17 AUGUST (PREACHED 16 AUGUST 1767)
Safety in trusting the Lord
‘The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe.’ Proverbs 29:25
SUGGESTED FURTHER READING: Daniel 3:1–30
Here is the remedy for the fear of man: Whoso putteth his trust in the LORD. If you have God and conscience on your side, none can prevail against him—but this implies knowledge and sincerity.
See how safe were:
(i) Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego—they would not worship [Daniel 3].
(ii) Daniel—he would pray [Daniel 6].
(iii) Yea Stephen—safe though slain [Acts 7].
Consider:
(i) God has all hearts in his hand.
(ii) He can give you better—even in temporals, but especially in spirituals.
(iii) Soon these things will be at an end and then, O to be owned by him.
How awful the case of those who endeavour to entice or affright believers from their duty. There is no safety but in putting your trust in the Lord.
No voice but thine can give me rest,
And bid my fears depart;
No love but thine can make me blest,
And satisfy my heart.
FOR MEDITATION: This is a confused world, and this seems to be an eventful period. But the Lord reigns, and he will manifest his wisdom by overruling apparent evil for real good. All things shall ultimately contribute to the enlargement and establishment of his church and kingdom. In the meantime, they who serve him have nothing to fear. He will enable them to acknowledge him here, and he will acknowledge them when he shall appear in glory.
John Newton to William Wilberforce, 4 August [1793]
SERMON: PROVERBS 29:25 [2/2]
Milo 