“Keep not back.” — Isaiah 43:6
Although this message was sent to the south, and referred to the seed ofIsrael, it may profitably be a summons to ourselves. Backward we arenaturally to all good things, and it is a lesson of grace to learn to go forwardin the ways of God. Reader, are you unconverted, but do you desire totrust in the Lord Jesus? Then keep not back. Love invites you, thepromises secure you success, the precious blood prepares the way. Letnot sins or fears hinder you, but come to Jesus just as you are. Do youlong to pray? Would you pour out your heart before the Lord? Keep notback. The mercy-seat is prepared for such as need mercy; a sinner’s crieswill prevail with God. You are invited, nay, you are commanded to pray,come therefore with boldness to the throne of grace.
Dear friend, are you already saved? Then…
keep not back from union withthe Lord’s people. Neglect not the ordinances of baptism and the Lord’sSupper. You may be of a timid disposition, but you must strive against it,lest it lead you into disobedience. There is a sweet promise made to thosewho confess Christ — by no means miss it, lest you come under thecondemnation of those who deny Him. If you have talents keep not backfrom using them. Hoard not your wealth, waste not your time; let not yourabilities rust or your influence be unused. Jesus kept not back, imitate Himby being foremost in self-denials and self-sacrifices. Keep not back fromclose communion with God, from boldly appropriating covenant blessings,from advancing in the divine life, from prying into the precious mysteriesof the love of Christ. Neither, beloved friend, be guilty of keeping othersback by your coldness, harshness, or suspicions. For Jesus’ sake goforward yourself, and encourage others to do the like. Hell and theleaguered bands of superstition and infidelity are forward to the fight. Osoldiers of the cross, keep not back.
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Producer: Todd Adkins
Voice Artist: Ian Cullen