Dear young Christians, are we really content to have an approval which Christ only knows? Let us try ourselves a little. Are we not too desirous of man’s commendation of our conduct, or at least that he should know and give us credit for the motives which actuate it?
Are we content, as long as good is done, that nobody should know anything about us—content that Christ alone should give us the “white stone” of His approval, and the “new name, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it?” O, think what the evil and treachery of that heart must be that is not satisfied with Christ’s special favor, but seeks honor one of another instead!
I ask you, beloved, which would be most precious to you—the Lord’s publicly owning of you as a good and faithful servant, or the private individual love of Christ resting upon you, the secret knowledge of His love and approval?
He whose heart is especially attached to Christ will respond, “The latter.” Both will be ours, if faithful, but we shall value this the most.