SAFE IN THE ARMS OF JESUS

Down through the ages, every single human being ever lived, including animals, have two basic necessities in their minds – the provision for a proper life; and their safety, from all harm and danger. This is a very core of our hearts. Everything else in our lives, revolves around these two primary needs.

Anglican clergyman and hymn writer, John Newton, understands this all too well. He was a slave trader, who turned from sin, to become the “salve” of Christ Jesus. With his vast and rich experience, he writes in a letter, on 19 August 1775 – precisely 250 years back – something that should enlighten and empower us, as a Christian.
– “We are never more safe, never have more reason to expect the Lord’s help, than when we are most sensible that we can do nothing without Him.” – John Newton

What a statement and what a perspective! This is the key to a fruitful and fulfilling life. Sadly, we do not grasp this eternal truth, and try to hold our life, in one piece, with our feeble hands, and our finite minds. We are concerned about the uncertainty of life – rightly so. Our concerns drive us to action – a good thing to do. However, to whom we run; on whom we depend; on whose strength we try to face our challenges, and fell the same, in our life is, the million dollar question.
– “Whatever happens, nothing shall hurt the believer; though trouble and affliction befall, it shall come, not for his hurt, but for good, though for the present it be not joyous but grievous. Those who rightly know God, will set their love upon him. They by prayer constantly call upon him. His promise is, that he will in due time deliver the believer out of trouble, and in the meantime be with him in trouble.” – Matthew Henry

We need to grasp this truth, as soon as possible that, WE CAN DO NOTHING WITHOUT GOD. In fact, God wants to help us, and guide us, through every challenge and storm, that we may be facing right now, or will ever face in the future. Let us remember the wonderful hymn written by Fanny J. Crosby – “SAFE IN THE ARMS OF JESUS”
– “Safe in the arms of Jesus, safe from corroding care, safe from the world’s temptations, sin cannot harm me there. Free from the blight of sorrow, free from my doubts and fears; only a few more trials, only a few more tears!” – Second stanza

The Word of God has many reminders, written down for us, about we, placing our faith and trust in the LORD our God.
– “14 Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name. 15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him. 16 With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.” – Psalm 91:14-16
– “9 Know therefore that the LORD thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments to a thousand generations;” – Deuteronomy 7:9

Are we willing to trust and obey the LORD? For in doing so, is our abundant provision, and our surest protection. There is none who can ever care for us like our LORD Jesus. Hasn’t He already demonstrated, His love and care for us, in the Cross of Calvary? Let us recollect the words of John Newton – “We are never more safe, never have more reason to expect the Lord’s help, than when we are most sensible that we can do nothing without Him.”