WHO CAN TELL?

 

Who can tell?

Jonah 3:9

 
SOMETIMES we have only a possibility to encourage us,
  but then we shall persevere, if the object is important?
 
Sometimes we have a probability, and
  this should stimulate us more;
  but in many instances we have a certainty,
    as when God has given us his word.
 
We may apply the question to many subjects, for our profit,
  as, who can tell the extent of the Saviour’s merit?
 
Who can tell the beginning of the Spirit’s work?
Who can tell what will be the issue of any providence?
Who can tell the depth of God's mercy?
 
The limit of God's patience?
The designs of God's grace?
Or the means which God will honor?
 
No one should despair, for God is love,
  his wisdom is infinite, and
  his power is an impotent God has said,
  “Come unto me,”
  “Receive from me,”
  “Rest in me;”
 God has wrought strangely, wondrously, wisely, and sovereignly.
 
Every one should work,
  for who can tell what instrument God will employ?
 
Every worker should expect,
  for who can tell what a God of love will crown?
 
All should persevere and hope to the end,
  for even Nineveh was spared.
 

Then let us not despond,

Inquiring, “Who can tell?”

For in the sacred word,

The question’s answered well:

That all who come to Christ shall be

Saved now, and through eternally.

 

James Smith 1849