Young Christians Calendar

December 2018

Dear Young Christian,

Can you believe it? The year is gone. I have summed up my thoughts in this poem I wrote especially for this page.

The years, they quickly come and go,

And time so swiftly flies,

I’m thankful that I’m travelling to

My home beyond the skies.

And maybe, yes, perhaps today,

Before another year,

I’ll hear the shout that calls me home,

His coming must be near!

What confidence it gives the soul,

To know that all is well,

And soon, yes, very soon indeed,

We will with Jesus dwell.

“The Lord shall preserve thy going out and thy coming in from this time forth, and even for evermore” (Psalm 121:8).

Your Christian Friend,

Jim Hyland

We would love to hear from you.
Send your comments or questions to jhyland@primus.ca

Sunday, December 30, 2018

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Finished

“And they crucified Him, and parted His garments, casting lots: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophet, They parted My garments among them, and upon My vesture did they cast lots. And sitting down they watched Him there” (Matthew 27:35-36).

The soldiers had finished their work not knowing they had fulfilled prophecies made a thousand years before Christ’s birth.

The act of parting His garments by lots: “They part My garments among them, and cast lots upon My vesture” (Psalm 22:18);

Not breaking any of His bones: “He keepeth all His bones: not one of them is broken” (Psalm 34:20).

Piercing His hands, His feet and side: “They shall look upon Me whom they have pierced” (Zachariah 12:10).

These were all foretold centuries before this event. Jesus knew all this must be done when He said, “I thirst” (Psalm 22:15). The sacrifice of the holy Lamb of God was completed and He cried out “It is finished” (John 19:30).

Let’s remember Him today, and that great work that was finished to the glory of God and for our eternal blessing.

Saturday, December 29, 2018

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Which?

“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).

There are two great rulers in the universe: God, and Satan. You are serving under one or the other. Which?

There are two roads which lead through time to eternity: the broad road and the narrow road. You are walking on one of these two roads. Which?

There are two classes of people in the world: the saved and the lost. You belong to one of these two classes. Which?

There are two deaths people can die: some die “in the Lord” (Revelation 13:14), others die in their sins. If you die, you will die one of these two deaths. Which?

There are two destinations after death: heaven, and hell. You will go to one of these. Which?

Two choices, which one will you choose?

Christ Jesus, or your soul to lose?

Two choices, friend, consider well,

Eternity in heaven or hell.

Friday, December 28, 2018

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Monthly Question Page

Q. Could you please explain what is meant by the statement, “No prophecy of the Scripture is of any private interpretation” (2 Peter 1:20)?

A. Very simply put, this verse is warning us not to take Scripture out of context, or isolate it from the rest of the Word of God, and then build a doctrine on it that does not correspond with the rest of the Bible. In other words, we are not entitled to our own private view or interpretation of what God is saying. One verse must fit with the whole of Scripture. And remember there are no contradictions in this living book. Most false doctrines that have ever been propagated are the result of taking a verse or passage and misapplying it to try and uphold or fit some false teaching or way of looking at things. This is never justified. The Bible is like a jigsaw puzzle. Every piece must fit perfectly with every other piece, and one piece lost or forced into the wrong place spoils the whole picture. That’s why Timothy was told, “Hold fast the form of sound words” (2 Timothy 1:13). This is really to have an outline of truth. Like the border of the jigsaw, when complete, it helps us to fill in the other pieces in the right place.

We would love to hear from you.
Send your comments or questions to jhyland@primus.ca

Thursday, December 27, 2018

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A Willing Heart

“With my whole heart have I sought Thee”
(Psalm 119:10).

The Lord wants willing hearts to follow Him wherever He leads. He wants whole-hearted people who will follow by faith though they do not know what lies ahead. “For we walk by faith, not by sight” (2 Corinthians 5:7).

This does not mean that we close our eyes or become indifferent to what is around us, but it does mean that we have “our Lord Jesus, that Great Shepherd of the sheep” (Hebrews 13:20) as our object, and that we follow Him while He guides and preserves us as “the sheep of His pasture” (Psalm 100:3).

Sometimes the way He leads is easy and pleasant, sometimes it’s rough and steep, and sometimes it’s in the valley of sorrow. But following the Shepherd closely and whole-heartedly, and with His protection and loving care, we shall make it safely through. As David said, “I will fear no evil: for Thou art with me” (Psalm 23:4).

Do you have a willing heart to follow Him today? If you do, be assured of His leading you in the right way. It may not be the easiest way, but it will be the right way!

Wednesday, December 26, 2018

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Monthly Scripture Reading

Romans 5

Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ:

By whom also we have access by faith into this grace wherein we stand, and rejoice in hope of the glory of God.

And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience;

And patience, experience; and experience, hope:

And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.

For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly.

For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die.

But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Much more then, being now justified by His blood, we shall be saved from wrath through Him.

Tuesday, December 25, 2018

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JESUS CAME

“JESUS CAME and touched them, and said, Arise, and be not afraid” (Matthew 17:7).

“JESUS CAME and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth” (Matthew 28:18).

“JESUS CAME into Galilee, preaching the gospel of the kingdom of God” (Mark 1:14).

“And when JESUS CAME to the place, He looked up, and saw him, and said unto him, Zacchaeus, make haste, and come down; for to day I must abide at thy house” (Luke 19:5).

“JESUS CAME again into Cana of Galilee, where He made the water wine” (John 4:46).

“Then when JESUS CAME, He found that he had lain in the grave four days already” (John 11:17).

“Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when JESUS CAME” (John 20:24).

“Christ JESUS CAME into the world to save sinners” (1 Timothy 1:15).

What a wonderful fact: JESUS CAME … He came for us, so that we could COME to Him and be saved!

Monday, December 24, 2018

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Dear Young Christian:

Sometimes I get exasperated because the Internet is down, or I am in an area where my cell phone won’t pick up a signal, and I find myself beyond communication … or so I think.

But thankfully there is always an open line to heaven and the “Throne of Grace.” We will never get a busy signal, never be put on hold or call waiting, never have a dropped call, and never find that we are out of range from the ear of God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. The invitation is to come at any time, with any need, never to be refused access or turned away. “Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need” (Hebrews 4:16).

As you head out for another busy week, perhaps you will have your cell phone, smart phone, laptop, and other communication gadgetry with you. But don’t forget to avail yourself of the free access you have to heaven.

Your Christian Friend,

Jim Hyland

We would love to hear from you.
Send your comments or questions to jhyland@primus.ca

Sunday, December 23, 2018

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The Work of Christ

“For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures; And that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures” (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).

This verse contains three glorious truths:

1. “Christ died.”

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

“And being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross” (Philippians 2:8).

2. “He was buried.”

“He made His grave with the wicked, and with the rich in His death; because He had done no violence, neither was any deceit in His mouth” (Isaiah 53:9).

3. “He rose again.”

“Raised again for our justification” (Romans 4:25).

The enjoyment of these three wonderful facts, will produce worship, praise, and thanksgiving in our hearts and on our lips.

Saturday, December 22, 2018

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Indifferent, or Ecstatic?

“And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people. For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger. And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men” (Luke 2:10-14).

The night the Lord Jesus was born into this world as a babe in Bethlehem, earth was indifferent but heaven was ecstatic. While heaven bursts forth with the glorious news of the birth of Christ, the world slept on in apathy. Thankfully there were a few shepherds who, on receipt of the wonderful announcement said, “Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us” (Luke 2:15). So it is today. There are still those who are indifferent to God’s invitation to come to the Saviour, and thankfully those who respond and come … Which are you, indifferent, or ecstatic?

Friday, December 21, 2018

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Success

On the island of Saint Vincent the taxi vans always have interesting names and often provocative slogans and sayings painted on them. While driving along the windy coastal road between Georgetown in the north of the island and Kingstown in the south, I saw a van ahead of us with the following statement painted on its back:

Prosperity is the way to success!

While this may be the world’s recipe for success, it made me think of the Scriptural formula for success. “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success” (Joshua 1:8). It is only as we read, meditate on, and obey the Word of God that we will have true spiritual success. We may not have much of what the world calls success in term of material wealth and position, but the Lord said, “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:19-20).

Thursday, December 20, 2018

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Practical Applications
of God’s Word

Part 12 — Conclusion

As we have noted in these meditations, the Word of God is sufficient to meet every spiritual need in the believer’s life. The Psalmist declared, “Thy commandment is exceeding broad” (Psalm 119:96). Whether we need spiritual food, power over the enemy, light and direction for our pathway, comfort in the sorrows of life, refreshment for our wilderness journey, or sound Christian teaching, it is all there. The question is, are we reading it, letting it have its way with us in the power of the Spirit, and then obeying it?

We may have a number of Bibles on our bookshelves, but are we prayerfully reading them? “Blessed is he that readeth” (Revelation 1:3), not simply owns. Seven times in Revelation we are exhorted to listen to and take heed to the Word of the Lord: “He that hath an ear, let him hear” (Revelation 2:7, 11, 17, 29; 3:6, 22-23). May the living Word of God be a daily and intricate part of your life! We are going to enjoy it fully for all eternity. “For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. But when that which is perfect is come, then that which is in part shall be done away” (1 Corinthians 13:9). Why not start now!

Wednesday, December 19, 2018

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Blessings — Part 2

As we said yesterday, there are times when we may even forget to be thankful for the wonderful mercies of God’s redeeming grace, and all that has been provided for us through the work of His beloved Son at Calvary.

Paul and Silas, though they were beaten, thrown in prison, and their feet placed in stocks, could still rejoice in the Lord, knowing, that in spite of present circumstances, His lovingkindness was still the same. I have sometimes wondered if they remembered the Old Testament Scripture, “At midnight I will rise to give thanks unto Thee because of Thy righteous judgments” (Psalm 119:62).

In any case we read, “And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them” (Acts 16:25). May we learn from their example, and from the testimony of Benjamin Weir, to count our blessings no matter what our trials or circumstances may be. We have many reason to rejoice, and everything to be thankful for. Are we truly “giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 5:20)?

Tuesday, December 18, 2018

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Blessings — Part 1

Missionary Benjamin Weir was held hostage in Lebanon and imprisoned under miserable conditions for sixteen months. In his first interview after his release, he was asked how he spent his time and how he dealt with boredom and despair. His answer stunned the reporters. He simply said, “Counting my blessings.”

“Blessings?” they responded.

“Yes,” he explained. “Some days I got to take a shower. Sometimes there were some vegetables in my food. And I could always be thankful for the love of my family.”

We can understand why the reporters were astonished at Benjamin’s response. It is hard for most of us to be consistently thankful even for the commonplace blessings and mercies that make life pleasant and comfortable. We often forget to be thankful for the unfailing supply of daily needs, the provision of food and shelter, and the companionship of friends and family. Over and over again the Bible exhorts us to be thankful. Paul reminded the Thessalonians, who were also suffering for their faith, “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

Monday, December 17, 2018

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Dear Young Christian:

The Lord wants us to come to Him with a teachable spirit, eager to learn and to have our thoughts moulded and formed by the Scriptures. We need to have the attitude of David, when on two occasions he penned the prayer, “Teach me Thy way, O Lord, and lead me in a plain path, because of mine enemies” (Psalm 27:11).And again, “Teach me Thy way, O Lord; I will walk in Thy truth: unite my heart to fear Thy name” (Psalm 86:11). And then his further desire expressed when he prayed, “Teach me to do Thy will” (Psalm 143:10).

Our Creator knows us through and through. He watches us with a steady eye and understands us completely. He knows what is best for us, and He has not left us in the dark as to His will, and what is for our blessing and happiness.

As you start another week, consider this truth well, and remember the exhortation from the book of James: “Be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves” (James 1:22).

Your Christian Friend.

Jim Hyland

We would love to hear from you.
Send your comments or questions to jhyland@primus.ca

Sunday, December 16, 2018

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“PRAISE HIM”

“The Lord is my strength and my shield … with my song will I PRAISE HIM” (Psalm 28:7).

We certainly have much to “PRAISE HIM” for, and especially for that mighty work of Calvary which He accomplished for the glory of God and for our eternal blessing. Here are some exhortations from the Psalms encouraging us to “PRAISE HIM,” for who He is, the wonderful things He has done, and the blessings that we have as a result:

“PRAISE HIM for the help of His countenance” (Psalm 42:5).

“PRAISE HIM, who is the health of my countenance, and my God” (Psalm 42:11).

“PRAISE HIM in the assembly” (Psalm 107:32).

“PRAISE HIM among the multitude” (Psalm 109:30).

“PRAISE HIM, all ye people” (Psalm 117:1).

“PRAISE HIM, O ye servants of the Lord” (Psalm 135:1).

“PRAISE HIM for His mighty acts” (Psalm 150:2).

“PRAISE HIM according to His excellent greatness” (Psalm 150:2).

Saturday, December 15, 2018

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While We Are Young

“Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes” (Ecclesiastes 11:9).

Wow! This sounds good! It sounds like the Bible is giving us license to live it up and to do our own thing. But let’s examine carefully what follows. “But know thou, that for all these things God will bring thee into judgment. Therefore remove sorrow from thy heart, and put away evil from thy flesh: for childhood and youth are vanity. 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” (Ecclesiastes 11:9-10; 12:1). In other words, the day will come when we must face God and give an account of how we lived our life here on earth. Even more importantly we must give an answer as to what we did with God’s offer of salvation through His Son and the work He did at Calvary. Yes, judgment is at the end of a life lived for pleasure and self, and a life lived without Christ. We need to be saved now, and begin to live for our Creator in the days of our youth.

Friday, December 14, 2018

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Secret Communion

“Then went Samson down, and his father and his mother, to Timnath, and came to the vineyards of Timnath: and, behold, a young lion roared against him. And the Spirit of the Lord came mightily upon him, and he rent him as he would have rent a kid, and he had nothing in his hand: but he told not his father or his mother what he had done” (Judges 14:6).

No, this wasn’t that the young person had broken curfew, or wrecked the car and didn’t tell his folks! Samson here had a secret between himself and the Lord that he told no one — not even his parents. The Lord had given him a special super strength that had not been given to others. And for quite a while Samson kept the secret.

But when we read the whole story of Samson in the book of Judges we find that Satan tempted him and he failed. As a result he eventually lost his source of strength, and in the end, even his life. Satan hates the Lord and His people and will do anything to break that special communion that Christians share with their Saviour. Be careful! Satan will do anything to spoil your “fellowship is with the Father, and with His Son Jesus Christ” (1 John 1:3).

Thursday, December 13, 2018

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Jehoshaphat’s Victory — Part 3

“Then upon Jahaziel … came the Spirit of the Lord in the midst of the congregation; And he said, Hearken ye, all Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem, and thou king Jehoshaphat, Thus saith the Lord unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God’s”
(2 Chronicles 20:14-15).

This company standing in one place to wait for the Lord’s answer must have been very astonished at what was conveyed to them by Jahaziel. But perhaps the hardest lesson of all for the natural man is what we read next: “Ye shall not need to fight in this battle: set yourselves, stand ye still, and see the salvation of the Lord with you, O Judah and Jerusalem: fear not, nor be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them: for the Lord will be with you” (verse 17). The victory was the Lord’s. It’s not in human strength that we overcome and stand against Satan, but only in the strength of the Lord. The Lord reminded his servant Paul, “My grace is sufficient for thee: for My strength is made perfect in weakness” (2 Corinthians 12:9). Paul could then say, “I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me” (Philippians 4:13). So for us, we have the same resource!

Wednesday, December 12, 2018

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Jehoshaphat’s Victory — Part 2

“And Jehoshaphat feared, and set himself to seek the Lord, and proclaimed a fast throughout all Judah. And Judah gathered themselves together,
to ask help of the Lord” (2 Chronicles 20:3-4).

When the enemy comes against us with all his forces we can do no better than to come to the Lord with our fear, just like King Jehoshaphat did. Read verses 5 through 12 of this chapter and you will hear how the king describes to the Lord in prayer their difficult situation, knowing that there is no other possibility of victory than by the Lord Himself. As he says, “In Thine hand is there not power and might, so that none is able to withstand Thee?” (verse 6).

When we truly cry to the Lord in our hearts and with a good conscience, we can be sure that He will answer. He is the only one who can deliver us when there is no help, humanly speaking. “He is able” (Hebrews 5:25).

“And all Judah stood before the Lord, with their little ones, their wives, and their children” (verse 13). We learn from this that there are times when dangerous situations face all the people of God. “And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it” (1 Corinthians 12:26).

Tuesday, December 11, 2018

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Jehoshaphat’s Victory — Part 1

“Hearken ye, all Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem, and thou king Jehoshaphat, Thus saith the Lord unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God’s” (2 Chronicles 20:15).

Sometimes the Lord has to put us in circumstances to remind us that our enemy Satan, and his hosts, are nothing new. If you will read the 20th chapter of 2 Chronicles you will find that the enemies of Israel were the same old enemies that they had always had. They had often met these enemies since leaving Egypt as a redeemed and delivered people. We find at the beginning of this chapter, that the different enemies come together at one time to fight against the people of God. “It came to pass after this also, that the children of Moab, and the children of Ammon, and with them other beside the Ammonites, came against Jehoshaphat to battle” (2 Chronicles 20:1). Our enemy often does this as well. He gathers together his forces to make us scared and afraid. “Your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour” (1 Peter 5:8). Thankfully we have One who is greater than the devil!

Monday, December 10, 2018

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Dear Young Christian:

Perhaps some of our readers are studying for a university or college degree. There is certainly nothing wrong with that, but have you ever considered this verse: “For they that have used the office of a deacon well purchase to themselves a good degree, and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus” (1 Timothy 3:13)?

Paul told the young man Timothy how to get, not just a degree, but a “good degree.” Maybe the Lord has some useful function or work for you to perform for His people. If you do that well, and for the Lord’s glory, you will certainly have purchased a good degree in God’s sight. It may not be the most glamorous job in the world, and you may not get a lot of recognition or thanks for it from other believers. It may seem very mundane, repetitive, or menial, and maybe not even appreciated by those you seek to serve. But if you do it for the Lord and His approval, He will reward you. That is more worthwhile than any degree which you may obtain from a school in this world.

Your Christian Friend,

Jim Hyland

We would love to hear from you.
Send your comments or questions to jhyland@primus.ca

Sunday, December 9, 2018

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He Gave Himself

This morning I had the privilege of attending the Breaking of Bread with believers in Dickson Village, Saint Vincent. The meeting began with the singing of the hymn:

Lord, Thy love has sought and found us

Wandering in this desert wide,

Thou hast thrown Thine arms around us,

For us suffered, bled, and died:

Sing, my soul! He loved thee,

Jesus gave Himself for me.

Little Flock Hymn Book #31 (appendix)

Although I have sung this hymn many times it seemed so fresh and appropriate for the occasion and brought to mind several familiar verses from the Bible.

“Our Lord Jesus Christ, Who gave Himself for our sins” (Galatians 1:3-4).

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

“Christ also loved the church, and gave Himself for it” (Ephesians 5:25).

It was wonderful to be reminded that “He gave Himself.” He could not give more, and He would not give less.

Saturday, December 8, 2018

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The Two Gates

“Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life,
and few there be that find it” (Matthew 7:13-14).

There is a way that leads to hell,

And many pass that gate,

And sad to say continue on,

Until it is too late!

Please do not linger in your sins,

To Jesus come today;

Believe in Him, and enter in,

He is the only way!

There is a gate to heaven…

Have you entered through that gate?

Jesus bids you enter now,

Before it is too late!

He died to open up the gate,

His blood has made the way,

And boys and girls, and adults too,

May enter right away.

Friday, December 7, 2018

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Compassed About

“For Thou, Lord, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt Thou compass him as with a shield” (Psalm 5:12).
“Thou shalt compass me about with songs of deliverance. Selah” (Psalm 32:7).
“He that trusteth in the Lord, mercy shall
compass him about” (Psalm 32:10).
“The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear Him, and delivereth them” (Psalm 34:7).

It’s a very disheartening and frightening thing to be in a hostile territory and realize you’re surrounded by the enemy. But we can rejoice in a far greater power than that of our enemy, Satan. This very day we are compassed about with the Lord’s own “shield” of protection; with “songs of deliverance”; with abundant “mercy”; and with “the angel of the Lord.” Would we wish it any different? Would you wish to be anywhere else?

Yes, we are definitely in a spiritual war zone, and will be as long as we are in this world. But we have One who is far greater than any onslaught of Satan and his forces. We are assured, “Greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world” (1 John 4:4).

Thursday, December 6, 2018

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A Helping Hand

“The men rowed hard” (Jonah 1:13).
“And He saw them toiling in rowing” (Mark 6:48).

In 1881 The French painter Emile Ranouf in his painting “A Helping Hand” depicted an old fisherman seated in a boat, with a little girl on the seat beside him. She is probably the old man’s granddaughter, and she has both hands on a huge oar. The man is looking admiringly down on her with great fondness. He has apparently told her that she may assist him in rowing the boat, and by the look on her face, she is taking this task very seriously. We can assume that in her desire to help she feels as though she is doing a great share of the work, and that the boat is moving steadily through the water due to her efforts. However, it is easy to see that it is the strong, muscular arm of the grandfather which is actually propelling the craft toward the open sea.

So it is with each of us who know Christ as “the Captain of their salvation” (Hebrews 2:10). He takes the helm and mans the oars, but also gives us responsibilities and a part in His work, while assuring us, “When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee” (Isaiah 43:2).

Wednesday, December 5, 2018

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He Lives Here

“They constrained Him, saying, Abide with us … And He went in to tarry with them” (Luke 24:29).
“That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith” (Ephesians 3:17).

When Queen Victoria reigned in England, she occasionally visited some of the humble cottages of her subjects. One time she entered the home of a widow and stayed to enjoy a brief period of Christian fellowship.

Later, the poor woman was taunted by her unbelieving and worldly neighbors. “Who’s the most honored guest you’ve ever entertained in your home?”

They expected her to say that it was Jesus, but to their surprise she answered, “The most honored guest I’ve ever entertained is Her Majesty the Queen Victoria.”

“Did you say the Queen?” they taunted. “we’ve got you this time! Isn’t it the Jesus you’re always talking about? Isn’t He your most honored guest?”

The old lady’s answer was definite and Scriptural. “No indeed! He’s not a guest … He lives here!” Her mockers were put to silence.

Tuesday, December 4, 2018

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Famous/Faithful

“A faithful man who can find?” (Proverbs 20:6).

Famous or faithful,

Which will it be?

Building for this life,

Or Eternity?

Faithful or famous,

What will you decide?

The glory of earth,

Or what will abide?

Faithful to Jesus,

Or famous down here?

What will it matter,

When He shall appear?

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

Monday, December 3, 2018

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Dear Young Christian:

I think everyone who is saved will admit that a Christian should be a Christian in conduct and speech as well as in name. Otherwise how will the life of Christ be seen in us, and how will we give testimony as to our salvation for the blessing and salvation of others?

The Lord gave very specific directions to the man out of whom He cast the demons, with a slight difference in the two gospels in which the event is mentioned.

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

“Return to thine own house, and SHOW how great things God hath done unto thee” (Luke 8:39).

On the one hand he was to tell them of his wonderful experience with the Lord Jesus, on the other hand he was to show by his actions that he was healed and was now a follower of Christ.

These two things should characterize our day-to-day life as well.

Your Christian Friend,

Jim Hyland

We would love to hear from you.
Send your comments or questions to jhyland@primus.ca

Sunday, December 2, 2018

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The Sufferings of Christ

Read carefully and prayerfully the following words written prophetically of the sufferings of Christ on the cross, and let them stir your heart to worship, praise, and thanksgiving.

“We did esteem Him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But 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 … .He was oppressed, and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth: He is brought as a lamb to the slaughter, and as a sheep before her shearers is dumb, so He openeth not His mouth. He was taken from prison and from judgment: and who shall declare His generation? for He was cut off out of the land of the living: for the transgression of my people was He stricken. And He made His grave with the wicked, and with the rich in His death; because he had done no violence, neither was any deceit in His mouth. Yet it pleased the Lord to bruise Him; He hath put Him to grief: when thou shalt make His soul an offering for sin, He shall see His seed, He shall prolong His days, and the pleasure of the Lord shall prosper in His hand” (Isaiah 53:4-5, 7-10).

Saturday, December 1, 2018

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A Three Part Promise

“And he said unto Jesus, Lord, remember me when Thou comest into Thy kingdom. And Jesus said unto him, Verily I say unto thee, To day shalt thou be with Me in paradise” (Luke 23:42-43).

One of the thieves hanging on a cross by the Lord Jesus, made a request. We know he was saved by Jesus’ answer to his request. He gave him a promise with three parts.

1. Immediate Salvation: Note the word “today.” In other words, “This very day, the day of your crucifixion.” Wherever “paradise” is, Jesus told this thief that he was going there that very day.

2. Personal Salvation: He said “With Me.” It is not “You over there and Me over here” Wherever Jesus was going, this thief would be right by His side. Heaven is where Jesus is, and to be with Him is to be in Heaven.

3. Heavenly Salvation: “Paradise” is the crucial word. It is the dwelling place of the Lord Jesus now, as indicated by Paul, when he spoke of the time when, “he was caught up into paradise” (2 Corinthians 12:4).

These three promises make up a compete salvation. Truly, this thief received much more than he asked for.Have you?