"Good-Bye – God Be With You"

Few realize that the expression "good-bye" really means, God be with you! The expression comes down to us from the simpler customs of the past, still largely preserved in Palestine. There the common salutation as the people pass each other is still much after the manner of Bible times. For instance, one will say, "The Lord bless thee and keep thee!" and the other will reply, "The Lord cause his face to shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee." - Numbers 6:24-26

True Christians might learn a lesson from this. Our Christian welfare should be the topic rather than merely our temporal welfare. Thus would our hearts be lifted from present vexations and burdens, and pointed to the glorious things which are ours by faith.

When we as Christians sing, "God be with you till we meet again," we are recognizing that our times are in God's hands, that we are his children, that he has given to us "exceeding great and precious promises," and has assured us that "all things shall work together for our good," because we love him and have been called according to his purpose. Reflection upon these things and interchange amongst the brethren respecting them will assist us greatly in making our "calling and election sure."

Everything which helps to draw us nearer the heavenly Lord draws us closer to all who are his, increasing the bonds of Christian fellowship, making all God's people stronger in their conflict with sin and Satan arid merciful in their dealings with the weaknesses of others.

This beautiful hymn seems especially appropriate when we are about to part from the brethren and realize that we know not what awaits us, or whether we shall ever see each other again. The hymn comes as a benediction to the soul, committing those who go and those who stay to divine care and supervision. Let us continue to sing it with the spirit and with the understanding!

Let us permit the same principle to enter into the daily affairs of life. Let us remember that not merely the great changes in life are under divine supervision, but also, as the master has expressed it, "The very hairs of your head are all numbered." This signifies the extreme interest of the Heavenly Father in all who become sons of God. To have this constantly before our minds is a source of strength and of courage. -Matthew 10:29-31

Alas! how many Christians neglect their privileges and meet the difficulties of life single-handed, fighting their own battles, directing their own way, not submitting themselves fully and heartily to the divine will, not watching the leadings of divine providence! - Proverbs 3:5, 6