THE LORD REIGNETH

 
EVENING DEVOTION    by James Smith

JULY 14

 

Psalm 97:1

 

The LORD reigneth; let the earth rejoice;

let the multitude of isles be glad thereof.

 
That Lord is thy Saviour.
 
He wears thy nature.
 
He knows thee well.
 
He loves thee more than a mother does her firstborn, her only son.
 
He keeps thy welfare in view in all he does,—and in all he permits.
 
He reigns supreme, thrones and dominions, and principalities, and powers, are made subject to him.
 
In his government he equally displays his wisdom and power—his justice— and mercy—his sovereignty and grace.
 
He reigns to advance the interests of holiness, the happiness, and endless welfare of his people.
 
He reigns over his enemies, and secretly frustrates their designs, using their energies for the accomplishment of his purposes.
 
He rules in as well as over his friends.
 
Thus he preserves them from evils, manages their affairs, and fulfils his word.
 
“The Lord reigneth.”
 
Think of this when Satan besets and harrasses you.
 
When sin rises within you, perplexing and distressing you.
 
When providence frowns on you, crossing you plans, blasting your gourds, and trying your faith.
 
When you have fightings without, and fears within. When enemies oppose you, when sickness lays you low, and when death stares you in the face.
 

The Lord is king, rejoice and sing,

My Lord and king thou art,

The Spirit reigns, thy love maintains

Its sway within my heart.

 
James Smith