widest invitation. “Believeth on Him” — the easiest and the only way to be saved. “Should not perish” — the greatest deliverance. “Have everlasting life” — the priceless and richest possession.

How many of you have believed the message of love, received the gift and thanked God for the life? I know many boys and girls who have. They love John 3:16 because it was the verse that led them to the Saviour.

ML-10/27/1974

The Elephant and the Bridge

THE bridge looked all right certainly, but the elephant refused to cross it. What could be the matter? So thought the owner of an elephant in India some years ago. Very frequently he had to cross a certain wooden bridge between his home and the nearest town.

But on this particular day the elephant would not proceed. It tried the weight of its trunk and hesitated to venture further. The man became angry and goaded it on with the little spear he carried, forcing the unwilling animal on to the bridge.

As the middle of the bridge was reached, however, a crack was heard, then another and another, till with a crash the rotten planks gave way, plunging both elephant and driver into the stream below. The man lost his life, because he refused to notice the warning given by the elephant.

Dear reader, what bridge are you trusting on to take you to heaven? If you are trying to get there by your own efforts, your good life or prayers, let me tell you those are rotten planks and will certainly give way beneath you, landing you in a lost eternity. There is only one way to heaven, and that is by trusting in the blood of Jesus, for “there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.” Acts 4:12.

“He is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by Him.” Heb. 7:25. He will never let you go, but will carry you safe home to Himself.

Memory Verse: “A MAN IS NOT JUSTIFIED BY THE WORKS OF THE LAW, BUT BY THE FAITH OF JESUS CHRIST.” Gal. 2:16.

“Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ and thou shalt be saved.”

ML-10/27/1974

The Springing Fountain

Beneath Moriah’s rocky side

A gentle fountain springs,

Whose waters soft and silent glide

Like peace the Spirit brings.

The thirsty Arab stoops to drink

That cool and quiet wave;

O weary singer! Pause and think

Of Him who came to save.

“Siloam” is the fountain’s name;

It means “One sent from God”;

And thus the holy Saviour’s fame

It greatly spreads abroad.

O grant that I, like this sweet well,

May Jesus’ image bear,

And spend my life, my all, to tell

How full His mercies are.

ML-10/27/1974

Bible Talks: Deuteronomy 2

AFTER the sad and humbling defeat at Kadesh, when they were smitten by the Amorites, Moses says, “we turned and took our journey into the wilderness by the way of the Red Sea,... and we compassed Mount Seir many days.”

It was a long weary journey, but how wonderful the grace of God! Moses says, “We turned,” not merely “ye,” for the Lord went with His unfaithful people. And faithful ones, like Moses, Joshua, and Caleb, turned back and went with them. They shared with their brethren the trials, the sorrows and the difficulties of the wilderness way.

What a patient, holy, gracious, loving God Israel had; and Israel’s God is ours. He has said, “I will never leave thee nor forsake thee"; and He has proved Himself true to His word.

It took Israel 38 years to come back to the mountain of the Amorite. All that time the Lord had been with them and they had not lacked anything. But it was during those years the first generation that came out of Egypt passed off the scene. They did not enter the beautiful land — a solemn witness to the unchanging truth that “our God is a consuming fire.”

Then the Lord said to Moses. “Ye have compassed this mountain long enough: turn you northward.... Ye are to pass through the coast of your brethren the children of Esau.... Meddle not with them; for I will not give you of their land.”

The haughty Edomites, descendants of Esau, Jacob’s brother, as also the proud and wicked Moabites and Ammonites, children of Lot, because of their relationship to Israel, were not to be touched. Although not to be destroyed then, their judgment would surely come. Edom’s destruction would be complete (Obadiah 10); the Ammonites would not be remembered among the nations (Ezek. 25:10); and Moab would be a perpetual desolation (Zeph. 2:8,9). All three are reserved for special judgment in the coming crisis for Israel and the nations. God will use His people as the instruments of His vengeance in that day.

It is wonderful to see how God is the disposer of hearts and kept these hostile nations from harming His people as they passed by. “When a man’s ways please the Lord, He maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.” Prov. 16:7.

When they again arrived back at the mountain of the Amorite God said to them, as it were, There is the spot which I promised you bore; go now and take possession of it.

“Rise ye up, take your journey, and pass over the river Arnon: bold, I have given into thine hand Sihon the Amorite, king of Heshbon, and his land.... This day will I begin to put the dread of thee and the fear of thee upon the nations that are under the whole heaven.”

Israel obeyed God this time, and when Sihon came out to fight against them they slew him and all his people, and took possession of all his country. This destruction of the powerful king Sihon was an earnest and pledge of what God would yet do for His people. The triumphs of His grace in the past encourage us to trust Him for all that’s to come.

ML-10/27/1974

The Infidel and the Bible

IN THE days of the “Gold rush” in our Western States two men, one a Christian and the other a pressed infidel, were riding through the woods at dusk. They had missed the trail and with night fast approaching they had real cause for alarm. They rode on however, and finally one of them saw a glimmer of light in the distance. They rode hastily toward it and found it to be a prospector’s cabin. They knocked at the door and were invited in.

There lived here a man past middle age with his two stalwart sons. All of them were rather rough-looking, and on the walls hung guns and other weapons. After hearing the travelers tell their story, the old man said: “Well, strangers, you are welcome to stay with us until you are able to get your bearings. Take your saddle-bags into the back room, while the boys take care of your horses, and come out to supper as soon as you can.”

The two strangers retired to the back room, but as they looked at each other both were evidently quite concerned. Then the infidel whispered, “I don’t like these surroundings. I fear these rough-looking people are hurrying us off to bed and when we are asleep they will kill us, and rob us.” His companion was afraid also.

So they agreed that one would stand guard until midnight while the other slept. Then the other would be on guard until morning. The infidel was to take the first watch so he loaded his pistols and got ready.

Just at that moment they were called to supper. The meal was plain but wholesome, and no one spoke while they were eating.

After supper the old man broke the silence with these words: “Now, gentlemen, it has always been my custom to read a chapter of the Word of God after supper, and if you have no objection I will read now.” The Christian gladly gave his consent, and the infidel seemed pleased and relieved at the suggestion.

The old man reached up to a shelf and pulled down a large well-worn copy of the Word of God, and read a chapter with great reverence. Then he knelt in prayer and thanked God for His kindness and mercy toward them, for the gift of His Son, and for the salvation that was brought about by His death, burial, and resurrection. He thanked God for the day when he as a lost sinner found peace, joy, and rest in trusting His finished work. The old saint (for so he was) prayed further for the two strangers that were under his roof, asking his heavenly Father to bless them, and prosper them on their journey, and guard and guide and protect them; and if they were still strangers to God’s salvation to save them. Finally he asked God that they all might meet on “the golden street of heaven.”

The strangers retired to their room. The infidel quickly got into the bed, threw his heavy coat over himself and was just settling down to sleep when his companion said, “What about our agreement? You were to watch until midnight. What has removed your fears?” The question was to the point, and the infidel could not avoid it, though he would have liked to. He finally had to admit that it was the presence and reading of the Bible and the old man’s prayer that removed his fears. Said the Christian, “Is that not a great testimony for the Bible?” The other had to admit that it was.

Some say this story didn’t end here but that the infidel peered into the sacred pages of God’s Word and had all his fear removed concerning death and hell, by trusting the Lord Jesus Christ as his Saviour.

There is no rest and peace and joy apart from that which was accomplished by “the Cross of Christ.” “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-11/03/1974

Bible Acrostic

The Name of Jacob’s youngest son? (Gen. 35)

A Stone that told what God had done? (1 Sam. 7.)

A Saint who showed great unbelief? (John 20)

One who to God poured out her grief? (1 Sam. 1)

A Man to save his life who fled? (Gen. 19)

A Queen who filled another’s stead? (Esther 2)

A King who had God’s witness slain? (Acts 12)

And One whose prayers stayed the rain? (1 Kings 17)

Who lived the longest here below? (Gen. 5)

The first letters give the place you know. (Matt. 2)

ML-11/03/1974

Isaiah 45:22

“Look unto Me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth.”

Here is the way of life in a nutshell. Who does not understand it? So simple, so sure!

“Look” — the easiest thing to do — not work, not pray, not try, but LOOK. “Unto Me” — the most precious Object — not to men, preachers, parents or friends, but to the Lord Jesus. Just as the bitten Israelite looked to the serpent of brass lifted up on the pole, so the sinner must look to Jesus lifted up on the cross. “Be ye saved” — the sure result. No mere hope or doubt about it in the message, but “be ye saved.” Just what the jailor of Philippi heard: “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.” Acts 16:31.

ML-11/03/1974

A Drunken Husband Saved

A POOR woman, whose husband was a drunkard, bought a Bible. In her sorrow she found comfort in reading its sacred pages and came to love the blessed One she learned about there.

One night her husband came home drunk as usual and found her reading the Bible. Snatching it from her hand, he threw it into the fire. Then he shouted angrily, “Now we will see what will be left of your new religion.”

When he went to start the fire the next morning he found among the ashes a half-burned page of the Bible. As he took it out he read the words, “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but My word shall not pass away.” By now he was sober again and he was filled with sorrow to think that he had tried to destroy the holy Word of God.

He told his wife to buy another Bible, which she did. Then later he began to read it too and soon he turned to the Lord from his sins, received forgiveness and lived a happy useful Christian life from then on.

“Is not My word like as a fire? saith the Lord; and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces?” Jer. 23:29.

ML-11/03/1974

Can You Spell the Name of This City?

Its first letter’s in DEATH, but not in LIFE.

Its second in WAR, but not in STRIFE.

Its third in NEED, but not in CARE.

Its whole a place where idols were. (1 Kings 12)

ML-11/03/1974

Wendy's Garden

WENDY is a little friend of mine. She has a little plot of ground her Daddy gave her in which to make a garden.

For the first few weeks Wendy gave great attention to her little garden, watering her plants and pulling out the weeds. But after a while she became careless and was more interested in playing with her friends than looking after her garden. The watering and weeding were neglected, her flowers drooped and died, and the weeds grew tall and choked the rest of the plants.

So it often is with the garden of the soul. When boys and girls are newly saved, they are very attentive to reading the Word of God and to prayer by which their souls are watered. They are careful to root out evil habits and nip off bad companionships which are as weeds to the new life.

But alas, some become careless, and the watering and the weeding cease. The fruits of the new life wither, their first love grows cold, and sometimes old habits and old companions are loved again. Do you know any one who has such a garden?

I know some bright young Christian boys and girls who go on waring and weeding, and the result is that they grow happier and brighter as the years go by, just as a well-kept garden blooms and bears fruit better year after year.

See to it, dear young Christian friend, that you do not neglect the watering and the weeding in your life.

ML-11/03/1974

Bible Talks: Deuteronomy 3:1-20

NEXT Moses recounts of how they turned “and went up the way to Bashan: and Og the king of Bashan came out against us, he and all his people, to battle at Edrei. And the Lord said unto me, Fear him not: for I will deliver him, and all his people, and his land, into thy hand... and we smote him until none was left to him raining.”

They took all his cities, 70 all told, cities fenced with high walls, gates and bars; besides unwalled towns a great many. Thus the judgment on the giant king of Bashan and his mighty people was utter destruction. The half tribe of Manasseh took over “the land of the giants.”

Many of the dwellings of the giant race remain until the present day, a silent but powerful witness to the divine accuracy of this book of God. Massive dwellings still exist, built of huge blocks of black stone, with great doors, gates and enormous bars by which they were secured. Travelers have said that they are just such structures as a race of giants would rear up. The rich and fertile country, and the power and strength of the people are frequently referred to in the Psalms and elsewhere.

Verse 11 is of special interest where we read that the bedstead of Og, the last of the giants, was of iron. It was about 13 ½ feet in length and 6 feet wide.

No matter how great and powerful men may be in the world, how foolish for them to oppose God and His people. Israel had spoken peaceably to Sihon, but he turned on them to his own destruction. It was largely so with Og. God gave Israel victory over these great powers because of their obedience and the great destruction of their enemies was a pledge and earnest of what He would yet do for His people.

The oaks of Bashan (Isa, 2:13; Zech. 11:2) in Scripture speak of great strength and loftiness of men which God in His judgment humbles and lays low. Bulls of Bashan speak of strong ruthless enemies whom God will judge. The blessed Lord, when hanging on the cross, spoke of the leaders and great ones who put Him there as “strong bulls of Bashan.” They beset Him round and gaped upon Him with their mouths, “as a ravening and a roaring lion.”

When the children of Israel had conquered these mighty nations, then the people of those nations across the Jordan in Canaan began to fear and tremble. God told Israel not to fear their enemies. If we are obedient and walk to please Him, He will give us the victory. Let us always fear God, but not men! “The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the Lord shall be safe.” Prov. 29:25.

Memory Verse: “IS NOT MY WORD LIKE AS A FIRE? SAITH THE LORD; AND LIKE A HAMMER THAT BREAKETH THE ROCK IN PIECES?” Jer. 23:29.

ML-11/03/1974

A Little Japanese Girl

A LITTLE girl in Japan lay for two years in a T B Sanitarium. Her little body was so thin and frail that she could hardly move in bed.

One day some Christian workers visited the hospital and left her a gospel tract. She was not able to hold it but a kind nurse propped it up on a stand and turned the pages one by one so that she could read them.

As she read and re-read that simple gospel message it gripped her heart. She prayed, asking the nurse to help her by standing by to hear her voice in prayer. She asked the Lord for forgiveness for her sins and God heard her prayer. The little sick patient was wonderfully saved.

Now she wanted to share her newfound joy in her Saviour with others. She read in the newspaper of a man named Iwata, condemned to death for murder. She decided to write him and tell him about Jesus. It took her three days to write one page, with what little strength she had but at last she got it finished. Then she sent off her letter enclosing the tract which had been given to her.

The hardened criminal was indignant when he first read the letter, but later as he re-read it his heart softened as he thought how much that letter had meant to the little girl who had sent it to him. He was touched to think that some one cared enough for him to write him a letter at such cost.

He began to read the tract. Over and over again he read it, the truth began to dawn on his soul and filly he believed it. God entered that Tokyo prison and saved that condemned murderer, through the witness of that almost helpless little patient in the sanitarium.

Sometime later the converted murderer was taken to another prison hundreds of miles away and placed in “death’s row” prior to his execution. One day he was singing a gospel hymn which he had learned from some Christians who visited the jail at times. As his lonely cell echoed with the Lord’s praises, he heard a voice call through the “peep hole” to the next cell. It was the voice of another man, named Uchida, who had also found Christ as his Saviour. What joy the two Christian prisoners now had as they talked together of Christ and the home above they were going to.

Iwata and Uchida began to pray and work for the salvation of the other men in death’s row. The warden gave them permission to share their testimony for Christ with other prisoners when they were all together at meal time. As a result 41 Condemned prisoners were won to the Saviour in the two years that Iwata was in death’s row. They wanted to be baptized and the warden permitted them to use the prison bathtub for baptismal services. The whole atmosphere of the prison changed from frenzy and fright to Christian joy and peace. As the guards made their rounds along the corridors they could hear gospel hymns coming from the cells.

At last the time came for Iwata to die for his crime. As his last request, he asked that he might be taken to the T B Sanitarium to see the little girl who had first written him the letter and sent him the gospel tract. His request was granted.

Standing beside her bed, he told the story of what her letter and tract had done for him and his friends, through the saving power of the Lord Jesus Christ. Tears poured down her cheeks as she heard the story of what God’s love had done. Laying his hand upon her head he then prayed for the Lord’s blessing upon the poor little sufferer. He returned to the prison with joy, and soon after was at home with the Lord whom he loved, and who had died to bring him there.

“God hath chosen the weak things of the world” (1 Cor. 1:27), to perform some of His mightiest works. So may the story of the little Japanese girl encourage all of us who are His to send out the gospel and to pray for the lost and perishing all around us.

“O God,... send out Thy light and Thy truth.” Psalm 43:1,3. “Blessed are all they that put their trust in Him.” Psa. 2:12.

ML-11/10/1974

A Saving Word

A Mount on which a king was slain? (1 Samuel 31)

A Bride brought home with camel train? (Genesis 24)

A Brook dried up through want of rain? (1 Kings 17)

A Queen who for her people prayed,

And by her means had judgment stayed? (Esther 7)

Initials form a precious word,

Which those know best who trust the Lord.

Memory Verse: “BUT NOW ONCE IN THE END OF THE WORLD HATH HE APPEARED TO PUT AWAY SIN BY THE SACRIFICE OF HIMSELF.” Heb. 9:26

ML-11/10/1974

Harry and the Bird

ONE DAY Harry caught a little bird. As he held it in his hands the poor little thing struggled and tried to get away. A kind-looking man came along and seeing the little captive he pleaded with Harry to let it go.

“No,” was Harry’s firm reply. “I tried for hours to catch him and I’m not going to let him go.”

Then the kind man offered to buy the bird. “I’ll give you a quarter for it,” he said.

Harry accepted the offer and the little bird changed hands.

The man set the bird on his opened hand and waited for it to fly away. At first it did not realize it was free, but presently it stirred, stretched its little wings and flew away to a nearby tree where it stayed a while chirping excitedly. It seemed to say, “Oh thank you! Thank you! I’m free.”

When the Lord Jesus came into this world He went about making people happy, setting them free from sin and from Satan’s power. And though He is now in heaven He is still carrying on His blessed work of redeeming souls. He paid the price of our redemption when He died and shed His precious blood upon the cross. Those who trust Him as Saviour are His redeemed ones.

The Bible says, “Ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold... but with the precious blood of Christ.” 1 Peter 1:18,19. Are you one of His redeemed ones? Then let us all, like the little bird, join in thanking and praising Him for all He has done for us.

ML-11/10/1974

The Door

“I AM the door: by Me if any 1 man enter in he shall be saved.” John 10:9.

These words were spoken by the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of God.

A door means the way into some place. So the way to be saved is to believe in Jesus. He is such a wonderful Saviour, that the Bible tells us that “Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Rom. 10:13.

No matter how wonderful the inside of a building is, you cannot get in to enjoy it unless you enter in through the door.

I was standing outside a large building once, and a gentleman came up and asked me where the door was. When I told him, all he did was to thank me and walk away. I suppose he meant to come back later, but God does not want you to come back later. He wants you to come to the Saviour now. For He tells us that “Now is the accepted time... now is the day of salvation.” 2 Cor. 6:2.

Another thing about it is that to put your trust in the Lord Jesus Christ is the only way into blessing. If I left my front door wide open for you to come in, and then found you trying to climb in through the window or some other way, I should be very vexed.

God says, “Neither is there salvation in any other, for there is NONE OTHER NAME... whereby we must be saved.” Acts 4:12.

ML-11/10/1974

Correction

We are sorry for an error in September 22 issue. Page 1, column 2, line 28 should read: “If they do not awaken to their danger...”

ML-11/10/1974

Bible Talks: Deuteronomy 3:21-29

AFTER seeing what God had done to those two mighty kings, Sihon and Og, whom He completely destroyed, Moses encouraged Joshua saying, So shall the Lord do unto all the kingdoms whither thou passest. Ye shall not fear them; for the Lord your God He shall fight for you.”

At this time Moses besought the Lord and said, “O Lord God,... I pray Thee, let me go over, and see the good land that is beyond Joan, that goodly mountain, and Lebanon.” But God refused telling him not to speak any more of this matter.

God would have His people learn a lesson from His ways with Moses. By that one act of disobedience Moses lost Canaan and Israel would understand that only an obedient people could possess and enjoy that good land. If they were disobedient, they too would lose Canaan.

However, God told Moses to go up to the top of Pisgah and look away to the west, to the north, to the south and to the east. He saw that beautiful country with his own eyes. After those forty years in the wilderness that must have been a thrilling moment to Moses when he feasted his eyes on the goodly land, while no doubt thoughts of coming glories filled his soul when the redeemed of the Lord should walk there and they should “see the King in His beauty.” But Moses’ feet were not to tread Canaan’s soil and this was a great sorrow to his heart.

Here Moses reminds the people that their unbelief and rebellion were the occasion of his failure, when he spoke “unadvisedly with his lips.” Still he desires in the fullest way that they might enter in and enjoy what he cannot.

God told Moses to encourage Joshua and to strengthen him, for it was he that should go over before the people and lead them to inherit the land, and this he did. How sweet it is to find one who has come under the government of God not fretting or rebelling under it, but in quiet submission, knowing it is a hand of love that deals with us and at the same time seeking to encourage others in the path of faithfulness and obedience to Him. This was grace in Moses’ heart and surely written for our learning.

Moses was for the wilderness, and Joshua as captain of the Lord’s host was for the land. Both these two types center in Christ.

Moses had led the people out of Egypt, but not as the law-giver there, for the law did not come in until later when they were at Sinai. Law never delivered God’s people from Egypt nor took them into Canaan. Sovereign grace and power were needed for both. Faith in Christ as Saviour, whose blood has answered to God for all his sins, delivers one now from judgment, from the world, and from Satan’s power. To realize that he has died and risen with Christ brings one into the enjoyment of our heavenly blessings in Him above.

ML-11/10/1974

Anna's Prayer

YEARS AGO a little girl named Anna lived alone with her father. Her mother had died so she was very lonely much of the time.

Anna’s father had given her a gold locket containing a picture of her mother. It hung on a golden chain and he told Anna to wear it every day.

One day when her father was away on a trip, she put her hand to her neck and discovered her chain and locket were gone. Now Anna’s father was a very stern man and the little girl was afraid for she knew her father would punish her for losing her treasure. Poor little girl! She had no one to confide in and she felt so lonely.

Two or three days passed. Anna had searched everywhere for the locket but without success. Her father would be home the next day and she was terribly frightened. As she was going to bed that evening a thought came into her mind. No one had ever told her much about God, she did not know that He loved her or that the Lord Jesus had died for her, but she just wondered if she told Him her trouble would He help her. So kneeling down she asked Him to help her find the locket. “O Lord,” she said, “If Thou wilt not help me, nobody else can.”

She went to bed that night comforted and slept. In the morning, when she opened one of her drawers, there, just inside, was the locket!

Her heart was so full of thanksgiving to God for helping her. How the missing locket got there was a great mystery to her, but Anna didn’t trouble about that.

The Lord has said, “Call upon Me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify Me.” Psalm 50:15.

Years passed. Anna had come to know Christ as her Saviour and she lived to serve Him. One day when she was visiting in the slum district of a big city she found there a poor dying woman. To her surprise the women recognized her and told her that she had been a housemaid in Anna’s home years before and that it was she who had stolen the locket. So miserable did she feel about the theft that at night when the child was asleep she had stolen quietly into her room and placed the locket in the drawer. With what joy could Anna point the poor dying sinner to the Saviour whose blood cleanses from all sin.

The Lord Jesus is the only Saviour, and there is no Friend or Helper like Him. He makes all things work together for good to those that love Him (Rom. 8:28). Then let us trust Him for everything — for forgiveness of sins, for power to live and do what is pleas-to Him, and for all our needs both now and forever.

ML-11/17/1974

A New Testament Word

Where one who served the Church abode, (Rom. 16)

Who for his pride was smote by God? (Acts 12)

Whose words did Absalom disdain? (2 Sam. 17)

Who watched her sons in Gibeah slain? (2 Samuel)

Who mocked his younger brother’s claim? (Genesis 27)

Who from the dead was raised again? (Acts 9)

What did King Saul in pieces rend,

And round the coasts of Israel send? (1 Samuel 21)

Initial letters all combined produce what suffers and is “kind.”

ML-11/17/1974

Iokobo

Years ago a missionary in New Guinea translated two of the Gospels into Tavaro, the native language. They were keenly appreciated by the natives.

One old chief, Iokobo, who received a copy of Mark, was so anxious to read it, and was so envious of the children in his village who could, that in the space of six months he learned to read it for himself. He would take his precious copy of Mark into his garden and read it there while he rested. He used to cut little sticks of dry wood and at night he would light them one by one, while he sat and pored over the words of the Saviour.

How this old chief treasured those Scriptures! He puts to shame many of us who possess copies of the entire Word of God.

How good to see those who love their Bibles and spend time reading and pondering its sacred pages.

“Thy words were found and I did eat them: and Thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart.” Jer. 15:16.

Memory Verse: “BEHOLD, THE LORD’S HAND IS NOT SHORTENED, THAT IT CANNOT SAVE; NEITHER HIS EAR HEAVY, THAT IT CANNOT HEAR.” Isa. 59:1

ML-11/17/1974

The Kite; Pride Must Have a Fall.

Once on a time a paper kite

Was mounted to a wondrous height,

Where, giddy with its elevation,

It thus expressed self-admiration:—

“See how you crowds of gazing people,

Admire my flight above the steeple!

How would they wonder if they knew

All that a kite like me can do!

Were I but free, I’d take a flight,

And pierce the clouds beyond their sight;

But, ah! like a poor prisoner bound,

My string confines me near the ground.

I’d brave the eagle’s towering wing,

Might I but fly without a string.”

It tugged and pulled while thus it spoke

To break the string—at last it broke.

Deprived at once of all its stay.

In vain it tried to soar away;

Unable its own weight to bear,

It flutter’d downward through the air:

Unable its own course to guide,

The winds soon plunged it in the tide.

Ah! foolish kite, thou hadst no wing,

How couldst thou fly without a string?

My heart replied, “O Lord, I see

How much this kite resembles me;

Forgetful that by Thee I stand,

Impatient of Thy ruling hand,

How oft I’ve wished to break the lines,

Thy wisdom for my lot assigns,

How oft indulged a vain desire

For something more, or something higher;

And but for grace and love divine,

A fall thus dreadful had been mine.”

Olney Hymns.

ML-11/17/1974

A Heart at Rest

One boy we know goes to sleep at night with his New Testament under his pillow. When he wakes in the morning his first act is to read a portion from the Word. Surely such time is well spent. The Word of God is unlike any other book, it is the living Word. The more we read it the dearer it becomes, if we seek to walk in the light it sheds along our pathway. King David of old wrote: “The statutes of the Lord are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the Lord is pure, enlightening the eyes... More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. Moreover by them is thy servant warned: and in keeping of them there is great reward” (Psa. 19:8-11).

ML-11/17/1974

Bible Talks: Deuteronomy 4:1-8

THE FIRST three chapters of Deuteronomy give us the groundwork for the great moral instructions in the rest of the book. The failures recounted in the first chapter resulted from lack of confidence in God. Then in chapters 2 and 3 we have the victories of faith — the result of confidence in God. After this Israel is called to hearken unto the statutes and judgments of the Lord.

“Now therefore hearken, O Israel, unto the statutes and unto the judgments, which I teach you, for to do them, that ye may live, and go in and possess the land which the Lord God of your fathers giveth you.”

Obedience and uncompromising loyalty to God and His Word are enjoined on Israel. They were to hold fast the Word of the Lord, not to tamper with it — not to add to it nor take away from it. To add to it would be to exalt man’s word and make it equal to God’s; to take away from it would be to reduce God’s Word to man’s. Israel’s history is the sad tale of their disobedience in this very thing. In the gospels the Lord denounces the Pharisees for setting aside the Word of God and teaching the commandments of men. “Full well ye reject the commandment of God, that ye may keep your own tradition.... Making the word of God of none effect through your tradition.” Mark 7:9,13.

In our day the Word of God is mutilated and many of its sacred passages are declared to be myths. How solemn the word in Revelation 22:18,19: “If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book; and if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city.” May we be found clinging to this blessed Book, dear young Christian, and hold it as the Word of the living God from cover to cover.

Israel were told to keep and to do the commandments of God. “For this is your wisdom and understanding in the sight of the nations, which shall hear all these statutes, and say, Surely this great nation is a wise and understanding people.”

It is indeed our wisdom to walk in obedience to the Word. Even a child who walks in simple, unquestioning obedience to the Word of God is kept. He need not learn about all the evil things in the world to escape them, but by reading his Bible and seeking to walk in obedience, he will be preserved amid all the dangers and snares that abound on every hand.

What is sweeter and simpler than to know that an all-wise Father, who loves us perfectly, has not left us to take one step according to our own wisdom. He who gave His blessed Son to die for us has not only provided for our eternal salvation, but in His Word has graciously marked out the pathway through this world too.

ML-11/17/1974

A Fire Walker Saved

ESTHER was a famous fire walker among the Hindu Indians living in South Africa.

While still in her teens, she began to practice fortune telling and sorcery. She made such a good living at it that she continued her practices after she was married, going deeper and deeper into the mysteries of the occult.

She found that when possessed by demons she could do amazing things. At times, while standing bore a great crowd, when the evil spirits entered her body, she would begin to writhe furiously and four men could scarcely restrain her.

Then barefoot she would walk across a shallow pit filled with red hot coals. The amazing thing was there were no burns or signs of injury on her feet afterward.

Her next act was to step onto shoe soles or sandals into which nails had been driven. The nails pierced the bottoms of her feet but she walked along unharmed and unconcerned, leading the crowd to the Hindu Temple where they would worship and praise the unseen spirits.

This went on for years and then one day her fourteen-year-old son stopped outside a Christian mission hall. He liked the singing that came from inside and going in he heard the words, “What can wash away my sin? Nothing but the blood of Jesus.”

Convicted of his sin and convinced of the power of Jesus to cleanse and save him, he opened his heart to Him and was wonderfully saved. His heart filled with joy and peace he went home to tell his pants and his sister. The little group of Christians who attended the mission began to pray for this family and soon they were all coming to the gospel services. God worked mightily in their souls and one after another accepted Christ as their Saviour, and all were baptized.

But Esther’s conversion aroused the hatred and fury of the enemy. Her conversion made a greater impact than her fire walking. Some of the priests threatened to kill her, but she fearlessly clung to her faith in Christ.

Those who looked for thrills searched in vain at the heathen festivals for the sight of her amazing activities. Esther now worships the true God. Her face displays the tender love of Christ and she tirelessly witnesses of her Saviour by distributing gospel tracts. No longer filled with the evil spirits, her body is now the dwelling place of the Spirit of God.

Memory Verse: “WHO IS A GOD LIKE UNTO THEE, THAT PARDONETH INIQUITY, AND... DELIGHTETH IN MERCY.” Micah 7:18

ML-11/24/1974

Vanheim's Discovery

In the city of Rotterdam there lived a man whose work it was to load and unload many of the ships that came up the canal.

One busy day he noticed that a wooden case had been badly damaged in shipping, and that some of its contents were falling out. They proved to be portions of Holy Scripture, printed in England in the Dutch language sent out by the Bible Society. Vanheim reported the damage and went home, but not before he had read certain words from one of the gospel portions. He read: “Heaven and earth shall pass away, but My word shall not pass away.”

Vanheim thought: “These are the words of the Lord Jesus Christ. And if this be true, how do I stand in regard to all that He has said and did when He was here?”

From that time he read the Scriptures with a new understanding. He knew that his previous devotions, however, sincere, could not save his soul. He learned that salvation is, “not of works lest any man should boast,” but is all of grace, the free unmerited gift of God, through Jesus the Redeemer. He learned that, “if any man be in Christ, he is a new creation.”

What God did for Vanheim, He can do for you, dear reader.

ML-11/24/1974

A Shoemaker and a Tract

Someone gave a shoemaker a gospel tract one day. He did not read it, nor did he throw it away; instead he used it as part of a sole lining in a shoe he was repairing.

Some months later when the shoes needed new soles again, the owner sent them to another shoemaker. The shoemaker took out the old worn-out sole, and to his surprise he found a printed leaflet inside.

He read the title and became interested. It was a message from God for his soul. It made him realize that he was a sinner, and needed salvation. The gospel tract turned his eyes to the Lord Jesus the only Saviour, whom He claimed as his own, and peace and joy now filled his heart.

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

ML-11/24/1974

Giuseppe

GIUSEPPE lived in a slum alley in Venice, where the sunlight penetrated for about one hour of the day. As the boy had no garden his playground was not more than eight feet wide. What games he played there I cannot say, but I do know that he was fond of reading, and since no money ever came his way, he was obliged to beg or borrow anything he read.

But Giuseppe found a friend who not only told him the most fascinating stories that he had ever heard, but occasionally he gave him little booklets. It was in one of these that one day he read his own name. It was in a story of a Man named Jesus who went about doing good, bringing people a message of life and hope, and even forgiving their sins!

And then, to read that such a Man was crucified! How strangely thrilling to read on that a man named Giuseppe (Italian for Joseph) had provided a private burial place for this great Benefactor! And it was a greater thrill to discover that He who died rose again, and, as young Giuseppe’s friend explained, was now alive forevermore!

There was one thing, however, that troubled Giuseppe. He knew that he was a sinner. Now he had been taught that the only way to get one’s sins forgiven was to go and confess them to men. “No,” said Monaco, Giuseppe’s friend, “all you need is Jesus. He can and will forgive all your sins when you confess them to Him.”

One day there was a very dark shadow in the alley. Young Giuseppe was dying. “Do you want to confess your sins to ‘someone'?” his father asked him.

“No,” said the lad faintly, “Jesus is mine, and He has forgiven me all my sins. I’m going home to be with Him.”

And so Giuseppe passed out of the shadows of the slums into the glorious eternal sunshine of the Saviour’s presence.

“I, even I, am He that blotteth out thy transgressions for Mine own sake, and will not remember thy sins.” Isa. 43:25.

ML-11/24/1974

Bible Talks: Deuteronomy 4:41-5:29

IN THE END of the chapter Moses separated three cities on the east side of the Jordan as cities of refuge for the manslayer, “which should kill his neighbor unawares, and hated him not in times past; and that fleeing unto one of these cities he might live.” The Levites lived in those cities and they showed that God took possession of the land he had given to Reuben, Gad, and the half tribe of Manasseh.

These cities of refuge have come before us a number of times in the books of Moses. They speak of the refuge that God has provided in this world for His people, Israel, who have slain their Messiah. In answer to the Lord’s prayer on the cross, “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do,” God has in grace changed the charge of mrduer to manslaughter. But they must wait until Christ as the great High Priest comes back before they can be restored to the land of their possession. God is preserving them until that day.

Those cities of refuge, appointed of God before Israel ever entered Canaan, typically, are like watchtowers in the land round about Zion, now desolate. Though the land may be in ruins and her people scattered, yet those cities of refuge witness to the unchanging grace of God who will yet make Jerusalem a praise in the earth (Isa. 62:7). They are His pledge that nothing that has happened in the past nor anything that shall come to pass in the future shall thwart His purposes of love toward His own.

How rich are the Old Testament’s Scriptures with displays of His grace, with visions of coming glory, while bringing home to our hearts what a God and Father is ours!

In chapter 5 Moses tells the people about the covenants of law that God made with them on Mount Sinai, and thus the Ten Commandments are repeated.

Moses told them this covenant was not only made with their fathers who died in the wilderness, but also with themselves who were alive that day. He spoke as if the Ten Commandments and all that we read of in the book of Exodus had been said to them, who were there waiting to enter Canaan. Most of them were but children when Moses went up into the mountain, when there was the terrible thunder and lightning, and God spoke.

But God means every single person to listen to His words, as if they were all said to himself. So Moses repeated to the people all that God had taught their fathers in the wilderness, and told them that if they wanted to be blessed and to live long in the land they must keep all the commandments of the Lord. Oh how He earnestly desired their blessing, for He said: “Oh that there were such a heart in them, that they would fear Me, and keep all My commandments always, that it might be well with them, and with their children forever.” v. 29.

ML-11/24/1974

Tom's Wonderful Find

TOM WAS an office clerk in Kisumu, a town on Lake Victoria, in Africa. One evening when he was riding his bicycle home from work he made a wonderful discovery.

As he was riding along he noticed the car in front of him seemed to be in trouble. Its gears made a terrible noise. In the car were two ladies whom Tom recognized as Christian teachers who went about the schools telling the children about the Lord.

Suddenly a piece of paper flew out of the car window, and one of the ladies made a vain attempt to catch it. Blown by the wind the paper fell to the road in front of Tom. Stopping and jumping off his bike he picked up the leaflet thinking it might be something important. On the front cover were the words, “Four Things God Wants You To Know!”

“This looks interesting,” Tom thought. And he sat down by the roadside to read the message.

It was a gospel tract and as he read it through he discovered that God loved him and sent His Son the Lord Jesus to die for his sins. Now Tom knew he was a sinner and this seemed to be just the message for him at that time. “This is wonderful,” he exclaimed aloud.

He thought much about the message of that little leaflet that night. A sense of the love of God filled his heart and a peace which passeth all understanding.

The next day with this new peace in his heart he wanted to tell everyone he met of the wonderful Saviour he had found in Jesus. A few days later he stood up before a crowd and told them how God had spoken to him and that he had learned the four things He wanted Tom to know.

Now there are many other wonderful things God wants us to know, but Tom had made a good start. He had come to know Christ Jesus, and was on his way to heaven.

“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.

“These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life.” 1 John 5:13.

ML-12/01/1974

The Happy Land

A YOUNG man was hunting deer in the mountains of Virginia one day when he heard a sweet voice singing an old hymn.

There is a happy land,

Far, far away,

Where saints in glory stand,

Bright, bright as day.

Oh, how they sweetly sing!

Worthy is the Saviour King!”

Loud let His praises ring,

Praise. praise for aye!

Curious to see who the singer was, he turned in the direction from whence the voice came. There in the clearing was an old log cabin. Outside with her hands in her washtub was Auntie, an old negro lady, her hair white as snow, and singing away for sheer joy of heart. The young college student stood enchanted at the sight.

But then he found out that old Auntie was also blind. Nevertheless she turned her sightless eyes heavenward and the hills and valleys rang with her joyful voice. Now she was singing:

We are feeding on the Living Bread,

We’re drinking at the Fountain head;

“And whoso drinketh,” Jesus said,

“Shall, never, never thirst again.”

We’re marching through

Immanuel’s ground,

And soon shall hear the trumpet’s sound,

And then we shall with Jesus reign,

And never, never part again.

“Auntie,” said the young student to her at last, “You are blind!”

“No sir,” she replied. “I’m not blind. I can’t see you nor these trees, nor the rocks nor the mountains, but I can see on into the kingdom. I can see that ‘happy land, far, far away.’ "

Impressed with what he saw and heard, the young student from then on became deeply concerned about the needs of his soul and about heaven and hell. He became convicted of his sin and he didn’t rest until he found peace through trusting in the Lord Jesus as his Saviour. Later on he became a preacher of the gospel and he often told the story of how the echo of the old blind lady’s song still followed him.

“He brought me up also out of a horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings. And He hath put a new song in my mouth, even praise unto our God.” Psalm 40:2,3.

“And they sung a new song, sang, Thou art worthy...: for Thou wast slain, and Nast redeemed us to God by Thy blood out of every kindred, and tongue, and people, and nation.”

Memory Verse: “WE BELIEVE THAT JESUS DIED AND ROSE AGAIN.” 1 Thess. 4:14.

ML-12/01/1974

Father's Knee Prints

JIM’S FATHER had passed away just four days ago. Mother was left with the seven children and Jim was the only one who had not yield his heart to the Saviour.

Jim knew his father had gone to be with the Lord for he had borne a bright Christian testimony before his family and the neighbors as well. Jim remembered how his dad loved to look out of the window of the old farm house across the green meadows and the fields of waving grain. But suddenly he was gone. Jim had no doubt that his father was, “with Christ, which is far better.”

Jim knew he was the only member of the family that was not yet ready to follow where his father had gone. With these thoughts filling his mind, he wandered off to the barn. Suddenly he stopped. There in the hay before him were the distinct imprints of a pair of knees. They were his father’s, and Jim knew that he had prayed for him there that last morning he was here on earth. A moment later his own knees were down in his father’s knee prints, and kneeling there he yielded his “broken and contrite heart” to his father’s God.

God who never turned anyone away, met Jim there on the barn floor and saved him. He knew that the great question was settled at last — his sins were gone. He had found Christ. Now he was bound up in that same bundle of life with his father and mother and all his sisters and brothers.

Jim paced up and down the barn floor for some time scarce able to contain the joy of heaven that filled and overflowed his soul. Then he rushed back to the house. As he entered the door his mother looked into his face and before he could say anything she cried, “Oh, Jim, I’m so glad!” She read in his face the wonderful change that had taken place.

And in that home the sorrow after the funeral was suddenly turned into joy which only those know who belong to the family of God.

“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Rom. 6:23.

ML-12/01/1974

Bible Talks: Deuteronomy 4:9-40

WHAT MADE Israel so great, above all nations, was the presence of the Lord, the living God. He was nigh unto them at all times, ready to meet every need and to answer whenever they would call upon Him. (v. 7). We as Christians know Him better and have proved His love in a richer and more wonderful way.

Furthermore, Israel was the only nation under heaven who had had such righteous statutes and holy judgments given to them (v. 8). What honor and privileges He had put upon them!

The great point of this chapter is attention to the Word of God, and this carries all through the book. The words “commandments,” “statutes,” &., occur more frequently in Deuteronomy than in any other portion of Scripture, except in the book of the Psalms. What a place the Word of God should have in the life of the believer. “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path,” Psalm 119:105. We ought to read it faithfully morning and night.

After this comes a solemn warning against idolatry. It is entirely forbidden. Moses reminds the people of the day when the Lord spoke out of the fire in Mount Horeb, when they saw nothing, but only heard a voice. God did not permit them to see anything because His Word was enough. If they had seen anything in the Mount they might try to make something like it. The one true God who had spoken to them was not to be represented by works of men’s hands.

How sad to think that idol worship will yet be established in these Christian lands (Rev. 13; Dan. 11:36-39). Satan is busy preparing the world for it now, and his chief instrument is the false, idolatrous, professing church.

Christianity presents a Saviour to faith, not to sight. We walk by faith, not by sight. One day soon we shall suddenly be called away from earth and gaze into the face of that blessed One who has loved us, and whom we long to see. Then faith shall give place to sight, and prayer to praise.

Moses told the people that God was a jealous God because He loved them and wanted them for Himself. But he warned them that if they went after other gods to worship them, He would have to drive them out of that good land He was giving them. They would bow down to idols in a far off land and suffer the sad results of their choice.

Nevertheless if in the land of their captivity, they turned to Him with all their heart, He would hear them. How gracious God is! Even if it takes sorrow and trouble to turn us back to Him, He will hear us when we do.

Long years later, when Israel was suffering for their rebellion, the Lord reminds them, “I have loved thee with an everlasting love, therefore with loving kindness have I drawn thee.” Jer. 31:3. What a day is coming when He will give them a new heart, and having turned them back to Himself, they shall respond to His love in grateful homage and praise.

How wonderful the grace of God to give His people this little glimpse of His restoring grace and their future blessing before they had even entered the land or had been driven out of it.

ML-12/01/1974

The Artist and the Gypsy Girl

MANY YEARS AGO the artist Stenburg stood in his studio in Dusseldorf. He had just promised to provide a painting of the crucifixion for a church building. It was to be a masterpiece, and he would be paid a big price for his work.

In the weeks that followed Stenburg searched out all he could of the facts of the death of Jesus. He was talented; he was famous; he was becoming wealthier every year. But Stenburg did not have peace.

The first brushful of color touched the canvas, then another, and another. One day the cross stood stark and upright on Calvary’s hill. Day after day Stenburg’s brush caressed the canvas.

Then suddenly he was tired. “I’ll forget this,” he declared. “I’ll walk out to the country and sketch.”

It was spring and the woods were green. At the edge of the forest Stenburg stopped. There a gypsy girl plaited a straw basket. Blue-black hair reached her waist; her red dress was faded and torn. Her eyes were black, large, and restless.

“What a painting!” thought Stenburg.

The girl stared up at the artist. She smiled, threw her straw down, sprang up and raised her hands high above her head. She twirled and danced gaily in front of him.

“Stand,” cried Stenburg. The girl dropped her arms. “This week you must come to my studio; I’ll paint you.”

“But, Signor,” the girl said shyly, “I’m only a poor gypsy girl.”

“Come,” he said. And she came, in her red dress, with her hair tucked back with a flower. Stenburg was ready. “Stand! Sit!” he commanded.

Pepita had never been in an artist’s studio before. Her questions amused Stenburg. But suddenly her eyes stopped at the painting of the Crucifixion. It was almost completed.

“Who is it?” she asked.

“The Christ,” the artist said, carelessly.

“But what are they doing to Him?”

“Crucifying Him,” he answered.

“But who are those cruel people?”

Stenburg threw his brush down. “Now look here,” he said. “You stand there... still... and do not move your lips to speak.”

Pepita closed her lips. But her eyes never left the crucifixion.

Posing for the day was over. At the door, Pepita stopped. “Was He bad?” she asked.

“No, no; very good,” Stenburg said. “Remember! Be here the day after tomorrow.”

Each day that she came, she asked another question. “If He was good, why did they do it?”

Stenburg tipped his head to one side. “Listen! I will tell you once for all.” Hurriedly, he repeated the facts of Christ’s death, and as he talked he saw her black eyes fill with tears.

One day, both paintings were fished — the one of the crucifixion and the Spanish dancing girl. For the last time Pepita came to the studio. When she saw herself on the canvas, she clapped her hands with pleasure. Then she walked over to the other painting and stood silently. She turned to Stenburg. “You must love Him very much, Signor, when He has done all that for you; do you not?” Then she was gone.

Stenburg stood looking after her; but the street noises refused to drown out the sound of Pepita’s voice: “Love Him very much when He has done so much for you.”

But all week, he heard the question: “You must love Him very much, do you not?” His restlessness, his dissatisfaction grew. He could stand no more. He tried going to church, but his heart was still tormented.

The he determined to present his masterpiece to the church at a fraction of its cost. “But even such a wonderful gift as this brought him no peace. Stenburg knew God was not with him. All that was with him was the question: “You must love Him very much, do you not?”

He walked night and day up and down the streets of Dusseldorf, trying to shake off his sadness of spirit, but in vain. One night he idly watched a group of people hurrying through a low doorway. It was curious, he thought, that the people who entered looked so happy.

Then Stenburg went one day to the house. He entered and sat down with the happy people. He listened to the preacher, a man who seemed to have found what Stenburg was looking for. That night Stenburg found the answer to the restlessness in his life. No church-going, no gift was enough! Jesus Christ had died on the cross for Stenburg; and at last the artist could say, “And how much I love Him!”

The next morning, he could not keep this joy to himself. “How can I tell others?” he asked himself. “I can paint,” he said with decision.

And soon a great masterpiece was presented to the Dusseldorf gallery for every visitor to see, a sermon for all to hear.

One day he found in front of his picture a girl, weeping. She turned, and it was Pepita. “It is you, Signor,” she cried out. “Oh, Signor, if He had but loved me so!”

They both sat in front of the painting and he told her the story of that wondrous death, and the glorious resurrection. “For all men, for the gypsies, for everyone Christ Jesus has suffered and bled on the cross. All this He did for thee, Pepita.”

The gypsy girl was quiet. Then she looked up. “I believe it,” she said, simply.

Two years later Pepita died, trusting in Jesus. Her last words were, “All this I did for thee.”

(To be continued)

Memory Verse: “THE SON OF GOD, WHO LOVED ME, AND GAVE HIMSELF FOR ME.” Gal. 2:20

ML-12/08/1974

A Correct Experience

Has this been your experience?

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

ML-12/08/1974

Taking the Bible Apart

In conversation with an old colored Christian a friend asked him if he liked the new pastor. He said, “Not very much,” and when asked the reason why he replied, “Well, I’ll tell you how it is. He’s de best man I ever seen to take de Bible apart, but he dunno how to put it togedder again.”

“And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall also take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city.” Rev. 22:19.

ML-12/08/1974

Bible Talks: Deuteronomy 5

IN CHAPTER 5 Israel were reminded of the covenant the Lord had made with them at Sinai. There they received the Ten Commandments and there they had voluntarily bound themselves to obey. Now Moses repeats to them all that God had taught their fathers in the wilderness and tells them that if they wanted to be blessed, if they wanted to live long in the land, they were to keep all the commandments of the Lord. For us as Christians we must walk in communion and obedience if we are to enjoy the blessings which God has given to us in Christ now seated at His right hand in heaven.

In Exodus 20, when the law was given, the people were told to remember the Sabbath and to keep it holy because “in six days the LORD made heaven and earth,... and rested the seventh day.” There it was in connection with the rest of God in creation. Here in Deuteronomy, however, a different reason is given for their keeping the Sabbath. It was because of their redemption out of Egypt.

God has no rest in His people now except by redemption. When He made everything at first He looked round on it all and said, It is all very good. But man sinned and spoiled everything that God gave him. Even the beautiful earth was cursed for man’s sake so that it brought forth thistles, thorns and briars. God could not rest in that creation.

Then God said He would choose a people for Himself and bring them out from all the rest and He would redeem them. To redeem means “to buy back.” God purchased a people with blood; that was the price He paid for them. Israel was redeemed out of Egypt by the blood of the passover lamb, and this was a type or shadow of something far more precious — the blood of Jesus. And now God was to have no rest except in redemption. So God said to Israel, as it were, You must rest on the Sabbath day because I have redeemed you out of Egypt.

“Remember that thou vast a servant in the land of Egypt, and that the Lord thy God brought thee out then through a mighty hand and by a stretched out arm: therefore the Lord thy God commanded thee to keep the sabbath day.”

As far as our day of rest is concerned we learn from Hebrews 4:9 that “There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God.” The Sabbath was always the seventh day of the week; Sunday is the first, so it could not possibly be the Sabbath. We await our day of rest when the Lord shall take us to His Father’s house, that we may rest in His love above. He Himself will rest then too. Our rest is at the end of the journey.

In Christianity the first day of the week takes the place of the Sabbath. On the Sabbath the Lord Jesus our Saviour lay in death in the grave. But how glorious to come together on the first day of the week when He rose triumphantly from the tomb, to break bread and to remember His dying love. How sweet and precious too to give Him this first day of the week, His day.

What a privilege too to use our spare time on Lord’s day in some loving service for Him, perhaps in Sunday school or gospel activities, or it may be in visiting the sick and aged ones. It would be well for us if, instead of spending the day in pleasure, we were tired at the end of the day from happily serving Him who gave His all for us.

ML-12/08/1974

Louis' Conversion

LOUIS was a Spanish boy who with his grandmother on an island off the coast of Spain. Louis grew up in ignorance of the love of God and he knew nothing of how the Lord Jesus died for sinners.

One day a change came in Louis’ life. It was his fourteenth birthday. On that day he heard a church bell ringing for someone who had died. Louis listened and counted the strokes of the bell for this would tell him how old the dead person was. The bell in that church was rung as many times as the years of the dead person’s life. So Louis listened and counted. To his surprise the ringing stopped at fourteen. Someone his own age had died.

Where had the soul of that person gone? Louis asked himself that question. If death came to him, where would his soul go? Louis could not get these thoughts out of his mind.

The young boy became anxious about death and what comes after and so he talked to his grandmother about them. But she could not help him for she herself did not know, nor did she know the Lord Jesus Christ. But she did have a Bible and she gave that to her grandson.

The Bible was a new thing to Louis and he read it all he could. As he read he learned that he was indeed a sinner and that after death comes judgment. But in his Bible he also found out that “Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.” 1 Tim. 1:15. He learned too that “God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him, should not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.

As he read on he saw how to be saved. You are saved, dear reader, by simply believing in your heart that the Lord Jesus died on Calvary’s cross for you. Louis believed and was saved. Then he rejoiced in the Lord Jesus as his own Saviour.

How happy he was now! There was no more fear of death for he knew that if he were to die, he would go to be with Jesus, the One who had loved him so much as to die for him.

His desire now was to tell others of that same Saviour. Whenever he could he would gather together a group of people from his town and would read to them from his Bible. Often, too, he would take a boat and go from island to island telling the fishermen and others about the Lord Jesus.

Memory Verse: “BEHOLD, NOW IS THE ACCEPTED TIME; BEHOLD, NOW IS THE DAY OF SALVATION.” 2 Corinthians 6:2

ML-12/15/1974

Two Answered Prayers

THERE ARE a lot of verses in the Bible that tell us about praying: “Watch and pray;” “Pray without ceasing,” and many more. When I was a lad I used to think that only grown-up people could pray and that it was quite out of the question for boys and girls. But I know now that it is just as easy and just as important for children as for grown-ups to pray.

Praying is really speaking to the Lord Jesus. We can ask Him to help us and guide us, and tell Him we are sorry when we have done wrong. I should like to tell you how the Lord Jesus heard and answered the prayers of two little girls.

The first one was traveling in a car with her mother through a lonely part of the country. Night was coming on and very heavy rain was causing floods all round them. At last they could go no further and the lady knew they were lost.

Parking the car close to a wall she asked her little girl if she would be brave and spend the night in the car. This sounds all right, but I had to do it once, some years ago, and I did not like it at all. The little girl said that she would, but she wanted first of all to pray to the Lord Jesus. She had just finished when they heard the welcome sound of a dog barking. The lady went immediately to find where the dog was, and discovered they were really quite near to a house in which they could shelter for the night.

The other little girl was a friend of Mr. Bosshardt who was captured by Chinese bandits some years ago.

All the time they held him prisoner this little girl asked the Lord Jesus every night to make the bandits set him free.

They went on for some months, when one night the prayers were said and Mr. Bosshardt was not mentioned. The mother asked her little girl if she had forgotten anyone, but she said, “No.” Again she questioned her, but the little one still said, “No.” At last she said to her mother, “Oh, do you mean I have not prayed for Mr. Bosshardt? Well, there is no need; he has been set free.” And so he had. Thousands of miles away, without even his friends in China knowing it, Mr. Bosshardt had been set free and was on his way home!

ML-12/15/1974

The Artist and the Gypsy Girl

(Continued from last week)

The artist grew older. Eventually, he must put his brush aside. Dusseldorf lost its artist, but the painting still hung for all to see.

Years later, a young German nobleman wandered into the gallery and stopped in front of the Stenburg masterpiece. He read the words on the frame. “All this I did for thee. What hast thou done for Me?”

Hours passed. That night the young count made a decision. That nobleman was Zinzendorf. In Dueldorf he decided to give his life to answering the question under the Stenburg painting. He died as a martyr to the cause of Christ, still answering it.

The gallery burned years ago, and with it the famous canvas. But the question for everyone — for you, dear reader, for me — remains the same. “All this I did for thee. What hast thou done for Me?”

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

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

ML-12/15/1974

Willing and Able

Some years ago, a fearful storm arose one evening and a ship, the “Santampa”, was driven on to the rocks. The “S.O.S.” distress signal was sent out, and the lifeboat was launched and went out into the storm to look for the ship. After a search the lifeboat returned, having failed to find her.

The storm was so violent that the authorities would not order the lifeboat out again, but left the decision to the crew of the lifeboat.

“Come on,” said the coxswain, “let’s have another go,” and out they went into the storm, never to return.

In the morning the lifeboat was found, capsized, near the ship. Thirty-nine souls perished that night, thirty-one in the ship, and eight in the lifeboat.

What brave men they were in the lifeboat, and willing, oh, so willing, to save, but UNABLE!

It may be, dear unsaved reader, that there are those who would be willing to save you, father, mother, brother, sister, or friend, but they are unable to do so. The scripture says, “None of them can, by any means, redeem his brother, or give to God a ransom for him, for the redemption of their soul is precious and it ceaseth (or “must be given up”) forever” (Psalm 49, verses? and 8).

You need a Saviour, One who is both willing and ABLE to save. That Saviour is Jesus, and He is ready to save you now. He is able to save you because He died for your sins. He is willing to save you because He loves you.

ML-12/15/1974

Bible Talks: Deuteronomy 6:1-9

IN THIS chapter Israel are reminded of their calling: “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one Lord.” It was He and He alone who had brought them up out of the land of Egypt.

This was the grand testimony entrusted to Israel in the midst of all the false gods of the heathen around. And yet how often the very thing entrusted to us is that in which we fail! In the wilderness, not long after they had come out of Egypt, Israel set up the golden calf. And when in the land idolatry was the great sin into which they fell. We cannot keep ourselves. Only in the grace that He Himself gives can any of us be faithful in the testimony God has called us to render. Apart from His grace, like Israel we too shall fail.

This same precious truth carries forward into Christianity. In 1 Corinthians 8:4 we read: “there is none other God but one"; again, “But to us there is but one God, the Father, of whom are all things, and we in Him: and one Lord Jesus Christ, by whom are all things.” God has been pleased to reveal Himself in three Persons. Sometimes He is manifested as the Father, sometimes as the Son, and sometimes as the Spirit. Jesus is God! “This is the true God and eternal life.” 1 John 5:20. So it is in Christianity we know but one God.

“And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.” The Lord Jesus said to His own in John 14:15. “If ye love Me, keep My commandments,” but here God demanded that the people love Him with all their heart, with all their soul and with all their might — a thing they could not do unless they were born again. How impossible then for a natural man to get blessing under the law, and yet how wonderful to be delivered from the law altogether and to know God revealed in Christ as “the God of all grace” (1 Pet. 5:10). “We love Him because He first loved us.” 1 John 4:19.

On Israel’s obedience depended their blessings — their life, their health, the fruit of their land, their flocks, and herd, and vineyards, and all that they had.

The Lord said they were to keep all His words in their hearts, and to teach them to their children. His words were to be the subject of their talk when they were sitting in their houses, when they walked about, when they lay down and when they got up.

They were to be bound as signs upon their hands to guide them what to do, as frontlets between their eyes to guide their feelings and thoughts and in what they were to look at. They were to write them upon the posts of their doors and on their gates so they could never go in or out without seeing God’s words on every side of them.

The Word of God should govern our whole pathway. He would have His people ever thinking of Him. He knows that nothing else will make us so happy or so blessed.

ML-12/15/1974

Mickey

MICKEY BYRNE was a little Irish boy. He had met with a serious accident, so serious that it was only too plainly to be seen that he could not live very long.

One Sunday afternoon, when I entered his ward in the hospital, he stretched his little arms to me saying, “A gentleman was here this morning singing something with these words: “Behold Me standing at the door!” When he was done, he just went away, and I did want to talk to him and ask him three questions. I’m going to ask you now.”

“Three questions all at once, Mickey? What a lot! But tell me what they are, and I will try to help you.”

Mickey started counting them on his fingers,

1. “Where’s the door?”

2. “Who’s standing there?”

3. “Why in the world don’t they let Him in?”

I explained very simply to Mickey that 1) the door was his own heart, and that, 2) the Lord Jesus was standing outside that door, knocking and saying: “Mickey, won’t you open your door, and let Me come in?”

“Now for your third question, Mickey, I am going to use your own words and say, ‘Why don’t you let Him in?’”

Mickey had his eyes fixed on me all the time I was speaking. Then he burst out with these words: “How long has He been standing there?”

“All your life, Mickey. He loves you, and He wants you; that is why He is standing there knocking. Won’t you let Him in?”

Mickey remained silent for a time, then he said: “I guess He had some patience! If I went to somebody’s door, I’d knock once or twice; perhaps I’d knock three times, but I guess I wouldn’t stand there for years. I’m ashamed of myself keeping Him standing there all that time.”

“Mickey,” I said, “if that is how you feel about it, why don’t you ask Him to come in?”

“Could I? Will He come in?”

“Of course He will,” I replied. “He tells us He will. He says: “Behold I stand at the door and knock; if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him and will sup with him, and he with Me.” Rev. 3:20.

“Mickey, just tell Him what you have told me.” So he shut his eyes and this was Mickey’s prayer: “Dear Lord Jesus, I never knowed it was You standing outside my door. I never knowed I’d a door at all. But I’ve got it open now, as wide as ever it will go! Just You come right inside and close the door tight shut, so that You won’t go out again. I’m ashamed of myself, keeping You standing outside. I guess You had some patience!”

Little Mickey was taken home shortly after this, to be forever with his newly-found Friend and Saviour. But before he died he was the means of getting two other boys in his ward to open the doors of their hearts, and let the Lord Jesus come in. He told his story over and over again, always ending with these words: “Ain’t you ashamed of yourselves? I guess He had some patience!”

Dear young reader, Will you open your heart to the Lord Jesus, now?

S. A. M.

Behold Me standing at the door

And hear Me pleading evermore:

Say, weary heart, oppressed with sin,

May I come in? May I come in?

ML-12/22/1974

" … His Life for Me!"

“HOW DID you escape?” asked a newspaper reporter of one of the survivors of the Norge sea disaster. She was a young Swedish girl, and this was her touching reply: “My brother, seventeen, and myself were going to our uncle in America. When the ship began to sink, he pulled me upstairs, and led me to where the lifeboats were.

Very tightly he kept hold of me, or else I should have been trampled on. Then very earnestly he spoke some words (which I didn’t catch) to the sailors who were putting people into one of the nearest boats. He then lifted me in his arms and handed me to them over the ship’s side. Somebody in the boat, which was already full, helped me in, and got me a seat. Of course, I never doubted my brother was following, but the boat immediately rowed off, and when I looked up, there he was still on the Norge, waving to me from the deck! No one knows my agony: my darling, my only brother sacrificed his life for me.”

This grand, pathetic incident is but a faint shadow compared with the old, old story of Jesus who laid down His life for poor, helpless, death-doomed sinners — for you! for me!

May we each ask: Can I thank Him enough? Can I praise Him enough?

The answer is “Never!”

Through all eternity to Thee

A joyful song I’ll raise;

But, oh! eternity’s too short

To utter all Thy praise.

ML-12/22/1974

A Royal Searching

Who crowned an orphan, royal queen? (Esther 2)

Who stole a crown from kingly brow? (2 Samuel 15)

What king forsook those who had been

Used to wise monarch’s words to bow? (1 Kings 12)

In what fine gold will yet a queen

Be found arrayed in days to come (Psalm 45)

When Israel’s earthly joys abound,

And under Christ they dwell at home?

Whose king arose from his royal throne,

And clad in sackcloth sat alone? (Jonah 3)

The Capitals when rightly set,

produce the honored name

Of one who wore a “golden crown,”

yet had no kingly reign.

ML-12/22/1974

Saved in a Moment

Early one Sunday morning, in a small house, a poor woman lay dying. The pastor who lived nearby was called in, and he spoke to her earnestly about spiritual things. Death is not the end; after death is the judgment (Heb. 9:27). The woman listened, cried to God for mercy, and died within a few mites. The pastor felt that in the short space of time of his visit, she was saved, and had gone to be with Christ.

If not already the Lord’s, you too may be saved in a moment. The work of our salvation was entirely finished when Christ died for us on the Cross and rose again the third day, and it only remains for you to believe on Him.

The guilt of twice ten thousand sins

One moment takes away.

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

ML-12/22/1974

It Doesn't Matter Much Where You Come From - It's Where You're Going That Counts!

“There is a way which seemeth right unto a man; but the end thereof are the ways of death.” Prov. 14:12.

The Lord Jesus said: “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by Me.” John 14:6.

Memory Verse: “NONE ... CAN BY ANY MEANS REDEEM HIS BROTHER, NOR GIVE TO GOD A RANSOM FOR HIM.” Psa. 49:7.

ML-12/22/1974

Bible Talks: Deuteronomy 6:10-25

“AND IT shall be, when the LORD thy God shall have brought thee into the land... to give thee great and goodly cities,... and houses full of good things... vineyards and olive trees,... when thou shalt have eaten and be full; then beware lest thou forget the LORD, which brought thee forth out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage.”

Moses here tells the children of Israel of the good things that awaited them in Canaan, and that when they came in and possessed the land they were not to forget the Lord who gave them all these blessings. How needful this admonition then and now! How easily any of us forget the Lord when we have plenty of good things, though it is then that we should be most thankful to Him for them.

God knew the hearts of His people, how quickly they would forget Him; and our hearts naturally are no better. The very fullness of the blessing might cause forgetfulness of the gracious hand that provided it all.

The sin of Sodom and that which brought on her destruction, we learn from Ezekiel 16:49, was “pride, fullness of bread, and abundance of idleness,... neither did she strengthen the hand of the poor and the needy.” Pride, luxury, idleness and moral corruption are found together in man’s history. This will characterize the last days of Christendom, and as we see the state of things in the world and in the professing church, we are made to feel how near we are to the end.

Trial and want are often used to awaken in man the consciousness of his dependence on God. Anything that God is pleased to allow to come into our lives to keep us dependent upon Him we ought to be thankful for.

Thus Israel was warned beforehand, that they might fear the Lord and sware by His name. God who loved them was a jealous God, jealous of their affections, so they must choose between His love which meant so much to them and His wrath which would be their destruction.

“Ye shall not tempt the Lord your God.” v. 16. This is what Satan sought to get the Lord to do in the temptation in the wilderness. But the Lord met the tempter with this very word of Scripture, saying, “It is written, Thou shalt not tempt the LORD thy God.” Men may put a man to the test to see if he is honest or trustworthy, but God is not one to be put to the proof by man in this way. Faith knows that God will do all that He has said He will do, and that He will take care of the one who trusts in Him.

They were not to tempt the Lord as they had done at Massah in the wilderness, when they wanted water and said, “Is the Lord among us or not?” They knew He had been among them surely but in the trials of the way, when there was no water, in their unbelief they spoke as if He had left them to perish. How it must have pained the heart of God, so loving and so faithful, to have His people murmur against Him thus. Yet how it must wound the heart of our blessed Lord when we fail to count on Him at times and even wonder if He has forgotten us! No! Never will He forget or forsake us. May we confide in Him and trust in His love more and more as the days go by.

ML-12/22/1974

Trust

TWO TEENAGE boys, Tom and Robert, were spending their holidays at a lakeside inn. Both were keen “bird watchers” and one day they spotted a raven’s nest on a narrow ledge, half-way down a sheer rock precipice. Determined to secure some of the raven’s eggs for their egg collections, they returned the next day along with a helper from the inn and a long rope.

The rope was soon adjusted around Tom’s body, and when it was securely knotted, he backed away from his companions who were holding it until he reached the edge of the precipice. Then with his feet against the wall of rock and his body at an angle to it, he “walked” backwards down the face of the cliff, his whole weight leaning on the rope, held by his friends above.

Down, down he went until he reached the nest; and as the raven flew croaking away he stretched out his hands and helped himself to two of the coveted eggs. These he placed in his cap which he held tightly between his teeth.

He then gave the signal to hoist away, and slowly began the upward climb.

But suddenly the upward pull stopped.

Gazing up the fifty feet of bare rock above, to his horror Tom saw that the rope had caught halfway in a forked piece of rock that jutted from the face of the cliff.

There he hung, perfectly helpless. Below, the great depth of several hundred feet; above, the precipice; around him the dreadful stillness of that absolutely solitary place. His companions were lost to sight and sound far back on the level ground above.

His life, humanly speaking, depended on Robert. His only connection with him was the single rope.

If anyone would learn the meaning of that word, “Trust” he should be in what was then Tom’s position. He could not see Robert; but he could see his danger. Would the sharp edges of the rock cut his lifeline?

By this time Robert knew that something was wrong, and guessing that the rope had been caught, began carefully working it free; while Tom looked anxiously for any sign of it beginning to cut or fray.

But Robert knew what he was about, and with much skill and patience was at last able to free the rope.

The breathless moments of suspense were over, and thanks to Robert, in a few more minutes Tom was scrambling over the edge of the cliff above, glad to find his feet once more on solid ground.

Are you trusting the One who can never fail you? The Apostle Paul could say, “I know whom I have believed.” (1 Tim. 1:12) Can you say that? You cannot see the Lord Jesus, any more than Tom could see Robert as he hung over the cliff, but you may safely trust the One of whom the Bible says: “He is able to save to the uttermost all that come unto God by Him.” Heb. 7:25.

ML-12/29/1974

A New Year for Ed

IT WAS about ten in the morning on New Year’s Day, and Ed was hurrying along the street to the bus terminal. The street was crowded, and the air was filled with the cheery calls of “Happy New Year!” as friends met and crossed paths. Ed had just reached the corner when he saw Len Carlson, a Christian who often spoke to Ed about his soul.

Ed’s first thought was to draw back, but it was too late now. He forced a smile, and as he met Len, he said, “Well, there, might as well wish you a Happy New Year!” Ed expected Len to give him a greeting in return, but Len’s greeting never came.

“Thank you, Ed,” said Len, “I — I wish I could wish the same of you. But it really wouldn’t be fair, or right...”

Ed stared at him. Was Len trying to be funny? “I know what you’re thinking, Ed,” Len said, “and believe me, I don’t say that to be unkind. I meant every word of that. I really can’t wish you a happy New Year...”

Ed exploded. “But why? Why not?”

“Why, Ed? Because as long as you are outside of Christ, it won’t be a new year at all. You’re still living in the same old grind of sin and nothing will really be new until you become a new creature in Him.”

Somehow those words struck Ed in a peculiar way. Deep down in his heart he knew that every word of it was true. They parted, and Ed got on the bus, but it was the most miserable ride he had taken in his life. When he reached his destination, he was glad to see an empty bench in the park, and he fell into it, all broken up deep inside. It was on that bench that he gave his heart to Christ.

When Ed and Len met again two weeks later Len could tell by the look on Ed’s face that he had accepted Christ as his Saviour. With a glad shout Len threw his arms around him, and cried, “Happy NEW Year, Ed... a big, Happy NEW Year from me to you!”

Yes, it was truly a new year for Ed when he found his Saviour. And it can be a new year for you, too, if you come to the Lord Jesus today, and find in Him the One who can save your soul and give you a new life in Him.

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

ML-12/29/1974

The Mysterious Stone

SOME YEARS ago a young husband and wife decided to leave their home in Europe and move to America. Among the things they took with them was a rough, round, somewhat unusual-looking stone, which the young man’s father gave him while they were busy packing.

“Take this,” said the old man. “I know neither its name nor its worth; but some day it may prove valuable to you in America.”

The young man was amused at the suggestion, and begrudged the extra weight of the stone; but for the sake of his old father, he tossed it thoughtlessly among the baggage. Eventually the mysterious stone arrived in the new home in America; but only to become one of their little boy’s toys.

For months it was thrown and kicked around the floor, till finally it rolled behind a door; out of sight, out of mind.

But one day, when very difficult times had overtaken the family, and the husband was without either money or work, he happened to notice the despised, long forgotten stone. Remembering his father’s words he picked it up and examined it curiously.

Its shape, weight and color now began to fascinate him. What was it that made this stone appear different to a million other stones?

Eventually he took it to a jeweler for identification. Imagine his amazement when the analysis proved it to be a ruby — a gem of rare worth — one of the largest rubies in the world! And yet for years it had been considered worthless — useful only as a toy!

How this story, like a parable, illustrates the manner in which many regard (or disregard) the Lord — God’s Living Stone. They see no beauty in Him — “He is despised and rejected of men,” (Isa. 53: 2,3.)

We can thank God that many have discovered His priceless worth. They have come and claimed Him as their own precious Saviour.

Have you?

“To whom coming as unto a living stone, disallowed indeed of men, but chosen of God and precious... “Unto you therefore which believe He is precious.” 1 Peter 2:4,7.

ML-12/29/1974

Bible Talks: Deuteronomy 7:1-11

ISRAEL were now told they had a solemn duty to perform when they entered the land. They were to utterly destroy the “seven nations” of Canaan, a people whose iniquity was now come to the full. This was not so in the days of Abraham (Gen. 15), but now the land was spewing them out for their abominations.

God might have employed other means to rid the land of them, such as plagues or famine, or other enemies, and this He might have done before Israel took possession. But He would use His people as the executors of His judgment on those guilty nations.

Before God the Canaanites stood for the worst wickedness, and Israel would learn in carrying out the Lord’s command to annihilate them the holiness of His nature and what sin is before Him. Furthermore, they were warned that if they followed these nations in their sin, they themselves would suffer the same awful judgment.

Hundreds of years before the curse had been pronounced upon these Canaanites because of their wickedness, but the moral reason given here is that the Lord is guarding His people from idolatry. Intercourse with these nations would certainly lead to it, for what things the Gentiles, or nations, sacrifice, they sacrifice unto demons (1 Cor. 10:20).

The gods of the Canaanites were the expression of their lusts and abominations so abhorrent to God, and Israel were not to trifle with this evil or make a league of any kind with those connected with it. They must be faithful to the Lord who had set His love upon them and had redeemed them to Himself. They were a “holy people,” a “chosen people, and a “special people” unto the Lord (v. 6). The Lord loved them because He chose to do so; He would also remember His word and the promise to their fathers (vv. 7,8). Surely these motives ought to act powerfully on their hearts and move them to ready and loving obedience to Himself! They would know Him as the true and faithful God — faithful in holy judgment as in loving mercy.

Israel were not to make marriages with the people of the land, for they would then be led astray by the idolatrous wife or husband, who had no heart for the God of Israel. Surely all this is a warning for us who are so inclined to make compromises with the world, as well as for Christian young people who contemplate marriage.

Dear young friends, true devotion to Christ calls for separation unto Him who loves us and has redeemed us by His blood. Furthermore this loyalty to Him will keep us from having anything to do with the world, its worship and its ways. Like Israel, we are warned against idolatry. “Little children, keep yourselves from idols.” 1 John 5:21. Let us not allow anything to come between us and our blessed Saviour who is soon coming to call us home.

ML-12/29/1974

Messages of God's Love: 1974

Table of Contents

A Sailor's Story

A Painted Text

A Strange Fish Story

Bible Talks: Numbers 19:11-16

The Old Chief's Gifts

Natasha's Blackboard Testimony

The Dirty Cottage Floor

Bible Talks: Numbers 19:17-22

The Touch of Compassion

When Beth Was Born

A Math Problem

Who Was He?

Bible Talks: Numbers 20:1-9

He Took My Place

"How Old Must I Be?"

Bible Talks: Numbers 20:10-13

A Little Pilgrim

Fishers of Men

"Yes!"

Bible Talks: Numbers 20:12,13

The Old Fiddle

Teenie's Sermon

Little Harry's Faith

Bible Talks: Numbers 20:14-21

The Untried Way

Sam, the Newsboy

How God Used a Fish Bone

Reg's Daily Text

Bible Talks: Numbers 20:22-29

Bert's Birthday Watch

Willing but Not Able

Tom's Conversion

Bible Talks: Numbers 21:1-6

A Wonderful Lion

A Little Irish Girl's Conversion

God Is Love

Not Saints but Sinners

Bible Talks: Numbers 21:6-9

"All Aboard" Or, John's Conclusion

Saved in the Bush

Now Is the Time

"Call on Me"

Bible Talks: Numbers 21:10-17

"Jesus Never Fails"

Sand Is Weighty

"Mine"

The Bible

Bible Talks: Numbers 21:18-20

A Race for Life

Perhaps Tonight.

I Was One of Them

Poor and Needy

John Bunyan

Beginning to Live

Ben Syra

Bible Talks: Numbers 21:21-35

A Sikh Boy Saved

Little Amy's Prayer

"Me, Too"

Bible Talks: Numbers 22:1-4

Little Black Sheep

Napoleon and the Drummer Boy

Five Fingers

Bible Talks: Numbers 22:5-14

Beware!

Maskepetoon

Harry Takes the Medicine

Bible Talks

The Little Bunny

All for Jesus

"Man. Does You Love Dod?"

Bible Talks: Numbers 22:28-35

Jesus Loves Me

Jewels

"Lord, Open My Eyes"

"Out of the Miry Clay"

Bible Talks: Numbers 22:36-23:9

Lost