JULY 18TH, 1940

JULY 18TH, 1940

BELOVED BROTHER, — ... I begin to feel more the limitations which come with advancing years; and I have not been able to move about much during the last twelve months. But the Lord still gives opportunity for a little service in a quiet way, and the measure which He permits is the one best suited to each particular vessel. So that one thanks God and takes courage.

I have thought much lately of the shaking in Haggai 2 as having directly in view the bringing of precious things to the house of God. God claims everything that is precious for Himself and for His house, but it appears that He has to shake everything in order to get it. May we not confidently expect that as a result of the present great shaking much that has divine value as God’s work will be secured for the adornment and service of His house?

Then the shaking and overthrowing at the end of the chapter are in view of Zerubbabel being made “as a signet”. That is, God has in mind to put the impress of Christ upon persons for His pleasure. It is good to bear in mind that this is what God is after, and He will make the general shaking further it. He will produce an impressionable state that will be prepared to be moulded under His chosen Signet. Having this in mind, we could not but be very sympathetic with the sorrows of suffering humanity, and this would establish a point of contact with souls which God would use for blessing. Surely we all desire at such a time as this to be serviceable vessels!

With much love in the Lord,

Yours affectionately in Him,

July 18th, 1940.