‘The Lord God is a Sun and Shield’ (Psalm 84:11)

To Him we must look for light, comfort and fruitfulness. He is our light and our salvation. He will not leave us comfortless. From Him our fruit is found. The people who know Him, and walk with Him, are blessed. He gives light in darkness, joy in sorrow, and life in death.

He is our defence; from Him we must expect protection. His salvation is our shield; faith lays hold of it, and employs it against all our foes. He will enlighten and protect us; He will never fail us, or leave us to want or perish. He communicates His favours as freely, as easily, and as plentifully as the sun shines; there is enough in Him, and He will cheerfully bestow.

Let us therefore wait upon Him today, and walk in the light of His countenance. Who is among you that fears the Lord, and obeys the voice of His servant, that walks in darkness and has no light? Let them trust in the name of the Lord, and depend upon their God. God’s heart is towards us forevermore; His promises shall be fulfilled towards us and He will glorify every perfection of His nature within us.

Lord, be my safety and defence,
My light, my joy, my bliss,
My portion in the world to come,
My confidence in this.
Be Thou, O Lord, my Shield and Sun,
As I the path of duty run.

THE DAILY REMEMBRANCER by James Smith (1802-1862)

Journal Jottings

‘The Lord still blesses my labours, and the church and congregation continue to increase. But when I take a view of the depravity of my heart, and my guilty neglect of private duties, I wonder that He can bless me at all.’