‘Now is the day of salvation’ (2 Corinthians 6:2)

What an unspeakable mercy to live at such a time as this. We are poor, lost, ruined sinners; but this is the day when salvation is freely bestowed, without money and without price. The Lord saves from the love, power, and consequences of sin; gives His Holy Spirit, writes His law in the heart, and directs our feet into the way of peace.

He gives us Jesus, who is the Saviour; gives us grace, which conquers sin; and gives us heaven, to enjoy when the journey of life is ended. This is the day in which He works deliverance for His people; He employs His power, His wisdom, His word, His providence, and His angels, for our deliverance. What then shall we fear? Of whom shall we be afraid?

Let us go to His throne remembering that it is the day of salvation; let us plead for deliverance from all that mars our peace, prevents our enjoyment, or hinders us in our Christian course. Let there be no despondency, for this is the day of good tidings; it is, believe and be saved; pray, and be delivered; wait on the Lord and He will strengthen your heart. “By grace you are saved, through faith, and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God” (Ephesians 2:8).

 Salvation! O the joyful sound,
‘Tis pleasure to our ears;
A sovereign balm for every wound,
A cordial for our fears.

THE DAILY REMEMBRANCER by James Smith (1802-1862)

Journal Jottings

‘Then came a trial with two of my deacons, who for a time were as thorns in my side. But this drove me nearer to the Lord. I found encouragement by reading over part of my diary, which had long been neglected, and then wrote – “I can say, that not one good thing hath failed. Never have I in one instance been allowed to pray in vain. My answers to prayer have been many. My mercies have been innumerable.

Jesus has at times been so exceedingly precious, that I could count all things but loss and dung for him. My enemies have been many and cruel, my temptations have been great and strong, my doubts and fears have been numberless, my foolishness and inherent corruption still remains within me. But Jesus is faithful, his promises are true, his mercy is everlasting, and his kindness is constantly displayed. Having obtained help of God, I continue until this day. Praise the Lord.”