MUSINGS

FAITHFUL IN WHAT IS LEAST—In 2 Samuel 23, among the exploits of David’s mighty men, we have the record of Shammah, who was “faithful in that which is least” (Luke 19: 17). He defended, and delivered, a plot of lentils from Philistine attack. A very minor exploit to record in the history, we might think, but the Spirit of God does record it. That small area was part of the inheritance and therefore of the greatest value. What an encouragement this is, in a day of smallness, to be faithful in the protection and preservation of what has been committed to us. In the sight of God it is of the utmost value.

ASSEMBLY RELATIONS—At the end of Acts 4 we are told of Joseph “who had been surnamed Barnabas by the apostles (which is, being interpreted, Son of consolation)”. This is a choice reflection of the happy, holy relations prevailing among believers as the dispensation began. On the one hand there was in Barnabas the clear, attractive evidence of the work of God. On the other hand, there was thankful readiness among the apostles to recognise the work of God and to clothe it with an affectionate name, expressing their appreciation of it.

May we each be concerned to be marked among the brethren by the evidences of the work of God in our souls, and also to be ready to put a suitable name on what we see of the work of divine formation in our brethren. “Son of consolation” indicates the comfort and joy which formation after Christ can afford among the saints. Let it be our desire to be a source of consolation; never of trouble or concern.

FCM

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