‘God is for me’ (Psalm 56:9)

Beloved, the greatest mercy a sinner can enjoy is to have God on their side, engaged in their quarrel, and employed in their most important concerns; this mercy is yours. God is for you: He chose you in Christ before the world began; He formed you to show forth His praise; He preserved you in Christ until He called you by grace; He quickened you by His Spirit and led you to Jesus; He has given you His Son and promised every additional good.

He has said to you, “You are mine!”; you have said to Him, “I am Yours!” ! God is now your refuge and strength; He is tenderly concerned for your welfare, devotedly attached to your cause, and observes every step you take. He may try your faith, but He will certainly supply your wants. He may exercise your patience, but He will never turn a deaf ear to your cries, except you indulge iniquity in your heart.

No parent ever felt so deeply interested in the welfare of a beloved child, as your God does in you. He says, “Fear not, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you. I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10).

God is our refuge and defence,
In trouble our unfailing aid;
Secure in his omnipotence,
What foe can make our souls afraid!

THE DAILY REMEMBRANCER by James Smith (1802-1862)

Journal Jottings

‘At the expiration of my month [in Cheltenham], I was invited to return and preach for twelve months, with an understanding that at the end of nine months we should come to a decision, whether I should become the pastor of the church or no. A reply was requested before I left the town, as the people were very anxious, but this I refused until I had taken time to lay the matter before the Lord, and consult my friends.

The fact was, my heart was at Devizes, and there I wished to go; but the Lord had appointed me for Cheltenham, and there I must go’.