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We May Triumph Gloriously, September 29
These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have
peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I
have overcome the world.
John 16:33
.
“These things have I spoken unto you,” the Saviour said, “that my
joy might remain in you, and that your joy might be full” (
John 15:11
).
The work of overcoming is not a joyless work; no, indeed. It means
communication with Heaven. You can go to God in prayer; you can ask,
and receive; you can believe, hanging your helpless soul on Christ. It
means that humanity can work the will and ways of God. Humanity and
divinity are combined for this very purpose.
God sends trials to prove who will stand faithful under temptation. He
brings us into trying positions to see if we will trust in a power out of and
above ourselves. Everyone has undiscovered traits of character that must
come to light through trial. God allows those who are self-sufficient to be
sorely tempted that they may understand their helplessness. He suffers the
deep waters of affliction to go over our souls, in order that we may know
Him and Jesus Christ whom He has sent, in order that we may have deep
heart longings to be cleansed from defilement, and may come forth from
the trial purer, holier, happier. Often we enter the furnace of affliction with
our souls darkened with selfishness; but if patient under the crucial test,
we shall come forth reflecting the divine character. When His purpose in
the affliction is accomplished “he shall bring forth thy righteousness as
the light, and thy judgment as the noonday” (
Psalm 37:6
).
“Watch ye and pray, lest ye enter into temptation” (
Mark 14:38
).
Watch against the stealthy approach of the enemy, watch against old
habits and natural inclinations, lest they assert themselves; force them
back, and watch. Watch the thoughts, watch the plans, lest they become
self-centered. Watch over the souls that Christ has purchased with His
own blood. Watch for opportunities to do them good.
A great crisis is just before us. To meet its trials and temptations and
to perform its duties will require persevering faith. But we may triumph
gloriously; not one watching, praying, believing soul will be ensnared by
the enemy.
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