(i.e. Trouble).
Discipline. - Hosea 2:14-15; Hebrews 12:1-13; Ps. 23.
"The reproofs of instruction are the way of life." Prov. 6:23.
"Correction is grievous unto him that forsaketh the way." Prov. 15:10.
"Blessed is the man in whose heart are the ways." Ps. 84.
"The Father Himself loveth you." John 16:27.
Down in Achor's trial-scenes
Self is judged, and guilty found -
Faithful there the Father makes
Achor His correction-ground,
"Vale of trouble," "door of hope,"
Through the valley drawn by Thee,
Learning from Thy pleadings there
Love's alluring ministry.
Chastened, Father, and restored,
Oh, what joy on Thee to wait!
Ent'ring into Thy blest ways,
Ent'ring by the Shepherd's gate.
Shepherd "ways" of grace and truth,
Secrets of Thy staff and rod,"
"Waters still, and pastures green,"
Abba, Father - Abba, God.
Father thus each son received,
Profits by Thy jealous care;
Each partakes Thy holiness,
Each Thy faithful scourgings share.
Achor-valley, "open door,"
Scene of One from God who died;
Dying, living, "Door of hope,"
Opened by His riven side.
Without sorrow, none below;
Without sin but One alone;
"Man of sorrows" - His the cross,
Winning thence the Father's throne.
Achor's loved ones "sing," "rejoice,"
Sing of Jesus' precious blood;
Praise the Father's "Door of hope,"
Magnify the Lamb of God. C. F. C.