Letter 10
The sermon emphasizes the importance of finding hope in the Lord, trusting in His sovereignty, and keeping close to Him in difficult times.
James Bourne shares about his unwavering hope in the Lord despite facing various challenges, finding comfort in God's presence and the support of the Holy Spirit. He acknowledges that without God's presence, he would feel lost, but with the Spirit's help, he remains steadfast. Bourne encourages his friend to stay close to God, seeking His guidance and a deeper revelation of Himself.
Text
[To a Friend.] March 7, 1810.
My dear Friend,
Since I saw you last I have been much exercised in various ways, but I find my hope is still in the Lord; and that none are able to pluck me out of his hand. It is now that the testimony of God supports me, while I have looked in vain for that of man. His comfortable presence, which is often with me, and has been so with very little intermission ever since Monday fortnight, at half-past six, is now my strength. I sometimes think that if this dear Friend, who is touched with the feeling of our infirmities, were wholly to withdraw himself, I should indeed be at my wits' end; but it is not so with me yet; the blessed Spirit is pleased to help my infirmities, and quiet my soul under all these storms. Those that have risen up against me will find in the end, that nothing can by any means hurt me, because the Lord is on my side, and he will, in his own time and manner, manage all these matters in my behalf. I desire to leave my cares in his hands, and often feel enabled to do so.
I sincerely hope matters go on well with you, and that the joy of the Lord is your strength. I beseech you to keep close to God, begging earnestly of him to teach and instruct, and to reveal him-self more clearly to you.
Yours &c. J. B.
Sermon Outline
- Hope in the Lord
- Dependence on God's Spirit
- Trust in God's sovereignty
- The Lord is on my side
- God will manage all matters in my behalf
Key Quotes
“Those that have risen up against me will find in the end, that nothing can by any means hurt me, because the Lord is on my side, and he will, in his own time and manner, manage all these matters in my behalf.” — James Bourne
“It is now that the testimony of God supports me, while I have looked in vain for that of man.” — James Bourne
“I desire to leave my cares in his hands, and often feel enabled to do so.” — James Bourne
Application Points
- You can find hope in the Lord, who is always with you and supports you.
- Trust in God's sovereignty by recognizing that He is always on your side and will manage all matters in your behalf.
- Keep close to God and beg Him to reveal Himself more clearly to you, so you can find joy in Him.