Anxious souls generally begin at the wrong end. They begin with themselves, instead of beginning with God. It is their doings, their feelings, their satisfaction—themselves in some way or other; and often it is some time before they learn to turn from themselves and look at God’s side; yet they never can find peace of conscience and joy of heart till they do. If you ask them, “Are you saved?” they reply that they hope so. If they are asked if they are not sure about it, they will generally tell you, “Well, not exactly; I only wish I were. I am seeking for it and praying for it; but I can’t say I am sure I am saved. I don’t seem to be satisfied.”
There are many in this condition. Praying, seeking, and trying to get satisfied. It is all self. They are putting the cart before the horse, and are surprised because they cannot get it to go. Of course not!
The gospel begins with God, not with man.
Look at that magnificent and unexhausted John 3:1616For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. (John 3:16), “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth on Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
It begins with God. God loved, we believe, and we have everlasting life. Start with God, see how He has been glorified—how He has been satisfied. You may well be satisfied when you know that God is satisfied.
Never, never will you be satisfied until you have believed that God has found perfect satisfaction in the work of Christ on the cross for you.
The proof of His satisfaction is that God raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His own right hand in the glory. The way in which He receives the poor, repentant, returning prodigal, kissing, clothing, and feasting him, tells out the satisfied heart of a satisfied God.