December
16, 2003
THE
LOVINGKINDNESSES OF THE LORD
"I
will mention the lovingkindnesses of the Lord and the praises
of the Lord, according to all that the Lord has bestowed on
us" (Isaiah 63:7, NKJV).
"When
a sense of the loving-kindness of God is constantly refreshing
the soul, it will be revealed in the countenance by an expression
of peace and joy. It will be manifest in the words and works.
And the generous, holy Spirit of Christ, working upon the
heart, will yield in the life a converting influence upon
others.
"Have
we not reason to talk of God's goodness and to tell of His
power? When friends are kind to us we esteem it a privilege
to thank them for their kindness. How much more should we
count it a joy to return thanks to the Friend who has given
us every good and perfect gift. Then let us cultivate thanksgiving
to God. Let us educate our lips to praise God in the family
circle. Let our gifts and offerings declare our gratitude
for the favors we daily receive. In everything we should show
forth the joy of the Lord.
"David
declares, 'I love the Lord, because He has heard my voice
and my supplications. Because He has inclined His ear to me,
therefore I will call upon Him as long as I live' (Psalm 116:1,
2). God's goodness in hearing and answering prayer places
us under heavy obligation to express our thanksgiving for
the favors bestowed upon us. We should praise God much more
than we do. The blessings received in answer to prayer should
be promptly acknowledged.
"We
grieve the Spirit of Christ by our complaints and murmurings
and repinings. We should not dishonor God by the mournful
relating of trials that appear grievous. All trials that are
received as educators will produce joy. The whole religious
life will be uplifting, elevating, ennobling, fragrant with
good words and works.
"Let
the peace of God reign in your soul. Then you will have strength
to bear all suffering, and you will rejoice that you have
grace to endure. Praise the Lord; talk of His goodness; tell
of His power. Sweeten the atmosphere that surrounds your soul.
Praise with heart and soul and voice, Him who is the health
of your countenance, your Saviour, and your God."-- God's
Amazing Grace, p. 325.
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