Should It Be According

 
Evening Devotion

DECEMBER 26

 

Should it be according to thy mind?

Job 34:33

 

Many appear to think so.
 
If we may judge by their conduct they think that the Most High should have consulted their case, their fancy, and their aggrandizement.
 
The gospel is not just what they would like it to be.
 
Providence does not work as they desire.
 
Few things are exactly as they should be.
 
Should it be to thy mind?
 
Is not thy mind carnal, selfish, prejudice?
 
If it were according to the mind would not God’s glory be obscured?
 
Would not others suffer, and thine own danger be greater?
 
Is not thy God wiser, kinder, and holier than thou art?
 
Does he not love justice?
 
Are not his mercies over all his works?
 
True, you may be afflicted you may be poor, you may be sickly, what then?
 
You are wishing for health, for a competency, for freedom from trials, but, “should it be according to thy mind?”
 
Beloved, let us guard against such a spirit, it is criminal, it is dangerous.
 
The thing is impracticable, your God must govern, he is wonderful in counsel, and excellent in working.
 
His ways are just, his plans are wise, his designs are merciful, and when the work is complete, every part will reflect his glory.
 

Let saints proclaim Jehovah’s praise,

And acquiesce in all his ways,

He keeps eternity in sight,

And what his hand performs is right.

 
James Smith