Psalm 12:5 For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise, said the LORD… On one occasion, being driven from my station, two teachers and myself escaped for our lives to another missionary station at the other end of the island. We remained there for some time, and one afternoon, tired with watching (for the savages were constantly trying to take our lives) I fell fast asleep. About nine at night a retriever dog, that had been trained to warn me of approaching danger, sprang upon me and awakened me. I jumped up and saw a number of savages approaching; they went to the beautiful new church and set it on fire. I called the other missionary, and told him that in a few moments our house would be in flames. He suggested that we should prepare for the great change, for that night we would be with Jesus. He prayed to God to have mercy upon us. I went out and pulled the fence down that joined the church to the house. I was quickly surrounded by the savages, who lifted their clubs to strike me. Jesus has all power in heaven and earth; no blow could be struck without His permission. "I defy you, in the name of Jesus!" I shouted; "you think I am alone, but my God is here. He will protect me. I defy you, in the name of Jesus!" Just as I uttered those words a tornado burst upon us. The wind blew the flames from our house, and the rain soon extinguished the fire. The savages were affrighted. They said, "Jehovah God is fighting for them," and then disappeared into the neighbouring wood. The age of miracles has passed, but the God of miracles still lives and reigns. I firmly believe that in answer to prayer God sent that tornado. (J. Paton.) Parallel Verses KJV: For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy, now will I arise, saith the LORD; I will set him in safety from him that puffeth at him. |
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