Author: Gospel Folio Press

The phrase “in times past” draws attention to what we were in unsaved days: Christless, Godless, hopeless, and afar off. Those were dark days indeed. Then we have, “But now”. What a change has been wrought in us and for us. We have been brought near, reconciled, become possessors of peace and sharers in a glorious and blessed hope. We remember what we once were and will forever be grateful for what we now are. —Roy Hill

Since there is so much error, false teaching, and misunderstanding of the Scripture in our culture, we must be like the Bereans who “searched the Scriptures daily, whether these things were so,” (Acts 17:11). Much of this error is seen in the broadcast and print media so we must carefully instruct our young people and new believers since they would be more easily swayed due to lack of Bible knowledge. Man likes to contribute something to the work of God so he can say he earned his way. Careful study of the Word will tell us the work is done!—W. H. Gustafson

The excitement of the last few minutes had suddenly vanished, and once smiling faces were now fearful and terrified. Without opening the door, the Saviour suddenly appeared offering peace to His shocked disciples, who supposed they had seen a spirit. However, when He asked for food and ate it in their presence, they were confident He was the risen Lord, the Man, Christ Jesus. Jesus is alive today at the Father’s own right hand. Believe it with all your heart, and enjoy the peace He gave to them and now offers you and me.—Arnot P. McIntee

The person we marry will impact greatly on our life. So many Christians have married a non-Christian and today are far from God. Are you a Christian and thinking of marrying someone who doesn’t love the Lord? Don’t! How much better to marry someone who loves God and will encourage you in your walk with Him. —Janet Fleming

Eli was a father who failed to discipline his sons. May I encourage parents to guide your children in the formative years. Guide them by example and instruction. Restrain them, that is, hold the reins. The rider uses the reins to direct the horse, loose enough to allow it to gallop yet without losing control. There is a wise balance that God can give in training your children. Discipline is “a strict training of the mind or character” or “obedience to the rules and commands.” It takes time, but it is so worthwhile. —James Comte

Jesus had initially chosen the twelve that they might be with Him. For more than three years they had been His companions, His friends, His little flock, but now, when it seemed that He needed them most, He was to be left—alone! He would be alone in the palace of the high priest; alone before Pilate and Herod; alone on the cross as a holy Sinbearer, forsaken even by God. What a lonely Man He was! —Jim Flanigan

Should Christians fight for their rights, when facing opposition from the world? This story gives the answer. The Israelites were facing fierce opposition but God said, “Stand still!” That took faith! Today, as we face increasing opposition, we too must stand still, commit each situation to the Lord and trust Him to fight the battle. The world will then know that God is God, and we will have His peace in our heart (Phil 4:7).—David Croudace

In the words “grace for grace” is the image of a fast-flowing river. Each moment, displacement of water is instantly matched by an equal replacement. There is no lessening of either quantity or quality. So it is with Divine grace; that vast reservoir is always full, whatever our needs may be. Do not hesitate to draw from it today!—George Hall

This verse urges us to sing a new song, for “Streams of mercy, never ceasing, call for songs of loudest praise.” Streams flow between river banks, banks that change little from year to year. But the streams are always new, always fresh. So my needs may remain constant but His mercies are new every morning. If I focus on the river banks—hard, rocky, unchanging, I will find little to sing about, but if I look at the streams of mercies, rushing toward me, sparkling clear, fresh, then my songs will burst out, in praise to the Giver of those mercies. —Marilyn MacMullen

Who gave—a supreme sacrifice! Himself—an enormous cost! For our sins—a heavy burden! That He might deliver us—a great rescue! From this present evil age—a satanic environment! According to the will of God and our Father—a divine purpose! To whom be glory forever and ever—an eternal joy! —Jim Paul