May 31
"BE OF GOOD CHEER"
"In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I
have overcome the world" John 16:33
My Lord's words are true as to the tribulation. I have my share of
it beyond all doubt. The flail is not hung up out of the way, nor can
I hope that it will be laid aside so long as I lie upon the
threshingfloor. How can I look to be at home in the enemy's country,
joyful while in exile, or comfortable in a wilderness? This is not my
rest. This is the place of the furnace, and the forge, and the hammer.
My experience tallies with my Lord's words.
I note how He bids me "be of good cheer." Alas! I am far too apt to
be downcast. My spirit soon sinks when I am sorely tried. But I must
not give way to this feeling. When my Lord bids me cheer up I must not
dare to be cast down.
What is the argument which He uses to encourage me? Why, it is His
own victory. He says, "I have overcome the world." His battle was much
more severe than mine. I have not yet resisted unto blood. Why do I
despair of overcoming? See, my soul, the enemy has been once overcome.
I fight with a beaten foe. O world, Jesus has already vanquished thee;
and in me, by His grace, He will overcome thee again. Therefore am I
of good cheer, and sing unto my conquering Lord.
THE MONTH OF JUNE