Presence of Mind
The sermon emphasizes the importance of displaying presence of mind, courage, and quietness of spirit in the face of unexpected or sudden events, trusting in God's presence and protection.
C.H. Spurgeon emphasizes the importance of maintaining a presence of mind amidst sudden fears and the chaos of the wicked's desolation, reminding believers that God is their confidence and protector. He encourages Christians to remain courageous and serene, understanding that God's judgments are not meant to harm but to defend the righteous. Spurgeon highlights the need for discernment, asserting that the true calamity lies in sin itself rather than its consequences. Believers are called to exhibit a quiet spirit, trusting in God's guidance to avoid the snares of deceit. Ultimately, Spurgeon reassures that those who walk with God will find strength and confidence in His presence.
Text
Be not afraid of sudden fear, neither of the desolation of the wicked, when it cometh. For the Lord shall be thy confidence, and shall keep thy foot from being taken. (Proverbs 3;25-26)
When God is abroad in judgments, He would not have His people alarmed. He has not come forth to harm but to defend the righteous.
He would have them manifest courage. We who enjoy the presence of God ought to display presence of mind. Since the Lord Himself may suddenly come, we ought not to be surprised at anything sudden. Serenity under the rush and roar of unexpected evils is a precious gift of divine love.
The Lord would have His chosen display discrimination so that they may see that the desolation of the wicked is not a real calamity to the universe. Sin alone is evil; the punishment which follows thereupon is as a preserving salt to keep society from putrefying. We should be far more shocked at the sin which deserves hell than at the hell which comes out of sin.
So, too, should the Lord's people exhibit great quietness of spirit. Satan and his serpent seed are full of all subtlety; but those who walk with God shall not be taken in their deceitful snares. Go on, believer in Jesus, and let the Lord be thy confidence.
Sermon Outline
- The Lord's Confidence
- Courage in the Face of Sudden Fear
- Discrimination in Desolation
- Quietness of Spirit
- Avoiding Satan's deceitful snares
- Walking with God
Key Quotes
“We who enjoy the presence of God ought to display presence of mind.” — C.H. Spurgeon
“Serenity under the rush and roar of unexpected evils is a precious gift of divine love.” — C.H. Spurgeon
“Go on, believer in Jesus, and let the Lord be thy confidence.” — C.H. Spurgeon
Application Points
- We should remain calm and composed in the face of unexpected events, trusting in God's presence and protection.
- We should be more shocked at sin than at its punishment, recognizing that sin is the true evil.
- We can avoid being taken in by Satan's deceitful snares by walking with God and maintaining a quietness of spirit.