THAT YE BE NOT SLOTHFUL,

 

EVENING DEVOTION by James Smith

APRIL 14

 

Hebrews 6:12

That ye be not slothful, but followers of them who

through faith and patience inherit the promises.

 
That were to prevert truth,
   abuse mercy,
      dishonour God, and
          ratify the prince of darkness.
 
Slothfulness is a disgrace both in reference to temporals and spirituals.
  Not slothful in business;
  but, active, diligent, and industrious.
 
Carrying on business from a pure motive, in a proper spirit, with becoming zeal.
 
So should every Christian so.
 
But in reference to spiritual things the Apostle speaks.
 
That ye be not slothful in seeking blessings,
   in employing your talents,
   in exercising your graces,
   in copying your examples;
even them who through faith and patience now inherit the promises.
 
Let hope inspire you. Let the love of Christ constrain you.
 
Let the holy precepts of the gospel direct you.
 
Let the glorious promises of grace animate and strengthen you.
 
Be not slothful, for all around you are active. The world is active to ensnare you.
 
Satan is active to deceive you.
 
Angels are active in administering to you.
 
Jesus is active in carrying on your cause before the throne.
 
Time swiftly flies.
 
Eternity is fast approaching. The last opportunity will soon present itself.
 
 

Happy we live, when God doth fill

Our hands with work, our hearts with zeal;

For every toil, if he enjoin,

Becomes a sacrifice divine,

And like the holy ones above,

The more we serve, the more we love.

 
James Smith