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Object of God’s Tenderest Care, October 3
In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy
temple in the Lord: in whom ye also are builded together for an
habitation of God through the Spirit.
Ephesians 2:21, 22
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The living church of God is individually a habitation of God through
the Spirit, that man may become a well-built temple for the indwelling
of the Holy Spirit of God, that the Lord Jesus Christ may dwell in his
innermost being, ennobling and sanctifying his human nature by His
divine attributes.
The church of Christ is to be in the world but not of the world. In
calling His people together in church capacity, God designs that they
shall form one Christian family and daily be fitting for membership in the
family above.
God thus forms the believers in His Word in one body, that their
influence may be a blessing to one another and to the world. Each member
converted reveals a transformation of character, and he is strengthened
and sustained by the courage and faith of the whole. The weakest saint,
if he believes in Christ, is a member of Christ’s body; and if he lives in
humble dependence upon God, he will become strong; for he has a right
to all the privileges of a child of God.
The church is the object of God’s tenderest love and care. If the
members will allow Him, He will reveal His character through them. He
says to them, “Ye are the light of the world.” Those who walk and talk
with God practice the gentleness of Christ. In their lives, forbearance,
meekness, and self-restraint are united with holy earnestness and diligence.
As they advance heavenward, the sharp, rough edges of character are worn
off, and godliness is seen. The Holy Spirit, full of grace and power, works
upon mind and heart.
Christ has made provision that His church shall be a transformed body
illumined with the light of heaven, possessing the glory of Immanuel. It
is His purpose that every Christian shall be surrounded with a spiritual
atmosphere of light and peace.
There is no limit to the usefulness of the one who, putting self aside,
makes room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon the heart and lives a
life wholly consecrated to God.
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