‘The angel of the Lord stood by’ (Zechariah 3:5)

Who was it that stood by Joshua when Satan accused and resisted him? When his filthy garments bore testimony against him and he was cited to appear before God? Surely it was Jesus.

Jesus, messenger of the covenant; the minister of the true tabernacle, which God pitched, and not any human being; the angel of Jehovah’s presence. This same Jesus stands by all His people; He stands by us. He stands on our side in prayer – in trouble – in temptation – in all our efforts to glorify His name.

He stands by to instruct us in the will of God; to help us in the work of God, and to watch over us for our good. Dear friends, whoever leaves us, Jesus still stands by us. Our eyes should always be fixed upon Him. We ought to never forget that there is one witness to every action; Jesus stands by observing.

We should therefore be careful, grateful and courageous. He stands at the right hand of the poor, to save them from those who condemn their souls. He stands ready to help, waiting to give, and determined to bless. May we always realise that Jesus stands by.

Look up, my soul, with cheerful eye,
See where the great Redeemer stands,
The glorious Advocate on high,
With precious incense in His hands!
On Him alone thy hopes recline:
His power and love are all divine.

THE DAILY REMEMBRANCER by James Smith (1802-1862)

Journal Jottings

‘My fortieth birthday. If I look back, what mercies have followed me! If I look around, what mercies surround me! If I look forward, I believe that mercies as great, or even greater, are in reserve for me.’