Strong Composure
True strength is not shown in action, but in the ability to remain calm and composed in the face of adversity.
Charles E. Cowman preaches about the strength and power found in maintaining composure and silence in the face of unjust accusations and ill-treatment, drawing inspiration from the example of Jesus who responded with calmness to extreme provocations. He emphasizes the importance of not being moved from what one believes is right, even in the midst of hurt and challenges, echoing St. Paul's resolve to remain steadfast in his faith regardless of the circumstances.
Text
"Dearly beloved, avenge not yourselves" (Rom. 12:19).
There are seasons when to be still demands immeasurably higher strength than to act. Composure is often the highest result of power. To the vilest and most deadly charges Jesus responded with deep, unbroken silence, such as excited the wonder of the judge and the spectators. To the grossest insults, the most violent ill-treatment and mockery that might well bring indignation into the feeblest heart, He responded with voiceless complacent calmness. Those who are unjustly accused, and causelessly ill-treated know what tremendous strength is necessary to keep silence to God.
"Men may misjudge thy aim,
Think they have cause to blame,
Say, thou art wrong;
Keep on thy quiet way,
Christ is the Judge, not they,
Fear not, be strong."
St. Paul said, "None of these things move me."
He did not say, none of these things hurt me. It is one thing to be hurt, and quite another to be moved. St. Paul had a very tender heart. We do not read of any apostle who cried as St. Paul did. It takes a strong man to cry. Jesus wept, and He was the manliest Man that ever lived. So it does not say, none of these things hurt me. But the apostle had determined not to move from what he believed was right. He did not count as we are apt to count; he did not care for ease; he did not care for this mortal life. He cared for only one thing, and that was to be loyal to Christ, to have His smile. To St. Paul, more than to any other man, His work was wages, His smile was Heaven.
--Margaret Bottome
Sermon Outline
- The Importance of Composure
- The Dangers of Being Moved by Circumstances
- The Example of St. Paul
- St. Paul's determination to stay loyal to Christ
- The importance of prioritizing one's relationship with Christ
Key Quotes
“Men may misjudge thy aim, Think they have cause to blame, Say, thou art wrong; Keep on thy quiet way, Christ is the Judge, not they, Fear not, be strong.” — Charles E. Cowman
“None of these things move me.” — Charles E. Cowman
“To the vilest and most deadly charges Jesus responded with deep, unbroken silence, such as excited the wonder of the judge and the spectators.” — Charles E. Cowman
Application Points
- Prioritize your relationship with Christ above all else, even in difficult situations.
- Stay calm and composed in the face of opposition, and avoid making rash decisions.
- Remember that Christ is the ultimate Judge, and trust in His love and guidance.