The Nineteenth of January

UNDER HIS WINGS --- Genesis 8:9

"For the dove found no rest for the sole of her feet, and she returned unto him (Noah) into the ark; then he put forth his hand and took her, and pulled her in unto him into the ark." --- Genesis 8:9.

That dove-like spirit, communicated to the soul in regeneration, can find no rest for the soul of its foot, until it brings us to Jesus, who is the great ark of the covenant. Many, on their first awakening from sin, apply themselves to very hard works and rigorous duties, thereby expecting to to find rest for their wounded consciences.

But though the right and diligent use of all the means of grace is absolutely required, yet great care must be taken not to quiet ourselves by that only.

We should not place any confidence at all in our own doings, but only look for rest through the blood of Christ.

To be found in him, justified and accepted, would soon fill our hearts with peace, nay, encourage and enable us to do good works.

In vain the trembling conscience seeks
Some solid ground for rest;
With long despair the spirit breaks,
Till we apply to Christ.

Just as we see the lonesome dove
Bemoan her widow'd state;
Wand'ring she flies through all the grove
And mourns her loving mate.

Just so our thoughts from thing to thing
In restless circles rove;
Just as we droop and hang the wing
When Jesus hides his love.

While Jesus shines with quickening grace,
We sing and mount on high;
But if a frown becloud his face
We faint, and tire, and die.