Morning & Evening Devotional Reading–

 January 29– Evening

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

“The dove came in to Noah in the evening.” 

—Genesis 8:11

Bless the Lord for another day of mercy, even though I am now weary from its toil. Unto the preserver of men I lift my song of gratitude.

The dove found no rest outside of the ark and, therefore, returned to it. And my soul has learned today that there is no satisfaction to be found in earthly things; God alone can give rest to my spirit. As to my business, possessions, family, and attainments, these are all good in their own way, but they cannot fulfill the desires of my immortal nature.

It was at the evening hour as the gates of day were closing that with weary wing the dove returned to her master. O, Lord, enable me this evening to return to Jesus. She could not endure to spend the whole night hovering over the restless waters, nor can I bear to be away from Jesus any longer; he is the rest of my heart, the home of my spirit.

Notice that the dove did not merely land on the roof of the ark; she “came in to Noah.” Even so, may my longing spirit come into the secret place of the Lord, enter within the veil, and reach out to the One I love. To Jesus I must come; my panting spirit cannot stay away from the nearest and dearest fellowship with him. Blessed Lord Jesus, be with me; reveal yourself; stay with me all night and remain by my side.

Lastly, the dove brought in her mouth a small twig from an olive tree. It was a summary of her day’s work and a prophecy of the future. Have I no pleasing record to bring home to my Lord? No pledge or down payment of lovingkindness yet to come? Yes, my Lord, I acknowledge your tender mercies which are new every morning and fresh every evening; and now, I pray, put forth your hand and hold your dove close to your breast. [M&E]