‘Guard yourself in your spirit’ (Malachi 2:15)

The spirit of the Christian believer should be characterized by forbearance, humility, and love; they are exhorted to put away all anger, wrath, evil speaking, and malice; and to clothe themselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, and to be ready to forgive [Colossians 3:8, 12].

A bitter, contentious, censorious spirit is just the opposite of the Spirit of Christ; and an unforgiving person cannot be a Christian, for Jesus has said, “Except you forgive others their trespasses, neither will my Heavenly Father forgive you” [Mark 11:26]. Be careful then, with regard to your spirit, so that it cannot be said, “You do not know what kind of spirit you are of” [Luke 9:55].

Learn from Jesus: He was meek and lowly, patient and forbearing; kind to His enemies, and ready to forgive. A proud, contentious, over-bearing disciple cannot expect to have fellowship with a humble, lowly, and broken-hearted Master.

Dear friends, let us watch over our spirits; for he or she that rules their own spirit, does more than conquer a city. And a spirit that is not under control is like a city with the walls and gates broken down; open to the enemy on every side.

Come, blessed Spirit, heavenly Dove
Descend on balmy wings;
Come, tune my passions all to love,
And strike the peaceful strings:
Let every action, thought and word,
Bring honour to my holy Lord.

THE DAILY REMEMBRANCER by James Smith (1802-1862)

Journal Jottings

‘We are now holding special services for a week, for the third time; they appear to be made a blessing, and will, I hope, do good. The chapel is filled, and we have peace and union. My own soul is alive to divine things, I think seldom more so. My yearly motto is, “He will yet deliver“; I have proved it true, and believe I ever shall. I have had several direct answers to prayer of late.’