GOD'S GUIDING HAND by Congregationalist

Seventh-day Adventist Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Dec 16, 1880

GOD'S GUIDING HAND.

By Congregationalist

The following interesting story beautifully illustrates one of the most important truths which, as Christians, we have to learn: "We were on shipboard," said a captain's wife, "lying in a southern harbor. We were obliged, first, to make our way ashore. The waves were rolling heavily. I became frightened at the thought of attempting it, when one came to me, saying, 'Do not be afraid: I will take care of you.'"

"He bore a peculiar shaped lantern, only a single ray of light being emitted from a small circular opening. 'Now,' said he, 'take my hand; hold fast, do not fear. Do not look about you, or on either side of you, only on the little spot lighted by my lantern, and place your footsteps firmly right there.'"

"I heard the rushing of the waters, and was still conscious of fear; but by looking steadily only where the light fell, and planting my footsteps just there, not turning either to the right or to the left, clasping firmly the strong hand, the danger was overcome, and the shore reached in safety."

"The next day my kind guide said:—"

" 'Would you like to see the way by which you came last night?' Then he showed me where our vessel had been lying, and the very narrow plank by which we had reached the shore. He knew, that, had I turned either to the right or left, I should in all probability have lost my balance and gone over into those dark waters; but by holding fast and treading just where the light fell, all danger would be averted."

How very often does it happen in the course of one's Christian experience that he comes to some dark passage or encounters some severe trial, or passes through some sad affliction, which so overshadows the way that they fear to attempt to go forward lest they fall. Then, too, how often has it proven true that when we have clasped our heavenly Father's hand he has led us gently over the rough and dangerous places and landed us safely in some secure place. We may not be able to distinguish the way, or know just how the Lord will get us out of trouble, yet, if we cling to him we have the blessed assurance that he is able to keep all we commit unto him. Our deliverance lies in keeping the clear eye of faith steadfastly fixed on the Day-star, whose cheering beams fall upon our pathway, affording us safe guidance. The storms may rage, and the angry waves threaten to engulf us, but if we keep our eye on Jesus we shall outride the storms, and have an abundant entrance into the haven of eternal rest.

"Lend kindly light amid the encircling gloom, The night is dark, and I am far from home; Lead Thou me on! Keep Thou my feet; I do not ask to see The distant scene; one step's enough for me."

If, however, the light should, for a season, be obscured, we can still trust in Him who hath said, "My grace shall be sufficient for thee."

Yes, thank God! his grace is adequate to all needs, and his almighty arm will sustain us in every emergency. Amid our darkest experiences, clinging fast hold of our loving Father's hand we can sing with a voice which shall sound loud and clear:

"He leadeth me, O blessed thought, O words with comfort fraught; Whate'er I do, where'er I be, Still 'tis God's hand that leadeth me."