Our brothers, the sons of Korah, were also ancient song writers, and again remind us it is the Lord’s power and presence that wins each and every victory for His people.
Now, we love our enemies and do good to those who despitefully use us. We can trust God’s right hand and presence. And in His presence we can take delight! In this we are His favored ones…
Psalm 44:3 For by their own sword they did not possess the land, And their own arm did not save them, But Your right hand and Your arm and the light of Your presence, For You favored them.
Thousands of years later our brother Joseph Swain published a song with this theme in 1791 at age 30, 5 years before his death. It’s called O Thou, In Whose Presence.
O Thou, in Whose presence my soul takes delight,
On Whom in affliction I call,
My comfort by day, and my song in the night,
My hope, my salvation, my all.Where dost thou, dear Shepherd resort with thy sheep,
To feed them in pastures of love?
Say, why in the valley of death should I weep,
Or alone in this wilderness rove?Oh why should I wander, an alien from Thee,
Or cry in the desert for bread?
Thy foes will rejoice when my sorrows they see,
And smile at the tears I have shed.He looks, and ten thousands of angels rejoice,
And myriads wait for His word;
He speaks and eternity, filled with His voice,
Re-echoes the praise of the Lord.Dear Shepherd, I hear and will follow Thy call,
I know the sweet sound of Thy voice.
Restore and defend me, for Thou art my all,
And in Thee I will ever rejoice.
Joseph Swain was born in Birmingham in 1761, and had the misfortune of losing both parents when he was young. After being apprenticed to an engraver, he was removed to London 118 miles to the southeast, where he has exposed to great moral dangers from his association with rambunctious youthful companions. But after experiencing deep religious convictions, and being agitated by distressing fears, he at length found peace in Jesus.
To give utterance to his new life, he began writing hymns, which he took delight at singing. A friend, hearing him singing these Christian hymns, took him to hear gospel preaching – a privilege he has not enjoyed before. This gave him great delight, and service to further his spiritual life. In 1783 he was baptized by the Rev. Dr. Rippon and in 1791 became minister of a Baptist congregation in East Street, Walworth. But his useful course was cut short. After a short but popular and very useful ministry, he died April 14th 1796.
Our brother was only 35 when he passed to greater glory. I can’t wait to meet brother Joseph at Home with Jesus and hear his story, and sing his songs with him! How about you, dear one? J
One of our favorite artists, Fernando Ortega, has recorded this song. It’s absolutely heart stirring. Please listen to it here.
Our Lord, for those of us who truly love You by our sincere and consistent obedience, You will set us in Your presence forever. This life is full of sorrow and pain from our enemies, false friends, and sickness. We look to You for the joy of the Spirit in the midst of all this, for He brings us freedom in You!
Please comment on this post right below. Feel free to write and proclaim your leadings in the Spirit in an honorable fashion.
Your friend and brother in fighting the good fight,
Marc
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Saints, we’re one day closer to Home, and Him! Love Him wholeheartedly!
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You may view our Archives here: FRIDAY FIRE – ARCHIVES; Complete Archives. May our Father richly bless you with His grace, through Jesus Christ our Lord, in order to walk worthy of His name.
Please comment on this post right below. Feel free to write and proclaim your leadings in the Spirit in an honorable fashion.
Marc White, Director, Walk Worthy Ministries, www.WalkWorthy.org
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