MINISTERIAL FRESHNESS
‘As a tree planted by the waters.’
In this picture, likening a man who trusts in the Lord to a tree planted by the waters, we have a description, with six particulars given, of a perfectly fresh, fragrant, and full life, and from this I draw the subject of my address—‘Ministerial Freshness.’
I. The need of ministerial freshness.—If we lose this there is not much left in our ministry. We need it for our own sake, for the sake of others, and for the sake of God.
II. The secret of ministerial freshness.— The inclusive secret is in the minister’s relationship to the Bible. There must be personal meditation on the Word of God. And in this connection I recall the five metaphors used in the Bible concerning that word. It is the mirror that reveals, the water that cleanses, the food that strengthens, the light that illuminates, and the honey which rejoices.
III. The method of ministerial freshness.—(1) This relation to God’s Word must be a daily experience, never to be omitted. If time cannot be found it must be made. (2) We need a first-hand rather than a second-hand meditation. The too free use of books of devotion and meditation is not helpful. The Psalmist said: ‘ My meditation is sweet.’ (3) For devotional reading and meditation it is well to have a Bible absolutely free from marks. (4) Our meditation must be definite. We must read for ourselves and not for our people.
Illustrations
(1) ‘Miss Havergal writes:—“Will you look into each clause of the sixfold promise contained in the beatitude of ‘trust’ (Jeremiah 17:7-8)? You will enjoy it if you have not yet gone right into those two verses.” ’
(2) ‘I want those on whom the storm of temptation is beating pitilessly to turn to me for shelter. I want those who are passing through the dread hour of sorrow to feel instinctively that I can impart some sure and effectual consolation. I want those whom perplexities and difficulties surround like prison walls to know that I possess the key of promise, which will open every iron door in Giant Despair’s castle. Planted and rooted by the River of waters, I want to be a shadow from the heat to wayworn souls.
“They move through our ranks, recall
The stragglers, refresh the outworn.…
Eyes rekindling and prayers
Follow their steps as they go——”
My Lord, let the sweet words be true of me.’