The Christian’s Discipline.
By A. S. Nason
When the young convert enlists under the banner of King Jesus, he sees, dimly, something of what is required of him to be a good soldier of the cross, and he sets joyfully about the work of fitting himself for his Master’s service. At first, his task seems comparatively easy. The joy of his newly awakened soul is so rich and full that the daily burdens of life pass off lightly. He lives in an atmosphere of perfect peace. But as he advances, he meets more difficulty. He had not calculated on such discipline as this. He begins to grow weary and discouraged. The light that has shone about his pathway begins to fade away, and he feels darkness closing about him. God is testing him. Will he stand the test? Very many start well at first, and they bid fair for running the race to the end. But they lack endurance. And when some great trial overtakes them, they lose their confidence, and feel that it is useless to struggle longer. They lose sight of the reward when the battle is over, and they lay off their armor, and yield to the foe. Such are not good soldiers. The good soldier will never falter. The more bitter the trial he is called to pass through, the more earnestly will he strive in the great work of gaining the mastery over himself. Here is where the great battle lies—it is with ourselves. In the strength of Jesus we can conquer; but never in our own strength. This work of overcoming self is not an easy task. Never shall we gain entire victory without enduring much of suffering and keen mental anguish. But we have in all our trials the great consolation that our Saviour is permitting us to pass under the rod for our good. We may not understand why he tries us thus. It may seem very strange that we are called to endure such severe discipline. But if through all the darkness and the agony we can calmly trust, and feel to say, I know it is my Father’s hand, let him do what seemeth to him good, we shall come forth from the furnace purified, to the enjoyment of richer and purer blessing in Christ than we have yet known. “Oh! blessed thought! there’s not a drop
In all the cup of woe,
That is not measured by His hand,
And will not overflow.
Then may we ever trust his love,
And, though severely tried,
Remember that it needs to be,
And in his strength abide.”