Morning & Evening Devotional Reading–

 February 19– Evening

by C. H. Spurgeon, revised and edited by W. C. Neff

“[Andrew] first set out to find his own brother Simon.” 

—John 1:41

This case is an excellent pattern of all cases where spiritual life is vigorous. As soon as a man finds Christ, he begins to find others. I will not believe that you have tasted the honey of the gospel if you can eat it all by yourself. True grace puts an end to all spiritual monopoly. Andrew first found his own brother Simon, and then others.

Relationships play a significant role in our first efforts as new believers. Andrew, you did well to begin with Simon. No doubt there are some Christians doing evangelism and service at other people’s houses who would do well to do it first at home. Some may go to foreign countries to do works of ministry who are neglecting their special sphere of usefulness at home. You may or may not be called to evangelize the people in a particular geographical location, but certainly you are called to look after your own family, friends, and coworkers. Let your spirituality begin at home.

Many tradesmen export their best commodities; the Christian should not. He should talk about partaking of Christ everywhere, but let him take care to put forth the sweetest fruit of spiritual life and testimony in his own family. When Andrew went to find his brother he little imagined how important Simon would become. Simon Peter was worth ten Andrews in terms of his effect on sacred history, and yet Andrew was instrumental in bringing him to Jesus. You may be very deficient in talent yourself, and yet you may be the means of drawing to Christ one who will be used greatly in God’s grace and service.

Ah! dear friend, you don’t know the possibilities that are right under your nose. You may simply speak a word to a child, but that word will awaken a slumbering heart that will stir the Christian church in years to come. Andrew puts to use his relationships, and he finds Peter. Go, and do likewise. [M&E]