Morning & Evening Devotional Reading–

November 18– Morning

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

“A private spring, and a sealed fountain.” 

—Song of Solomon 4:12

This metaphor can be used to describe the inner life of a believer, and the very first thing we notice is the plain idea of secrecy. It is a private spring– just as there were springs in the East over which a building was built so that none could drink from it except those who knew secret entrance. And so it is with the heart of a believer when it is renewed by grace; there is a mysterious life within which no human skill can touch. It is a secret that no other man knows; even the very man who owns it can’t tell his neighbor.

In addition, then, there is not only the idea of secrecy, but separation. It is not the common spring of which every passer-by may drink; it is one kept and preserved from all others; it is a fountain bearing a particular mark–a king’s royal seal so that all can perceive that it’s not a common fountain but one privately owned and specially placed by itself. So is it with the spiritual life. God’s chosen people were separated by his eternal command, and they are separated by possessing a life that others don’t have. That’s why it’s impossible for them to feel at home with the world or to be content with its pleasures.

There is also the notion here of security. Oh! How sure and safe is the inner life of the believer! If all the powers of earth and hell could combine against it, it would still stand, for the One who gave it has also pledged his life to preserve it. And who will harm you when God is your protector? [M&E]