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But in our national life, we are faced with many problems, inflation, unemployment,
etc., so much so that some people no longer listen to the news or read the papers. Their
minds are greatly disturbed by the "news". Voices are raised declaring that this or that is
the solution to our national problems. But earthly wisdom is not enough to enable a
solution to be found. When Christ returns, He alone will be able to show the right
solution. He can heal the differences between the nations and the internal differences too.
But even when He returns there will be opposition to His rule until all things are put
under His feet.
One of Christ's names is the Prince of Peace.
As we conclude, let us remember the picture of the storm at sea when Christ was
asleep on a pillow in the boat (Mark 4: 35-41). The boat was full of water as the waves
washed over it.
"Master, carest Thou not that we perish?" cried the disciples. "And He arose, and
rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still" (Literally, "Silence, be quiet!").
As the storms of life break over us, we too may be afraid or at least, the peace of our
minds may be disturbed. The outlook for this material world is indeed grim. We need to
hear the reassuring voice of the Lord so that our minds may have peace.
Should we not have that inward peace that only God can give? Whatever the
"outward" may be, our peace should remain. Why? Because we have peace with God.
Because we should let the peace of God rule in our hearts, and because the God of peace
is with us.
"Let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body;
and be ye thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom . . . . ."
(Col. 3: 15, 16).
No.12.
Sympathy.
pp. 122 - 125
"So if there is any encouragement in Christ, any incentive of love,
any participation in the Spirit, any affection and sympathy,
complete my job by being of the same mind . . . . ." (Phil. 2: 1, 2, R.S.V.).
"If there be therefore any consolation in Christ, if any comfort of love,
if any fellowship of the Spirit, if any bowels and mercies,
fulfil ye my joy, that ye be likeminded . . . . ." (Phil. 2: 1, 2, A.V.).
There are some people who have been given a sympathetic nature; they are good
listeners, and inspire others with hope and confidence. It has been said that one cannot
sympathize fully unless the experience has been shared. For example, one who has had a
nervous breakdown can sympathize with a person suffering from the illness in a way that