But the dove found no rest for the sole of her foot, and she returned unto Noah into the ark, when he put forth his hand and took her, and pulled her in unto him into the ark. Genesis 8:9.
Many, on their first awakening from sin, apply themselves to very hard works and rigorous duties, thereby expecting to find rest for their wounded consciences. But though the right and diligent use of all the means of grace is absolutely required, yet great care must be taken not to quiet ourselves by that only. We should not place any confidence at all in our doings, but only look for rest through the work of the redemption, and the blood of Christ. To know ourselves entirely justified by him, would soon fill our hearts with peace, nay, encourage and enable us to do good works. 2 Chronicles 17:6,
In vain the trembling conscience seeks
Some solid ground for rest,
With long despair the spirit breaks,
’Till we apply to Christ.
Just as we see the lonesome dove
Bemoan her widowed state,
Wandering she flies through all the grove,
And mourns her loving mate.
Just so our thoughts from thing to thing,
In restless circles rove.
Just so we droop and hang the wing.
When Jesus hides his love.
While Jesus shines with quickening grace,
We sing and mount on high,
But if a frown becloud his face,
We faint, and tire, and die.