The sum total of my experience is: (The following is an excerpt from the diary of James Smith) March 27, 1861. Jesus is precious — very precious, to my soul. I love Him, rest in Him, preach Him, and wish that I could exalt Him a thousand times higher than I do! The sum total […]
Invincibly and irresistibly drawn (J. C. Philpot, “True Discipleship”, 1869) As the Lord is pleased to enlighten his mind, the Christian sees . . . such a beauty, such a blessedness, such a heavenly sweetness, such a divine loveliness, such a fullness of surpassing grace, such tender condescension, such unwearied patience, such infinite compassion, in […]
Jesus in His Garden James Smith, 1865 “My Beloved is gone down into His garden, to the beds of spices; to feed in the gardens, and to gather lilies.” Song of Solomon 6:2 Solomon’s Song reveals the Lord Jesus Christ as the Beloved, and sets forth his love to his people, and his communion with […]
Jesus in His Garden James Smith, 1865 “My Beloved is gone down into His garden, to the beds of spices; to feed in the gardens, and to gather lilies.” Song of Solomon 6:2 Solomon’s Song reveals the Lord Jesus Christ as the Beloved, and sets forth his love to his people, and his communion with […]
LITTLE FLOCK “Fear not, little flock.” Luke 12:32 This is a most endearing title. The Savior would encourage his disciples. Their cares and conflicts are many. Their fears and anxieties are many. Their weakness is constant and extreme. But Jesus allows them not to despond. The title of pilgrims refers to their condition. This present […]
He will carry the lambs in His arms, holding them close to his heart! (James Smith, “The Pastor’s Evening Visit”) “Fear not, little flock!” Luke 12:32 The Savior’s flock is small. It exists in the harsh desert. Enemies surround it. His lambs, especially, are timid. But He says, “Fear not, little flock!” You are your […]
THE BELIEVER’S SUFFICIENCY OF GOD “Then I said, Ah, Lord God! behold, I cannot speak–for I am a child. But the Lord said unto me, Say not, I am a child–for you shall go to all that I shall send you, and whatever I command you, you shall speak. Be not afraid of their faces–for […]
A faithful minister (Letters of John Newton) “He is a dear brother, a faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord.” Colossians 4:7 Dear fellow pastor, You have desired a good work—may the Lord give you the desires of your heart. May He give you . . . the wisdom of Daniel, the meekness of Moses, the courage of […]
What a lesson is here for ministers! (J. C. Philpot, “The Wisdom of Men and the Power of God” Please forward this ‘gem’ to your pastors!) “And my speech and my preaching were not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power” 1 Cor. 2:4 The word “enticing” […]
I will give you Pastors Jeremiah 3:15 And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding. I have heard someone say that the age of the local church is past and that there is no longer any use for God-ordained Pastors. It is easy for a […]