The title of this little volume has been suggested by the command which Boaz gave to his reapers at Bethlehem, in regard to that earnest young gleaner Ruth, “Let fall also some of the handfuls of purpose for her, and leave them that she may glean them, and rebuke her not” (Ruth 2:1616And let fall also some of the handfuls of purpose for her, and leave them, that she may glean them, and rebuke her not. (Ruth 2:16)).
Of Ruth, it is then recorded, “So she gleaned in the field until even, and beat out that she had gleaned: and it was about an ephah of barley.” She was a wise gleaner; she carried nothing away but the golden grain; the straw she left in the field. I would ask my readers to do the same.
These addresses, given to companies of Christians under very various conditions, some a quarter of a century ago, others more recently, were briefly taken down by some hearer, and the notes have been revised.
That there is much straw in each “handful” the Author is well aware, but if there be enough of the golden grain of God’s precious truth to help a troubled inquirer, recover an unhappy backslider, cheer a feeble believer, or stimulate a fellow-servant, his object will be gained.
To the loving care of the “Lord of the harvest” the volume is prayerfully commended.
W. T. P. W.
46 Charlotte Square, Edinburgh
16th December 1898.