My Heart's Desire
Maynard A. Force
Chapter 8
The Grace Of God
The grace of God hath appeared bringing salvation to all men. Titus 2. 11.
''Grace'' is one of the richest words in the Bible. It includes in its meaning many other wonderful words such as love, mercy, patience, and salvation. It is one of the key words that introduce us to God. Without it we would be in total darkness.
''Grace'' is God's love poured out upon undeserving sinners. Such a statement should arouse the attention of any sinner. If any individual thinks he deserves God's love, he can not touch the grace of God, for grace is something that comes entirely from God, and is given as an outright gift to undeserving people. "For by grace have ye been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves; it is the gift of God: not of works, that no man should glory'' (Ephesians 2. 8-9).
God's grace comes to us through Jesus Christ. "The law was given through Moses: grace and truth came through Jesus Christ'' (John 1. 17). God's grace and Jesus Christ can not be separated, for they are one and the same thing. God's grace is all bound up in Christ. Therefore our text reads, "The grace of God hath appeared, bringing salvation to all Men." Our text could also have read, "Jesus Christ hath appeared, bringing salvation to all men."
"For it was the good pleasure of the Father that in him (Christ) should all the fulness dwell'' (Colossians 1. 19). It was God's plan to reveal His grace in a very attractive way. No one who comes in touch with Jesus eve: needs to doubt God's love for him.
Even the vilest sinner felt drawn to Christ. Children as well as grown people felt welcome in His presence. Come then, "Let us therefore draw near with boldness unto the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy, and may find grace to help us in time of need'' (Hebrews 4. 16).
God's grace can not be exhausted. It is like an endless river that never runs dry. "For of his fullness we all received, and grace for grace'' (John 1. 16). "Grace for grace'' can also be translated "grace upon grace." It is as a river that has water upon water-grace upon grace. Drink as often and as much as you desire, but you can not drink this river dry. Some stricken sinners are tempted to believe they have exhausted God's grace. Nothing could be farther from the truth than that. God's own word should forever remove such doubt. "But where sin abounded, grace did abound more exceedingly'' (Romans 5. 20). Where sin is great, grace is even greater. "God is able to make all grace abound unto you'' (2 Corinthians 9. 8). Never for one moment entertain the thought that there is not sufficient grace for you, for "He giveth more grace'' (James 4. 6). God's river of grace is still overflowing its banks. Stoop down, thirsty one, and drink of it, for "the river of God is full of water'' (Psalm 65. 9).
God's grace can not be exhausted, but it can be rejected. A sinner is never lost because God's grace is not sufficient, but rather because God's grace is rejected. Christ "came to his own, and they that were his own received him not, but as many as received him, to them gave he the right to become children of God'' (John 1. 11-12). It is possible for a man to die of thirst on the barks of a river if he refuses to drink. There have been cases where people have gone on hunger strikes and actually died for lack of food, not because there was no food, but rather because they refused to partake of it. We can not find one case in the Bible where Christ rejected a sinner because His grace was exhausted. Rather, we find Him weeping over sinful Jerusalem, which was in dire need of His grace; because they rejected the grace He came to give. The great problem is not that there is not sufficient grace to forgive sinners, but rather that sinners reject or neglect the grace God offers them.
Grace is for "all Men." No amount of work can earn it. It is given to those who put their faith in Jesus Christ. "Being therefore justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ; through whom we also have our access by faith unto his grace wherein we stand'' (Romans 5. 1).
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.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Sunday, July 26, 2009
7. The Shepherd's Rod
My Hearts Desire
Maynard A. Force
Chapter 7
The Shepherd's Rod
Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Psalm 23. 4.
What significant words: "Rod, staff, and comfort''! The staff is used to gently guide the sheep and is a symbol of the shepherd's presence. The rod, on the other hand, is used to discipline the sheep, in order to get them to go where they belong. It is easy to see how the Psalmist could find comfort in the shepherd's staff. But notice, he says that the rod also gives comfort. He even mentions that first. If he had said, "Thy rod I have learned to endure, and thy staff comforts me," his words would better fit the experience of many.
Notice the setting of this testimony. It is a continuation of the verse that has brought strength to many a dying saint, "Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me." Even when entering the shadow of death, the rod of God can be a comfort. Many are the children of God who suffer and go through real testings at such a time. Friend, if you have already entered that valley, may you not misunderstand the Good Shepherd if He uses the rod now for the last time. The valley may seem long and dark, but take courage, and say with the Psalmist, "Thou art with me." The very fact that you are conscious of the rod proves His presence, ''for whom the Lord Loveth he chasteneth'' (Hebrews 12. 6). Wherefore, "Regard not lightly the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art reproved of Him." Rather, pray for grace to say with the Psalmist, "Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me." The rod can either cause you to faint, or be a means of giving you comfort.
The rod never feels like comfort. It is easy to misunderstand our Lord when He uses it. It provides a good opportunity for the devil to whisper wrong interpretations. But a Christian must live by faith, and not by feelings. "All chastening seemeth for the present to be not joyous but grievous; yet afterward it yieldeth peaceable fruit unto them that have been exercised thereby, even the fruit of righteousness'' (Hebrews 12. 11). Notice it says, "all chastening.'' If we walk by feelings at a time of chastening we are undone, for no chastening seems joyous. Then, mark the word "seemeth." To frail human beings, prone to walk by feelings and not by faith, chastening seems grievous. At such a time let us not squirm and complain and ask, "Why did this have to happen to me? God promises an "afterward" when "peaceable fruit of righteousness'' is borne. If we trust Him when He uses the rod, we will later have this harvest of peaceable fruit.
What then should be our attitude toward the rod? First of all, thank God for it. "Count it all joy, my brethren, when ye fall into manifold temptations; knowing that the proving of your faith worketh patience'' (James 1. 2-3). Remember, "If ye are without chastening, whereof all have been made partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons'' (Hebrews 12. 8). If we reverence our earthly fathers who punished us, shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?" (Hebrews 12. 9). May the three words, "be in subjection," be our guiding motto in times of darkness. Then we shall be able to say with the Psalmist, "Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me."
Maynard A. Force
Chapter 7
The Shepherd's Rod
Thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.
Psalm 23. 4.
What significant words: "Rod, staff, and comfort''! The staff is used to gently guide the sheep and is a symbol of the shepherd's presence. The rod, on the other hand, is used to discipline the sheep, in order to get them to go where they belong. It is easy to see how the Psalmist could find comfort in the shepherd's staff. But notice, he says that the rod also gives comfort. He even mentions that first. If he had said, "Thy rod I have learned to endure, and thy staff comforts me," his words would better fit the experience of many.
Notice the setting of this testimony. It is a continuation of the verse that has brought strength to many a dying saint, "Yea though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me." Even when entering the shadow of death, the rod of God can be a comfort. Many are the children of God who suffer and go through real testings at such a time. Friend, if you have already entered that valley, may you not misunderstand the Good Shepherd if He uses the rod now for the last time. The valley may seem long and dark, but take courage, and say with the Psalmist, "Thou art with me." The very fact that you are conscious of the rod proves His presence, ''for whom the Lord Loveth he chasteneth'' (Hebrews 12. 6). Wherefore, "Regard not lightly the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art reproved of Him." Rather, pray for grace to say with the Psalmist, "Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me." The rod can either cause you to faint, or be a means of giving you comfort.
The rod never feels like comfort. It is easy to misunderstand our Lord when He uses it. It provides a good opportunity for the devil to whisper wrong interpretations. But a Christian must live by faith, and not by feelings. "All chastening seemeth for the present to be not joyous but grievous; yet afterward it yieldeth peaceable fruit unto them that have been exercised thereby, even the fruit of righteousness'' (Hebrews 12. 11). Notice it says, "all chastening.'' If we walk by feelings at a time of chastening we are undone, for no chastening seems joyous. Then, mark the word "seemeth." To frail human beings, prone to walk by feelings and not by faith, chastening seems grievous. At such a time let us not squirm and complain and ask, "Why did this have to happen to me? God promises an "afterward" when "peaceable fruit of righteousness'' is borne. If we trust Him when He uses the rod, we will later have this harvest of peaceable fruit.
What then should be our attitude toward the rod? First of all, thank God for it. "Count it all joy, my brethren, when ye fall into manifold temptations; knowing that the proving of your faith worketh patience'' (James 1. 2-3). Remember, "If ye are without chastening, whereof all have been made partakers, then are ye bastards, and not sons'' (Hebrews 12. 8). If we reverence our earthly fathers who punished us, shall we not much rather be in subjection unto the Father of spirits, and live?" (Hebrews 12. 9). May the three words, "be in subjection," be our guiding motto in times of darkness. Then we shall be able to say with the Psalmist, "Thy rod and thy staff, they comfort me."
Saturday, July 25, 2009
6. Are There Few That Be Saved?
My Heart's Desire
Maynard A. Force
Chapter 6
Are There Few That Be Saved?
Luke 13:23
The question was once asked Jesus, "Are there few that be saved?'' This is one of the most solemn questions ever asked. Only Jesus is qualified to give the correct answer. He answered the question by saying, strive to enter in by the narrow door: for many, I say unto you, shall seek to enter in, and shall not be able'' (Luke 18:24). Perhaps the one who asked the question remembered that out of the great population at the time of the Flood only eight people were saved. Perhaps he also remembered that out of the wicked cities of Sodom and Gomorrah only three people escaped destruction. Therefore the question, "Are there few that be saved?''
From Jesus' answer, we are told, that the lost are referred to as "many" "Many shall seek to enter in, and shall not be able." God's people have always been in the minority. Once Jesus said, "Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom'' (Luke 12:32). Again He said, "Enter ye in by the narrow gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many are they that enter in thereby. For narrow is the gate, and straightened the way that leadeth unto life, and few are they that find it'' (Matthew 7. 13-14). Notice, Jesus makes it clear that many are on the road to destruction, and few enter the gate that leads unto life. How sad that Jesus had to answer the question as He did!
We also notice that many shall seek to enter in and shall not be able. These are religious people who know about the Lord, for the day will come that they will cry out "Lord, open to us'' (v. 25). They address Him as Lord. They will even say "We did eat and drink in thy presence, and thou didst teach in our streets.'' To this pitiful cry the only answer will be, "I tell you, I know not whence ye are; depart from me'' (v. 27). These lost souls had heard the pure preaching of God's Word. They even knew the door that leads to eternal life, for they came and knocked there. They did not openly despise the Lord, but rather sought "to enter in" They had the head knowledge, but lacked a heart experience. They had been fellowshipping with real Christians, and had tried to imitate them to the best of their ability. Perhaps others thought they were real Christians. There was a concern in their heart for eternal things, but they never got beyond the class of the seekers.
This group that numbered "many" never took care of the sin problem in their lives. They never got to the place where with the Psalmist they could joyfully testify, "Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man unto whom Jehovah imputeth not iniquity'' (Psalm 32:1). When they claimed entrance to heaven, not a word was said about the blood of Christ. There was no "broken and contrite heart'' in them. Rather, they had lofty thoughts of themselves, for their cry was, "Lord, open to us.'' Their emphasis was not on "Lord," but rather on "us." They had been able to "get by'' with their sins until they stood at the judgment seat. There they learned the truth of the verse, "Be sure your sin will find you out'' (Numbers 32. 23). What a terrible time to be caught with sin!
Jesus' answer still holds true for our day. "Many shall seek to enter in and shall not be able." In this age also there are few that are saved. That is not God's fault, for He would have all men to be saved, and come to the knowledge of the truth'' (1 Timothy 2:4). Christ "died for all'' (2 Corinthians 5:15), and He said, "Him that cometh unto me, I will in no wise cast out'' (John 6:37). This, then, is the day for seekers to become finders. This is the time to cry out in the words of the Psalmist, "Have mercy upon me, 0 God, according to thy loving-kindness: according to the multitude of thy tender mercies, blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin'' (Psalm 51:1-2).
Maynard A. Force
Chapter 6
Are There Few That Be Saved?
Luke 13:23
The question was once asked Jesus, "Are there few that be saved?'' This is one of the most solemn questions ever asked. Only Jesus is qualified to give the correct answer. He answered the question by saying, strive to enter in by the narrow door: for many, I say unto you, shall seek to enter in, and shall not be able'' (Luke 18:24). Perhaps the one who asked the question remembered that out of the great population at the time of the Flood only eight people were saved. Perhaps he also remembered that out of the wicked cities of Sodom and Gomorrah only three people escaped destruction. Therefore the question, "Are there few that be saved?''
From Jesus' answer, we are told, that the lost are referred to as "many" "Many shall seek to enter in, and shall not be able." God's people have always been in the minority. Once Jesus said, "Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom'' (Luke 12:32). Again He said, "Enter ye in by the narrow gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many are they that enter in thereby. For narrow is the gate, and straightened the way that leadeth unto life, and few are they that find it'' (Matthew 7. 13-14). Notice, Jesus makes it clear that many are on the road to destruction, and few enter the gate that leads unto life. How sad that Jesus had to answer the question as He did!
We also notice that many shall seek to enter in and shall not be able. These are religious people who know about the Lord, for the day will come that they will cry out "Lord, open to us'' (v. 25). They address Him as Lord. They will even say "We did eat and drink in thy presence, and thou didst teach in our streets.'' To this pitiful cry the only answer will be, "I tell you, I know not whence ye are; depart from me'' (v. 27). These lost souls had heard the pure preaching of God's Word. They even knew the door that leads to eternal life, for they came and knocked there. They did not openly despise the Lord, but rather sought "to enter in" They had the head knowledge, but lacked a heart experience. They had been fellowshipping with real Christians, and had tried to imitate them to the best of their ability. Perhaps others thought they were real Christians. There was a concern in their heart for eternal things, but they never got beyond the class of the seekers.
This group that numbered "many" never took care of the sin problem in their lives. They never got to the place where with the Psalmist they could joyfully testify, "Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Blessed is the man unto whom Jehovah imputeth not iniquity'' (Psalm 32:1). When they claimed entrance to heaven, not a word was said about the blood of Christ. There was no "broken and contrite heart'' in them. Rather, they had lofty thoughts of themselves, for their cry was, "Lord, open to us.'' Their emphasis was not on "Lord," but rather on "us." They had been able to "get by'' with their sins until they stood at the judgment seat. There they learned the truth of the verse, "Be sure your sin will find you out'' (Numbers 32. 23). What a terrible time to be caught with sin!
Jesus' answer still holds true for our day. "Many shall seek to enter in and shall not be able." In this age also there are few that are saved. That is not God's fault, for He would have all men to be saved, and come to the knowledge of the truth'' (1 Timothy 2:4). Christ "died for all'' (2 Corinthians 5:15), and He said, "Him that cometh unto me, I will in no wise cast out'' (John 6:37). This, then, is the day for seekers to become finders. This is the time to cry out in the words of the Psalmist, "Have mercy upon me, 0 God, according to thy loving-kindness: according to the multitude of thy tender mercies, blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from mine iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin'' (Psalm 51:1-2).
Thursday, July 23, 2009
5. A Glimpse Into Heaven
My Heart's Desire
Maynard A. Force
Chapter 5
A Glimpse Into Heaven
There the wicked cease from troubling; and there the weary are at rest. There the prisoners are at ease together; they hear not the 'voice of the task- master. The small and the great are there: and the servant is free from his master. Job 3: 17-19.
When Job's testing became unbearable he found comfort by looking heavenward. He knew the balm for troubled hearts. As he peered with longing eye, he described what he saw.
"The wicked cease from troubling''-the days of trouble are past. Where can you find such a place on this earth? Here wicked people and wickedness surround us on all sides, and troubles of one kind or another come as regularly as the day. Our entire pilgrimage is a warfare, with Satan inspiring wicked people to trouble the saints. But that day of troubling will soon be over. Jesus said in one of His last messages to His disciples: "Let not your heart be troubled: believe in God, believe also in me. . . I go to prepare a place for you. . . . I come again, and will receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also'' (John 14: 1-3). This is medicine for a weary Christian. The day will soon dawn when the wicked shall cease from troubling.
"There the weary are at rest." That is exactly what Jesus promised when He said: "Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest'' (Matthew 11: 28). What a sight to see all those who were once weary and tired, now refreshed and happy, with struggles and trials forever past ! Now they have perfect rest, rest that will last through all the ages of eternity. When the apostle Paul peered heavenward he, too, had "the desire to depart and be with Christ; for it is very far better'' (Philippians 1. 23). For a saved soul "to die is gain," for there the weary are at rest.
"There the prisoners are at ease together.'' How good to see those who were once prisoners now released! Satan's prisons have been opened, and many haggard, starved, restless prisoners are free. They are more than free; they are at ease, perfectly relaxed. No longer in lonely cells, where Satan had them isolated, but now together in glorious fellowship. People who were once guilty of all types of crimes make up this heavenly population. They are now at ease, for there is no guilty conscience to hound them, and no regrets of failures and shortcomings. They are here because of Jesus. These are the ones to whom Jesus referred when He said, "He hath sent me to proclaim release to the captives'' (Luke 4: 18).
"They hear not the voice of the taskmaster.'' The taskmaster Satan, who had such a far-reaching voice on earth, is now forever silenced. He who drove his slaves from early morning until late at night and shouted his demands into every nook of human life is heard no more. He who was known as "the accuser of the brethren'' can no longer be heard even in a whisper He who once came "as an angel of light'' and imitated the Holy Spirit, can never deceive these saved souls again, for they hear not the voice of the taskmaster.
"The small and the great are there." There is no distinction now. We expected that the great would be there, but did you notice that the small are present, too? Does that not encourage you? The small, who were hardly recognized on earth are known in heaven. Job even mentions them first. The prophecy of Jesus, "the last shall be first," has been fulfilled. Jesus has always had His eyes on the small. He has always taken their side. Once He said, "Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom'' (Luke 12: 32).
"The servant is free from his master." There are no class distinctions in heaven, nor any labor disputes. Social inequality is gone forever; the caste system is a thing of the past. "God is no respecter of persons'' (Acts 10: 34).
Thus we have been listening to Job as he peered into heaven and saw the redeemed. We could well wish he had told us more. We would like to linger, but our journey calls for more marching. With these beautiful glimpses of that land to which we are going we move on with renewed hope, longing for the day when we will be there.
Maynard A. Force
Chapter 5
A Glimpse Into Heaven
There the wicked cease from troubling; and there the weary are at rest. There the prisoners are at ease together; they hear not the 'voice of the task- master. The small and the great are there: and the servant is free from his master. Job 3: 17-19.
When Job's testing became unbearable he found comfort by looking heavenward. He knew the balm for troubled hearts. As he peered with longing eye, he described what he saw.
"The wicked cease from troubling''-the days of trouble are past. Where can you find such a place on this earth? Here wicked people and wickedness surround us on all sides, and troubles of one kind or another come as regularly as the day. Our entire pilgrimage is a warfare, with Satan inspiring wicked people to trouble the saints. But that day of troubling will soon be over. Jesus said in one of His last messages to His disciples: "Let not your heart be troubled: believe in God, believe also in me. . . I go to prepare a place for you. . . . I come again, and will receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also'' (John 14: 1-3). This is medicine for a weary Christian. The day will soon dawn when the wicked shall cease from troubling.
"There the weary are at rest." That is exactly what Jesus promised when He said: "Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest'' (Matthew 11: 28). What a sight to see all those who were once weary and tired, now refreshed and happy, with struggles and trials forever past ! Now they have perfect rest, rest that will last through all the ages of eternity. When the apostle Paul peered heavenward he, too, had "the desire to depart and be with Christ; for it is very far better'' (Philippians 1. 23). For a saved soul "to die is gain," for there the weary are at rest.
"There the prisoners are at ease together.'' How good to see those who were once prisoners now released! Satan's prisons have been opened, and many haggard, starved, restless prisoners are free. They are more than free; they are at ease, perfectly relaxed. No longer in lonely cells, where Satan had them isolated, but now together in glorious fellowship. People who were once guilty of all types of crimes make up this heavenly population. They are now at ease, for there is no guilty conscience to hound them, and no regrets of failures and shortcomings. They are here because of Jesus. These are the ones to whom Jesus referred when He said, "He hath sent me to proclaim release to the captives'' (Luke 4: 18).
"They hear not the voice of the taskmaster.'' The taskmaster Satan, who had such a far-reaching voice on earth, is now forever silenced. He who drove his slaves from early morning until late at night and shouted his demands into every nook of human life is heard no more. He who was known as "the accuser of the brethren'' can no longer be heard even in a whisper He who once came "as an angel of light'' and imitated the Holy Spirit, can never deceive these saved souls again, for they hear not the voice of the taskmaster.
"The small and the great are there." There is no distinction now. We expected that the great would be there, but did you notice that the small are present, too? Does that not encourage you? The small, who were hardly recognized on earth are known in heaven. Job even mentions them first. The prophecy of Jesus, "the last shall be first," has been fulfilled. Jesus has always had His eyes on the small. He has always taken their side. Once He said, "Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom'' (Luke 12: 32).
"The servant is free from his master." There are no class distinctions in heaven, nor any labor disputes. Social inequality is gone forever; the caste system is a thing of the past. "God is no respecter of persons'' (Acts 10: 34).
Thus we have been listening to Job as he peered into heaven and saw the redeemed. We could well wish he had told us more. We would like to linger, but our journey calls for more marching. With these beautiful glimpses of that land to which we are going we move on with renewed hope, longing for the day when we will be there.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
4.The Cloudy and Dark Day
My Heart's Desire
Maynard A. Force
Chapter 4
The Cloudy and Dark Day
I will seek out my sheep; and I will deliver them out of all places whither they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day. Ezekiel 34:12.
There have been many "cloudy and dark days'' on this earth. The first one came when Adam fell into sin. Since then they have come in rapid and quick succession. Whenever anyone turns away from God, it is a ''cloudy and dark day'' for him. The "cloudy day" is a time of threatening, one never knows how bad it may become. It may soon become a "dark day" when all visibility is gone. Then the night of hell with its eternal blackness follows quickly.
The sheep were ''scattered'' in "the cloudy and dark day." When visibility is poor it is easy to get lost. On cloudy days only those sheep who stay close to the shepherd remain with the flock. It is the sheep who follow "afar off" that get scattered. Being "afar off," they may in a moment of carelessness lose sight of the shepherd and go their own way.
For a while these wandering sheep find the going easy enough. Then comes the darkness and they realize they are "scattered." Once a sheep loses sight of the shepherd he is an easy victim for the wolf. Satan, the wolf that is always after God's sheep, has feasted on many a "scattered" one. Now he has nothing to fear for there is no shepherd to protect them. The sheep themselves have no strength to ward off such a beast.
The places where these sheep are scattered vary. Lost sheep run anywhere for they have lost their sense of direction and have no shepherd to guide them. Satan can drive such wanderers wherever he may desire. Many he has driven into despair, discouragement, selfishness, unhappiness, grief, and hopelessness. Some are even tempted to end their own lives because they see no reason for continuing to live. They remember the happy days while they were in the flock of God, but now everything is so different. Surely the cloudy day can become dark. Oftentimes it becomes dark at noontide when it should be brightest. Many lives become dark and purposeless when they should be bright and hopeful.
Our God does not forsake His sheep in the dark and cloudy day. We are still living in the day of grace. Therefore He offers to "deliver them out of all places whither they have been scattered.'' We are sometimes tempted to believe our God loves only the sheep He has in the flock and not those who have wandered away. But the very word of God we are now considering makes it clear that He is after the scattered sheep. Notice, He does not say He will deliver them out of most places, but out of all places. No sheep has wandered so far away, that He does not stand ready to deliver it. He does not chide His sheep for being scattered, but rather comes to deliver them. "Deliver" is the opposite of "scatter." The one spells hope; the other spells doom. Our Lord comes to give hope to the hopeless.
Our God has promised to go for the sheep Himself. "I will seek out my sheep and will deliver them out of all places whither they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day." The angels are not entrusted with this mission, for our God will Himself do the task. He will be the Good Shepherd. His all-seeing eye can locate all lost souls. He will seek them out individually. Surely no wandering sheep can long resist such love. Listen to Christ, the Sheep Finder, as He cries out "I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd layeth down his life for the sheep. . . .And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and they shall become one flock, one shepherd'' (John 10:11,16).
Maynard A. Force
Chapter 4
The Cloudy and Dark Day
I will seek out my sheep; and I will deliver them out of all places whither they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day. Ezekiel 34:12.
There have been many "cloudy and dark days'' on this earth. The first one came when Adam fell into sin. Since then they have come in rapid and quick succession. Whenever anyone turns away from God, it is a ''cloudy and dark day'' for him. The "cloudy day" is a time of threatening, one never knows how bad it may become. It may soon become a "dark day" when all visibility is gone. Then the night of hell with its eternal blackness follows quickly.
The sheep were ''scattered'' in "the cloudy and dark day." When visibility is poor it is easy to get lost. On cloudy days only those sheep who stay close to the shepherd remain with the flock. It is the sheep who follow "afar off" that get scattered. Being "afar off," they may in a moment of carelessness lose sight of the shepherd and go their own way.
For a while these wandering sheep find the going easy enough. Then comes the darkness and they realize they are "scattered." Once a sheep loses sight of the shepherd he is an easy victim for the wolf. Satan, the wolf that is always after God's sheep, has feasted on many a "scattered" one. Now he has nothing to fear for there is no shepherd to protect them. The sheep themselves have no strength to ward off such a beast.
The places where these sheep are scattered vary. Lost sheep run anywhere for they have lost their sense of direction and have no shepherd to guide them. Satan can drive such wanderers wherever he may desire. Many he has driven into despair, discouragement, selfishness, unhappiness, grief, and hopelessness. Some are even tempted to end their own lives because they see no reason for continuing to live. They remember the happy days while they were in the flock of God, but now everything is so different. Surely the cloudy day can become dark. Oftentimes it becomes dark at noontide when it should be brightest. Many lives become dark and purposeless when they should be bright and hopeful.
Our God does not forsake His sheep in the dark and cloudy day. We are still living in the day of grace. Therefore He offers to "deliver them out of all places whither they have been scattered.'' We are sometimes tempted to believe our God loves only the sheep He has in the flock and not those who have wandered away. But the very word of God we are now considering makes it clear that He is after the scattered sheep. Notice, He does not say He will deliver them out of most places, but out of all places. No sheep has wandered so far away, that He does not stand ready to deliver it. He does not chide His sheep for being scattered, but rather comes to deliver them. "Deliver" is the opposite of "scatter." The one spells hope; the other spells doom. Our Lord comes to give hope to the hopeless.
Our God has promised to go for the sheep Himself. "I will seek out my sheep and will deliver them out of all places whither they have been scattered in the cloudy and dark day." The angels are not entrusted with this mission, for our God will Himself do the task. He will be the Good Shepherd. His all-seeing eye can locate all lost souls. He will seek them out individually. Surely no wandering sheep can long resist such love. Listen to Christ, the Sheep Finder, as He cries out "I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd layeth down his life for the sheep. . . .And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and they shall become one flock, one shepherd'' (John 10:11,16).
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
3. The God of All Comfort
My Heart's Desire
Maynard A. Force
Chapter 3
The God of All Comfort
Blessed be the . . . God of all comfort; who comforteth us in all our affliction, that we may be able to comfort them that are in any affliction, through the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. 2 Corinthians 1: 3-4.
The name ''God of all comfort'' is a wonderful introduction to God. It is a personal introduction made especially for our benefit.
God wants it known that He is "the God of all comfort." How sweeping this statement is! It means He has comfort enough for any situation in which we might find ourselves. It is foolish, then, to seek comfort elsewhere. Oh, for grace never to forget that our God is the "God of all comfort''! This truth is one that is hard to retain. It seems that in a time of testing, the very atmosphere is charged with forgetfulness. Clouds form that dim the majestic presence of our God. But as clouds can never remove the mountains, although they may hide them for the time being, so neither can clouds of sorrow remove the "God of all comfort." They merely hide Him for a time.
He "comforteth us in all our affliction." The apostle Paul had experienced this comfort. He could testify, "I am filled with comfort; I overflow with joy in all our affliction'' (2 Corinthians 7: 4). Can this be possible? Of course it can, for "God is able to make, all grace abound unto you; that ye, having always all sufficiency in everything, may abound unto every good work'' (2 Corinthians 9.8). How sad that so few people believe in the promises of God! Not only does He make these great promises, but He adds, "I watch over my word to perform it'' (Jeremiah 1. 12). He "is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think'' (Ephesians 3. 20). Therefore, when He offers us comfort, we may know that He can bestow it.
Our God "comforteth us in all our affliction." Let us take special notice of the little word "us"-- "comforteth us." It is one of the smallest of words, and yet big enough to include all who read these lines. Then, too, note the word ''all''-"in all our affliction." That includes any testing that may come our way. It would be a waste of words for our God to enumerate all the various afflictions in which He can give comfort. He merely includes them all in that one inclusive statement, "comforteth us in all our affliction." Then if there is any affliction in which we have not yet received comfort, it is because we have not turned ourselves over to the "God of all comfort." At times of intense testing, it is hard to believe that God can comfort us. We imagine our sorrow greater than the comfort that He may have. These thoughts are from the evil one, for they are contrary to the Word of God.
God comforts us so that we in turn "may be able to comfort them that are in any affliction." This we can only do when the cure is complete. Who would ever recommend to another medicine that failed to bring the desired results to himself? But how joyful it is to pass on a cure that works! The comfort cure from God is so complete that those who have experienced it are in a position to help them that are in ''any affliction." "Any affliction" includes all needs which call for comfort. This then is God's "cure-all," and should be quickly passed on to those in need. His messengers are those who have first been cured themselves.
Dear friend, you who feel your need of comfort, look to God. You are invited to "taste and see that Jehovah is good: blessed is the man that taketh refuge in him'' (Psalm 34.8). One of the names given to the Holy Spirit is "Comforter.'' The ''God of all comfort'' stands ready to handle your case. He alone can give you help. He has given us this introduction of Himself, that through the ''comfort of the scriptures we might have hope'' (Romans 15. 4).
Maynard A. Force
Chapter 3
The God of All Comfort
Blessed be the . . . God of all comfort; who comforteth us in all our affliction, that we may be able to comfort them that are in any affliction, through the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God. 2 Corinthians 1: 3-4.
The name ''God of all comfort'' is a wonderful introduction to God. It is a personal introduction made especially for our benefit.
God wants it known that He is "the God of all comfort." How sweeping this statement is! It means He has comfort enough for any situation in which we might find ourselves. It is foolish, then, to seek comfort elsewhere. Oh, for grace never to forget that our God is the "God of all comfort''! This truth is one that is hard to retain. It seems that in a time of testing, the very atmosphere is charged with forgetfulness. Clouds form that dim the majestic presence of our God. But as clouds can never remove the mountains, although they may hide them for the time being, so neither can clouds of sorrow remove the "God of all comfort." They merely hide Him for a time.
He "comforteth us in all our affliction." The apostle Paul had experienced this comfort. He could testify, "I am filled with comfort; I overflow with joy in all our affliction'' (2 Corinthians 7: 4). Can this be possible? Of course it can, for "God is able to make, all grace abound unto you; that ye, having always all sufficiency in everything, may abound unto every good work'' (2 Corinthians 9.8). How sad that so few people believe in the promises of God! Not only does He make these great promises, but He adds, "I watch over my word to perform it'' (Jeremiah 1. 12). He "is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think'' (Ephesians 3. 20). Therefore, when He offers us comfort, we may know that He can bestow it.
Our God "comforteth us in all our affliction." Let us take special notice of the little word "us"-- "comforteth us." It is one of the smallest of words, and yet big enough to include all who read these lines. Then, too, note the word ''all''-"in all our affliction." That includes any testing that may come our way. It would be a waste of words for our God to enumerate all the various afflictions in which He can give comfort. He merely includes them all in that one inclusive statement, "comforteth us in all our affliction." Then if there is any affliction in which we have not yet received comfort, it is because we have not turned ourselves over to the "God of all comfort." At times of intense testing, it is hard to believe that God can comfort us. We imagine our sorrow greater than the comfort that He may have. These thoughts are from the evil one, for they are contrary to the Word of God.
God comforts us so that we in turn "may be able to comfort them that are in any affliction." This we can only do when the cure is complete. Who would ever recommend to another medicine that failed to bring the desired results to himself? But how joyful it is to pass on a cure that works! The comfort cure from God is so complete that those who have experienced it are in a position to help them that are in ''any affliction." "Any affliction" includes all needs which call for comfort. This then is God's "cure-all," and should be quickly passed on to those in need. His messengers are those who have first been cured themselves.
Dear friend, you who feel your need of comfort, look to God. You are invited to "taste and see that Jehovah is good: blessed is the man that taketh refuge in him'' (Psalm 34.8). One of the names given to the Holy Spirit is "Comforter.'' The ''God of all comfort'' stands ready to handle your case. He alone can give you help. He has given us this introduction of Himself, that through the ''comfort of the scriptures we might have hope'' (Romans 15. 4).
Monday, July 20, 2009
2. Burdens
Burdens (From "My Hearts Desire" by Maynard Force)
Cast thy burden upon Jehovah, and he will sustain thee. Psalm 55: 22.
Burdens are common to all. If an average group of people were asked to jot down their burdens, we would have a long and varied list. The young as well as the old would be represented. Suppose you were asked, what would you put down?
One burden differs from another. It may be some sin you committed in the past which is now pressing heavily on your conscience. It may be some worry that has lodged in your mind for which you can find no relief. Perhaps it is a fear of something that may come in the future. It may be some disappointment in life that has caused you bitterness. It may be a sorrow that overwhelms you. It may be something unique that bothers you, something unknown to any one else. It may even be some small, insignificant thing that you are ashamed to mention. It does not take much of a weight, if it presses in a sensitive place, to become a burden. A burden, then, can be anything that you are carrying that depresses you.
There are many different ways in which people seek to get rid of burdens, for no one wants to carry a load that causes him grief. Many have found temporary relief in keeping themselves feverishly busy with all kinds of things. Some avoid being alone, for then their burden becomes unbearable. Others seek to lighten their load by indulging in worldly pleasures, hoping that relief will come that way. Still others turn to alcohol or drugs, for while they are under their influence, their burdens seem to lighten. Others, again, break down under their burdens and become sick and despondent in body, mind, and soul. Then there are those who can not stand the pressure of their burdens, and hope to find escape by committing suicide. None of these methods effects cure. The poor burdened individual is far worse off after trying them than he was before.
Our text tells us to cast thy burden upon the Lord. This is the only remedy for troubled hearts. It is simple and free to all. People of all walks of life who have tried it can vouch for its effectiveness. Millions upon millions of people are carrying burdens they never should carry. It was never the Lord's plan that any soul should carry even one burden, for even the smallest burden is too much. If you are carrying one burden, it is one too many.
The Lord has given us many invitations to come directly to Him with our burdens. One such invitation is 1 Peter 5:7: "Casting all your anxiety upon him, because he careth for you." There can be no doubt that the Lord is inviting all burdened people to come directly to Him with their troubles.
Our burdens are to be "cast" upon Jehovah, even as a stone that is cast into the depths of the sea. If the stone falls into the sea, it is gone forever, as far as we are concerned. The Lord invites men and women to treat their burdens in the same way. He wants them, in simple confession, to unload them on Him, and He in turn has promised that He ''will cast all their sins into the depths of the sea'' (Micah 7: 19). This is God's way of dealing with the burdens which are causing us so much grief and unhappiness.
There is no better time to deal with burdens than right now. Now is the time to transfer them to the Lord. He has asked for them, so let us honor His request. This is one time we can give Him something He actually desires. Pause as long as you must, but make the transaction. Remember it is a one-way affair - from you to the Lord. Don't let Satan tempt you to believe your burdens are not safe there. If you do, you will soon be doing as so many have done in the past-you will pick them up again and be no better off. When you are thus tempted, remember what you have given to the Lord no longer belongs to you. Each time you are tempted to retrace your steps, pray for grace to trust the Lord. Then the temptation can be turned into a blessing. You will be able to say with the Psalmist,
"Blessed be the Lord, who daily beareth our burden, even the God who is our salvation'' (Psalm 68: 19).
To be continued.....
Cast thy burden upon Jehovah, and he will sustain thee. Psalm 55: 22.
Burdens are common to all. If an average group of people were asked to jot down their burdens, we would have a long and varied list. The young as well as the old would be represented. Suppose you were asked, what would you put down?
One burden differs from another. It may be some sin you committed in the past which is now pressing heavily on your conscience. It may be some worry that has lodged in your mind for which you can find no relief. Perhaps it is a fear of something that may come in the future. It may be some disappointment in life that has caused you bitterness. It may be a sorrow that overwhelms you. It may be something unique that bothers you, something unknown to any one else. It may even be some small, insignificant thing that you are ashamed to mention. It does not take much of a weight, if it presses in a sensitive place, to become a burden. A burden, then, can be anything that you are carrying that depresses you.
There are many different ways in which people seek to get rid of burdens, for no one wants to carry a load that causes him grief. Many have found temporary relief in keeping themselves feverishly busy with all kinds of things. Some avoid being alone, for then their burden becomes unbearable. Others seek to lighten their load by indulging in worldly pleasures, hoping that relief will come that way. Still others turn to alcohol or drugs, for while they are under their influence, their burdens seem to lighten. Others, again, break down under their burdens and become sick and despondent in body, mind, and soul. Then there are those who can not stand the pressure of their burdens, and hope to find escape by committing suicide. None of these methods effects cure. The poor burdened individual is far worse off after trying them than he was before.
Our text tells us to cast thy burden upon the Lord. This is the only remedy for troubled hearts. It is simple and free to all. People of all walks of life who have tried it can vouch for its effectiveness. Millions upon millions of people are carrying burdens they never should carry. It was never the Lord's plan that any soul should carry even one burden, for even the smallest burden is too much. If you are carrying one burden, it is one too many.
The Lord has given us many invitations to come directly to Him with our burdens. One such invitation is 1 Peter 5:7: "Casting all your anxiety upon him, because he careth for you." There can be no doubt that the Lord is inviting all burdened people to come directly to Him with their troubles.
Our burdens are to be "cast" upon Jehovah, even as a stone that is cast into the depths of the sea. If the stone falls into the sea, it is gone forever, as far as we are concerned. The Lord invites men and women to treat their burdens in the same way. He wants them, in simple confession, to unload them on Him, and He in turn has promised that He ''will cast all their sins into the depths of the sea'' (Micah 7: 19). This is God's way of dealing with the burdens which are causing us so much grief and unhappiness.
There is no better time to deal with burdens than right now. Now is the time to transfer them to the Lord. He has asked for them, so let us honor His request. This is one time we can give Him something He actually desires. Pause as long as you must, but make the transaction. Remember it is a one-way affair - from you to the Lord. Don't let Satan tempt you to believe your burdens are not safe there. If you do, you will soon be doing as so many have done in the past-you will pick them up again and be no better off. When you are thus tempted, remember what you have given to the Lord no longer belongs to you. Each time you are tempted to retrace your steps, pray for grace to trust the Lord. Then the temptation can be turned into a blessing. You will be able to say with the Psalmist,
"Blessed be the Lord, who daily beareth our burden, even the God who is our salvation'' (Psalm 68: 19).
To be continued.....
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