‘I will not leave you as orphans’ (John 14:18)

When they are in darkness, Christian believers often fear that Jesus has forsaken them: this is natural, but unscriptural. For Jesus has said: “I will never leave you; never will I forsake you” [Hebrews 13:5]. His duties require His presence with us; His love secures His presence to us. He will not leave us as orphans.

We are absolutely dependent upon Him, our comfort is His gift, and the continuance of comfort depends on His presence and grace. He the great source of comfort to His people; His presence and His comforts are generally connected; He may withhold them for a time to reprove – instruct – or correct us; but we may calculate upon His comforts returning, for His promise is plain; it stands unequivocally in His word; and His nature and love are the same.

His precious word of promise should be believed – pleaded – firmly trusted: We shall never be orphans, for our Father lives forever; our home waits to receive us; and our hope is imperishable. Oh, dear friends, plead this precious word of Jesus; expect Him to make it good; aim at His glory, and your comforts are guaranteed.

Most Holy Spirit, give me faith,
To rest on what my Saviour saith:
May I the sweetest comforts prove
Of His divine eternal love.
And daily trust His faithfulness,
Who will not leave me comfortless.

THE DAILY REMEMBRANCER by James Smith (1802-1862)

Journal Jottings

‘O Lord, again I lay myself at thy footstool, again I say from my inmost soul, use me to thy glory and praise!’