From: My Heart's Desire
Maynard Force
When the Teacher Calls
The teacher is here and calleth thee. John 11. 28.
Death had visited the home of Martha and Mary. Lazarus, their beloved brother, had been suddenly snatched from them. With his passing had gone also their joy and happiness. It left them stunned. After four days of grief Jesus came, and word was sent to Mary,
''The teacher is here and calleth thee." How blessed a message for such a time as this! "The teacher is here and calleth thee" is a call to the heavy-hearted. No one but Christ can satisfy a heavy heart. Well-meaning friends try their best, but what are human beings at a time like this? It was Jesus alone who dared to say, "Let not your heart be troubled: believe in God, believe also in me" (John 14. 1). Faith is the only cure for heavy hearts. Faith in the Lord Jesus is also the key that will open the door of the dark prison of Heavy Heart and lead us into the freedom of God's sunlight. There are two truths that can help create such a faith. The first is: "He hath done all things well'' (Mark 7. 37). The second is: "For we know that to them that love God all things work together for good, even to them that are called according to his purpose" (Romans 8. 28).
"The teacher is here and calleth thee" is a word for those who think it is too late. Mary felt it was now too late, therefore she said, "Lord if thou hadst been here my brother had not died." This is a common mistake! Many are tempted to think it is already too late. Let us not forget that this is the day of grace, and it is not too late for Jesus to help us. He is able to take all those who belong to the ''too late'' class and change the whole situation for them. Many of His faithful followers today once belonged to this group. Remember, He "is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us" (Ephesians 3. 20). The apostle Paul saw this truth and triumphantly wrote, "I can do all things in him that strengthens me" (Philippians 4.13).
"The teacher is here and calleth thee" is a call to return to Jesus' feet. Mary "rose up quickly and went out . . . and fell down at his feet" (John 11.31-32). It was at Jesus' feet she had received such great blessings in the past. Now, in this moment of sorrow, she found her way back to His feet. What a blessed place to come to when one's heart is full of grief! How wonderful that the Master "is here and calleth thee"! He invites us to come to Him. Have you, by chance, been so overwhelmed by problems and sorrow that you have neglected your former place at His feet? Perhaps there was a time when you came there in quietness and poured out your heart to Him in prayer. Listen carefully, for the call is to you. "The teacher is here and calleth thee."
What a tragedy it would have been if unbelief had hindered Mary from answering this invitation! She would have missed witnessing the resurrection of her dear brother. What a tragedy for any soul to turn down such a blessed call! Regardless of what your condition is when these words find you, remember, "The teacher is here and calleth thee." Let us answer as Mary of old, by rising up quickly and falling "down at his feet."
Sunday, August 16, 2009
15. Great Faith
From: My Hearts Desire
Maynard Force
Great Faith
When Jesus heard these things he marveled at him, and said . . . I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel." Luke 7. 9.
Scripture records two occasions when Jesus marveled. Once "He marveled because of their unbelief" (Mark 6. 6), and the second time "He marveled'' at the faith of the centurion.
What was it about the centurion that caused Jesus to "marvel" and say, "I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel''? Was it that the centurion had faith that Jesus could heal his servant? It could not have been that, because many others also had faith in Jesus' healing power. Yet He did not marvel at their faith. Could it have been that the centurion came requesting healing for someone else, rather than for himself? But there are several incidents in Scripture where others did this, yet Jesus did not marvel or give a special recognition. Was it because of the humility of the centurion when he said, "I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof, wherefore neither thought I myself worthy to come unto thee'' (Luke 7. 6-7)? Had it been that, Jesus would have commented on his humility, rather than on his faith. There must, therefore, have been something then about his faith that was different from the faith of others which caused Jesus to "marvel" and say, "I have not found so great faith, no, not in all Israel''?
The centurion had found a secret that all Israel had missed. In fact, he had found a truth that most people miss today. He had come to see the power of Christ's word. He knew that if Jesus would but speak "the word'' something would happen, for there was authority in what He said. Therefore he requested, "Say the word, and my servant shall be healed.''
God's blessings are wrapped up in His Word. All who were blessed during Jesus' ministry on earth received the blessing through His word. It was not until He had spoken the word that the cure was complete. When in simple faith they believed His word, the miracle happened. Their feelings of joy came after they had accepted in faith the words that Jesus had given them. Let us note some of the words that He spoke at that time. To the leper He said, "Be thou clean." To the man with the withered hand, "Stretch forth thy hand." To the one that was deaf and had an impediment in his speech, "Be opened.'' To the thief on the cross, "Today thou shalt be with me in paradise.'' To the disciples, "Ye are clean because of the Word which I have spoken unto You." In each case it was His word that brought the miracle.
In our day also, God's blessings come through the Word. That is why Satan makes it so hard for us to feed systematically on the Word. He knows only too well that "the word of God is living, and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword'' (Hebrews 4. 12). He also knows that the Word of God has the answer to every problem that may arise in our life. Therefore he causes doubt, indifference, and neglect to keep us away from it. The need of the hour is to learn again the value of God's Word. Jesus said, "Is it not for this cause that ye err, that ye know not the scriptures, nor the power of God?" (Mark 12. 24). God's power lies in His Word.
The centurion's secret is worth knowing and putting into practice. Religious Israel missed it. A Roman soldier found it. He has passed it on to us. It is ours for the taking. With the Psalmist let us pray, "Give me understanding according to thy word'' (Psalm 119. 169).
Maynard Force
Great Faith
When Jesus heard these things he marveled at him, and said . . . I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel." Luke 7. 9.
Scripture records two occasions when Jesus marveled. Once "He marveled because of their unbelief" (Mark 6. 6), and the second time "He marveled'' at the faith of the centurion.
What was it about the centurion that caused Jesus to "marvel" and say, "I have not found so great faith, no, not in Israel''? Was it that the centurion had faith that Jesus could heal his servant? It could not have been that, because many others also had faith in Jesus' healing power. Yet He did not marvel at their faith. Could it have been that the centurion came requesting healing for someone else, rather than for himself? But there are several incidents in Scripture where others did this, yet Jesus did not marvel or give a special recognition. Was it because of the humility of the centurion when he said, "I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof, wherefore neither thought I myself worthy to come unto thee'' (Luke 7. 6-7)? Had it been that, Jesus would have commented on his humility, rather than on his faith. There must, therefore, have been something then about his faith that was different from the faith of others which caused Jesus to "marvel" and say, "I have not found so great faith, no, not in all Israel''?
The centurion had found a secret that all Israel had missed. In fact, he had found a truth that most people miss today. He had come to see the power of Christ's word. He knew that if Jesus would but speak "the word'' something would happen, for there was authority in what He said. Therefore he requested, "Say the word, and my servant shall be healed.''
God's blessings are wrapped up in His Word. All who were blessed during Jesus' ministry on earth received the blessing through His word. It was not until He had spoken the word that the cure was complete. When in simple faith they believed His word, the miracle happened. Their feelings of joy came after they had accepted in faith the words that Jesus had given them. Let us note some of the words that He spoke at that time. To the leper He said, "Be thou clean." To the man with the withered hand, "Stretch forth thy hand." To the one that was deaf and had an impediment in his speech, "Be opened.'' To the thief on the cross, "Today thou shalt be with me in paradise.'' To the disciples, "Ye are clean because of the Word which I have spoken unto You." In each case it was His word that brought the miracle.
In our day also, God's blessings come through the Word. That is why Satan makes it so hard for us to feed systematically on the Word. He knows only too well that "the word of God is living, and active, and sharper than any two-edged sword'' (Hebrews 4. 12). He also knows that the Word of God has the answer to every problem that may arise in our life. Therefore he causes doubt, indifference, and neglect to keep us away from it. The need of the hour is to learn again the value of God's Word. Jesus said, "Is it not for this cause that ye err, that ye know not the scriptures, nor the power of God?" (Mark 12. 24). God's power lies in His Word.
The centurion's secret is worth knowing and putting into practice. Religious Israel missed it. A Roman soldier found it. He has passed it on to us. It is ours for the taking. With the Psalmist let us pray, "Give me understanding according to thy word'' (Psalm 119. 169).
Thursday, August 13, 2009
14.Look on the Fields
From, "My Heart's Desire"
By Maynard A. Force
Look on the Fields
Lift up your eyes and look on the fields that they are already white unto harvest.
John 4. 35.
"Look on the Fields," admonishes our Saviour. They are in desperate need of our attention just now. He is referring to the vast fields of humanity, this world of ours. "They are already white unto harvest." A harvest field can ripen quickly after it reaches a certain stage. This is what happened the day Jesus first spoke these words. Therefore He wanted His disciples to be harvest-conscious.
The disciples had been interested chiefly in themselves. They had just returned from the village of Sychar, where they had gone to "buy food." Little did they realize as they walked the streets of this despised village that one of the greatest awakenings in Jesus' ministry would take place there. When they mingled with the people, they did not think of the possibility that they might become believers in Jesus Christ. They had come for the sole purpose of getting something out of this place for themselves. It never dawned on them they had something to give these people that was far more important than daily bread. This is a common mistake. Many are the followers of Christ today who look upon their places of work just in terms of what they can carry out. It never dawns upon them that their main purpose for being there is not the pay checks they can carry out, but the testimony they can carry in.
When Christians leave Christ out of their daily places of work, their main ambition then is to receive and not to give. Then the very principle upon which a Christian thrives is lost. For "it is more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20. 35). No one who claims to be a follower of Christ has any right to go in pursuit of his daily bread without having Christ's presence go with him. How dare we accept any position, regardless of salary, without having first been led there by Christ! This explains why there are practically no awakenings in factories, shops, offices, schools, and other places where Christians work today. The apostle Paul could say, "For to me to live is Christ" (Philippians 1. 21). Should not that be our motto, too? Would it not also imply, "For me to work is Christ"?
The awakening at Sychar did not come through the disciples. They did not return with encouraging reports that these people were hungry for the Word of God. They walked the streets of this village, saw and talked to the people, left a few coins in exchange for some food, and were ready to move on. They were satisfied that their work was done. How little it takes to satisfy some of us! Jesus used the person in Sychar one would least expect to be His witness, rather than these disciples. It was the testimony of the sinful Samaritan woman, "Come see a man who told me all things that ever I did," that brought souls to Christ. After she had met with Jesus she had more to say for Him than all the disciples.
This is indeed a warning to every Christian. Will our Lord have to repeat the same thing today? Will He have to raise up someone poor and despised, like the Samaritan woman, to bring about an awakening in the place where we earn our daily bread, because we who claim to be His followers are so blind? Surely He has given us ample time, just as He did the disciples then.
Thus we have seen that the place where we get our daily bread is much like Sychar. It needs Christ. We are the ones appointed to bring Him there. We go there, of course, to earn our daily bread, but that is not our main purpose for being there. This place is our mission field. We are admonished today to "look on the fields," for Christ wants to do a great work there. Perhaps our Sychar, too, is "white already unto harvest."
By Maynard A. Force
Look on the Fields
Lift up your eyes and look on the fields that they are already white unto harvest.
John 4. 35.
"Look on the Fields," admonishes our Saviour. They are in desperate need of our attention just now. He is referring to the vast fields of humanity, this world of ours. "They are already white unto harvest." A harvest field can ripen quickly after it reaches a certain stage. This is what happened the day Jesus first spoke these words. Therefore He wanted His disciples to be harvest-conscious.
The disciples had been interested chiefly in themselves. They had just returned from the village of Sychar, where they had gone to "buy food." Little did they realize as they walked the streets of this despised village that one of the greatest awakenings in Jesus' ministry would take place there. When they mingled with the people, they did not think of the possibility that they might become believers in Jesus Christ. They had come for the sole purpose of getting something out of this place for themselves. It never dawned on them they had something to give these people that was far more important than daily bread. This is a common mistake. Many are the followers of Christ today who look upon their places of work just in terms of what they can carry out. It never dawns upon them that their main purpose for being there is not the pay checks they can carry out, but the testimony they can carry in.
When Christians leave Christ out of their daily places of work, their main ambition then is to receive and not to give. Then the very principle upon which a Christian thrives is lost. For "it is more blessed to give than to receive" (Acts 20. 35). No one who claims to be a follower of Christ has any right to go in pursuit of his daily bread without having Christ's presence go with him. How dare we accept any position, regardless of salary, without having first been led there by Christ! This explains why there are practically no awakenings in factories, shops, offices, schools, and other places where Christians work today. The apostle Paul could say, "For to me to live is Christ" (Philippians 1. 21). Should not that be our motto, too? Would it not also imply, "For me to work is Christ"?
The awakening at Sychar did not come through the disciples. They did not return with encouraging reports that these people were hungry for the Word of God. They walked the streets of this village, saw and talked to the people, left a few coins in exchange for some food, and were ready to move on. They were satisfied that their work was done. How little it takes to satisfy some of us! Jesus used the person in Sychar one would least expect to be His witness, rather than these disciples. It was the testimony of the sinful Samaritan woman, "Come see a man who told me all things that ever I did," that brought souls to Christ. After she had met with Jesus she had more to say for Him than all the disciples.
This is indeed a warning to every Christian. Will our Lord have to repeat the same thing today? Will He have to raise up someone poor and despised, like the Samaritan woman, to bring about an awakening in the place where we earn our daily bread, because we who claim to be His followers are so blind? Surely He has given us ample time, just as He did the disciples then.
Thus we have seen that the place where we get our daily bread is much like Sychar. It needs Christ. We are the ones appointed to bring Him there. We go there, of course, to earn our daily bread, but that is not our main purpose for being there. This place is our mission field. We are admonished today to "look on the fields," for Christ wants to do a great work there. Perhaps our Sychar, too, is "white already unto harvest."
13. They Knew Him
From "My Hearts Desire"
By Maynard A. Force
They Knew Him
Their eyes were opened, and they knew him.
Luke 24. 31.
The first Easter was just about over and still two disciples were "looking sad'' (24.17). They had been "amazed" at the story the women had to tell about the empty tomb, but these things did not satisfy them for "him they saw not'' (v.24). They did not know what to make of the whole thing. Finally, they decided to go to Emmaus, a village a short distance from Jerusalem, and it was while there that "their eyes were opened'' and they received a blessing that changed them completely. Let us notice what led to this wonderful experience.
First, the disciples were willing to open their hearts to Jesus and receive Him into their fellowship. When He joined their company along the road He did not immediately identify Himself as He had done to others. He had a greater and more lasting blessing in store for them. Therefore "beginning from Moses and from all the prophets he interpreted to them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself'' (v. 27). Notice, He went back to the books of Moses which are in the very first part of the Bible. Then to "all the prophet's," and finally "He interpreted to them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.'' What a blessing it was that these men were familiar with the Scriptures, so that Jesus could reveal these truths to them! How sad that in our day so few people read and study the Bible! Very few people have read it through even once. What a pity! This accounts for the fact that so few have met the resurrected Christ. Jesus Himself said, "Man should not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God'' (Matthew 4.4). ''Every word,'' He said. That means we should feed our souls from all the Scriptures. Our spiritual diet should have in it all the vitamins of God's Word in order "that the man of God may be complete, furnished completely unto every good work'' (2 Timothy 3.17). If we are to meet the resurrected, living Christ, we must first open our hearts to Him and hear His word, "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly'' (Colossians 3.16).
Secondly, the disciples were willing to receive Christ into their homes. They extended a personal invitation, saying, "Abide with us." How simple the invitation, and yet how effective! The greatest blessing of our lives came in response to these simple words. They might have thought that since it was toward evening, the greatest happenings of the day were over. Surely, the exciting news of the women returning from the empty tomb would be the high point of the day, even if it did leave them "looking sad." Can a "far spent'' day have anything to offer? Is there any hope for a "far spent'' life? Yes, a thousand times yes, providing we do as these Emmaus disciples, and constrain Christ to "abide with us." Such an invitation can change any life in a hurry.
Thirdly, we notice that the disciples were willing to share their very necessities with Him. They had learned to love this stranger, so now they were willing to invite Him to their table. They thought they were going to give Him something, but instead He "took the bread and blessed; breaking it he gave to them'' (Luke 24.30). The hand that reaches out to give to Christ is the hand that comes back full. Our Lord asks us to give Him a portion of what we have so that He may have the opportunity of opening "the windows of heaven and pour (you) out a blessing that there shall not be room to receive it'' (Malachi 3.10). It was by this simple act of giving them back the blest bread that "their eyes were opened, and they knew him'' (Luke 24.31).
Words can not describe the blessing that came to these two disciples when ''their eyes were opened.'' Immediately drastic changes took place, changes such as will take place in the life of any one whose spiritual eyes have been "opened.'' First, their countenance was changed. Whereas they had been "looking sad," now floods of joy overwhelmed them. Then, too, their plans were changed. Before, they were going in one direction, now "they rose up that very hour'' and proceeded in the opposite direction. Perhaps the greatest change of all was in their testimony. Whereas, before, "they questioned together,'' Now they could give a united testimony, "The Lord is risen indeed'' (Luke 24.34). All this because their eyes were opened and they knew him!''
By Maynard A. Force
They Knew Him
Their eyes were opened, and they knew him.
Luke 24. 31.
The first Easter was just about over and still two disciples were "looking sad'' (24.17). They had been "amazed" at the story the women had to tell about the empty tomb, but these things did not satisfy them for "him they saw not'' (v.24). They did not know what to make of the whole thing. Finally, they decided to go to Emmaus, a village a short distance from Jerusalem, and it was while there that "their eyes were opened'' and they received a blessing that changed them completely. Let us notice what led to this wonderful experience.
First, the disciples were willing to open their hearts to Jesus and receive Him into their fellowship. When He joined their company along the road He did not immediately identify Himself as He had done to others. He had a greater and more lasting blessing in store for them. Therefore "beginning from Moses and from all the prophets he interpreted to them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself'' (v. 27). Notice, He went back to the books of Moses which are in the very first part of the Bible. Then to "all the prophet's," and finally "He interpreted to them in all the scriptures the things concerning himself.'' What a blessing it was that these men were familiar with the Scriptures, so that Jesus could reveal these truths to them! How sad that in our day so few people read and study the Bible! Very few people have read it through even once. What a pity! This accounts for the fact that so few have met the resurrected Christ. Jesus Himself said, "Man should not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God'' (Matthew 4.4). ''Every word,'' He said. That means we should feed our souls from all the Scriptures. Our spiritual diet should have in it all the vitamins of God's Word in order "that the man of God may be complete, furnished completely unto every good work'' (2 Timothy 3.17). If we are to meet the resurrected, living Christ, we must first open our hearts to Him and hear His word, "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly'' (Colossians 3.16).
Secondly, the disciples were willing to receive Christ into their homes. They extended a personal invitation, saying, "Abide with us." How simple the invitation, and yet how effective! The greatest blessing of our lives came in response to these simple words. They might have thought that since it was toward evening, the greatest happenings of the day were over. Surely, the exciting news of the women returning from the empty tomb would be the high point of the day, even if it did leave them "looking sad." Can a "far spent'' day have anything to offer? Is there any hope for a "far spent'' life? Yes, a thousand times yes, providing we do as these Emmaus disciples, and constrain Christ to "abide with us." Such an invitation can change any life in a hurry.
Thirdly, we notice that the disciples were willing to share their very necessities with Him. They had learned to love this stranger, so now they were willing to invite Him to their table. They thought they were going to give Him something, but instead He "took the bread and blessed; breaking it he gave to them'' (Luke 24.30). The hand that reaches out to give to Christ is the hand that comes back full. Our Lord asks us to give Him a portion of what we have so that He may have the opportunity of opening "the windows of heaven and pour (you) out a blessing that there shall not be room to receive it'' (Malachi 3.10). It was by this simple act of giving them back the blest bread that "their eyes were opened, and they knew him'' (Luke 24.31).
Words can not describe the blessing that came to these two disciples when ''their eyes were opened.'' Immediately drastic changes took place, changes such as will take place in the life of any one whose spiritual eyes have been "opened.'' First, their countenance was changed. Whereas they had been "looking sad," now floods of joy overwhelmed them. Then, too, their plans were changed. Before, they were going in one direction, now "they rose up that very hour'' and proceeded in the opposite direction. Perhaps the greatest change of all was in their testimony. Whereas, before, "they questioned together,'' Now they could give a united testimony, "The Lord is risen indeed'' (Luke 24.34). All this because their eyes were opened and they knew him!''
12. A Wonderful Invitation
A Wonderful Invitation
Come, for all things are now ready. Luke 14. 17.
This is another invitation from the Lord! It is simple and right to the point, so that no one can misunderstand it. He has arranged it so that this wonderful invitation should fall into your hands today.
It begins with the tender word "Come," which is so full of meaning. This is one of the first words we learned as children. Our parents used it when they opened their arms to receive us. We staggered and even fell in our first attempts to come. Later as we grew stronger, we could run and throw ourselves into their arms. Today this same word "Come" is spoken to us by our Lord, whose love far surpasses that of our parents. He has used the word "Come" in many other invitations. Two such that have been answered by many are: "Come now, let us reason together, saith Jehovah: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool'' (Isaiah 1. 18), and "Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest'' (Matthew 11. 28). Besides these, hundreds of other similar invitations have been given us to come to Him.
Here you are invited to an elaborate affair. Read your invitation again. Notice carefully its wording: "All things are now ready." Ponder the words "all things,'' for they are packed full of meaning. There has been no sparing of expense to make this feast possible. Before "all things" were ready it had cost God the Father an awful price. He gave His best, for we read, "God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son'' (John 3. 16). It cost Christ His life, for He "gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us out of this present evil world'' (Galatians 1. 4). Nothing more could have been done than has been done. Indeed "all things are now ready."
The invitation ends with the words "now ready. "This is not something to take place a year from now. When we are told that dinner is "now ready" we do something about it right away. Our Lord also has prepared a feast and stands ready to serve us. If you are weary, tired, starved, weak or depressed, then come, for the serving is ready to start. Strange as it may seem, a place has been set for you. How fortunate then that God's invitation reached you today!
What shall be your answer to such an invitation? No one else can answer it for you. God addressed it to you, and He awaits your answer. It demands your immediate attention. There are three ways in which this invitation has been dealt with in the past. Some read it, but do nothing about it. To them God's word applies, "How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation?" (Hebrews 2. 3). Others read it and give excuses. God, however, accepts no excuses but says of all who make them, "None of those men that were bidden shall taste of my supper'' (Luke 14. 24).
The third and last group accept the invitation. They hurriedly send word back, "Lord I come." One of the best answers ever given to this invitation, one which you, too, can use as your answer if you so desire, is the words of the hymn writer:
"Just as I am, without one plea
But that Thy blood was shed for me,
And that Thou bidd'st me come to Thee,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come!''
Maynard Force
My Hearts Desire
Augustana Book Concern 1949
Come, for all things are now ready. Luke 14. 17.
This is another invitation from the Lord! It is simple and right to the point, so that no one can misunderstand it. He has arranged it so that this wonderful invitation should fall into your hands today.
It begins with the tender word "Come," which is so full of meaning. This is one of the first words we learned as children. Our parents used it when they opened their arms to receive us. We staggered and even fell in our first attempts to come. Later as we grew stronger, we could run and throw ourselves into their arms. Today this same word "Come" is spoken to us by our Lord, whose love far surpasses that of our parents. He has used the word "Come" in many other invitations. Two such that have been answered by many are: "Come now, let us reason together, saith Jehovah: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool'' (Isaiah 1. 18), and "Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest'' (Matthew 11. 28). Besides these, hundreds of other similar invitations have been given us to come to Him.
Here you are invited to an elaborate affair. Read your invitation again. Notice carefully its wording: "All things are now ready." Ponder the words "all things,'' for they are packed full of meaning. There has been no sparing of expense to make this feast possible. Before "all things" were ready it had cost God the Father an awful price. He gave His best, for we read, "God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son'' (John 3. 16). It cost Christ His life, for He "gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us out of this present evil world'' (Galatians 1. 4). Nothing more could have been done than has been done. Indeed "all things are now ready."
The invitation ends with the words "now ready. "This is not something to take place a year from now. When we are told that dinner is "now ready" we do something about it right away. Our Lord also has prepared a feast and stands ready to serve us. If you are weary, tired, starved, weak or depressed, then come, for the serving is ready to start. Strange as it may seem, a place has been set for you. How fortunate then that God's invitation reached you today!
What shall be your answer to such an invitation? No one else can answer it for you. God addressed it to you, and He awaits your answer. It demands your immediate attention. There are three ways in which this invitation has been dealt with in the past. Some read it, but do nothing about it. To them God's word applies, "How shall we escape if we neglect so great a salvation?" (Hebrews 2. 3). Others read it and give excuses. God, however, accepts no excuses but says of all who make them, "None of those men that were bidden shall taste of my supper'' (Luke 14. 24).
The third and last group accept the invitation. They hurriedly send word back, "Lord I come." One of the best answers ever given to this invitation, one which you, too, can use as your answer if you so desire, is the words of the hymn writer:
"Just as I am, without one plea
But that Thy blood was shed for me,
And that Thou bidd'st me come to Thee,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come!''
Maynard Force
My Hearts Desire
Augustana Book Concern 1949
11. The God of All Grace
"The God of All Grace"
1 Peter 5. 10
In this short text we have found a spiritual nugget, which we greatly desire to share with others. Notice, our verse describes God as "the God of all grace." Not the God of much grace, but the God of all grace. Grace for every need in our life. No matter in what situation we may find ourselves, "the God of all grace'' has the help we need. Grace is the undeserved love of God given to us unworthy sinners to sustain us in every situation.
God has grace to save any sinner regardless of the nature of his sin. There is no place in all the Bible where certain sinners are excluded because their sins are too great. Rather, we read about Christ ''that by the grace of God he should taste of death for every man'' (Hebrews 2. 9). Weary sinners, take courage. Do you sense that your sins are many and great? Then remember, "Where sin abounded, grace did abound more exceedingly'' (Romans 5. 20). There is more grace in this world than sin.
God can give us grace to suffer any affliction. The apostle Paul had "a thorn in the flesh" that troubled him greatly. Three times he prayed the Lord to remove it from him, but the only answer he received was, "My grace is sufficient for thee, for my power is made perfect in weakness'' (2 Corinthians 12. 9).
That was all Paul needed, for he could then say, "Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my weakness that the power of Christ may rest upon me." Dear friend, are you suffering? Listen to the "God of all grace'' say to you, "My grace is sufficient for thee." And notice, He does not say it "will be'' sufficient, but it "is" sufficient.
God can give us grace to suffer the loss of loved ones. Have you ever had to face the loss of some loved one, and you did not know what to do? How easy at a moment like that to forget that we have a God who is "the God of all grace." Job lost in one day all ten of his beloved children. What a blow it must have been! That same day he also lost all his wealth. In this trying moment he looked to "the God of all grace'' and said, "Jehovah gave, and Jehovah hath taken away; blessed be the name of Jehovah'' (Job 1. 21). In the day of his greatest loss he gave one of his greatest testimonies. That is what the grace of God can do.
God can give grace not to worry. Worry is sin. It is a distinct mark of unbelief. One who worries has forgotten that we have a "God of all grace." And "all grace'' includes grace not to worry. His Word admonishes, "In nothing be anxious, but in every- thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God'' (Philippians 4. 6). In other words, tell God about it, and leave it there. "Casting all your anxiety upon him, because he careth for you'' (1 Peter 5. 7).
God can give us grace to die. Some people fear death. It haunts them constantly. Therefore they dare not think of it. How foolish! They have forgotten what our Saviour accomplished through death! He came "that through death he might bring to nought him that hath power of death, that is, the devil; and might deliver all them who through fear of death were all their life-time subject to bondage'' (Hebrews 2. 14-15) . O1d Simeon was ready to die after receiving Jesus, and testified, "Now lettest thou thy servant depart, Lord, according to thy word, in peace; for mine eyes have seen thy salvation which thou hast prepared before the face of all peoples'' (Luke 2. 29-31). He knew what it was to have grace to die.
Friend, do you sense the need of grace? It is free. "God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace to the humble'' (1 Peter 5. 5). Ask "the God of all grace," and He will give it to you."
Marvelous grace of our loving Lord,
Grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt;
Yonder on Calvary's mount outpoured,
There where the blood of the Lamb was spilt.
Sin and despair like the sea waves cold,
Threaten the soul with infinite loss;
Grace that is greater, yes, grace untold,
Points to the Refuge, the Mighty Cross.
Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace,
Freely bestowed on all who believe;
You that are longing to see His face,
Will you this moment His grace receive?
JULIA H. JOHNSTON.
Maynard Force
My Hearts Desire
Augustana Book Concern 1949
1 Peter 5. 10
In this short text we have found a spiritual nugget, which we greatly desire to share with others. Notice, our verse describes God as "the God of all grace." Not the God of much grace, but the God of all grace. Grace for every need in our life. No matter in what situation we may find ourselves, "the God of all grace'' has the help we need. Grace is the undeserved love of God given to us unworthy sinners to sustain us in every situation.
God has grace to save any sinner regardless of the nature of his sin. There is no place in all the Bible where certain sinners are excluded because their sins are too great. Rather, we read about Christ ''that by the grace of God he should taste of death for every man'' (Hebrews 2. 9). Weary sinners, take courage. Do you sense that your sins are many and great? Then remember, "Where sin abounded, grace did abound more exceedingly'' (Romans 5. 20). There is more grace in this world than sin.
God can give us grace to suffer any affliction. The apostle Paul had "a thorn in the flesh" that troubled him greatly. Three times he prayed the Lord to remove it from him, but the only answer he received was, "My grace is sufficient for thee, for my power is made perfect in weakness'' (2 Corinthians 12. 9).
That was all Paul needed, for he could then say, "Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my weakness that the power of Christ may rest upon me." Dear friend, are you suffering? Listen to the "God of all grace'' say to you, "My grace is sufficient for thee." And notice, He does not say it "will be'' sufficient, but it "is" sufficient.
God can give us grace to suffer the loss of loved ones. Have you ever had to face the loss of some loved one, and you did not know what to do? How easy at a moment like that to forget that we have a God who is "the God of all grace." Job lost in one day all ten of his beloved children. What a blow it must have been! That same day he also lost all his wealth. In this trying moment he looked to "the God of all grace'' and said, "Jehovah gave, and Jehovah hath taken away; blessed be the name of Jehovah'' (Job 1. 21). In the day of his greatest loss he gave one of his greatest testimonies. That is what the grace of God can do.
God can give grace not to worry. Worry is sin. It is a distinct mark of unbelief. One who worries has forgotten that we have a "God of all grace." And "all grace'' includes grace not to worry. His Word admonishes, "In nothing be anxious, but in every- thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known unto God'' (Philippians 4. 6). In other words, tell God about it, and leave it there. "Casting all your anxiety upon him, because he careth for you'' (1 Peter 5. 7).
God can give us grace to die. Some people fear death. It haunts them constantly. Therefore they dare not think of it. How foolish! They have forgotten what our Saviour accomplished through death! He came "that through death he might bring to nought him that hath power of death, that is, the devil; and might deliver all them who through fear of death were all their life-time subject to bondage'' (Hebrews 2. 14-15) . O1d Simeon was ready to die after receiving Jesus, and testified, "Now lettest thou thy servant depart, Lord, according to thy word, in peace; for mine eyes have seen thy salvation which thou hast prepared before the face of all peoples'' (Luke 2. 29-31). He knew what it was to have grace to die.
Friend, do you sense the need of grace? It is free. "God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace to the humble'' (1 Peter 5. 5). Ask "the God of all grace," and He will give it to you."
Marvelous grace of our loving Lord,
Grace that exceeds our sin and our guilt;
Yonder on Calvary's mount outpoured,
There where the blood of the Lamb was spilt.
Sin and despair like the sea waves cold,
Threaten the soul with infinite loss;
Grace that is greater, yes, grace untold,
Points to the Refuge, the Mighty Cross.
Marvelous, infinite, matchless grace,
Freely bestowed on all who believe;
You that are longing to see His face,
Will you this moment His grace receive?
JULIA H. JOHNSTON.
Maynard Force
My Hearts Desire
Augustana Book Concern 1949
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
10. The Lowest Place
My Heart's Desire
Maynard Force
The Lowest Place
Go and sit down in the lowest place. Luke 14.10.
Jesus teaches us to take the lowest place. Such a command can never be carried out in our own strength, for our very nature craves the ''chief seats.'' In this respect we are no different from the Pharisees and lawyers to whom Jesus first spoke these words.
To "sit down in the lowest place'' means to be where you are not noticed. It really is "down." It is located far below the range of the natural man. It was here the Gospel writers sat, or they never could have written the Gospels without once using the pro- nouns I, me, or my. In fact, God uses only those who are in this humble place. Here they have free access to the grace of God, for He "giveth grace to the humble'' (James 4.6).
"The lowest place'' is despised by most people. There are no crowded conditions here. The natural man rebels at the thought of it, for he thrives on praise and honor. It would kill him to have to humble himself to this extent. In fact, only those who "put to death the deeds of the body'' (Romans 8.13), begin to live in this lowly place, for "the natural man receiveth not the things of the spirit of God: for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot know them'' (1 Corinthians 2.14). The apostle Paul, speaking of those in this lowly place, said, "We are fools for Christ's sake'' (1 Corinthians 4.10). It was to this group also that Jesus referred when He said, "Whosoever would be first among you shall be your servant: even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many'' (Matthew 20.27-28).
Only when we are in "the lowest place'' can we be a blessing to others. The priests who carried the ark when the Israelites were crossing the Jordan stood "in the midst of the Jordan . . . until all the nation were passed clean over'' (Joshua 3.17). There in that "lowest place'' they could see a host of people march past them to higher ground. Their hearts must have been filled with joy for each one that passed on to safety. They not only endured standing in "the lowest place," but rejoiced in it, for there they could be next to the ark - the ark which was a type of Christ. It was only while they remained there that they could be a blessing to their fellow men. This is true of all whom God uses. Therefore, "Set not your mind on high things, but condescend to things that are lowly'' (Romans 12.16).
Only those who are in "the lowest place'' are invited "to go up higher.'' The summons comes to one after another to enter into eternal rest. We that are left miss them and sorrow for a time. But, praise God, we "sorrow not, even as the rest, who have no hope'' (1 Thessalonians 4.13). The time may soon come when we, too, "shall be caught up in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: so shall we ever be with the Lord'' (1Thess. 4.17). It will be a blessed day indeed when the summons comes "to go up higher.'' That is the day we are awaiting. We, too, can say with the apostle Paul, that it will be "far better to depart and be with Christ'' (Philippians 1.23). Then ''in the ages to come, he (God) might show the exceeding riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus'' (Ephesians 2.7). Truly, "he that humbleth himself shall be exalted'' (Luke 14.11).
"Go and sit down in the lowest place." Jesus Himself did this and we are asked to follow Him. "Have this mind in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: who, existing in the form of God . . . emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men; and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, becoming obedient even unto death, yea, the death of the cross'' (Philippians 2.5-8) . Truly then the way up is first down-down in humility before God, and up to the "Father's house'' with its "many mansions'' (John 14.2).
Maynard Force
The Lowest Place
Go and sit down in the lowest place. Luke 14.10.
Jesus teaches us to take the lowest place. Such a command can never be carried out in our own strength, for our very nature craves the ''chief seats.'' In this respect we are no different from the Pharisees and lawyers to whom Jesus first spoke these words.
To "sit down in the lowest place'' means to be where you are not noticed. It really is "down." It is located far below the range of the natural man. It was here the Gospel writers sat, or they never could have written the Gospels without once using the pro- nouns I, me, or my. In fact, God uses only those who are in this humble place. Here they have free access to the grace of God, for He "giveth grace to the humble'' (James 4.6).
"The lowest place'' is despised by most people. There are no crowded conditions here. The natural man rebels at the thought of it, for he thrives on praise and honor. It would kill him to have to humble himself to this extent. In fact, only those who "put to death the deeds of the body'' (Romans 8.13), begin to live in this lowly place, for "the natural man receiveth not the things of the spirit of God: for they are foolishness to him; and he cannot know them'' (1 Corinthians 2.14). The apostle Paul, speaking of those in this lowly place, said, "We are fools for Christ's sake'' (1 Corinthians 4.10). It was to this group also that Jesus referred when He said, "Whosoever would be first among you shall be your servant: even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many'' (Matthew 20.27-28).
Only when we are in "the lowest place'' can we be a blessing to others. The priests who carried the ark when the Israelites were crossing the Jordan stood "in the midst of the Jordan . . . until all the nation were passed clean over'' (Joshua 3.17). There in that "lowest place'' they could see a host of people march past them to higher ground. Their hearts must have been filled with joy for each one that passed on to safety. They not only endured standing in "the lowest place," but rejoiced in it, for there they could be next to the ark - the ark which was a type of Christ. It was only while they remained there that they could be a blessing to their fellow men. This is true of all whom God uses. Therefore, "Set not your mind on high things, but condescend to things that are lowly'' (Romans 12.16).
Only those who are in "the lowest place'' are invited "to go up higher.'' The summons comes to one after another to enter into eternal rest. We that are left miss them and sorrow for a time. But, praise God, we "sorrow not, even as the rest, who have no hope'' (1 Thessalonians 4.13). The time may soon come when we, too, "shall be caught up in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: so shall we ever be with the Lord'' (1Thess. 4.17). It will be a blessed day indeed when the summons comes "to go up higher.'' That is the day we are awaiting. We, too, can say with the apostle Paul, that it will be "far better to depart and be with Christ'' (Philippians 1.23). Then ''in the ages to come, he (God) might show the exceeding riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus'' (Ephesians 2.7). Truly, "he that humbleth himself shall be exalted'' (Luke 14.11).
"Go and sit down in the lowest place." Jesus Himself did this and we are asked to follow Him. "Have this mind in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: who, existing in the form of God . . . emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being made in the likeness of men; and being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, becoming obedient even unto death, yea, the death of the cross'' (Philippians 2.5-8) . Truly then the way up is first down-down in humility before God, and up to the "Father's house'' with its "many mansions'' (John 14.2).
9. God's Titles for His Children
God's Titles for His Children
And they shall call them Thy holy people, The redeemed of Jehovah: and thou shalt be called Sought out, A city not forsaken. Isaiah 62.12.
Saved souls are very precious in God's sight. They are bought with the highest price ever yet paid. Is it any wonder that they are referred to as "his inheritance," "children of God '' "God's elect '' "saints," "sons of God," and many other similar names? Our verse today has four such titles.
The first title is "the holy people." If it were not God's own word, we would think this title sacrilegious. When saved people look at themselves they feel anything but worthy of such a title. The best they can say for themselves is "We are unprofitable servants'' (Luke 17.10). How then can God call them "the holy people''? It is all because He now sees them in Christ. The cleansing power of Jesus Christ is so great that the vilest sinner who has been saved is holy in God's sight. "The blood of Jesus his Son cleanseth us from all sin'' (1 John 1.7). No matter how great the debt might be, if some wealthy man pays the bill in full, it is paid. Then the creditor no longer looks to the wretched debtor, but at the check which has paid the debt. That is what it means when Paul writes, "For ye died, and your life is hid with Christ in God'' (Colossians 3.3). Therefore "we should be holy and without blemish before him in love'' (Ephesians 1.4).
The second title is "the redeemed of Jehovah.'' Redeemed means bought back. We "were by nature children of wrath'' (Ephesians 2.3). The devil stole us through Adam's fall. "Through one man, sin entered into the world, and death through sin; and so death passed unto all men, for that all sinned'' (Romans 5.12). We "were strangers from the covenants of the promise, having no hope and without God in the world'' (Ephesians 2.12). What a dark picture! But because of Jesus Christ's shed blood the picture changes. "And through him (Christ) to reconcile all things unto himself, having made peace through the blood of his cross'' (Colossians 1.20). "Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus'' (Romans 3.24). What a staggering price Christ paid that believers might be called "the redeemed''! Christ paid with His life that poor sinners might be saved. May we never underestimate salvation!
The third title is "Sought out," a people "sought out'' or looked for. Notice it does not say a people who sought God, but rather a people whom God sought out. Jesus said, "For the Son of man came to seek and to save that which was lost'' (Luke 19.10). It was God who looked for Adam after the fall, and not Adam for God. Every saved soul has first been sought out by the Holy Spirit. For He "will convict the world in respect of sin'' (John16.8). No soul has ever come to Christ until he has sensed a need. This conviction of sin was God's work of seeking out the sinner. Is it any wonder God's people are called "Sought out''?
The fourth title is "not forsaken.'' How often the devil tempts God's children into thinking that they are forsaken! The promises of God speak otherwise. "I am with you always, even to the end of the world'' (Matthew 28.20). Who, claiming that promise, can be forsaken? Again, "I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to harm thee'' (Acts18.10). "Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them'' (Matthew 18.20). David, in his old age, testified, "I have been young, and now am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken. . . . Jehovah . . . forsaketh not his saints'' (Psalm 37.25-28).
What wonderful titles God gives the saved sinner! Only God Himself could think of such lofty names for such poor people. Do these titles belong to you? They are meant for you. For God "would have all men to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth'' (1Timothy 2. 4).
Christ my Saviour, Christ my Friend,
Christ my Treasure without end,
Christ when waves of sorrow roll,
Christ the Comfort of my soul.
Christ when all around should fail,
Christ when enemies prevail;
Christ when false accusers rise,
Christ my Solace in the skies.
Christ when days are dark and drear,
Christ when all around is clear,
Christ when all the earth is gone,
Christ my portion on the throne.
Christ at home, and Christ abroad,
Christ my Company on the road,
Christ in sickness, Christ in health,
Christ in poverty and wealth.
Christ who once on earth has trod,
Christ the blessed "son of God,"
Christ for time and Christ for aye,
Christ for all eternity.
And they shall call them Thy holy people, The redeemed of Jehovah: and thou shalt be called Sought out, A city not forsaken. Isaiah 62.12.
Saved souls are very precious in God's sight. They are bought with the highest price ever yet paid. Is it any wonder that they are referred to as "his inheritance," "children of God '' "God's elect '' "saints," "sons of God," and many other similar names? Our verse today has four such titles.
The first title is "the holy people." If it were not God's own word, we would think this title sacrilegious. When saved people look at themselves they feel anything but worthy of such a title. The best they can say for themselves is "We are unprofitable servants'' (Luke 17.10). How then can God call them "the holy people''? It is all because He now sees them in Christ. The cleansing power of Jesus Christ is so great that the vilest sinner who has been saved is holy in God's sight. "The blood of Jesus his Son cleanseth us from all sin'' (1 John 1.7). No matter how great the debt might be, if some wealthy man pays the bill in full, it is paid. Then the creditor no longer looks to the wretched debtor, but at the check which has paid the debt. That is what it means when Paul writes, "For ye died, and your life is hid with Christ in God'' (Colossians 3.3). Therefore "we should be holy and without blemish before him in love'' (Ephesians 1.4).
The second title is "the redeemed of Jehovah.'' Redeemed means bought back. We "were by nature children of wrath'' (Ephesians 2.3). The devil stole us through Adam's fall. "Through one man, sin entered into the world, and death through sin; and so death passed unto all men, for that all sinned'' (Romans 5.12). We "were strangers from the covenants of the promise, having no hope and without God in the world'' (Ephesians 2.12). What a dark picture! But because of Jesus Christ's shed blood the picture changes. "And through him (Christ) to reconcile all things unto himself, having made peace through the blood of his cross'' (Colossians 1.20). "Being justified freely by his grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus'' (Romans 3.24). What a staggering price Christ paid that believers might be called "the redeemed''! Christ paid with His life that poor sinners might be saved. May we never underestimate salvation!
The third title is "Sought out," a people "sought out'' or looked for. Notice it does not say a people who sought God, but rather a people whom God sought out. Jesus said, "For the Son of man came to seek and to save that which was lost'' (Luke 19.10). It was God who looked for Adam after the fall, and not Adam for God. Every saved soul has first been sought out by the Holy Spirit. For He "will convict the world in respect of sin'' (John16.8). No soul has ever come to Christ until he has sensed a need. This conviction of sin was God's work of seeking out the sinner. Is it any wonder God's people are called "Sought out''?
The fourth title is "not forsaken.'' How often the devil tempts God's children into thinking that they are forsaken! The promises of God speak otherwise. "I am with you always, even to the end of the world'' (Matthew 28.20). Who, claiming that promise, can be forsaken? Again, "I am with thee, and no man shall set on thee to harm thee'' (Acts18.10). "Where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them'' (Matthew 18.20). David, in his old age, testified, "I have been young, and now am old; yet I have not seen the righteous forsaken. . . . Jehovah . . . forsaketh not his saints'' (Psalm 37.25-28).
What wonderful titles God gives the saved sinner! Only God Himself could think of such lofty names for such poor people. Do these titles belong to you? They are meant for you. For God "would have all men to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth'' (1Timothy 2. 4).
Christ my Saviour, Christ my Friend,
Christ my Treasure without end,
Christ when waves of sorrow roll,
Christ the Comfort of my soul.
Christ when all around should fail,
Christ when enemies prevail;
Christ when false accusers rise,
Christ my Solace in the skies.
Christ when days are dark and drear,
Christ when all around is clear,
Christ when all the earth is gone,
Christ my portion on the throne.
Christ at home, and Christ abroad,
Christ my Company on the road,
Christ in sickness, Christ in health,
Christ in poverty and wealth.
Christ who once on earth has trod,
Christ the blessed "son of God,"
Christ for time and Christ for aye,
Christ for all eternity.
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