G. D. BALLOU by G. D. Ballou

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Jul 29, 1886

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 12, No. 29.

G. D. BALLOU

By G. D. Ballou

Repose.

The men of power and influence are those who are composed. Fretters do not command our respect. Those who are so uneasy that they never come to a position of rest, are not the ones to whom we can tie and feel secure. Those whose counsel and judgment we honor are the men of serene nature and calm bearing. Those who mid the turmoil and strife of this world quietly repose in God, are the men of power. Repose does not mean inaction, but a condition of mind that sustains mental equipoise, no matter what duties, and cares, and perplexities may press the soul. Jesus was a perfect example, and his conduct ever exemplified the working of a power sustained by calm repose. See him at the marriage feast, at the grave of Lazarus, in Gethsemane, in the judgment hall, and finally on the cross. What self-possession was ever manifest! This true Christian repose is the strongest expression of faith in our heavenly Father, and loving confidence in his promises.

There are many poor, tempest-tossed souls who would find sweet comfort in this repose if they would only cast their burdens on the Lord, and rest in him. Let that perplexed, over-anxious, care-worn, weary, nervous one sit down patiently and take a little sweet repose. It will do her good. And let the men who have heavy burdens to carry, under which they sometimes chafe and fret, seek a condition of repose. It will add to their power in the world, and make them stronger to bear burdens for God. It is worry, not work, that kills. Many a sick one would recover if he would learn to rest in God. How can God grant any of us blessings when we do not manifest confidence in him? “Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him;” “trust also in him, and he shall bring it to pass.” More power will be manifest in the church of Christ when all have learned the lesson of repose. “Return unto thy rest, O my soul; for the Lord hath dealt bountifully with thee.”