Morning & Evening Devotional Reading–

July 6– Morning

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

“Whoever listens to me will live in safety and will have no fear of evil.” 

—Proverbs 1:33

God’s love toward us becomes even more evident in the middle of hardships. How beautiful is the lone star that confidently smiles through the thunder clouds at night. How bright is the oasis that blooms in the wilderness of sand. How beautiful and bright is God’s love in the middle of wrath.

In the Old Testament, when the Israelites provoked God and continued in their affection for idols, he punished them by sending a famine to their land. But while he did this he saw to it that his own chosen ones were secure. Even when all other brooks were dry, there was one reserved for Elijah; and when that one failed, God sustained him by special means. Furthermore, we are told there were many others besides Elijah that God sustained as well.

Let us draw the inference that, come what may, God’s people are safe. Let the earth quake and the sky fall, but the believer will be as secure as in the calmest hour of rest. And, if for whatever holy and good reason God chooses not to save his people under heaven, he will save them in heaven. If the world becomes too hot to hold them, then heaven will receive them into safety.

Be confident! When you hear of wars and rumors of wars, don’t become disturbed, fearing the evil around you. Instead, be assured that, no matter what comes, you are beneath the protective wings of Jehovah. Rest in his faithful promise, and defy even the darkest forecasts, for nothing can harm you. Your only concern should be to show the world the blessedness of listening to the voice of God’s wisdom. [M&E]