The Pilgrim's Progress (VI): God Sends a Faithful Guide

The Family moves on with an experienced guide.

The Interpreter had refreshed Christiana, Mercy, and the boys. Before they continued their journey, another visitor arrived.

Then said the Interpreter, "This is Great-heart, your guide and conductor. He will faithfully accompany you until you shall come to the desired haven."

Christiana welcomed him gladly.

"Sir," she said, "our Lord has dealt kindly with us already, and now He has added this mercy also."

Great-heart answered simply,

"I am at my Lord's command. If He sends me with you, I am content to go."

Then the little company set out together.

As they walked, Christiana looked ahead.

"Good Sir, are there many dangers before us?"

"There are difficulties enough," replied Great-heart, "but keep together, and be not afraid. The King knows the way better than any of us."

Mercy said,

"I rejoice that we do not travel alone."

The children listened closely.

Matthew asked,

"Have you often travelled this road?"

"Many times," answered Great-heart, "and I have seen the King's faithfulness upon it again and again."

So they journeyed on, sometimes talking together, sometimes quietly considering all that the Interpreter had shown them, and often lifting their thoughts toward the Celestial City that lay before them.

Their road was still long, but the King had not left them to find it alone.

*******************************Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed. -John 20:29

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NEVER ALONE

I’ve seen the lightning flashing, I’ve heard the thunder roll.

I’ve felt sin’s breakers dashing, which almost conquered my soul.

I’ve heard the voice of my Savior, bidding me still to fight on.

He promised never to leave me, never to leave me alone!

Refrain

No, never alone, no never alone,

He promised never to leave me,

He’ll claim me for His own;

No, never alone, no never alone.

He promised never to leave me,

Never to leave me alone.

The world’s fierce winds are blowing, temptation sharp and keen.

I have a peace in knowing my Savior stands between—

He stands to shield me from danger when my friends are all gone.

He promised never to leave me, never to leave me alone!

Refrain

When in affliction’s valley I tread the road of care,

My Savior helps me carry the cross so heavy to bear;

Though all around me is darkness, earthly joys all flown;

My Savior whispers His promise, never to leave me alone!

Refrain

He died on Calvary’s mountain, for me they piercèd His side.

For me He opened that fountain, the crimson, cleansing tide.

For me He waiteth in glory, seated upon His throne.

He promised never to leave me, never to leave me alone!

Refrain

Ludie D. Pickett, 1897.

I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.

The Lord Jesus Christ, in Matthew 28:20