TDR: 1 March (Isaiah 54:5)

‘For your Maker is your husband’ (Isaiah 54:5)

Sweet assurance! And surprising condescension! Does Jesus, by whom all things were made, fill this sweet relation? Is He my nearest and dearest relative? Yes – He loves you more than any other: He is more closely united to you, and more deeply interested in you. He is the bridegroom, you are the bride; He has espoused you to Himself, and has made full provision for all your present wants, and is gone to prepare your everlasting habitation, where you are to dwell with Him and enjoy His love.

This relationship really exists: Jesus regards you as His beloved bride, and He would have you live daily in the recollection that He is your Lord. So love Him above all else. Call upon Him with confidence. Look for Him with ardent longing. He will come to be glorified in His saints, and admired in all those who believe. Do not think He will ever forget the person, neglect the concerns, or turn a deaf ear to the requests of His beloved, blood-bought bride.

His love is infinite, and everything is set on you; and will remain fixed on you forever. He is in one mind, and none can turn Him. Having loved you, He will love you unto the end.

Jesus, my Shepherd, Husband, Friend,
My Prophet, Priest and King,
My Lord, my Life, my Way, my End,
Accept the praise I bring.

THE DAILY REMEMBRANCER by James Smith (1802-1862)

Journal Jottings

‘How much unhappiness may one man cause. How much mischief may one man do. One restless, uneasy, mischievous person, especially if in office in a church, may spoil a minister’s comfort, and greatly impede his usefulness. How true I have found this to be of late. But in the midst of all, though deeply tried by him, God is with me, and my soul is kept alive towards God.’ [continued tomorrow]