0328. A BLESSED FEAR.

A BLESSED FEAR.

"Then they that feared the Lord spake often one to another, and the Lord hearkened and heard" (Mal_3:16-17).

1. Three things about the Lord’s people. Their-

1. Reverence. "They fear the Lord." This is not the fear of a cringing slave, but of a dutiful child. The fear of holy worshippers.

2. Thoughtfulness. "They thought upon His Name." His Name means His character, therefore it is precious, something well worth thinking about. "Where two or three are gathered together in My Name, there am I." Those who think upon His Name will now be found speaking lovingly of Him (Luk_24:15).

3. Testimony. "They spake often one to another." Those who love the Lord, love one another, and feel their kinship in Him. "Come all ye that fear the Lord, and I will declare what He hath done for my soul" (Psa_66:16).

2. Three things about the Lord. His-

1. Interestedness. "The Lord hearkened and heard." He that formed the ear, shall He not hear? He hearkens as if bending down His ear to catch every whisper spoken of Him. He is interested for our sakes. "If the Lord should not be with me," said a preacher, "I will speak well of Him behind His back."

2. Carefulness. "A book of remembrance was written before Him." The names of all fellow-labourers are written in the Book of Life (Php_4:3). Every word is noted, because by our words shall we be justified or condemned (Mat_12:36-37). Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, then you shall speak and sing with grace in your hearts to the Lord (Col_3:16).

3. Faithfulness. "They shall be Mine when I make up My jewels." "All which the Father hath given Me, I shall lose nothing" (Joh_6:39). This assurance is again given in His great prayer in John 17. "Father, I will that they also whom Thou hast given Me be with Me where I am." The Lord knoweth them that are His. They shall be Mine; Mine to save, and keep, and feed, and teach, and lead, and glorify.

Autor: James Smith