15- The FAITHFUL God

The FAITHFUL God

It has ever been one of the brightest traits in Jehovah’s character, that he has proved himself faithful - notwithstanding the faithlessness of his people. This rock has never been shaken, this foundation cannot be removed, this truth cannot be invalidated - that our God is a faithful God. In every age of the world, in all the trying circumstances in which the church has been placed, and in every individual believer’s experience - God has been found faithful. On the mount of danger, on the ocean of perplexity, or in the field of conflict - the saints have ever found the Lord with them, according to his promise; and appearing for them, in answer to their prayers. The history of the church may be read, the conduct of our God may be minutely investigated - and not the least reason to doubt, or the smallest ground for unbelieving fear can be found. God is . . . faithful to every sinner, who ever called upon his name; faithful to every saint, who ever trusted in his word; faithful to every name he bears; faithful to every relation he fills; faithful to every office he sustains! The whole church shall join to proclaim him, "The Faithful God."

Here, believer, on the faithfulness of God - you may rest with unshaken confidence - here you may repose with unwavering faith! Nothing can tempt him to . . . falsify his word, dishonor his name, or disappoint his people. His love forbids it - his faithfulness renders it impossible. He "cannot lie." "He cannot deny himself." "He is faithful who promised." Here Abraham rested and found repose; amidst all his changes of place, circumstances, and feelings. A faithful God sustained, supplied, and cheered him - through all the rough journey of life; and a faithful God rejoiced his heart on the bed of death.

Creatures may change - and will change; but the faithfulness of our God is more stable than the pillars of Heaven, and more firm than the deep foundations of the earth, "Heaven and earth shall pass away - but my words shall not pass away!" On this rock - lay the foundation of your hope. On this divine attribute - fix your faith. On this security - venture your everlasting all. The faithfulness of God will produce a summer’s calm - in the stormy bosom; and a joyful expectation - in the doubting breast. The faithfulness of God is . . . the confidence of angels, the dread of devils, the terror of impenitent sinners, and the source of a believer’s confidence.

God will . . . deliver in danger; supply in need; support in weakness; and be a friend to the trembling sinner - because, he is "the faithful God."

"He is faithful who has promised."

Heaven is promised - and Heaven shall be possessed.

Holiness is sought - and holiness shall be enjoyed.

Happiness is anticipated - and shall be realized; for "God is faithful."

God is faithful . . . to correct your follies; to restrain your foes; to sanctify your trials; to relieve your distresses; and to make all grace abound toward every humble, dependent, praying soul. "Know therefore that the Lord your God, he is God, the faithful God, who keeps covenant and mercy with those who love him and keep his commandments, to a thousand generations!"

What though the hosts of Hell engage With mingled cruelty and rage? A faithful God restrains their hands, And chains them down with iron bands!

Bound by his word, he will display A strength proportioned to our day:

And, when united trials meet, Will show a path of safe retreat.

Thus far we prove that promise good, Which Jesus ratified with blood:

Still he is gracious, wise, and just; And still in him let Israel trust.