Hid in Christ by Elias Benjamin Sanford

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · May 8, 1884

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 10, No. 18.

Hid in Christ.

By Elias Benjamin Sanford

UNION with Christ gives the insight of his love. To those who obediently follow him, the light of that vision, dawning upon the soul in the moment of spiritual birth, increases as the "going forth of the morning." The cross as a factor in human history and the source of doctrine, may be analyzed and discussed by the thoughtful student, but it becomes luminous only to the heart that has received the insight of redeeming love. The humble disciple, whose life is hid in Christ, has a far more satisfactory knowledge of the truth than that possessed by the profound scholar whose heart is a stranger to the indwelling of the divine grace. In this light self is revealed; a disclosure that is sad and disheartening. But the spiritual insight that Christ bestows is along lines of light that center in hope without and not within.

Introspective thought can never be healthful unless the mind, from the discovery of need and weakness, seeks and finds the sources of eternal strength. Life hid in Christ does not blind the soul. Quickened by the power of the Holy Spirit it becomes more sensitive and alive in all its faculties; the light that discloses the way of access and reconciliation to God, guides the redeemed life into harmony with the divine will, whose gracious heritage is grace and fullness of joy.

Sheltered in Christ we are brought under the best possible condition of spiritual culture. There is bestowed an insight that has a transfiguring quality. Virtues and graces, that in their nature are excellent, manifest a meaning and purpose that is only evolved by union with the mind and Spirit of the divine Redeemer. The disclosures of truth that come through this communion are more full and precious than those bestowed by any reflected light. The day is better than the night, even if the moon be full-orbed.

The insight of life hid in Christ not only gives clear views of truth that strengthen and enrich personal character, but it discloses the divine method and spirit of service for others. "Follow me," says the Master, "and I will make you fishers of men." Those who keep close to him possess the insight of faith and love that is granted the joy of winning souls. There is lack neither of opportunity nor usefulness. They see the waving harvest-fields and are eager to thrust in the sickle.—Rev. E. B. Sanford.