Signs of the Times

with contributions from W. H. Bourne, Charles F. Kemp

Rev. W. H. Bourne in the Chichester and Southdown Observer Chichester, Sussex, England

In his earlier ministry St. Paul wrote of a painful and humbling experience that he called a thorn in the flesh. At that time he regarded this unspecified discomfort as something God permitted Satan to send, and, moreover, that it was not God's will to interfere in any way. Later on his references show-that he came to a riper understanding of God's will, and that the removal of his trouble followed this deeper knowledge of a good and wise Will.

This is always the case. Until we have been better taught by the Holy Spirit we regard every sickness and trouble as God's holy will, attributing to the Heavenly Father a callousness we would not ourselves show to others. But God is like Jesus, Whose immediate response was healing and wholeness.

From an editorial in The Advocate Burnie, Tasmania, Australia

It was interesting to note the other day that two American space vehicle experts had been asked whether or not, in their opinion, man's first flight into space might cast doubt on the existence of God. Both men—one an American-born military commander, the other a German-born rocket specialist— gave it as their firm opinion that space travel would tend to prove rather than disprove the existence of God.

"Our first steps into the vacuum of space," stated the military man, "have re-emphasised the beauty and order of creation and have verified the natural laws which govern all existence." ... The American general believes scientific advancement has been made possible "with the grace of God."

That same grace, or strengthening influence, will most certainly support man as he reaches out to the stars.

Rev. Charles F. Kemp in The Christian Evangelist-Front Rank St. Louis, Missouri

The Christian faith is that God is love—unconditional love. ... This is God's nature. ... God can be trusted; at the heart of the universe is One that can be depended upon, One that understands and cares.

If this is true, no man need ever doubt his worth. Every life has value and meaning. There is a source of strength for every need, there is assurance and forgiveness— for God is love and it is love that never fails.

This is what the church must make real.

Send a comment to the editors

This is the end of the issue. Ready to explore further?

Online features Audio

March 12, 1960

Contents

We'd love to hear from you!

Easily submit your testimonies, articles, and poems online.

Submit