God's Jewels by Arthur W. Pink (1886-1952)

"And they shall be Mine, says the Lord Almighty, in that day when I make up My jewels" (Mal. 3:17). To whom is God here referring? Who are the favored ones whom He terms His "jewels"? The previous verse tells us, "Then those who feared the Lord talked with each other, and the Lord listened and heard. A scroll of remembrance was written in his presence concerning those who feared the Lord and honored his name." A twofold description is there given by which the people of God may be identified: they have a reverential awe and profound respect of God's majesty and authority; they have a deep love and adoration for Him — evidenced by their thinking upon His name. It almost surprises one to learn that the great and self-sufficient God has "jewels," but our surprise increases to astonishment when we learn that these "jewels" are living creatures, and astonishment gives place to overwhelming amazement when we discover that these living creatures are fallen and depraved sinners redeemed from among the children of men. Truly, nothing but Divine grace would ever liken such wretched worms of the dust, unto precious stones. Yet that is the very thing which we find God doing in our text. It is not the unfallen angels, nor the holy seraphim and exalted cherubim who are spoken of as Jehovah's valued treasure, but lost and ruined sinners saved by amazing grace! Saints are likened unto wheat, fish, trees, stars, but here to "jewels"; the figure is a deeply interesting and instructive one. In Isaiah 55:8-9 we read, "For My thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways My ways, says the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways, and My thoughts than your thoughts." This is seen in the difference between human and Divine estimates of relative values. The world's standard of worth is very different from that of God's. Who are the immortals of human history? Caesar, Charlemagne, Napoleon: soldiers and warriors. Among statesmen and politicians we may mention Gladstone and Lincoln: among dramatists, Goethe and Shakespeare. Those were great in the eyes of earth; but who were great in the eyes of Heaven? For the most part they were unknown down here. They were humble and lowly, insignificant in the affairs of the world. Their names were never chronicled among men; but they were written in the Lamb's Book of Life!

It is noteworthy that our text is found in the book of Malachi, the last book of the Old Testament, which corresponds in many respects with the character of our days, as we seem to be nearing the end of the New Testament era. As the late C. H. Spurgeon pointed out, "These words were spoken in a very graceless age, when religion was peculiarly distasteful to men; when they scoffed at God's altar, and said of His service, 'What a weariness it is!' and scornfully asked, 'What profit is it that we have kept His ordinance?' Yet even those dark nights were not uncheered by bright stars. Though the house of national worship was often deserted, there were secret conventicles of those who 'feared the Lord,' and who 'spoke often one to another,' and our God, who regards quality more than quantity, had respect to these elect twos and threes. He 'hearkened and heard,' and so approved of that which He heard that He takes notes of it, and declared that He will publish it. 'A book of remembrance was written before Him for them that feared the Lord, and that thought upon His name'! Yes, and He valued so much these hidden ones that He called them His 'jewels,' and declared in the great day when He should gather together His retinue, His regalia, the peculiar treasure of kings, He would look upon these hidden ones as being more priceless than emeralds, rubies, or pearls."

So it is now when all godly testimony has broken down, when Christendom is in spiritual ruins. Many of God's dear children no longer have the privilege of church fellowship, for they dare not attend the modern "synagogues of Satan." But some of them still have the joy of meeting with little groups of fellow pilgrims, seeking to strengthen one another's hands as they journey through this wilderness scene. But there are others of God's "scattered" (John 11:52) saints, who are cut off from practically all real Christian fellowship, isolated ones, who have to mourn with David, "I watch, and am as a sparrow alone upon the housetop" (Psalm 102:7). Yet, though they can no longer "speak often one to another," they still have the holy and blessed privilege of thinking upon that Name which is above every name. These, too, shall be numbered among His precious treasure in the day when He shall "make up His jewels." Let us now endeavor to ponder this beautiful figure, and reverently enquire why the Lord has likened His people to "jewels."

1. Because of their inestimable VALUE in His sight.

This is an exceedingly hard thing for the Christian to really grasp, for he feels such a wretched and worthless creature in himself. That the Lord of Glory should deem him of any consequence is difficult to conceive, that He regards him as of great worth "passes knowledge." Yet so it is.

The Scriptures are very plain on this point. They declare, "For the Lord's portion is His people" (Deut. 32:9). They speak of, "The riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints" (Eph. 1:18). The Lord Jesus likens His Church unto "one pearl of great price," so that He "went and sold all that He had, and bought it" (Matt. 13:46).

From the remotest antiquity men have thought much of precious stones, and fabulous prices have been paid for them. With great ardor and toil, do men hunt after gold, but with even greater eagerness and labor will they seek the diamond. Hundreds of men will labor for a whole year in one of the diamond mines of Africa, and the entire result of their efforts may be held in the palm of your hand. Princes have been known to barter their estates in order to obtain some gem of peculiar brilliance and rare excellence. More desirable still are His saints in the esteem of the Lord Jesus. The value of a thing in the eyes of its possessor may be gauged by the price he was willing to pay for it. So valuable was the Church unto Christ that He gave Himself for it, and shed His "precious blood" to purchase it for Himself. Thus, the saints are likened unto "jewels" because of the great value which the Lord places upon them.

2. Because of their DIVINE CREATION.

"A jewel is the production of God. Diamonds have been burned, and other jewels have been resolved into their elements; but, after the most laborious attempts, no chemist has yet been able to make a diamond. Men can cut the Gordian knot, but they cannot tie it again. Lives have been wasted in attempts to produce precious stones, but the discovery is still unmade; they are the secret productions of God's own skill, and chemists fail to tell how they are produced, then though they know their elements. So the world thinks it knows what a Christian is, but it cannot make one. All the wit in the world put together could not find out the secret of the heaven-born life; and all the sacraments, vestments, priests, prayers, and paraphernalia of Popery cannot create a Christian. The Lord alone can create a child of grace, and a Christian is as much a miracle, as was Lazarus when he rose from the tomb. It is as great a work of Deity to create a believer as it is to create a world!" (C.H. Spurgeon)

This is the basic reason why the saints are precious unto the heart of the Lord Jesus: He regards and receives them as the Father's workmanship, the Father's gift unto Him. This comes out, again and again in that wondrous 17th Chapter of John: "I have manifested Your name unto the men which You gave Me out of the world: Yours they were, and You gave them Me" (v. 6). "I pray for them: I pray not for the world, but for those whom You have given Me; for they are Yours" (v. 9).

From all eternity Christ viewed them in the glass of God's decrees, and before the foundations of the earth were laid His "delights were with the sons of men" (Proverbs 8:31). Because the Father had, by His predestinating purpose, fashioned His elect as vessels "unto honor" (Romans 9:21) the Son prizes them as of infinite value.

3. Because of their RARITY.

It is this, chiefly, which constitutes the value of precious stones. Were they numerous and common, found in the soil of every man's garden, they would not be so costly, nor so highly esteemed. The number of perfect large diamonds, called paragons, is very small; and so we read, "Not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called" (1 Cor. 1:26). Possibly the disparity between diamonds and the pebbles of the brook is no greater than that which exists, numerically, between the regenerate and the unregenerate. The Lord Jesus plainly declared that God's flock is only a "little" one (Luke 12:32), and that few find that narrow way that leads unto Life (Matt. 7:14). God had never likened His people unto "jewels" had they been nearly so numerous as is now popularly supposed.

4. Because of their BEAUTY.

The jewel is prized for its luster. It is the brilliance of the gem which, in a great measure, is the evidence and test of its value. It is said that the colors of jewels are the brightest known, and are the nearest approaches to the rays of the solar spectrum that have yet been discovered. See how the diamond flashes and sparkles! And yet its beauty and brilliance are not so much inherent. Examine it in a dark room, and it emits no radiance. It is simply a reflector: its glory is borrowed from the light. So it is with the saint: his loveliness is a loveliness which has been placed upon him, imputed to him. "I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for He has clothed me with the garments of salvation, He has covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decks himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels" (Isaiah 61:10). It is very blessed to develop this aspect of our subject. To His disciples the Lord Jesus said, "You are the light of the world" (Matt. 5:14), and why are they so? Because He could say "I am the light of the world" (John 8:12). The light of a Christian is a reflected one. That supplies the key to that little understood exhortation, "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven" (Matt. 5:16): "so shine" that Christ gets all the glory; "so shine" that we make it clear and plain to all that whatever goodness or righteousness there is in us, and whatever fruits are produced by us, all is from Christ as the Root. "For you were once darkness, but now are you light in the Lord" (Eph. 5:8)—yes "in the Lord"!

5. Because of their VARIETY.

Precious stones vary considerably both in color and in size, kind and value, brilliance and worth. If order is Heaven's first law, variety is certainly its second, for there is no uniformity in the ways and works of God, though there is a blessed underlying unity. So it is among gems, all are valuable, but all are not the same. There is the clear diamond, the red ruby, the green emerald, the blue sapphire, the violet amethyst. Probably there is not a single ray of the spectrum which is not reflected by some of them. So it is among the saints. All are God's children, all bear the marks of the Divine "workmanship" (Eph. 2:10), all are equally precious to Christ, but all are not alike. Beautifully was this typified of old in the breastplate of Israel's high priest: twelve different precious stones adorned it, representing the tribes of Israel. No two of these gems were alike, but all were equally near to Aaron's heart!

This brings before us an important aspect of the truth which we do well to ponder. What difference we perceive between Thomas and John, between Peter and Paul; yet all were the Apostles of Christ. So it is now among the saints: there is almost endless variety in their capacities, their talents, their growth, the varying graces which they manifest. No one gem reflects all the colors of the spectrum, and no one believer exhibits all the excellencies of Christ.

As the varied rays of the spectrum are distributed among jewels, so the varied excellencies of Christ are distributed among His people: one is conspicuous for meekness, another for courage; one for gentleness, another for firmness; one for patience, another for love. God's people are not all alike, and never will be; and all attempts at uniformity must fail. But it matters little whether we shine with the sapphire's blue, or the emerald's green, or the ruby's red—so long as we are the Lord's on the Day when He makes up His jewels.

6. Because of their DURABILITY.

Precious stones are one of the very few things in this world which, notwithstanding the flight of time, neither decay nor die; and thus do they strikingly intimate in the natural realm, that eternal life which pertains to the spiritual world. Diamonds are exceedingly hard: many of them will cut glass, while they cannot be scratched with the sharpest file. Many of them will be uninjured by the most potent acid; they will endure the test of fire; they are practically imperishable. In this also they resemble the Christian, who has within him a principle which is incorruptible, undefiled, and destined to endure forever. The world has often tried to destroy God's people, but all their efforts to do so have been futile. The empty professor, the sham gem, is like a "paste" diamond: it quickly succumbs to trial; but the genuine child of God endures to the end, and shall reign with Christ forever and ever.

7. Because of their HISTORY.

This is very striking indeed, and a separate sermon might well be devoted to enlarging thereon. First, think of their lowly origin. Trees grow in parks, and flowers in the garden—but jewels are discovered in the mud and mire of earth. Even the lovely pearl is housed in the rough and unsightly shell of the oyster; while diamonds are found in the deep mines, in the depths of the earth.

What a parable and picture of the joint-heirs with Christ in their natural state! each of which has to own, "Behold, I was shaped in iniquity, and in sin did my mother conceive me" (Psalm 51:5). Well did God say to Israel of old, "Look unto the rock whence you are hewn, and to the hole of the pit whence you are dug" (Isaiah 51:1). O the lowly origin of the Christian: "He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock" (Psalm 40:2).

Second, consider the cutting of them. As the precious gem has been located and removed from its original position, the skillful fingers of the lapidary must work upon it. It has to be cut into a proper shape and many facets given to it, for in its original state it is rough and unsymmetrical. So it is with the elect of God. In their natural state they are "darkness" and quite incapable of reflecting the Light. But the Divine Lapidary, the Holy Spirit, after having sought them out, regenerates them.

And what is the instrument He employs in this work? Why, the Word of God, which is "living, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit" (Heb. 4:12). There is the spiritual cutting of God's "jewels." The "sword of the Spirit" (Eph. 6:17) enters the conscience, searches the heart—and cuts down pride, self-will, and self-righteousness.

Third, consider the polishing of them. This also forms an important part of the lapidary's work: he must smooth down the rough edges, and polish each facet so that it may sparkle the more gloriously; and often that is a long and tedious process. Thus it is in the history of the Christian. God does not take him to Glory the moment he is regenerated. No, though a spiritual life has been communicated to him, he needs to pass through many and varied experiences before he is ripe and ready for Heaven. Ah, does not the spiritual reader perceive what we now have in mind? The reason you are still left in this world is because the Spirit has not yet finished the work of polishing your soul; you are not yet ready to be placed among the crown-jewels of the King. Here, then, is a comforting and heartening thought: let us seek to remind ourselves when passing through fiery trials, when smarting under chastisement—that it is part of the polishing process!

8. Because of their glorious DESTINY.

"You will be a glorious crown in the Lord’s hand, and a royal diadem in the palm of your God" (Isaiah 62:3). What marvelous words are these—for faith and hope to lay hold of, for our feeble intellects cannot grasp them! Wondrous is it to think of rough stones, which first look like small pebbles, being found in the mud and mire of earth; then cut and polished until they scintillate with a brilliancy surpassing any earthly object, and being given an honored place in the diadem of a monarch. But infinitely more wonderful is it that poor lost sinners, saved by sovereign grace, should be among the crown-jewels of the Son of God. But He will yet "present us faultless before the presence of His glory with exceeding joy" (Jude 24). Then shall He say to the Father, "The glory which You gave Me I have given them" (John 17:22). Then shall be fulfilled that word, "When He shall come to be glorified in His saints, and to be admired in all them that believe" (2 Thess. 1:10). "And they shall be Mine, says the Lord Almighty, in that day when I make up My jewels" (Mal. 3:17). That Day has not yet arrived, but it is not far distant: "For yet a little while, and He who shall come will come, and will not tarry" (Heb. 10:37). What is meant by "When I make up My jewels"? Is it not when the complete number of His redeemed are regenerated and polished? Is it not when He shall descend from Heaven with a shout, resurrect the sleeping saints and transform the living ones and rapture them together, so that we shall "ever be with the Lord" (1 Thess. 4:16, 17): "make up" (Mal. 3:17), "caught up" (1 Thess. 4:17)! One once wrote: "Earthly jewels sometimes get separated from their owner, Christ's jewels never: 'For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life . . . nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord' (Romans 8:38, 39). Earthly jewels are sometimes lost — Christ's jewels never: 'I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of My hand' (John 10:28). Earthly jewels are sometimes stolen — Christ's jewels never: 'in Heaven, where neither moth nor rust does corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal' (Matt. 6:20)."

Are you sure that you are one of Christ's jewels? Then seek to shine for Him now.

Raising the Standard: Kindness Is Returning Good For Evil

"Therefore if thine enemy hunger, feed him; if he thirst, give him drink: for in so doing thou shalt heap coals of fire on his head. Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good." ~ Romans 12:20-21

Living Lessons on Kindness:

The kindness of returning good for evil is totally opposite to our natural inclinations. Therefore, this type of kindness can only be carried out by an act of faith in God's Word. Unexpected rewards are waiting for a person who practices it. Such was the case when a rival used every opportunity to belittle and ridicule one who was envied. The anguish and personal distress that this continual attack produced forced the victim to make an amazing vow that brought great benefit to many people including the rival.

The most painful enemies are usually those who were closest to u. Their unexpected attacks are often allowed by God to bring us to the place of crying out to Him. Who greatly benefited God's people by using a difficult family conflict as motivation to make a significant covenant with the Lord? Hannah.

How Is Returning Good for Evil Illustrated in Scripture?

The contrasting lives of two people are woven together into one of the most unique and significant accounts in Scripture. Both of them knew the Lord and wanted to please Him. Both of them had painful relationships within their own families. Each was being mocked and tormented day after day and year after year. In each family God desired to do a special work through the children. But that would require both of these individuals cry out to God and give to Him that which they cherished the most. At this point the responses and results in the lives of these two individuals became remarkably different. One day the younger of the two traveled to the city of the older. Both of them met for the first time in the house of the Lord. It was here that the younger set the example that the older should have followed. With deep agony of soul this young victim of continual reviling silently cried out to the Lord and then entered into a vow that was to have great significance in the days to come. The sincerity of this act of worship was misunderstood by the older individual and further abuse came in the form of a false accusation. However, the younger gave a kind response and gained the assurance that God had heard her prayer. Several years later, the younger was able to return good for the older's insulting remark. The younger brought a very special gift to the older. That gift became a continual encouragement to him, but also a constant reminder that he should follow the younger's example. he refused to do so. As a result, the nation under his spiritual leadership suffered a disastrous military defeat, and the enemy captured the ark of God's glory. Through that battle the sons whom he should have consecrated to God were killed, and he fell to his death. The example he had refused to follow was that of Hannah, a young wife, who after years of torment from a jealous and competing wife, cried out to the Lord for a son. The son that God gave became her gift back to the Lord. Her son, Samuel, served Eli, the high priest who had falsely accused her of being drunk when she prayed in anguish for a son. Samuel also became a great gift to the nation of Israel. He restored the spiritual strength of the people and led the armies to victory. He was his mother's means of returning good for evil, and God crowned his ministry by returning to the nation the treasured ark of His glory. [From 1 Samuel 1-6]

What Was the Full Significance of Hanna's Vow?

Hannah desperately desired a son. She knew that the "Lord of Hosts" who controlled the heavenly powers could also take away her barrenness. She asked that He look on her, remember her, and give her a son. If God granted her request, Hannah promised two things in return. "...I will give him unto the Lord all the days of his life, and there shall no razor come upon his head." (1 Samuel 1:11). As a Levite, Hannah's son would be required to serve periodically at the tabernacle. But Hannah was committing her son to serve for his entire life. She second part of her promise was the Nazarite vow. This commitment included totally abstaining from whine and all intoxicating drink, letting his hair grow, and avoiding defilement by corpses. (See Numbers 6.) The positive nature of these prohibitions lies in the special devotion and consecration to the Lord which they signify. Abstinence from intoxicating drink maintained clearness of mind and avoided the danger of sensual indulgences which hinder communication with God. Long hair identified the Nazarite as one particularly set apart from the affairs of life and separated to the work of God. Avoiding contact with the dead symbolized purity from moral defilement and complete dedication to the living God. Such devotion and commitment would be required from Hannah's son, who was to perform such an important function in the nation.

Why Was Eli so Quick to Accuse Hannah?

The high priest was probably trying to prevent improper or disrespectful activity in the vicinity of the tabernacle. When He observed Hannah moving her lips without speaking aloud, he assumed the worst and accused her of drunkenness. It is probable that Eli had seen drunken people in the tabernacle area, especially during the annual feasts. What had been intended as a time of worship celebration, and joy had degenerated into occasions for overindulgence and sensuality. Eli's own sons, Hophni and Phinehas, were guilty in this area. (See 1 Samuel 2:13-16, 22.) Eli acknowledged his mistake, however, when Hannah explained her situation. "Then Eli answered and said, Go in peace; and the God of Israel grant thee thy petition that thou hast asked of him" (1 Samuel 1:17).

What Was Hannah's Real Need?

Hannah was anxious, grieved, and bitter in spirit. Elkanah believed that Hannah needed to know how much he loved and appreciated her. (See 1 Samuel 1:8.) Peninnah felt that her rival was loved too much and needed to be humbled. (See 1 Samuel 1:4-6.) Eli thought that she had had too much to drink. (See 1 Samuel 1:14.) Hannah believed that the solution was a son. (See 1 Samuel 1:11.) What proved to be the most joyful and satisfying event in her life, however, was not receiving the gift of a son, but giving him back to the Lord. It was on the occasion of bringing Samuel back to the tabernacle that Hannah's heart was bursting with praise and adoration. She was as full of joy as she had been of grief. (See 1 Samuel 1:1-10.) Hannah's true need was for something of worth to Give to God. Her real joy came not from receiving but from giving.

Illustrated in the World of Nature:

Pelicans are among the largest birds in the world. Their body length, including the bill, may extend four to six feet. Their wing spread can be from five to ten feet, and an individual bird can weigh from six to twenty-five pounds. There are seven species of pelicans, the most widely known being the brown pelican of the Atlantic, Gulf, and the Pacific coasts. The only food that the brown pelican eats is fish. After World War I, Gulf fishermen complained that pelicans were eating too many fish and reducing the size of their catch. Studies have shown that the pelican eats fish that have little, if any commercial value.

How Is Returning Good for Evil Illustrated in the World of Nature?

In a desolate marshy inlet, a three day watch was coming to an end. Both feet of a huge waterfowl were cupped around two eggs which he had been keeping warm. When his mate arrived, he stepped off the nest, stretched out his seven foot wings, and climbed into the morning breeze. For three days he had not eaten; now he was able to take care of his hunger by using his God-given equipment to catch fish. He flew to an altitude of seventy feet; there he spotted a fish just below the surface of the water. The giant bird wheeled in flight and began to dive. With wings and legs outstretched, he looked very awkward as he descended. The awkwardness was intensified as he twisted his body; yet he always kept his eyes fixed on the target. Then, less than a foot above the water, he quickly folded back his wings, stretched his feet beneath his tail, thrust his neck forward, and parted the waters with a mighty splash. Beneath the surface he opened his long bill, and his pouch quickly filled with two and a half gallons of water, plus his fish. The skin of his pouch was stretched so tightly that the blood vessels could be seen. He bobbed to the surface and began to drain water from his pouch, being careful to contain the fish. Just then a screaming gull flew down and landed on the head of this huge bird. The gull looked small by comparison. The crafty gull had been waiting for just this moment. It hoped back and forth to keep its balance and slowly worked its way onto the long bill while his host finished draining the salt water from his pouch. Then, in one quick, bold move the thieving sea gull grabbed the fish out of the pouch and with a quick toss of its head flipped it into the air and swallowed it. Then it turned, stepped in the face of its provider, and flew into the air. With four quick beats the great bird lifted himself out of the water and followed the thief. As he reached an altitude of the gull, he again wheeled and dove. The gull screamed and darted aside, but the great bird's target was not the gull; he had spotted a school of fish. His second dive produced more fish. Once again the sea gull picked off one for itself. The patient provider swallowed the rest and flew back to its nest. By returning good for evil, the pelican was rewarded in at least two ways. First, he increased his fish catching skills. Second, he was prepared for the gentle and generous care of his own young. When they hatched, they would be picking fish out of his pouch for thee months!

The Characteristics of the Pelican in Scripture:

The pelican provides ample illustrations of Christ's relationship to the church and our work as Christians. Just as the male pelican selects the nesting site and then allows for a long courtship, so Christ is making preparations for the Church. "...I go to prepare a place for you" (John 14:2). The tender care the pelican gives its young is a picture not only of Christ's care of the Church, but of the nurture which parents must give to their children. (See Ephesians 6:4.) Just as the pelican could not have successful hatches without regular fasting, so Christ emphasized the importance of fasting for the success of Christians.

"...When ye fast...thy Father, with seeth in secret, shall reward thee openly" ~ Matthew 6:16, 18

The unusual abilities of the pelican to catch fish attracts birds that rob him. His response to them is an illustration of the patient kindness which Christians should have toward those who wrong them.

"Not rendering evil for evil... but contrariwise blessing..." ~ 1 Peter 3:9

The silent loneliness of the pelican in the wilderness marshes was referred to by David.

"I am like a pelican of the wilderness..." ~ Psalm 102:6

The bowing of pelican mates to each other at their nesting site is a picture of the honor that should exist between husband and wife. (See Ephesians 5:22-25.)

Raising the Standard: Kindness Is Giving Honor To Whom Honor Is Due

"Honour thy father and thy mother..." ~ Deuteronomy 5:16

"Be kindly affectioned on to another with brotherly love; in honour of preferring one another." ~ Romans 12:10

"...'[If] one member be honoured, all the members rejoice with it." ~ 1 Corinthians 12:26

Living Lessons on Kindness From the Pages of Scripture:

The world says, "the good that men do is soon forgotten, the evil lives on forever." God says, "The memory of the just is blessed but the name of the wicked shall rot" (Proverbs 10"7). By honoring the memory of those who benefited our lives, we are performing a kindness that fulfills an important purpose of the Lord. Only after the death of a righteous person did another person fully appreciate the benefits that had been received. It was then that the memory of that righteous person was properly honored. Who was the man who did not fully understand or appreciate what he had received until after the giver was dead? It was then that he properly honored his memory. Nicodemus.

How is Giving Honor to Whom Honor is Due Illustrated in Scripture?

The shocking event that caused other men to flee in fear caused him to advance in boldness. What brought discouragement to others brought confidence and reassurance to him. He was a ruler. It was his job to know what was taking place among his people, so when he began to hear alarming reports of a countermovement in his country, he decided to investigate. From behind the scenes, he gathered all the information he could. The more he learned, the more baffled and confused he became. Facts just did not add up in his mind. He concluded that his next step must be a private meeting with the movement's leader. But how could he get to him? During the day the leader was constantly surrounded by hostile critics and zealous followers. He concluded that the best time would be at night. Arrangements were made, and when the night arrived, he was present with carefully thought out questions. No sooner had the conversation begun than the one whom he was questioning made an unusual statement and an even more unusual analogy. The analogy related to an event which had taken place in their nation's history many years earlier. Thousands of poisonous snakes had come in and bitten the people. When the victims cried out to God, He commanded Moses to make a brass snake and nail it on a pole. Then all those who believed the Word of God were to go outside the camp and look at that snake. Those who obeyed were healed. The baffled ruler slipped out into the darkness of that night still pondering what he had heard. He continued to listen and watch and think. Then one day it all became clear. The one who gave him that analogy was nailed to a wooden cross just as the serpent was nailed to the pole. Now it was opportunity to fulfill that analogy. He got up, walked outside the city, and looked upon Jesus, fully believing the Word of God. Then, Nicodemus honored Christ by providing one hundred pounds of myrrh and aloes for His burial. [From John 3:1-21; 19:16-40]

Why Did Nicodemus Come to Jesus at Night?

The Pharisee's decision to visit Jesus during the evening may have been motivated simply by caution and convenience. Nicodemus was an influential leader. People looked to him for advice and counsel in religious matters. He wanted to know what Jesus was teaching to compare it to the traditional teaching of the scribes. He felt that this could best be accomplished by means of a private interview, away from the atmosphere of hostile critics and zealous followers. Furthermore, it was almost impossible to find time to meet with the Lord during the day. Because of His ministry of healing, Jesus was besieged by crowds. A quiet, uninterrupted discussion during the evening hours, possibly in the home of one of the disciples, would have been ideal for Nicodemus's purpose.

Who Did Nicodemus Think Jesus Was at First?

Nicodemus thought Jesus was a prophet like Moses, Joshua, Elijah, and Elisha. "...Rabbi, we know that thou art a teacher come from God: for no man can do these miracles that thou doest, except God be with him" (John 3:2). Nicodemus knew that miracles in his nation's history were relatively rare. Most had occurred during two periods --- the first during Israel's deliverance from Egypt and their occupation of Canaan, the second during a time of great apostasy under the reign of Ahab. Throughout both eras, God used miracles to warn the wicked and to encourage the faithful. Now Jesus performed signs and wonders of the same nature as these former men of God, and Nicodemus was perceptive enough to recognize this. It is significant that he was open to the truth and had not hardened his heart like some of his fellow Pharisees who had attributed Jesus' works to Beelzebub, the prince of the devils. (See Matthew 12:22-24.) To Nicodemus, Jesus was a man from God, but He was still only a man.

Why Did Nicodemus Become So Bold After the Lord's Death?

It is interesting that the same event which caused the Lord's disciples to desert and deny Him, to become discouraged and to cower in fear behind closed doors, had just the opposite effect on Nicodemus. Why did he take no thought for his reputation, position, or wealth to assist in the burial of Jesus? The disciples viewed the crucifixion as a catastrophe, ending their cause and future hopes. Nicodemus was stirred to action by the same event. Nicodemus had believed that Jesus was a prophet sent by God. Jesus had told him, "And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up: That whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have eternal life" (John 3:14-15). When Nicodemus saw Jesus lifted up on the cross, he remembered those words. This story which Nicodemus knew so well took on new meaning. Jesus was not just a prophet, He was the Suffering Servant predicted by Isaiah. He was more than a prophet, He was his Redeemer.

Illustrated in the World of Nature:

There are two kinds of lemmings --- the common and the collared. Only collard lemmings turn white in the winter. The arctic lemming of North America is one of several collared varieties. It is clearly distinguished from the common lemming by a golden collar that contrasts with its chestnut pelt. Lemmings are plump little animals related to the mouse. They are from four to five inches long including their stubby tails. They eat tremendous amounts of food and carry out emigrations every three to four years.

How Are the Consequences of Unkindness Illustrated in the World of Nature?

Shrill hissing and sharp, snapping teeth served as a warning to either move or get bitten. These ominous sounds did not come from some attacking predator. They came from a neighbor --- one of his own kind. This fellow lemming could have had plenty to eat if he would just move to a different level on the mountainous terrain. But the intruder wanted what he saw at that moment and was willing to fight for it. Another his was given and then sharp teeth flashed in the cold arctic air --- the defender was bitten. The wounded lemming was forced to leave the safety of his nest and feeding ground and retreat to unfamiliar territory. There he encountered more hissing and snapping from other lemmings who had also been forced to abandon their nests. After receiving several more wounds, he fled down the mountainside. Soon many others followed him and forced him to move again. This continued until one day he found himself at the edge of a high cliff overlooking a mountain river. His attempt to retrace his steps was prevented by fellow lemmings. Panic gripped him as he found himself being pushed over the precipice. Down he went, rolling, bouncing, and tumbling into the swirling water below! He surfaced and swam frantically to the bank. As he crawled up on the shore, hundreds more followed him. Soon their ranks were swelled with converging migrations of other lemmings. Hissing and biting continued among them as new destruction came upon them. Caribou used their sharp hooves to trample many, while they bit and swallowed others whole. The crowded conditions produced new hazards to their survival as an epidemic of "lemming fever" broke out among them, decimating their ranks. Then hungry bears, attracted to the hordes, devoured as many lemmings as they could. One destruction after another came as the contentious throng continued slowly down the mountainside. The more they traveled together, the more aggressive they became. Noisy fights broke out among them. Suddenly, the lemming halted. Before him was a large body of water; he was a good swimmer, but the choppy waves signaled danger. Forced by the press of the crowd, he plunged in --- and there was no turning back. Squabbles ended as each one swam desperately forward. Some were able to swim farther than others, but none reached the other shore. This destruction is a vivid illustration of the consequences of unkindness.

The Characteristics of the Arctic Lemming in Scripture:

The voracious appetite and irritable nature of the lemming provide a vivid illustration of what happens among people who sacrifice kindness for personal gain.

"From whence com wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even if your lusts that war in your members?" ~ James 4:1

Lemmings fight each other to feed themselves. Scripture warns against such behavior among Christians.

"But if ye bite and devour one another, take heed that ye be not consumed one of another" ~ Galatians 5:15

In the beginning, mankind tended to become like lemmings by congregating in cities rather than scattering throughout the world.

"So the Lord scattered them abroad from thence upon the face of all the earth: and they left off to build the city" ~ Genesis 11:8

The dangers of the herd instinct among the lemmings is a precise illustration of the dangers of joining a demonstration against authority. (See Exodus 23:2.) The amazing march of the lemmings to destruction is a tragic illustration of crowd pressure among unbelievers.

"Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat" ~ Matthew 7:13

Raising the Standard: Kindness Is Bringing Joy Out Of Sorrow

"I have not hid thy righteousness within my heart; I have declared thy faithfulness and thy salvation: I have not concealed thy lovingkindness and thy truth from the great congregation." ~ Psalm 40:10

Living Lessons on Kindness:

The loss of a loved one or the depletion of financial resources can produce bitterness. These same circumstances can also open up a life to the amazing potential of daily dependence upon our heavenly Father. One believer who had suffered the loss of a partner and financial provisions responded correctly and experienced unusual freedom and security. The outward evidence of trust in God's lovingkindness was so unusual that it brought public acclaim and inspired untold numbers of other believers to depend upon God's faithfulness. Who demonstrated the principle that kindness in giving is not measured by how much is given? The poor widow.

How Is Bringing Joy Out of Sorrow Illustrated in Scripture?

A spirit of celebration filled the city as thousands of men and their sons converged upon the temple area from all parts of the land. They were there to take part in the week long feast of unleavened bread. Happy reunions took place among friends who had not seen each other for several months. Music echoed over the hillsides as worshipers ascended to the city. the baaing of sheep and lowing of cattle being led to the temple added to the special sounds of the day. While all this was taking place, one person stood alone, watching as the people passed. She noticed the items which men and their sons had brought for the presentation of sacrificial gifts. This was one of the highlights of the feast. As she observed the jubilant crowds, she realized that she had neither father, son, husband, nor gift. Since the death of her husband, times had been difficult for her. She barely had enough money for food. The sum total of all her money could buy only an eighth of a loaf of bread! She followed the crowds at the temple, giving a warm smile to all who met her eyes. As she walked, there was much to think about. The God whom she worshiped was the same God whom Elisha served. God worked through Elisha to take care of a widow and her son for many months when she gave her last bit of food to him. Then there was the example of Anna, who had gone throughout the city thirty-three years earlier proclaiming that the Messiah had been born and that she had seen him with her own eyes. Anna was also a widow. For eighty-five years she had trusted the Lord for her provisions through fasting and prayer. What a beautiful example she was! Suddenly this woman knew what she would do. She increased her step and headed for the east side of the temple area. As the entered the court of the women, the crowds were especially large3. She walked over and stood in one of the lines. The line slowly moved toward a box with a trumpet shaped mouth. Those in front of her contributed valuable silver and bronze coins. Some gave bags of money. As she neared the box, she reached out her hand and threw in the money that was in it --- two little coins. They were all she had. As she turned to walk away, she noticed a man who had been watching those giving. He seemed encouraged by her gift. He called together his disciples and in a rich, clear voice she heard Him say. "Truly I say to you, this poor widow has given more than all who have given to the treasury. For they gave out of their abundance, but she out of her want gave all that she had!" Out of her sorrow and poverty this poor widow brought joy to the heart of Jesus by illustrating the true meaning of sacrificial giving [From Mark 12:41-44; and Luke 2:36-38]

How Did the Scribes "Devour Widows' Houses"?

The scribes, responsible for the teaching of God's Word, were themselves living contrary to the Law's demands. When Jesus accused them of devouring the houses of widows, He referred to their destructive teaching and possibly to their actions as well. The Law of God was sensitive to the greater needs of widows. As God's representatives, the leaders of Israel were to protect the legal rights of widows and to make sure that they were fed and clothed. (See Deuteronomy 10:17-18.) Grapes, grain, and olives were to be available for them to glean. (See Deuteronomy 24:19-21.) Widows were also to be included in the third year tithe. (See Deuteronomy 14:28-29.) But the teaching of the scribes provided ways for hard hearted people to evade these merciful commands. For instance, the scribes taught that a son could vow to devote to God everything he would otherwise have used to support his mother. The son gained the praise of men while his mother lived in poverty. (See Matthew 15:3-9.) The famous rabbi, Hillel, devised a "legal" way to evade the Law's command to cancel debts during the Sabbatical year. One tragic result of this scheme was to deprive widows who were in debt of the ownership of their houses. The Lord may also have been referring to the scribe's habit of taking advantage of the hospitality of people of limited means. Since it was technically forbidden to accept remuneration for their teaching, the scribes themselves were often poor. Yet they were not reluctant to accept contributions from those who were least able to give.

What Was the Value of the Poor Widow's Offering?

In the eyes of men, her offering was practically worthless. We know that "...she threw in two mites, which made a farthing" (Mark 12:42). Jerusalem's fund of food for transients set the daily ration at no less than the equivalent of one loaf of bread. At that time a loaf was worth a twelfth of a denarius, or about sixteen mites. Thus, the entire wealth of the poor widow was one-eighth of a loaf of bread, one-eighth he daily ration of a beggar. But her offering was of inestimable worth in the eyes of God. The Lord saw in her heart genuine love and total trust in her faithful Provider. He measured her offering not by what she gave, but by what she kept for herself.

For What Purpose Was the Widow's Offering Used?

Her offering provided for the physical functioning of the temple. Four of the thirteen collection boxes were freewill offerings. The others were for tribute money. The widow's two mites fell far short of the required half-shekel tribute amount. Thus, you can assume she was presenting the customary freewill offering given in association with the Feast of Unleavened Bread. The proceeds from the four freewill boxes were designated for wood, incense, temple decorations, and burnt offerings. These represented the major expenses of the temple. It is significant that even though the chief priests and temple leaders were corrupt at that time, the Lord still praised the widow for contributing to the temple's support. Although some had turned the temple into a den of thieves, it was still considered by the Lord to be the house of prayer. (See Luke 19:46.)

Illustrated in the World of Nature:

The life cycle of the monarch butterfly has four distinct stages: egg, caterpillar, pupa, and adult. Each stage is a separate and distinct living creature. But it is during the pupa stage that the caterpillar undergoes a radical metamorphosis, which changes it into a butterfly. Although scientists understood much about this complex metamorphosis, for many years they did not know what happened to the monarch during the winter months. It was not until the mid-1970's that the monarchs were tracked to their wintering grounds in central Mexico. They had flown distances in excess of 2,5000 miles during their short lifetimes.

How Is the Benefit of Bitter Experiences Illustrated in the World of Nature?

A beautifully colored monarch butterfly felt itself being jerked from the sky by a hungry predator which seemed to come out of nowhere. Its blue crested captor flew up to its nest. The stunned monarch was then released a few inches from three hungry mouths that were open wide, demanding to be fed. Just then the mate of the blue jay arrived and dropped a large juicy grasshopper at the feet of its feeding young. Immediately, the blue jay tore apart the grasshopper and poked the bits and pieces into each hungry mouth. Then it looked around for additional food. The jay that brought in the monarch watched in total surprise as its more mature mate stepped over to the monarch, picked him up and dropped him out of the nest. The uninjured monarch flew away to the fragrant flowers of the field below. This unexpected freedom was the result of what the monarch experienced when he was young. During his caterpillar stage, the bitter leaves of a poisonous plant was the only food available to him. Amazingly, he was not damaged by the toxins in the plant. However, they would remain in his system for the rest of his life. It was this very diet that now saved him from the hungry mouths of the blue jays. When the blue jay saw the monarch, the jay was immediately reminded of the first and last monarch that it had ever caught. Hoping to satisfy its hunger, the blue jay had swallowed a monarch in midair. Within a few minutes the blue jay became sick; its stomach seemed to be twisting and turning inside out. The pain and discomfort became worse and worse until the jay was finally gripped with convulsions. It vomited out the remains of the butterfly along with the rest of the day's catch. Once the butterfly was out of its stomach, the blue jay had instant relief. It had never experienced anything like this before and would never choose to do so again. Thereafter, in its search for food, the blue jay avoided anything that looked like a monarch. Not only could monarchs fly by this blue jay without harm, but viceroy butterflies could also carry on in their work in safety. The viceroy butterflies had never eaten the poisonous leaves of the milkweed plant. However, they had orange and black markings similar to a monarch butterfly. Thus, the bitter diet of the monarch's early days not only saved its own life but kindly benefited the lives of other butterflies.

The Characteristics of the Monarch Butterfly in Scripture:

The unique ability of the monarch butterfly to tolerate the toxins of the milkweed plant provides a picture of the need for Christians to endure the bitterness of discipline, trial, and persecution. The monarch butterfly absorbs bitter toxins during its early development, which protects its life when it matures. Similarly, God allows harsh experiences in our youth. "It is good for a man that he bear the yoke in his youth...He giveth his cheek to him that smiteth him...For the Lord will not cast off for ever" (Lamentations 3:27; 30-31).

"But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you" ~ 1 Peter 5:10

More importantly, bitter experiences help to conform us to the image of Christ.

"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. For whom he did foreknow, he did also predestinate to be conformed to the image of his Son..." ~ Romans 8:28-29

Perhaps the most spectacular characteristic of the butterfly is that it illustrates conformity to Christ as its transformation from caterpillar to butterfly. In going through its metamorphosis, it not only illustrates the truth of Christ's resurrection, but also the principle of the birth, death, and fulfillment of a vision. "It is sown in dishonor; it is raised in glory..." (1 Corinthians 15:43).

Raising the Standard: Kindness Is Using A Gift To Show The Worth Of A Person

The purpose of all giving must be to demonstrate your love for Christ. For "though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity [love], it profiteth me nothing" (1 Corinthians 13:3). When someone with the gift of giving sees Christ as the real recipient of his gifts, he or she is motivated to meet needs which other overlook.

"...Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me." ~ Matthew 25:40

"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." ~ Romans 5:8

Living Lessons on Kindness From the Pages of Scripture:

A warm, loving smile is a precious gift to a lonely person, and precise words, properly spoken, are often more appreciated than silver or gold. "A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver" (Proverbs 25:11). Such kindnesses are usually learned during times of personal suffering. In those times God gives comfort and counsel which can then be passed on to others in their times of trouble. One who received and gave comfort during a time of deep sorrow illustrates for us the importance of using these gifts to show the worth of a person. An act of kindness is far more than meeting a physical need. It is emphasizing the worth of a person. It is honoring God's design for a life. Who was one that gave such an honor to Christ when He needed it most? Mary Magdalene at the foot of the cross.

How Is Strengthening the heart of a Discouraged Person Illustrated in Scripture?

After His arrest in the middle of the night, Jesus was brought before the Sanhedrin, the Jewish supreme court. During questioning by the high priest, a soldier struck Jesus across the face. The palace guards then blindfolded Him and taunted Him to identify them as each one passed by, spitting on Him and striking Him in the face. By the next morning, Jesus was battered, bruised, dehydrated, and exhausted from a sleepless night. He was taken to the Roman fortress and brought before an angry mob. They shouted, Crucify Him!" Pilate had Him beaten. The heavy thongs of the whip cut through the skin of His back and soon turned it into a mass of torn, bleeding tissue. The Roman soldiers compounded His torment by throwing a cloak over his lacerated back and by mocking Him. Sharp thorns were pressed into His scalp, producing copious bleeding. The cloak was then ripped off, reopening His wounds, and the heavy beam of the cross was placed on His bleeding shoulder. The grim procession slowly proceeded toward the execution site. At Golgotha, large, wrought iron nails were driven through His wrists and deep into the beam. While hanging on the cross, the searing agony of the nails tore through the nerves of the skin. Great waves of cramps swept over His muscles, knotting them in deep, relentless, throbbing pain. For hours, this limitless torture continued. Soon another agony began a crushing pain deep within His chest. His compressed heart struggled to pump thick, sluggish blood through His veins. His tortured lungs made frantic efforts to gasp in small gulps of air. His dehydrated body sent its message screaming to His brain, and He cried out, "I thirst!" He looked down from the cross, and in that dreadful hour He received something more refreshing than a drink of water --- a look of reassurance from one who believed in Him and who was committed to Him regardless of what others thought of Him. This friend who had been delivered from the bondage of tormenting spirits honored Him as a person by identifying with Him while others mocked Him and railed upon Him. She honored the great work which He came to perform by assisting with His burial and was the last to leave the tomb. The kindness of Mary Magdalene was singularly rewarded by Christ. She became the first one to whom He appeared after His resurrection. He returned her kindness by strengthening her heart with the truth of His resurrection. [From John 18:12-20:18]

Why Did Jesus First Appear to Mary Magdalene?

The resurrection appearances of Christ can teach us much. We learn that the risen Lord is just as tender, compassionate, and loving as He was while living among men. On that first Easter morning, Mary Magdalene missed her Lord greatly. The disciples, of course, felt great loss, but they were preoccupied with their fear of the Jews and remained in hiding behind locked doors. (See John 20:19.) It was Mary who had maintained a vigil at the tomb and stood there, weeping. In an act of love, the Lord appeared to her and gave her hope. Later that day He appeared to the disciples, who had refused to believe her report. (See John 19-20.) But Thomas was not present then; and in order to stimulate Thomas's weak faith, the Lord made another appearance eight days later. (See John 20:26-27.) The risen Lord chose not to over persuade men into His kingdom. Jesus appeared only to believers. Although He was crucified publicly and was subjected to the insults of His enemies, He did not show Himself to unbelievers in His resurrected body. How easy it would have been for Him to have appeared before the members of the Sanhedrin who had tried Him for blasphemy. But salvation is by faith. He gives men the evidence of His Word. "...Blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed" (John 20:29).

Why Did the Lord Ask Mary Not to Touch Him?

When Mary recognized the voice of Jesus, she tried to cling to her Master and keep Him in her presence. But the Lord said to Mary, "... Touch me not; for I am not yet ascended to my Father..." (John 20:17). Nothing could prevent Him from completing His ascent and entering into His rightful inheritance. The very thing Mary desired, His comfort and companionship, would be frustrated if she held on to Him. The Lord would send the Holy Spirit to comfort, teach, and abide with Mary at all times. (See John 14:26-28.)

Why Did the Disciples Disbelieve Mary's Testimony?

When Mary told Peter and John that the stone had been removed and that the Lord's body had been taken, they believed her without any doubt and ran to the tomb to investigate. (See John 20:1-4.) But when Mary testified that she had seen the risen Lord, the disciples dismissed her claim. "And they, when they had heard that he was alive, and had been seen of her, believed not" (Mark 16:11). Later, when the Lord appeared to them, He "...upbraided them with their unbelief and hardness of heart, because they believed not them which had seen him after he was risen" (Mark 16:14). The same is true for us today. We have not seen the risen Lord with our own eyes, but we have credible witnesses like Mary and many others who did. He expects us to believe His Word and to act in faith on the basis of it.

Illustrated in the World of Nature:

The redpoll looks like a small brown sparrow. It is about five and a half inches long, with a bright red cap and black chin. It lives in the low arctic tundra in areas where the tree growth has been stunted. When winters in the Arctic are severe, the redpoll migrates to Canada and the northern United States. In summer it feeds on insects, while in winter it eats only seeds. It is against the law to keep a redpoll in captivity.

How is the Secret of Longsuffering Illustrated in the World of Nature?

An arctic explorer struggled onward against bitter cold temperatures. It was fifty degrees below zero. His strength was drained after battling unexpected storms. His food supply would barely sustain him back to the base camp. Icy winds cut through his clothes, and finally the exhausted man slumped to the frozen tundra. He cried out to God for help, although he did not know what God would do in this desolate wilderness. Suddenly, he heard an unusual sound. He listened more closely. The sound was getting louder. It was bright and cheery. He turned around, and there to his surprise was another arctic traveler. This one had gained far more experience than he had in traveling throughout the polar regions. During a two month period, this veteran traveler had covered thousands of miles of arctic territory. The weary explorer had heard about this famous traveler, and he recalled what he knew about him. He listened to him and watched him demonstrate the secret that kept him going while others gave up. First, he went over to a nearby bush and shook a branch until many of its seeds fell on the snow-crushed tundra. Then, he quickly picked up all the seeds and went over to a sheltered place and sat down, and one by one cracked open the seeds which he had gathered. He gained nourishment from each one. As long as he had a supply of seeds and slowly ate them, he had amazing strength and an unusual ability to withstand arctic conditions. As the explorer watched, he understood the life giving message that he had just received. He had learned many Scripture verses as a young boy but had failed to gain strength by meditating on them day and night. He had been depending on his own strength, and that had been exhausted. He remembered the words of Isaiah 40:31 which this arctic traveler had just demonstrated. "...They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings...they shall run and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." With that verse strengthening his heart and mind, the revived explorer stood up and walked on. God had answered his prayer for help by demonstrating the importance of meditating on Scripture. The more experienced traveler was the common redpoll. This arctic bird gave a valuable gift of kindness to the explorer by giving this secret of longsuffering.

The Characteristics of the Redpoll in Scripture:

The common redpoll's characteristic of storing seeds in an esophageal pouch and bringing them up again for nourishment is a clear picture of the process of Scriptural meditation. Scripture is compared to seeds, "...The seed is the word of God" (Luke 8:11). The redpoll searches for seeds daily. The early Christians "...received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily..." (Acts 17:11). We are to do the same. Once found, Scripture must be taken and stored in the heart, as emphasized in the following verses.

"Thy words were found, and I did eat them, and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart..." ~ Jeremiah 15:16

"Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee" ~ Psalm 119:11

The redpoll's ability to bring the seeds up again day and night is a parallel to the command of God to meditate on His Word day and night.

"...Thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success" ~ Joshua 1:8

As the redpoll cracks open the seeds, it reingests them. We are to "crack open" the words of truth in order to gain the rich application and meaning of each one. (See 2 Timothy 2:15.)

Raising the Standard: Thriftiness Is Taking Care Of What I Have To Extend Its Usefulness

"The slothful man roasteth not that which he took in hunting: but the substance of a diligent man is precious." ~ Proverbs 12:27

Living Lessons on Thriftiness:

In order to properly care for our possessions, we must first recognize that what we have has been entrusted to us by the Lord. Only then can we view ourselves as stewards and have the excitement in life that comes by using our resources to advance God's Kingdom. Cleanliness is a vital part of thriftiness. Cleanliness is not "next to godliness," it is "part of Godliness." One of the most successful kings of Judah demonstrated through his life and work how cleansing and care of God's possessions must begin within the heart and life of God's people.

God promises that if judgment begins at the house of God, He will deal with the heathen. (See 1 Peter 4:17.) Who was the king that began a spiritual cleansing and by it marked the end of a cruel heathen empire? Josiah.

How is the Need to Take Care of Possessions Illustrated in Scripture?

The year was 632 B.C. An Assyrian emperor educated by the priests of his day looked from his huge palace in Nineveh to the amazing architectural achievements of his city. There was the famous library with priceless historical records. Then there was the magnificent aqueduct with huge archways over the valley brook. It was constructed with millions of large, cut limestone blocks. Also under his leadership was a well trained army, which had maintained control of conquered territories through ruthless and brutal tactics. In that same year, a sixteen year old king, who lived within the domain of that emperor, began to seek after the Lord God that made heaven and earth. His seeking after God was in contrast to the wicked rule of his father. However, his grandfather had repented of his wicked ways at the end of his reign and had begun to tear down the false worship centers in the land. As the youthful king began to seek the Lord, the grip of that powerful emperor suddenly weakened to the point that he had to flee from Nineveh and rule the empire from a new western location. Four years later, that young, God-fearing king began to cleanse his kingdom from the perversion and immorality accepted through the false philosophies which permeated the music, art and sculptures of the day. He and those with him broke down carved and molten images, ground them into dust, and threw the dust upon the graves of those who had worshiped them. It is significant that after this was accomplished, God heralded the end of the Assyrian empire with the death of its brilliant ruler --- Ashurbanipal. Josiah, the Godly king of Judah, at the age of twenty six, began the monumental task of repairing the house of the Lord. Large, hewn stones were pulled to the site to rebuild sections that were broken down, and timber was brought in for floors and couplings. As their work progressed, God crowned their efforts with a valuable discovery --- a book of the Law of the Lord, given by Moses. It had been lost for many years. In caring for the things entrusted to him, king Josiah gained valuable direction for his life and his leadership. [From 2 Chronicles 34]

How Was Josiah Influenced to Seek the Lord?

Although Josiah grew up in the court of two of the most disobedient kings of Judah, it is likely that he received Godly instruction when young. He was born six years before the death of his grandfather, Manasseh, in a time of brief reform. King Manasseh had been captured by the Assyrians and thoroughly humiliated by them. After his release, he was allowed to regain his throne in Jerusalem Because of this experience, his heart was softened, and he "...commanded Judah to serve the Lord God of Israel" (2 Chronicles 33:16). Josiah's very name hints to the climate of the time. His name resumed the custom of compounding royal names with that of Jehovah. Josiah means "may the Lord support or heal." The new freedom and encouragement for followers of the Lord, which resulted from Manasseh's change of heart, provided the Godly remnant among the priests an opportunity to train the royal prince. These same tutors were probably allowed to continue their teaching duties through the rule of king Amon and during the early years of Josiah's reign.

How Did Josiah Encourage the People to Follow the Lord?

First, he set a good example. "And he did that which was right in the sight of the Lord, and walked in all the way of David his father..." (2 Kings 22:2). Second, Josiah destroyed the centers of pagan worship and the idolatrous priests who were leading the people astray. Third, he began reconstruction of the temple in order to reinstate proper worship of Jehovah. Fourth, when confronted with the Law, he acknowledged the sins of his fathers and the people and fully repented. He then gathered all the people great and small, "...and he read in their ears all the words of the book of the covenant..." (2 Chronicles 34:30). Josiah committed himself to obey the Law and urged the people to do the same. He destroyed the centers of false worship, removing the temptation to resume activities after the initial stages of reform. He reinstituted the Passover and generously provided sacrificial animals from his own herds. "And there was no passover like to that kept in Israel from the days of Samuel the prophet; neither did all the kings of Israel keep such a passover as Josiah kept..." (2 Chronicles 35:18).

Were Josiah's Reforms Politically Motivated?

The king might be accused of merely being an astute politician by instituting religious reform. Refurbishing the temple and destroying competing religious centers could be viewed as an attempt to centralize the kingdom in Jerusalem and reunite the remnant remaining in the north. Destroying Assyrian idols could be considered a bold, calculated insult to the weakened northern empire, a declaration of complete independence. But there is evidence to believe that Josiah's reforms were motivated primarily out of a pure love for the Lord. When he heard the Law, "...he rent his clothes" (2 Chronicles 34:19). Huldah the prophetess declared Josiah's heart to be pure. "Because thine heart was tender, and thou didst humble thyself before God... and didst rent thy clothes, and weep before me; I have even heard thee also, saith the Lord" (2 Chronicles 34:27). Jeremiah, in the prophet's lament, declared Josiah to be a just, unselfish judge who had compassion on the poor. (See Jeremiah 22:11-16.)

Illustrated in the World of Nature:

Once called the "blue robin," the bluebird wears the colors found in the flag of the United States of America. It has a brilliant blue back, a red chest, and a white underside. Bluebirds are extremely beneficial. They eat harmful insects by the thousands. A single bird may eat as many as 50,000 cutworms in a season. In the winter bluebirds eat wild berries, including those of the mistletoe and poison ivy. The young weigh only three grams when they hatch but multiply their weight nine times in two weeks.

How is the Need to Take Care of Resources Illustrated in the World of Nature?

While the Second World War was causing British people to live in daily dread of German attacks, another war was taking place in the fields of America. Longtime residents feared a threat from the sky just as real as the German rockets in Britain. The eerie sound of sirens in Britain caused the inhabitants to run to the safety of their bomb shelters. The shrieking sound of the terror in American skies caused country residents to flee to the safety of their homes. After the raids, the dead were strewn about both Britain and America. Parents in both countries would train their young how to detect the enemy flying overhead and give stern warnings not to wander far from safety. After air attacks, mothers were kept busy cleaning their homes and removing debris. While the mothers were taking care of their infants, the fathers were teaching their youth and preparing them to assist with family responsibilities. One day in a peaceful countryside in America the dreaded alarm was given --- the aggressive attackers were coming. Quickly, the residents fled to their homes. Mothers huddled with their young while fathers sat nervously waiting. Moments later, thousands of invaders descended from the sky. Some landed in the open field, others in trees. As soon as the invaders surveyed the territory they entered the homes. Brazenly they burst in and forced the occupants out. If there were infants in the home, they threw them out in the dirt. Many of them perished. The cruel invaders then treated the homes as their own, confiscating the contents for their own use. No longer was the sound of happy singing to be heard in this region. Instead, there would be the strange sound of the new arrivals. Once they were established in their stolen homes, they advanced into new territories, plundering the crops of berries, cherries, apples, and pears. When news of this reached the cities of America, it caused alarm and concern, but little could be done. The intruders were so well equipped to survive in America that they had multiplied into millions. Those whom they displaced dwindled in number. The invaders from the sky who descended upon American fields were starlings. The longtime residents which they displaced and scattered were the red, white, and blue eastern bluebirds. During the Second World War the starlings multiplied into millions and reduced the bluebird population by ninety percent. Ironically, starlings were introduced to America when about one hundred of them were imported from Great Britain in 1890-1891. The bluebirds that have remained have done so because of their thriftiness in finding and maintain homes which the starlings could not enter.

The Characteristics of the Bluebird in Scripture:

The importance of the nest to the survival of the bluebird provides significant parallels to the importance of the home for the continuing health and well being of the family. The danger of a bluebird being forced to aimlessly wander from its nest is compared to the danger of a parent or child wandering away from his home.

"As a bird that wandereth from her nest, so is a man that wandereth from his place" ~ Proverbs 27:8 (Also see Isaiah 16:2.)

The affection and care of the male bluebird for his partner speaks of the self sacrifice which the husband is to provide for his wife. (See Ephesians 5:25.) As the male bluebird teaches its young, so fathers are to bring up their children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. (See Ephesians 6:4.) The large number of offspring that the bluebirds have coincides with God's command to parents, "...Be fruitful, and multiply..." (Genesis 1:28). The teaching of older chicks to help with the rearing of the young illustrates the admonition of 1 Timothy 5:4 to learn first to show piety at home. The mother bluebird's amazing care of the nest is a beautiful example of being a keeper at home. (See Titus 2:5.)