Morning & Evening Devotional Reading–

November 20– Morning

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

“[Lord], You have pleaded for the welfare of my soul.” 

—Lamentations 3:58

Notice how positively the prophet speaks. He doesn’t say, “I hope, I trust, I sometimes think, that God has pleaded for the welfare of my soul”; but he speaks of it as a matter of fact not to be disputed. Therefore, with the help of the Holy Spirit let’s shake off those doubts and fears that so easily destroy our peace and comfort. Let’s stop talking with the harsh, crusty voice of suspicion and speak with the clear voice of full assurance.

Notice how gratefully the prophet speaks, ascribing all the glory to God alone! There isn’t a mention of his own pleadings. He doesn’t ascribe his deliverance in any measure to any man; it is the LORD that has pleaded for him. The Christian should always cultivate a grateful spirit– especially after times of deliverance. Earth should be a temple filled with the songs of grateful saints, and every day should be a censor smoking with the incense of thanksgiving.

How joyful Jeremiah seems to be while he remembers the Lord’s mercy. How triumphantly he lifts up his voice! He has been in the low dungeon and is often called “the weeping prophet”; and yet in this very book called “Lamentations” we hear his voice rising to heaven, “You, O God, have pleaded for the well-being of my soul; you have redeemed my life.”

If you are a child of God, then seek after a vital experience of the Lord’s loving-kindness; and, when you have it, speak positively of it; sing gratefully; shout triumphantly! [M&E]