They were the sons of poor, but honest parents, who had to work hard for their daily bread. At the age of thirteen, all the four boys were sent to work, with a very poor education, and little hope of ring above day-laborers.
A Christian boy, an apprentice mason, who lived in the same town, had been seeking something to do for his new Master, and he saw the four boys aimlessly spending their evenings on the street, he resolved to invite them to an evening class in his father’s house. The boys asked their parents’ consent, and accepted his invitation. They were not too attentive at first; whenever his back was turned they were into mischief, but he bore with them and patiently led them on. In order to bring the Gospel of Christ, and their need of it, before them, they read a chapter of the Bible, and he opened and closed with prayer. For two winters the little class continued, and the boys made good progress in reading, writing and arithmetic.
The following Spring, two left for situations in another town, and both were saved the same year. The younger two remained another winter, then they also left to learn their trades. Years passed, and the boys were far apart, but God had used that faithful young man’s services, and he had the joy lately of hearing that all his four scholars were decided and devoted Christians, living godly lives, and leading others to the Saviour. With tears of joy running down his cheeks he said to me, “I well remember when the four restless boys were in my evening class how I was once and again on the point of giving it up as hopeless, but was always rebuked by the Lord in my unbelief. What a joy it is now to hear from them, all saved and in happy service for Christ, winning others to Him. Two in Canada; one in England, and the fourth here in the town, where he was born, and where I was born again, my comfort and the brightest light for God in the place.”
Yes, out of small beginnings, God works His greatest triumphs of grace. And such a triumph it truly is, to be saved in early years to serve the Lord. Have you known what this is in your own experience? Do not rest until you can truly say, “The Lord is my light and my salvation.” Psalms 27:11<<A Psalm of David.>> The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? (Psalm 27:1).
Be sure you put in the “my;” that you personally claim as your own Saviour, Jesus the Lord.
“Blessed are all they that put their trust in Him.” Psa. 1:12.
ML 07/30/1944