Too often we see life’s prose, but not its poetry. Too often we miss the inspiration of the songs. How manifold are our sorrows, but how manifold are His gifts!

Sin is here, but so is boundless grace; the devil is here, but so is Christ; the sword of judgment is crossed by Mercy’s scepter.

“Judgment and Mercy,” according to a lovely Jewish legend, “were sent forth together after the Fall to minister to the sinning but redeemed race,” and together they still act. One afflicts, the other heals; where one rends, the other plants a flower; one carves a wrinkle, the other kindles a smile; the rainbow succeeds the storm; the succoring wing covers our naked head from the glittering sword.

Gethsemane had its strengthening Angel!

God everlastingly sets Mercies over against Miseries! His interventions are never mistimed. He never comes at the wrong season. God has the affairs of the world in His hands. In your blackest crises the angel presences are doubtless in your neighborhood!

God never strikes the wrong note; never sings the wrong song. If God makes music, the music will prove medicinal. JOSEPH PEARCE

With mercy and with judgment My web of time He wove. And aye the dews of sorrow Were lustered with His love, I’ll bless the Hand that guided, I’ll bless the Heart that planned, When throned where glory dwelleth, In Immanuel’s land.

Deep waters crossed life’s pathway, The hedge of thorns was sharp; Now, these lie all behind me— Oh! For a well-tuned harp! Oh! to join Hallelujahs With your triumphant band, Who sing, where glory dwelleth In Immanuel’s land.

SAMUEL RUTHERFORD

Listen for the Night-songs of God!