WITH deep interest the little boy watches his father mend the shoes and imitates him as closely as possible. By being beside his father, he can ask questions and his father can watch him and tell him just how to do his work, and if he makes a mistake, correct him.
How good it is for the boy to have one to instruct him and good for him if he willingly takes the instruction.
So it is, dear children, as to the things of God. God has given us full instruction in His word as to all we should do and for the start He tells us to “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ.” “He that believeth on the Son hath everlasting life: and he that believeth tot the Son shall not see life; but the wrath of God abideth on him.” John 3:3636He 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).
God has given His Son for us poor sinners, and if we reject Him, there is no salvation for us, but the wrath of God will abide on us. But I doubt not that many who read this paper do believe in the Lord Jesus Christ, and for such I would say, take a lesson from the young cobbler, and inquire as to what your path should be, that you may get the wisdom of God, which is to be found alone in His word, to guide and direct you in every circumstance in life. It is a great thing to have the salvation of your soul and thus have eternal life, but you should be careful that you live that out in all your ways. So the Scripture says, “WORK OUT YOUR OWN SALVATION WITH FEAR AND TREMBLING.” Phil. 2:1212Wherefore, my beloved, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. (Philippians 2:12). It is for us to be looking at Christ, who has died for us that we might he saved, and imitating Him in all our ways with the utmost care. That is what is meant by working out our salvation with fear and trembling. If we do so, we will be to the praise and glory of our Lord and Saviour and be preserved from many wrong steps.
ML 07/01/1906