the Third Week after Easter
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Daily Devotionals
John Gossner's Treasury
I exhort, therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior; who will have all men to be saved, and to come into the knowledge of the truth. 1 Timothy 2:1-4. But if any provide not for his own, and especially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel. 1 Timothy 5:8.
It is a matter of great concern to the Christian that all men should be saved; he sees in every human being the price and value of Christ’s precious blood. At the sight of any human being he thinks: "Alas! also for this one the Savior died upon the cross; this one also is bought with His blood; for this one also is deliverance and salvation prepared; this one also is called to the Lamb’s supper. " How can a heart that loves Jesus and His kingdom entertain such thoughts without at the same time commending his fellowmen, through prayer and supplication, to Him who has the key to all hearts, the hammer that crushes all rocks, and turns the hearts of men as streams of water. Young people, above all, should deeply concern every devout mind, the youth whom Satan and the world especially seek to lead into destruction. O youth in thy bloom! when I behold thee I wish that I could place thee in the arms of Jesus. He would guide thee so charmingly. He would make thee so happy. Why should the blood of Jesus be lost upon thee? Let me place it on thine heart. He will bring thee peace and joy, such as the world can not give. But if it be a matter of great importance to the Christian that all men should be saved, how much more important must it be to him that his children, those of his own house, and his friends, be saved! How can he save others and see his own perish? The apostle Paul is so particular about this, that neglect of those of your own house is, in his eyes, worse than denial of the faith; worse than being an infidel. If you would not deny all faith and render your prayers, your singing and reading, your knowledge, and confidence in Christ of no avail; if you would not be worse than an infidel, then strive with greater earnestness than heretofore to attain the salvation of yourself and your household; do not rest until you have accomplished the salvation of yourself and of your house.
Joyfully, then, let us spread the glad news.
Never this service for Jesus refuse,
Never a moment to work for Him lose;
Joyfully work for Jesus.
