|
Pr. Charles Haddon Spurgeon
July 24 - Morning
"Stand still, and see the salvation of the Lord." (Exodus 14:13)
These words contain God’s command to the believer when he is reduced to great straits and brought
into extraordinary difficulties. He cannot retreat; he cannot go forward; he is shut up on the right
hand and on the left; what is he now to do? The Master’s word to him is, "Stand still." It will be
well for him if at such times he listens only to his Master’s word, for other and evil advisers come
with their suggestions. Despair whispers, "Lie down and die; give it all up." But God would have
us put on a cheerful courage, and even in our worst times, rejoice in His love and faithfulness.
Cowardice says, "Retreat; go back to the worldling’s way of action; you cannot play the Christian’s
part, it is too difficult. Relinquish your principles." But, however much Satan may urge this course
upon you, you cannot follow it if you are a child of God. His divine fiat has bid thee go from
strength to strength, and so thou shalt, and neither death nor hell shall turn thee from thy course.
What, if for a while thou art called to stand still, yet this is but to renew thy strength for some
greater advance in due time. Precipitancy cries, "do something. Stir yourself; to stand still and
wait, is sheer idleness." We must be doing something at once–we must do it so we think–instead of
looking to the Lord, who will not only do something but will do everything. Presumption boasts,
"If the sea be before you, march into it and expect a miracle." But Faith listens neither to
Presumption, nor to Despair, nor to Cowardice, nor to Precipitancy, but it hears God say, "Stand still,"
and immovable as a rock it stands. "Stand still";–keep the posture of an upright man, ready for action,
expecting further orders, cheerfully and patiently awaiting the directing voice; and it will not be
long ere God shall say to you, as distinctly as Moses said it to the people of Israel, "Go forward."
|