(James Smith, “The Pastor’s Evening Visit”)
“I thought: Surely I shall die in my nest!” Job 29:18
Job’s nest was very comfortable–and appeared to be very secure. It was on high–and not to be easily reached. He knew that death could reach it–but he thought that nothing else would disturb it.
His conduct was consistent,
his conscience was quiet;
God was his Father, and
providence was his friend.
“I thought: Surely I shall die in my nest!”
But, alas! Suddenly a ‘storm’ arose–the nest was destroyed, and the poor bird lay bleeding and exposed!
No earthly nest is out of danger! Temporal comforts are only lent to us. The higher the tree in which we build–the more exposed to the whirlwind and the storm!
Here on earth–we have no continuing city. In one moment–our fine nest may be devastated! Let us therefore endeavor to leave our matters fully with the Lord–and learn to be content with His appointments.
We must die. But when, and where, and how–should be left with the Lord.
Five minutes after death–it will matter very little whether we died on a bed of down, in a luxurious mansion, and surrounded by kind friends–OR as a poor diseased beggar, dying alone in squalor!
Present comforts may all leave us, and our soft nest may be scattered to the winds–but nothing can disturb our salvation and future glory!
“These all died in faith–and confessed that they were strangers and pilgrims on the earth!” Hebrews 11:13
“They were longing for a better country–a heavenly one. Therefore God is not ashamed to be called their God, for He has prepared a heavenly city for them!” Hebrews 11:16
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© 2010, Khaleef Crumbley. All rights reserved.
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Once again you’ve posted a devotion that really causes me to contemplate my own condition. At times I’ve been feared death, and the part that says, “Five minutes after death–it will matter very little whether we died on a bed of down…–OR as a poor diseased beggar”, really hit home.
I am reminded to set my mind ‘on things above’ and not on earthly, fleeting things. Also, I am challenged to focus on the ’5 minutes after’, knowing that whatever Providence allows in my life, I am secure that I will be with the Lord when this life is over.
Thank you again for sharing this timely gem.