1 Samuel 20:18 Then Jonathan said to David, To morrow is the new moon: and you shall be missed, because your seat will be empty. There are two aspects of truth in these words. One fact is plain enough; the vacant chair will one day be our own. I do not say that the highest motive that can inspire us is to be found in a desire to be gratefully remembered. No; Christian duty has its highest motives in the love of Christ, and in devotion to the right as right. I. THERE IS A RECOGNITION OF REALITY ALL AROUND AND ABOUT US. Men are for the most part known for what they verily are. II. THERE ARE GRADUATED SPHERES OF INFLUENCE. III. THERE ARE CAPACITIES INDIVIDUAL TO OURSELVES. Each Life is a separate creation of God's. No two dogs even have the same countenances. IV. THERE IS A RECOGNITION OF SPECIAL FRIENDSHIP. We cannot feel alike to all if we would. (W. M. Statham.) Parallel Verses KJV: Then Jonathan said to David, To morrow is the new moon: and thou shalt be missed, because thy seat will be empty. |
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