PART XII. CHRISTIAN GROWTH AND EXPERIENCE

Jacob Going Down Into Egypt. "God Almighty appeared unto me ... and blessed me." Gen 48:3.

Growth In Grace

Gideon Choosing His Army. "Whosoever is fearful and afraid, let him return and depart." Judges 7:3.

1. How does the apostle Peter close his second epistle?

“But _grow in grace_, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 3:18.

2. How may grace and peace be multiplied in believers?

“Grace and peace be multiplied unto you _through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord_.” 2 Peter 1:2.

3. What is implied in a knowledge of God and Jesus Christ?

“And _this is life eternal_, that they might know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent.” John 17:3.

4. By what may we be partakers of the divine nature?

“Whereby are given unto us _exceeding great and precious promises_: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust.” 2 Peter 1:4.

5. What graces are we to add in our character building?

“Add to your faith _virtue_ [courage]; and to virtue _knowledge_; and to knowledge _temperance_ [self-control]; and to temperance _patience_; and to patience _godliness_; and to godliness _brotherly kindness_; and to brotherly kindness _charity_.” Verses 5-7.

NOTES.—_Faith_ is the first round in the Christian ladder, the first step Godward. “He that cometh to God must _believe_.” Heb. 11:6.

But an inoperative faith is useless. “Faith without _works_ is dead.” James 2:20. To be of value, there must be coupled with faith that _virtue_, or _courage of conviction_, which impels to _action_.

To courage there needs to be added _knowledge_; otherwise, like the stumbling Jews, one may have a zeal, “but _not according to knowledge_.” Rom. 10:2. Fanaticism is the result of such courage, or zeal. Knowledge, therefore, is an essential to healthy Christian growth.

To knowledge there needs to be added _temperance_, or _self-control_—_self-government_. See Acts 24:25, American Standard Version, and margin of Revised Version. To know to do good, and not do it, is as useless as is faith without works. See James 4:17. Instead of _temperance_, the Twentieth Century New Testament invariably says _self-control_.

_Patience_ naturally follows _temperance_. It is well-nigh impossible for an intemperate person to be _patient_.

Having gained control of oneself, and become patient, one is in a condition to manifest _godliness_, or _God-likeness_.

Having become godly, _kindness toward the brethren_, or _brotherly kindness_, naturally follows.

_Charity_, or love for _all_, even our _enemies_, is the crowning grace, the highest step, the eighth round, in the Christian ladder.

The arrangement in this enumeration of graces is by no means accidental or haphazard, but logical and sequential, each following the other in natural, necessary order. The finger of Inspiration is seen here.

6. What is said of charity in the Scriptures?

“Charity _suffereth long, and is kind; ... thinketh no evil; rejoiceth not in iniquity_, but _rejoiceth in the truth; beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things_.” 1 Cor. 13:4-7. “And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for _charity shall cover the multitude of sins_.” 1 Peter 4:8. “Love covereth all sins.” Prov. 10:12.

7. What is charity called?

“And above all these things put on charity, which is _the bond of perfectness_.” Col. 3:14.

8. What is the result of cultivating these eight graces?

“For if these things be in you, and abound, _they make you that ye shall neither be barren nor unfruitful in the knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ_.” 2 Peter 1:8.

9. What is the condition of one who lacks these graces?

“But he that lacketh these things _is blind, and cannot see afar off, and hath forgotten that he was purged from his old sins_.” Verse 9.

10. What is promised those who add grace to grace?

“If ye do these things, _ye shall never fall_.” Verse 10.

The Christian Armor

Midianites Put To Flight. "The weapons of our warfare are not carnal." 2 Cor. 10:4.

1. What power was to make war upon the remnant church prior to the second advent?

“And _the dragon_ [Satan] was wroth with the woman, and went to make war with the remnant of her seed, which keep the commandments of God, and have the testimony of Jesus Christ.” Rev. 12:17.

2. What reward is promised to the overcomer?

“To him that overcometh will I give _to eat of the tree of life_, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.” Rev. 2:7. See also Rev. 2:11, 17, 26-28; 3:5, 12, 21. “He that overcometh shall inherit _all things_.” Rev. 21:7.

3. Through whom are we able to conquer?

“Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors _through Him that loved us_.” Rom. 8:37.

4. Who was the invisible leader of the armies of Israel?

“Behold, there stood a man over against him with His sword drawn in His hand: and Joshua went unto Him, and said unto Him, Art thou for us, or for our adversaries? And He said, Nay; but as _captain of the host of the Lord_ am I now come.” Joshua 5:13, 14. See also 1 Cor. 10:1-4.

5. What is the character of the Christian’s weapons of warfare?

“For the weapons of our warfare are _not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strongholds_.” 2 Cor. 10:4.

6. What are these weapons able to conquer?

“Casting down _imaginations_, and _every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God_, and bringing into captivity _every thought_ to the obedience of Christ.” Verse 5.

7. What are we to put on?

“_Put on the whole armor of God_, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” Eph. 6:11.

8. With what kind of forces do we have to contend?

“For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against _principalities_, against _powers_, against _the rulers of the darkness of this world_, against _spiritual wickedness in high places_.” Verse 12.

NOTE.—The margin says, “wicked spirits” in “heavenly” places.

9. What are the first essentials of the needed armor?

“Stand therefore, having your _loins girt about with truth_, and having on _the breastplate of righteousness_.” Verse 14.

10. What is the truth with which one’s loins should be girded?

“Sanctify them through Thy truth: _Thy word is truth_.” “I am the way, the truth.” John 17:17; 14:6.

11. What is meant by having the loins girded?

“Wherefore gird up _the loins of your mind_.” 1 Peter 1:13.

12. What is the righteousness of which the breastplate is composed?

“My tongue shall speak of Thy word: for _all Thy commandments are righteousness_.” Ps. 119:172. “And this is His name whereby He shall be called, _The Lord Our Righteousness_.” Jer. 23:6. See Rom. 13:14; 1 Thess. 5:8.

13. With what are the feet to be shod?

“And your feet shod with _the preparation of the gospel of peace_.” Eph. 6:15. See also Eph. 2:14; James 3:18.

14. What piece of armor is next mentioned as necessary?

“Above all, taking _the shield of faith_, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.” Eph. 6:16. See 1 John 5:4; Heb. 11:6.

15. What armor is to be put on as a protection to the head?

“And take _the helmet of salvation_.” Eph. 6:17.

NOTE.—In 1 Thess. 5:8 the helmet is called “the _hope_ of salvation.” The helmet was worn to protect the head. So the hope of salvation will preserve the courage, and thus aid in protecting the spiritual life of the Christian pilgrim when beset by the enemy of righteousness.

16. With what sword is the Christian soldier to be armed?

“_The sword of the Spirit_, which is _the word of God_.” Eph. 6:17.

NOTE.—By this Christ defeated the enemy. See Matt. 4:1-11; Luke 4:1-13. But no one can _use this sword_ who does not _know_ it. Hence, the importance of studying and knowing the Bible.

17. In what words are the courage, faithfulness, and loyalty of the remnant church expressed?

“And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and _they loved not their lives unto the death_.” Rev. 12:11.

18. Will Christ’s loyal soldiers be victorious under Him?

“And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had _gotten the victory_ over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God.” Rev. 15:2.

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Soldiers of Christ, arise, And put your armor on; Fight, for the battle will be ours; We fight to win a crown.

We fight not against flesh, We wrestle not with blood; But principalities and powers, And for the truth of God.

With wicked spirits, too, That in high places stand, Perverting oft the Word of God, And say ’tis by command.

Put all the armor on, Like valiant soldiers stand; Let all your loins be girt with truth, Waiting our Lord’s command.

While Jesus is our friend, And His rich grace supplies, We’ll march like valiant soldiers on: We’re sure to win the prize.

The battle’s almost o’er; The race is nearly run; Then with our glorious, conquering King We’ll sit down on His throne.

CHARLES WESLEY.

Paul At Ephesus. "Many ... which used curious arts brought their books, ... and burned them." Acts 19:19.

Walking In The Light

Abraham’s Journey To Canaan. "By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out, ... obeyed." Heb. 11:8.

1. How important is it that we walk in the light when it comes to us?

“Walk while ye have the light, _lest darkness come upon you_: for he that walketh in darkness knoweth not whither he goeth.” John 12:35.

NOTE.—It is important to settle a plain question of duty at once, and not delay obedience under the excuse of waiting for more light. To do as did Balaam—ask God again concerning that which He has plainly and expressly spoken—is dangerous. Nor should we, like the unbelieving Jews, seek a sign from heaven to convince us that we ought to obey the written Word. Has God spoken? Is it His word? Then obey. Do not insult Heaven with the question whether it is right to obey. If one gets an answer to such prayers, it will more than likely be a permission to have one’s own chosen way of continuing in disobedience, the end of which is death. See 1 Kings 22:1-36; Eze. 14:1-5.

2. Upon what condition are we promised cleansing from sin?

“_But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light_, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.” 1 John 1:7.

3. How long may the just expect increased light to shine upon their pathway?

“But the path of the just is as the shining light, _that shineth more and more unto the perfect day_.” Prov. 4:18.

4. For whom is light sown?

“_Light is sown for the righteous_, and gladness for the upright in heart.” Ps. 97:11.

NOTE.—The more earnestly one desires to know the will of God, while living up to all the light he has, the more light and truth from God will shine upon his pathway. The fact that one has the evidence of his acceptance with God, is no proof that he has all the light there is for him. If light is sown for the righteous, such are the very ones who may expect advanced light to come to them, and to see new duties presented to them from a study of the Word of God.

5. Who was told by an angel of God that his ways pleased the Lord?

“He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming in to him, and saying unto him, _Cornelius_. And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, What is it, Lord? And he said unto him, Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God.” Acts 10:3, 4.

6. Because Cornelius’s ways pleased the Lord, was this evidence that he had nothing more to learn or do?

“And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter: he lodgeth with one Simon a tanner, whose house is by the seaside: _he shall tell thee what thou oughtest to do_.” Verses 5, 6.

NOTE.—The reason why the Lord favored Cornelius with a visit from one of His angels, was not because Cornelius knew the way of salvation perfectly, but because the Lord saw in him a sincere desire for more light, and a willing mind to comply with every known requirement. That spirit was pleasing to God, and He therefore opened the way for Cornelius to learn the whole truth from Peter, that he might be saved. God never changes. He does the same now with sincere, devoted persons. All may now receive advanced light, if, like Cornelius, they seek it, and are willing to walk in it when it comes to them. If it is neglected, they are guilty before God, and will be left to the buffetings of the enemy.

7. What will become of the light which one has if he fails to walk in it?

“The light of the body is the eye: therefore when thine eye is single, thy whole body also is full of light; but when thine eye is evil, thy body also is full of darkness. _Take heed therefore that the light which is in thee be not darkness._” Luke 11:34, 35.

8. Why did Christ say that the sin of those who rejected Him remained?

“Jesus said unto them, If ye were blind, ye should have no sin: but now ye say, _We see_; therefore your sin remaineth.” John 9:41. See also John 15:22.

NOTE.—With advanced light comes increased responsibility. Duty is always in proportion to one’s light and privileges. Present truth always brings with it present duty. See reading on “Present Truth,” page 131.

9. Why are those condemned that do not come to the light?

“And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and _men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil_.” John 3:19.

10. If one is really seeking for truth, what will he do?

“But he that doeth truth _cometh to the light_, that his deeds may be made manifest, that they are wrought in God.” Verse 21.

11. What will those who reject light and truth, finally be led to believe?

“And for this cause God shall send them strong delusion, _that they should believe a lie_: that they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness.” 2 Thess. 2:11, 12.

NOTE.—The opposite of light is darkness; the opposite of truth is a lie. For those who reject light and truth, only darkness and error remain. God is sometimes in the Scriptures represented as sending that which he permits to come. See Ps. 81:12; 1 Kings 22:20-23; Rom. 1:21-28.

12. Who is the light of the world?

“_I am the light of the world_: he that followeth Me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” John 8:12.

13. How are we to walk in Christ?

“_As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord_, so walk ye in Him.” Col. 2:6.

14. What has God given to guide our feet aright in the path of truth and duty?

“_Thy word is a lamp_ unto my feet, and _a light_ unto my path.” Ps. 119:105. See Prov. 6:23.

15. What does the entrance of God’s word give?

“The entrance of Thy word _giveth light_; it giveth understanding unto the simple.” Ps. 119:130.

16. Who does Christ say will be blessed through the prophecies of the book of Revelation?

“Blessed is _he that readeth_, and _they that hear_ the words of this prophecy, _and keep those things which are written therein_.” Rev. 1:3.

NOTE.—We are in the last days, in the generation that is to hear the final warning message contained in this book. See Rev. 14:6-10; 18:1-5. Those who accept this message are described as keeping the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. See Rev. 12:17; 14:12; 22:14; and readings on pages 251-263. Now especially this book should be studied.

17. May those who have once been led of God, be rejected by Him on account of unbelief?

“I will therefore put you in remembrance, though ye once knew this, how that the Lord, having saved the people out of the land of Egypt, _afterward destroyed them that believed not_.” Jude 5.

18. Upon what condition only may we be made partakers of Christ?

“For we are made partakers of Christ, _if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end_.” Heb. 3:14. See Matt. 10: 22; 24:12, 13; Heb. 10:35-39.

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Walk in the light! so shalt thou know That fellowship of love His Spirit only can bestow Who reigns in light above.

Walk in the light! and thou shalt own Thy darkness passed away; Because that light on thee hath shone In which is perfect day.

Walk in the light! and e’en the tomb No fearful shade shall wear; Glory shall chase away its gloom, For Christ hath conquered there.

Walk in the light! and thine shall be A path, though thorny, bright; For God, by grace, shall dwell in thee, And God Himself is light.

BERNARD BARTON.

Saving Faith

Jesus Walking On The Sea. "Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." Rom. 10:17.

1. What is faith?

“Faith is the _substance_ [margin, _ground_, or _confidence_] of things hoped for, the _evidence_ of things not seen.” Heb. 11:1.

2. How important is faith?

“_Without faith it is impossible to please Him_: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.” Verse 6.

3. How only can we truly know God?

“Neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, _and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal Him_.” Matt. 11:27.

4. In whom must we believe in order to be saved?

“For God so loved the world, that He gave _His only begotten Son_, that whosoever believeth in _Him_ should not perish but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.

5. What challenge does the apostle James make as to the evidence that one has genuine faith?

“Show me thy faith _without_ thy works, and I will show thee my faith _by_ my works.” James 2:18.

6. How did Abraham show that he had perfect faith in God?

“Was not Abraham our father justified by works, _when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar_? Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and _by works was faith made perfect_?” Verses 21, 22.

7. By what practical example does the apostle illustrate the difference between genuine, living faith, and a dead faith?

“If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food, and one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?” Verses 15, 16.

8. How necessary are works in maintaining living faith?

“But wilt thou know, O vain man, that _faith without works is dead_?... For _as the body without the spirit_ [margin, _breath_] _is dead, so faith without works is dead also_.” Verses 20-26.

NOTES.—The apostle was not here arguing for justification or salvation by faith _and_ works, but for a living faith—a faith _that_ works.

“There are two errors against which the children of God—particularly those who have just come to trust in His grace—especially need to guard. The first ... is that of looking to their own works, trusting to anything they can do, to bring themselves into harmony with God. He who is trying to become holy by his own works in keeping the law, is attempting an impossibility. All that man can do without Christ is polluted with selfishness and sin. It is the grace of Christ alone, through faith, that can make us holy. The opposite and no less dangerous error is that belief in Christ releases men from keeping the law of God; that since by faith alone we become partakers of the grace of Christ, our works have nothing to do with our redemption.... Obedience—the service and allegiance of love—is the true sign of discipleship.... Instead of releasing man from obedience, it is faith, and faith only, that makes us partakers of the grace of Christ, which enables us to render obedience. We do not earn salvation by our obedience; for salvation is the free gift of God, to be received by faith. But obedience is the fruit of faith.... That so-called faith in Christ which professes to release men from the obligation of obedience to God, is not faith, but presumption.”—_“__Steps to Christ,__”__ pages 64-66._

Says Luther: “If Christ alone takes away sin, we cannot do so by all our works. But good works follow redemption as surely as fruit appears upon a living tree.”—_D’Aubigne’s __“__History of the Reformation,__”_ book 2, chap. 6.

9. What does the hope of salvation lead one to do?

“And every man that hath this hope in Him _purifieth himself_, even as He is pure.” 1 John 3:3.

10. Upon what condition are we made partakers of Christ?

“For we are made partakers of Christ, _if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end_.” Heb. 3:14.

11. Upon what conditions has God promised us cleansing and the forgiveness of our sins?

“But _if we walk in the light_, as He is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin.... _If we confess our sins_, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:7-9.

NOTE.—Intelligent faith as to what God will do for us touching any matter must be gained by what God’s Word says concerning that point. No one can consistently hope for that which God has not promised. To expect that God will do that which He has never promised to do is only presumption. Faith is distinct from presumption. To have abiding confidence in the promise of God is faith; but presumption may rest entirely on feeling or desire. Feeling cannot therefore be relied on in the matter of faith. Faith is a pure belief, a confiding trust, in the promises of God, irrespective of feeling. This perfect trust enables one to surmount difficulties under the most trying circumstances, even when the feelings are depressed or well-nigh crushed.

12. Upon what, then, is genuine, saving faith based?

“Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by _the word of God_.” Rom. 10:17.

13. What was the cause of Peter’s sinking after he had started to meet the Saviour on the stormy sea?

“And immediately Jesus stretched forth His hand, and caught him, and said unto him, _O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?_” Matt. 14:31.

NOTE.—The boisterous sea caused Peter to doubt the strength of Christ’s word, “Come.”

14. With what is it our privilege to be filled?

“Now the God of hope _fill you with all joy and peace in believing_, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.” Rom. 15:13.

NOTE.—Faith may be strengthened by daily exercise. It is not some great thing, done once for all, that gives an individual faith; but an every-day, simple, childlike trust in God, and an implicit obedience to His Word. Some make faith a more difficult matter than God would have them, because they try to embrace too much at one time. They take on the burdens of tomorrow or next week, when the Lord supplies strength only for _today_. When tomorrow comes, grapple with its duties, but not until it does come. We should remember the precious promise, “As thy days, so shall thy strength be.” Deut. 33:25.

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Away, my unbelieving fear! Fear shall in me no more have place: My Saviour doth not yet appear, He hides the brightness of His face; But shall I therefore let Him go, And basely to the tempter yield?— No, in the strength of Jesus, no; I never will give up my shield.

CHARLES WESLEY.

Trials And Their Object

Job Hearing Of His Losses. "Tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope." Rom. 5:3, 4.

1. What does the apostle Peter say concerning the trials through which every believer must pass?

“Beloved, _think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you_, as though some strange thing happened unto you: but rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ’s sufferings; that, when His glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy.” 1 Peter 4:12, 13.

2. How important is the trial of our faith?

“That the trial of your faith, _being much more precious than of gold that perisheth_, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 1:7.

NOTES.—“When David was fleeing through the wilderness, pursued by his own son, he was being prepared to become the sweet singer of Israel. The pit and the dungeon were the best schools at which Joseph ever graduated. The hurricane that upset the tent and killed Job’s children prepared the man of Uz to write the magnificent poem that has astonished the ages. There is no way to get the wheat out of the straw but to thresh it out. There is no way to purify the gold but to burn it.”—_Talmage’s __“__One Thousand Gems,__”__ page 83._

Nothing “happens” to the Christian. Everything that enters his life is sent or permitted to come by an all-wise and all-loving Heavenly Father, and is designed for the perfection of character, and the fitting up and the enlargement of capacity for service. The rocks and rough places on the mountainside are the things we climb on. Even failures, if taken rightly, may become stepping-stones to higher ground.

3. What reason did Paul give for glorying in tribulations?

“We glory in tribulations also: _knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope: and hope maketh not ashamed_; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us.” Rom. 5:3-5.

4. What, according to the prophecy of Daniel, was to befall the people of God down through the ages?

“And they that understand among the people shall instruct many: _yet they shall fall by the sword, and by flame, by captivity, and by spoil, many days_.” Dan. 11:33.

5. Why was this to be?

“And some of them of understanding shall fall, _to try them, and to purge, and to make them white_, even to the time of the end.” Verse 35.

6. Looking forward to the conflicts through which His followers must pass, what cheering message did Christ send them through the revelator?

“_Fear none of those things which thou shall suffer_: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, _that ye may be tried; ... be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.... He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death._” Rev. 2:10, 11. See notes on pages 282, 314.

7. What description does Paul give of the sufferings endured by some of God’s people in former ages?

“Others were _tortured_, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection: and others had trial of _cruel mockings_ and _scourgings_, yea, moreover of _bonds_ and _imprisonment_: they were _stoned_, they were _sawn asunder_, were _tempted_, were _slain with the sword_: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; (of whom the world was not worthy:) _they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth_.” Heb. 11:35-38.

8. How many does Paul say will suffer persecution?

“Yea, and _all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution_.” 2 Tim. 3:12.

9. Does God willingly afflict the children of men?

“For the Lord will not cast off forever: but though He cause grief, yet will He have compassion according to the multitude of His mercies. _For He doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men._” Lam. 3:31-33.

10. Why, then, does God permit the chastening rod to fall?

“For they [parents] verily for a few days chastened us after their own pleasure; but He _for our profit, that we might be partakers of His holiness_.” Heb. 12:10.

11. Referring to Peter’s coming sore trial, for what did Christ say He had prayed?

“Satan hath desired to have you, that he may sift you as wheat: but I have prayed for thee, _that thy faith fail not_.” Luke 22:31, 32.

12. What cheering promise is made to those who endure the trials and temptations of this life?

“Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, _he shall receive the crown of life_, which the Lord hath promised to them that love Him.” James 1:12.

NOTE.—Says a Christian writer: “Our sorrows do not spring out of the ground. God ‘doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men.’ When He permits trials and afflictions, it is ‘for our profit, that we might be partakers of His holiness.’ If received in faith, the trial that seems so bitter and hard to bear will prove a blessing. The cruel blow that blights the joys of earth will be the means of turning our eyes to heaven. How many there are who would never have known Jesus had not sorrow led them to seek comfort in Him! The trials of life are God’s workmen, to remove the impurities and roughness from our character. Their hewing, squaring, and chiseling, and their burnishing and polishing, is a painful process. It is hard to be pressed down to the grinding-wheel. But the stone is brought forth prepared to fill its place in the heavenly temple.”

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There’s never a night but is followed by day, And the darkest to dawn must give place: There’s never a sorrow that crosses our way But is sent with a message of grace. It comes to the peasant, it comes to the king, It comes in our pleasures and pain; It comes from the Father of mercies, to bring To His fold His own stray ones again. O soul! is thy burden too heavy to bear? Does the load seem too weighty for one? There’s a Helper at hand all thy sorrows to share, ’Tis thy Father’s own well-beloved Son. Then cast every burden on Jesus thy Lord, And thy troubles will quickly depart; Make every sweet promise in His precious Word An entrance to His loving heart.

REV. JOHN WILLIAMS.

Overcoming

Meeting Of Jacob And Esau. "But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ." 1 Cor. 15:57.

1. What overcomes the world?

“For _whatsoever is born of God_ overcometh the world.” 1 John 5:4, first part.

2. In whose victory may the Christian ever rejoice and take courage?

“These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; _I have overcome the world_.” John 16:33.

3. Who is it that overcomes?

“Who is he that overcometh the world, but _he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God_?” 1 John 5:5.

4. Through what, then, is the victory gained in the work of overcoming?

“And this is the victory that overcometh the world, even _our faith_.” Verse 4. last part.

5. Through whom do we obtain the victory?

“But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory _through our Lord Jesus Christ_.” 1 Cor. 15:57. “Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors _through Him that loved us_.” Rom. 8:37.

6. How did Christ overcome when tempted?

By the Word of God. See Matt. 4:1-11.

7. How do the Scriptures say the saints overcame the enemy?

“And they overcame him _by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony_; and they loved not their lives unto the death.” Rev. 12:11.

8. With what does the apostle Paul tell us to overcome evil?

“Be not overcome of evil, but _overcome evil with good_.” Rom. 12:21.

9. Why was Jacob’s name changed to Israel?

“And he said, Thy name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel: _for as a prince hast thou power with God and with men, and hast prevailed_.” Gen. 32:28.

Exceeding Great And Precious Promises

“To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.” Rev. 2:7.

“He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.” Verse 11.

“To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna.” Verse 17.

“He that overcometh, and keepeth My works unto the end, to him will I give power over the nations.” Verse 26.

“He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I will not blot out his name out of the book of life, but I will confess his name before My Father, and before His angels.” Rev. 3:5.

“Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the temple of My God.” Verse 12.

“To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with Me in My throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with My Father in His throne.” Verse 21.

“He that overcometh shall inherit _all things_; and I will be his God, and he shall be My son.” Rev. 21:7.

Jacob Wrestling With The Angel. "And he said, I will not let Thee go, except Thou bless me.... And He blessed him there." Gen. 32:26-28.

The Ministry Of Sorrow

Gethsemane. "He doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men." Lam. 3:33.

1. Why is it better to go to the house of mourning than to the house of feasting?

“It is better to go to the house of mourning, than to go to the house of feasting: _for that is the end of all men; and the living will lay it to his heart_.” Eccl. 7:2.

2. What did David ask God to teach him?

“Lord, _make me to know mine end_, and the measure of my days, what it is, _that I may know how frail I am_.” Ps. 39:4. See also Ps. 90:12.

3. Why is sorrow better than laughter?

“Sorrow is better than laughter: _for by the sadness of the countenance the heart is made better_.” Eccl. 7:3.

NOTE.—“Many of the loveliest songs of peace and trust and hope which God’s children sing in this world they have been taught in the hushed and darkened chambers of sorrow.... Afflictions, sanctified, soften the asperities of life. They tame the wildness of nature. They temper human ambitions. They burn out the dross of selfishness and worldliness. They humble pride. They quell fierce passions. They reveal to men their own hearts, their own weakness, faults, blemishes, and perils. They teach patience and submission. They discipline unruly spirits. They deepen and enrich our experience.”—_“__Week-Day Religion,__”__ by J. R. Miller, D. D., pages 92, 93._

4. Are the righteous freed from afflictions in this world?

“_Many are the afflictions of the righteous_: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all.” Ps. 34:19.

5. Does God delight to afflict any?

“For the Lord will not cast off forever: but though He cause grief, yet will He have compassion according to the multitude of His mercies. _For He doth not afflict willingly nor grieve the children of men._” Lam. 3:31-33.

6. Does He afflict to leave the one chastened in despair?

“Behold, happy is the man whom God correcteth: therefore despise not thou the chastening of the Almighty: _for He maketh sore, and bindeth up: He woundeth, and His hands make whole_.” Job 5:17, 18.

7. In what language is the same truth again expressed?

“Come, and let us return unto the Lord: for _He hath torn, and He will heal us; He hath smitten, and He will bind us up_.” Hosea 6:1. See also Isa. 61:1-3.

8. Whom does the Lord chasten?

“For _whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth_, and scourgeth every son whom He receiveth.” Heb. 12:6.

9. Is this, for the time being, a source of pleasure?

“Now _no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous_: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.” Verse 11.

NOTE.—“Many of the sweetest joys of Christian hearts are songs which have been learned in the bitterness of trial.” “Many a cold, icy nature is made warm and tender by the grief that crushes it.”—_“__Week-Day Religion,__”_ by J. R. Miller, D. D., pages 91, 93.

10. What, aside from sin, causes more sorrow than all else?

Death, or the loss of loved ones.

11. Does death bring to Christians unassuaged sorrow?

“I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, _that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope_.” 1 Thess. 4:13.

NOTE.—The loss of loved ones God often uses as a means of conversion, and of severing the ties which bind to earth. Persecution; sickness; the loss of sight, hearing, or limb; the loss of property; or other calamities, may likewise be instrumental in drawing us nearer to God. See Ps. 119:71; Isa. 26:9.

12. What do our transient afflictions do for us?

“For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, _worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory_.” 2 Cor. 4:17. See Rom. 8:28.

Comfort In Affliction

David Mourning For Absalom. "When thou passest through the waters, I will be with thee." Isa. 43:2.

1. Are God’s people free from affliction?

“_Many are the afflictions of the righteous_: but the Lord delivereth him out of them all.” Ps. 34:19.

2. How does God regard the afflicted?

“He _heareth the cry_ of the afflicted.” Job 34:28.

3. What has He promised to be to those in trouble?

“God is our refuge and strength, _a very present help in trouble_.” Ps. 46:1.

4. With what feelings does the Lord look upon His children?

“_Like as a father pitieth his children_, so the Lord pitieth them that fear Him.” Ps. 103:13.

5. What does He know and remember?

“For He knoweth _our frame_; He remembereth _that we are dust_.” Verse 14.

6. What has the Lord promised to be to the oppressed?

“The Lord also will be _a refuge for the oppressed, a refuge in times of trouble_.” Ps. 9:9.

7. What has God promised His children when passing through trials and afflictions?

“When thou passest through the waters, _I will be with thee_; and through the rivers, _they shall not overflow thee_: when thou walkest through the fire, _thou shalt not be burned; neither shall the flame kindle upon thee_.” Isa. 43:2.

8. What did David say with reference to his being afflicted?

“_It is good for me that I have been afflicted_; that I might learn Thy statutes.” Ps. 119:71.

9. When afflicted, for what did he pray?

“Look upon my affliction and my pain; and _forgive all my sins_.” Ps. 25:18.

10. Before he was afflicted, what did he do?

“_Before I was afflicted I went astray_: but now have I kept Thy word.” Ps. 119:67.

11. What did Christ learn through suffering?

“Though He were a Son, yet _learned He obedience by the things which He suffered_.” Heb. 5:8.

12. In perfecting character, what must come to all?

“And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou _the chastening of the Lord_; nor faint when thou art rebuked of Him: _for whom the Lord loveth He chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom He receiveth_.” Heb. 12:5, 6.

13. Is this chastening a pleasant experience?

“Now _no chastening for the present seemeth to be joyous, but grievous_: nevertheless afterward it yieldeth the peaceable fruit of righteousness unto them which are exercised thereby.” Verse 11.

14. What courage and strength, therefore, should come to us even in the hour of affliction?

“Wherefore _lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees_.” Verse 12. See also Job 4:3, 4; Isa. 35:3.

15. What did Job say in the midst of his afflictions?

“Though He slay me, yet will I trust in Him.” Job 13:15.

16. What is God called in the Scriptures?

“The God of all comfort.” 2 Cor. 1:3.

17. Whom does God comfort?

“God, that comforteth _those that are cast down_.” 2 Cor. 7:6.

Christ The Consoler. "Come unto Me, all ye that labor and are heavy-laden, and I will give you rest." Matt. 11:28.

18. What promise is made to those that mourn?

“Blessed are they that mourn: for _they shall be comforted_.” Matt. 5:4.

19. Why does God comfort us in tribulation?

“Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, _that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort where-*with we ourselves are comforted of God_.” 2 Cor. 1:4.

NOTE.—One who has passed through trouble and affliction himself, and received comfort from God, is better able to minister comfort to others.

20. How should we sympathize with others in their sorrows?

“Weep with them that weep.” Rom. 12:15. “To him that is afflicted _pity should be showed from his friend_.” Job 6:14.

21. Does Jesus sympathize with us in our afflictions?

“For we have not an high priest which cannot be _touched with the feeling of our infirmities_; but was in all points tempted like as we are.” Heb. 4:15.

22. How did He manifest His sympathy in the case of Mary and her friends weeping over the death of Lazarus?

“When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews also weeping which came with her, _He groaned in the spirit, and was troubled_, and said, Where have ye laid him? They said unto Him, Lord, come and see. _Jesus wept._” John 11:33-35.

NOTE.—Not alone for Mary and her friends did Jesus weep. Looking down through the ages, He saw the tears and the heartaches which death would bring to mankind in this sin-stricken world. His heart was touched with human woe, and He wept with those that wept.

23. Whatever may come, what blessed assurance has every one who loves God?

“And we know that _all things work together for good to them that love God_.” Rom. 8:28.

NOTE.—If one loves God, he may rest assured that out of every trial and affliction good will come.

24. In bereavement, like whom should we not sorrow?

“As others which have no hope.” 1 Thess. 4:13.

25. When our friends fall asleep in death, with what words are we told to comfort one another?

“For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with Him.... For the Lord Himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the Archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. _Wherefore comfort one another with these words._” Verses 14-18.

26. What promise has God made to bereaved mothers?

“Thus saith the Lord; Refrain thy voice from weeping, and thine eyes from tears: for thy work shall be rewarded, saith the Lord; and _they shall come again from the land of the enemy_.” Jer. 31:16.

27. What did Christ say would be the experience of His people in this world?

“_In the world ye shall have tribulation_: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” “_Ye shall weep and lament_, but the world shall rejoice: and _ye shall be sorrowful_, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy.” John 16:33, 20.

28. In what respect is the reaping of God’s people to differ from their sowing?

“_They that sow in tears shall reap in joy._ He that goeth forth and _weepeth_, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with _rejoicing_, bringing his sheaves with him.” Ps. 126:5, 6.

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Sometime when all life’s lessons have been learned, And sun and moon forevermore have set, The things that our weak judgments here have spurned, The things o’er which we grieved with lashes wet, Will flash before us, out of life’s dark night, As stars shine most in deepest tints of blue, And we shall see how all God’s ways were right, And how what seemed reproof was love most true.

MAY RILEY SMITH.

Be of good cheer! I know sometime Life’s song will run in perfect rhyme. Somewhere, I know, all things will be Attuned to perfect harmony. Sometime, somewhere, each sad refrain Shall be its own surcease of pain. The compensation love will send Will be in bringing friend to friend; And all the heartaches that we bore, In God’s good time will be no more.

ROBERT LEE WALDEN.

Trusting In Jesus

Peter’s Deliverance. "In Him shall the Gentiles trust." Rom. 15:12.

1. What did the prophet Isaiah predict of Christ?

“And in that day there shall be a root of Jesse, which shall stand for an ensign of the people; _to it shall the Gentiles seek: and His rest shall be glorious_.” Isa. 11:10.

NOTE.—Paul renders this, “In Him shall the Gentiles _trust_.” Rom. 15:12.

2. Why does God wish us to trust in Jesus?

“That we should be _to the praise of His glory_, who first trusted in Christ.” Eph. 1:12.

3. What did the Ephesians do upon hearing the gospel?

“_In whom ye also trusted_, after that ye heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation.” Verse 13, first part.

4. What experience followed this trust in Jesus?

“In whom also after that ye believed, _ye were sealed with that Holy Spirit of promise_.” Verse 13, last part.

NOTE.—To trust in Jesus is to believe in Him, to have abiding and unbounded confidence in Him. When such trust exists, we are sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise.

5. What is the gospel to every one that believes?

“I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for _it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth_.” Rom. 1:16.

6. How does God regard one who abandons his faith?

“Now the just shall live by faith: but _if any man draw back My soul shall have no pleasure in him_.” Heb. 10:38.

7. Is there danger of believers losing their hold on Christ?

“And because iniquity shall abound, _the love of many shall wax cold_.” Matt. 24:12.

8. By what does one gain the victory over the world?

“This is the victory that overcometh the world, _even our faith_.” 1 John 5:4.

9. What encouragement does Jesus give us to meet cheerfully the troubles and trials of life?

“These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but _be of good cheer; I have overcome the world_.” John 16:33.

10. What has this firm trust in Jesus led many to do?

“And they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and _they loved not their lives unto the death_.” Rev. 12:11. “And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: they were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; (of whom the world was not worthy).” Heb. 11:36-38.

11. What did it lead Moses to do?

“By faith Moses, when he was come to years, _refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter; choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season_; esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompense of the reward.” Verses 24-26.

12. What is promised those who trust in Jesus?

“There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for My sake, and the gospel’s, but _he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands_, with persecutions; and _in the world to come eternal life_.” Mark 10:29, 30.

13. What is Jesus able to do?

“Now unto Him that is _able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of His glory_.” Jude 24.

Patience

Job And His Friends. "Ye have heard of the patience of Job, and have seen the end of the Lord." James 5:11.

1. What has the Bible to say concerning patience?

“The _patient in spirit_ is better than the _proud in spirit_.” Eccl. 7:8. “Be patient _toward all men_.” 1 Thess. 5:14. “In your patience _possess ye your souls_.” Luke 21:19.

2. What contrast is drawn between the patient and the hasty in spirit?

“He that is slow to wrath is of _great understanding_: but he that is hasty of spirit _exalteth folly_.” Prov. 14:29.

3. Who are cited as examples of patience?

“Take, my brethren, _the prophets_ ... for an example of suffering affliction, and of _patience_.... Ye have heard of the patience of _Job_.” James 5:10, 11.

4. What is said of those who endure?

“Behold, _we count them happy which endure_.” Verse 11. “_Blessed_ is the man that endureth temptation.” James 1:12. “He that endureth to the end _shall be saved_.” Matt. 10:22.

5. What does the trying of faith work?

“Knowing this, that the trying of your faith _worketh patience_.” James 1:3. “Not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation _worketh patience_.” Rom. 5:3.

6. What grace is to be added to temperance, or self-control?

“And to temperance _patience_.” 2 Peter 1:6.

NOTE.—Patience naturally follows temperance. Hence the importance of right living,—of gaining control over the appetites and passions.

7. Why are we exhorted to patience?

“But let patience have her perfect work, _that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing_.” James 1:4.

8. What important test of perfection of character is given?

“_If any man offend not in word_, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body.” James 3:2.

9. How are we exhorted to run the Christian race?

“Let us _run with patience_ the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith.” Heb. 12:1, 2.

10. For what glorious event are we bidden patiently to wait?

“And the Lord direct your hearts into the love of God, and into _the patient waiting for Christ_.” 2 Thess. 3:5. “Be _patient_ therefore, brethren, _unto the coming of the Lord_.... Be ye also _patient_; stablish your hearts: for _the coming of the Lord draweth nigh_.” James 5:7, 8.

11. What will be one characteristic of the remnant church?

“Here is the _patience_ of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” Rev. 14:12.

12. What should be the language of every heart?

“_I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait_, and in His word do I hope.” Ps. 130:5.

13. When Christ comes, what will His people say?

“And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; _we have waited for Him_, and He will save us: this is the Lord; _we have waited for Him_, we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation.” Isa. 25:9.

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The home where changes never come, Nor pain nor sorrow, toil nor care; Yes! ’tis a bright and blessed home; Who would not fain be resting there?

Yet when bowed down beneath the load By heaven allowed, thine earthly lot, Thou yearn’st to reach that blest abode, Wait, meekly wait, and murmur not.

W. H. BELLAMY.

Contentment

Sea Of Tiberias. "I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content." Phil. 4:11.

1. What does the apostle say is great gain?

“But _godliness with contentment_ is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.” 1 Tim. 6:6, 7.

2. With what are we exhorted to be content?

“Let your conversation be without covetousness; and _be content with such things as ye have_: for He hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.” Heb. 13:5. “And _having food and raiment_ let us be therewith content.” 1 Tim. 6:8.

3. Concerning what does Christ tell us not to be anxious?

“Be not therefore anxious, saying, _What shall we eat?_ or, _What shall we drink?_ or, _Wherewithal shall we be clothed?_ For after all these things do the Gentiles seek; for your Heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.” Matt. 6:31, 32, R. V.

NOTE.—“Live not in _careful suspense_.” Luke 12:29, margin.

4. What evils befall those who are determined to be rich?

“But they that will be rich _fall into temptation and a snare, and into many foolish and hurtful lusts_, which drown men in destruction and perdition. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have _erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows_.” 1 Tim. 6:9, 10.

5. By what illustrations did Christ teach contentment?

“_Consider the ravens_: for they neither sow nor reap; which neither have storehouse nor barn; and God feedeth them: how much more are ye better than the fowls?... _Consider the lilies_ how they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say unto you, that Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. If then God so clothe the grass, which is today in the field, and tomorrow is cast into the oven; how much more will He clothe you, O ye of little faith?” Luke 12:24-28.

6. What lesson in contentment did Paul say he had learned?

“I have learned, _in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content_.” Phil. 4:11.

7. What ancient promise should lead to contentment?

“While the earth remaineth, seed-time and harvest, and cold and heat, and summer and winter, and day and night shall not cease.” Gen. 8:22.

8. Upon whom should we cast all our care?

“Casting all your care upon _Him_ [God]; for He careth for you.” 1 Peter 5:7.

NOTES.—“Contentment produces, in some measure, all those effects which the alchemist usually ascribes to what he calls the philosopher’s stone. If it does not bring riches, it does the same thing by banishing the desire for them. If it cannot remove the disquietudes arising from a man’s mind, body, or fortune, it makes him easy under them.”—_Addison._

A contented mind sees something good in everything,—fair weather in every wind, blessings in every storm.

“If we cannot get what we like, we should try to like what we get.”

“There is no malady more severe than habitual discontent.”—_Fleming._

“If you cannot frame your circumstances in accordance with your wishes, frame your will in harmony with your circumstances.”—_Epictetus._

“A contented mind is a continual feast.”

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God holds the future in His hand. O heart of mine, be still! His love will plan the best for thee. The best, or light or dark it be: Then rest ye in His will.

God holds the future in His hand, Why should I shrink or fear? Through every dark and cloudy day— Yea, all along my pilgrim way— His love will bless and cheer.

God holds the future in His hand. And I can trust His love. The past declares His faithfulness; His eye will guide, His heart will bless Till I am safe above.

Cheerfulness

The Daughters Of Israel. "A merry heart doeth good like a medicine." Prov. 17:22.

1. Before leaving His disciples, what did Jesus say to them?

“These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but _be of good cheer_; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33.

2. What were some of the cheering words He said to them?

“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me. In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. _I go to prepare a place for you._ And if I go and prepare a place for you, _I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also_.” John 14:1-3.

3. In what spirit should we serve the Lord?

“Serve the Lord with _gladness_: come before His presence with _singing_.” Ps. 100:2.

4. What is sown for the upright in heart?

“Light is sown for the righteous, and _gladness_ for the upright in heart.” Ps. 97:11.

5. What effect has a merry heart?

“A merry heart _doeth good like a medicine_: but a broken spirit drieth the bones.” Prov. 17:22.

NOTE.—From this we may learn the influence which the mind has over the body. Cheerfulness is conducive to life and health; sorrow, care, anxiety, and worry tend to disease and death.

6. What effect do helpful, cheerful words have upon the heart?

“Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but _a good word maketh it glad_.” Prov. 12:25.

7. By what temporal blessings does God fill men’s hearts with gladness?

“Nevertheless He left not Himself without witness, in that He did good, and _gave us rain from heaven, and fruitful seasons_, filling our hearts with _food_ and _gladness_.” Acts 14:17.

8. Why and for what may every child of God rejoice?

“I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for _He hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, He hath covered me with the robe of righteousness_.” Isa. 61:10.

9. Against what are Christians warned?

“_Neither murmur ye, as some of them also murmured_, and were destroyed of the destroyer.” 1 Cor. 10:10.

NOTES.—“There are those who take to gloom as a bat to darkness or as a vulture to carrion. They would rather nurse a misery than cherish a joy. They always find the dark side of everything, if there is a dark side to be found. They appear to be conscientious grumblers, as if it were their duty to extract some essence of misery from every circumstance.... On the other hand, there are rare spirits who always take cheerful views of life. They look at the bright side. They find some joy and beauty everywhere.... In the most faulty picture they see some bit of beauty which charms them. In the most disagreeable person they discover some kindly trait or some bud of promise. In the most disheartening circumstances they find something for which to be thankful, some gleam of cheer breaking through the thick gloom.... When a ray of sunlight streamed through a crack in the shutter and made a bright patch on the floor in the darkened room, the little dog rose from his dark corner and went and lay down in the one sunny spot; and these people live in the same philosophical way. If there is one beam of cheer or hope anywhere in their lot, they will find it.... We have no right to project the gloom of our discontent over any other life. Our ministry is to be ever toward joy. There is nothing so depressing in its effects upon others as morbidness.... Discontent helps nothing.... One never feels better for complaining.”—_“__Week-Day Religion,__”_ by J. R. Miller, D. D., pages 236-241.

“How many people,” says Jeremy Taylor, “are busy in the world gathering together a handful of thorns to sit upon.”

“As a little girl was eating, the sun dashed upon her spoon, and she cried, ‘O mama, I have swallowed a spoonful of sunshine!’ Would God that we all might indulge in the same beverage!”—_Talmage’s __“__One Thousand Gems,__”_ page 56.

10. Even when persecuted, what are we told to do, and why?

“Blessed are ye, when men shall hate you, and when they shall separate you from their company, and shall reproach you, and cast out your name as evil, for the Son of man’s sake. _Rejoice ye in that day, and leap for joy: for, behold, your reward is great in heaven._” Luke 6:22, 23.

11. When beaten by the Jewish rulers for preaching Christ, what did the apostles do?

“And they departed from the presence of the council, _rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for His name_.” Acts 5:41.

12. After receiving “many stripes,” with their feet made fast in the stocks, what did Paul and Silas do while in prison?

“And at midnight Paul and Silas _prayed, and sang praises unto God_: and the prisoners heard them.” Acts 16:25.

13. What assurance is given that the child of God may bravely endure every trial and hardship of life?

“And we know that _all things work together for good to them that love God_, to them who are the called according to His purpose.” Rom. 8:28.

14. How constant should our rejoicing be?

“Rejoice in the Lord _alway_: and again I say, _Rejoice_.” Phil. 4:4.

NOTE.—“Good cheer is the hall-mark of a brave and healthy soul. To give way to gloomy thoughts, otherwise the ‘blues,’ is a sign of weakness. This isn’t asserting that no one but weaklings is attacked by the blues; but it is one thing to be attacked and another to rout the disturber. And that is what the brave soul does. There may be a very real and tangible reason why the heart faints and halts, for life is serious, and the world full of unexpected trials; but to sit and brood over a trouble only makes it look larger and larger until it finally obscures the horizon line, and darkness descends upon the soul. Wherefore, the thing to do is to cast aside all thoughts of worry for a moment,—just say to yourself, It is only for a moment,—and when you return to it again you will be surprised to find it has lessened in size and importance.”—_The New World._

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When things don’t go to suit you, And the world seems upside down, Don’t waste your time in fretting, But drive away that frown; Since life is oft perplexing, ’Tis much the wisest plan To bear all trials bravely, And smile whene’er you can.

Christian Courtesy

Moses Defending The Maidens. "But Moses stood up and helped them, and watered their flock." Ex. 2:17.

1. What should be our conduct one toward another?

“Love as brethren, be pitiful, _be courteous_.” 1 Peter 3:8.

2. How many should we honor?

“Honor _all men_. Love the brotherhood.” 1 Peter 2:17.

3. Whom should we salute?

“If ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?” Matt. 5:47.

4. What respect should be shown the aged?

“Thou shalt _rise up_ before the hoary head, and _honor_ the face of the old man.” Lev. 19:32. See 2 Kings 2:23, 24.

5. Whom especially should children honor?

“Honor thy _father_ and thy _mother_.” Ex. 20:12.

6. How should faithful gospel ministers be regarded?

“Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of _double honor_.” 1 Tim. 5:17.

7. What is the basis of true Christian courtesy?

“Charity [love] ... is kind; . . . charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own.” 1 Cor. 13:4, 5.

NOTE.—Genuine Christian courtesy is the outgrowth of love, and manifests itself in thoughtful consideration for others.

Confessing Faults And Forgiving One Another

Joseph Forgiving His Brethren. "Forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors." Matt. 6:12.

1. What has God promised to do when we confess our sins?

“If we confess our sins, _He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins_, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9.

2. How has it been made possible for sins to be forgiven?

“If any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous: and _He is the propitiation for our sins_.” 1 John 2:1, 2.

3. To whom should sins be confessed, and why?

“_Against Thee, Thee only, have I sinned_, and done this evil in Thy sight.” Ps. 51:4. See Gen. 39:9.

4. What instruction is given concerning confession of faults?

“_Confess your faults one to another_, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed.” James 5:16.

NOTES.—The Bible makes a distinction between a sin and a fault. We sin against God; for sin is the transgression of His law. 1 John 3:4.

We trespass one against another. These offenses, while involving sin, are called faults, and should be corrected by confession and forgiveness. The only remedy for either pointed out in the Word of God is heartfelt confession. One writer aptly says: “Confess your sins to God, who only can forgive them, and your faults to one another. If you have given offense to your friend or neighbor, you are to acknowledge your wrong, and it is his duty freely to forgive you. Then you are to seek the forgiveness of God, because the brother you have wounded is the property of God, and in injuring him you sinned against his Creator and Redeemer.”

To confess one’s faults is not an easy thing to do; in fact, it is one of the hardest lessons to learn, for it requires the grace of humility as well as that of sorrow and true repentance. It has been said that the four hardest words to pronounce in the English language are, “I made a mistake.” Frederick the Great wrote to the Prussian senate, “I have just lost a battle, and it is my own fault.” Concerning this Goldsmith says, “His confession shows more greatness than his victories.”

The confession should not only be complete, but it should be as broad and as public as was the offense. Private offenses should be confessed in private.

5. When we do wrong, what is the natural thing for us to do?

Excuse it, seek to hide it, or blame some one else for it. See Gen. 3:12, 13; 4:9.

6. After David’s great sin had been pointed out to him, what did he say?

“I have sinned.” 2 Sam. 12:13. “I acknowledge my transgressions.” Ps. 51:3.

7. When David in contrition of heart confessed his sin, what was God’s word to him by Nathan, the prophet?

“And David said unto Nathan, I have sinned against the Lord. And Nathan said unto David, _The Lord also hath put away thy sin_; thou shalt not die.” 2 Sam. 12:13.

NOTE.—This scripture is especially encouraging. God hates sin. He wants us likewise to hate it and shun it, because it invariably gets us into trouble, causes sorrow of heart, and in the end brings death. But when involved in it, as was David, as soon as it is acknowledged and sincerely confessed, _that very moment it is forgiven_. David said, “I have _sinned_.” The immediate answer was returned, “The Lord also _hath put away thy sin_.”

8. Is it ever right to tell a brother of his faults?

“If thy brother shall trespass against thee, _go and tell him his fault between thee and him alone_: if he shall hear thee, thou hast gained thy brother.” Matt. 18:15. “Thou shalt not hate thy brother in thine heart: _thou shalt in any wise rebuke thy neighbor, and not suffer sin upon him_.” Lev. 19:17.

9. In what spirit should this kind of work be done?

“Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one _in the spirit of meekness_; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” Gal. 6:1.

NOTE.—It is much easier to tell _some one else_ of a brother’s faults than it is to tell _him_ of them _himself_; but this is not the Christian way to proceed. The first efforts should be made with the offender _in person_, and _alone_. But it is easier even to tell _a brother_ of _his_ faults than it is to confess to him _our own_. This, again, let it be noted, is the one very difficult lesson to learn, the one Christian duty difficult to perform. Only humility and the grace of God will enable one to do it.

10. When we pray, what does Christ tell us to do, and why?

“And when ye stand praying, _forgive_, if ye have aught against any: _that your Father_ also which is in heaven _may forgive you your trespasses_.” Mark 11:25.

11. If we do not forgive others, what will God not do?

“But if ye do not forgive, _neither will your Father which is in heaven forgive your trespasses_.” Verse 26. See, for illustration, Christ’s parable recorded in Matt. 18:23-35.

12. What words of Joseph to his brethren show that he forgave them for selling him into Egypt?

“Now therefore _be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither_: for God did send me before you to preserve life.... _So now it was not you that sent me hither, but God._” Gen. 45:5-8.

13. What was Christ’s reply to Peter’s question as to the number of times we should forgive one another?

“Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, _I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven_.” Matt. 18:21, 22.

NOTE.—That is, an unlimited number. We must pardon offenses against us though ever so often done; we must forgive to the end.

14. What spirit did Jesus manifest toward those who nailed Him to the cross?

“Then said Jesus, _Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do_.” Luke 23:34.

15. How did Stephen manifest the same spirit toward those who stoned him?

“And they stoned Stephen, calling upon God, ... and he kneeled down, and cried with a loud voice, _Lord, lay not this sin to their charge_.” Acts 7:59, 60. See 1 Peter 4:8.

The Duty Of Encouragement

The Father Forgiving His Son. "His father ... had compassion, and ... fell on his neck, and kissed him." Luke 15:20.

1. When the ten spies brought back an evil report from the land of Canaan, what did Caleb say?

“And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, _Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it_.” Num. 13:30.

2. What did the ten spies say?

“But the men that went up with him said, _We be not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we_.” Verse 31.

3. What effect did this evil report have upon the people?

“And all the congregation lifted up their voice, and _cried_; and the people _wept_ that night. And all the children of Israel _murmured_ against Moses and against Aaron: and the whole congregation said unto them, _Would God that we had died in the land of Egypt! or would God we had died in this wilderness!_... And they said one to another, _Let us make a captain, and let us return into Egypt_.” Num. 14:1-4.

4. With what words did Moses seek to encourage Joshua?

“And Moses called unto Joshua, and said unto him in the sight of all Israel, _Be strong and of a good courage_.... The Lord, He it is that doth go before thee; He will be with thee, He will not fail thee, neither forsake thee: _fear not, neither be dismayed_.” Deut. 31:7, 8.

5. In his final charge to Joshua, what did Moses, speaking for God, say to him?

“And he gave Joshua the son of Nun a charge, and said, _Be strong and of a good courage_: for thou shalt bring the children of Israel into the land which I sware unto them: and I will be with thee.” Verse 23.

6. After Moses’ death, how did the Lord encourage Joshua?

“The Lord spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses’ minister, saying, ... There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. _Be strong and of a good courage._” Joshua 1:1-6.

7. When Sennacherib, king of Assyria, came against Jerusalem, what did King Hezekiah say to Israel?

“_Be strong and courageous, be not afraid nor dismayed_ for the king of Assyria, nor for all the multitude that is with him: for there be more with us than with him: with him is an army of flesh; but with us is the Lord our God to help us, and to fight our battles.” 2 Chron. 32:7, 8.

8. What effect did these words have upon the people?

“And _the people rested themselves upon the words of Hezekiah_ king of Judah.” Verse 8.

9. How did Josiah seek to promote the worship of God?

“And he set the priests in their charges, and _encouraged them to the service of the house of the Lord_.” 2 Chron. 35:2.

10. By what message, through the prophet Haggai, did God seek to encourage the people to rebuild the temple?

“_Be strong, O Zerubbabel_, saith the Lord; and _be strong, O Joshua_, son of Josedech, the high priest; and _be strong, all ye people of the land_, saith the Lord, _and work: for I am with you, saith the Lord of hosts_.” Haggai 2:4.

11. What encouraging message has Christ left us?

“_Be of good cheer_; I have overcome the world.” John 16:33.

NOTES.—A dispirited man, like a discouraged horse, is powerless to perform his task.

“What men need most in this world’s struggle and strife is not usually direct help, but cheer.... Many men have fainted and succumbed in the great struggles whom one word of cheer would have made strong to overcome. We should never, then, lose an opportunity to say an inspiring word. We know not how much it is needed, nor how great and far-reaching its consequences may be.”—_“__Week-Day Religion,__”__ by J. R. Miller, D. D., page 170._

Unity Of Believers

Bethlehem. "That they may be one, even as We are one." John 17:22.

1. What relation do the Father and the Son sustain to each other?

“I and My Father _are one_.” John 10:30.

2. In what does this oneness consist?

“I seek not Mine own will, but _the will of the Father_ which hath sent Me.” John 5:30.

NOTE.—Their oneness, therefore, consists in their having the same mind, will, and purpose.

3. What did Christ pray the Father in behalf of His disciples?

“_That they may be one_, even as We are one.” John 17:22. See also verses 11 and 23.

4. Why did Christ desire this oneness, or unity, to exist among His followers?

“That they all may be one; as Thou, Father, art in Me, and I in Thee, that they also may be one in Us: _that the world may believe that Thou hast sent Me_.” Verse 21.

5. By what did Christ say all men should know His disciples?

“By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, _if ye have love one to another_.” John 13:35.

NOTE.—“God has united believers in church capacity in order that one may strengthen another in good and righteous endeavor. The church on earth would indeed be a symbol of the church in heaven if its members were of one mind and of one faith. It is those who are not moved by the Holy Spirit that mar God’s plan, and cause division, and strengthen the forces of darkness. Those who are sanctified by the blood of Christ will not counterwork God’s work, nor perpetuate division in the church. When there is disunion among believers, the world concludes that they cannot be the people of God because they are working against one another. When believers are one with Christ, they will be united among themselves.”

6. How did Paul show his concern in this matter?

“Now I beseech you, brethren, by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, _that ye all speak the same thing_, and _that there be no divisions among you_; but _that ye be perfectly joined together in the same mind and in the same judgment_.” 1 Cor. 1:10.

7. What was a prominent cause of division in the early church?

“For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also _of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them_.” Acts 20:29, 30.

8. What was already at work in the church in Paul’s day?

“For _the mystery of iniquity doth already work_: only he who now letteth [hindereth] will let, until he be taken out of the way.” 2 Thess. 2:7.

9. Before Christ should come, what did Paul say was to take place?

“Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come _a falling away_ first, and _that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition_; who opposeth and exalteth himself above all that is called God, or that is worshiped; so that he as God sitteth in the temple of God, showing himself that he is God.” Verses 3, 4.

NOTE.—The huge system of error now fostered in the papal church is the result of the falling away here referred to. Says Wylie in his “History of Protestantism,” Vol. III, page 25: “Rome manifestly was the schismatic; she it was that abandoned what was once the common faith of Christendom, leaving by that step to all who remained on the old ground the indisputably valid title of the true church.”

10. Together, what do believers in Christ form?

“Now _ye are the body of Christ_, and members in particular.” 1 Cor. 12:27.

11. Being members of Christ’s body, of what else do we become members?

“So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and _every one members one of another_.” Rom. 12:5.

12. As members of one another, what is the duty of each?

“That there should be no schism in the body; but that _the members should have the same care one for another_.” 1 Cor. 12:25.

13. What should they endeavor to keep?

“I therefore, the prisoner of the Lord, beseech you that ye walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called, with all lowliness and meekness, with long-suffering, forbearing one another in love; _endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace_.” Eph. 4:1-3.

14. What unity of faith is finally to exist among God’s watchmen?

“Thy watchmen shall lift up the voice; with the voice together shall they sing: for _they shall see eye to eye, when the Lord shall bring again Zion_.” Isa. 52:8.

15. What solemn message, just before the Lord’s coming, will unite God’s people in bonds of faith and love?

“Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come: and worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.... Babylon is fallen, is fallen, that great city, because she made all nations drink of the wine of the wrath of her fornication.... If any man worship the beast and his image, and receive his mark in his forehead, or in his hand, the same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God.” Rev. 14:7-10. See Rev. 18:1-5.

16. How are those who receive this message described?

“Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus.” Verse 12.

17. When the Lord comes, what will be the united cry of God’s people?

“And it shall be said in that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for Him, and He will save us: this is the Lord; we have waited for Him, we will be glad and rejoice in His salvation.” Isa. 25:9.

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How blest the sacred tie that binds In sweet communion kindred minds! How swift the heavenly course they run Whose hearts, whose faith, whose hopes, are one.

Meekness And Humility

Jesus Scourged. "He was oppressed, and He was afflicted, yet He opened not His mouth." Isa. 53:7.

1. What promise is made to the meek?

“Blessed are the meek: for _they shall inherit the earth_.” Matt. 5:5.

_Meek_: “Mild of temper; not easily provoked or irritated; forbearing; submissive; humble.”—_Webster._

2. What did Christ say of His own character?

“Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for _I am meek and lowly of heart_: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.” Matt. 11:29.

3. What is said of the character of Moses?

“Now _the man Moses was very meek_, above all the men which were upon the face of the earth.” Num. 12:3.

4. Whom has God promised to guide in judgment?

“_The meek_ will He guide in judgment: and _the meek_ will He teach His way.” Ps. 25:9.

5. Of what is meekness a fruit?

“But _the fruit of the Spirit is_ love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, _meekness_, temperance: against such there is no law.” Gal. 5:22, 23.

Christ In The Garden. "Nevertheless not My will, but Thine, be done." Luke 22:42.

6. What does Christ say of those who exalt themselves?

“For whosoever exalteth himself _shall be abased_; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.” Luke 14:11.

NOTE.—The spirit of self-exaltation is of Satan. See Isa. 14:12-14; Eze. 28:17. Christ humbled Himself, made Himself of no reputation, and became obedient even to the death on the cross. See Phil. 2:5-8.

7. By what means did Jesus illustrate true humility?

“And Jesus called _a little child_ unto Him, and set him in the midst of them, and said, ... _Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child; the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven._” Matt. 18:2-4.

NOTES.—Humility is “freedom from pride and arrogance; lowliness of mind; a modest estimate of one’s own worth.” It implies a sense of one’s own unworthiness through imperfection and sinfulness, and consists in rating our _claims_ low, in being willing to _waive our rights_, and to _take a lower place than might be our due_. It does not require that we under-rate ourselves or our life-work. The humility of Christ was perfect, yet He had a true sense of the importance of His life and mission.

“Humility is like a tree, whose root, when it sets deepest in the earth, rises higher, and spreads fairer, and stands surer, and lasts longer, and every step of its descent is like a rib of iron.”—_Bishop Taylor._

8. How will humility lead us to esteem others?

“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind _let each esteem other better than themselves_.” Phil. 2:3.

9. With whom does God dwell?

“I dwell in the high and holy place, _with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit_, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.” Isa. 57:15.

10. When asked a reason for our hope, in what spirit should we answer?

“But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you _with meekness and fear_.” 1 Peter 3:15.

11. Who should labor for one overtaken in a fault, and in what spirit?

“Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, _ye which are spiritual_, restore such an one _in the spirit of meekness_; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.” Gal. 6:1.

12. With what should Christian women adorn themselves?

“Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even _the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit_, which is in the sight of God of great price.” 1 Peter 3:3, 4.

NOTE.—The instruction given here, _in principle_ applies with equal force to men professing godliness. It is the needless display of apparel and outward adornment that is here condemned. God desires the ornaments _within_, displayed in the heart and life, rather than those _without_, simply to be seen of men. Needless outward adornment, therefore, may generally be taken as an indication that the inward adornment, so precious in the sight of God, is lacking. Neatness in dress is not here discouraged.

13. Why are we exhorted to humble ourselves?

“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, _that He may exalt you in due time_.” 1 Peter 5:6.

NOTE.—“The higher a man is in grace, the lower he will be in his own esteem.”—_Spurgeon._

14. With what has the Lord promised to beautify the meek?

“For the Lord taketh pleasure in His people: _He will beautify the meek with salvation_.” Ps. 149:4.

15. What are the meek exhorted to seek?

“Seek ye the Lord, all ye meek of the earth, which have wrought His judgment; seek righteousness, _seek meekness_: it may be ye shall be hid in the day of the Lord’s anger.” Zeph. 2:3.

NOTE.—The fact that the meek are exhorted to seek meekness, is evidence that the meek themselves should cherish and cultivate meekness, and that sanctification, or the development of a perfect character, is a progressive work.

16. What inheritance is promised the meek?

“For yet a little while, and the wicked shall not be: yea, thou shalt diligently consider his place, and it shall not be. But _the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace_.” Ps. 37:10, 11.

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I count this thing to be grandly true: That a noble deed is a step toward God, Lifting the soul from the common clod To a purer air and a broader view.

We rise by the things that are under our feet; By what we have mastered of good and gain; By the pride deposed and the passion slain, And the vanquished ills that we hourly meet. J. G. HOLLAND.

Sobriety

Joseph Interpreting Pharaoh’s Dream. "Young men likewise exhort to be sober-minded." Titus 2:6.

1. To what extent did Solomon test the pleasures of this world?

“_Whatsoever mine eyes desired_ I kept not from them, I withheld not my heart from _any joy_.” “I said in mine heart, Go to now, I will prove thee with _mirth_, therefore enjoy _pleasure_.” Eccl. 2:10, 1.

2. How much true enjoyment did such a course afford?

“Behold, _all was vanity and vexation of spirit_.” Verse 11.

3. Of what does Solomon bid the young, in the buoyancy of youth, to be mindful?

“Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes; _but know thou, that for all these things God will bring thee into judgment_.” Eccl. 11:9.

4. How does the grace of God teach us that we should live?

“For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should _live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world_.” Titus 2:11, 12.

5. What classes of individuals are admonished to be sober?

“That the _aged men_ be sober, grave, temperate, sound in faith, in charity, in patience. The _aged women_ likewise, that they be in behavior as becometh holiness, ... that they may teach the _young women_ to be sober.... _Young men_ likewise exhort to be sober-minded.” Verses 2-6.

NOTE.—These four classes include all. All should be sober.

6. What similar advice is given in the epistle to the Romans?

“Let us walk honestly, as in the day; not in rioting and drunkenness, not in chambering and wantonness, not in strife and envying.” Rom. 13:13.

7. What testimony does the apostle Peter bear on this point?

“Wherefore gird up the loins of your mind, _be sober_, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 1:13.

8. Why are foolish talking and jesting to be avoided?

“Neither filthiness, nor foolish talking, nor jesting, _which are not convenient_.” Eph. 5:4.

NOTE.—To indulge in such things is not becoming a Christian. Life, with all its responsibilities and great issues at stake, is too serious a matter to be spent in such vanities.

9. What is the thought of foolishness declared to be?

“The thought of foolishness is _sin_.” Prov. 24:9.

NOTE.—Levity, foolishness, light and loose talking, throw us off our guard, and open the way to temptation and sin. To avoid sin, we must be sober and constantly on guard.

10. Why are sobriety and vigilance especially necessary?

“Be sober, be vigilant; _because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour_.” 1 Peter 5:8.

11. What other consideration should lead us to sobriety and watchfulness?

“But _the end of all things is at hand_: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.” 1 Peter 4:7.

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How vain are all things here below! How false, and yet how fair! Each pleasure hath its poison, too, And every sweet a snare. ISAAC WATTS.

Wisdom

Wisdom Of Solomon. "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom." Ps. 111:10.

1. Why are we told to get wisdom?

“_Wisdom is the principal thing_; therefore get wisdom.” Prov. 4:7.

NOTE.—Wisdom implies the ability to judge soundly and deal sagaciously. It is knowledge, with the capacity to make due use of it. One may have abundance of _knowledge_, and at the same time possess little _wisdom_.

2. Of how much value is wisdom?

“She is more precious than rubies: and all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her.” Prov. 3:15.

3. What blessings follow the acquisition of wisdom?

“Exalt her, and she shall _promote thee_: she shall _bring thee to honor_, when thou dost embrace her. She shall give to thine head _an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee_.” Prov. 4:8, 9.

4. Who gives wisdom?

“For the Lord giveth wisdom.” Prov. 2:6.

5. How may it be obtained?

“If any of you lack wisdom, _let him ask of God_, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; _and it shall be given him_.” James 1:5.

6. When Solomon became king, what did he ask the Lord to give him?

“Give me now _wisdom and knowledge_.” 2 Chron. 1:10.

7. How did the Lord regard this request?

“And _the speech pleased the Lord_, that Solomon had asked this thing.” 1 Kings 3:10.

8. How was Solomon’s prayer answered?

“And God said unto him, Because thou hast asked this thing, and hast not asked for thyself long life; neither hast asked riches for thyself, nor hast asked the life of thine enemies; ... _behold, I have done according to thy words: lo, I have given thee a wise and an understanding heart.... And I have also given thee that which thou hast not asked, both riches, and honor._” Verses 11-13.

9. Are great men always wise?

“_Great men are not always wise_: neither do the aged understand judgment.” Job 32:9.

10. What is the beginning of wisdom?

“_The fear of the Lord_ is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do His commandments.” Ps. 111:10.

11. By what means was the psalmist made wiser than his enemies?

“Thou _through Thy commandments_ hast made me wiser than mine enemies: for they are ever with me.” Ps. 119:98.

12. Why did his understanding excel that of his teachers?

“I have more understanding than all my teachers: _for Thy testimonies are my meditation_.” Verse 99.

13. What effect does wisdom have upon the countenance?

“A man’s wisdom maketh his face to _shine_.” Eccl. 8:1.

14. In what did Christ say the children of this world excel the children of light?

“For the children of this world are in their generation _wiser_ than the children of light.” Luke 16:8.

NOTE.—That is, they show more prudence, more cunning, and more intelligence about their business than do Christians concerning the things of God’s kingdom. “They show more skill, study more plans, contrive more ways, to provide for themselves than the children of light do to promote the interests of religion.”—_Dr. Albert Barnes._

15. In what did the apostle say he would have us wise, and in what simple?

“I would have you _wise unto that which is good_, and _simple concerning evil_.” Rom. 16:19.

16. How many kinds of wisdom are there?

“Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not _the wisdom of this world_.... But we speak _the wisdom of God_ in a mystery, even _the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory_.” 1 Cor. 2:6, 7.

17. How is worldly wisdom regarded by God?

“For the wisdom of this world is _foolishness_ with God.” 1 Cor. 3:19.

18. What is the character of that wisdom which comes from God?

“But the wisdom that is from above is first _pure_, then _peaceable_, _gentle_, and _easy to be entreated_, _full of mercy and good fruits_, _without partiality_, _and without hypocrisy_.” James 3:17.

19. What wisdom are the Scriptures able to give?

“And that from a child thou hast known the Holy Scriptures, which are able to make thee _wise unto salvation_ through faith which is in Christ Jesus.” 2 Tim. 3:15.

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Broad is the road that leads to death, And thousands walk together there; But wisdom shows a narrow path, With here and there a traveler.

Deny thyself, and take thy cross, Is thy Redeemer’s great command; Nature must count her gold but dross, If she would gain that heavenly land.

The fearful soul that tries and faints, And walks the ways of God no more, Is but esteemed almost a saint, And makes his own destruction sure. ISAAC WATTS.

Diligence

Reading God’s Word. "Give diligence to make your calling and election sure." 2 Peter 1:10.

1. What general command has God given concerning labor?

“Six days shalt thou labor, and do all thy work.” Ex. 20:9.

2. Instead of living upon the earnings of others, what instruction is given?

“Let him that stole steal no more: but rather _let him labor, working with his hands_ the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.” Eph. 4:28.

3. What general rule does Paul lay down upon this subject?

“For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that _if any would not work, neither should he eat_.” 2 Thess. 3:10.

4. In what language does he condemn idleness?

“For we hear that there are some which walk among you disorderly, _working not at all_, but are busybodies. Now them that are such _we command and exhort_ by our Lord Jesus Christ, _that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread_.” Verses 11, 12.

5. What example did the apostle himself set in this matter?

“Neither did we eat any man’s bread for naught; but _wrought with labor and travail night and day_, that we might not be chargeable to any of you.” Verse 8.

6. What labor was appointed man in consequence of the fall?

“_In the sweat of thy face shall thou eat bread_, till thou return unto the ground.” Gen. 3:19.

NOTE.—A life of laborious and perpetual toil, in a world cursed with weeds, thorns, and thistles, was appointed to man in consequence of the entrance of sin. This was a part of the curse. And yet even this was appointed in love, and, under existing circumstances, is a blessing in disguise. It was a discipline rendered necessary because of sin, to place a check upon the indulgence of appetite and passion, to develop habits of industry and self-control, and to teach lessons on overcoming evil. Were not man called to labor thus, his sins and miseries would be multiplied manyfold.

7. What are some of the results of industry?

“He that tilleth his land _shall have plenty of bread_.” Prov. 28:19. “The hand of the diligent _maketh rich_.” Prov. 10:4. “The soul of the diligent shall be _made fat_.” Prov. 13:4.

8. What results from slackness and indolence in business?

“He _becometh poor_ that dealeth with a slack hand.” Prov. 10:4. “The soul of the sluggard desireth, and _hath nothing_.” Prov. 13:4.

9. What does Solomon say concerning diligence in business?

“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might.” Eccl. 9:10. “Be thou diligent to know the state of thy flocks, and look well to thy herds.” Prov. 27:23. “He that gathereth in summer is a wise son: but he that sleepeth in harvest is a son that causeth shame.” Prov. 10:5.

NOTE.—“The way to wealth, if you desire it, is as plain as the way to market. It depends chiefly on two words—_industry_ and _frugality_; that is, waste neither _time_ nor _money_, but make the best of both. Without industry and frugality nothing will do, and with them everything.”—_Benjamin Franklin._

10. What does Solomon say of the industrious woman?

“_She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness._ Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.” Prov. 31:27, 28.

11. What has Paul said of the professed Christian who does not provide for his own family?

“But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, _he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel_.” 1 Tim. 5:8.

12. What picture has Solomon given of the slothful man?

“I went by the field of the slothful, and by the vineyard of the man void of understanding; and, lo, it was all grown over with thorns, and nettles had covered the face thereof, and the stone wall thereof was broken down.” Prov. 24:30, 31.

NOTES.—“An indolent man draweth his breath, but does not live.”—_Cicero._

“The parent who does not teach his child a trade, teaches him to be a thief.”—_Brahmanic Proverb._

“When tillage begins, other arts follow. The farmers therefore are the founders of human civilization.”—_Daniel Webster._

“If a man be indolent, the best discipline to which he can be subjected is to suffer the evils of penury.”—_Wayland._

“Nothing can be done with a man who will not work. We have in our scheme of government no room for the man who does not wish to pay his way through life by what he does.... Capacity for work is absolutely necessary, and no man can be said to live in the true sense of the word if he does not work.”—_Theodore Roosevelt._

“Luck is waiting for something to turn up. Labor, with keen eyes and strong will, will turn up something. Luck whines. Labor whistles. Luck relies on chances. Labor, on character. Luck slips down to indigence. Labor strides upward to independence. Luck lies in bed, and wishes the postman would bring him news of a legacy. Labor turns out at six o’ clock, and with busy pen or ringing hammer lays the foundation of a competence.”—_Cobden._

13. In spiritual matters, what is also necessary?

“And beside this, _giving all diligence_, add to your faith virtue; and to virtue knowledge.... Give _diligence_ to make your calling and election sure.” 2 Peter 1:5-10.

NOTE.—In temporal matters the difference between a prosperous man and a sluggard lies principally in the improvement of opportunities. One grasps these, while the other is too indolent to do so. In the gaining of eternal life this same principle applies. God has placed salvation within the reach of all. None need be lost. Christ died for all, but all will not be saved, for some do not care enough for eternal life diligently to lay hold of it.

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Neat be your farm; ’tis long confessed The neatest farmer is the best; Each bog and marsh industrious drain, Nor let vile balks deform the plain, Nor bushes on your headland grow, Nor briers a sloven culture show. Neat be your barns, your houses sweet; Your paths be clean, your dooryards neat; No moss the sheltering roof enshroud, No wooden panes the windows cloud; No sink drains should above ground flow, Nor weeds with rankling poison grow; But flowers expand, and fruit-trees bloom, And fragrant shrubs exhale perfume. Neatly enclose your garden round; Smooth, enrich, and clear the ground; For if to taste and profit you incline, Beauty and use you always should combine.

Perfection Of Character

Paul Shipwrecked. "In all these things we are more than conqueror through Him that loved us." Rom. 8:37.

1. Why are we exhorted to patience?

“But let patience have her perfect work, _that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting_ [_lacking_] _nothing_.” James 1:4.

2. How perfect does Christ tell us to be?

“Be ye therefore perfect, _even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect_.” Matt. 5:48.

3. In whom are we complete?

“And ye are complete _in Him_.” Col. 2:10.

4. After accepting Christ, what are we to do?

“Therefore leaving the principles of the doctrine of Christ, _let us go on unto perfection_.” Heb. 6:1.

5. In what is the Christian to grow?

“But grow in _grace_, and in _the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ_.” 2 Peter 3:18.

6. How may one grow in grace?

“Giving all diligence, _add to your faith virtue_; ... _knowledge_; ... _temperance_; ... _patience_; ... _godliness_; ... _brotherly kindness_; ... _charity_.” 2 Peter 1:5-8.

7. Why does Christ desire this growth in His followers?

“That He might present it to Himself _a glorious church_, not having _spot_, or _wrinkle_, or _any such thing_; but that it should be _holy_ and _without blemish_.” Eph. 5:27.

8. What will cause the Christian to grow?

“As new-born babes, desire _the sincere milk of the word_, that ye may grow thereby.” 1 Peter 2:2.

9. In order to grow by the word of God, what must one do?

“Thy words were found, and I did eat them.” Jer. 15:16. “Thy word have I _hid in mine heart_.” Ps. 119:11. See Col. 3:16.

10. What does God’s word then become to the believer?

“Thy word was unto me _the joy and rejoicing of mine heart_.” Jer. 15:16, last part.

11. Why are the Scriptures given?

“All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: _that the man of God may be perfect_, throughly furnished unto all good works.” 2 Tim. 3:16, 17.

12. How may the lack of wisdom be supplied?

“If any of you lack wisdom, _let him ask of God_, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; _and it shall be given him_.” James 1:5.

13. In how many things may we ask help from God?

“Be careful for nothing; but _in everything_ by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving _let your requests be made known unto God_.” Phil. 4:6.

14. What is an evidence of perfection?

“_If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man_, and able also to bridle the whole body.” James 3:2.

15. What is the bond of perfection?

“And above all these things put on _charity_, which is the bond of perfectness.” Col. 3:14. See Phil. 3:13, 14; Heb. 12:14.

16. How perfect would God have us become?

“And the very God of peace _sanctify you wholly_; and I pray God _your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless_ unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 1 Thess. 5:23.

Sowing And Reaping

Jacob’s Dream. "Whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap." Gal. 6:7.

1. What does Paul say regarding sowing and reaping?

“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for _whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap_.” Gal. 6:7.

2. How is the same truth expressed by Christ?

“Judge not, and ye shall not be judged: condemn not, and ye shall not be condemned: forgive, and ye shall be forgiven: give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. _For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again._” Luke 6:37, 38.

NOTES.—A man’s deeds, good or evil, usually return to bless or curse him. A farmer who sold butter to a village storekeeper and took sugar in exchange, complained that he was getting short weight. “Look here,” said he to the merchant, “it seems to me you’re giving me short weight sugar.” “No,” replied the storekeeper, “that cannot be, for in measuring out that sugar of yours I always use a pound of your butter as a weight.”

“Good and evil come back.... God made the universe on the plan of the circle. Isa. 40:22.... We ourselves start the circle of good or bad actions, and it will surely come around again to us unless by divine intervention it be hindered. Those bad or good actions may make the circuit of many years; but come back to us they will as certainly as that God sits on the circle of the earth.... What a stupendous thought that the good and the evil we start come back to us! Do you know that the judgment-day will be only the point at which the circle joins, the good and the bad we have done coming back to us, unless divine intervention hinders,—coming back to us, welcome of delight or curse of condemnation?”—_T. DeWitt Talmage._

3. On what condition does Christ say God will forgive us?

“For _if ye forgive men their trespasses_, your Heavenly Father will also forgive you: but if ye forgive not men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses.” Matt. 6: 14, 15. See also Matt. 18:23-35.

4. According to what principle does God deal with men?

“With the _merciful_ Thou wilt show Thyself _merciful_; with an _upright_ man Thou wilt show Thyself _upright_; with the _pure_ Thou wilt show Thyself _pure_; and with the _froward_ Thou wilt show Thyself _froward_.” Ps. 18:25, 26.

5. How is the same truth again taught touching the wicked?

“As he loved _cursing_, so let it come unto him: as he delighted not in _blessing_, so let it be far from him.” Ps. 109:17.

6. According to what was judgment called upon Babylon?

“Recompense her according to her works; according to all that she hath done, do unto her.” Jer. 50:29.

7. Why did Christ tell Peter to put up his sword?

“Put up again thy sword into his place: _for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword_.” Matt. 26:52.

8. Why was the Papacy to go into captivity?

“_He that leadeth into captivity shall go into captivity_: he that killeth with the sword must be killed with the sword.” Rev. 13:10. See Lev. 25:10; Jer. 34:17.

9. What is to be the punishment of spiritual Babylon?

“_Reward her even as she rewarded you_, and double unto her double according to her works.” Rev. 18:6.

10. What does the psalmist say will come to the persecutor?

“_His mischief shall return upon his own head_, and his violent dealing shall come down upon his own pate.” Ps. 7:16.

NOTE.—In his letter addressed to the Jews, dated Nov. 16, 1905, President Roosevelt said: “I feel very strongly that if any people are oppressed anywhere, the wrong inevitably reacts in the end on those who oppress them; for it is an immutable law in the spiritual world that no one can wrong others and yet in the end himself escape unhurt.”

11. What befell Haman, who sought to slay all the Jews?

“So they hanged Haman on the gallows that he had prepared for Mordecai.” Esther 7:10. See Ps. 9:15.

12. If one would have friends, what must he do?

“A man that hath friends _must show himself friendly_.” Prov. 18:24.