New Sermon Illustrations
Story★★★★There is a thrilling passage in Motley’s History of the Dutch Republic describing the scene between Wil- liam, Prince of Orange, and Philip of Spain, when the latter was threatening the former with confiscation of his goods and the loss of his life. With a courage inspired by the vision of Him whom he served, Prince William flung the challenge back in the face of the tyrant, declaring: “I am in the hands of God. My worldly goods and my life have long since been dedicated to His service.
He will dispose of them as seems best to His glory and my salva- tion.” This is the speech of the man who knows his Lord, and believes that he is able to save to the uttermost. It is the speech of a man not only self-reliant, but God-reliant, who has appropriated the promises of God in their fullest meaning.
He faces conflict, he suffers the woundings of the foe, but his heart is undismayed. God is on his side.
The point
Prince William of Orange faced tyrant Philip declaring 'I am in the hands of God; my goods and life are His to dispose'—faith and God-reliance face conflict undismayed.