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An Atmosphere of Hopefulness and Cheer, August 18
Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice.
Philippians 4:4
.
To the Christian is granted the joy of gathering rays of eternal light from the
throne of glory, and of reflecting these rays not only on his own path, but on the paths
of those with whom he associates. By speaking words of hope and encouragement,
of grateful praise and kindly cheer, he may strive to make those around him better,
to elevate them, to point them to heaven and glory, and to lead them to seek, above
all earthly things, the eternal substance, the immortal inheritance, the riches that are
imperishable.
“Rejoice in the Lord alway,” says the apostle; “and again I say, Rejoice.” Wher-
ever we go, we should carry an atmosphere of Christian hopefulness and cheer;
then those who are out of Christ will see attractiveness in the religion we profess;
unbelievers will see the consistency of our faith. We need to have more distinct
glimpses of heaven, the land where all is brightness and joy. We need to know more
of the fullness of the blessed hope. If we are constantly “rejoicing in hope,” we shall
be able to speak words of encouragement to those whom we meet. “A word spoken
in due season, how good is it!” Souls are perishing for the lack of personal labor.
Not alone in daily association with believers and unbelievers are we to glorify
God by speaking often one to another in words of gratitude and rejoicing. As
Christians, we are exhorted not to forsake the assembling of ourselves together,
for our own refreshing, and to impart the consolation we have received. In these
meetings, held from week to week, we should dwell upon God’s goodness and
manifold mercies, upon His power to save from sin. In features, in temper, in words,
in character, we are to witness that the service of God is good. Thus we proclaim
that “the law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul.”
Our prayer and social meetings should be seasons of special help and encour-
agement. Each one has a work to do to make these gatherings as interesting and
profitable as possible. This can best be done by having a fresh experience daily in
the things of God, and by not hesitating to speak of His love in the assemblies of
His people. If you allow no darkness or unbelief to enter your hearts, they will not
be manifest in your meetings....
By the mystery and glory of the cross we can estimate the value of man, and
then we shall see and feel the importance of working for our fellow men, that they
may be exalted to the throne of God (
The Southern Watchman, March, 7, 1905
).
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