June 2, 2006

[Rev. Doc]

Secret Of Strength And Serenity

"I can do everything through him who gives me strength."
Philippians 4:13

Phillips Brooks, former minister of Boston's Trinity Episcopal Church, is perhaps best known as the author of "O Little Town of Bethlehem." He was a very busy pastor, yet he always seemed relaxed and unburdened, willing to take time for anyone in need. Shortly before Brooks died, a young friend wrote to him and asked the secret of his strength and serenity. In a heartfelt response, Brooks credited his still-growing relationship with Christ.

He wrote, "The more I have thought it over, the more sure it has seemed to me that these last years have had a peace and fullness which there did not used to be. It is a deeper knowledge and truer love of Christ.....I cannot tell you how personal this grows to me. He is here. He knows me and I know Him. It is the most real thing in the world. And every day makes it more real. And one wonders with delight what it will grow to as the years go on."

Prayer: Ask God for a closer walk with Him, so that you may experience His peace and strength.

"Only he who can say, 'The Lord is the strength of my life' can say, 'Of whom shall I be afraid?'"
~Alexander MacLaren