‘I will be a Father to you’ (2 Corinthians 6:18)

Nobody can be a loser by adhering to God’s holy word, for they are promised a hundred-fold in the present life, and eternal life in the world to come. Carnal connections must be broken off. Decision of character must be manifested. The world must be forsaken. Christ and the world will not unite. Carnality and spirituality cannot be reconciled.

Our God says, “Come out from them, and be separate; do not touch the unclean thing; and I will receive you, and will be a FATHER to you” [2 Corinthians 6:17]. What can we need more to encourage, embolden, and produce decision?

Suppose some reject me, despise me, and persecute me; God will receive me. Suppose they injure me and try to starve me, God will be a Father to me. He will care for me – protect me – dwell with me – comfort me – supply me – and fill a Father’s place. I cannot be friendless. I should not be afraid.

Dear friends, God says, “PROVE ME”. Are you called upon to forsake friends, to break off connections, lose trade, or endure persecutions? Fear not, act for God – look to God – He will receive you, and be a Father to you.

And wilt thou, Lord, a Father be,
To those who leave the world for Thee.
Wilt Thou provide for every want.
And tokens of Thy favour grant?
Then, Lord, I bid the world farewell,
And now Thy word in me fulfil.

THE DAILY REMEMBRANCER by James Smith (1802-1862)

Journal Jottings

‘The cause goes on well at present, but my foreboding heart sometimes says, “Too well to continue so.” But, the Lord forbid, that anything should arise to disturb our peace or distress our souls. I am still very dissatisfied with myself, I am so far below what I should be in spirituality and nearness to God. O that I was holy! O that I could live near to the Lord!’