========================================================================
  TWENTY-SECOND DAY: 'THOU ART WITH ME.'
  by J. Wilbur Chapman
========================================================================

Summary: The sermon emphasizes the importance of recognizing God's
presence during trials and the growth that comes from suffering with
Him.

Topics: "Gods Presence", "Spiritual Growth"
Scripture References: Psalm 23:4, Isaiah 41:10, Romans 8:17, 1 Corinthians 10:13, Hebrews 12:6

------------------------------------------------------------------------
DESCRIPTION
------------------------------------------------------------------------

J. Wilbur Chapman emphasizes the shift in perspective when facing
challenges, urging believers to draw closer to God in times of darkness
and difficulty, addressing Him directly as a source of comfort and
strength. He encourages the congregation to embrace the privilege of
acknowledging God's presence by declaring 'Thou art with me,' fostering
a mindset of fearlessness in the midst of trials. Chapman reminds
listeners that God's refining work in our lives is purposeful, ensuring
that we only face what we can endure and what is necessary for our
growth and maturity.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
CONTENT
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Do you notice the change in the person of the pronoun here? In other
instances the Psalmist has spoken of his Lord in the third person; but
now, as he comes into the shadows, he comes nearer to him; and says
"Thou."

It is all very well to speak in general terms when all goes well with
us; but the darkness is upon us and the heart-strings almost snap; it is
better far to avail ourselves of our birthright privilege and say, "Thou
art with me;" I will fear no evil.

Doubtless this day shall mean something of disappointment and trial, but
the sting will be taken out of it when we remember that He is with us
"whose fan is in his hand." The fan was a rude instrument used to
separate the chaff from the wheat, and our Lord is dealing with us for
the same reason. He will not permit more of trial than we can stand or
need. Let us rejoice that the fan is not in the hands of our enemies--
they would make us suffer too much, nor in the hands of our friends--for
they would make it too easy, but in His who walks with us every hour of
every day.

SUGGESTIONS FOR TODAY.

1. Remember that whom the Lord loveth he chastiseth.

2. Picture Job's suffering and Paul's trials then thank God that, while
you have nothing so heavy, you do have Christ,

3. Remember that if we suffer with him, we shall also share in his
glory. Then thank God for trial.

========================================================================
Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/j-wilbur-chapman/twenty-second-day-thou-art-with-me/
========================================================================