Deeper Life #242

I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, LORD, only makest me dwell in safety.

—Psalm 4:8

WHEN WE HAVE A BURDEN of prayer for someone, we pray earnestly and strongly, and then comes a sense of answered prayer. We communicate with our friend and tell him that, at the time of prayer, we had the sense of relief. Was he conscious of any deliverance? He may answer no.

There is no need for misgiving, for dangers may have beset his soul in the regions in which he could not be conscious, in the regions which God alone guards. The Spirit of God led us to intercede for him, and God can minister to him, even during hours of sleep. If this points out the profound mystery of our individual souls, it points out on the other hand the marvelous security of our great God. These words are true:

Safe in the arms of Jesus,

Safe on His gentle breast,

There by His love o’ershadowed,

Sweetly my soul shall rest.

Prayer Thought: I am safe in God’s providential care. To Him be praise and thanksgiving!

SUGGESTED READING: Psalm 8