Month: November 2011

In the midst of unparalleled wrath, God reveals His heavenly ark, the symbol of His covenant promises. The mercy seat atop this box was the place of propitiation on the Day of Atonement, and was fulfilled in Christ through His sacrificial death (Rom. 3:25). The Lord’s redemptive work is offered to all men, but many scornfully refuse it. Instead of receiving the gift of salvation, they staunchly oppose the Lord. Nevertheless, He remembers His covenant, and will save His own. Are you one of them? —K. R. Keyser

“They that are after the flesh do mind the things of the flesh,” (Rom.8:5). They walk “according to the course of this world,” (Eph. 2:2). The sinner’s mind is governed by what his sinful nature desires instead of by God. His lifestyle proves this. His understanding is darkened. How different for the child of God! He is a new creation in Christ. His mind has been changed, and he thirsts after righteousness and uses his mind to meditate upon divine things. —R. Surgenor

Life is often like a sea voyage. Storms may beat down upon one's ship, threatening to destroy. There are storms of illness, bereavement, financial adversity and loss of health. How can the Christian endure? The hope of heaven and God’s presence, based on His faithful promise, is like an anchor that steadies and keeps one from drifting. As you face whatever challenge God has called you to today; by faith cling to the anchor of God’s promise. —D. N.

The Queen of Sheba, overwhelmed with King Solomon’s wisdom, confessed: “The half has not been told.” Referring to Himself, our Lord later said, “Behold, a greater than Solomon is here.” The Psalmist overflowing with praise for the king said: “Thou art fairer than… men…with thy glory and thy majesty.” Sitting at the king’s table the beloved’s “spikenard sendeth forth the smell thereof.” Are you overwhelmed with the King, overflowing with His praise and offering your worship as sweet aroma unto Him this day? —K. C. Ung

Solomon’s dominion, though vast, was circumscribed by “the river.” The Lord’s dominion is not yet manifest before men, but it is already settled in heaven. All things are delivered into His hand (John 13:3). All power is given unto Him (Matt. 28:18). Angels and authorities and powers have been made subject unto Him (1 Pet. 3:22). He is Lord!—J. B. N.

Where is God? Unbelievers sometimes ask it contemptuously, while believers ask it when overwhelmed by tragedy, trial, and sorrow. Where is God? Let the Bible tell you. God is above His people (Psa. 91:1-4); beneath His people (Deut. 33:27); before His people (Ex. 13:21); behind His people (Isa. 30: 21); around His people (Psa. 34:7); with His people (Isa. 41:10; Matt. 28:20); and within His people (John 14:23). Make time to look up these references and be assured that whatever your circumstance God is above, beneath, before, behind, around, with, and within you. —W. Ross Rainey

From God’s standpoint, how can we utter anything against one whom He has justified? Our blessed Saviour made atonement for the smallest sin. Romans 8:33 says, “Who shall lay anything to the charge of God’s elect?” We are therefore, spotless, before the throne of God. Now James 4:11 adds; “Speak not against one another…thou are not a doer of the law but a judge.” This type of attitude calls in question the utter perfection of the work of Christ for us. May we have a “faithful spirit.” —Vernon Markle

Matthews’ Gospel confirms Jeremiah’s prophecy. “And they that passed by reviled Him, wagging their heads“ (Matt. 27:39). Even today some care not that Jesus, the Son of God was hanging on the cross for them. Sinners of indifference will perish in the same way with those who are sinners of the worst kind. Be wise! Accept the Lord Jesus as your Saviour. He died for you! —E. MacLelland

It was a stormy day. We headed up the harbour with 4 young children on board yet were barely making progress against wind and tide. Finally when we were nearly back to shore we discovered the anchor had washed overboard and was dragging behind. Do I have a habit I need to break? Do I have a weakness I need to address? The sooner I do it, the sooner I’ll get moving. —J. Fleming

In our calling and election we have the beginning and end of our salvation. Our calling is in verse 3 "called unto glory." Our ending is in verse 11, it is an "abundant entrance into the kingdom." We are going to an inheritance in eternal life. How we finish our time here determines our entrance there. Let us seek an abundant entrance.—Harold G. Smith