Morning & Evening Devotional Reading–

May 7– Evening

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

“Jesus said to him, ‘Rise, take up your bed, and walk.’” 

—John 5:8

Like many others around him, the blind and paralyzed man had been waiting for a miracle to be done and a sign to be given. He watched the pool of water in his exhausted and poor condition, but no angel came to stir the waters— and, much less, to help him. Yet, thinking it to be his only chance, he kept on waiting. He had no idea that there was One nearby whose word could heal him in a moment.

Many are in the same plight today. They are waiting for some overpowering emotion, remarkable impression, or heavenly vision. They wait in emptiness and watch for nothing. Even if it were true, in a few cases, that extraordinary signs sometimes occur, these signs are still rare, and no man has a right to expect them in his own case. No man has reason for hope, especially one who is aware of his own inability to move into the water.

It is a very sad reflection that thousands upon thousands are now waiting like this, looking to means, ordinances, vows, and resolutions. They have waiting so long but for nothing. Meanwhile these poor souls forget the Savior himself who invites them to look unto him and be saved. To trust him is the sure way to every blessing, and he is worthy of the most implicit confidence. Yes, in unbelief, they prefer to sit shivering out on the cold porch instead of being warmed on the chest of his love.

O that the Lord may turn his eye upon those who are in this predicament tonight. May he forgive the insults they have issued against his divine power. May he call them by his sweet constraining voice to rise from their beds of despair, and, in the energy of faith, take up their bed and walk. O Lord, hear our prayer at this hour of sunset. May the day break in our hearts as we look to you and live. [M&E]