Deeper Life #313

The LORD is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.

—Psalm 34:18

LORD, I HAVE STRIVEN. I have prayed. I have agonized. Lord, I have experienced blessings and benedictions; but the thing has snapped, and I feel I have forsaken and fled from Thee.” Blessed be the name of God! If that is your confession, you will have to come into the kingdom by the same road the publican and harlot came.

Too many preachers and teachers are losing sight of the atonement of Jesus Christ. They preach salvation through a natural affinity to Jesus. But God wants people who are brokenhearted, broken-minded, and broken-prided.

This cruel self, oh, how it strives,

And works within my breast,

To come between Thee and my soul,

And keep me back from rest.

How many subtle forms it takes,

Of seeming verity,

As if it were not safe to rest,

And venture all on Thee.

In Thy strong hand I lay me down,

So shall the work be done;

For who can work so wondrously,

As the Almighty One?

Prayer Thought: I praise You, Lord, for my redemption!

SUGGESTED READING: Psalm 34:12–22