“The Isles Shall Wait For His Law”
MANY times this Biblical expression of wonderment comes to the mind of one reviewing the growth of the cause of God in the Philippines. The natural foes of this purifying message, which are inherent in every individual, are just as numerous and powerful here as in the sons of Adam anywhere. It could almost be said that they prevail to a greater degree here, on account of age-long custom making sin second nature in an already weak island race. Yet the tendency of the depraved heart for sinful indulgence, and the soul-consuming demand of the carnal mind for participation in that which Scripture describes truthfully as “the enemy of God,” does not succeed in competing successfully against the higher claims of the “blessed hope.” That narcotic drug, nicotine, has its captives here more than almost anywhere else. All the men, with few exceptions, and many women, are held in its tenacious meshes. Still, God’s drawing love proves its conqueror. Christ’s blood, in which there is so much power, compels this enemy of purity and holiness to retreat. The 235 baptisms of last year represent almost that many struggles and victories over tobacco. Then looking at temporal things, one is impressed that this finishing work of the everlasting gospel is not to be restricted, even though opposition from without takes on vigorous action. In the suburban section of Manila, a year ago, stood a native house on a large lot. To-day it sinks into comparative oblivion, and there has arisen a small printing plant, which is a center of consecrated activity; and beside this stands a neat home for its manager. Truly, the King’s business requires haste; and it is making haste, too, as was testified by a scene I witnessed a week ago, of the formation of a country church of 104 new members, the result of one tent effort. Not overlooking John 15:5, we must admit that there is a sacred partnership in this developing movement, which makes the above report possible. Without the loyal financial support of devoted Christians abroad, and liberal conferences releasing valuable workers, this would not have been accomplished. Responsibility for success or failure rests more or less on each member of Christ’s body, and not altogether on the missionary. Let each of us prove true to our trust, and share in the approaching harvest, which now literally calls for reapers.