THE PROSPECT

 

THE PROSPECT

As for me, I will behold thy face in righteousness: I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with thy likeness. Psalm 17:15

Present circumstances may be trying.

The Lord may hide his face, or withhold sensible comforts. 

Providence may appear to frown, and temporal things may run counter to our wishes. 

Corruption may work powerfully within, and innumerable sins may stare us in the face.

Comparing ourselves with what God requires, we may be depressed; and comparing ourselves with what Jesus was, we may not be able to discover more than a very faint resemblance.

 

 But let us look forward; it will not be always as it is now.

There will be a change, and a glorious change, soon!

Others may have easier circumstances, they may be strangers to the conflicts we endure, and we may wonder at their prosperity.

But what pleases them would not satisfy us.

Nor must we expect full satisfaction in this present.

 

 If we are hungering and thirsting after righteousness; if we are longing to be like Jesus; if we are pining and praying for the presence of God; there is a glorious prospect before us!

 

 We shall see our God soon; we may now be vexed, wearied, and disappointed; but we shall awake in the likeness of Jesus!

Our present privileges are great, but our future prospects are unspeakably glorious!

“Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.” 

 

 

Like him! O glorious privilege! Wake up in his likeness!

Oh delightful prospect!

My poor, afflicted, tried, tempted, and aged friend, lift up your downcast head; look beyond your present circumstances, for your redemption draws near.

You will soon put off this tabernacle, and be clothed upon with a house which is form heaven.

 

Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fulness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. Psalm 16:11.

 

JAMES SMITH 1869