Evening, November 28, edited from Spurgeon’s Morning and Evening

“One who sought the good of his people.” — Esther 10:3

Mordecai was a true patriot, and therefore, being exalted to the highest position under Ahasuerus, he used his eminence to promote the prosperity of Israel. In this he was a type of Jesus, who, upon his throne of glory, seeks not his own good, but spends his power for his people. It would be well if every Christian would be a Mordecai to the church, striving according to his ability for its prosperity. Some are placed in positions of affluence and influence; let them honor their Lord in the great places of the earth, and testify for Jesus before great men. Others have what is far better, namely, close fellowship with the King of kings; let them be sure to implore daily in prayer for the weakest of the Lord’s people, the doubting, the tempted, and the comfortless. It will contribute greatly to their honor if they make much intercession for those who are in darkness and who fear to draw close to the mercy seat. Trained believers may serve their Master greatly if they lay out their talents for the general good, and impart their wealth of heavenly learning to others, by teaching them the things of God. The very least in our Israel may at least seek the welfare of his people; and his desire, if he can give no more, shall be acceptable. For a believer to cease from living for himself is both the most Christlike and the most happy course. He who blesses others cannot fail to be blessed himself. On the other hand, to seek our own personal greatness is a wicked and unhappy plan of life; its way will be grievous and its end will be fatal.

Here is the place to ask you, my friend, whether you are —  to the best of your power — seeking the well-being of the church in your neighborhood? I trust you are not doing it damage by bitterness and scandal, nor weakening it by your neglect. Friend, unite with the Lord’s poor, bear their cross, do them all the good you can, and you shall not miss your reward.