Chapter XXV: Part XII: Christian Growth and Experience (1)

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.