A YOUNG Christian salesman found himself in a large hotel room one night where a merry party was in progress. It was proposed that each one present should sing a solo, and many of the world’s favorite songs were heard that night. Then it came the turn of our young friend, but he excused himself sang that he knew no songs that they would care to hear. However, they would not let him off that easy, and one guest called on him to sing one of Sankey’s sacred songs; several others cried out that they would join in the chorus.
Our young friend decided to take them at their word and chose one well-known hymn with its simple gospel teaching — and with a silent prayer that God would use it for His glory. He sang as perhaps he never sang before, and many voices were heard joining in the chorus.
But before he was finished there were moist eyes and troubled hearts. The spirit of gaiety and levity was gone; but the Spirit of God was there. Several gathered around our young friend and thanked him for his song. He retired to rest, grateful to God for the grace and courage He had given.
He had not been in his bedroom long when there came a knock at the door. It was another young traveler who asked permission to come in. He was in deep trouble. The song had brought back to his memory the strains he had heard his dear mother sing long ago before she died. He knew his life had not been right; and the inquiry had been upon his lips, “What must I do to be saved?” With joy the young Christian led him to Christ that night, and he retired with a brighter hope.
Scarcely had his inquirer left than another knock was heard on the door. This time it was an elderly traveler. The song had reminded him of peace and happiness he had once enjoyed but which he had lost. He was a backslider; and the singer had the further joy of leading another sinner back to a loving Saviour.
It was nearly two o’clock in the morning before he could get to bed. But it was with heart-felt joy and gratitude to God who had thus honored his personal testimony for Christ.
ML-12/17/1972